R2R NEWSPAPER NOTES

R2R SSB BATCHES START EVERY 1ST & 15TH of month. Referred articles were published in The Hindu.

1: BOEING CRASH

• Background:
  • The article discusses a series of aviation accidents in India, highlighting concerns about safety standards and accountability within the aviation sector.
  • The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) are responsible for ensuring aviation safety.
  • There have been previous instances of air crashes and incidents in India, leading to questions about regulatory oversight.
• The Situation Now:
  • The recent Air India flight AI171 incident in Gujarat on June 13, 2025, involving a landing that led to damage, has raised fresh concerns.
  • This follows other incidents, including the Alliance Air Boeing 737 crash (VT-EAI) in Patna on July 17, 2000, and the Air India Express crash (VT-AXB) in Mangaluru on May 22, 2010.
  • Investigations into these accidents often reveal systemic failures, including issues with pilot error, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of adherence to safety protocols.
  • The article points out that while the DGCA often issues directives, implementation and enforcement remain weak.
  • There is a perceived lack of accountability, with reports of pilots being blamed while underlying systemic issues are ignored.
  • The CCTV footage from Mumbai Airport shows instances of ground staff engaging in reckless behavior, and the monsoon season further exacerbates risks due to increased bird activity and waterlogging.
• Way Forward:
  • A thorough and transparent investigation into all aviation incidents is crucial to identify root causes and implement corrective measures.
  • Strengthening regulatory oversight and ensuring strict adherence to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
  • Enhancing training for pilots, ground staff, and air traffic controllers.
  • Investing in modern infrastructure and technology, including upgraded runway systems and bird control measures.
  • Promoting a culture of accountability where responsibility is assigned at all levels, from individual personnel to regulatory bodies.
  • Implementing real-time monitoring and data analysis to identify potential risks before accidents occur.
  • The author suggests that lessons from past incidents must be learned to prevent future tragedies, emphasizing the importance of policy over punishment.

• Background:
  • The article discusses the long-standing animosity between Iran and Israel, which has intensified in recent years, particularly concerning Iran's nuclear program and its support for regional proxy groups.
  • Historically, the relationship between the two has deep roots, but modern geopolitical dynamics have fueled conflict.
  • The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or the Iran nuclear deal, aimed to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief, but its future remains uncertain.
• The Situation Now:
  • Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant have made strong statements indicating a firm stance against Iran.
  • Iran has made advancements in its nuclear program and continues to develop ballistic missiles, posing a threat to regional stability.
  • Both sides have engaged in overt and covert operations, including cyber-attacks and intelligence gathering.
  • Iran's support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah further escalates tensions in the region.
  • The U.S. has attempted to mediate and re-engage with Iran on the nuclear deal, but progress has been limited.
  • The article highlights the strategic implications of Iran's oil production and its efforts to circumvent sanctions.
  • The conflict has broader implications for global energy markets and regional stability.
• Way Forward:
  • International efforts are needed to prevent a full-scale military conflict between Iran and Israel.
  • Diplomacy remains crucial for resolving the nuclear issue and de-escalating regional tensions.
  • The JCPOA or a similar agreement should be pursued to ensure Iran's nuclear program remains peaceful.
  • Addressing Iran's support for proxy groups and its ballistic missile program is essential for regional security.
  • International bodies need to ensure compliance with nuclear non-proliferation treaties.
  • The article suggests that while military options are always present, a broader approach including diplomatic and economic measures is preferred to achieve a lasting resolution.

NEWS IN SHORTS

1. Black Box Recovered from Roof of Hostel; Modi Visits Crash Site

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) recovered the black box from the wreckage of the Air India flight at Ahmedabad. The crash killed at least 241 people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the crash site, expressing sorrow for the victims. He held a meeting with the AAIB and other officials. Authorities are working to identify the remains of the 265 bodies recovered so far through DNA matching. A thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident.

2. Israel Strikes Iran Nuclear Sites, Military Leaders; Tehran Retaliates with Missiles

Israel launched a retaliatory attack on Iranian nuclear and military sites, deploying warplanes and drones. Iran quickly retaliated with missiles. Casualties were reported as Iran's Supreme Leader warned of "severe punishment." Israel's military conducted over 200 airstrikes. This escalation in the Middle East raises concerns about regional stability and global oil supply, with India potentially impacted. Efforts for peace are being urged amidst the rising tensions.

3. Rogue Nation: Israel has Pushed West Asia into a Security Abyss

This article discusses Israel's strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and the resulting escalation of tensions in West Asia. It highlights concerns about Iran's nuclear program and the international community's efforts to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons. The piece criticizes the U.S. for its perceived role in enabling Israeli aggression and emphasizes the widespread destruction and loss of life in Gaza. It argues that a diplomatic solution and regional stability are urgently needed.

4. Centre Sanctions Over 300 FRA Cells to 'Facilitate' Implementation of Forest Rights Act Across 18 States, UTs

The Indian government has sanctioned 324 Forest Rights Act (FRA) cells across 18 states and Union Territories to facilitate the implementation of the law. This initiative, part of the DAAJ GUA program, aims to streamline the process of granting forest rights to Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. The cells will function at various administrative levels, including Gram Sabha, Divisional Level Committees, and State Government departments, to ensure effective implementation and address grievances.

5. Israel-Iran Conflict May Impact Oil Supply to India, Spike Export Costs

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran is expected to significantly impact India's oil supply and increase export costs. With India importing about 80% of its oil requirement, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route, could lead to higher crude oil prices and increased freight charges. Experts warn of a potential spike in inflation and its broad impact on India's economy, emphasizing the need for contingency plans to mitigate these effects.

6. Crash and Burn: India's Aviation Sector Needs to Address Safety Concerns The crash of Air India flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8, has highlighted critical safety concerns in India's aviation sector. Investigations are ongoing, with focus on potential design flaws, human factors, and maintenance issues. The incident underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive safety roadmap for India's rapidly expanding air travel.

7. Modi Talks to Israeli PM, Calls for Early Restoration of Peace Prime Minister Modi spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, advocating for the early restoration of peace and stability in the region. India also expressed deep concern about Israeli attacks targeting nuclear research stations in Iran, while also emphasizing India's efforts to evacuate citizens from conflict zones.

8. 16 Long-Haul Air India Flights Diverted as Iranian Airspace Shut Sixteen long-haul Air India flights were diverted due to the closure of Iranian airspace, causing delays and alternative routing for passengers. The diversions affected flights to and from destinations like London, New York, and Washington, leading to logistical challenges and extended travel times.

9. India Abstains From UNGA Resolution For Gaza Ceasefire India abstained from a UN General Assembly resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza for the third consecutive year. While India advocates for peace and a two-state solution, its abstention reflects a nuanced diplomatic stance amidst complex regional dynamics and concerns about the resolution's language.

10. Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Mission to ISS Postponed Once Again Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's Axiom Space mission to the ISS has been postponed again due to an ongoing leak investigation on the International Space Station and a necessary module replacement. This marks another delay for the mission, which involves significant scientific research.

11. India Must Condemn Israel Strike as Silence Will Be Seen as Complicity, Say Left Parties Left parties in India have urged the government to condemn Israeli air strikes on Iran, warning that silence would imply complicity. They argue that Israel's actions, including the recent attack on Natanz, contribute to regional instability and global insecurity, and call for a stronger stance against such aggression.

12. Ensure the Safety of Kashmiri Students in Iran, Says Omar Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called on the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety of Kashmiri students in Iran following recent attacks. He highlighted concerns about their well-being amid escalating regional tensions and urged the government to provide all necessary support.

13. Iran Says Israel Attack 'Declaration of War,' Vows 'Severe Punishment' Iran's Supreme Leader Sayed Ali Khamenei declared Israel's recent attack on its nuclear facilities as an "act of war" and vowed "severe punishment." This statement escalates tensions, with Iran accusing Israel of targeting its nuclear scientists and military officials, and asserting its right to retaliate.

14. European Leaders Call for De-escalation; Diplomacy as Iran Conflict Flares Up European leaders are urging de-escalation and diplomacy following Israel's strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, which have heightened regional tensions. They emphasize the need for continued engagement, compliance with the JCPOA, and a peaceful resolution to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.