India Roundup: Heatwaves, air traffic conflict, hockey
Cabinet formation under Modi
Amit Shah has taken charge as the Union home minister in Narendra Modi's 3.0 cabinet. This signifies a shift in leadership and potential changes in policies related to home affairs in India, Times of India reports.
Hockey Men's Junior World Cup
India has been chosen to host the 2025 International Hockey Federation (FIH) Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, with a total of 24 teams participating for the first time. The decision was praised by FIH President Tayyab Ikram and Hockey India, who are looking forward to showcasing the future talent of the sport. The tournament will take place in December 2025, and the last edition was won by Germany in 2023.
Air traffic conflict
Indian officials are investigating a serious runway conflict at Mumbai Airport between Air India and IndiGo A320neos. The incident, which occurred on June 8, saw the IndiGo aircraft landing as the Air India aircraft was taking off, with only a few hundred meters separating them. Flight Global reports that both airlines have reported following air traffic control instructions, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the conflict.
Heatwaves
India is currently facing its longest heatwave, with temperatures over 50C in some areas. At least 60 heat-related deaths have been reported, but the actual number is likely higher. Water shortages and heat-related illnesses are having a major impact. The monsoon is expected to bring some relief, but officials warn that heatwaves will continue to be a problem if precautions are not taken. The country's reliance on coal for power is contributing to the problem, the BBC reports.
Religious diversity in minority affairs ministry
The minority affairs ministry has elected for the first time in its history, a Buddhist Kiren Rijiju as its head. Before this, the ministry was led by Muslims even under BJP governments. However, the pattern broke when Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi resigned a day before his term as Rajya Sabha member ended in July 2022 and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani got additional charge of the ministry. According to the Times of India, Rijiju will be assisted by a Christian from Kerala, George Kurian.
