Evening news wrap: Rajnath reveals why India didn't 'immediately react' to US tariffs; Pak bombs own village; and more

Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said India would not react immediately to US tariffs, which include a 25 per cent penalty on exports linked to Russian oil, and expressed confidence that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir will return to India without aggressive action. In Pakistan, at least 30 people were killed in Tirah Valley after a blast involving bomb-making materials allegedly linked to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

On the economic and social front, GST 2.0 came into effect, reducing tax rates on essentials, packaged foods, medicines, insurance, consumer durables, farm equipment, and services, while luxury and sin goods are taxed at 40 per cent. In politics, AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal criticised PM Modi for promoting Swadeshi while using foreign products and questioned the presence of American companies in India. In sports, Virender Sehwag praised Abhishek Sharma’s aggressive 74 off 39 balls, which helped India defeat Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025.


India won’t react to US tariffs immediately, says Rajnath Singh
The tariff includes a 25 per cent penalty on Indian exports linked to Russian oil. Speaking to the Indian community in Morocco, Singh also expressed confidence that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will return to India without aggressive action, as locals are demanding freedom from current control. “PoK will be ours on its own. That day will come,” he said, reiterating comments made five years ago. Read full story

At least 30 killed in Tirah Valley blast, civilians among victims

Officials accused militants of using civilians as human shields. Local sources, however, claimed Pakistani fighter jets carried out airstrikes that killed civilians. The blast follows a recent TTP attack that killed 12 soldiers. Human rights groups and PTI criticised the government, calling for an impartial investigation into civilian deaths and accountability for those responsible. Read full story

GST 2.0 kicks in: Lower rates, tax relief for essentials, farmers, and households

The new structure has two main slabs, 5 per cent and 18 per cent, with luxury and sin goods taxed at 40per cent. Essentials, packaged foods, medicines, insurance, consumer durables, farm equipment, and services like gyms and hotels now face lower rates, making them more affordable. FMCG companies have already reduced prices on juices, chocolates, dairy, and personal care items.
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Kejriwal slams PM Modi over Swadeshi call, questions use of foreign goods

On X, Kejriwal asked if Modi would give up his foreign airplane, watches, glasses, phones, and cars, and questioned the continued operation of American companies in India. AAP MP Sanjay Singh added that India still imports heavily from the US and China, calling Modi’s call for Swadeshi “hypocritical.” Read full story

Sehwag hails Abhishek Sharma’s fearless 74 as India beat Pakistan

Chasing 172, Sharma attacked from the first ball, exploiting field placements and punishing loose deliveries. “Abhishek Sharma is ready from the first ball, he would hit if it's in his area,” Sehwag said. He lauded Sharma’s consistency in maintaining a strike rate near 200 across multiple matches, saying opposition bowlers struggle to find the right line and length. Read full story

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