The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a one-time budgetary support of up to Rs. 10,000 crore to help stabilise Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices for scheduled Indian airlines, offering relief to a sector grappling with elevated fuel costs amid global geopolitical tensions.

The government said the financial support will be provided to oil marketing companies (OMCs) to offset under-recoveries arising from supplying aviation fuel at moderated rates. The move is aimed at reducing the impact of sharp fuel price fluctuations on airlines and ensuring continuity of air services.

Why the government approved the fund

The decision comes as aviation fuel prices remain under pressure due to the ongoing crisis in West Asia, which has pushed up global energy costs. Fuel is one of the largest operating expenses for airlines and can account for up to 40% of total operating costs.

According to the government, the fund is intended to help maintain stable aviation operations and protect domestic and international air connectivity from disruptions caused by fuel price volatility.

How the fund is expected to help airlines and passengers

By cushioning the impact of rising fuel prices, the stabilisation mechanism is expected to ease financial pressure on airlines and limit the extent of fare increases that could otherwise be passed on to passengers. The support will be routed through OMCs, which have been bearing the burden of moderated fuel pricing.

Reports indicate that the fund has been designed as a stabilisation mechanism that can help the aviation sector manage periods of extreme fuel price volatility triggered by international crises.

Part of broader Cabinet decisions

The ATF Price Stabilisation Fund was among several key decisions approved by the Cabinet on Wednesday as part of a wider package covering aviation, transport and infrastructure initiatives.

The government said the measure is aimed at safeguarding the aviation ecosystem and ensuring that air services remain sustainable despite global market uncertainties.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) is grappling with a series of political and organisational challenges following its defeat in the West Bengal Assembly election, increasing pressure on party chief Mamata Banerjee and the leadership.

The setback has triggered intense political activity within the party, with questions emerging over leadership, organisational control and the future direction of the TMC as it seeks to recover from the loss.

Leadership dispute fuels uncertainty

The party’s troubles have been compounded by a controversy involving alleged forged signatures and competing claims over leadership positions within the legislature party. The dispute has highlighted divisions among lawmakers and added to concerns about maintaining unity within the organisation.

Political observers view the developments as one of the most significant internal challenges faced by the party in recent years.

Rebel claims add to pressure

The situation escalated after expelled leader Ritabrata Banerjee claimed recognition for a rebel faction and asserted that his group represented the “real” opposition within the Assembly. The claims have intensified speculation about divisions within the party and raised concerns about possible defections.

TMC leaders, however, have continued to maintain that the party remains united despite the ongoing controversy.

Mamata Banerjee calls it a ‘do or die’ fight

Addressing the crisis, Mamata Banerjee described the situation as a “do or die” battle for the party and accused opponents of attempting to weaken the Trinamool Congress.

The leadership has also undertaken organisational changes in an effort to strengthen the party structure. As part of the exercise, several committees and frontal organisations have been dissolved for restructuring.

Road ahead for TMC

With internal disputes and rebellion claims dominating political discussions, the coming weeks are expected to be crucial for the Trinamool Congress. The party leadership faces the challenge of maintaining unity while rebuilding its organisation following the electoral setback.

How effectively the TMC addresses these issues could play a significant role in shaping its future political strategy in West Bengal.

A devastating fire at a restaurant building in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area claimed the lives of more than 20 people on Wednesday, triggering a large-scale rescue operation by emergency services. Authorities said dozens of people were trapped inside the multi-storey structure when the blaze broke out during the morning hours.

According to fire officials, an emergency call was received at around 9:45 am, following which multiple fire tenders and rescue teams were rushed to the spot. Firefighters battled thick smoke and flames while carrying out evacuation efforts from different parts of the building.

Rescue operation saves dozens

Officials said 37 people were rescued and taken to hospitals through emergency ambulance services. Several victims reportedly suffered injuries, while the death toll continued to be assessed as rescue and search operations progressed.

The building housed a restaurant on the ground floor, and preliminary information suggests the fire may have originated there. However, authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the blaze.

Investigation underway

Witnesses described scenes of panic as smoke rapidly spread through the building. Some occupants reportedly jumped from upper floors in attempts to escape the flames while local residents assisted rescue efforts before emergency teams arrived.

Officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire and examine whether safety norms were being followed at the premises. The identities of several victims were still being verified at the time of reporting.

The incident is among the deadliest fire tragedies reported in the national capital in recent years and has once again raised concerns about fire safety compliance in commercial establishments.