Historic Visit: PM Modi Becomes First Indian Premier to Visit Croatia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Zagreb on 18 June 2025, marking the first official visit by an Indian prime minister to Croatia.
Modi’s journey concludes a three-nation tour that began in Cyprus (15–16 June) and included participation in the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada (16–17 June). On June 18, he held talks with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović.
The two leaders discussed boosting cooperation in trade, technology, innovation and healthcare. India’s ambassador to Croatia, Arun Goel, highlighted shared concerns over terrorism and Croatia’s support following the Pahalgam attack.
The state visit is expected to generate new bilateral agreements and strengthen India–EU engagement through Croatia. It follows earlier pacts on areas such as culture, transport and defence cooperation drawn up since 1992.
Modi’s Croatian leg reflects India’s strategy to enhance ties across Europe, especially with EU partners interested in trade, tech and strategic connectivity.
New ₹3,000 FASTag Annual Pass to Simplify Highway Travel
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has launched a new FASTag-based annual pass for non-commercial private vehicles, announced by Minister Nitin Gadkari on 18 June 2025.
The pass will cost ₹3,000 and becomes available on 15 August 2025. It offers unlimited usage for one year or up to 200 toll trips, whichever is used first.
Designed for cars, jeeps and vans, the pass aims to provide smooth, cashless toll payments via the existing FASTag system. Buyers can activate or renew it through the NHAI and MoRTH websites or via the Rajmarg Yatra app.
Officials say this will reduce queues and disputes at toll plazas. Compared to existing monthly plans and single-use tolls, the annual pass offers considerable savings and convenience for frequent highway users.
The scheme aligns with the nation’s push for digital, barrier-free tolling and aims to enhance travel efficiency on national highways.
Bad Weather Forces Air India Flight from Bali to Divert to Varanasi
An Air India flight en route from Bali to Delhi was forced to divert to Varanasi on 18 June 2025 due to severe weather in the national capital.
The aircraft, carrying 187 passengers, was rerouted mid‑flight and landed safely at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi. The decision followed deteriorating visibility conditions in Delhi, which airport authorities deemed unsafe for landing.
Passengers were accommodated in Varanasi before the flight resumed its journey to Delhi later the same night . Air India confirmed that travellers were provided with full support, including hotel stays, refunds or complimentary rebooking.
This incident comes amid a broader trend of flight disruptions caused by unpredictable weather and volcanic ash. The airline has issued advisories advising customers to regularly check flight status and prepare for possible delays.
Passengers are urged to monitor official airline updates and allow extra travel time for their journeys.
Helicopter Services Suspended for Amarnath Yatra 2025
The Jammu and Kashmir government has declared that all pilgrimage routes to the Shri Amarnath cave will be designated as no‑fly zones from 1 July to 10 August 2025, cancelling helicopter services for this year’s Amarnath Yatra.
This marks the first time since the introduction of aerial transport that pilgrims will navigate the sacred journey exclusively on foot. The decision follows heightened security measures after the Pahalgam terror attack in April and intense focus on pilgrim safety.
The annual Yatra will run from 3 July to 9 August 2025, with no aerial routes allowed from either the Baltal or Pahalgam axes. Pilgrims are advised to prepare for longer foot treks and make necessary arrangements accordingly.
The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board has updated its guidelines on registration, health certificates and travel logistics in light of the no‑fly mandate. Authorities urge devotees to heed official communications for a smooth pilgrimage experience.
Red Alert Issued for Assam & Meghalaya Amid Heavy Rain Threat
A red alert has been declared for Assam and Meghalaya on 18–19 June 2025, with the alert downgraded to orange on 20 June, according to the Home Ministry and ASDMA.
The warning covers extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and squalls. Authorities in both states have mobilised emergency teams and advised residents in low-lying and hillside areas to remain vigilant. They also recommended stocking essentials such as medicines and candles.
Disruptions to transport, waterlogging and localized landslides are expected in vulnerable districts. Daily commuters and long-distance travellers are advised to plan travel carefully and avoid unnecessary trips during peak rainfall.
ASDMA has activated emergency helplines (0361‑1070, ‑1079, ‑112; DDMA‑0361‑1077) and urged the public to stay tuned to official weather updates. If needed, relocation to safer shelters or relief camps is being arranged for those in high-risk zones.
Residents have been urged to follow directives from local authorities and prepare for a prolonged spell of heavy rain over the next few days.
Starlink Granted Operating Licence in India
Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, has received an official licence to operate in India, according to government sources on 18 June 2025.
The licence will allow SpaceX to deploy its low Earth orbit satellite network across the country, with a primary focus on rural and remote regions lacking robust terrestrial connectivity. The standard hardware kit is expected to cost around ₹33,000. Monthly subscription plans may begin at approximately ₹3,000, with a promotional option set at ₹840.
The service promises download speeds ranging from 25 Mbps to 220 Mbps. These speeds are sufficient for common online activities, including video streaming, video conferencing, and remote work. Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia highlighted the licence as a transformative step toward bridging India’s digital divide.
Pending final approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN‑SPACe), Starlink aims to commence operations by late 2025 or early 2026. The rollout promises enhanced broadband connectivity in underserved areas.
