Sydney Thunder produced a clinical all-round performance to crush Melbourne Stars by nine wickets in a rain-hit WBBL|11 contest at Junction Oval, Melbourne, with Georgia Voll at the heart of an emphatic victory on Saturday. ​ The match was reduced to a 10-overs-a-side shootout due to persistent showers, but Thunder adapted far better to the truncated conditions to chase down a DLS-adjusted target of 76 with 17 balls to spare. ​

Georgia Voll’s all-round masterclass against Melbourne Stars

Voll delivered a decisive double blow with the ball and then returned to anchor a turbo-charged chase, justifying her Player of the Match and MVP billing. Introduced after a steady Stars start, the off‑spinning all-rounder removed captain Annabel Sutherland for a duck via sharp work from keeper Tahlia Wilson, before dismissing the dangerous Danielle Gibson to derail any late surge, finishing with 2 for 13 in her two overs. Her control through the middle, alongside disciplined spells from Lucy Finn (2 for 10) and Emily Arlott (2 for 18), ensured Stars were squeezed to just 66 for 6 from their 10 overs, despite the platform laid by Rhys McKenna’s brisk 24 off 22 and Meg Lanning’s 13 off 17.​

With the target adjusted to 76 under DLS, Voll shifted seamlessly into aggressor-in-chief after the Powerplay. Coming in alongside an in‑form Phoebe Litchfield, she showcased clean, orthodox ball-striking, racing to an unbeaten 33 off just 18 deliveries, peppered with seven boundaries that repeatedly split the packed off-side field. Even after Litchfield fell for a commanding 37 off 23 balls to Sutherland with only 10 runs needed, Voll remained composed, rotating strike before Laura Harris finished the job with a flurry of attacking strokes, leaving Thunder 79 for 1 in 7.1 overs.​

Also READ: Georgia Wareham’s all-round show powers Melbourne Renegades to emphatic win over Sydney Sixers

Sydney Thunder dominate rain-shortened contest

Earlier, Stars appeared well placed at 29 without loss in 4.2 overs when rain first interrupted play, with McKenna taking advantage of the fielding restrictions and Lanning bedding in for a longer stay. However, the extended delay not only trimmed the innings to 10 overs but also disrupted their rhythm, and on resumption Thunder’s seam-spin mix ruthlessly exposed the pressure to accelerate. From 36 for 1 in the fifth over, Stars lost five wickets for 23 runs in the final 5.1 overs, with Maia Bouchier, Amy Jones and Lanning all falling in quick succession to leave Kim Garth (5*) and Georgia Prestwidge (2*) merely scraping the total to 66.​

Thunder’s reply was the complete contrast: proactive, calculated and relentless. Litchfield set the tone in the Powerplay, driving and lofting through the line to lift Thunder to 50 in just 4.3 overs, a stand of 50 from 27 balls with Voll that effectively killed the contest. Stars’ attack had no answers as Sophie Day and Prestwidge leaked 34 runs in just 2.1 overs at the back end, underlining Thunder’s dominance and leaving the hosts’ home-final ambitions under serious threat, while Thunder signed off their campaign with a statement win built around Voll’s outstanding all-round display.​

Volly had a day out in Melbourne to end her #WBBL11 campaign in style 👏 #POTM pic.twitter.com/HsaaernPOR

— Weber Women’s Big Bash League (@WBBL) December 6, 2025

Also READ: WBBL|11: Phoebe Litchfield sizzles in Sydney Thunder’s emphatic win over Brisbane Heat

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) slashed the repo rate by a quarter point to 5.25% on Friday, at a time when the economy is growing strongly and inflation remains exceptionally low. SBI, in its latest report hailed the decision hailed as “exceptional” and said that the central bank had played its role in ensuring that the monetary policy continues to support the country’s economic growth.The bank further added added that it was now up to the markets to remain disciplined and avoid overreaction. The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee voted unanimously to reduce the repo rate while maintaining a neutral stance. The cut comes amid global uncertainty, even as India’s GDP expanded by over 8.2% in the July–September 2025 quarter and inflation slipped to just 0.25% in October. SBI Research noted that such a move is rare internationally. “Historical data of other countries reveal that there have been minimal instances across the UK, China and Indonesia, where central banks have reduced their rates even when GDP growth was high,” the report said. In past cases, these cuts were typically made from higher interest rate levels and during periods of higher inflation. The report cited the UK in the early 1970s, when chancellor Anthony Barber enacted a “dash for growth” by cutting rates despite inflation at 11% and growth at 12.5%. Similarly, Indonesia cut rates successively from 1995 to 1997, with growth at 8.6% and inflation at 7.4% prior to the Asian financial crisis. “Its only China that had cut in 2012 and 2015 when inflation was averaging 1.8% and growth at 7.4%,” the report added. India’s downward inflation trajectory is supported by lower food prices, strong kharif production, healthy rabi sowing, adequate reservoir levels, and favourable soil moisture. As a result, the RBI has revised its inflation forecast for 2025–26 to 2.0 %, down from 2.6% in October and 4.2% in February. “We forecast inflation for FY26 at 1.8% and for FY27 at 3.4%. With such unprecedented level of downward revisions and further prospects of downward revision looming large, the RBI has kept the door ajar for future rate decisions. However, for now, repo rate at 5.25% will be lower for longer,” SBI Research said. The central bank also adjusted its GDP projections, with real growth for 2025–26 now seen at 7.3%. The first and second quarters of 2026–27 are projected at 6.7% and 6.8% respectively. SBI Research cautioned, however, that external demand could be affected by “ongoing tariff and trade policy uncertainties,” and that “prolonged geopolitical tensions and volatility in international financial markets caused by risk-off sentiments of investors also pose downside risks to the growth outlook.” Despite these headwinds, the report expects GDP growth above 7% in the third and fourth quarters, bringing full-year growth for 2025–26 to 7.6%. Commenting on the policy decision, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra described India’s current economic climate as a “rare goldilocks period,” with strong growth and low inflation. “The economy witnessed robust growth and benign inflation…We approach the new year with hope, vigour and determination to further support the economy and accelerate progress,” he said.

India vs South Africa Live Score, 3rd ODI: The spotlight, as always, will be on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, but the pressure will also be on India’s younger players as the hosts aim to avoid another embarrassing series loss to South Africa in the must-win third and final ODI on Saturday.

A repeat of the Raipur-like collapse would hand South Africa the ODI series as well, coming on the heels of their 2-0 Test series triumph.

Consecutive series defeats are unthinkable for India in the current scenario, especially with reports of a dressing room pulling in different directions.

A win in this rubber could silence the chatter around the team, and for that, Kohli and Rohit will once again need to shoulder the responsibility.

Both have long been masters of the 50-over format and are no strangers to high-pressure situations. Their legacy is built on overcoming challenges — an exhilarating journey spanning the last decade and a half.

Now, standing at a pivotal juncture, Kohli and Rohit will be eager to add another glorious chapter to their storied careers. And it’s not mere ambition.

Kohli has two hundreds and a fifty in his last three innings, while Rohit has a hundred and two fifties in his last four outings. These numbers highlight their touch, class, and hunger even in their late 30s, signaling that they can still rescue the team.

Yet, meaningful contributions from the younger batters will be crucial. Ruturaj Gaikwad provided that support in the last match with his maiden ODI hundred.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, however, is still searching for form as an opener in this series. The talented youngster will be keen to convert his starts into big scores for both his and the team’s sake.

A glaring weakness remains in his batting against left-arm pacers, whether it’s Jayden Seales of the West Indies or Marco Jansen and Nandre Burger in this series.

Jaiswal has been dismissed 30 times by left-armers in his career (9 in Tests, 19 in T20Is, and 2 in ODIs), often while attempting a cut or its variations — a staple in his repertoire outside off-stump.

The team management and Jaiswal cannot ignore this pattern, and work to address it is likely underway. If the vulnerability persists, the selectors may consider alternatives, with Gaikwad already proving himself a reliable opener.

The ACA-VDCA Stadium pitch often favours batters, and India have a strong record here — seven wins in 10 ODIs since 2005, despite a recent defeat to Australia.

India will also weigh whether to rest Washington Sundar and bring in Tilak Varma to strengthen the middle order, which struggled to accelerate in the final stages of the last two matches.

Rishabh Pant is another option, but Tilak offers the dual advantage of being a utility spinner and a sharp fielder.

KL Rahul’s breezy fifties helped India post a par score, but dew played a part in South Africa nearly chasing it down in Ranchi and surpassing it in Raipur.

In this coastal city, humidity could influence conditions under lights, despite a recent dip in temperature due to cyclonic weather. A training session on Friday night should help India gauge conditions and finalize the combination.

Meanwhile, India will hope young pacers Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana tighten their performances to support the impressive Arshdeep Singh.

South Africa will be aiming for a second ODI series win over India on Indian soil, after their 2-1 series loss in 2022-23. A victory here would mark their first-ever ODI series triumph in India.

However, fitness will be a concern. Pacers Nandre Burger and batter Tony de Zorzi both had to leave the field in Raipur and their availability will be closely monitored.

Teams (from):
India: KL Rahul (C/WK), Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rishabh Pant (wk), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Dhruv Jurel.

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (C), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Rubin Hermann, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, Lungi Ngidi, Ryan Rickelton, Prenelan Subrayen.

The UK government has imposed sanctions on a British Sikh businessman and a group linked to him in the first use of its new Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regime aimed at cutting off funding to the pro-Khalistan militant outfit Babbar Khalsa.Gurpreet Singh Rehal, associated with the Panjab Warriors sports investment firm, has been hit with an asset freeze and a director disqualification after being suspected of ties to organisations involved in terrorism in India, the UK Treasury said on Thursday.The Treasury said it believes Rehal is involved in the activities of Babbar Khalsa and Babbar Akali Lehar, including promoting and encouraging the groups, recruiting for them, providing financial services, and supporting their operations, which allegedly include purchasing weapons and other military equipment.“This landmark action shows we are prepared to use every tool at our disposal to choke off funding for terrorism – wherever it occurs and whoever is responsible. The UK stands firmly with peaceful communities against those who promote violence and hatred,” Lucy Rigby, UK’s economic secretary, as cited by PTI. “We will not stand by while terrorists exploit Britain’s financial system,” she added. The sanctions prohibit all UK individuals and entities from handling any funds or assets linked to Rehal or Babbar Akali Lehar, and from providing them with financial services or support. The restrictions also apply to any organisations they own or control, unless permitted by an HM Treasury licence or other approved exemption.“Rehal is also subject to director disqualification sanctions which prohibit him from acting as a director of a company or directly or indirectly taking part in or being concerned in the promotion, formation or management of a company,” the Treasury said, as cited by PTI.The sanctions imposed on Rehal also cover entities linked to him, including his organisations Saving Punjab, Whitehawk Consultations Ltd, and the unincorporated group/association Loha Designs.This week’s action follows close coordination between the Treasury and law enforcement agencies, highlighting what the UK government described as its commitment to safeguarding national security and protecting communities affected by terrorism.Under the Counter-Terrorism (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, HM Treasury has the authority to freeze assets and impose restrictions on individuals and entities suspected of involvement in terrorism, a measure intended to prevent terrorist financing and shield the UK’s financial system from abuse.Breaching these sanctions can result in penalties of up to seven years’ imprisonment on indictment, or civil fines of up to £1 million or 50 per cent of the breach value, whichever is higher.The Treasury said Babbar Khalsa, which also operates under the name Babbar Khalsa International, is a proscribed terrorist organisation, and its assessment classifies Babbar Akali Lehar as an “involved person” under the regulations.“Babbar Khalsa (which also uses the name Babbar Khalsa International) is a proscribed terrorist organisation. HM Treasury assesses Babbar Akali Lehar to be an “involved person” under the regulations,” said the UK government.

MUMBAI: Severe disruption continued across India’s airports on Saturday as widespread IndiGo flight cancellations left thousands stranded, prompting scenes of frustration, tears and protests at terminals in multiple cities. At Mumbai Airport, a foreign passenger was seen climbing atop an IndiGo counter, demanding answers after her flight was cancelled without clarity on alternatives.

Video from the terminal showed her insisting on food and basic assistance, while ground staff attempted to calm her and urged her to step down. Meanwhile, Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport witnessed hours of turmoil through the early morning. Between midnight and 6am, seven arrivals and twelve departures were cancelled, airport officials said, leaving crowds of passengers waiting in long queues with little information. The disruptions come despite the aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), putting its recent Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) order “in abeyance with immediate effect”. The pause follows days of escalating delays and cancellations that have affected IndiGo’s operations nationwide. Among those stranded in Ahmedabad was Mahrishi Jani, who broke down while recounting how the cancellations derailed key plans for him and his team. “I was scheduled to go to Guwahati on a 6.15am flight—this was a connecting flight from Kolkata,” he told ANI. “We were selected for Smart India Hackathon 2025. Around 74,000 ideas were submitted, and nearly 1,400 were chosen. Our centre was North-Eastern Hill University. We were supposed to present there.” Across terminals, frustrated travellers struggled to find alternate options as queues lengthened and help desks were overwhelmed. IndiGo has faced mounting pressure after several days of operational disruptions. The airline has issued public apologies and assured passengers that refunds for cancelled flights are being processed.

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MUMBAI: A close assessment of the draft electoral data across the city’s 227 corporator wards shows a striking pattern: three of the top five wards with the sharpest rise in voters fall in P North — covering Malad and Malwani — while all five wards that have recorded a decline are concentrated in the island city. Overall, there has been a 12.67% rise in the electorate from 2017 to 2025. The male electorate has grown from 50.3 lakh in 2017 to over 55 lakh in 2025, while the female voter count has risen from 41.5 lakh to 48.3 lakh over the same period. The number of voters listed under the ‘others’ category has also increased.

Officials and former corporators say families are steadily moving from the island city to the suburbs due to redevelopment, rising rentals and more affordable housing. Former mayor and corporator Kishori Pednekar (postparty split, with Sena UBT), whose former ward in Lower Parel (No. 199) saw a fall in voter numbers from 57,175 in 2017 to 53,907 in 2025, said the decline is largely due to outdated records being cleaned up. “Many residents had moved to the suburbs but hadn’t struck their names off the rolls here for years. During the new review, those deletions have been corrected. At the same time, many youngsters who turned 18 simply did not register,” Pednekar said.A similar trend was flagged by former BJP corporator Akash Purohit, who previously won No. 221 in C Ward, which also registered a dip in the number of voters. He said several residents from households in areas of south Mumbai, especially congested pockets like Kalbadevi and Chira Bazaar, have moved to newly redeveloped homes outside the traditional island city pockets, reducing the voter base.Political sparring broke out over the P North surge. BJP targeted Congress MLA Aslam Shaikh, alleging the spike was linked to “infiltrators”. Former BJP corporator Vinod Shelar, who contested against Shaikh in the 2024 state polls and lost, said,“Shaikh has been encouraging… Bangladeshis and Rohingyas in the area.”Shaikh attributed the growth to a combination of redevelopment, ward reconfiguration and internal migration. He said that slum clusters in the ward previously represented by Congress corporator Salma Almelkar were redeveloped into formal housing societies in some portions, adding to the voter base. He said that in No. 33, represented earlier by Congress corporator Virendra Choudhary, minor boundary realignments brought additional pockets into the ward, boosting numbers.He said repeated demolition drives in Bharat Nagar, Bandra (East), had pushed several families to relocate to Malad. “Malad has also received a substantial number of project-affected persons (PAPs). This has led to a rise in voter numbers across multiple corporator wards.”Sena’s Samadhan Sarwankar, whose former corporator ward recorded a roughly 4% decline in voters, said some pockets of residents from Mahim, he once represented, were shifted to Malad after being provided accommodation as PAPs. “Similarly, other groups of voters have been permanently relocated to Lower Parel after receiving housing as Project Affected Persons,” he said.

Panaji: Indian Super League (ISL) clubs have appealed to the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to remove clauses from its new Constitution that previously rendered the tender process unworkable and ensure that the “sport is not imperilled by procedural delay.”The AIFF’s 15-year master rights agreement (MRA) with Reliance-subsidiary FSDL ends on Dec 8. Without a new commercial partner in place, there is uncertainty over the top-tier league, leaving clubs without any central revenue which forms a major part of their income.“The uncertainty has caused local sponsors to withdraw or pause commercial commitments, leaving clubs with no viable income whatsoever, despite ongoing obligations,” the clubs, except for East Bengal, wrote in a letter to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey on Friday. “While majority of the clubs have continued to honour salaries and contractual dues to players and staff in good faith, the current position is not merely challenging; it is approaching commercial impossibility and risks rendering ongoing operations untenable.”The clubs are confident that Indian football will find a commercial partner if impeding clauses in the constitution are removed. Should a suitable partner still not be in place, the clubs have asked the AIFF to consider a framework under which they can collectively form a consortium to own/operate the league as majority owners, alongside the federation and aligned commercial/broadcast/private investors.“Such an approach is consistent with global best practices and reflective of the long-term commitment of the clubs to Indian football,” said the clubs.A similar proposal was presented to the AIFF by FSDL earlier this year, with 60% of the equity share being distributed equally among all ISL clubs, 26% to FSDL and the remaining 14% to the governing body. The federation, however, turned down the proposal since it wanted an assured sum annually to run their activities.In its last meeting with Union sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya, East Bengal had made it clear that the club wanted the AIFF to organise the top league.The ISL clubs are in favour of a long-term solution to the crisis, terming a temporary or stop-gap arrangement as “placing a band-aid on a severe injury; it offers momentary relief but does not address the underlying structural issues.”“The clubs have already invested significantly over the years based on long-term projections and development plans. A clear and durable framework will safeguard those investments and provide the basis upon which clubs, private investors, and the federation can work together to fashion an immediate competition structure for this season in the most practical form. Only once a sustainable, long-term commercial vision is secured can short-term arrangements be responsibly considered for the present season,” said the clubs.

The first Test between New Zealand and the West Indies at Hagley Oval in Christchurch ended in a historic draw, with West Indies successfully saving the match despite chasing down a colossal target of 531. West Indies were on the brink of defeat after being bowled out for just 167 in their first innings and reduced to 72/4 in the second. However, thanks to a determined partnership between Justin Greaves (202*) and Kemar Roach (58*), the West Indies batted through 163.3 overs, ending on 457/6. This remarkable effort denied New Zealand their first victory in the series and secured their first points in the World Test Championship 2025-27.

Justin Greaves’ historic double ton anchors West Indies’ fightback in the 1st Test

In a Test match that had all the makings of a defeat, Greaves played a pivotal role in West Indies’ dogged resistance. After early setbacks in their second innings, Greaves teamed up with Shai Hope, who had earlier scored a crucial century. Greaves, unbeaten on 202, faced 388 balls, including 19 boundaries, in what was a career-defining knock. The duo added 196 runs before Hope was dismissed. From there, Greaves and Roach built a formidable partnership, ensuring that West Indies avoided a loss. Their stand of 180 runs off 409 balls became a historic one as it not only saved the match but also kept New Zealand from taking the crucial victory.

Shai Hope, Kemar Roach and Justin Greaves provide the backbone for West Indies’ resilience

Despite the top-order collapse in the fourth innings, the West Indies showcased remarkable resilience. Shai Hope’s 140 in the first innings and his subsequent support to Greaves in the second innings were critical in keeping the chase alive. Roach, playing a never-before-seen role, provided calm and stability at the other end, contributing an invaluable 58* off 233 balls. His resistance not only held the fort but also allowed Greaves to play freely, leading to a remarkable partnership that effectively shut down New Zealand’s hopes of a win. Roach’s performance added to his growing stature as a reliable performer in the longest format of the game.

Also READ: 5 players Chennai Super Kings (CSK) can target in the IPL 2026 mini-auction

New Zealand’s declaring and Jacob Duffy’s early breakthroughs set the stage for a thriller

New Zealand had set the stage for a potential victory after declaring their second innings at 466/8, with a mammoth target of 531 to chase. The hosts had been propelled by a stunning 171 from Rachin Ravindra and a solid 145 from Tom Latham, both of whom were key contributors in setting the huge target. On the bowling front, Jacob Duffy’s five-wicket haul in the first innings, along with Matt Henry’s 3-43, had put the West Indies on the back foot. Despite their excellent bowling effort, New Zealand’s hopes of securing the win were dashed by Greaves’ epic stand with Roach, which marked the first-ever draw for West Indies after a significant target chase.

Here’s how fans reacted: 

Justin Greaves, that is a monumental and historic double century 🙌🏼🫡

— Gaurav Kapur (@gauravkapur) December 6, 2025

Today happens only once in a lifetime and it’s that day for “Justin Greaves”.

Let’s not forget Kemar Roach in this effort👏👏

Also, Shai Hope was remarkable with the bat in both the innings ✅

Exceptional day for @windiescricket #wivnz pic.twitter.com/4skhfByeyQ

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 6, 2025

Great double century by Justin Greaves🔥👌🏾 #NZvWI

— Phelani🇿🇦 (@BabaloLubuzo) December 6, 2025

Justin Greaves just did something incredible.

But remember Kemar Roach, that man was born to block.

The West Indies just batted 163.3 overs to draw the match against New Zeland.

These two almost did 70 on their own.

— Jarrod Kimber (@ajarrodkimber) December 6, 2025

Phenomenal effort by the West Indies. They have shown so much fight during the tour.

— Adam Bell 🇳🇿🇮🇹 (@AdamKerrBell) December 6, 2025

Magnificent Justin Greaves 👏🏻

A double century of the highest quality

Nothing quite like Test cricket 🤩 pic.twitter.com/4X2uKp7TWO

— Werner (@Werries_) December 6, 2025

A double century in the fourth innings of an away Test match!

Remember the name – Justin Greaves. 🙌🏻

— Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) December 6, 2025

West Indies batted 163.3 overs in that innings

It took 3 new balls

When was the last time you saw that in a Test?!

Well done West Indies!!!#NZvWI

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) December 6, 2025

Nine hours. Twenty-four minutes. One unforgettable knock.

Justin Greaves, you’ve given Test cricket a classic. 🫡🔥 pic.twitter.com/wcf3mPcXM4

— Barbados Royals (@BarbadosRoyals) December 6, 2025

Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach pull off a historic draw for West Indies.#NZvWI #cricket #1stTest pic.twitter.com/2a5Avyu3mI

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 6, 2025

Also READ: IPL 2026: Ravichandran Ashwin names uncapped youngster CSK should target in the mini-auction

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a set of specially curated gifts to visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin during his two-day trip to India. The gifts showcased India’s culture, craftsmanship, and heritage.They included a Russian edition of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, GI-tagged fine Assam tea, Kashmiri saffron, and an ornate silver tea set.

Putin was in India for a special edition of the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, a tradition that has continued since 2000. His visit included a joint statement with PM Modi, several trade and business agreements, and other official engagements.

Assam black tea

The finely processed Assam black tea, grown in the Brahmaputra plains, is known for its strong flavour and bright colour. It received the GI tag in 2007 and is valued not only for its taste but also for its cultural significance and health benefits.

Ornate silver tea set

The Murshidabad silver tea set from West Bengal features detailed hand engravings. It represents India’s rich artisanal tradition and also reflects the shared importance of tea culture in both India and Russia.

Srimad Bhagavad Gita (Russian edition)

PM Modi gifted President Putin a Russian copy of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita. Part of the Mahabharata, the text contains Lord Krishna’s teachings to Arjuna on duty, the soul, and spiritual wisdom—guidance that continues to inspire people around the world.

Kashmiri saffron

Kashmiri saffron, known locally as Kong or Zaffran, is one of the costliest spices in the world. Recognised with GI and ODOP tags, it is valued for its deep colour, aroma, and flavour. Hand-harvested in Kashmir’s highlands, this “red gold” supports local farmers and carries enormous cultural significance.

Handcrafted silver horse

The Prime Minister also gifted a handcrafted silver horse from Maharashtra, known for its detailed artistry and fine metalwork. In both India and Russia, the horse symbolizes dignity and valour. Its forward-moving stance represents the strong and steadily progressing partnership between the two countries.

Putin’s first India visit since 2021

Russian President Putin concluded his two-day visit on Friday with a special dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This was his first visit to India after December 2021 and his first since the Ukraine war began in 2022. During the trip, he attended the 23rd annual India–Russia summit in New Delhi.