The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust on Monday accepted the resignation of its General Secretary, Champat Rai, after an intense meeting in which several trustees initially urged him to continue in office. The decision was ultimately taken after senior advocate and trust member K. Parasaran clarified that the Trust's bylaws require a resignation to be accepted once it has been submitted.
According to people familiar with the meeting, trustees unanimously expressed their desire for Rai to remain in his position, acknowledging his long association with the Ram Temple movement and his contribution to the construction of the temple. However, Parasaran, who participated in the meeting virtually and was instrumental in drafting the Trust's constitution, explained that the rules leave no room to reject a voluntary resignation.
Following the clarification, the Trust formally accepted Rai's resignation. Officials said that under the Trust's constitution, a person who resigns from an office-bearer's post can only return through a fresh appointment process. The Trust also accepted the resignation of trustee Anil Mishra during the same meeting. Both resignations come amid the ongoing investigation into the alleged theft and embezzlement of donations received at the Ram Temple.
Speaking after the meeting, Trust Treasurer Govind Dev Giri said Rai had voluntarily stepped down, feeling it would be inappropriate to continue as General Secretary until those responsible for the alleged theft are identified and punished. He also praised Rai's years of service, stating that the resignation was made out of a sense of moral responsibility rather than any established wrongdoing. As part of the administrative changes, the Trust appointed retired Indian Forest Service officer and senior RSS functionary Krishna Mohan as the interim General Secretary. It also announced plans to create the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to strengthen the temple's administrative structure. A three-member committee will recommend suitable candidates for the new position.
During the meeting, Trust members were also briefed on the progress of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the alleged donation theft. Trustees reportedly called for strict action against those arrested in the case and emphasized the need to safeguard the faith of millions of devotees. The Trust is expected to meet again later this month to discuss the appointment of new trustees and review additional administrative matters. The developments mark one of the most significant organizational changes within the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust since its formation in 2020, as it seeks to reinforce transparency and public confidence while the investigation continues.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.
In a significant step toward addressing urban air pollution, scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) have developed SALT (Smart Algal Liquid Tree), India's first mobile air-purification system powered by microalgae. The innovation is designed to improve air quality in densely populated cities where the lack of open space makes planting conventional trees a challenge. The portable system has already been installed at the CSIR-CIMFR campus in Dhanbad and at Northern Coalfields Limited in Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh, demonstrating its potential for use in both urban and industrial settings.
Unlike traditional trees, SALT is an enclosed unit filled with water and microscopic algae known as microalgae. These tiny organisms naturally perform photosynthesis, using sunlight to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen. Scientists estimate that microalgae are responsible for producing nearly half of the Earth's oxygen, making them highly effective at capturing carbon dioxide.
SALT brings this natural process into a compact, self-contained system. Air containing carbon dioxide passes through the unit, where the algae absorb the gas during photosynthesis and release oxygen back into the environment. Besides reducing carbon dioxide levels, the interaction between polluted air and the algae-filled liquid may also help capture or biologically process certain airborne pollutants, contributing to cleaner surrounding air.
One of SALT's key advantages is its mobility. While earlier liquid-tree concepts were largely fixed installations, the Indian-developed system can be transported and deployed wherever air pollution is a concern. This flexibility allows it to be used in multiple locations depending on changing environmental conditions or local requirements.
The technology has also been designed to function beyond daylight hours. It can operate using artificial lighting when sunlight is unavailable and is compatible with both conventional electricity and solar power, allowing continuous operation with minimal interruption. According to the researchers leading the project, the primary objective of SALT is to provide an alternative air-cleaning solution for locations where conventional tree plantation is not feasible due to limited land availability. Many urban areas struggle with poor air quality but have little room for large-scale greenery, making compact technologies like SALT particularly relevant.
Scientists emphasize that SALT is not intended to replace natural trees. Conventional trees provide a wide range of environmental benefits beyond oxygen production, including cooling cities, supporting biodiversity, reducing heat, conserving water, and creating healthier ecosystems. Instead, the liquid tree is meant to complement traditional green spaces by offering carbon-absorbing capabilities in areas where planting trees is practically impossible.
Another advantage of the system is its relatively simple maintenance. Since it does not require soil and is enclosed, it is less vulnerable to pests, harsh weather conditions, and other challenges that often affect urban plantations. Researchers believe SALT could find applications in several high-footfall locations, including transport hubs, industrial facilities, educational campuses, shopping centres, parks, and other crowded public spaces where pollution levels are often elevated. The CSIR-CIMFR team is also exploring the possibility of commercial production, with the long-term goal of making the technology affordable enough for residential neighborhoods and cities facing severe air pollution.
As India continues to search for innovative solutions to improve urban air quality, SALT represents a promising blend of biotechnology and environmental engineering. While it cannot replace the ecological value of forests and urban tree cover, the mobile liquid tree offers a practical option for reducing pollution in places where conventional greenery simply cannot grow.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Liquid Tree.
The government's Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) 5.0 has witnessed a strong response since its rollout, with the total value of guaranteed credit crossing ₹1.55 lakh crore. According to the Ministry of Finance, more than 4.11 lakh guarantees have been issued under the scheme, reflecting its rapid adoption across the country's lending ecosystem.
Launched after receiving Union Cabinet approval on May 5, 2026, ECLGS 5.0 was introduced as a temporary relief measure to help businesses cope with liquidity pressures arising from the ongoing geopolitical situation in West Asia. The initiative is intended to ensure that companies continue to have access to credit despite global economic uncertainties that could disrupt business operations.
The scheme has been particularly beneficial for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which account for 98% of the total guarantees issued by number. The Finance Ministry also noted that MSMEs have received 82% of the total sanctioned credit value, underscoring the government's focus on supporting smaller businesses that often face greater challenges in securing financing.
To encourage banks and financial institutions to lend more confidently, the scheme offers 100% government guarantee coverage on additional loans provided to eligible MSMEs, while loans extended to other categories of businesses are backed by a 90% guarantee. This risk-sharing mechanism is expected to improve credit flow and help businesses manage short-term cash-flow disruptions without placing additional pressure on lenders. According to the Ministry of Finance, 4,11,497 guarantees have been issued under ECLGS 5.0 so far, with the guaranteed amount reaching ₹1,55,229 crore, highlighting the programme's swift implementation and widespread acceptance among lending institutions.
To maximize the scheme's reach, the Department of Financial Services (DFS) has launched a nationwide awareness campaign. The first phase, held between May 20 and June 6, 2026, covered nine locations through State Level Bankers' Committees (SLBCs). The campaign brought together the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC), the PSB Alliance, banks, and local industry associations to educate businesses about the scheme and streamline its implementation.
The second phase of the outreach programme is currently underway across ten additional locations, with several regional campaigns already completed. These efforts are aimed at ensuring eligible businesses understand the scheme's benefits while preparing Member Lending Institutions (MLIs) to efficiently process an increasing number of credit applications. The government expects ECLGS 5.0 to continue strengthening liquidity support for businesses, particularly MSMEs, enabling them to sustain operations, meet working capital requirements, and navigate financial challenges arising from external economic developments.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
Oceanside, California: A wildfire broke out near Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California, sending a massive plume of smoke into the sky that was visible across several parts of San Diego County. The blaze, which started in the military base area, triggered emergency responses as firefighters worked to contain the spreading flames.
The wildfire, identified as the Pipeline Fire, erupted near the northern section of Camp Pendleton, where dry vegetation and open terrain created challenging conditions for firefighting crews. The location of the fire raised concerns because the area is close to military facilities and communities in North San Diego County. Residents from Oceanside and nearby areas reported seeing thick smoke rising above the region, with the plume becoming visible from several miles away. Images and videos shared by locals showed a large column of smoke stretching across the sky as firefighters responded to the incident.
According to officials, the fire started near the area of Stuart Mesa Road and Hammond Drive inside Camp Pendleton. Fire crews from the base and supporting agencies moved quickly to slow the spread of the flames and protect nearby areas. The exact cause of the wildfire was not immediately known and remained under investigation.
The fire grew rapidly due to dry brush, warm temperatures, and conditions that are often associated with wildfire risks in Southern California. Authorities continued monitoring wind patterns and fire behavior as crews worked to establish containment lines around the affected area. Smoke from the wildfire spread across parts of San Diego County, prompting officials to advise residents to remain cautious about air quality. People with respiratory conditions, children, and elderly residents were advised to reduce exposure to outdoor air if smoke levels increased in their areas.
Camp Pendleton officials also issued evacuation warnings and orders for some areas of the base as a precaution. Emergency teams remained on standby while firefighting operations continued. Wildfires are a frequent challenge in Southern California, where dry landscapes, seasonal winds, and high temperatures can allow fires to spread quickly. Camp Pendleton, which covers a large area of undeveloped land, has experienced several vegetation fires in the past due to these conditions.
Authorities urged residents to follow official updates and avoid spreading unconfirmed information as firefighters continued their efforts to bring the Oceanside wildfire under control. The incident serves as another reminder of the growing wildfire threat across California, where early detection, emergency preparedness, and coordinated firefighting efforts play a crucial role in protecting communities.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.
The Indian Army has launched a ₹75,000 crore five-year programme to restore and modernise its fleet of tanks and armoured vehicles, providing long-term business opportunities for India's defence industry. The initiative aims to enhance combat readiness while giving defence manufacturers, including public sector firms, MSMEs, and start-ups, greater confidence to invest in production capacity and indigenous technologies. The programme includes the restoration of 790 T-72 tanks, 200 T-90 tanks, 500 BMP Infantry Combat Vehicles, and 230 Armoured Recovery Vehicles. The upgraded platforms will receive new mechanical, electronic, and engineering systems, with drones being integrated into tanks for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat support based on lessons from recent global conflicts. The Army expects the initiative to extend the operational life of its armoured fleet, reduce dependence on imported spares, and strengthen India's defence manufacturing ecosystem in line with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Line.
Following his recognition as Singapore's Sportsman of the Year at the Singapore Sports Awards, world champion pool player Aloysius Yapp joined Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman to reflect on the remarkable season that led to the country's highest individual sporting honour. During the conversation, Yapp shared insights into the achievements, challenges, and milestones that shaped his career-defining year.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Claudia Sheinbaum’s journey from activist to Mexico’s president has drawn global attention. Once known for championing progressive causes, she now faces the challenge of governing a complex nation. As her presidency unfolds, observers continue to debate whether her decisions and policies remain consistent with the ideals and values that first defined her career.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
The political landscape in 2026 has taken several unexpected turns. The Labor government moved ahead with reforms to negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount despite earlier indications that such changes were not on the agenda. Meanwhile, the Liberal Party underwent another leadership change, while One Nation has gained noticeable momentum, with recent opinion polls showing increased voter support. In this discussion, political editor Tom McIlroy is joined by Michelle Grattan, chief political correspondent at *The Conversation*, and Melissa Clarke, political correspondent for ABC Radio National. Together, they assess the major political developments of the year so far, evaluate how the key parties have performed, and highlight the issues and political battles likely to shape the remainder of 2026.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
On the 2 July episode of Open For Business, Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman sit down with Lorraine Tan, Morningstar's Director of Equity Research for Asia, for an in-depth analysis of the markets.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
