Tensions have escalated between Iran and the US following an Iranian attack on a commercial oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, the US launched airstrikes. This conflict has disrupted global shipping through the strategic waterway, causing Brent crude prices to surge past $88 per barrel. Additionally, thousands of farmers in India are marching towards Delhi demanding the cancellation of FTA. Peace talks mediated by Pakistan have so far failed to yield positive results. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/iran-attacks-oil-tanker-strait-of-hormuz-us-retaliatory-airstrikes-oil-prices-12183142

The death toll in the Sikkim landslide and tunnel accident has risen to 8. Rescue operations are ongoing to save laborers trapped in an under-construction tunnel in Namchi district. Rescuers are facing challenges due to the suspected presence of methane gas inside the tunnel, which has affected the health of some personnel. NDRF, SDRF, and local police are coordinating the relief efforts. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/sikkim-namchi-tunnel-rescue-ops-live-updates-nhpc-teesta-stage-vi-project-casualties-workers-trapps-12183276

Malkangiri District Collector Pratimesh Arvind Rajeshirke launched a Silver Oak plantation program in Sisaput village, Khairput block. The initiative aims to enhance the livelihoods of tribal farmers and promote environmental protection across 180 hectares. During the visit, the Collector also inspected coffee and black pepper plantations and directed officials to expand the reforestation drive to other suitable areas in the district. https://odishatazanews.com/?p=208103

Gitanjali J. Angmo, wife of activist Sonam Wangchuk, is in the spotlight for her diverse achievements. An academician and CEO of HIAL, Ladakh, she holds an MBA from XIM Bhubaneswar and graduated from Fakir Mohan University, Odisha. Beyond academics, she is a karate black belt, Odissi dancer, and recipient of the 'Women Transforming India' national award. She actively supports her husband's movements and legal battles. https://www.dharitri.com/who-is-sonam-wangchuks-wife-gitanjali-j-angmo-she-has-a-black-belt-in-karate/

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 50% tariff on most Canadian goods, citing unfair trade practices regarding American vehicles, alcohol, and dairy products. Invoking Section 338 of the 1930 Tariff Act, the new measures will take effect in 30 days, covering items like cement and consumer goods while exempting energy and essential minerals. This move threatens to destabilize economic relations between the two allies. Canadian PM Mark Carney expressed concern, stating the move violates free trade agreements and increases costs for consumers. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/trump-50-percent-tariff-canadian-goods-1930-trade-law-trade-war-12183264

Drinking water crisis has worsened in Belbhata village of Lanjigarh block, Kalahandi district. Both the sole tube well and the government solar water tank are defunct. Villagers are forced to collect water from a pit under a bridge for drinking. Due to the rainy season, there is a risk of waterborne diseases. Despite complaints to local representatives, no permanent solution has been provided, leading villagers to urge the administration for urgent repairs. https://www.dharitri.com/hope-of-drinking-water-for-the-people-of-belbhata-village-achal-tube-well-solar-water-tank/

The Ram Mandir Trust in Ayodhya has decided to publish monthly audit reports on its official website to ensure transparency following a donation theft incident. Previously, audits were conducted annually and were only shared with trustees. Now, devotees worldwide can access information on income, expenditure, and donations. The website will also feature updates on administrative decisions and construction progress. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/ram-temple-trust-s-functioning-changed-after-offering-theft-monthly-audit-report-will-now-be-uploaded-12183366

Four Indian nationals were killed and another critically injured after three Russian cruise missiles targeted the commercial ship MV Golden Leo near Ukraine's Odesa port. The ship, flying a Guinea-Bissau flag and carrying grain, had 17 crew members from India and Syria. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on innocent crew members as 'deplorable' and confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Ukraine is providing support to the affected families and monitoring the situation. https://otvkhabar.in/international/missile-strike-on-commercial-vessel-in-ukraine-kills-four-indians-12183144

The ongoing conflict between the US and Iran has caused a blockage in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of a global oil crisis. Amidst this, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have threatened to block Saudi Arabian vessels in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated this is a response to the ongoing blockade of Yemen by Saudi Arabia. This potential disruption of key maritime routes is expected to further reduce global oil supply and increase fuel prices significantly. https://sambad.in/india-and-beyond/houthis-threaten-saudi-ships-red-sea-global-oil-crisis-middle-east-conflict-12183296

An OSRTC Jagannath Express bus carrying over 50 passengers overturned near Burukuna Chhak on NH 149 in Angul district. The accident occurred while the bus was traveling from Puri to Sundargarh. More than 25 passengers were injured, with 6 in critical condition. Emergency services including the fire department and 108 ambulance conducted rescue operations, shifting victims to hospitals in Angul, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar. https://otvkhabar.in/accident/osrtc-jagannath-express-meets-with-accident-over-50-passengers-on-board-12183148