
Committee on air safety flags non-implementation of past regulatory recommendations
According to sources, the members also intended to seek updates on the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's (AAIB) preliminary findings and whether they would be made public soon.The Standing Committee, chaired by JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha, convened with the stated agenda of "an overall review of civil aviation sector safety", but the June 12 Air India crash in Ahmedabad took centre stage during discussions.The crash involved flight AI 171, which slammed into the BJ Medical College hostel building just seconds after take-off, killing 260 people - 241 passengers and crew onboard, and 19 on the ground.While Wednesday's meeting focused on oversight and systemic issues, air safety had already become a contentious issue during the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting on Tuesday. Though originally intended to address airport levy charges, the PAC session turned into a charged discussion on aviation safety post-AI 171.Sources said PAC members pressed aviation authorities about oversight gaps, urged an audit by BCAS, and raised questions over increasing safety incidents in May and June. Lawmakers also flagged a surge in airfares following the Pahalgam terror attack as another sign of regulatory failure.Air India CEO Wilson Campbell, along with top MoCA, DGCA, AERA, AAI and BCAS officials, attended the PAC meeting and defended the Boeing 787 Dreamliner involved in the crash. Air India stated the aircraft was among the safest in the world, with over 1,000 Dreamliners currently in operation globally.Speaking after the PAC meeting, former Civil Aviation Minister and PAC member Praful Patel highlighted a shortage of skilled senior personnel at DGCA and recommended that retired officials be brought back on short tenures to plug the gap."Safety is paramount. Anyone who flies wants to be safe and assured that they will reach their destination. Many events took place in the wake of the Air India crash. Obviously, when a crash happens, everything is taken with sensitivity," Patel said.He added, "Indian aviation is safe, and we don't need to panic. All airlines, including Air India, follow all safety protocols. DGCA is well equipped and does a very good job. However, DGCA needs to have more people. It is facing a shortage of staff at the top level, of skilled people. Retired officials can be brought back to deal with this understaffing and ensure safety standards are fully compliant at the earliest. Maybe an audit of the entire sector or all the aircraft should be done at the earliest so that passenger confidence is restored."- EndsMust Watch
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Mint
43 minutes ago
- Mint
Maldives' Muizzu calls India ‘closest, most-trusted ally', PM Modi stresses ‘friendship first': Top points
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on two-day visit to the Maldives, on Monday assured India's continued support to the island nation in strengthening its defence capabilities. PM Modi and the Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu also addressed a joint press meet where PM Modi the growing security cooperation between the two nations reflects the depth of their trust. Among other things, PM Modi also announced major financial commitment to the island nation saying India will provide a line of credit of $565 million to the Maldives. The prime minister also handed over 72 vehicles and equipment for use by the Maldives National Defence Force. 'India-Maldives relations are centuries-old. We are neighbours, partners and true friends who stand together in times of need. Like I said earlier too, Maldives holds a special place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' is not just diplomacy but a relation of deep affinity.' 'We are both partners of the Global South. Whether it is Infrastructure or Capacity Building, India has been a true partner and companion at every turn of Maldives' development journey. Now we should move forward on trade, security, and sustainable development.' 'It is an honor for me to attend as the Guest of Honour on the 60th Independence Day of the Maldives. I express my gratitude to the President for this invitation. And on behalf of all Indians, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of the Maldives.' 'Mutual cooperation in the field of defense and security is a testament to mutual trust. The Defense Ministry building, which is being inaugurated today, is a concrete structure of trust. It is a symbol of our strong partnership.' 'To give a new flight to our development partnership, we have decided to provide a 'line of credit' of 565 million dollars, which is approximately five thousand crore rupees, for the Maldives. This will be used for projects related to the development of infrastructure here, in line with the priorities of the people of the Maldives.' 'Built with India's cooperation, four thousand social housing units will now become a new beginning for many families in the Maldives. They will be new homes. The Greater Male Connectivity Project, Addu road development project, and the redeveloped Hanimaadhoo International Airport will transform this entire region into a significant transit and economic hub.' 'India is the closest neighbor of the Maldives. The Maldives holds an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' Policy and MAHASAGAR vision.' 'India is also proud to be the most trusted friend of the Maldives. Be it a disaster or a pandemic, India has always stood by as the 'First Responder'. Whether it is about providing essential commodities or managing the economy post-Covid, India has always worked together.' 'On behalf of all Indians, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the President and the people of Maldives on the historic 60th anniversary of independence.' 'On this historic occasion, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the President for inviting me as the Guest of Honour.'


India Today
3 hours ago
- India Today
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement: A gamechanger for bilateral prosperity
In a world grappling with economic uncertainties, supply chain disruptions, and shifting geopolitical alignments, the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), finalised on May 6 and executed on July 24, emerges as a beacon of strategic landmark deal between the world's fourth and sixth-largest economies is more than a trade pact - it's a transformative step toward mutual prosperity, resilience, and global influence. Against a volatile global backdrop, the FTA not only strengthens the economic and strategic partnership between India and the United Kingdom but also sets a precedent for future trade agreements, including the much-anticipated India-US trade leveraging the pragmatic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart, this agreement promises to reshape trade dynamics, create jobs, and foster innovation. Here's why the India-UK FTA is a gamechanger for both Global Backdrop: Why the FTA Matters NowThe global economy in 2025 is navigating turbulent waters. Trade wars, particularly the looming challenge of US tariffs under a protectionist administration, have disrupted global supply chains. The UK, post-Brexit, faces the challenge of replacing lost EU market access, while India, having opted out of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in 2019, seeks to diversify its trade partnerships beyond traditional tensions, including strained US-China relations and regional conflicts, underscore the need for resilient trade networks. Against this backdrop, the India-UK FTA is a strategic move to insulate both economies from global volatility, deepen bilateral ties, and position them as key players in a multipolar the UK, the FTA is its most significant post-Brexit trade deal, unlocking access to India's rapidly growing market of 1.4 billion consumers and a projected $5 trillion economy by 2028. For India, it's a step toward its 'Viksit Bharat' vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, diversifying trade partners and reducing reliance on any single agreement aligns with the 2030 roadmap for India-UK strategic cooperation, fostering collaboration in trade, technology, energy, and security. In a world where economic security is paramount, this FTA is a bold statement of intent to build a robust, future-ready Gains: A Win-Win for India and the UKThe India-UK FTA is poised to deliver substantial economic benefits, doubling bilateral trade from $60 billion (42.6 billion) in 2024 to $120 billion by 2030, with an annual trade boost of 25.5 billion ($34 billion) by 2040. This ambitious target is underpinned by sweeping tariff reductions, enhanced market access, and innovative provisions that cater to modern trade both nations, the FTA eliminates or reduces tariffs on a vast majority of goods, making exports more competitive. The UK will remove tariffs on 99% of Indian tariff lines, covering nearly 100% of India's trade value, while India will reduce tariffs on 90% of UK tariff lines, with 85% becoming fully tariff-free within a translates to lower prices for consumers - UK shoppers will enjoy cheaper Indian apparel, footwear, and marine products like frozen prawns, while Indian consumers will access affordable UK goods like whisky, cosmetics, medical devices, and salmon. The agreement also fosters job creation in labour-intensive and high-tech sectors. In India, industries like textiles, leather, and engineering goods will see significant employment growth, while the UK will benefit in manufacturing, clean energy, and FTA's pioneering chapters on anti-corruption, labour rights, gender equality, and environmental standards mark a progressive approach, aligning trade with global ethical norms—a first for India in any FTA. Professional mobility is another cornerstone of the deal. The agreement facilitates easier movement for professionals, such as Indian IT workers, yoga instructors, and chefs, and UK financial service providers and engineers.A Double Contributions Convention (DCC) exempts workers temporarily posted in either country from dual social security contributions for up to three years, saving employers and employees significant costs—approximately Rs 40 billion ($463 million) annually for India provision not only boosts remittances but also strengthens people-to-people ties. Innovation and investment are further catalysts. The FTA promotes digital trade by recognising electronic contracts and protecting businesses from forced source code transfers, fostering collaboration in IT, financial services, and clean UK, already India's sixth-largest foreign investor with $36 billion committed, is expected to ramp up investments in infrastructure, electric mobility, and renewables. A parallel Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) under negotiation will further enhance investor confidence by addressing dispute resolution and the FTA shields both nations from global trade disruptions. For the UK, it compensates for lost EU market access, while for India, it reduces dependence on specific trade blocs, offering a buffer against US tariffs and Chinese economic influence. This deal is a testament to the power of bilateral cooperation in an era of global Gains: A Catalyst for Economic AmbitionFor India, the FTA is a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and global integration. The elimination of UK tariffs on 99% of Indian exports—previously facing duties of 4% to 16%—unlocks immense potential for key sectors. Textiles and apparel, a cornerstone of India's labour-intensive economy, are set to see exports grow by $5 billion, benefiting companies like Welspun India, Arvind Ltd., and giants like Bata India and Relaxo will gain from duty-free access, as will marine products (for example: frozen prawns), leather goods, gems and jewellery, engineering goods, and auto exports like grapes and mangoes will also become more competitive, boosting rural incomes. The automotive sector, particularly electric vehicles (EVs), is a standout beneficiary. Indian manufacturers like Tata Motors and Mahindra Electric will gain preferential access to the UK market under a quota system, with tariffs on auto components aligns with India's push for green mobility and strengthens its position in the global EV market. The services sector, a powerhouse of India's economy, stands to gain significantly. The FTA's provisions for professional mobility open doors for Indian IT professionals, healthcare workers, and creative professionals like yoga instructors and DCC's social security exemption will save Indian employers and workers substantial costs, boosting remittances, which reached $130 billion in 2024, with the UK as a key source. These gains strengthen India's service exports, a critical driver of its has also safeguarded its sensitive sectors, exempting agricultural products like dairy, apples, and poultry, as well as industrial goods like diamonds and cell phones from tariff cuts. This pragmatic approach protects rural livelihoods and domestic industries while maximising export FTA's focus on investment will attract UK capital to India's infrastructure, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors, supporting the country's $5 trillion economy goal by 2028. Strategically, the FTA diversifies India's trade portfolio, reducing reliance on any single market and enhancing economic also positions India as a formidable player in global trade, setting a precedent for future FTAs with the EU and the US. By aligning with a major Western economy, India strengthens its geopolitical leverage in a multipolar Leadership: Modi's Vision Meets UK ResolveThe finalisation of the India-UK FTA after 14 rounds of negotiations since January 2022 is a testament to the pragmatic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his UK counterpart. Modi's government has prioritized economic diplomacy to drive India's global integration, balancing domestic interests with international safeguarding sensitive sectors like agriculture and securing concessions on professional mobility—a long-standing Indian demand—Modi's team has crafted a deal that aligns with the 'Make in India' and 'Viksit Bharat' visions. The UK, under its new Labour government, has shown equal resolve in prioritising this deal to bolster its post-Brexit trade mutual commitment to overcoming sticking points, such as the UK's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and India's concerns over legal services, reflects a shared understanding of the deal's strategic ongoing negotiation of a BIT further underscores both leaders' forward-thinking approach to deepening economic ties. Modi's pragmatic diplomacy has also ensured that the FTA serves as a blueprint for future agreements. By securing favorable terms with the UK, India has demonstrated its ability to negotiate complex trade deals that balance export growth with domestic Effects: Paving the Way for an India-US Trade DealThe India-UK FTA's success has far-reaching implications for India's trade ambitions, particularly with the United States. As the world's largest economy, the US is a critical partner for India, with bilateral trade reaching $120 billion in negotiations for a comprehensive India-US trade deal have been slowed by issues like market access, intellectual property rights, and US tariff policies. The India-UK FTA serves as a model for navigating these securing concessions on services, professional mobility, and investment while protecting sensitive sectors, India has demonstrated its negotiating prowess. The FTA's progressive chapters on labour, gender, and environmental standards align with US priorities, potentially easing concerns in Washington about India's trade DCC's social security exemption could also serve as a template for addressing similar issues in US negotiations, where Indian IT professionals and temporary workers face significant visa and tax the FTA strengthens India's position as a reliable trade partner, countering US concerns about supply-chain dependencies on China. By showcasing its ability to deliver a high-impact trade deal with the UK, India bolsters its case for deeper economic engagement with the challenges like the US's protectionist stance and India's reluctance to liberalise certain sectors remain, the India-UK FTA provides momentum and a framework for progress.A Partnership for the FutureThe India-UK Free Trade Agreement is a gamechanger that transcends traditional trade pacts. It is a strategic alliance that harnesses the economic strengths of two dynamic nations, fostering growth, innovation, and resilience in an uncertain India, the FTA unlocks vast export opportunities, creates jobs, and attracts investment, propelling it toward its $5 trillion economy goal. For the UK, it compensates for Brexit-related challenges, opening a high-growth market and reinforcing its global trade the pragmatic leadership of Narendra Modi and the UK's resolve, this deal reflects a shared vision for prosperity and partnership. Its success not only strengthens India-UK ties but also paves the way for India's ambitions on the global stage, particularly in negotiations with the US. As both nations navigate the complexities of global trade, the India-UK FTA stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, setting the stage for a brighter, more connected economic future.(Tuhin A Sinha is a national spokesperson of the BJP, and an author)- Ends(Views expressed in this opinion piece are those of the author)Tune InMust Watch


India.com
5 hours ago
- India.com
Trade Pact, Rs 5,000 Cr Credit Line, Defence Ties And More: PM Modi, Maldivian President Muizzu Elevate Bilateral Ties
On his State Visit to Maldives, PM Narendra Modi held wide ranging talks with President Mohamed Muizzu and the two leaders discussed an array of bilateral issues, boosting the ties between the two nations. The Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that the two leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of India-Maldives relations & reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the ties. The MEA said that discussions were held for cooperation in the fields of development partnership, capacity building, health, infrastructure, digital economy, aquaculture, climate change and renewable energy. "The two leaders called for closer collaboration to enhance peace, progress and prosperity of the Indian Ocean region," said the MEA. Notably, PM Modi is the first foreign Head of State or Government to be invited by Maldives on a state visit during President Muizzu 's term. Issuing a joint statement with Muizzu, PM Modi said that to give a new flight to development partnership, India has decided to provide a line of credit of 565 million dollars, which is approximately five thousand crore rupees, for the Maldives. "This will be used for projects related to the development of infrastructure here, in line with the priorities of the people of the Maldives," said PM Modi. The leaders also took stock of the progress in the implementation of the India-Maldives Joint Vision for a 'Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership' adopted in 2024. PM Narendra Modi said, "Last year in October, during the President's visit to India, we shared a vision on extensive economic and maritime partnership. Now, this is becoming a reality. It is a result of that, that our relations are touching new heights. Thanking India for the continuous support, President Muizzu said, "I am also pleased to announce the initiation of negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and Maldives. This landmark initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening our economic partnership." PM Modi also said that India is the closest neighbor of the Maldives. "The Maldives holds an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' Policy and MAHASAGAR is also proud to be the most trusted friend of the Maldives. Be it a disaster or a pandemic, India has always stood by as the 'First Responder'. Whether it is about providing essential commodities or managing the economy post-Covid, India has always worked together," he said. The Prime Minister also hailed the strenghtening of the defence ties. "Mutual cooperation in the field of defence and security is a testament to mutual trust. The Defence Ministry building, which is being inaugurated today, is a concrete structure of trust. It is a symbol of our strong partnership."