News Update: 26 July 2007

1) Political Crisis in Goa: The Digambar Kamat-led Congress government in Goa is on the verge of collapse, after the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak party (MGP) withdrew support to the coalition. Another independent MLA too withdrew support, while a Congress MLA resigned from the assembly. BJP leader Manohar Parikar staked claim to form the next government in Goa, with the support of these legislators.

2) New Army Chief: Lt Gen Deepak Kapoor, ar artillery officer, will take over as the new Army Chief of India. Currently, he is serving as the Vice Chief.

3) Kiran Bedi Hits Back: Kiran Bedi lashed out at the government for overlooking her for the post of Delhi’s police commissioner. She vowed to fight the injustice meted out to her. Bedi, a hot contender for the post, has been sidelined by the political and bureaucrats, who acted against her. She dared the people who are acting against her behind the scene, to come out in open and speak.

4) Bird Flu detected in Manipur: Bird Flu is back. The outbreak of the deadly disease in Manipur was confirmed by the Indian Government. The dangerous H5N1 strain was found among the dead poultry birds. The government has raised a high alert in all states in order to prevent the disease from spreading further.

5) Pakistan test-fires Babur Missile: In response to India's Brahmos, Pakistan successfully test-fired the Babur Cruise missile, which has a range of 700 kms. The Babur missile is VII of the Hatf series and is capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

6) Tatas to bag Jaguar, Land Rover: According to reports, Tata Motors has clinched the deal to buy Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford. The deal is expected to be worth $1.5 billion. However, neither side confirmed the reports.