Mumbai, October 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated rail projects worth ₹13,000 crores in Chennai on October 11. The projects include the launch of the Chennai Metro Rail, which was constructed at a cost of approximately ₹4,900 crores. Modi also inaugurated the 14.6 km long Poonamallee-Vadapalani route of the Chennai Metro’s Phase-2 project, traveling from Porur Bypass Station to Poonamallee Bypass Station. Additionally, he virtually inaugurated the restored Vellore Cantonment Railway Station, located near a 16th-century fort in Vellore city. According to railway officials, this restoration will enhance facilities for long-distance travelers between Tiruvannamalai and Tirupati.
In another significant event, the Indian Air Force’s multinational air exercise ‘Tarang Shakti 2026’ concluded today. Held at Air Force Station Jodhpur and surrounding air bases, the exercise saw participation from eight friendly nations, including Australia, Bangladesh, France, Germany, Greece, Sri Lanka, UAE, and the USA, with 32 countries observing. Air Marshal Ashutosh Dikshit, Vice Chief of Air Staff, emphasized that the exercise focused on learning from each other, collaboration, and preparing for future aerial warfare challenges. It included various complex missions such as counter-air operations, air defense, and air-to-air refueling, showcasing India’s growing capabilities and indigenous defense technology.
Furthermore, Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh is set to visit Cyprus and Greece today to strengthen defense relations, focusing on maritime security and defense technology cooperation. This visit follows previous engagements between Indian and Cypriot leaders, emphasizing the importance of defense diplomacy.
In sports, Assam’s lawn bowls player Putul Sonowal won a bronze medal at the World Bowls Championship 2026 held in Australia, marking India’s first medal in this tournament. Sonowal, a member of Assam Police, reached the semifinals in the men’s singles event.
In football news, Cristiano Ronaldo has been suspended by the Portugal Football Federation for leaving the team, with disciplinary proceedings initiated against him. The federation stated that the case has been referred to the disciplinary investigation committee. Ronaldo, who has scored over 980 goals for Portugal, was not fielded in three matches, despite the team achieving victories.