New Delhi

India's state-run fuel companies have increased petrol and diesel prices for the fourth time in 10 days, citing strains on supply due to the Middle East war. Automobile fuel prices have risen by approximately five percent since the conflict began, impacting India's significant reliance on crude oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz.

Southern India is experiencing a severe heatwave, with at least 16 deaths attributed to heatstroke in the state of Telangana. Temperatures have soared above 45°C in several cities, prompting officials to issue warnings and advise vulnerable populations to stay indoors. The intensity of the heat has been described as unprecedented, with health experts highlighting the risks of dehydration and organ failure.

India's power producers have achieved a record in electricity generation as the nation experiences an intense heatwave, leading to a surge in power demand. The Ministry of Power reported that the country's peak power demand of 270.82 gigawatts was successfully met on Thursday, marking a new all-time high. This surge is attributed to increased usage of cooling appliances during the extreme temperatures.

A severe heatwave is gripping northern India, causing roads and markets to empty during the day and prompting some farmers to shift to nighttime work to escape scorching temperatures. The India Meteorological Department forecasts maximum temperatures around 45 degrees Celsius in New Delhi, with conditions expected to persist and remain above seasonal averages across northern regions. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors during peak heat and have established temporary cooling zones for relief.

The BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting in New Delhi, chaired by India, demonstrated resilience despite sharp divisions among member nations, particularly concerning the West Asia conflict. While a traditional joint declaration was not issued, ministers adopted a Chair's Statement and Outcome Document, reflecting common positions on most issues, showcasing India's diplomatic approach of focusing on convergence.