New ‘RAT’ Footage Suggests Dual Engine Failure in Air India Flight 171 Crash
A clearer video shows the deployment of the Ram Air Turbine, indicating a major dual power loss.
A high-resolution video of Air India Flight 171 reveals the Ram Air Turbine (RAT) deploying under the right wing—a strong indication of simultaneous engine failure shortly after takeoff. The RAT activates when both engines fail, supplying essential hydraulic and electrical power to control systems.
Eyewitnesses and cockpit recordings suggest the aircraft struggled to climb beyond 450 feet, consistent with thrust loss from both General Electric GEnx engines. A “mayday” call referencing engine failure corroborates this scenario.
Analysts note the RAT’s early deployment strongly undermines flap or landing gear malfunction theories. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has ordered urgent inspections of fuel systems and engine controls on other 787s while investigations continue.
Oil Prices Spike Near $75 as Israel–Iran Conflict Intensifies
A sharp rise in Brent crude amid Middle Eastern tensions rattles markets and raises inflation concerns.
Brent crude surged to approximately $74.8–74.9 per barrel on Monday, marking an 11% jump this month following Israel’s strikes on Iranian targets. The surge in oil prices has sparked warnings of an “adverse shock” to the global economy, potentially increasing inflation by around 0.1%.
For India, the consequences are significant. The rupee weakened past ₹86/USD, prompting the Reserve Bank of India to intervene through dollar sales. Domestic oil firms ONGC and Oil India saw shares rise by up to 3%, but downstream companies and automotive parts makers faced stock pressure.
Economists caution that prolonged high crude prices could strain oil-importing economies like India, exacerbating inflation and widening trade deficits. The RBI now faces pressure to manage currency volatility and re-evaluate monetary policies amid persistent external risks.
Sonia Gandhi Hospitalised at Ganga Ram Hospital Amid Stomach Ailment
Congress veteran admitted for routine observation; condition remains stable.
Senior Congress leader and Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi on Sunday evening for evaluation of a stomach-related issue. She has been placed under observation in the hospital’s gastroenterology unit.
Hospital officials stated her condition is currently stable and she is responding well to treatment. Doctors are conducting necessary tests and monitoring her condition carefully, while the hospital has not disclosed further details.
Gandhi, 78, had recently undergone routine medical checks in Shimla after experiencing mild hypertension. She remains under specialist care and there is no indication of serious complications at this time.
SBI Cuts FD and Savings Rates, Urges Customers to Reassess Investments
India’s largest bank trims deposit returns amid RBI rate cuts.
State Bank of India (SBI) reduced its fixed deposit (FD) interest rates by 25 basis points (bps) across all standard tenures and slashed savings account rates by up to 50 bps, effective 15 June 2025. The savings rate has now fallen to a record low of 2.5% per annum .
The adjustments come in the wake of the Reserve Bank of India’s recent 50 bps repo rate cut. SBI has also reduced rates on its “Amrit Vrishti” FD scheme, now offering 6.85% for a 444-day deposit lower than earlier.
Financial advisers warn that continuing rate cuts may undermine FD returns, especially for risk-averse investors. They recommend exploring alternatives like longer-term FDs, debt mutual funds, or laddered portfolios to potentially secure better yields.
Customers are encouraged to review their current and upcoming investments in light of the reduced returns.
Gambhir to Rejoin India Squad in England Ahead of Five‑Test Series
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir is set to return to the England tour just days before the first Test.
Gautam Gambhir, who left England on 12 June due to a family medical emergency, will rejoin the Indian Test side on 17 June, three days before the series opener on 20 June at Headingley.
Gambhir’s departure followed a serious incident involving his mother’s health, prompting his swift return to India. In his absence, the team continued final preparations for the five‑match Test series under interim support staff.
His return is expected to bolster the coaching unit, led by captain Shubman Gill in a transitional phase following the retirements of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and R Ashwin. Gambhir’s presence will bring strategic insight and leadership ahead of crucial early Tests, including at Headingley, Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval.
Kedarnath-Bound Helicopter Crashes, Seven Die Including Pilot and Toddler
A helicopter carrying pilgrims from Kedarnath to Guptkashi crashed near Gaurikund amid poor weather conditions.
Early on Sunday, June 15, a Bell 407 helicopter operated by Aryan Aviation crashed into dense forest near Gaurikund, Uttarakhand, killing all seven people aboard, including the pilot, five pilgrims, and a toddler—just minutes after takeoff around 5:20 am amid low visibility and adverse weather.
The aircraft caught fire upon impact, leaving victims severely burned. Authorities reported that the crash marks the fifth such helicopter incident along the Char Dham pilgrimage route since late April.
In response, Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ordered a full investigation and suspended all helicopter services to the Kedarnath valley until further notice. The Civil Aviation Ministry and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation have also launched probes, with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau due to arrive at the site.
