TFP 5 Explained: Remna Ni holiday as peace milestone, and global tensions, top news you might have missed today

1.

Stampede at Puri Rath Yatra: What Went Wrong?

What happened at the Puri Rath Yatra?

During the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, a deadly stampede broke out near the Gundicha Temple, resulting in the deaths of three devotees and injuries to over 50 others. The incident occurred in the early morning as thousands of pilgrims gathered to witness the rituals, with chaos reportedly triggered by two ritual trucks entering a congested area.

How did the authorities respond?

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed deep sorrow, announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh for each victim’s family, and suspended two senior police officers. The Collector and SP were also transferred, and a high-level probe was ordered to investigate lapses in crowd management.

What are the broader implications?

The tragedy has sparked national debate about safety at major religious events, with eyewitnesses blaming poor planning and VIP arrangements for the chaos. This is the first time such a fatal incident has occurred at the Gundicha Temple during Rath Yatra, raising urgent questions about preparedness and accountability.

So what?

The incident is a stark reminder of the need for robust crowd control, better coordination, and proactive planning at India’s mass gatherings to prevent avoidable tragedies.

2.

Remna Ni in Mizoram: Why Is This Day So Important?

What is Remna Ni and what does it commemorate?

Remna Ni, observed annually on 30 June, marks the anniversary of the Mizoram Peace Accord signed in 1986, which ended two decades of insurgency and violence in the state. This historic tripartite agreement between the Indian government, the Mizoram government, and the Mizo National Front (MNF) transformed Mizoram from a conflict zone into one of India’s most peaceful states.

How is Remna Ni celebrated and what are its key rituals?

Remna Ni is celebrated as a day of peace, unity, and reconciliation. Key rituals include the “Champha Hnam Rufi” or Peace Walk, where community leaders and citizens walk together singing hymns and praying for ongoing harmony. In the evening, thousands of candles are lit across Mizoram’s hills, symbolising the triumph of peace over conflict and the collective hope for a brighter future. Families and communities also participate in “Thutak Nunpuitu,” a festival of reconciliation and forgiveness.

What is the historical and cultural significance of Remna Ni?

The Mizoram Peace Accord is unique in Indian history for its success and longevity. It ended a violent insurgency that had even seen airstrikes by the Indian government on its own citizens, and led to Mizoram’s elevation to full statehood. The values of forgiveness, unity, and dialogue promoted by Remna Ni have shaped the state’s resilient identity and inspired peace-building efforts across the region.

How does Remna Ni impact life in Mizoram today?

Remna Ni is a public holiday in Mizoram, with banks and government offices closed, but its impact goes far beyond a day off. It is a living reminder of the power of reconciliation and the importance of maintaining peace. The festival continues to foster a culture of dialogue, inspire youth, and reinforce the state’s reputation as a model of post-conflict transformation.

So what?

Remna Ni stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Mizo people and the possibility of lasting peace through forgiveness and dialogue. Its legacy offers valuable lessons for conflict resolution and nation-building, both in India and globally.

3.

Russia Launches Deadliest Airstrike on Ukraine: What’s at Stake?

What happened in Ukraine overnight

Russia launched its largest air attack of the three-year war, firing over 500 aerial weapons—including drones and missiles—at targets across Ukraine, far from the frontlines. The strikes targeted military-industrial sites and oil refineries, causing significant damage and casualties, including the death of a Ukrainian F-16 pilot.

Why did this attack occur now?

The escalation comes amid stalled peace talks and is seen as an attempt by Moscow to maintain military and psychological pressure on Ukraine. The timing also coincides with Ukraine’s parliament moving to allow multiple citizenship, a move aimed at addressing demographic challenges caused by the war.

How did Ukraine respond and what are the global reactions?

Ukraine’s air defences intercepted most of the drones and missiles, but the scale of the attack underscores the country’s vulnerability and the need for advanced Western air defence systems. Western governments have condemned the strikes and pledged continued support for Ukraine, while the humanitarian toll continues to rise.

So what?

This massive airstrike marks a new phase in the conflict, threatening regional stability and highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation and suffering.

4.

Canada-US trade talks back on track: What changed?

What triggered the trade standoff and how was it resolved

The US suspended trade talks after Canada announced a digital services tax targeting US tech giants. On June 29, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney withdrew the tax just before it was to take effect, leading both leaders to agree to resume negotiations and aim for a deal by July 21

What was the digital services tax and why did it matter?

The Digital Services Tax would have imposed a 3% levy on revenues from digital services provided to Canadian users, mainly affecting major US tech firms. The US saw the tax as discriminatory and a threat to cross-border trade.

What are the next steps for both countries?

With the tax withdrawn, trade negotiations have resumed, with both sides aiming to reach a comprehensive agreement by late July. The episode highlights the sensitivity of digital taxation and the importance of US-Canada economic ties.

So what?

The quick resolution prevents a major trade rift and demonstrates the leverage of digital policy in global trade. It also sets a precedent for how digital taxes may be negotiated in other international contexts.

5.

Monsoon covers entire India nine days early: What are the impacts?

What is the latest update on the Indian monsoon?

The India Meteorological Department confirmed that the southwest monsoon covered the entire country by June 29 — nine days ahead of schedule. This rapid and widespread onset brought heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple states, sparking floods and disruptions.

Daily Weather Briefing English (29.06.2025)

YouTube : https://t.co/QivKAcimZ9#imd #WeatherUpdate #mausam #Rainfall #heavyrain #monsoon #thunderstorm #lightning #himachalpradesh #uttarakhand #jharkhand #odisha #punjab #haryana #uttarpradesh #maharashtra #konkan #goa #westbengal… pic.twitter.com/hamkr0rUxu

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) June 29, 2025

What caused the early and intense monsoon?

The monsoon’s early arrival was driven by a strong low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal and an unusual spike in western disturbances, which brought intense pre-monsoon showers to many regions. Mumbai, for example, saw its earliest monsoon in 25 years.

What are the immediate effects and risks?

While the early rains have brought relief from heat and boosted crop sowing, they have also caused flooding, landslides, and infrastructure disruptions in both eastern and western states. Authorities have issued alerts and are monitoring cyclonic activity that could further impact vulnerable areas.

So what?

The early monsoon is a double-edged sword—beneficial for agriculture but challenging for disaster management. Effective planning and response will be crucial to minimising risks and maximising benefits for millions across India.