Inspector Laxman Kewat, a decorated officer with six gallantry medals, played a key role in the Kanker encounter, the most lethal operation against Maoists in Bastar. In an interview with TOI, Kewat, known as the ‘encounter mastermind’, shared details of the operation that led to the death of 29 Maoists. The encounter was meticulously planned, leveraging intelligence and a stealthy approach by a 200-strong team of BSF and DRG personnel. Despite the challenging terrain and the Maoists’ familiarity with the jungle, Kewat’s forces managed to get within 300 meters of the enemy camp. The operation escalated when the Maoists were alerted, leading to an intense firefight. Kewat, who has stopped counting individual kills, remains focused on capturing key Maoist figures. His experience and leadership were pivotal in the success of the operation.

The nearest Indonesian international airport to a volcano that erupted five times in recent days has been ordered closed for 24 hours due to volcanic ash, the transport ministry said Thursday. Sam Ratulangi International Airport in the city of Manado, located more than 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Mount Ruang, was forced to close until Thursday evening “due to the spread of volcanic ash which could endanger flight safety,” Ambar Suryoko, head of the Manado region airport authority office, said in a statement.

Nestle Sugar Controversy: The revelation was made when samples of the company’s baby food products sold in Asia, Africa and Latin America were sent to a Belgian laboratory for testing.