Indian Ocean

The airline extends the service thrice weekly (Wednesday, Friday and Sunday).

Scientists in Goa have identified the highly venomous box jellyfish, Morbakka virulenta, for the first time in Indian waters off Caranzalem beach. This discovery, confirmed through morphological and molecular analysis, expands the species' known range and highlights the need for continuous coastal monitoring due to the potent venom and increasing jellyfish stings.

Scientists in Goa have reported the first sighting of the highly venomous box jellyfish, Morbakka virulenta, in Indian waters. The discovery occurred off Caranzalem beach in September 2024. Five specimens were collected and confirmed using scientific methods. This finding highlights a potential risk to coastal populations. Researchers emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring of these waters to manage human safety.

During her appearance on Koffee with Karan, Preity Zinta playfully mentioned that in a sticky situation, she'd rely on Saif Ali Khan as her last lifeline. Reliving the traumatic 2004 tsunami incident in Phuket, she recalled Saif’s playful text that said, 'Hey, PZ, are you stuck underwater?' This funny moment emphasizes their strong friendship.

Dhanushkodi, a town ravaged by a 1964 cyclone, is slowly reviving with 200 families returning to its ruins. Despite improved connectivity, residents face challenges like no electricity or proper water supply. Environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles slow development, leaving the town suspended in time, awaiting a clear rebuilding plan.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto in Delhi, reinforcing the India-Italy strategic partnership. They exchanged a bilateral military cooperation plan for 2026-27 and explored defence industrial collaboration. Concurrently, the Indian Coast Guard discussed advanced shipbuilding projects and maritime information exchange with an Italian delegation, including Fincantieri representatives.

India has successfully test-fired a long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile off the Odisha coast, reaching a remarkable 1,500 km range. Developed by DRDO, this advanced weapon, capable of speeds up to Mach 10, significantly boosts India's naval defense capabilities. The test validated its precision and ability to engage critical targets, marking a major stride in indigenous defense innovation and self-reliance.

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi concluded a visit to Myanmar, reinforcing defence ties and navy-to-navy cooperation. Discussions focused on enhancing training exchanges and operational engagements, including the handover of Indian-assisted maritime security equipment. This collaboration underscores India's strategic importance of Myanmar under its 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

Navy Chief Admiral DK Tripathi is on a four-day visit to Myanmar to bolster defence ties. He will meet with top Myanmar defence officials to review maritime cooperation and explore new avenues for collaboration. The visit, concluding May 5, includes engagements with naval commands and a visit to the Fallen Heroes’ War Memorial, reinforcing the strong India-Myanmar defence relationship.

Defence veterans, including former IAF chief R K S Bhadauria, strongly back the Greater Nicobar project, deeming it vital for India's national security and military presence. They argue it enhances surveillance of the Malacca Strait, crucial for checking China's growing influence in the indian ocean. The project is seen as a strategic and economic win.

Scientists at IISER Pune have pinpointed a significant portion of the Bay of Bengal's ocean floor to be approximately 92 million years old. This groundbreaking discovery, based on magnetic and seismic data, offers a clearer timeline for the region's geological formation. The findings shed light on the ancient history of the northeastern indian ocean, revealing crucial details about its evolution.

China's potential fourth aircraft carrier, possibly named 'He Jian' and hinted to be nuclear-powered, signals a significant advancement in its naval capabilities. This development, showcased in the film 'Into The Deep', aligns with China's transition to a blue-water navy and its expanding global maritime ambitions.

Global economy flourished when seas were free. Of course, this freedom has to be enforced. US did the job, until now. Consequences of abandoning that stand can be terrible

India’s imports of Russian crude oil have declined 20 per cent month-on-month in April to 1.57 million barrels per day, easing from the sharp surge recorded in March. The spike in March had been driven by the availability of floating cargoes during the Iran conflict.

US forces have intercepted at least three Iranian oil tankers in Asian waters, redirecting them away from key shipping lanes near India, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. This action intensifies Washington's maritime blockade on Iran, disrupting global energy flows. The US Central Command has directed numerous vessels to turn back, highlighting the growing impact on international trade amidst stalled diplomatic efforts.

Iran and the US remain locked in a standoff, with Iran effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz and the US imposing a naval blockade. Both actions disrupt global commons, while escalating rhetoric and social media influence commodity prices worldwide. India, heavily reliant on regional energy flows, faces significant economic fallout from this 'dual blockade'.