The WD_BLACK SN7100 NVMe SSD, a purpose-built gaming drive from Sandisk, is now available in India. The high performance WD_BLACK

Built with Sandisk’s latest TLC 3D NAND, this new SSD delivers speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write¹ (1-2TB models), providing up to a 35% performance boost over our previous generation⁴ SSD. For mainstream gamers who are looking for more capacity, the WD_BLACK SN7100 NVMe SSD provides massive storage options with up to 4TB² of storage capacity, for current game libraries with space left over for new games, future updates, and downloadable content.

This high-performing NVMe SSD is engineered with laptops and gaming handhelds in mind, providing up to 100% more power efficiency at maximum speed over the previous generation³. It also boasts up to 1,200TBW⁴ (4TB model) of endurance for gameplay streaming, speedrun captures, and creating with the latest game engines and for gamers who often write and delete a lot of data from their drives.

“As games become more complex and storage intensive, the gamer of today needs high performance SSDs that offer power efficiency for longer gameplay. The SN7100 NVMe^TM SSD is just the drive for the next generation of gaming as it delivers amazing performance, higher capacity, and faster load times. It helps gamers to play their best.” Said, Khalid Wani, Senior Director Sales- India, Sandisk

Key features of the WD_BLACK SN7100 SSD include:

• Blazing speed of up to 7,250MB/s read & 6,900MB/s write (1TB–2TB)
• High-capacity storage options ranging from 500GB to 4TB
• Features TLC 3D NAND & PCIe® Gen 4 for faster and smoother gaming
• Accelerates streaming, content creation & heavy gaming with 2,400TBW endurance (4TB)
• Lightweight, durable,DRAM-less design with a 5-year limited warranty
• Equipped with WD_BLACK Dashboard (Windows®) that enables game mode, health monitoring & firmware updates.
• Detailed specifications here

Pricing and availability

The WD_BLACK SN7100 NVMe SSD comes in capacities including 500GB, 1TB, 2TB and 4TB. Price starting from INR4899 (500GB model). It is available at leading IT Resellers and Ecommerce channels across the country

seen work transition rates improve and more women pursuing non-traditional careers. As the world
of work evolves — shaped by automation, climate change, and emerging technologies — young
people must develop not just technical skills, but also the mindset to adapt and lead. They should be
able to craft the future they wish to see for themselves. This means making learning more learner-
led and learner-centric, and instilling the same mindset in educators and facilitators. Our approach
aims to create equitable access and empower all stakeholders to thrive in a fast-changing world.”
This MoU marks a pivotal moment in advancing inclusive, industry-aligned, and future-focused
education across Delhi’s ITIs.

This initiative was launched in March 2025 in response to the increasing number of accidents involving school buses (Bal Vahinis) across India, emphasizing the urgent need to sensitize school transport personnel about road safety and emergency response.

Recognizing the critical need for safer school transportation, this project has been jointly initiated as a pilot project across different cities – Varanasi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Mumbai and Bangalore covering more than 1000 drivers and conductors through 8 workshops. The initiative aims to create a model for systematic and technology-driven training that will be expanded to multiple cities in the coming years to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.

Some of the key training topics covered under this program were key legal provisions under the Motor Vehicle Act 1988 & 2019 (Amendment) that includes school transport safety regulations, defensive driving techniques, preventive measures for road safety, emergency response & First Aid, quick response strategies for road crashes, responsibilities of drivers and attendants, ensuring a safe commute for school children, traffic discipline & ethical road behavior and promoting responsible driving practices.

This program is not a one-time intervention but a continuous training initiative that will be conducted every year to ensure that school bus drivers and attendants stay updated on road safety practices. To reinforce the learning, participants were also provided with reading materials and awareness resources to help them retain and apply the training insights in their daily driving practices.

In total more than 400 school bus drivers and attendants participated in three workshops conducted with Sunbeam Group of Institutions in Varanasi. The training was conducted by Muskaan Foundation for Road Safety, a two-time national award-winning NGO that has been dedicated to road safety awareness since 2001. Netradyne, a Bangalore-based AI startup, extended its support to the initiative, bringing in technology-driven solutions to improve road safety standards. The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Mr. Shikhar Ojha, Regional Transport Officer, Varanasi; Mr. Deepak Madhok, Chairperson, Sunbeam Group of Institutions; Ms. Neha Khullar, Director – Projects, Muskaan Foundation for Road Safety and Amit Kumar, Senior Director – Marketing, Netradyne. Other noted dignitaries included Mr. Himanshu Nagpal, IAS – Chief Development Officer, Varanasi, Mr. Sudhanshu Ranjan – Additional Regional Transport Officer (Enforcement), Varanasi; Ms. Amrita Burman – Director, Sunbeam Group of Educational Institutions; and Ms. Ranjini Shetty – Associate Director – HR, Netradyne

“We hardly had electricity, and there was no internet at home. But I was determined to keep going. My brother used to download PhysicsWallah videos and bring them home. Those lectures became my lifeline, especially for tough subjects like Physics and Chemistry. PW made big concepts feel simple. I want to crack the UPSC and support my family this is just the beginning,” said Preeti

Alakh Pandey, Teacher, Founder and CEO of PW, said, “ Preeti’s result is an example of the value of regular effort and the right resources. At PW, we try to support students from various backgrounds to help them prepare for their academic goals. Board exams are one of the significant milestones in a student’s academic journey, and we’re proud to have tried to support our students when sought through this important phase.”

This year, over 8 lakh students appeared for the RBSE Class 12 examination. Preeti’s  performance places her among the students who secured high scores and is also an example of the role of hybrid learning in academic preparation.

On May 20, 2025, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season will witness its final league match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in Delhi. Both teams have already been eliminated from the playoff race, making this match a contest for pride and to end their season on a positive note.

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have a storied rivalry in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Historically, CSK has had the upper hand, winning 16 out of 29 encounters. However, RR has shown resilience, securing victories in 13 matches and demonstrating their ability to challenge the five-time champions. In recent seasons, RR has gained momentum, winning four out of the last five encounters against CSK, indicating a shift in the balance of power.

This match is particularly significant as it marks the first time these two teams will face each other at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The pitch at this venue is known to be batsman-friendly, offering good bounce and carry, which could favor aggressive stroke play. However, as the match progresses, spinners may find assistance, adding an intriguing dynamic to the contest.

Match Details

• Teams: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Rajasthan Royals (RR)
• Date: May 20, 2025
• Time: Toss at 7:00 PM IST; Match starts at 7:30 PM IST
• Venue: Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium, Delhi

Head-to-Head Record

In the 30 IPL encounters between CSK and RR, CSK leads with 16 wins, while RR has 14 victories. However, in the last five meetings since 2022, RR has dominated with four wins, indicating a shift in the rivalry’s dynamics. The most recent match on March 30, 2025, saw RR narrowly defeat CSK by 6 runs in Guwahati .

Key Players to Watch

Chennai Super Kings (CSK):

• Ruturaj Gaikwad: The opening batsman has been a consistent performer for CSK, providing solid starts.
• MS Dhoni: The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman continues to be a pivotal figure in CSK’s lineup.
• Ravindra Jadeja: Known for his all-round capabilities, Jadeja’s experience will be crucial in this encounter.

Rajasthan Royals (RR):

• Yashasvi Jaiswal: The young opener has been in exceptional form, accumulating runs at a rapid pace.
• Shivam Dube: A promising all-rounder, Dube’s contributions with both bat and ball have been noteworthy.
• Wanindu Hasaranga: The Sri Lankan leg-spinner has been effective in the middle overs, providing crucial breakthroughs.

Pitch Report

The Arun Jaitley Stadium’s pitch traditionally favors batsmen, offering good pace and bounce. However, as the match progresses, spinners are expected to gain more assistance, making it a balanced surface for both departments. Teams winning the toss might opt to bowl first, considering the dew factor in the evening.

Weather Forecast

Delhi’s weather on match day is anticipated to be hot, with temperatures ranging between 39°C to 45°C. Humidity levels will be high, which could lead to fatigue among players. No rain is expected, ensuring a full-length match.

Conclusion

While both teams have been eliminated from the playoff contention, this match offers them an opportunity to end their season on a high note. CSK will look to leverage their experience, whereas RR will aim to continue their recent dominance over CSK. Cricket enthusiasts can expect an exciting contest as both teams battle for pride.

For CSK, veteran players like MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja bring invaluable experience to the team. Dhoni’s leadership and finishing abilities are well-known, while Jadeja’s all-round skills can turn the game in CSK’s favor. On the other hand, RR’s young talents, including Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Surya, have been in impressive form, providing the team with a fresh and dynamic approach.

As both teams aim to conclude their season with a victory, fans can anticipate a thrilling encounter filled with strategic gameplay, individual brilliance, and moments of high drama. This match not only offers a chance for redemption but also sets the stage for future encounters between these two formidable teams.

Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali has expressed that the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from India’s Test squad could provide England with a significant advantage in the upcoming five-match Test series starting June 20 at Headingley. Ali emphasized that the experienced duo’s absence might weaken India’s leadership and batting strength, potentially tilting the balance in favor of England.

Moeen Ali: A Brief Overview

Moeen Munir Ali, born on June 18, 1987, in Birmingham, England, is a distinguished English cricketer known for his versatility as a left-handed batter and right-arm off-spin bowler. He began his domestic career with Worcestershire and later represented Warwickshire. Ali made his international debut for England in 2014 across all formats and was part of the teams that clinched the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2022 ICC T20 World Cup.

Retirement of Kohli and Rohit: Impact on Indian Team

The recent retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket have left a void in India’s leadership and experienced batting lineup. Ali noted that Kohli’s influence as a trailblazer in Test cricket and Sharma’s leadership experience would be missed, potentially affecting India’s performance in challenging conditions like those in England.

Leadership Transition in Indian Cricket

With the departure of Kohli and Rohit, India faces the challenge of selecting new leadership. Players like Shubman Gill, who has captained Gujarat Titans in the IPL, and Jasprit Bumrah, known for his leadership qualities, are considered potential candidates. However, Bumrah’s fitness and injury history might influence the decision.

Moeen Ali’s Insights on India’s Leadership Dilemma

Ali suggested that Shubman Gill could be a strong contender for the captaincy, despite his limited experience in leading at the international level. He also acknowledged Bumrah’s leadership capabilities but highlighted concerns regarding his injury record, which might affect his availability for the entire series.

Conclusion

The upcoming India-England Test series is poised to be a significant contest, with leadership transitions and strategic decisions playing pivotal roles. England’s potential advantage due to India’s leadership changes could influence the series’ outcome. Both teams will need to adapt and strategize effectively to capitalize on their strengths and address challenges.

• Surrender of Terrorists: It is imperative to demand the extradition of individuals implicated in terrorism, notably Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed.

• Dismantling of Terrorist Camps: A key requirement should be the closure of all terrorist camps operating within Pakistan. For long-term security, effective verification measures must be established to ensure these camps are permanently shut down.

• Return of Prisoners of War: The delicate issue of prisoners of war from prior conflicts, including those from the 1965 1972 requires careful diplomatic engagement. Repatriation should be thoughtfully negotiated.

• Ceasefire Adherence and Prevention of Terrorist Activities: To maintain regional stability, it is essential to uphold the ceasefire and prevent any cross-border terrorism. Both nations must commit to their agreements and implement robust monitoring systems to ensure compliance.

Addressing Negotiation Challenges:

Building trust and ensuring adherence to agreements will be vital throughout this negotiation process. Engaging with international partners may facilitate discussions and reinforce compliance with any finalized agreements. It is essential for both India and Pakistan to demonstrate political maturity while accounting for their internal political dynamics, which will inevitably affect negotiations.

These recommendations are aimed at reinforcing India’s strategic position while promoting a peaceful resolution to tensions with Pakistan. It is crucial that our leadership approaches this opportunity with a rigorous and thoughtful strategy.

In a significant development, India and Pakistan have declared a ceasefire after days of intense military clashes, including missile and drone strikes, along their shared border. The truce, announced on May 10, 2025, followed diplomatic efforts led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with additional support from the UK and Saudi Arabia. Both nations claimed victory, fueling nationalistic celebrations, while accusing each other of initial ceasefire violations at the Kashmir border.

Operation Sindoor: India’s Retaliatory Strikes

The conflict escalated after a terrorist attack in Kashmir killed 22 people, mostly Hindu tourists. In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting Pakistani military bases. Pakistan responded with military actions of its own. Despite the ceasefire, underlying tensions over the Kashmir dispute remain unresolved. Civilian casualties and destruction have been significant, particularly in areas like Poonch and Neelum Valley.

U.S. Mediation and Diplomatic Efforts

The ceasefire came after intense diplomatic efforts led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, who urged both sides to de-escalate. President Trump lauded the agreement on social media. However, shortly after the ceasefire began, India accused Pakistan of violations, which Islamabad denied. While initial talks were promised, India’s Foreign Ministry rebuffed further dialogue claims.

Military Losses and Border Tensions

The Indian Army lost five soldiers in Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, while the Pakistan Army reportedly lost nearly 35 to 40 personnel between May 7-10 in firing across the Line of Control, said the Army. The forward border locations in Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and Rajasthan witnessed a night of peace after four days of continuous and intense drone and missile attacks from across the border. No drones were intercepted by the Indian Air Defence Systems on May 11 or after midnight. No shelling by Pakistani troops was reported from the border areas, including Akhnoor and Poonch.

Future Outlook: Fragile Peace

The recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, brokered by the United States, has provided temporary relief after intense cross-border confrontations. However, the underlying issues, particularly the Kashmir dispute, remain unresolved, casting doubt on the durability of this peace.

Both nations have accused each other of ceasefire violations. India’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) emphasized a “firm and clear” intent to respond “fiercely and punitively” to any future breaches, signaling India’s readiness to defend its interests.

The international community continues to urge both sides to engage in dialogue and work towards a lasting peace. The United Nations has called for “maximum restraint,” and countries like Iran, Russia, and China have expressed concern over the escalating tensions.

Civil society members in both India and Pakistan have also advocated for dialogue, emphasizing that a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue is essential for regional stability.

In conclusion, while the ceasefire offers a temporary respite, the path to lasting peace requires sustained diplomatic efforts, mutual trust, and a commitment to addressing the core issues at the heart of the India-Pakistan conflict..

Conclusion: Navigating a Fragile Peace

The recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, though offering a temporary respite, underscores the persistent volatility of the region. While the immediate threat of escalation has been averted, the underlying issues, particularly the Kashmir dispute, remain unresolved. Both nations continue to accuse each other of ceasefire violations, and the situation remains fragile. The international community continues to urge both sides to engage in dialogue and work towards a lasting peace.

The United Nations has expressed hope that this ceasefire will provide an opportunity for further dialogue. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the announcement by both countries to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the Line of Control, emphasizing that this positive step could pave the way for renewed discussions .

In conclusion, while the ceasefire offers a temporary respite, the path to lasting peace requires sustained diplomatic efforts, mutual trust, and a commitment to addressing the core issues at the heart of the India-Pakistan conflict.

On May 7, 2025, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a series of targeted airstrikes on nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, in retaliation for the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. The operation aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)

Key Terrorists Eliminated:

The airstrikes led to the elimination of five prominent terrorists:

1. Abu Jundal – Involved in the 1999 IC-814 hijacking and active in various terrorist activities in India.
2. Hafiz Muhammad Jameel – Senior commander of LeT, responsible for several attacks in Kashmir.
3. Yusuf Azhar – Key member of JeM, implicated in multiple terrorist operations.
4. Mohammad Hasan – LeT operative involved in planning and executing attacks in India.
5. Abu Akasha (Khalid) – A senior LeT operative, active in Jammu & Kashmir and involved in arms smuggling from Afghanistan.

Abu Akasha’s Background:

Khalid, known as Abu Akasha, was a high-ranking member of LeT and had been on India’s most-wanted list. He was implicated in several attacks in Jammu & Kashmir and had connections to arms trafficking from Afghanistan. His death in the airstrikes was confirmed by Pakistani officials, and his funeral was attended by senior military officers and the Deputy Commissioner of Faisalabad, indicating his significant status within terrorist circles.

Operation Sindoor: Strategic Response

The operation was a direct response to the Pahalgam attack, which India attributed to Pakistan-based militants. India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, stated that the strikes were “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” targeting terrorist camps without hitting Pakistani military facilities. The use of Rafale jets equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, along with BrahMos cruise missiles and SkyStriker loitering munitions, underscored India’s advanced military capabilities.

Pakistan’s Reaction:

Pakistan condemned the airstrikes as an “act of war” and claimed to have downed several Indian aircraft in retaliation. The Pakistani military reported civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, while India denied these claims, stating that its aircraft were not hit. Both nations engaged in heavy cross-border shelling, leading to casualties on both sides and significant disruption to civilian life.

International Community’s Response:

The international community has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, both nuclear-armed nations. Following the recent missile exchanges, calls for de-escalation and dialogue have been issued by various global actors. The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for “maximum restraint” from both sides, stating that “the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan” .

The United States, through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urged both nations to pursue de-escalation strategies to prevent further conflict and expressed willingness to assist in initiating constructive dialogue . China also called for restraint, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressing concern over the current tensions and advocating for dialogue to resolve issues . Additionally, countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Russia have echoed similar sentiments, urging both India and Pakistan to exercise caution and engage in diplomatic discussions to avoid further escalation .

Conclusion:

Operation Sindoor represents a pivotal moment in India’s counterterrorism strategy, underscoring its determination to confront and dismantle terrorist networks operating from Pakistan. The operation’s success in eliminating key militants, including Abdul Rauf Azhar, has been widely acknowledged as a significant blow to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba . However, the subsequent escalation, marked by extensive aerial engagements and retaliatory strikes, has heightened fears of a broader conflict between two nuclear-armed nations .

In this volatile environment, the role of global powers and international organizations becomes crucial in facilitating dialogue and promoting stability. The situation remains fluid, and the coming days will be critical in determining whether both nations can navigate this crisis without plunging the region into a prolonged and devastating conflict.

On the night of May 8, 2025, explosions and missile flashes illuminated the skies over Jammu, India, as Pakistani-origin drones and missiles targeted military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. The attacks, which lasted approximately two and a half hours, were intercepted by India’s air defense systems, causing no reported casualties or material damage. Electricity in Jammu was temporarily disrupted during the assault.

2. Pakistan’s Denial and Retaliatory Claims

Pakistan denied involvement in the attacks, labeling India’s accusations as “entirely unfounded, politically motivated, and part of a reckless propaganda campaign.” In response, Pakistan claimed to have downed 25 Indian drones and shot down five Indian aircraft, assertions that India has disputed.

3. Civilian Impact and Infrastructure Damage

The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides. In Jammu, explosions and missile flashes led to a temporary power blackout, while artillery fire in Poonch District caused 15 civilian deaths and 43 injuries. In Pakistan, 31 civilians were killed due to Indian missile strikes and artillery shelling.

4. International Calls for De-escalation

Global powers, including the United States, Russia, and China, have urged both countries to de-escalate tensions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged with leaders from both nations to encourage diplomatic dialogue.

5. Economic Repercussions

The escalating conflict has negatively impacted financial markets in both nations. The Indian rupee weakened by 0.8% to 85.59 per dollar, while the benchmark 10-year bond yield rose by over 7 basis points to 6.3807%. The NSE Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex indices also dropped by 0.5% and 0.4%, respectively. Market experts attribute the downturn to heightened geopolitical tensions.

6. Civil Defense Measures

In preparation for potential escalation, India conducted a nationwide civil defense exercise on May 7, 2025, known as Operation Abhyaas. This drill involved air-raid siren tests, blackout simulations, evacuation drills, and public training sessions across 244 districts, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.

Operation Abhyaas: Nationwide Civil Defence Exercise

In response to escalating tensions following the Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025, India initiated a comprehensive civil defence exercise named Operation Abhyaas on May 7, 2025. This nationwide drill aimed to enhance emergency preparedness across 244 districts, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad. Organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs and coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the exercise focused on simulating responses to potential hostile scenarios and natural disasters.

Key Activities Conducted

• Air Raid Siren Tests: In Delhi, 60 air raid sirens were activated at 4:00 PM across 55 locations, including Khan Market, Select Citywalk Mall, and Chandni Chowk. These tests aimed to familiarize the public with emergency alerts and ensure timely evacuations.
• Blackout Simulations: A 15-minute scheduled blackout was conducted in Delhi’s NDMC area from 8:00 PM to 8:15 PM, testing the city’s response to power outages during emergencies. The blackout was executed smoothly, with power restored promptly and no major public complaints reported.
• Evacuation Drills: In Hyderabad, mock evacuation drills were carried out between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM within the Outer Ring Road limits. Key sites such as Secunderabad, Golconda Fort, Kanchan Bagh, and Nacharam served as focal points for these drills. Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, fire, rescue, medical, and municipal departments participated in the exercise.
• Public Training Sessions: Across various states, public awareness campaigns were conducted to educate citizens on emergency response procedures, including first aid, fire safety, and shelter management. In Kerala, mock drills were conducted across all 14 districts, with the state government urging public cooperation and preparedness.

Objectives and Outcomes

The primary objective of Operation Abhyaas was to bolster civilian readiness against potential threats, particularly in light of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The exercise successfully tested the coordination among various agencies and the public’s response to simulated emergencies. It also highlighted areas for improvement in communication, resource mobilization, and public awareness.

The nationwide participation underscored the collective effort required to enhance national security and disaster resilience. While the exercise was conducted smoothly, it also served as a reminder of the importance of continuous training and preparedness in safeguarding communities.

7. Current Situation

Both nations have closed airspace and suspended flights in affected regions. At least 25 airports in northern and western India have been shut down until May 10, 2025, and civil operations at Srinagar Airport have been halted indefinitely. Pakistan has also canceled flights and closed schools and colleges in several provinces. The situation remains tense, with both sides on high alert. International observers continue to monitor developments closely, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.