DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Sun, 04 Jan 2026 02:46:01 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/national/offensive-remark-on-women-from-bihar-sparks-political-storm-mla-announces-rs-10-lakh-reward-656896.html Patna Jan 3 An offensive remark allegedly made by Girdhari Lal Sahu husband of Uttarakhand Minister Rekha Arya regarding women from Bihar has triggered a major political uproar in the eastern state In a viral video Sahu is purportedly heard saying that women from Bihar are easily available for marriage for Rs 20000â25000 a statement that has drawn sharp condemnation across political linesFollowing the circulation of the video political activity intensified in Bihar IP Gupta MLA from Saharsa and president of the Indian Inclusive Party announced a reward of Rs 10 lakh for anyone who apprehends Girdhari Lal Sahu if he enters BiharHis announcement further escalated the controversyLeaders from both the ruling alliance and the opposition strongly condemned the remarkPurnea MP Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav reacted sharply expressing outrage over the commentHe said âThe tongues of such people should be cut off and thrown away These people are worthless This is the real character of BJP leaders They do not want to give respect to anyone outside their family and partyâEven leaders of the NDA in Bihar distanced themselves from the remarkBihar Minister Dilip Jaiswal also strongly criticised Girdhari Lal Sahuâs commentHe said âJust because he is a ministerâs husband does that mean he can say anything This statement is completely wrong and we condemn it unequivocallyâUnion MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi also condemned the remark saying that putting a price on a womanâs marriage is shameful and unacceptable and demanded that the Uttarakhand BJP government take strict action in the matterLeader of the Opposition Tejashwi Prasad Yadav who is currently abroad on a family vacation reacted via social media on Friday targeting the BJP and stating that such a mindset reflects the true thinking of BJP leaders towards women and people from BiharThe controversy has now taken on a crossstate political dimension with growing pressure on the Uttarakhand government to respond decisivelyThe incident has reignited the debate on womenâs dignity responsible speech and political accountability especially by those associated with people holding public office IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/offensive-remark-on-women-from-bihar-sparks-political-storm-mla-announces-rs-10-lakh-reward-656896.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/for-establishing-ram-rajya-one-will-have-to-behave-like-lord-ram-ami-ganatra-656897.html New Delhi 3 Jan The second day of Delhi Shabdostav 2026 being organised at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium witnessed a wideranging discussion including one centred around âhistory of Hinduismâ Several writers as well as historians presented their views on Indian literature and cultureAmi Ganatra a management professional and also noted writer shared her views on the concept of âRam Rajyaâ and elaborated on what it would entail for societyâIf the society wants to establish Ram Rajya then one should start acting and behaving like Lord Ramâ she saidShe also flayed the critics and doubters of Lord Ram as an imaginary figure and said that his life serves as a guiding principle for every person even todayâLord Ram is a historical figure for us He has always been there upholding and strengthening the values for societyâ he remarkedâI donât think that anyone has ever raised questions on Lord Ramâs existence till the countryâs Independence The questions whenever raised were merely for scoring political points The courts also demanded testimonials regarding Lordâs existence This shows the extent of the Hindu communityâs tolerance that they provided the courts with evidenceâ she elaboratedRSS Delhi general secretary Anil Gupta another prominent guest on the panel discussion said that earlier it was difficult for people to understand religion and culture but in the present times it has been simplifiedâIt has become easy even for the âGenZâ to comprehend Today the youth are actively taking part in religious programs There used to be a time when bhajan singers used to be in the age group of 4050 but today they are much younger in the bracket of 2025 years of ageâ he addedAnil Gupta further said that the current generation is doing a tremendous job realising the importance of bhajan and religion IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/for-establishing-ram-rajya-one-will-have-to-behave-like-lord-ram-ami-ganatra-656897.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/army-day-parade-in-jaipur-police-on-high-alert-drone-and-kite-flying-banned-on-mahal-road-656899.html Jaipur Jan 3 With the Army Day Parade being held in Jaipur for the first time the police administration has gone on high alert The Police Commissionerate has issued detailed guidelines to strengthen security arrangements during the parade rehearsals and the main event officials said on SaturdayThe Army Day Parade will be organised on the route from NRI Circle to Mahal Road via the Bombay HospitalMembers of the public can witness the parade on January 9 11 13 and 15 between 6 am and 12 noonFor the convenience of spectators seating arrangements have been made near the Akshaya Patra TempleCitizens are advised to approach the venue via Mahaveer Marg and Kendriya Vihar Marg from the DMart Circle side to avoid traffic inconvenienceFor security reasons flying drones has been completely prohibited within a fivekilometre radius of the Mahal RoadIn addition kite flying has also been banned during the rehearsal and Parade periodPolice officials said that drones and kites pose a potential threat to Army aircraft and parade operations and the ban has been imposed to prevent accidents or security breachesThe police have appealed to citizens not only to refrain from flying drones and kites themselves but also to discourage others from doing soAs part of enhanced security measures residents living near the parade route including tenants shopkeepers factory owners and housing societies have been instructed to ensure mandatory police verification of employees and tenantsCitizens have been advised not to rent out houses shops or industrial premises without prior police verificationHousing societies and residential colonies have been asked to extend full cooperation to the police during doortodoor verification and surveysThe police administration has urged the public to immediately inform the police if any suspicious person vehicle or activity is noticedPeople have also been instructed not to rent vehicles to unknown individuals and residents of highrise buildings have been asked to share guest information with the policeCalling the event a moment of pride for Jaipur the police said that public cooperation is crucial for the success and security of the Army Day ParadeCitizens can report any suspicious activity the police added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/army-day-parade-in-jaipur-police-on-high-alert-drone-and-kite-flying-banned-on-mahal-road-656899.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-two-juvenile-inmates-escape-from-detention-centre-in-kota-656900.html Jaipur Jan 3 Two juvenile inmates escaped from the Kota Juvenile Detention Centre in Rajasthan on Saturday after allegedly tricking a guard on the pretext of making tea the police said The incident occurred at around 730 am at the detention centre located in Nayagaon According to preliminary information the guard on duty allowed the two juveniles to step out of their barracks to prepare teaTaking advantage of the situation the minors misled the guard and fled the premisesThe escape came to light shortly thereafter leaving the guard in a distressed condition sources saidOne of the escaped juveniles is 16yearold while the other is 17 Both were lodged at the detention centre in connection with separate criminal casesFollowing the incident personnel from RK Puram police station reached the spot registered a case and launched a search operation CCTV footage from the detention centre and surrounding areas is being scanned to trace the juveniles while questioning of the detention centre staff is also underwayDeputy Superintendent of Police Manish Sharma said that special police teams have been formed to locate the escaped juvenilesHe said the 16yearold was lodged in connection with a knifepoint robbery case registered at Udyog Nagar police station while the 17yearold was detained in a child kidnapping case registered at Gumanpura police stationPolice officials said search operations are ongoing and efforts are being made to apprehend the juveniles at the earliest An investigation has also been initiated to ascertain lapses or negligence that led to the escapeSources citing officials said that searches are likely to be intensified to trace the juvenilesEscapes from detention centres continue to pose a challenge for authorities exposing gaps in supervision and security arrangementsSuch incidents divert policing resources trigger largescale manhunts and raise public safety concerns while prompting questions over accountability and preparedness within custodial institutions IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-two-juvenile-inmates-escape-from-detention-centre-in-kota-656900.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/justice-a-muhamed-mustaque-appointed-as-chief-justice-of-sikkim-hc-656901.html New Delhi Jan 3 The Centre on Saturday cleared the appointment of Kerala High Court judge Justice A Muhamed Mustaque as the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court In a post on social media platform âXâ Union Minister of State IC for Law amp Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal announced that the President in exercise of the powers conferred by the Constitution of India and in consultation with the Chief Justice of India CJI was pleased to appoint Justice Muhamed Mustaque Ayumantakath Judge of the Kerala High Court as the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office The appointment comes in line with the recommendation of the CJI Surya Kantled Supreme Court Collegium which had earlier proposed the elevation of Justice A Muhamed Mustaque of the Kerala High Court as the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court Born on June 1 1967 Justice Muhamed Mustaque is a native of Thana in Kannur district of Kerala He obtained his law degree from VB College of Law Udupi and later completed his LLM in Labour Law from MG University He enrolled as an advocate on October 1 1989 and practised for seven years before various courts and statutory authorities in Kannur During his career at the Bar he practised as a litigation lawyer and arbitrator and also served as a mediator at the Kerala Mediation Centre His areas of practice included civil commercial constitutional administrative service and criminal law besides telecommunication intellectual property and information technology laws He also served as a faculty member for mediation training with the Indian Institute of Arbitration and Mediation IIAM and was a panel arbitrator with ICADR and IIAM Justice Muhamed Mustaque was sworn in as an Additional Judge of the Kerala High Court on January 23 2014 and was appointed as a Permanent Judge with effect from March 10 2016 He has also served as the Acting Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court Meanwhile the Centre on Thursday said that the President in exercise of powers under Article 222 of the Constitution has transferred Soumen Sen Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court to serve as the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court following the retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice Nitin Madhukar Jamdar on January 9 2026 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/justice-a-muhamed-mustaque-appointed-as-chief-justice-of-sikkim-hc-656901.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nfr-achieves-major-milestone-with-first-full-rake-freight-loading-in-meghalaya-656902.html Guwahati Jan 3 The Northeast Frontier Railway NFR has achieved a significant milestone in freight operations with the successful completion of the firstever loading of a full freight rake at Mendipathar railway station in Meghalaya officials said on Saturday NFRs Chief Public Relations Officer CPRO Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that the coal loading operation commenced on December 28 from Mendipathar to Jalalgarh in Purnia district of Bihar as a full rake consisting of 42 body covered wagons was loaded within eight hours and 30 minutes demonstrating efficient planning coordinated teamwork and operational readiness of railway staff This landmark achievement marks the first ever railway freight loadings for the state of Meghalaya CPRO Sharma added He said that Mendipathar being one and the only station in Meghalaya marked its existence in the railway freight map with the first freight unloading on February 4 last year Since then freight unloading operations at the station Mendipathar have shown steady growth with a total of 29 minirakes and 6 full rakes equivalent to 205 full rakes unloaded between February and December 2025 With commencement of freight loading it will signify the operational preparedness of Mendipathar station to handle largescale freight traffic in a complete manner CPRO Sharma added Freight loading and unloading operations at Mendipathar is expected to provide a major boost to the local economy of Meghalaya by facilitating the outward and inward movement of goods in an easy reliable and economical manner particularly for hilly and otherwise not easily accessible areas These operations will support regional industries improve market access for commodities originating in the region and enable costeffective transportation of essential goods the CPRO said The NFR headquartered at Maligaon near Guwahati operates across the Northeastern states as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of Bihar IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nfr-achieves-major-milestone-with-first-full-rake-freight-loading-in-meghalaya-656902.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/worker-is-our-ambassador-officers-must-act-on-their-call-vasundhara-raje-656903.html Jaipur Jan 3 Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje asserted that the Bharatiya Janata Party is incomplete without its workers and emphasised the need to empower them at every level She said that booth presidents mandal presidents and district presidents are the partyâs true ambassadors and public work should be carried out with their involvement and consentAddressing the BJP State Organisational workshop held at the Constitution Club Raje said that officers must answer calls from party workers and ensure work is completed at the first instance âIf officers fail to do so they should be prepared to face the consequencesâ she warned She stated that the voice of a BJP worker is the voice of the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister and that neglect of workers would not be tolerated under any circumstancesHighlighting the partyâs growth Raje said that there was a time when the Congress dominated the country but today the BJP is visible across Indiaâan achievement made possible by the tireless dedication and sacrifices of party workers âThe workers worked day and night without caring for hunger or thirst with only one goalâto make the lotus bloomâ she saidThe former Chief Minister also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on India becoming the worldâs fourthlargest economy and Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on completing two years in office On the occasion she also recited a couplet reflecting the spirit of service âJust wipe the tears from a crying face become a support for someone helpless Do not search elsewhere for Godâ He resides on this very earth in the act of healing someoneâs woundsâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/worker-is-our-ambassador-officers-must-act-on-their-call-vasundhara-raje-656903.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-15-931-candidates-in-fray-for-elections-to-29-municipal-bodies-656904.html Mumbai Jan 3 A record 15931 candidates for 2869 seats in 893 electoral panels are in the fray for the elections to the 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra slated for January 15 According to the State Election Commission SEC a total of 33427 nominations were received of which 24771 were declared valid after scrutiny while 8840 withdrew their nominations on January 2 which was the last date for nominations Ultimately 15931 candidates are contesting the electionsThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation BMC remains the largest battlefield with 227 seats and 1700 final candidates Other major hubs like Pune and Nashik also show high levels of competition The smallest contest by volume will take place in Ichalkaranji which has 65 seats and 230 final candidates while Panvel saw the lowest number of withdrawals at just 88The data reveals a significant trend in candidate withdrawals Of the 24771 candidates whose applications were found valid more than 35 per cent 8840 individuals chose to pull out of the political fight due to internal party negotiations or tactical alliances formed before the final deadlineWith the final lists now established the 893 electoral panels across the state are moving into the active campaigning phase The state gears up for a highstakes election that will determine the local governance for Maharashtras most critical urban centresBased on the SEC data across all 29 corporations there are 2869 seats and 15931 final candidates resulting in an overall average of 555 candidates per seat Cities with a higher average candidates per seat indicate a more fractured political landscape or a higher number of independent challengers Mumbai BMC and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar lead the state in competition intensity with more than seven candidates vying for every single seat Ichalkaranji and Dhule represent the lower end of the spectrum with an average of nearly 35 candidates per seat suggesting more consolidated or direct contests between major blocsPune stands out as a highstakes battleground with significant strategic withdrawals About 3061 nominations were filed but after scrutiny 2134 were found valid However a massive 968 candidates withdrew their names Despite the withdrawals Pune still maintains a high ratio of 707 candidates per seatThe SEC data further shows that Nomination Withdrawal is a major factor in shaping the final battlefield Nashik saw the highest number of withdrawals 661 followed by Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar 552 and Solapur 532 This usually points to heavy rebel management by major political parties Panvel has the least crowded ballot in the state with only 327 candidates per seat suggesting a very focused contest between two primary sides IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-15-931-candidates-in-fray-for-elections-to-29-municipal-bodies-656904.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sadanand-date-takes-over-as-maharashtra-dgp-656905.html Mumbai Jan 3 Sadanand Date an IPS officer from the 1990 batch on Saturday took over the Maharashtra Director General of Police from the incumbent Rashmi Shukla whose tenure concluded on January 3 Date will have been appointed to the post for two years irrespective of his retirement date He will turn 60 in December next year âThe Maharashtra Police Force will become even more capable with his leadership and experienceâ said the DGP office in a post on XThe state government on December 31 had issued an order announcing the appointment of Date who is a former National Investigation Agency NIA director general as Maharashtraâs director general of police DGP on a twoyear termAccording to the government order Date has been appointed to the post for two years irrespective of his retirement dateDate was the chief of the Maharashtra AntiTerrorism Squad ATS until March 2024 when he moved to New Delhi to lead NIA Indiaâs antiterrorism agencyHe was repatriated back to Maharashtra two weeks ago at the request of the state government which wanted to appoint him as the stateâs DGPDate is widely hailed as one of the heroes of the 2611 Mumbai terror attacks On November 26 2008 during the Mumbai terror attacks Date was serving as the Additional Commissioner of Police Central Region 2008He had led a police team that pinned down LashkareTaiba terrorists Ajmal Kasab and Abu Ismail on the rooftop of Cama Hospital and despite being severely injured by grenade splinters he continued to engage the terroristsHe was later honoured with the Presidents Police Medal for GallantryDate had served in the Maharashtra AntiTerrorism Squad ATS and was the first Commissioner of Police for MiraBhayandar VasaiVirarHe also served the Mumbai Police as Joint Commissioner of Police Law and Order and Crime DIG in the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI and IG Operations in the Central Reserve Police Force CRPFDate who holds a doctorate in Economic Offences from Pune University takes over as the state DGP when local body elections are being heldBorn into a humble household Date spent his childhood delivering newspapers to make ends meetAccording to media reports his mother worked as a domestic helper A bright student he cleared the UPSC exam and joined the IPS He went on to specialise in economic and organised crime earning a doctorate in economic offences from Pune University IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sadanand-date-takes-over-as-maharashtra-dgp-656905.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-dang-farmers-migrate-from-traditional-to-modern-farming-incomes-rise-656906.html Gandhinagar Jan 3 A transitional shift in agricultural practices from traditional farming to modern farming is visible across the spectrum today as farmers are increasingly cutting their reliance on the conventional means and adopting sustainable and cuttingedge techniques for higher productivity as well as better financial security For bringing this change they are not hesitant to bring a turnaround in the way they pursue farmingIn Gujaratâs Dang district farmers have made a conscious choice of shifting from growing conventional crops to incomeboosting produce And this has been augmented by monetary support from the state administrationJignesh Bhoi a tribal youth from the Dang district is in the spotlight for picking modern farming techniques over traditional farming methodsBeing a school dropout he took advantage of the government schemes to start modern strawberry cultivation and today he is earning a handsome income His quick success has also spurred other farmers in the village to adopt this route and turn to strawberry cultivation with the administrationâs supportIn the Dang district surrounded by mountains traditional crops like finger millet sorghum barnyard millet and rice have been cultivated for years But now the farmers are shifting towards modern farmingJignesh Bhoi a resident of the remote village of Motamalunga in the Dang district was among the first ones to experiment with modern practices and achieve successHe deserves the credit for bringing this significant change to the village He first contacted the horticulture officer learned about government subsidy schemes and then started cultivating strawberriesFor the past four to five years he has been cultivating strawberries tomatoes and white musli using modern methods Initially he cultivated a small plot but today he manages a plantation on two acres of land from which he earns earning annual income running in lakhsHe says that the government is providing a 75 per cent subsidy on plants 75 per cent on mulching paper and 75 per cent on drip irrigation for strawberry cultivationFor marketing his strawberries he sends his produce to local markets in Ahwa and Saputara and also to wholesale markets in Ahmedabad Vadodara Surat and Rajkot IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-dang-farmers-migrate-from-traditional-to-modern-farming-incomes-rise-656906.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-l-g-unveils-poster-of-anti-drug-abuse-film-the-last-dose-656908.html Jammu Jan 3 Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday unveiled the poster of an awareness film titled âThe Last Doseâ on drug abuse at Lok Bhawan The film has been produced by Khwaish Gupta ProductionsA Lok Bhawan press communique said the Lt Governor congratulated the entire team and conveyed his best wishes to themKhwaish Gupta Founder of Khwaish Gupta Productions Shivdeep Gupta and Priya Gupta Producers of the film along with other team members were present at the unveiling ceremonyEarlier in the day Divisional Commissioner Kashmir highlighted drug abuse as a major challenge in Jammu and KashmirSpeaking to reporters in Srinagar the Divisional Commissioner described drug addiction as a grave social issue facing JampK todayHe said the problem has intensified rapidly multiplying three times in the last three and a half years which is alarmingThe Divisional Commissioner said the government is expanding its antidrug awareness campaign by involving all stakeholders including religious leadersA very big awareness campaign is going on in JampK and the Chief Secretary is personally monitoring it he saidHe added that extensive programmes are being organised by the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences IMHANS where counsellors are being trained across health and educational institutionsFiveday training sessions are being held to build a strong network for early intervention and preventionHe said all sections of society are joining the effort and religious leaders of Srinagar are being involved to inform people about the menaceHelpline numbers of IMHANS are being widely circulated to assist those seeking helpThe government Psychiatric Diseases Hospital in Srinagar has two components a 100bedded Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences IMHANS at Rainawari and a 30bedded Community General Hospital Unit within SMHS premisesThe hospital provides diagnostic services including routine haematology biochemistry serum electrolytes serology EEG and ECT IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-l-g-unveils-poster-of-anti-drug-abuse-film-the-last-dose-656908.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-administrative-team-attacked-during-land-survey-in-west-champaran-5-injured-656909.html Patna Jan 3 A violent attack on an administrative team during a land dispute in Dubaulia village under the Lauriya police station area in West Champaran district has created panic in the region Five people including Lauriya Station House Officer SHO Ramesh Kumar Sharma and Circle Officer CO Nitesh Kumar Seth were injured in the incidentAll the injured have been admitted to a nearby health centre for treatmentAccording to official sources the incident is linked to Case No 1092025â26 which involves a land dispute between Manoj Jaiswal and Banshraj Ram over approximately two acres of landActing on the orders of the Land Reforms Deputy Collector LRDC an administrative team reached Dubaulia village on Saturday to conduct a land surveyDuring the survey process members of one party to the dispute began protesting which soon escalated into violenceIt is alleged that the attackers assaulted the administrative team with sticks and other weapons resulting in injuries to several officers and personnelIn the course of the violence a house was also set on fire by the miscreantsAs the situation deteriorated rapidly the administrative team was forced to withdraw from the spot without completing the surveyNotably a team that had arrived to survey the same land on December 17 had also faced resistance though the situation remained under control at that timeThe latest incident however has raised serious concerns over law and order and administrative functioning in the areaFollowing the attack fear prevails in the village and surrounding areasPolice deployment has been increased and senior administrative officials are closely monitoring the situationThe administration has assured that strict legal action will be taken against those responsibleThe process of registering an FIR has been initiated and efforts are underway to identify and arrest the accused involved in the attack IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-administrative-team-attacked-during-land-survey-in-west-champaran-5-injured-656909.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-orders-free-packed-sugar-for-65-883-antyodaya-families-656911.html New Delhi Jan 3 Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has approved the free distribution of branded sugar packs to all beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana AAY an official said on Saturday The decision was taken by CM Guptachaired Delhi Cabinet meetingIt is aimed to serve as a New Year gift from the Chief Minister for the poor and marginalised sections the official said in a statementThe scheme will be implemented from January 2026 to March 2027 covering a total period of 15 months ensuring sustained support and enhanced food security for the most vulnerable sectionsSharing details of the decision Chief Minister Gupta said that under this initiative all AAY beneficiaries in Delhi will be provided one kilogram of sugar per month free of cost in properly branded and standardised packetsThis initiative marks another concrete step in the Delhi governments propoor policies ensuring both food security and access to quality suppliesAt present sugar is distributed in loose form through fair price shops which often leads to issues such as dust moisture contamination and short weighingThe shift to one kg packaged and branded packets will ensure improved hygiene safe storage ease of handling and accurate measurementAs per official estimates 65883 AAY families in Delhi will benefit from the scheme with each eligible household receiving one kg of sugar per monthUntil the finalisation and approval of a new tender for branded packaging distribution will continue under the existing system to ensure uninterrupted supply to beneficiariesChief Minister Gupta said that the Delhi government is working in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who has consistently placed the welfare of the poor at the centre of governanceShe added that the Delhi government remains committed to translating this vision into tangible outcomes through sustained efforts for the upliftment of the poor and disadvantagedThe Chief Minister said that this commitment is reflected in initiatives such as affordable and nutritious meals through Atal Canteens housing for economically weaker families free ration and accessible healthcare servicesThe Delhi government firmly believes that no needy citizen should be deprived of basic necessities and essential public services IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-orders-free-packed-sugar-for-65-883-antyodaya-families-656911.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mos-harsh-malhotra-holds-public-hearing-at-delhi-bjp-office-656912.html New Delhi Jan 3 Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra on Saturday held a public hearing at the Delhi BJP State Office to strengthen public service and direct public interaction Malhotra listened to the problems of citizens who had come from various parts of the capital making sincere efforts to ensure their speedy resolution said a Delhi BJP statementOn this occasion Malhotra stated that the core foundation of the Bharatiya Janata Partyâs organisation is service and dedicationHe emphasised that the BJP is not limited to politics but is an organisation that works continuously to address the problems of every section of societyâService is the foremost duty of the BJP organisation and with this resolve we remain among the people and work towards resolving their issuesâ he saidAccording to the Delhi BJP Cooperation Cell a total of 38 different grievances were heard during todayâs public hearingA large number of people raised issues related to electricity supply water shortage sewer blockages damaged roads poor sanitation conditions delays in social security pensions availability of health services ration cards and other civic amenitiesBy placing their longpending problems directly before a public representative citizens expressed hope for early resolution said a BJP leaderListening attentively to each individual Malhotra immediately coordinated with officials of the concerned departments and in several cases initiated the resolution process on the spotHe instructed officials to register the complaints received during the public hearing on a priority basis and ensure their disposal in a timebound mannerMatters that could not be resolved immediately were forwarded in writing to the concerned departments with directions for prompt actionMalhotra stated that resolving the problems of the common people is not merely an administrative responsibility but the very essence of public serviceHe clarified that both the BJP government and the organisation are fully committed to the public and through programmes like public hearings common citizens are being provided an opportunity to convey their concerns directly to the leadershipThe public hearing is organised every week by the Delhi BJP Cooperation Cell and Saturdayâs hearing was conducted by Cell Head Gulshan Virmani IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mos-harsh-malhotra-holds-public-hearing-at-delhi-bjp-office-656912.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/workers-soul-of-bjp-respect-for-them-paramount-madan-rathore-656915.html Jaipur Jan 3 Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Rathore on Saturday described party workers as the âsoulâ of the BJP asserting that respect for them is paramount as the organisation is built by its workers Speaking to the media after a statelevel organisational workshop at the Constitution Club in Jaipur Rathore said the primary objective of the event was to connect party workers with values ideals and the spirit of public service rather than political manoeuvringHe said detailed deliberations were held on various subjects including family management which he described as the foundation of an ideal societyRathore emphasised that the BJPâs politics are rooted in service with every member entering public life as a servant of the people to dedicate their lives to public welfareHe stressed the need for restraint balance and mutual coordination within the organisation urging workers to avoid unnecessary disputes over trivial issues and work with a positive mindsetHe also called on party workers to foster restraint compassion and dialogue among the public seeking solutions through conversation wherever bitterness existsHe said safeguarding nationalism national unity and democratic values is a collective responsibility and the BJPâs politics should be guided by economic social and cultural valuesRathore advocated adopting a Gandhian approach respect for all religions and the spirit of âSarve Bhavantu SukhinahâHe urged citizens to take pride in the nationâs heritage history and ancestors while discarding any colonial mindset and moving forward with independent thinkingRathore said it is the responsibility of every citizen and party worker to instil a sense of duty in society and work towards achieving a Developed India by 2047He clarified that the workshop was organised solely to educate workers about public service organisational discipline and life valuesThe workshop was jointly inaugurated by BJP National General Secretary Organisation BL Santosh Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and State President Madan RathoreThe inaugural session was addressed by Chief Minister Sharma Rathore and SantoshThe event was attended by BJP National Vice President and former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje National Joint General Secretary Organisation Shiv Prakash BJP National Secretary Dr Alka Gurjar Chairman of Rajasthan Finance Commission Arun Chaturvedi former BJP State Presidents Satish Poonia and Ashok Parnami General Secretary Bhupendra Saini Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore along with several other party officebearers and workersRathore expressed gratitude to the workers for their patience dedication discipline and active participation IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/workers-soul-of-bjp-respect-for-them-paramount-madan-rathore-656915.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/magh-mela-opens-grandly-in-prayagraj-amid-tight-security-and-devotion-656916.html Prayagraj Jan 3 The countryâs largest annual spiritual and cultural congregation Magh Mela 2026 commenced on Saturday at Prayagraj with the auspicious Paush Purnima bathing festival From the early hours of dawn an overwhelming wave of faith was witnessed at the Sangam and other ghats as lakhs of devotees gathered to take the holy dip Despite severe cold conditions the enthusiasm of pilgrims remained undiminished By 700 PM more than 31 million devotees had performed the ritual bath at the SangamOn the occasion of Paush Purnima devotees continued bathing throughout the day at the confluence of the Ganga Yamuna and the invisible Saraswati rivers as well as at various other ghatsPilgrims from across the country described the experience as deeply divine Nisha who travelled from Rewari in Haryana said that taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Triveni had spiritually fulfilled her life She also praised the governmentâs arrangements for smooth movement and safe bathingSimilarly Kalpana Tomar from Sehore Madhya Pradesh said that her longcherished wish of bathing at the Triveni which remained unfulfilled during the Mahakumbh was finally realised this time She appreciated the cleanliness and efficient management of the fairSaints and seers from various Sanatan traditions also participated in the first holy dip of the Magh Mela adding to the spiritual grandeur of the occasionWith the start of the Magh Mela the entire religious area resonated with an atmosphere of celebration and devotion According to officials more than 22 million devotees had completed the sacred bath by 500 PM They also informed that the flow of pilgrims was continuingExtensive security measures were put in place following the directions of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Over 1500 CCTV cameras have been installed across the city and the mela area with roundtheclock monitoring from a centralised command centre officials said Modern equipment public address systems watchtowers and active water police patrols ensured effective crowd management and safety at the ghatsThe traditional Kalpavas observed every year during the month of Magh on the banks of the holy Ganga also began with the first bathing festival More than 400000 Kalpavasi devotees took the holy dip and formally took vows of austerity prayer and selfdiscipline which will continue until Maghi PurnimaThe newly developed Prayagwal Nagar established for Kalpavasis for the first time came alive with spiritual activities and devotion transforming the mela area into a vibrant tent cityWith a massive turnout elaborate arrangements and deep spiritual fervour the grand beginning of Magh Melaâ2026 has once again reaffirmed Prayagrajâs status as a timeless centre of faith and culture IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/magh-mela-opens-grandly-in-prayagraj-amid-tight-security-and-devotion-656916.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/congress-appoints-dcc-presidents-for-andhra-pradesh-656917.html Amaravati Jan 3 The All India Congress Committee has appointed presidents of District Congress Committees of Andhra Pradesh AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge approved the proposal for the appointment of presidents of the District Congress Committees of Andhra Pradesh AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal said in a statement on SaturdayThe party has named presidents for 25 DCCs and 16 city unitsStaka Bullibabu has been appointed as the president of Alluri Sitarama Raju DCC while Boddu Srinivas has been named as the president of Anakapalli DCCThe presidents of other DCCs are Y Madhusudhan Reddy Anantapuram Gajula Bhaskar Annamayya Amanchi Krishna Mohan Bapatla Deyyala Ramesh Babu Chittoor Kothuri Srinivas Dr Ambedkar Konaseema Boda Lakshmi Venkata Prasanna East Godavari Rajanala Rammohan Rao Eluru Sudheer Babu Yennam Guntur Madepalli Satyananda Rao Kakinada Ande Sriram Murthy Krishna Kranti Naidu Kurnool Vangala Dali Naidu Manyam Dr Garlapati Maddulety Swamy Nandyal Borra Kiran NTR Alexander Sudhakar Palnadu Shaikh Sajeedah Prakasam Narpareddy Kiran Kumar Reddy SPS Nellore Sanapala Annaji Rao Srikakulam Balaguravam Babu Tirupati Addala Venkata Varma Raju Visakhapatnam Maripi Vidya Sagar Vizianagaram Ankem Seetharam West Godavari and YSR Kadapa Vijaya JyothiG Tika Ram has been appointed as the president of the Chittoor city unit of the Congress party Eluru city will be headed by P Bala Venkata SubrahmaniamThe presidents of other city units are Shaik Mohammed Ifthikar Ahmed Guntur city Syed Ghouse Peer Kadapa city Chekka Nooka Raju Kakinada city S Jilani Kurnool city Abdul Mateen Machilipatnam city Shaik Allahabakash Nellore city Devireddy Adinarayana Ongole city B Muralidhar Rajahmundry city Rella Suresh Srikakulam city Gowdaperu Chitti Babu Tirupati city Narahari Setti Narasimha Rao Vijayawada city and Sanamuneti Srinivasa Rao Vizianagaram CityMallikarjun Kharge on January 16 2024 had appointed Y S Sharmila as APCC president a few days after she merged the YSR Telangana Party YSRTP with the Congress partySharmila is the sister of former Andhra Pradesh chief minister and YSR Congress Party president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and the daughter of former chief minister late Y S Rajasekhara Reddy YSRShe led the party in the simultaneous elections to the state Assembly and Lok Sabha held in May 2024 However in the third consecutive election the Congress party drew a blank in both the Assembly and Lok Sabha IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/congress-appoints-dcc-presidents-for-andhra-pradesh-656917.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-govt-issues-safety-guidelines-for-school-vehicles-656921.html Patna Jan 3 Bihar Transport Minister Shravan Kumar has issued stringent guidelines to ensure the safety of schoolchildren travelling across the state Emphasising that childrenâs safety is the governmentâs top priority the minister warned that strict punitive action will be taken against school managements and vehicle owners who fail to comply with prescribed safety normsTo enforce these measures the Transport Department will launch a statewide inspection campaign in JanuaryAll District Transport Officers DTOs have been directed to conduct thorough checks of vehicles operated by schoolsUnder the new guidelines every school vehicle must be equipped with a Vehicle Location Tracking Device VLTD panic button GPS and CCTV camerasSchool managements will be responsible for securely storing at least 60 days of CCTV footageTo prevent overspeeding speed governors have been made mandatory in all school buses limiting the maximum speed to 40 km per hourKumar stated that strict norms have also been laid down for drivers They will be penalised even once for speeding dangerous driving or drunk drivingâDrivers fined more than twice in a year for redlight violations or lane indiscipline will also be disqualifiedâ he saidâAnyone convicted under the IPC CrPC or POCSO Act will not be allowed to drive school vehicles Police verification of the driverâs permanent address and two close relatives is mandatory before appointmentâ Kumar saidAccording to a transport department official drivers must hold a valid Heavy Motor Vehicle HMV license and have at least one year of driving experience and all school buses must be fitted with a firstaid box fire extinguisher and retroreflective tapeAdditionally all documentsâregistration certificate insurance pollution certificate fitness certificate and permitâmust be valid and up to dateThe Transport Department stated that these measures are aimed at ensuring greater transparency accountability and safety in the transportation of schoolchildren across Bihar IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-govt-issues-safety-guidelines-for-school-vehicles-656921.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 01:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tripura-identifies-10-river-sites-for-hydrokinetic-power-projects-power-minister-656922.html Agartala Jan 3 Tripura is moving steadily towards power selfsufficiency by adopting new technologies including hydrokinetic power generation from flowing rivers and largescale rooftop solar installations Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath said here on Saturday Addressing the âBhoomi Pujanâ inauguration ceremony of the upcoming Super Energy Conservation Building Code ECBC building at Banamalipur the Minister said the Power Department has decided to generate 185 MW of electricity using Hydrokinetic Turbine Technology with 10 river locations already identified across the stateStressing the importance of technological adoption Nath said development is closely linked with electricity availabilityâIf we fail to adopt new technology we will be left behind Our government is focused on efficient use of power and modern solutionsâ he saidThe Minister said Rs 1233 crore would be spent on the Super ECBC building one of five such projects being constructed across the country aimed at promoting energy efficiencyHe said Tripura currently requires around 378 MW of electricity during peak hour which is projected to rise to 650 MW by 2031At present the state provides an average of 23 hours and 54 minutes of power supply with occasional trippings he said adding that the number of electricity consumers has increased to 1057 lakh up from 721 lakh before 2018 reflecting growing developmentHighlighting the stateâs solar push under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana Nath said that if five lakh households install 2 kW rooftop solar panels Tripura could generate 1000 MW of power daily significantly boosting selfreliance and power selfsufficiencyHe said the Power Department is also installing solar power systems in 2000 government buildings a project expected to be completed by next year and generate 80 MW of electricitySo far 15000 consumers have installed rooftop solar systems producing 6 MW of power he addedPointing to the stateâs move away from depleting gas reserves the Minister said hydrokinetic power offers vast potentialHe informed that the identified river sites include Chakmaghat Maharani Dumbur Natunbazar Kalsi Manu Kulai Feni Dhalai and Sangan in Ampi Lakhipur and that work on the project would begin from next monthRajya Sabha member Rajib Bhattacharjee Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder and other dignitaries were present at the event IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tripura-identifies-10-river-sites-for-hydrokinetic-power-projects-power-minister-656922.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 01:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-army-to-pioneer-ramjet-powered-155-mm-artillery-shells-656890.html New Delhi Jan 3 In a landmark stride toward military selfreliance the Indian Army is set to become the worldâs first armed force to operationally deploy ramjetpowered artillery shells for its 155 mm guns This initiative part of Indiaâs broader Atmanirbharta selfreliance campaign is being developed in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology IIT MadrasThe innovation promises to extend the range of conventional artillery shells by 30 to 50 per cent while maintaining their destructive power marking a significant leap in battlefield capabilities Artillery modernisation has long been a priority for the Indian ArmyThe focus has been on enhancing the range and accuracy of rockets and munitions to meet the demands of modern warfare Conventional artillery shells while lethal are limited in range and precision compared to advanced missile systemsBy integrating ramjet technology into 155 mm shells the Army aims to bridge this gap giving its artillery units the ability to strike deeper targets with greater effectiveness Ramjet propulsion is not new having been successfully used in missiles for decades However applying it to artillery shells is a novel conceptA ramjet is an airbreathing engine that requires no compressor or turbine Instead it relies on the forward motion of the projectile to compress incoming air Once the shell reaches speeds of around Mach 2 or twice the speed of sound the ramjet becomes operational Fuel is then burned in the compressed air producing thrust that sustains and extends the shellâs flightThe project is being spearheaded by IIT Madras in partnership with the Army Technology Board ATB Developmental trials are currently underway with successful tests already conducted at the Pokharan field firing ranges in RajasthanThese trials have demonstrated the feasibility of retrofitting ramjet modules onto existing 155 mm shells meaning the technology can be applied across the Armyâs current inventory without requiring entirely new ammunition designsOnce the technology is fully developed it can be adapted for use in any of the Armyâs artillery systems including the M777 ultralight howitzer This flexibility ensures that the innovation will not be restricted to a single platform but will enhance the overall artillery capability of the force TheThe Indian Army has artillery guns using shells of different calibres including light artillery up to 105 mm which is primarily used for close support of ground troops medium artillery 106â155 mm typically deployed for bombardment and suppression of enemy positions and heavy artillery above 155 mm designed for striking rear installations and strategic targetsThe ramjetpowered shell falls within the medium artillery category but offers performance that rivals heavier systems thanks to its extended range This means the Army can achieve longdistance strikes without deploying bulkier less mobile heavy artilleryThus the introduction of ramjetpowered artillery shells enhances the Armyâs ability to conduct deep strikes disrupt enemy logistics and neutralise fortified positions from safer distancesIt also reduces reliance on expensive missile systems for mediumrange engagements offering a costeffective yet powerful alternative The development underscores Indiaâs commitment to indigenous defence technologiesBy collaborating with IIT Madras the Army is not only advancing its own capabilities but also fostering innovation within the countryâs academic and research institutions This synergy between the military and academia is a cornerstone of the Atmanirbharta initiative aimed at reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and building a robust domestic defence industryWhile the technology is still undergoing trials its potential applications are vast Once perfected ramjetassisted shells could be integrated into multiple artillery platforms significantly boosting Indiaâs firepowerThe modular nature of the design means that existing stockpiles of 155 mm shells can be upgraded rather than replaced ensuring cost efficiency and rapid deployment The success of this project could also pave the way for further innovations in artillery propulsionConcepts such as scramjetassisted shells or hybrid propulsion systems may become feasible in the future pushing the boundaries of what artillery can achieve IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-army-to-pioneer-ramjet-powered-155-mm-artillery-shells-656890.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-files-charge-sheet-in-sand-smuggling-case-in-west-bengal-656895.html Kolkata Jan 3 The Enforcement Directorate ED has filed a charge sheet in the sand smuggling case the central agency sources said on Saturday The ED filed the charge sheet within 60 days of the arrest of Arun Sharaf and other accused ED officials saidThe charge sheet was submitted on Saturday to EDs special court in Bankshall court premises against a total of 14 companiesThe ED claimed that a corruption of Rs 145 crore has taken placeThe investigating agency also claimed that this money was allegedly laundered through 14 companies including GD Mining ED officials addedArun Sharaf the owner of GD Mining was arrested by the ED on November 6 last yearThe ED alleged that Arun Sharaf committed every possible type of fraudIt is alleged that Arun Sharaf completely disregarded all the rules and regulations of the West Bengal Sand Mining Transport Storage and Sale or WBMDTCL and amassed huge profits through illegal sand mining and salesThe central investigation agency sleuths claimed that the license plate number of the truck authorised to transport sand had to be providedHowever it is alleged that the same number was used for multiple trucks involved in this sand smuggling operationIn many cases this went unnoticed by the state authoritiesSuperficially it would appear that the sand was being transported by the authorised truckHowever in reality multiple trucks were being used with the same license plate number to carry out this sand corruptionThe sand transport permits included a QR codeIt is alleged that this QR code was also forgedThe ED investigation revealed that forgedinvalid challans were being used for illegal transportation of stolen sand from riverstock pointsThe accused personsentities used to move the stolen sand illegally from the stock points that have been obtained through allotted or auctioned minesstock pointsInvestigation has also revealed that illegal cash generated through aforesaid activities has been merged into the regular books of accounts by unexplained cash depositsBy adopting these fraudulent methods the accused personsentities engaged in largescale theft illegal transportation and sale of sand and this has led to undue enrichment of various peopleThe ED finally filed a charge sheet after investigating this case IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-files-charge-sheet-in-sand-smuggling-case-in-west-bengal-656895.html Sun, 04 Jan 2026 00:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-techie-among-two-held-for-abusive-messages-against-darshans-wife-656706.html Bengaluru Jan 2 Karnataka Police on Friday arrested two people including a software professional in connection with sending abusive comments against jailed actor Darshans wife Vijayalaxmi The accused allegedly made vulgar comments and used abusive language After the complaint was filed they deleted the messagesThe arrested people have been identified as Nitin a techie from Davanagere and Chandru an autorickshaw driver from Chikkabanavara in BengaluruThe police arrested them by tracking their IP addresses Further investigation is underwayIt can be recalled that Vijayalaxmi has alleged inaction on the part of the Bengaluru Police regarding her complaint against several social media accounts for posting abusive comments against herHowever Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh had rejected the allegation and clarified that the investigation was underwayVijayalaxmi had met Seemanth Kumar Singh on Wednesday following which she wrote a social media post on the issueMy complaint has been completely neglected I believe that the law is the same for everyone but this experience has made me question that belief This has come as a surprise to me she wroteAction was initiated within a day in another womans complaint When I lodged a complaint there has been no action and I have been neglected she statedKannada actress and former Congress MP Ramya also known as Divya Spandana had lodged a complaint against Darshans fans for issuing rape threats to her after she stood with the family of the victim in the fan murder caseThe police had acted swiftly in that case and made arrestsOn social media Vijayalaxmi stated I have always believed that the system and the law are the same for everyone in our country But honestly this experience has made me question that belief Even after follow up by my lawyers there has been no action Today I had to personally go and remind them that I am still waiting for my complaint even to be looked intoI truly hope this delay isnt because of any external pressure or influence Justice shouldnt depend on whos involved And those backing or sheltering such behaviour may be its time to put that energy into living better lives instead of blindly supporting such actions she statedI am still waiting And I wont just let this slide she warnedLast week Vijayalaxmi filed a complaint at the Cyber Crime Police Station against several social media accounts for posting abusive comments against herShe submitted a complaint along with photographs against 15 Instagram IDs and more than 150 offensive comments After lodging the complaint Vijayalaxmi left the premises without responding to the mediaShe also filed a complaint at the Bengaluru Police Commissioners office submitting screenshots of the hate comments she received along with details of the respective accounts and urged the authorities to take action The inspector of the cybercrime division accepted the complaint and assured her of appropriate actionLater Vijayalaxmi shared an Instagram story regarding the issue She also posted screenshots of the abusive comments and the accounts that had posted them IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-techie-among-two-held-for-abusive-messages-against-darshans-wife-656706.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/maruti-suzuki-india-ends-2025-with-production-crossing-record-2255-lakh-vehicles-656707.html New Delhi Jan 2 Maruti Suzuki India Limited the countryâs largest car manufacturer produced over 2255 lakh vehicles in 2025 its highestever output in a calendar year according to a company statement issued on Friday This is the second consecutive year that Maruti Suzuki India has exceeded 20 lakh units in annual production The production includes vehicles for domestic sales exports and OEM supplies The top five models by production volume during the year were Fronx Baleno Swift Dzire and ErtigaâThis milestone reflects the Companyâs strong focus on delivering products in line with customer demand across domestic and international marketsâ the statement saidMaruti Suzuki managing director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said âThis record production is a result of the dedication of our employees and the strong synergy that we share with our supplier partners A high degree of localisation has enabled us to achieve such scale while maintaining worldclass quality highlighting the strength and global competitiveness of Indiaâs automotive manufacturing ecosystemââWe remain committed to expanding our manufacturing footprint and strengthening Indiaâs automobile manufacturing capabilities in line with the Government of Indiaâs âMake in Indiaâ initiativeâ he addedAlso Maruti Suzuki India on Thursday said it has exported 395 lakh vehicles in 2025 its highest ever in any calendar year This marks a growth of over 21 per cent as compared to 2024Maruti Suzuki began operations in 1983 with its first production facility at Haryanaâs Gurugram on the outskirts of Delhi Over the years supported by a robust multitier supplier and dealer ecosystem the company expanded its manufacturing footprint including facilities in Gurugram Manesar and Kharkhoda in Haryana and recently amalgamated the Gujarat plant into its operationsThe car giant now manufactures as many as 17 models and over 650 variants across these stateoftheart facilities Looking ahead the company plans to enhance its manufacturing capacity to 4 million units per annum to meet rising domestic demand and serve international markets the company statement saidMaruti Suzuki continues to dominate Indias car market consistently holding an over 40 per cent share of the market in the passenger vehicle segment The company continues to lead due to affordable fuelefficient models with recent strong sales driven by festive demand IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/maruti-suzuki-india-ends-2025-with-production-crossing-record-2255-lakh-vehicles-656707.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/dhaka-hails-indias-initiative-to-take-relations-forward-but-fails-to-contain-hate-crimes-in-bangladesh-656708.html New Delhi Jan 2 Indiaâs External Affairs Minister S Jaishankarâs Dhaka visit to attend former Prime Minister Khaleda Ziaâs funeral on Wednesday and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visiting the High Commission in New Delhi to pay respects to the departed leader is significant given the current situation observed a leading Bangladesh daily âThe brief visit of Indiaâs foreign minister S Jaishankar to Dhaka over the past two days along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singhâs visit to the Bangladesh mission is significantâ said a Prothom Alo analysisâSince the popular uprising of 5 August 2024 which led to the fall of the Awami League government and Sheikh Hasinaâs flight to India relations between the two countries have deterioratedâ it addedEarlier Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Riaz Hamidullah had posted on social media âXâ that following Jaishankarâs Dhaka visit India and Bangladesh can look forward to scripting a new chapter in bilateral tiesIncidentally Hamidullah was summoned back to Dhaka on Monday amid rising bilateral tensions between the two neighboursâAs India Hon External Affairs Minister HE Dr DrSJaishankar left Dhaka following a whirlwind 4hr visit Bangladesh amp India would look forward to script a new chapter in BangladeshIndia ties in shared interests driven by pragmatism and mutual interdependence as indeed briefly discussed with bdbnp78 Acting Chair trahmanbnp this afternoonâ he wrote on WednesdayThe last part was in reference to the External Affairs Minister meeting the deceased former Prime Ministerâs son Tarique Rahman who is Bangladesh Nationalist Party BNP Acting Chairman and handing him Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs condolence letterAlso acknowledging the Defence Ministerâs visit Hamidullah wrote the next day âHonoured to welcome HE rajnathsingh Hon India Defense Minister at bdhcdelhi as he conveyed condolences of India and paid homage to former Bangladesh Prime Minister bdbnp78 Chairperson late BegumKhaledaZia in DelhiâFridayâs analysis in Prothom Alo appears to echo the High Commissionerâs observations on the development referring to his social media postsâYet barely a week later Rajnath Singhâs visit to the Bangladesh High Commission to pay respects to Khaleda Zia is significant In addition to honouring the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh his presence at the High Commission signals that Delhi is taking responsibility for ensuring the highest level of security at the missionâ wrote the newspaperâs Diplomatic Editor Raheed Ejaz on FridayThe piece however failed to mention the violence in Bangladesh and the killings of Hindu and other minority citizens It rather highlighted demonstrations and protests in India voicing the ongoing atrocitiesViolence in Bangladesh has sharply escalated with Hindu minority citizens facing targeted killings At least 12 Hindus were murdered in mob lynchings and extrajudicial attacks last month These incidents have heightened anxiety among minority communities and raised questions about Bangladeshâs ability to protect vulnerable groupsThe violence undermines social cohesion and democratic transition especially ahead of the February 12 electionsAuthorities often present each killing as an isolated crime but it reveals how political instability religious radicalism and weak institutions converge to leave minorities vulnerable The Prothom Alo piece headlined Delhi eager to take bilateral relations forward ended portraying Bangladesh authoritiesâ uncertaintyIt recounted that when Touhid Hossain Adviser for Foreign Affairs of the Interim Government was asked whether Jaishankarâs visit would ease tensions between the two countries he replied âYou will have to look for the answer in the days ahead In the coming days you will see what happensâDhaka needs to reciprocate not appear uncertain passing on the responsibility and response to future IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/dhaka-hails-indias-initiative-to-take-relations-forward-but-fails-to-contain-hate-crimes-in-bangladesh-656708.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/trekking-camping-amp-hiking-prohibited-in-jampks-kokernag-656709.html Srinagar Jan 2 Authorities in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district on Friday prohibited trekking camping hiking and similar outdoor activities in high altitude and forested areas ok Kokernag citing security reasons An order issued by the Kokernag SDM cited recent incidents where certain persons have attempted to cross nakacheckpoints during late night hours thereby raising serious security concerns relating to public safety and that unrestricted movement and activities like trekking camping hiking and similar outdoor pursuits in the areas of Margan Top Chauher Nag and Sinthan Top are likely to adversely affect public safety and securityNow therefore I Prince Kumar Kokernag SubDivisional Magistrate in exercise of powers conferred upon me under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sinhita BNSS 2023 hereby order as under Trekking camping hiking and all other similar outdoor activities are prohibited in the area of Margan Top Chauher Nag and Sinthan Top with immediate effectThe Larnoo Station House Officer shall ensure strict implementation of this order and regulate movement of nakacheckpoints the SDM order said adding that the general public is directed to strictly comply with this order Any violation shall invite action as per lawThe order shall remain in force for a period of two months from the date of issuance unless withdrawn earlier or extended as per law the SDM order addedThe order comes as joint security forces are carrying out large antiterror operations in the higher reaches of Poonch Rajouri and Kishtwar districts of Jammu divisionThe Valley is connected with the Kishtwar district through the Sinthan Top in the Kokernag areaThe joint operations are targeting terrorists their overground workers OGWs and sympathisersThis coordinated approach is aimed at dismantling the complete support system of terrorism rather than going after just the gunwielding terrorists IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/trekking-camping-amp-hiking-prohibited-in-jampks-kokernag-656709.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampks-anti-narcotic-task-force-arrests-absconding-drug-peddler-656710.html Srinagar Jan 2 The AntiNarcotic Task Force ANTF said on Friday that it has arrested an absconding drug peddler in Jammu and Kashmirs Srinagar district A statement issued by the ANTF said Continuing its unwavering operation against drug peddlers AntiNarcotics Task Force ANTF Kashmir achieved a significant breakthrough by arresting a hardcore woman drug peddler namely Tamana Ashraf daughter of Mohammad Ashraf resident of Batamaloo Srinagar involved in FIR No 102023 us 820 NDPS Act registered at ANTF Jammu and was evading her arrest for the last three yearsThe woman accused is involved in trafficking more than 7 kgs of charas which was being sent to Mumbai through Courier ServicesThe said woman was evading her arrest since the registration of cases in different states across the country however due to continuous efforts of ANTF Jammu and Kashmir she was tactfully apprehended from her residence at Batamaloo Srinagar on ThursdayThe relentless efforts of ANTF Jammu and Kashmir and intelligenceled operation resulted in the successful apprehension showcasing their commitment to curbing narcotics crimes the statement addedThe Jammu and Kashmir Police and the security forces have adopted a holistic approach to tackling terrorism in Jammu and KashmirThe antiterrorist operations by police and the security forces target terrorists their over ground workers OGWs and sympathisersDrug smugglers drug peddlers and those involved in hawala money rackets are also on the scanner of the security forces as it is believed that the funds generated by the unlawful activities are finally used to sustain terrorism in Jammu and KashmirThe coordinated approach of the joint forces is aimed at dismantling the complete support system of terrorism in the union territory rather than focusing on just the gunwielding terroristsThe duties such as checking infiltration exfiltration and drug smuggling are manned by the Army and the BSF IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampks-anti-narcotic-task-force-arrests-absconding-drug-peddler-656710.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-busts-fake-claim-on-rbi-withdrawing-rs-500-notes-from-atms-by-march-2026-656715.html New Delhi Jan 2 The Central government on Friday rebutted fake information being circulated on social media platforms claiming that the Reserve Bank of India RBI would stop Rs 500 currency notes from ATMs by March 2026 PIB Fact Check a factchecking arm of Press Information Bureau PIB posted on X that such posts are completely fakeRBI to stop Rs 500 notes from ATMs by March 2026 Some social media posts claim that the Reserve Bank of India will discontinue the circulation of Rs 500 notes by March 2026 This claim is fake according to the X handleIt further stated that the Central Bank has made NO such announcementRs 500 notes have NOT been discontinued and remain legal tender Donât fall for such misinformation Always verify news from official sources before believing or sharing it PIB Fact Check saidIn August last year the government termed untrue a WhatsApp message that claimed the RBI had ordered banks to cease issuing Rs 500 notes via ATMs by September 30 saying no such instruction had been issued The deceptive message also claimed that 90 per cent of ATMs will cease issuing Rs 500 notes by March 31 2026 and 75 per cent will do so by September 30The PIB Fact Check unit had then said that the RBI has not issued any such instructions and Rs 500 notes are still legal tender In a post on X it clarified that the widely shared claim is untrue and advised people not to believe such false informationThe Fact Check Unit stressed the significance of confirming any financial updates from official sources and cautioned that such messages are intended to deceiveA similar claim went viral on social media in July claiming that the RBI had a phased plan to stop issuing Rs 500 notes to ATMs by 2026 PIB Fact Check had denied the allegation at that time as well claiming that no such directive had been issued IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-busts-fake-claim-on-rbi-withdrawing-rs-500-notes-from-atms-by-march-2026-656715.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/justice-ms-sonak-appointed-as-chief-justice-of-jharkhand-hc-656717.html New Delhi Jan 2 The Centre on Friday notified the appointment of Bombay High Court judge Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak as the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court following the retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice on January 8 A notification issued by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice said that the President in exercise of powers conferred by the Constitution of India and in consultation with the Chief Justice of India CJI was pleased to appoint Justice Sonak as the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High CourtThe appointment comes in line with the recommendation of the CJI Surya Kantled Supreme Court Collegium which had earlier proposed the elevation of Justice Sonak a judge of the Bombay High Court as the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court in view of the impending retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice Tarlok Singh ChauhanBorn on November 28 1964 Justice Sonak completed his schooling at Don Bosco High School Panaji Goa He obtained his BSc degree from Dhempe College of Arts and Science and his LLB from MS College of Law Panaji affiliated to Bombay UniversityBefore elevation to the Bench Justice Sonak enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa in October 1988 and practised at the Panaji Bench of the Bombay High Court in civil and constitutional law labour and service law environmental law commercial and tax laws company law and public interest litigationsDuring his career at the Bar he served as Additional Standing Counsel for the Central government and Special Counsel for the State government and statutory corporationsHe was elevated as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court on June 21 2013On Thursday the Centre notified the appointment and transfer of Chief Justices of High Courts of Kerala Patna and Meghalaya However the apex court Collegiumâs proposal to appoint Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta of the Allahabad High Court as Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court is yet to be acted upon by the Centre IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/justice-ms-sonak-appointed-as-chief-justice-of-jharkhand-hc-656717.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/shabdotsav-2026-begins-at-dhyan-chand-stadium-delhi-cminaugurates-ceremony-656719.html New Delhi Jan 2 Shabdotsav 2026 a threeday cultural and literary festival celebrating âBharat Abhyudayaâ kicked off at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in the national capital on Friday The event was inaugurated with the lighting of a lamp in the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta Cabinet Minister Kapil Mishra Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra and other noted and distinguished dignitariesThe event began with the rendition of Vande MataramThe Shabdotsav 2026 shedding light on the countryâs cultural literary and ideological consciousness will see several noted thinkers speakers and ideologues share their views during the threeday programmeThe festival being organised by Suruchi Prakashan in collaboration with Hindi Academy is set to host over 100 authors filmmakers thinkers cultural performances youth events book discussions and Bharatinspired cuisineNational Security Advisor NSA Ajit Doval RSSâ Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar and Manmohan Vaidya are among the noted speakers at the eventEarlier Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra shared an update about the event on his X handle saying âThe ideology of those who want to break the nation will no longer be able to fly their flagsâHe wrote on X in Hindi Lord Nataraja Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Maharana Pratap Ji Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj These are our heroes and this is our festival ShabdotsavDays ago the Art and Culture Minister informed that the countryâs largest literature and cultural festival at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium will see students from nearly 40 universities across the DelhiNCR participateThe festival is expected to see a slew of book releases and also feature programmes such as Bharatnatyam Kathak Bhajan Sandhya Kavi Sammelan and Somnath Jyotirlinga DarshanThe poster of Delhi Shabdotsav 2026 was earlier launched by Delhi CM Rekha Gupta along with her cabinet ministers including Kapil Mishra Ashish Sood and othersâThe threeday cultural and literary festival from January 2 to 4 will bring together literature culture and intellectual discourse on a single platform for the first timeâ says the Shabdotsav on its portal IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/shabdotsav-2026-begins-at-dhyan-chand-stadium-delhi-cminaugurates-ceremony-656719.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-vijayan-manipulating-sabarimala-gold-theft-case-says-kerala-lop-satheesan-656720.html Kochi Jan 2 Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly V D Satheesan on Friday launched a blistering attack on Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan accusing the Chief Ministers Office CMO of actively interfering in the High Courtâappointed Special Investigation Team SIT probe into the Sabarimala gold theft case contrary to the Chief Ministers public claims Rejecting CM Vijayans assertion that the investigation has not been obstructed Satheesan alleged that the CMO has repeatedly attempted to derail the probe by exerting pressure on the SITThe recent induction of two officials allegedly linked to the CPIM into the SIT was cited as evidence of a systematic effort to infiltrate the investigation and leak confidential details to the ruling party The governments intent is to shield senior CPIM leaders from legal scrutiny said SatheesanHe said the SIT is not probing who merely posed for photographs with prime accused Unnikrishnan Potti but is focused on identifying who stole the gold from Sabarimala where it was sold and the source of the Dwarapalaka sculpture donationBeing in a photograph does not make one an accused added Satheesan and he pointed out that three CPIM leaders are already in jail and that more influential figures could followOn the Chief Ministers claim of resisting the RSS Satheesan dismissed it as political theatre recalling past instances that allegedly point to tacit understandings with the BJPThe disruption of the Thrissur Pooram indirectly benefited BJP candidate Suresh Gopi a claim even the CPI has alluded to by alleging a conspiracyHe also pointed out that the series of thefts dating back to 2019 had come to light only due to judicial intervention warning that even the Ayyappa idol could have been stolen otherwiseThere should be equal scrutiny for all including the Chief Minister if questioning is based on proximity to the accused added Satheesan as Vijayan also was seen in a picture with PottiIn a related development the SIT on Monday will inform the High Court that a CBI probe is not required on a plea filed by State BJP president Rajeev ChandrasekharAlso one of the accused and presently in jail N Vasu CPIM leader and the one who held the post of both Commissioner and President of Travancore Devasom Board has filed a plea seeking bail after the Kerala High Court rejected it IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-vijayan-manipulating-sabarimala-gold-theft-case-says-kerala-lop-satheesan-656720.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-key-delhi-high-court-judgments-656721.html New Delhi Jan 2 From protecting personality rights in the digital age to reaffirming access to electricity as a basic human necessity the Delhi High Court delivered a series of landmark judgments throughout the year Here is a yearend wrap of some of the most significant High Court rulings Protecting Personality RightsThe Delhi High Court has taken the lead in protecting personality and publicity rights amid the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and online commercial exploitation In December a singlejudge bench of Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora granted an adinterim injunction in favour of actor and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan restraining online marketplaces AI platforms websites and unidentified entities from misusing his name image voice likeness and other attributes for commercial gainIn a similar court ruling the Delhi High Court protected the personality rights of former India captain Sunil Gavaskar directing social media intermediaries and ecommerce platforms to take down unauthorised content and merchandise misusing his identityIn recent months several public figures including actors Nagarjuna Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Abhishek Bachchan filmmaker Karan Johar podcaster Raj Shamani and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar secured similar reliefsElectricity as a Fundamental RightReaffirming the constitutional protection of basic amenities the Delhi High Court directed BSES Rajdhani Power Limited to restore electricity to a tenants premises without insisting on an NOC No Objection Certificate from the landlords It ruled that electricity is an integral part of the right to life under Article 21 and cannot be denied due to a pending landlordtenant dispute The Delhi High Court rejected the argument that the absence of an NOC could justify continued disconnection observing that possession cannot be termed unlawful until a competent court orders evictionNo citizen can be expected to live a life devoid of basic necessities such as electricity it said while directing restoration through the existing meter and allowing police assistance if requiredUnnao rape case Sentence Suspension Public Outcry and SC interventionOne of the most debated rulings of the year came when the Delhi High Court suspended the life sentence of expelled Bharatiya Janata Party leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case and granted him bail pending appeal Though it imposed stringent conditions the decision triggered widespread criticism and protests Sengar was not able to walk out of the jail due to a separate conviction linked to the death of the survivors fatherSubsequently the Supreme Court stayed the operation of the Delhi High Court order citing peculiar facts and clarifying that Sengar would not be releasedMandatory eKYC for Domain RegistrationsIn a sweeping 248page judgment the Delhi High Court issued stringent directions mandating strict eKYC verification of domain name registrants holding that anonymity in registrations had flared up online fraud phishing and consumer deception Deciding a batch of suits filed by Dabur India Limited a singlejudge bench of Justice Prathiba M Singh rejected the practice of privacy by default observing that masking identities without verification had become a key enabler of financial fraudThe Delhi High Court directed all domain name registrars operating in India to verify registrant details at registration and periodically thereafter in line with CERTIn norms and to disclose verified data to authorities within 72 hours when sought It warned that noncompliance could result in loss of safe harbour protection and even blocking under the IT Act The judgment also urged the Union government to explore a uniform eKYC framework balancing fraud prevention with data protection while ensuring compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection ActNational Herald CaseThe Delhi High Court issued notice to Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi Rahul Gandhi and others on a criminal revision petition filed by the Enforcement Directorate ED challenging a trial courts refusal to take cognisance of its money laundering complaint in the National Herald case A singlejudge bench of Justice Ravinder Dudeja listed the matter for March 2026 reopening a debate on the scope of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLAThe ED said that the trial courts order if allowed to stand would render the PMLA redundant asserting that the antimoney laundering law does not prescribe any specific mode for initiating proceedings The case involving the alleged acquisition of assets worth more than Rs 2000 crore continues to remain one of the most politically sensitive before the Delhi High CourtRelief to Mahua MoitraIn another significant ruling the Delhi High Court set aside a Lokpal order granting sanction to the Central Bureau of Investigation to file a charge sheet against the Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra in the alleged cashforquery case It held that the Lokpal failed to consider the public servants submissions before granting sanction Directing reconsideration within one month the Delhi High Court reaffirmed that statutory safeguards and principles of natural justice cannot be diluted even at the stage of sanction under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas ActReinstatement of HIVPositive BSF ConstableThe Delhi High Court ordered reinstatement of a BSF constable discharged solely for being HIVpositive holding that the termination violated the HIVAIDS Act 2017 and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities RPwD Act 2016 A bench of Justices C Hari Shankar and Om Prakash Shukla observed that there was not even an attempt to comply with the statutory mandate requiring an independent medical assessment and consideration of reasonable accommodationThe Delhi High Court held that an HIVpositive employee falls within the definition of a person with disability and is entitled to protection against discrimination While denying back wages it granted continuity of service and benefits reinforcing workplace equality and dignityMutual Consent Divorce Courts Can Waive Statutory TimelinesIn a landmark Full Bench ruling the Delhi High Court clarified that courts are not bound to mechanically enforce statutory waiting periods in divorce by mutual consent It held that both the oneyear separation requirement and the sixmonth coolingoff period under the Hindu Marriage Act can be waived in cases of exceptional hardship or depravityRefusal of Conjugal Relations Constitutes Mental CrueltyThe Delhi High Court upheld a decree of divorce on the ground of mental cruelty noting that the marriage had remained unconsummated from inception Relying on documentary evidence and communications it held that persistent denial of conjugal relations amounted to cruelty under the Hindu Marriage ActRelease of Rolex WatchThe Delhi High Court directed the Customs Department to release a seized Rolex watch after authorities failed to issue a mandatory showcause notice within the statutory period Holding continued detention impermissible it reiterated that bona fide personal effects of travellers are not dutiable imports and that procedural lapses automatically trigger releaseThe Delhi HC Rejects Bail in 2020 Larger Conspiracy CaseThe Delhi High Court in September dismissed the bail pleas of student activists Umar Khalid Sharjeel Imam and several others accused in the 2020 Delhi riots larger conspiracy case A bench of Justices Navin Chawla and Shalinder Kaur had reserved its decision after hearing extensive submissions from the accused and Solicitor General SG Tushar Mehta appearing for the Delhi PoliceOpposing bail the SG said that prolonged incarceration could not justify release asserting that the accused were part of a wellorchestrated criminal conspiracy timed to coincide with the visit of US President Donald Trump in 2020 Terming it a premeditated attack on the sovereignty of the nation SG Mehta said the accused were not protesting against a law but planning something sinisterIn December the Supreme Court reserved judgment on petitions challenging the Delhi High Courts order with the accused facing Unlawful Activities Prevention Act charges and having spent more than five years in custody IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-key-delhi-high-court-judgments-656721.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-delegation-meets-ktaka-dgp-over-ballari-violence-issue-seeks-protection-for-party-mlas-656722.html Bengaluru Jan 2 The Karnataka BJP delegation led by the Leaders of the Opposition R Ashoka and Chalavadi Narayanaswamy on Friday met the State Director General of Police and Inspector General of Police MA Saleem in connection with the incidents of violence in Ballari in which a Congress worker has died in a shootout and demanded protection for the BJP MLA and mining baron Janardhana Reddy and other leaders Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru after the meeting Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly R Ashoka has demanded that immediate police protection be provided to former Ministers and MLAs Janardhana Reddy and B Sriramulu saying that their lives are under threatHe also demanded a judicial inquiry into the Ballari incidentBJP leader Ashoka said that Congress workers who allegedly trespassed illegally into the houses of supporters of former Minister and MLA Janardhana Reddy should be immediately arrested under the Goonda ActHe alleged that Ballari MLA Nara Bharat Reddy was responsible for the chain of events that led to the death of a Congress worker Rajashekhar and demanded his immediate arrestHe also accused the Congress of having decided to eliminate former Minister Janardhana ReddyOpposition leader Ashoka said the firing allegedly carried out by Congress supporters targeting BJP leaders Janardhana Reddy and Sriramulu in Ballari has shocked the entire stateHe added that during the New Year celebrations the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had assured that the police would ensure no untoward incidents take place However firing incidents occurred in Ballari on Friday which he said reflected the complete collapse of law and order in the stateHe alleged that on the one hand police personnel are getting caught in theft cases and on the other an Andhrastyle blood history has entered KarnatakaHe said that political firing was never part of Karnatakas culture but the present Congressled state government has now set a precedent for itBJP leader Ashoka said a flex banner was installed inside Janardhana Reddys compound following which his family lodged a complaint and the police removed it Later supporters of MLA Bharat Reddy allegedly arrived sat in protest on the road barged through the gate and reinstalled the flex bannerBJP leader Ashoka asked what was the fault of Janardhana Reddy regarding the entire incidentHe alleged that the year 2026 has begun with bloodshed and accused the corrupt government referring to Congress government of sending a message that Karnataka is moving towards an Andhrastyle model Responding to a query BJP leader Ashoka said that Janardhana Reddy was not present at his residence when the incident occurredLeader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy said the first day of the New Year itself has claimed a life sending out a message that Karnataka has become a goonda stateHe added that complaints should have been registered against the Congress MLA Bharat Reddy and his party workers but instead attempts were being made to file cases against Janardhana Reddy and Sriramulu He asked how they were involved in the incident and asked who actually fired the bulletHe said that the police fired bullets into the air and asked whether Satish Reddy an associate of MLA Bharat Reddy who allegedly indulged in largescale hooliganism had been arrested He criticised the state government for not arresting Satish Reddy and said that Congress leaders and MLAs should be arrested not Janardhana Reddy and SriramuluLegislative Council Opposition leader Narayanaswamy alleged that all acts of mischief were carried out by Congress workers and not by BJP MLAs and demanded that such hooliganism be stopped immediatelyWhat began as a dispute over banners in Ballari on Thursday night escalated into a violent clash between two groups allegedly linked to MLA Janardhana Reddy and Congress MLA Nara Bharat ReddyThe situation further intensified after Janardhana Reddy alleged that there was a conspiracy to assassinate him allegedly orchestrated by the family of Congress MLA Bharat Reddy Following the incident the police imposed prohibitory orders in the area as a precautionary measureThe situation continues to remain tense and volatile in Ballari city IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-delegation-meets-ktaka-dgp-over-ballari-violence-issue-seeks-protection-for-party-mlas-656722.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-dgp-approves-reorganisation-of-police-zones-to-boost-crime-control-speed-up-probes-656725.html Patna Jan 2 In a major move aimed at making the functioning of the Bihar Police more effective and responsive Director General of Police DGP Vinay Kumar has approved the reorganisation of police zones across the state The decision is aimed at strengthening crime control improving law and order monitoring and expediting the investigation of pending casesFormal orders regarding the revised police zone structure have been issued by the police headquarters marking a significant reform in Biharâs policing and security frameworkâThe primary objective of this reorganisation is to reduce delays and minimise human error in investigations Under the new system clear accountability will be fixed for police officers to ensure highquality investigations enabling citizens to receive swift and effective justiceâ DGP Vinay Kumar told the media on FridayHe said the revised police zone structure would enhance operational efficiency and make it easier to monitor complex and sensitive cases particularly those involving serious crimesTo operationalise the plan a highlevel meeting was held on December 31 between the DGP and senior police officers during which a detailed framework for the deployment of police inspectors and other officers was preparedIn the coming days the police department is expected to witness largescale reshuffles and fresh appointments as part of the reorganisation exercise aimed at making the force more dynamic and better aligned with groundlevel requirementsThe DGP said that while crime incidents in the state have declined there is still scope for improvementâWe strongly believe that only when no incidents of heinous crimes like murder take place in Bihar can we say the situation has fully improvedâ Kumar saidHighlighting progress in tackling Left Wing Extremism the DGP noted that Naxal activities in the state have been reduced to almost zeroâRecently three Naxal operatives surrendered before the Bihar Police along with their weapons They had not been involved in any Naxal activities for the last four yearsâ he saidKumar further stated that the state government has put in place a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for surrendered Naxals and their families including employment opportunitiesâWe are making efforts to provide all possible assistance through government schemes Welfare projects are being ensured in Naxalaffected areas so that people there can benefit and move towards mainstream developmentâ he addedThe police zone reorganisation is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening law enforcement enhancing public confidence and ensuring sustainable peace and development across Bihar IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-dgp-approves-reorganisation-of-police-zones-to-boost-crime-control-speed-up-probes-656725.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tripura-exports-organic-white-sesame-to-gujarat-550-cr-organic-produce-shipped-since-2023-656726.html Agartala Jan 2 Tripura Agriculture and Farmersâ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Friday flagged off a vehicle carrying 1000 kg of organic white sesame for Anand in Gujarat marking another milestone in the stateâs growing organic export sector After the flagoff ceremony the Minister said that the consignment had been exported to Media Minds in Anand Gujarat He added that an additional 5000 kg of organic white sesame would be sent to Gujarat soon citing high demand for the produce According to Nath Loknath Organic Farmer Producer Company FPC Dhalai Organic FPC and Yapri Organic FPC jointly procured the sesame directly from farmers to ensure remunerative prices and enhance farmersâ income âThe popularity of Tripuraâs organic products outside the state is steadily increasing It is encouraging that at the beginning of the New Year we can send such a consignmentâ the Minister said He expressed gratitude to the International Competence Centre for Organic Agriculture ICCOA and Sheel Biotech for their crucial support in facilitating the export Nath said five organisations are providing training to FPCs on procurement ensuring fair returns to farmers and marketing agricultural produce âWhile farmers produce quality agricultural items exporting them to states like Gujarat requires institutional support That is why the government has promoted FPCs and service providersâ the Minister said He further informed that from 202324 till now organic products worth Rs 550 crore have been exported from Tripura to other states and overseas âNext month three FPCs from Tripura will participate in BioFach the worldâs leading organic food trade fair in Germanyâ Nath added Meanwhile in a major step towards enhancing agricultural productivity and achieving selfsufficiency in food grain production the Tripura Agriculture Department has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with the Nagpurbased National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning NBSSampLUP The Agriculture and Farmersâ Welfare Minister said that the collaboration aims to carry out indepth research on cultivable land across several districts of the state paving the way for sustainable farming practices and a stronger agricultural future for Tripura IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tripura-exports-organic-white-sesame-to-gujarat-550-cr-organic-produce-shipped-since-2023-656726.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-enterprises-launches-third-rs-1-000-crore-ncd-issue-offers-up-to-890-pc-per-annum-656727.html Ahmedabad Jan 2 Adani Enterprises Limited AEL the flagship company of the Adani Group on Friday announced the launch of its third public issuance of secured rated listed redeemable nonconvertible debentures NCDs of Rs 1000 crore offering up to 890 per cent per annum The issue will open on January 6 and close on January 19 with an option of early closure or extension The NCDs have a face value of Rs 1000 eachEach application will be for a minimum of 10 NCDs and in multiples of 1 NCD thereafter The minimum application size would be Rs 10000 said AEL Indiaâs largest listed business incubator in terms of market capitalisationThe base size issue is Rs 500 crore with an option to retain oversubscription up to an additional Rs 500 crore green shoe option aggregating up to Rs 1000 crore issue size said the companyThis third NCD issuance marks another step in our journey to broaden access to Indiaâs capital markets and give retail investors a stake in longterm infrastructure growth The strong response to our previous offerings reinforces trust in our strategy and financial discipline and we aim to build on that momentum Adani Groups Group CFO Jugeshinder âRobbieâ Singh saidAs the incubator for Indiaâs next wave of infrastructure from airports and roads to data centres and green hydrogen AEL remains focused on creating businesses that will power Indiaâs economic transformation Singh notedAccording to the company at least 75 per cent of the proceeds from the issuance will be utilised towards the prepayment or repayment or payment in full or in part of the indebtedness availed by the company andor any interest on such indebtedness and the balance up to a maximum of 25 per cent for general corporate purposesAELâs second NCD issuance of Rs 1000 crore launched in July last year was fully subscribed in three hours on the first dayWith the recent rate cuts and a softer interest rate cycle the AEL NCD issue comes at an opportune time for investors seeking stable fixedincome avenues Offering competitive yields compared to similarly rated NCDs and fixed deposits this public issue presents a valuable proposition for the investorsThe proposed NCDs have been rated âCare AA Stableâ by CARE Ratings Limited and âICRAAA Stableâ by ICRA Limited Securities with this rating are considered to have a high degree of safety regarding the timely servicing of financial obligations Such securities carry very low credit riskThe NCDs are available in tenors of 24 months 36 months and 60 months with quarterly annual and cumulative interest payment options across eight series IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-enterprises-launches-third-rs-1-000-crore-ncd-issue-offers-up-to-890-pc-per-annum-656727.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-ed-seizes-assets-worth-over-rs-45-crore-in-stock-market-investment-fraud-case-656728.html Ahmedabad Jan 2 The Directorate of Enforcement ED Ahmedabad Zonal Office has made a major seizure in connection with a fraudulent stock market investment scam that targeted common investors Acting under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA 2002 the ED recovered proceeds of crime worth several crores from the accused Himanshu alias Pintu Bhavsar and othersDuring the search and seizure operations the ED recovered silver bullion weighing 110 kg valued at approximately Rs 24 crore gold bullion weighing around 1296 kg worth Rs 17 crore silver jewellery weighing about 397 kg Indian currency amounting to Rs 388 lakh and foreign currencies valued at approximately Rs 106 lakh Additionally various propertyrelated documents suspected of being linked to the proceeds of crime were also seizedThe investigation was initiated based on an FIR registered by Kheralu Police Station in Mehsana district under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code As per the complaint the accused lured investors by promising high returns through stock market investments but subsequently defrauded them by neither investing the funds nor returning the money Instead the funds were allegedly diverted for personal use Further investigation revealed that at least six more FIRs have been registered against the accused in different states with the total fraud amount estimated at around Rs 1087 croreThe ED found that the alleged mastermind Himanshu alias Pintu Bhavsar along with his associates had set up multiple offices in Mehsana Visnagar and Vadnagar to attract funds from the general public Employees were hired to make regular phone calls to potential investors enticing them with promises of high returns in the stock market The probe also uncovered serious regulatory violations Himanshu Bharatkumar Bhavsar was found to have misused an Investment Advisor Certificate issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India SEBI in his individual capacity for the benefit of three companies Vishwas Stocks Research Pvt Ltd Dalal Stocks Advisory Pvt Ltd and Devki Stocks Pvt LtdThese entities were operating as unregistered investment advisors without the requisite SEBI registration In its order SEBI held the companies and their directors including Himanshu Bhavsar responsible for violations related to unauthorised investment advisory activities The ED has stated that further investigation into the case is underway as authorities continue to trace additional assets and identify the full extent of the money laundering network involved in the fraud IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-ed-seizes-assets-worth-over-rs-45-crore-in-stock-market-investment-fraud-case-656728.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-based-terror-handlers-property-attached-in-jampks-poonch-656731.html Jammu Jan 2 The Jammu and Kashmir Police said on Friday that it has attached the property of a Pakistanbased terror handler in the Mandi area of the district A police statement said In a decisive legal action against terrorism and antinational elements operating from across the border Poonch Police have attached an immovable property belonging to a Pakistanbased terror handler in compliance with the directions of the Honourable CourtThe attachment has been effected in connection with FIR No 072002 registered at Police Station Mandi under Sections 23 of the EampIMCO Act The attached property comprises 06 Kanal 135 Marlas of land falling under Khasra Nos 291 292 287 271 222 2221 221 186 180 and 97 min situated in Tehsil Mandi District Poonch with an assessed value of approximately Rs 1336 lakh he saidThe attached property belongs to Jamal Lone alias Jamala son of Sultan Lone alias Sultana resident of Chamber Kanari Tehsil Mandi District Poonch who is presently operating as a Pakistanbased terror handlerThe accused had earlier exfiltrated to PakistanPoJK and has since been actively involved in activities inimical to the security and sovereignty of the nationOwing to his continued evasion of the legal process the accused was declared a Proclaimed Offender by the Honble CourtDespite sustained efforts by Poonch Police to secure his arrest he remained beyond the reach of law compelling the Honble Court to order attachment of his immovable propertyActing upon these directions the attachment was executed by the Poonch Police in close coordination with the Revenue Department after following all due legal procedures verification and documentationThis action forms part of a broader and sustained strategy to dismantle the financial and logistical support structures of terror networks and to ensure that individuals involved in terrorism and antinational activities are deprived of their resources it saidDistrict Police Poonch reiterates its unwavering commitment to act firmly and lawfully against Pakistanbased terror handlers and all elements involved in activities prejudicial to national security and assures the public that such measures will continue in the interest of peace public safety and sovereignty of the nation the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-based-terror-handlers-property-attached-in-jampks-poonch-656731.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tiff-between-ex-dgp-turned-bjp-councillor-and-cpi-m-legislator-takes-new-turn-656733.html Thiruvananthapuram Jan 2 A political storm that broke out in Sasthamangalam in the heart of the state capital has taken a fresh turn with BJP ward councillor R Sreelekha and CPIM MLA VK Prasanth continuing to trade barbs on Friday The row traces its roots to last monthâs Thiruvananthapuram Corporation elections when the BJP registered a stunning victory ending more than four decades of CPIMled Left rule in the civic bodySreelekha who retired from the Kerala Police as Director General of Police DGP on Friday installed her name board directly above that of MLA VK Prasanth at their local office in SasthamangalamThe move has drawn sharp attention not merely for reviving an old tiff but also for the symbolic challenge it poses to political protocol under which an MLA ranks significantly higher than a ward councillorThe controversy centres on an ongoing dispute over the ownership and use of the Sasthamangalam office a space that has repeatedly emerged as a flashpoint for public confrontation between the two leadersBy placing her name board above that of the MLA Sreelekha is being seen by political observers as making a pointed statement that goes beyond signage and enters the realm of political oneupmanshipThe building is owned by the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation and Sreelekha has objected to Prasanth operating his office from the premises arguing that the MLA already has space allotted at the legislatorsâ hostel in the citySreelekha herself brought the episode into the public domain by sharing photographs of the newly installed name board on her Facebook page ensuring immediate political traction and debateThe images quickly went viral triggering discussions on hierarchy decorum and the optics of elected representatives asserting authority in shared public spacesThis is not the first time the Sasthamangalam office has generated controversy Earlier disputes between Prasanth and Sreelekha over the premises had escalated into wider political arguments drawing party leaderships and the public into the frayThe latest development therefore is being viewed as a continuation of a rivalry that has shown little sign of settlingAdding another dimension to the row Sreelekha released a video statement responding to a complaint reportedly filed against her with Chief Minister Pinarayi VijayanAccording to her the complaint submitted by a lawyer alleges that she trespassed into the MLAâs office She said the Chief Minister forwarded the complaint to the State Police Chief for further actionQuestioning the intent behind the move Sreelekha alleged that the complaint was filed by a âCommunist lawyerâ and described the escalation as an attempt to intimidate herTogether the name board controversy and the complaint have once again thrust Sasthamangalam into the political spotlight underscoring how unresolved personal and political rivalries can spill into symbolic acts that challenge convention and keep tensions alive IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tiff-between-ex-dgp-turned-bjp-councillor-and-cpi-m-legislator-takes-new-turn-656733.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pu-scientists-develop-paint-additive-to-reduce-hospital-infection-656734.html Chandigarh Jan 2 Panjab University PU scientists have developed a special paint additive that can help reduce infections in hospitals an issue that has become critical after the Covid19 pandemic The innovation was granted an Indian patent on December 31 2025 The breakthrough led by Gaurav Verma of the Department of Chemical Engineering and Nanotechnology emerged from collaborative research during the Covid19 pandemic Avneet Saini from the Department of Biophysics Shubhi Joshi and MSc student Deeksha Sharma are the other members of the team The paint additive works by killing harmful bacteria on surfaces making hospital walls beds and furniture safer Importantly the material is nontoxic and does not mix into the air or surroundings making it safe for indoor use The patented paint technology has the potential to be widely used in hospitals and clinics to reduce infections and improve patient safety The idea took shape amid Covid19 when hospitalacquired infections claimed many lives especially during the delta wave of 202122 These infections often spread through touched surfaces such as walls beds and furniture and were also linked to serious complications like black fungus The story behind the innovation began in 2018 when Shubhi Joshi a food microbiologist approached Gaurav Verma for a PhD Although she had topped the PU PhD entrance test she could not get admission in her own subject Verma accepted her into his lab and gave her a challenging research problem involving very tiny materials known as nanomaterials During the pandemic the team continued working in the laboratory while maintaining physical distance and following Covid safety rules Their efforts led to the development of the antibacterial paint additive which was successfully completed in 2022 At present Shubhi Joshi is working as an ICMR Woman Scientist and continues to collaborate with the PU research team Verma said the innovation reflects his belief that every student has the ability to do meaningful science and that science should directly help society He added that paints should not only make buildings look good but should also help save lives IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pu-scientists-develop-paint-additive-to-reduce-hospital-infection-656734.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pli-scheme-for-textiles-last-application-date-extended-till-march-31-656736.html New Delhi Jan 2 The government on Friday announced to extend the deadline for submission of fresh applications under the Production Linked Incentive PLI scheme for textiles up to March 31 2026 According to the Ministry of Textiles the extension follows the significant response received since the application portal has been reopened in August 2025 with proposals being submitted by textile companies across priority areas including ManMade Fibre MMF apparel MMF fabrics and Technical TextilesThe decision underscores the growing investor confidence in Indiaâs textile sector and aims to facilitate wider participation by offering additional time to eligible applicants said the ministryMeanwhile Indiaâs textiles sector recorded a surge in investment and exports during 2025 fuelled by government incentive schemes and economic reforms to facilitate the ease of doing businessAs many as 74 applications were selected under the productionlinked investment PLI scheme for textiles The total proposed investment would be around Rs 28711 crore which is expected to generate a turnover of Rs 216760 crore and create employment for 259164 people Out of these applications participant companies have already undertaken investment in their projectsThe Textiles Trade Promotion TTP section has played a pivotal role in strengthening Indiaâs global textile footprint monitoring export performance through eleven Export Promotion Councils In 2024 India emerged as the 6th largest exporter of textiles and apparel with the sector contributing a significant 863 per cent share to Indiaâs total exports and accounting for 41 per cent of global tradeThe cotton sector a cornerstone of Indiaâs agricultural economy supporting nearly 6 million farmers and 40â50 million people across the value chain continues to play a pivotal role in textile production and foreign exchange earningsIn the cotton season 2024â25 the government through its nodal agency the Cotton Corporation of India Ltd CCI under Ministry of Textiles has successfully procured 525 lakh quintals of seed cotton 100 lakh bales under MSP operations disbursing Rs 37450 crore to farmers â covering 38 per cent of arrivals and 34 per cent of national production IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pli-scheme-for-textiles-last-application-date-extended-till-march-31-656736.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pli-scheme-for-textiles-last-date-for-fresh-applications-extended-till-march-31-656737.html New Delhi Jan 2 The government on Friday announced to extend the deadline for submission of fresh applications under the Production Linked Incentive PLI scheme for textiles up to March 31 2026 According to the Ministry of Textiles the extension follows the significant response received since the application portal has been reopened in August 2025 with proposals being submitted by textile companies across priority areas including ManMade Fibre MMF apparel MMF fabrics and Technical TextilesThe decision underscores the growing investor confidence in Indiaâs textile sector and aims to facilitate wider participation by offering additional time to eligible applicants said the ministryMeanwhile Indiaâs textiles sector recorded a surge in investment and exports during 2025 fuelled by government incentive schemes and economic reforms to facilitate the ease of doing businessAs many as 74 applications were selected under the productionlinked investment PLI scheme for textiles The total proposed investment would be around Rs 28711 crore which is expected to generate a turnover of Rs 216760 crore and create employment for 259164 people Out of these applications participant companies have already undertaken investment in their projectsThe Textiles Trade Promotion TTP section has played a pivotal role in strengthening Indiaâs global textile footprint monitoring export performance through eleven Export Promotion Councils In 2024 India emerged as the 6th largest exporter of textiles and apparel with the sector contributing a significant 863 per cent share to Indiaâs total exports and accounting for 41 per cent of global tradeThe cotton sector a cornerstone of Indiaâs agricultural economy supporting nearly 6 million farmers and 40â50 million people across the value chain continues to play a pivotal role in textile production and foreign exchange earningsIn the cotton season 2024â25 the government through its nodal agency the Cotton Corporation of India Ltd CCI under Ministry of Textiles has successfully procured 525 lakh quintals of seed cotton 100 lakh bales under MSP operations disbursing Rs 37450 crore to farmers â covering 38 per cent of arrivals and 34 per cent of national production IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pli-scheme-for-textiles-last-date-for-fresh-applications-extended-till-march-31-656737.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/up-bjp-mla-shyam-bihari-lal-dies-of-heart-attack-after-attending-official-meeting-in-bareilly-656739.html Bareilly Jan 2 Bharatiya Janata Party BJP MLA from Faridpur constituency in Bareilly district of Uttar Pradesh Dr Shyam Bihari Lal passed away on Friday after suffering a sudden heart attack He was 65 Dr Lal had earlier in the day attended a meeting chaired by Uttar Pradeshâs Animal Husbandry Minister Dharampal Singh at the Circuit House in BareillyThe meeting attended by public representatives and senior divisional officers was convened to discuss and outline development projects for this yearAccording to those who attended the meeting the MLA began feeling unwell during lunch following the meeting Soon his condition worsened Those present in the meeting rushed him to Medicity Hospital on Pilibhit Road However doctors declared him dead on arrivalForest Minister Arun Saxena who was also present at the meeting said Dr Lalâs health suddenly deteriorated during the meeting âHe was immediately taken to the hospital but unfortunately he could not be saved His demise is a great loss to the party and public lifeâ Saxena saidChief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow over the sudden demise of the senior BJP leaderIn his condolence message CM Yogi said âThe sudden demise of MLA Dr Shyam Bihari Lal from the Faridpur Assembly constituency of Bareilly district is extremely sad My humble tribute to him I extend my condolences to the bereaved family and pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed soul a place at his feet and give strength to the family to bear this immense sorrowâDr Shyam Bihari Lal was a respected figure in academic and political circles He had earlier served as a professor at Rohilkhand University and was known for his scholarly background He was elected MLA from the Faridpur Assembly constituency for two consecutive termsNews of his death sent a wave of grief across the Faridpur constituency with party workers supporters and local residents expressing shock and mourning the loss of a senior leader IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/up-bjp-mla-shyam-bihari-lal-dies-of-heart-attack-after-attending-official-meeting-in-bareilly-656739.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/haryana-gears-up-for-digital-census-2027-656741.html Chandigarh Jan 2 The Haryana government has formally initiated comprehensive preparations for the digital Census 2027 which will be the first fully digital census to be conducted in the state officials said on Friday The first meeting of the statelevel census coordination committee was chaired by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi during which detailed administrative logistical and operational arrangements were reviewed to ensure the smooth and timely conduct of the national exercise To ensure accuracy uniformity and credibility of data the Chief Secretary said that all administrative boundaries in Haryana have been frozen No changes will be made until the completion of census operations he added In line with the Indian governments guidelines the houselisting and housing census which constitutes PhaseI of Census 2027 that will commence from May 1 To strengthen preparedness at the district level a oneday conference of Deputy Commissioners will be convened shortly to sensitise Principal Census Officers about timelines responsibilities and detailed operational planning Emphasising the importance of meticulous preparation the Chief Secretary underlined that strong interdepartmental coordination and timely decisionmaking will be key to the successful execution of Census 2027 and called upon all departments to extend full cooperation To ensure continuity and avoid disruption it has been decided that census functionaries will not be transferred during the census period and necessary instructions will be issued in this regard For close monitoring and coordination at the grassroots Census 2027 will be included as a standing agenda item in monthly districtlevel review meetings Chief Secretary Rastogi added Census Director Lalit Jain told the committee that Census 2027 marks a transformational milestone as the entire exercise will be conducted in digital mode Demonstrating Haryanas technological readiness he said that a 100 per cent digital pretest using mobile applications was successfully carried out in Panchkula Hisar and Faridabad covering a population of more than one lakh The state completed the pretest within the stipulated timeframe for which it received appreciation from the Registrar General of India For the conduct of census operations around 60000 government employees preferably teachers and other government staff will be deployed as enumerators and supervisors during the first phase reflecting the scale and importance of the exercise The meeting also took note of changes in the administrative and demographic profile of the state since the 2011 Census For Census 2027 Haryana will have 23 districts as compared to 21 in 2011 while the number of subdistricts has increased from 75 to 94 Statutory towns have increased from 80 to 88 whereas census towns have declined from 74 to 51 Urban agglomerations have increased significantly from 12 to 20 The number of villages now stands at 6523 compared to 6841 in 2011 Houselisting blocks which were 45361 in 2011 are estimated to be around 51000 for Census 2027 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/haryana-gears-up-for-digital-census-2027-656741.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-school-job-case-ed-confiscates-assets-worth-rs-360-crore-of-state-minister-656744.html Kolkata Jan 2 The Enforcement Directorate ED has seized assets worth Rs 360 crore owned by West Bengal Minister incharge of micro small and medium enterprises and textiles department Chandranath Sinha in connection with his alleged involvement in the cashforschool job case in the state Sources aware of the development said that a total of 10 properties owned by the minister his wife and his son had been confiscated by the ED and the total market value of the properties is around Rs 360 croreâThe valuation has been fixed based on the price prevailing when these properties were registered However the current market price of these properties is almost double of what it was at the time of registration If the minister is unable to give definite proof of the source of funds for purchasing these properties then the same will be put on auctionâ said an insider from EDSinha also the West Bengal correctional services department minister had already been named as an accused in the chargesheet filed by the ED in the school job case The main charge against him was that he had collected a sum of Rs 1275 crore from different ineligible candidates promising them jobs of primary teachers in staterun schools of West BengalIn the chargesheet the ED had also claimed that the minister recommended a total of 159 ineligible candidates for jobs of primary teachers and on average he collected Rs 800000 from each of these candidatesâThere is a need for further questioning of the minister in the matter and hence there is a need to take him into custodyâ the central agency insider saidTo recall West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose had approved the EDâs chargesheet against Sinha in August last yearThe ED officials first secured the name of the Minister from the diary of the middleman and now suspended Trinamool Congress leader Kuntal Ghosh who was later arrested by the central agency officialsIn March 2024 the ED officials conducted a raid and search operations at the ministers residence at Bolpur in Birbhum districtAfter the raid the ED officials seized cash worth Rs 41 lakh and a mobile phone from Sinhas residenceSinha is known to be close to Trinamool Congress strongman and former Trinamool Congress district president in Birbhum Anubrata Mondal IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-school-job-case-ed-confiscates-assets-worth-rs-360-crore-of-state-minister-656744.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/agri-stack-farmer-registry-bihars-revenue-department-cracks-whip-over-slow-progress-656745.html Patna Jan 2 The Revenue and Land Reforms Department of Bihar government has adopted a hardline approach over the sluggish progress of the Farmer Registry under the Agri Stack project Departmental Secretary Gopal Meena has directed all Circle Officers Revenue Officers and revenue staff to complete bucket claims and Jamabandi land record verification in mission mode warning that negligence will not be toleratedDeputy Chief Minister and Revenue and Land Reforms Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha described the farmer registry as one of the state governmentâs most important and priority schemes stating that it will provide farmers with a digital identity ensure transparent implementation of agricultural schemes and enable timely delivery of benefitsThe department has expressed grave concern over the extremely low progress in land record verificationAccording to official data eKYC verification by the Agriculture Department is 31 per cent completed and bucket claims and Jamabandi verification by the Revenue Department are only 48 per centOfficials termed this performance unacceptable directing that the farmer registry be given topmost priority across all districtsThe Deputy CM made it clear that any laxity at any level will invite accountabilityHe emphasised that reviews being conducted in two phases under the Chief Secretaryâs supervision demonstrate the governmentâs seriousnessThe aim is to achieve 100 per cent farmer registry coverage statewideA statelevel review meeting will be held on January 3 2026 via video conferencing chaired by the Chief Secretary of BiharThe meeting will include District Collectors officials from the Agriculture Department and officials from the Revenue and Land Reforms DepartmentNotably the progress of this project is also being monitored at the central government levelTo accelerate implementation a twophase review schedule has been finalised The first phase will be held between January 69 and the second phase will be held on January 1821As per the instructions daily online work on bucket claims and Jamabandi verification is compulsory daily monitoring at the Circle Officer and Additional Collector levels and daily review at the headquarters levelTo remove technical hurdles the department has circulated districtwise and circlewise progress reports along with training videos and user manualsSecretary Gopal Meena reiterated that the success of the farmer registry is a missioncritical priority for the state government and instructed all officers to ensure speed accuracy and full compliance IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/agri-stack-farmer-registry-bihars-revenue-department-cracks-whip-over-slow-progress-656745.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-emerging-as-knowledge-economy-rajnath-singh-656746.html Jaipur Jan 2 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the purpose of education is not limited to professional success alone but it also aims to shape character morality and a humane personality âThis is the core spirit of the Indian philosophy of education which strengthens harmony and peace in societyâ said the Union Minister while speaking at a ceremony organised by Vidya Pracharini Sabha and BN Institute on the occasion of their 104th Foundation Day in UdaipurHe said that knowledge without values is incomplete adding that today India is emerging as a knowledge economy âIn the Global Innovation Index Indiaâs ranking has improved significantly from 76 in 2014 to 39 in 2024â he said adding Our universities are no longer just producing skilled human resources they are also earning global recognition and prestigeThe Defence Minister said that teachers are the strongest pillars of any effective education system adding that this is why the National Education Policy places special emphasis on empowering teachers making them capable confident and autonomous because empowered teachers are the foundation of a strong IndiaHe said that since ancient times the Indian knowledge system has been unique reflecting a harmonious balance between faith and science the material and the spiritual action and duty enjoyment and renunciation âThis balance makes Indian thought not only intellectually rich but also deeply relevant to practical lifeâ he said The Defence Minister said that India is progressing rapidly and is on track to become one of the top three global economies by 2030 He emphasised that the country has achieved significant selfreliance in the defence sector and weapon manufacturingâEarlier Indiaâs voice was often ignored globally but today when India speaks the world listensâ he said Sharing a personal reflection Rajnath Singh said that his entry into politics was coincidental and likened it to the phrase âHar Har Gangeâ symbolising an unexpected turn in life He added that despite being in politics the teacher within him remains alive He highlighted the importance of the New Education Policy which places teachers at the centre of nationbuilding He said values such as humility respect and selfdiscipline are essential for personal and national growth âOnly those who bow with humility truly riseâ he remarked Rajnath Singh also spoke about the traditions of unity and equality in the Armed Forces mentioning community meals and the importance of breaking hierarchical barriers to build trust and camaraderie During the event MLA Vishvraj Singh Mewar spoke about the historical contribution of the Mewar royal family to education especially girlsâ education Without naming anyone he called for strict action against those who misuse the names of great historical figures for political purposes After the programme the Defence Minister visited the City Palace where he was welcomed by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar a member of the former royal family IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-emerging-as-knowledge-economy-rajnath-singh-656746.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-mla-praises-police-action-in-chomu-incident-656748.html Jaipur Jan 2 Rajasthan BJP MLA Balmukundacharya on Friday commended the police administration for its prompt and decisive action against unruly elements involved in stonepelting and creating disorder regarding the recent Chomu incident He stated that such elements deliberately attempted to disturb peace social harmony prosperity and the ongoing development process in RajasthanThe action taken by the state government and the police he said sends a clear message that unlawful activities will not be tolerated under any circumstances MLA Balmukundacharya emphasised that those who follow rules and regulations will always benefit while individuals who choose to operate outside the framework of law will face strict action from the administration He added that maintaining peace and harmony is essential for progress and any attempt to disrupt the social fabric of the state will be dealt with firmly by the police Appealing to the public he urged citizens to actively participate in the development and prosperity of Rajasthan and to make full use of the welfare schemes launched by the central and state governmentsAccording to him these initiatives are designed to uplift every section of society and ensure inclusive growth He stressed that cooperation between citizens and the administration is crucial to achieving longterm development goals Referring to the transformation witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir MLA Balmukundacharya said that there was a time when stonepelting incidents were frequent in the region He said that however under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah a shift in approach replaced violence with opportunitiesHe said that by promoting education skill development and employment many youths were encouraged to choose constructive paths âAs a result Kashmir today is witnessing improvements in education trade and overall economic developmentâ he said He further stated that under the guidance of the central government and the leadership of Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma the state has seen historic development work over the past two years âInfrastructure projects welfare initiatives and administrative reforms have strengthened the foundation for future growthâ he saidHe also warned that if anyone attempts to derail this progress disturb public order or violate the law the administration will respond with firmness and responsibility Concluding his statement he reiterated that peace discipline and adherence to the rule of law are the keys to a prosperous Rajasthan and the government remains fully committed to safeguarding these principles IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-mla-praises-police-action-in-chomu-incident-656748.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ballari-violence-gunshots-fired-at-janardhana-reddy-ex-ktaka-minister-sriramulu-seeks-probe-into-cong-workers-death-656749.html Ballari Karnataka Jan 2 Former Karnataka Minister and veteran Bharatiya Janata Party BJP leader B Sriramulu on Friday alleged that gun shots were fired at mining baron and party MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy and that a petrol bomb was also hurled during the bannerrelated clash in Ballari which resulted in the death of a Congress worker We are not running away and will not seek anticipatory bail If a judicial probe is not possible a CBI inquiry should be ordered The guilty must be punished Sriramulu urgedHe was addressing a joint press conference at MLA Janardhana Reddys residence in Ballari with the latterSriramulu described the incident as deeply disturbing and unprecedented in recent timesCalling for an immediate probe into the Ballari violence Sriramulu demanded a judicial inquiry led by a sitting High Court judgeHe demanded that authorities ascertain whose weapon fired the fatal bullet and that bullets belonging to all gunmen including those providing security to the BJP leaders be accounted forHe also sought an immediate Forensic Science Laboratory FSL reportDemanding accountability from the Congressled state government for the death of the innocent youth in the Ballari violence Sriramulu asked why a large mob had gathered near Janardhana Reddys residenceHe alleged that more than 2000 people had assembled some carrying beer bottles showing utter disregard for the law and order system in the stateAppealing directly to Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy Sriramulu cautioned the former against aggressive politics saying You have a bright future but this kind of speed will only lead to an accidentHe asserted that the BJP would stand firmly with Janardhana Reddy and warned against giving the incident a political colourSriramulu said the incident that occurred on Thursday had caused immense pain to everyoneThings that should never have happened have taken place An innocent youth Rajashekar has lost his life Irrespective of whether he belonged to the BJP or the Congress he died in the firing I express my condolences and pray that his family gets the strength to bear this loss he addedSriramulu said there was no objection to the installation of banners but space had been sought for the movement of vehiclesHe alleged that the violent clash between the supporters of Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy and BJP MLA Janardhana Reddy was premeditatedThey supporters of Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy came with the intention of creating a fight When BJP MLA Janardhana Reddy arrived the situation suddenly turned violent Gunshots were fired at him which he himself narrated about Soon after the police arrived and dispersed the mob Sriramulu said adding that slogans intensified as the enraged mob gathered in huge numbersHe also alleged that even before the police intervention bodyguards of Congress MLA Satish Reddy an associate of Congress MLA Bharat Reddy had opened fire in a cinematic mannerSuch an incident had occurred in Ballari only once earlier in 1982 Now it has happened again Firing took place in public places Who gave the permission to fire Prima facie it appears the firing was carried out by them supporters of Congress MLA Bharat Reddy the BJP leader chargedSriramulu claimed that stones were hurled indiscriminately injuring several BJP workers and leadersWhen they Congress pelted stones our BJP workers also retaliated It was their gunmen who fired the bullets Satish Reddy is neither a sitting nor a former MLA yet he was carrying a gun This shows the extent of their Congress arrogance he allegedSaying that the BJP had appealed for peace Sriramulu said the firing was not carried out by the police but by private individualsSriramulu also alleged that Congress MLA Bharat Reddy had made provocative statements including threats to burn down BallariWhen statements are made about burning Janardhana Reddys house and turning Ballari into ashes it raises serious suspicion about who brought petrol bombs he saidHe appealed against dragging Maharshi Valmiki or any particular community into the controversy saying that no one was opposed to the installation of the statueThe situation in Ballari remains tense following the violent clash with police maintaining heightened security in the areaMeanwhile State BJP President and MLA BY Vijayendra visited the residence of former Minister Janardhana Reddy and the site where the clash occurred on Thursday in BallariWhat began as a dispute over installing party banners in Ballari on Thursday night escalated into a violent clash between two groups allegedly linked to BJP MLA Janardhana Reddy and Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy resulting in the death of a Congress workerThe situation intensified after Janardhana Reddy alleged that there was a conspiracy to assassinate him allegedly orchestrated by the family of Congress MLA Bharat ReddyFollowing the incident police imposed prohibitory orders in the area as a precautionary measureThe deceased has been identified as Rajashekar a supporter of Congress MLA Bharat Reddy IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ballari-violence-gunshots-fired-at-janardhana-reddy-ex-ktaka-minister-sriramulu-seeks-probe-into-cong-workers-death-656749.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 00:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/under-sail-on-course-indian-navy-on-insv-kaundinyas-voyage-toward-muscat-656750.html Mumbai Jan 2 The Western Naval Command WNC on Friday evening issued an update on the ongoing maritime voyage of stitchedship INSV Kaundinya to Muscat saying âUnder sail on courseâ âINSVKaundinya continues her passage across open seas âguided by wind skill and Indiaâs enduring maritime spiritâ said the WNC in a message on social media which also carried a video clip on the crew in actionOn Thursday Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi interacted with the crew âExtending New Year greetings Admiral Tripathi commended the crew for their professionalism and the efforts in undertaking this unique voyage rooted in Indiaâs maritime pastâ said a Navy official in a statementThe Navy Chief highlighted that the voyage of INSV Kaundinya is a testament to the Indian Navyâs enduring commitment to rekindling national maritime consciousness said the officialâBy reviving the millenniaold shipbuilding and seafaring traditions the expedition celebrates Indiaâs rich maritime heritage and reinforces the nationâs historic cultural and commercial links across the IndianOceanâ said the Navy in a social media messageEarlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended greetings to the crew of INSV Kaundinya on New Years Eve lauding their spirit and dedication as the country prepared to welcome 2026In a post on social media platform X the Prime Minister said he was delighted to receive a picture from the crew and conveyed his best wishes to them as they marked the New Year while sailing on the high seasDelighted to receive this picture from the team of INSV Kaundinya Heartening to see their enthusiasm As we are all set to usher in 2026 my special greetings to the INSV Kaundinya team which is on the high seas May the rest of their journey also be full of joy and success PM Modi saidThe post was accompanied by an image showing members of the crew standing on the deck of the vessel against the open sea with the shipâs distinctive sail visible in the backgroundINSV Kaundinya is a traditional sailing vessel inspired by ancient Indian ship designs depicted on historical seals and artefacts The ship is seen as a representation of Indiaâs long maritime tradition and its historic links with seafaring trade routes across the Indian OceanThe vessels voyages are aimed at navigation training as well as at highlighting Indiaâs civilisational connections with the seas including maritime trade and cultural exchange IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/under-sail-on-course-indian-navy-on-insv-kaundinyas-voyage-toward-muscat-656750.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/game-changer-experts-hail-approval-of-1st-oral-pill-for-adults-with-thalassemia-anaemia-656752.html New Delhi Jan 2 The US Food and Drug Administrationâs FDA approval of the firstever oral pill for anaemia in adults with thalassemia marks a historic milestone and can be a game changer in the management of the genetic blood disorder said health experts on Friday The FDA recently approved mitapivat to be marketed under the brand name Aqvesme for the treatment of anemia in adults with alpha or betathalassemiaMitapivat is the first medication indicated for both transfusiondependent and nontransfusiondependent forms of these rare inherited blood disordersWhile thalassemia patients have for decades relied largely on transfusions and chelation therapy the approval of mitapivat will lead to a meaningful shift in disease managementâMitapivat can be a big pathbreaking drug for thalassemia managementâ Dr Satyam Arora Additional Professor of Transfusion Medicine at Postgraduate Institute of Child Health PGICH Noida told IANSâThis new FDAapproved drug can be a game changer as this will help us manage patients with a single oral pill which can be easily taken and their blood transfusion requirements may be reducedâ he addedAccording to experts more than improving haemoglobin levels an oral option has the potential to reduce fatigue treatment burden and longterm complications while opening the door to more sustainable patientcentered careWhat is MitapivatMitapivat is a pyruvate kinase activator a firstinclass medication designed to improve the energy balance within red blood cellsIn patients with thalassemia red blood cells are fragile and break down prematurely leading to chronic anaemia and an ongoing dependence on blood transfusions By activating pyruvate kinase the drug enhances cellular energy production allowing red blood cells to survive longer and function more effectively As a result haemoglobin levels improve and the need for frequent blood transfusions begins to declineâFor the first time a drug has been developed that directly targets the metabolic pathway of red blood cells addressing the disease at its cellular core rather than only managing its consequences This breakthrough has the potential to significantly transform the quality of life for thalassemia patients across the worldand especially in India where the disease burden remains highâ said haematologist Dr Rahul Bhargava Member of the Delhi Haematology SocietyIndia is the thalassemia capital of the world Every eighth thalassemia patient in the world lives in India many of whom will require regular blood transfusions from infancy Blood availability transfusionrelated complications and iron overload remain persistent concernsWhile the Government has made significant progress in expanding access to bone marrow transplantation through public healthcare institutions the majority of patients still depend on lifelong transfusionsâThe new oral therapy offers hope not only for transfusiondependent thalassemia TDT patients but also for those with nontransfusiondependent thalassemia NTDT a group that has historically had limited treatment options By improving red blood cell survival and reducing anaemia the drug may help delay or even prevent the progression to transfusion dependence in some patientsâ Bhargava saidThe experts also expressed hope for the game changer drug to be available soon in IndiaâThese are very hopeful times for our thalassemia patients as well as the blood requirement burden in our country If the blood requirement in the thalassemic patient gets reduced this will significantly help manage the blood requirement in our country more efficientlyâ Arora saidâI see this as a huge ray of hope for patients of thalassemia in India provided expeditious access can be ensured We will also work closely with our doctors to find out the efficacy and suitability for various categories of patients In short this is good newsâ added Anubha Taneja Mukherjee Secretary of the Thalassemia Patients Advocacy Group IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/game-changer-experts-hail-approval-of-1st-oral-pill-for-adults-with-thalassemia-anaemia-656752.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/only-marathi-mandatory-in-maharashtra-cm-fadnavis-656754.html Satara Jan 2 Amid the ongoing election process for the 29 municipal corporations the Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday clarified that in Maharashtra only and strictly Marathi is mandatory He further noted that the tendency to oppose Indian languages while rolling out the red carpet for foreign languages is not rightHe explained that Marathi will remain the only mandatory language in school education within the stateâNo other Indian language will be compulsory they will remain optional The decision regarding the grade from which other languages should be introduced will be taken after receiving the report from the committee chaired by Dr Narendra Jadhav Marathi is not just a medium of communication it is the soul of Maharashtraâ said Fadnavis while speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the 99th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan All India Marathi Literary MeetHis clarification comes when the Shiv Sena UBT led by Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena founded by Raj Thackeray joined hands in July last year opposing the state governmentâs move to introduce Hindi as a third language in addition to Marathi and English from grade oneIn the wake of strong protests the government withdrew its two government resolutions in this regard saying that Hindi is an optional while Marathi is compulsory in the stateThe Chief Minister said that Marathi has always been a classical language adding that the Narendra Modi government has provided it with Classical Language Status for MarathiNow we must work to ensure this language gains public acceptance across all of India he addedHe added that âwhile we welcome foreign languages like English French and German we tend to oppose Indian languages This approach is incorrect while we must respect our own mother tongue we should also remain open to welcoming other languagesâHe credited the Warkari sect and Saint literature for truly enriching Marathi literatureMarathi is a language that connects hearts It is not just a language of devotion but a language of values he remarked adding that the role of writers is to provide direction to society and protect democratic expression within the literary worldThe Chief Minister stated that literature that remains loyal to the soil of Maharashtra while centring history society and humanity is the true identity of Marathi lettersHe reminded the audience that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj gave Marathi its administrative status by creating the Rajyavyavahar Kosh Administrative LexiconHe emphasised that the government is committed to the conservation of the Marathi language IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/only-marathi-mandatory-in-maharashtra-cm-fadnavis-656754.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-govt-mulls-menstrual-leave-for-college-students-656755.html Bengaluru Jan 2 Karnataka Minister for Higher Education MC Sudhakar on Friday said that an announcement on granting menstrual leave for college students would be made if directions are issued by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah The Minister made the statement in Bengaluru while responding to a media query on the issue He said that if the Chief Minister issues directions the government would announce menstrual leave for female students studying in colleges as well as postgraduate programmes in universitiesâOnce directions come from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah a decision will be taken and his word will be finalâ Sudhakar saidIt may be recalled that the Karnataka government recently announced oneday menstrual leave for working women under which women aged between 18 and 52 years are entitled to one day of paid leave every monthThe policy provides for a paid holiday to allow women to rest during menstruation and applies to permanent contractual and outsourced employeesThe government order in this regard was issued on November 12 2025 directing employers to provide a total of 12 paid menstrual leaves annuallyHowever the Karnataka High Court on December 9 issued an interim order staying the government notification directing registered industrial establishments to provide oneday menstrual leave for working womenThe interim order was passed while hearing petitions filed by the Bangalore Hotels Association and the management of Avirata AFL Connectivity Systems Limited challenging the government notificationLater the same day the High Court recalled its interim stay on the State governmentâs notification The matter is scheduled to be relisted after the winter vacation with the High Court resuming work from January 5The government notification issued on November 20 2025 mandated industrial establishments to provide paid menstrual leave to women employeesThe petition seeking to quash the government order stated that the establishments are registered under various labour laws including the Factories Act the Karnataka Shops and Commercial Establishments Act the Plantations Labour Act the Beedi and Cigar Workers Conditions of Employment Act and the Motor Transport Workers Act under which employees are entitled to only 12 days of leave per yearThe Karnataka Cabinet had approved the Menstrual Leave Policy 2025 in October last year granting women one paid leave per month IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-govt-mulls-menstrual-leave-for-college-students-656755.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-police-attach-properties-worth-crores-of-seven-illegally-residing-in-pakistan-656756.html Jammu Jan 2 Police in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district on Friday said they have attached 10 kanals and 15 marlas of land belonging to seven persons who are illegally residing in Pakistan In a statement the police said the attachment was carried out following orders of the Special Court Jammu Kathua Police executed attachment warrants against seven accused persons from Tehsil Lohai Malhar in Kathua district who are currently residing in Pakistan and are involved in FIR No 212024 registered under Sections 611 and 147 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita BNSS Sections 13 16 18 38 and 39 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and Sections 2 and 3 of the Enemy Infiltration and Movement Control Ordinance EIMCO Act at Police Station MalharThe police said proclamations had been issued against all seven accused who continued to remain absconding despite repeated noticesThe attached properties belong to Mohd Ayaz alias Adeel Ansari son of Ghulam Hussain resident of Lohai Malhar one kanal Abdul Kareem alias Bitta son of Abdul Sattar resident of Malhar Kathua 12 marlas Sarfraz Nawaz alias Nawaz Ahmad son of Mohd Saleem resident of Lohai Malhar Kathua one kanal and 10 marlas Mohd Farooq alias Farooq Ahmed son of Abdul Rehman resident of Lohai Malhar Kathua one kanal and five marlas Mohd Hafeez son of Mohd Bhatt resident of Lohai Malhar Kathua two kanals Gul Mohd son of Mohd Ramzan Khan resident of Lohai Malhar Kathua 15 marlas and Akhtar Ali alias Niku son of Mohd Saleem resident of Badnota Mora Arodha Tehsil Lohai Malhar Kathua three kanals and 13 marlasWith the assistance of the Revenue Department and after completing all legal formalities the immovable properties of the accused Jammu and Kashmir nationals presently residing in Pakistan were identified and attached under Sections 84 and 85 of the BNSS the statement saidOverall 10 kanals and 15 marlas of immovable property valued at several crores of rupees belonging to the seven accused persons have been attachedThe operation was led by SHO Police Station Malhar PSI Arun Shan under the guidance of SP Operations Upper Kathua Amir Iqbal and DySP PC Malhar Sunil Kumar and under the overall supervision of SSP Kathua Mohita Sharma IPSâThis action reflects the firm resolve of Kathua Police to act decisively against individuals involved in unlawful and antinational activitiesâ the statement said adding that the process of identifying and attaching properties of such offenders will continue in accordance with due process of lawKathua Police remains committed to upholding peace security and the rule of law in the region the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-police-attach-properties-worth-crores-of-seven-illegally-residing-in-pakistan-656756.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-rolls-out-two-key-finance-schemes-to-boost-msme-exports-656758.html New Delhi Jan 2 As part of the initial rollout of the Export Promotion Mission two key interventions under the Niryat Protsahan subscheme have been launched to strengthen MSME exports by providing affordable and easier access to trade finance the Commerce Ministry said on Friday The first intervention relates to interest subvention for pre and postshipment export credit aimed at reducing the cost of export credit and easing workingcapital constraints faced by MSME exporters a Commerce Ministry statement saidUnder this intervention interest subvention will be provided on pre and postshipment rupee export credit extended by eligible lending institutionsA base interest subvention of 275 per cent has been provided with a provision for additional incentive for exports to notified underrepresented or emerging markets subject to operational readinessThe interest subvention will be applicable only to exports covered under a notified positive list of tariff lines at the Harmonised System sixdigit level covering approximately 75 per cent of Indiaâs tariff lines and reflecting high MSME participation An exporterwise annual cap of Rs 50 lakh for each firm has been prescribed for FY 2025â26 The applicable rates will be reviewed biannually in March and September taking into account domestic and global benchmarks the statement saidThe positive list has been prepared using a transparent and datadriven methodology prioritising labourintensive and capitalintensive sectors MSME concentration and value addition while excluding restricted and prohibited items waste and scrap and products covered under overlapping incentive schemes Defence and SCOMETnotified products have been included to support strategic exports Detailed operational guidelines for this intervention will be issued by the Reserve Bank of India A pilot rollout will be undertaken with scope for refinement based on implementation feedback the statement saidThe second intervention under Niryat Protsahan relates to collateral support for export credit aimed at addressing constraints faced by MSME exporters and improving access to bank financeUnder this intervention a collateral guarantee support for export credit is being introduced in partnership with the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises CGTMSE Guarantee coverage of up to 85 per cent will be provided for micro and small exporters and up to 65 per cent for medium exporters with a maximum outstanding guaranteed exposure of Rs 10 crore per exporter in a financial yearThis intervention is designed to complement existing credit guarantee mechanisms and to increase bank lending to exportoriented MSMEs Detailed guidelines will be notified by the CGTMSE followed by a pilot phase and subsequent integration into a comprehensive revision of export promotion frameworksThe two interventions will be implemented on a pilot basis with continuous monitoring and datadriven refinementsThrough the Export Promotion Mission the government aims to lower the cost of exporting expand access to finance strengthen Indiaâs export brand and diversify export markets thereby enabling Indian exporters particularly MSMEs to integrate more deeply into global value chains and contribute to sustained exportled growth the statement saidThe Centre has launched a range of interventions under the Export Promotion Mission a flagship initiative approved by the Union Cabinet on November 12 2025 with a total outlay of Rs 25060 crore for the period from FY 2025â26 to FY 2030â31 The Mission seeks to strengthen Indiaâs export competitiveness with a sharp focus on MSMEs firsttime exporters and labourintensive sectors while supporting market diversification and promotion of valueadded exportsThe Export Promotion Mission is jointly implemented by the Department of Commerce the Ministry of MSME and the Ministry of Finance The Mission is structured around two integrated subschemes namely Niryat Protsahan which focuses on enabling access to affordable and diversified trade finance and Niryat Disha which supports nonfinancial enablers such as market access branding regulatory compliance logistics and trade intelligence IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-rolls-out-two-key-finance-schemes-to-boost-msme-exports-656758.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/revanth-reddy-spreading-falsehood-on-musi-rejuvenation-ktr-656759.html Hyderabad Jan 2 Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS working president K T Rama Rao on Friday accused Chief Minister Revanth Reddy of spreading falsehoods in the Assembly on the Musi River rejuvenation Rama Rao alleged that the Chief Minister is using the project as a cover for what he termed the âbiggest corruption conspiracy in Telanganaâs historyâKTR as the BRS leader is popularly known said the Chief Minister had no vision whatsoever to cleanse the Musi and remarked that poison runs through every nerve of Revanth Reddy driven by anger against those questioning his alleged illegal wealth and opposing the Musi project in its present formKTR also remarked that the language used by the Chief Minister was more foulsmelling than the polluted Musi itselfThe BRS leader questioned the credibility of the Chief Ministerâs claims asking how Revanth Reddy could announce expenditure figures touching Rs 15 lakh crore when the Detailed Project Report DPR by the governmentâs own admission would take at least another year to be preparedâIf the DPR is not ready how were such massive estimates announcedâ he asked demanding an explanation for why bulldozers were deployed to demolish the homes of the poor even before statutory planning and approvals were in placeThe statement alleged that under the guise of Musi âbeautificationâ the Congress government was preparing for a massive financial lootKTR accused the government of attempting to hand over key aspects of the project to Mainhardt a company allegedly blacklisted and facing Red Corner NoticesâHow can a firm with such a background be entrusted with a project of this scaleâ he asked calling it a deliberate conspiracy to facilitate corruptionKTR further charged that the Chief Minister had officially declared plans to demolish the houses of over one lakh people living along the Musi and render them homelessThis he said exposed the true character of the Congress governmentâCongress rule means demolitions not constructionâ KTR stated adding that while illegal guest houses allegedly built by ministers near Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar were left untouched poor families were being evicted without compassionHolding the Congress and TDP responsible for decades of neglect KTR said it was these parties who ruled the united state for nearly 60 years that polluted the Musi and turned it into a sewage drainHe pointed out that Revanth Reddy himself had served in both parties and could not disown their legacyHe also blamed previous governments for subjecting Nalgonda district to prolonged suffering due to polluted water and fluoride contamination asserting that it was only under BRS rule through Mission Bhagiratha that the fluoride menace was effectively addressedKTR challenged the Chief Ministerâs claim of bringing 20 TMC of Godavari water to the Musi asking him to clearly state whether that water was from KaleshwaramâIf it is he should bow his head and admit itâ KTR said accusing Revanth Reddy of running false propaganda against the Kaleshwaram project while silently depending on it for Musi rejuvenationThe BRS working president alleged that the real objective behind the Musi project was largescale real estate exploitationHe accused the government of forcibly evicting poor and middleclass residents from valuable lands in central Hyderabad to benefit benamis and loyalistsâFor this Chief Minister governance has been reduced to real estate dealingsâ he saidKTR said global tenders were earlier invited at minimal cost for Musi rejuvenation with nine reputed companies submitting detailed designsA comprehensive master plan was prepared at an estimated cost of about Rs 16000 croreâWith ready designs in hand restarting the process makes sense only if commissions are the motiveâ he alleged noting that estimates were being arbitrarily escalated from Rs 50000 crore to Rs 75000 crore and now to Rs 15 lakh crore even before execution began IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/revanth-reddy-spreading-falsehood-on-musi-rejuvenation-ktr-656759.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-captures-253-pc-of-all-proposed-investments-in-india-656760.html Amaravati Jan 2 Andhra Pradesh has firmly established itself as Indiaâs leading investment destination capturing a remarkable 253 per cent of all proposed investments in the first nine months of the financial year 202526 according to a report by Bank of Baroda The state now stands well ahead of peers such as Odisha 131 per cent and Maharashtra 128 per cent signalling a decisive shift in Indiaâs industrial and investment momentum toward the eastern and southern corridorsThe report highlights that over half of Indiaâs total proposed capital investment 512 per cent is now concentrated in just three states Andhra Pradesh Odisha and Maharashtra with Andhra Pradesh emerging as the clear frontrunnerOverall investment announcements across the country during the first nine months of the current fiscal touched Rs 266 lakh crore marking an 115 per cent increase compared to the same period last yearCommenting on this milestone on social media platform X Minister for IT Electronics and Communications Human Resources Development and RTG Nara Lokesh said âAndhra Pradesh isnât catching up itâs pulling ahead This is the result of consistent reforms speed in decisionmaking and an unambiguous commitment to investors Our focus has been clear create a predictable policy environment enable industry at scale and deliver on the groundâThe government attributed this performance to its investorfriendly governance emphasis on speed of approvals sectorfocused policies and strong infrastructure push across ports industrial corridors logistics energy and digital infrastructure Andhra Pradeshâs proactive engagement with global and domestic investors coupled with stable policies and executionoriented administration has translated into largescale investment commitments across manufacturing renewable energy electronics data centres mobility and core infrastructureReaffirming the governmentâs approach Nara Lokesh added that Andhra Pradesh would continue to build longterm partnerships with investors prioritise job creation and ensure that investments convert swiftly into onground projectsâEvery investment announcement must translate into factories jobs and economic opportunity for our peopleâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-captures-253-pc-of-all-proposed-investments-in-india-656760.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-files-final-chargesheet-in-bengal-municipalities-jobs-case-656761.html Kolkata Jan 2 The Central Bureau of Investigation CBI on Friday filed its final chargesheet in the multicrore cashformunicipalities jobs case in West Bengal at a special court in Kolkata In the final chargesheet the CBI has named Jyotishman Chattopadhyay an Indian Administrative Service IAS officer as an accused in the caseDuring the peak period of the alleged scam Chattopadhyay held key positions in the West Bengal Directorate of Local Bodies as well as the state Municipal Affairs and Urban Development DepartmentThe West Bengal Directorate of Local Bodies is the primary decisionmaking and implementing authority for recruitments in urban civic bodies including municipal corporations and municipalities across the stateSources aware of the development said that earlier CBI officials had conducted search operations at Chattopadhyayâs residence during which they seized crucial documents linked to his alleged role in the municipalitiesâ jobs caseThe final chargesheet has also named a corporate entity ABS Infozone Private Limited owned by middleman Ayan Shil as an accused Shil is considered a key intermediary in the municipalitiesâ recruitment scamOfficials of the Enforcement Directorate ED had first stumbled upon the municipalitiesâ jobs scam while conducting raids at Shilâs residence a couple of years ago in connection with the multicrore cashforschool jobs case in West BengalSubsequently the CBI initiated a probe into the municipalitiesâ recruitment irregularities following directions from the Calcutta High Court Shil was later arrested by the CBI in the caseInvestigators from the CBI and the ED which conducted parallel probes into the municipalitiesâ and school jobs cases have traced unauthorised assets worth over Rs 100 crore allegedly owned by ShilIn October last year the ED had informed investigators about the suspected involvement of shell companies used to divert the proceeds of crime According to sources the ED later received information about several companies linked to the municipalitiesâ recruitment corruption caseBased on these inputs ED officials carried out raids at multiple locations including Beliaghata in north Kolkata in October IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-files-final-chargesheet-in-bengal-municipalities-jobs-case-656761.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ysrcp-mp-urges-centre-to-ensure-safe-release-of-nine-fishermen-detained-by-bangladesh-656762.html Amaravati Jan 2 YSR Congress Party YSRCP MP Maddila Gurumoorthy on Friday urged the Union government to ensure the safe release of nine fishermen who were detained by the Bangladesh Coast Guard In a letter to the Ministry of External Affairs MEA the MP said that nine fishermen from Andhra Pradesh were apprehended by the Bangladesh Coast Guard in the mid sea of Bay of Bengal on October 21 2025 while they were operating a mechanised fishing vesselThe fishermen hail from Vizianagaram district and their families are in distress and undergoing mental agony he said and urged the Union government to use their offices to seek the release and safe return of the fishermenAccording to Gurumoorthy the fishermen inadvertently crossed the international maritime boundary near the West Bengal coast due to navigational lapses but were detained by the Bangladesh Coast Guard He said that there was no criminal intent involvedHe added the fishermen depend entirely on traditional fishing for their livelihood and that their prolonged detention has caused severe mental and financial distress to their familiesThe YSRCP MP from Tirupati added that Bangladesh is a signatory to international maritime laws and that provisions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea allow for the release of detained fishermen and vessels in such casesCiting humanitarian concerns Gurumoorthy appealed to the Centre and the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh to take immediate steps to resolve the issue and ensure the fishermens early releaseThe state government had said that eight fishermen from Vizianagaram district were detained by the Bangladesh Navy after their boat allegedly strayed into the neighbouring countrys territorial watersThe state government contacted the MEA through the Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in New Delhi to secure the release of the fishermenA special legal team of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka is providing legal aid for their releaseA charge sheet has been filed in Bangladesh against the fishermen prompting the Andhra Pradesh government to appeal to the Bangladesh Embassy for cooperation to allow continuous contact with the fishermens familiesUnion Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu took up the matter with the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar requesting steps for their swift return IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ysrcp-mp-urges-centre-to-ensure-safe-release-of-nine-fishermen-detained-by-bangladesh-656762.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-cracks-down-on-x-over-ai-driven-obscene-nude-amp-indecent-content-656763.html New Delhi Jan 2 The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology MeitY on Friday cracked down on X Corp for failing to prevent the generation and circulation of obscene nude and indecent content on its platform The government has directed X Corp to send an action taken report ATR towards immediate compliance for prevention of hosting generation publication or transmission sharing or uploading of obscene nude indecent and explicit content through the misuse of Albased services like Grok and xAlâs other services within 72 hoursThe directive states that noncompliance with these requirements shall be viewed seriously and may result in strict legal consequences against your platform its responsible officers and the users on the platform who violate the law without any further notice under the IT Act the IT Rules the BNSS the BNS and other applicable lawsThe ministry directed X to conduct a comprehensive review of Groks technical and governance frameworks to prevent the generation of unlawful contentIt said Grok must enforce strict user policies including suspension and termination of violators All offending content should be immediately removed without tampering with evidence it saidThe MeitY said noncompliance could lead to loss of safe harbour under Section 79 of the IT Act and trigger penal action under multiple laws including the BNS the Indecent Representation of Women Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences ActIn the letter to X the ministry said that it is of the view that the regulatory provisions under the Information Technology Act are not adequately adhered to by its platform in relation to obscene indecent vulgar pornographic paedophilic or otherwise unlawful or harmful content which are potentially violative of extant lawsThe aforesaid acts and omissions are viewed with grave concern as they have the effect of violating the dignity privacy and safety of women and children normalising sexual harassment and exploitation in digital spaces and undermining the statutory due diligence framework applicable to intermediaries operating in India the letter pointed outThe letter also states that it has especially been observed that the service Grok AI developed by X and integrated and made available on the X platform is being misused by users to create accounts to host generate publish or share obscene images or videos of women in a derogatory or vulgar manner in order to indecently denigrate them Importantly this is not limited to the creation of fake accounts but also targets women who host or publish their images or videos through prompts image manipulation and synthetic outputs Such conduct reflects a serious failure of platformlevel safeguards and enforcement mechanisms and amounts to gross misuse of artificial intelligence technologies in violation of applicable laws the letter statesA copy of the notice has also been sent to key ministries commissions and state authorities signalling coordinated action on obscenity that is being promoted through AI IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-cracks-down-on-x-over-ai-driven-obscene-nude-amp-indecent-content-656763.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pragati-driving-accountability-accelerating-project-implementation-cabinet-secretary-656765.html New Delhi Jan 2 Cabinet Secretary TV Somanathan on Friday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs flagship platform for ProActive Governance and Timely Implementation PRAGATI system has accelerated the implementation of mega projects and key welfare schemes The Cabinet Secretary highlighted the structured Project and Issue Escalation Mechanism under the PRAGATIled ecosystem which enables systematic monitoring and resolution of issues across multiple levels and state governmentsAccording to a Cabinet Secretariat statement Somanathan highlighted that initially issues are addressed at the Ministry level while complex and critical issues are escalated through defined institutional mechanisms for higherlevel review culminating at PRAGATI meetings chaired by Prime Minister ModiThe escalation framework ensures coordinated interministerial action timely decisionmaking and focused resolution of implementation bottlenecks in projects of national importanceSomanathan underscored that PRAGATI continues to serve as an effective platform for driving accountability and accelerating project implementation through close monitoring and review at the highest levelIn the last decade the PRAGATI platform has helped speed up projects worth more than Rs 85 lakh crore and resolved longpending issues through close coordination between the Centre and states PM Modi said on WednesdayWhile chairing the 50th meeting of PRAGATI PM Modi said the completion of 50 PRAGATI meetings reflects a major shift in Indiaâs governance culture where decisions are taken on time accountability is fixed and coordination between departments and states is strengthenedThe milestone meeting highlighted how technologybased monitoring and regular followup have changed the way governance works in IndiaThis approach has directly improved delivery on the ground and made government action more visible in peopleâs daily lives PM Modi saidDuring the meeting the Prime Minister reviewed five major infrastructure projects related to roads railways power water resources and coal These projects are spread across five states and involve a total investment of more than Rs 40000 crorePM Modi stressed the need to ensure timely execution and remove bottlenecks through continuous monitoring IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pragati-driving-accountability-accelerating-project-implementation-cabinet-secretary-656765.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-recorded-lowest-average-pm10-pm25-concentration-levels-in-2025-centre-656767.html New Delhi Jan 2 In 2025 Delhi recorded its lowest ever average concentration levels of Particulate Matter PM10 and PM25 since in 2018 Union Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change said on Friday It claimed that the daily average of PM10 in Delhi in 2025 was 198 µgmm3 as compared to 212 in 2024 and 242 in 2018The Ministry in a statement said the daily average of PM25 in Delhi in 2025 was 97 as compared to 105 in 2024 and 114 in 2018The Ministry shared data for eight years and said the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas CAQM since its inception in 2021 through a series of directionsadvisories and orders has initiated various policy measures and field actions towards abatement of air pollution in DelhiNCRThe Ministrys statement coincided with the decision of the CAQM SubCommittee on Friday to revoke restrictions under StageIII of the Graded Response Action Plan GRAPDelhis Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said that the citys improving air quality reflects persistent groundlevel efforts under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha GuptaDelhis Air Quality Index AQI which stood at 380 on Thursday was recorded at 236 on Friday marking a significant declineMinister Sirsa emphasised that even though GRAP StageIII restrictions have been lifted onground operations will continue with the same rigour and priorityThis is not the time to relax this is the time to double our efforts and consolidate the gains weve made Each small win fuels our motivation to make Delhis air cleaner every single day he addedIn the past year Delhi has advanced new pathways of pollution control from accelerating legacy waste biomining 35 MT per day to expanding cleantech interventions on industrial and transport fronts The unified effort is showing measurable impact Minister Sirsa saidIn the last 24 hours the Environment Department and associated civic agencies have reported a substantial increase in antipollution activities During this period 6596 challans were issued for vehicular emission violations 12000 MT of garbage was removed across city zones and 6261 km of roads were mechanically swept to reduce dust loadThe Minister noted that Delhis fight against pollution is ongoing and determined Each day we are learning adapting and improving The citys progress today inspires us to aim higher tomorrow he saidHe added that under Chief Minister Rekha Guptas leadership Delhis civic work on field has strengthened multifoldPollution control teams have focused on addressing sources directly from ensuring compliance at industrial clusters to deploying smog guns and antismog vehicles at trafficheavy stretches and hotspots Minister Sirsa said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-recorded-lowest-average-pm10-pm25-concentration-levels-in-2025-centre-656767.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mukesh-singh-is-new-dgp-ladakh-sd-jamwal-dgp-arunachal-pradesh-656768.html Srinagar Jan 2 Mukesh Singh was on Friday posted as the new DGP of Ladakh replacing SDSingh Jamwal who has been posted as DGP Arunachal Pradesh An order issued by the Union Home Ministry said âWith the approval of the competent authority posting of the following IPS officers of AGMUT cadre is ordered with immediate effect and until further ordersâMukesh Singh IPS AGMUT 1996 on repatriation from central deputation is posted as DGP Ladakh SD Singh Jamwal IPS AGMUT1995 DGP Ladakh has been posted as DGP Arunachal Pradesh replacing Anand Mohan AGMUT1994 who has been moved to DelhiMukesh Singh IPS was born on January 24 1971 in Bokaro Steel City of Bihar now in Jharkhand He is an officer of the erstwhile JampK cadre who has served as IGP Jammu Zone He is a BTech in civil engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi He joined the Indian Police Service in 1996 and has headed several sensitive assignments as district superintendent of police at Reasi Pulwama Poonch and Jammu during the peak of terror activitiesSD Singh Jamwal has a PhD in bioterrorism He was born on May 3 1969 in Purani Mandi locality of JampKâs Jammu cityHe is a senior Indian Police Service officer known for expertise in disaster management CBRN particularly biological defence and for leading initiatives like modernising police stations and promoting community engagement Appointed to the Ladakh Police Chief role in mid2023 he has received awards for his disaster response contributions and focuses on training police for complex emergencies while also overseeing local policing and infrastructure development in LadakhAnand Mohan IPS AGMUT1994 is known as an inspiring police officer committed to maintaining law and order with commitment and vision IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mukesh-singh-is-new-dgp-ladakh-sd-jamwal-dgp-arunachal-pradesh-656768.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vibrant-kutch-district-event-inaugurated-rs-8-500-crore-mous-signed-with-334-msmes-656769.html Gandhidham Jan 2 The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference marked another milestone on Friday with the grand inauguration of the Vibrant Kutch DistrictLevel Programme at the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Convention Centre in Gandhidham of Kutch district The event was inaugurated by the Gujarat Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia in the presence of the Minister of State for Higher and Technical Education Trikam B Chhanga and several prominent dignitariesDuring the ceremony 334 MSME units signed the Memorandums of Understanding MoUs worth Rs 8500 crore setting a strong tone for industrial and economic growth in the regionAddressing the gathering Minister Modhwadia said that the Vibrant GujaratâVibrant Kutch programme will infuse new energy into the entrepreneurial ecosystemHe lauded the resilience of the people of Kutch who despite natural calamities have turned the region into a thriving centre of developmentHe noted that under the Prime Minister Narendra Modis visionary leadership Kutch has transformed into a model of progress offering employment to lakhs of people across the countryKutch has immense potential to emerge as a global hub in renewable energy green hydrogen and the blue economy Minister Modhwadia saidHe added that with nearly 40 per cent of Indias cargo handled through Kutchs ports the region is also set to become a key centre for electronics manufacturing green hydrogen data centres and marinebased industriesHighlighting Gujarats preparedness for the future Minister Modhwadia said the state is building research and excellence centres in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence quantum computing and biotechnologyCalling this the Golden Period of Kutch the Minister urged industries to actively participate in green initiatives and contribute to increasing the regions green coverMinister of State Trikam B Chhanga in his address said that the Vibrant Gujarat initiative was first launched by the then Chief Minister Narendra Modi and has now successfully reached district levelsHe commended the Kutch administration and entrepreneurs for their contributions to development noting that challenges such as the 2001 earthquake and unemployment were transformed into opportunitiesKutch once known for its handicrafts and cottage industries is now becoming an industrial powerhouse he saidThe Minister of State also pointed out the trend of reverse migration with people returning to Kutch for new employment opportunitiesBJP Member of Parliament Vinod Chavda praised the Prime Minister Modis foresight saying that the Vibrant Gujarat vision has brought remarkable industrial progress to Kutch especially in ports minerals and chemicalsHe described Kutch as Gujarats unique district blessed with the confluence of desert sea and mountains and urged young entrepreneurs to support the Make in India and Vocal for Local movementsDeendayal Port Chairman SK Singh emphasised Kutchs key role in the Developed India Vision noting that the port is leading advancements in green hydrogen and shipbuildingIndustrialist Manish Kiri described Kutch as the economic powerhouse of Gujarat highlighting its potential in digital infrastructure seawater agriculture and advanced marine chemical industriesDP World Director Parag Kochar spoke about the significance of the blue economy and the vast opportunities for port development in the regionKutch District Collector Anand Patel said that Vibrant Gujarat once a small initiative has now grown into a banyan tree of industrial progress turning Kutch into the Land of Opportunity IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vibrant-kutch-district-event-inaugurated-rs-8-500-crore-mous-signed-with-334-msmes-656769.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-vigilance-arrests-forest-dept-official-for-rs-55-lakh-embezzlement-656770.html Bhubaneswar Jan 2 Odisha Vigilance on Friday arrested a Forest Department official on charges of embezzling government funds to the tune of over Rs 55 lakh The accused has been identified as Jaya Kumar Juad currently posted as a forester at the office of the Forest Range Officer Biswanathpur under Lanjigarh in Kalahandi districtJuad was arrested for allegedly misappropriating government funds amounting to Rs 5504607 by preparing fake muster rolls and vouchers in connection with Soil and Moisture Conservation SMC works at plantation sites under the Thuamul Rampur Forest Section in Kalahandi districtâThe investigation has revealed systematic embezzlement of government funds amounting to Rs 5504607 The accused while functioning as a forester allegedly manipulated funds earmarked for Soil and Moisture Conservation works during the 2024â25 periodâ Vigilance sources saidThe misappropriation involved highpriority environmental funds including those under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority CAMPA Compensatory Afforestation CA and Catchment Plan Area CPA schemesAccording to Vigilance officials Juad along with his accomplices allegedly bypassed financial safeguards at three plantation sites in the Thuamul Rampur Forest Section by fabricating muster rolls using the names of nonexistent labourers or by inflating work hours He is also accused of forging vouchers by submitting false bills for materials and logistics that were never procured or utilisedThe accused forester has been booked under various provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Amendment Act 2018 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS 2023 and will be produced before the courtMeanwhile in a separate case Odisha Vigilance arrested Adwaita Prasad Mallick former Principal and Badri Narayan Ray former President of Chitalo Degree Mohavidyalaya in Jajpur district in connection with another misappropriation caseMallick is currently serving as an Odia lecturer at the same institution The duo was arrested for allegedly misappropriating public funds amounting to Rs 3207620 meant for the selfdefence programme for girl students of the college IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-vigilance-arrests-forest-dept-official-for-rs-55-lakh-embezzlement-656770.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/drugs-valued-at-rs-20-crore-seized-at-india-pak-border-3-arrested-656772.html Jaipur Jan 2 Rajasthan Police on Friday arrested three smugglers and seized heroin valued at Rs 20 crore which was being smuggled into Sri Ganganagar an official said The official said that the police arrested three smugglers and recovered 488 kg of heroin along with the droneSri Ganganagar Superintendent of Police SP Amrita Duhan disclosed the details of the smuggling operation during a press conference held at Gharsana police station on Friday According to the SP the heroin consignment was sent from Pakistan via drone which crashed at the same location where the drugs were droppedOn the night of January 1 a police team from Rawla police station was conducting routine patrols when they spotted three youths behaving suspiciously near the 15 KND culvert on the canal bank The suspects were carrying a plastic sack On seeing the police vehicle they attempted to flee but were quickly surrounded and apprehended During the search police recovered 4 kg 88 grams of heroin packed in three packets and a DJI droneThe arrested accused have been identified as Jagnadeep Singh alias Labbu Singh 26 a resident of Chak 10 K Anupgarh Neetu Singh alias Ravneet Singh 21 a resident of Dabli Rathan Hanumangarh and Satpal Singh 27 a resident of Chak 04 STR Gharsana Police said 1019 grams of heroin were recovered from Jagnadeep Singh 2048 grams from Neetu Singh and 1021 grams from Satpal SinghThe drone used for crossborder smuggling was found in Satpalâs possession A case under the NDPS Act has been registered against all three accused Intensive interrogation is underway and officials expect significant revelations regarding the smuggling network and crossborder links With the assistance of the Border Security Force BSF a largescale search operation is also being conducted in nearby fields roads and suspected hideouts Following the seizure of such a large quantity of heroin security agencies have been placed on high alert In view of the growing use of drones for smuggling in border areas surveillance and monitoring have been further intensified IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/drugs-valued-at-rs-20-crore-seized-at-india-pak-border-3-arrested-656772.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 01:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/special-voter-registration-camps-across-tn-for-two-days-656792.html Chennai Jan 3 Special camps to facilitate voter registration are being held across Tamil Nadu for two days beginning on Saturday as part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision SIR of the electoral rolls The initiative comes in the wake of a largescale revision exercise that has resulted in the removal of a significant number of names from the states voter listAccording to official data around 9737 lakh names have been deleted from the electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision carried out in Tamil NaduAs a result the total number of registered voters in the State has declined to approximately 543 croreThe revision exercise aims to ensure greater accuracy in the voter database by removing duplicate deceased or ineligible entriesIn this context the process for adding new names to the voter list began on December 19As part of this drive special registration camps were organised earlier on December 27 and 28 at nearly 75000 polling booths across the State enabling eligible citizens to submit applications for inclusion or correction of their detailsOfficials said that the response so far has been encouraging Up to now 737 lakh people have applied for inclusion of their names in the electoral rolls while 9535 applications have been received seeking deletion of namesTo further widen outreach and ensure maximum participation special camps are once again being conducted today and tomorrow at all polling booths across Tamil NaduElection authorities have urged eligible citizens to use this opportunity particularly those who have recently attained voting age or whose names were removed during the revision processIndividuals who completed 18 years of age on January 1 this year as well as those whose names were deleted during the SIR exercise have been advised to submit Form 6 for inclusion in the voter listOfficials also outlined the upcoming schedule for the revision processSpecial correction camps will be held on January 18 to allow voters to seek rectifications in the draft electoral rolls Following this the final voter list will be published on February 17The Election Department has reiterated that an accurate and uptodate voter list is essential for free and fair elections and has appealed to all eligible citizens to actively participate in the revision process and verify their electoral details within the stipulated timelines IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/special-voter-registration-camps-across-tn-for-two-days-656792.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 11:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-govt-to-establish-third-largest-biodiversity-park-in-bengaluru-to-be-named-after-basavanna-656794.html Bengaluru Jan 3 Minister for Forests Eshwar Khandre announced that the Cabinet has approved the establishment of a 15339acre Biodiversity Park named after Vishwaguru Basavanna at a cost of Rs 250 crore He made the announcement while addressing the media after the Cabinet meeting late on FridayâBengaluru is known as the Garden City Lalbagh Botanical Garden was established in 1760 across about 240 acres and Cubbon Park was developed in 1870 on 197 acres in the city After Lalbagh and Cubbon Park no large gardens have been established in Bengaluruâ he saidHe said people need lung space as Bengaluru is increasingly turning into a concrete jungle âBengaluru should not become another gas chamber Establishing a large park in the city has been an unfulfilled dream of nature lovers for the past oneandahalf centuriesâ he saidMinister Khandre said that 153 acres of land in Madappanahalli near Yelahanka in the Bengaluru North area under the Karnataka Development Corporation has now been allotted for the projectâAt present eucalyptus and acacia trees are grown there After visiting the site the thought of establishing a Biodiversity Park crossed my mind I made efforts for nearly a year The land was taken back and a detailed project report for developing a Biodiversity Park over 15339 acres was prepared and presented before the Cabinetâ he saidThe total cost of the project is Rs 250 crore of which the Cabinet has approved Rs 50 crore for the first phase âIn this large Biodiversity Park medicinal plants will be grown A bird sanctuary interpretation centre and tree park will also be established For the benefit of children and students various species of trees will be planted and information boards displaying their names and benefits will be installedâ he saidHe said the park has been divided into five zones and it has been decided to utilise CSR funds from various companies with several firms already coming forward âShivaram Karanth Layout is located nearby and the population in this area may soon reach 2 to 25 lakh The park will come up in Bengaluru Urban district After becoming a minister this has been my dream project and I thank the Chief Minister Deputy Chief Minister and my Cabinet colleagues for approving the proposalâ he statedThe project is planned to be completed over three years âIn the first phase works worth Rs 50 crore will be completed The remaining stages will also be taken up simultaneouslyâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-govt-to-establish-third-largest-biodiversity-park-in-bengaluru-to-be-named-after-basavanna-656794.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 11:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/intense-cold-grips-jampk-night-temperatures-below-zero-throughout-valley-656795.html Srinagar Jan 3 Intense cold gripped Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday as the minimum temperature dropped below the freezing point throughout the Valley with water taps and water puddles freezing Srinagar city recorded the minimum temperature at minus 15 degrees Celsius Gulmarg minus 65 and Pahalgam minus 52Jammu city recorded 79 degrees Celsius Katra town 66 Batote 42 Banihal 27 and Bhaderwah minus 15 as the nights lowest temperatureWater taps in Srinagar city and other cities and towns in the Valley were frozen in the morning while water puddles on roads and streets froze due to the intense cold sweeping the ValleyCardiologists have cautioned people especially those with heart ailments not to venture out of their homes in the mornings Even during the day such people have been advised to wrap themselves in layers of warm clothesCardiologists said that the incidence of heart attack shoots up by about 20 per cent during the winter months in Kashmir due to increased blood pressure and enhanced blood platelet activityDespite the 40daylong period of harsh winter cold Chillai Kalan which started on December 21 a heavy snowfall has still not occurred in the Valley with the plains yet to witness the seasons first snowfall so farThe weatherman also does not have good news on this front as the weather is expected to remain cloudy cold and generally dry till January 20The Chillai Kalan will end on January 30 and if a major snowfall does not occur by that time then the summer months will be very testing times for the peopleSo far Jammu and Kashmir has faced a 39 per cent rain deficit this winter If the perennial water reservoirs in the mountains do not get replenished by heavy snowfall this winter there would be little water to sustain rivers streams springs lakes and wells during the hot summer months IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/intense-cold-grips-jampk-night-temperatures-below-zero-throughout-valley-656795.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 11:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/eci-gives-breakup-of-9146-lakhs-of-logical-discrepancy-cases-during-sir-in-bengal-656802.html Kolkata Jan 3 The Election Commission of India ECI has furnished a breakup of the 9146 lakh logical discrepancy cases identified in the course of progenymapping during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision SIR in West Bengal Voters identified as logical discrepancy cases are those in whose records unusual familytree data have been detected during progeny mappingAlthough initially at the end of the enumeration phase which was the first stage of the threestage SIR exercise the ECI had identified 136 crore logical discrepancy cases currently the number has been scaled down to 9146 lakhs after thorough evaluation of the initial listThese 9146 lakhs of logical discrepancy cases are in addition to 5820 lakhs of excluded voters and 30 lakhs of unmapped voters that is voters unable to establish any link with the 2002 voters list either through selfmapping or through progenymappingCurrently the cases of these unmapped voters are being heard by the Commission and in the next stage the logical discrepancy cases will be heardAccording to sources in the Chief Electoral Officer CEO West Bengal of the 9146 lakhs of identified logical discrepancy cases the maximum have been name mismatches with the 2002 list the last time when the SIR was conducted in West Bengal The figure on this count was 51 lakhsThe secondhighest category 24 lakh cases was related to six or more voters linked to a single fatherThe number of voters with age differences of just 15 years or even less than the age of their fathers was 475 lakhs Similarly the number of voters with age differences of 50 years or above than the age of their father is 841 lakhsIn addition to that there are three lakh voters whose age difference from their grandfather is 40 years or even lessTrinamool Congress had claimed that instead of clandestinely leaking information to the media persons about such logical discrepancy cases the Commission should issue a formal release giving the details of the matterThe draft voters list in West Bengal was published on December 16 last year The final voters list will be published on February 4 Soon after that the commission will announce the polling dates for the crucial Assembly elections in West Bengal scheduled this year IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/eci-gives-breakup-of-9146-lakhs-of-logical-discrepancy-cases-during-sir-in-bengal-656802.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 11:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/two-maoists-neutralised-in-ongoing-encounter-in-chhattisgarhs-bijapur-656803.html RaipurBijapur Jan 3 In a significant development in the ongoing antiMaoist operations in Chhattisgarhs Bastar region security forces have neutralised two Maoists on Saturday The forces are engaged in a fierce gunbattle with armed Maoists in the southern part of Bijapur district resulting in the recovery of two Maoist bodies so farThe encounter began at 500 am when a team from the District Reserve Guard DRG came under exchange of fire during a search operation in the South Bastar forestsAccording to police officials the operation started on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of armed Maoists in the areaThe DRG launched the operation leading to intermittent exchanges of fire that still continuePolice officials confirmed that the bodies of two Maoists have been recovered from the encounter site during the ongoing searchWeapons and other materials are expected to be seized as the combing operation progresses No casualties have been reported among the security personnel so farDue to the sensitivity of the operation authorities have withheld details such as the exact location of the encounter and the number of security forces involvedThe operation is still underway in a decisive phase To ensure the safety of our personnel engaged in the field sensitive information cannot be disclosed at this stage a senior police officer statedA detailed report including the identities of the Maoists recovered arms and further outcomes will be released once the operation concludes and the area is fully secured This incident is part of intensified antiNaxal campaigns in the Bastar division a longstanding Maoist stronghold Chhattisgarh has seen numerous successful operations in recent years significantly weakening Maoist networks through joint efforts involving DRG state police and central forcesThe state government and security agencies remain committed to eradicating leftwing extremism aligning with national efforts to make the region Naxalfree As the search continues in the dense forests additional reinforcements have been deployed to cordon off the area and prevent any Maoist escape IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/two-maoists-neutralised-in-ongoing-encounter-in-chhattisgarhs-bijapur-656803.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 11:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/eci-gives-breakup-of-9146-lakh-logical-discrepancy-cases-during-sir-in-bengal-656828.html Kolkata Jan 3 The Election Commission of India ECI has furnished a breakup of the 9146 lakh logical discrepancy cases identified in the course of progenymapping during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision SIR in West Bengal Voters identified as logical discrepancy cases are those in whose records unusual familytree data have been detected during progeny mappingAlthough initially at the end of the enumeration phase which was the first stage of the threestage SIR exercise the ECI had identified 136 crore logical discrepancy cases currently the number has been scaled down to 9146 lakhs after thorough evaluation of the initial listThese 9146 lakhs of logical discrepancy cases are in addition to 5820 lakhs of excluded voters and 30 lakhs of unmapped voters that is voters unable to establish any link with the 2002 voters list either through selfmapping or through progenymappingCurrently the cases of these unmapped voters are being heard by the Commission and in the next stage the logical discrepancy cases will be heardAccording to sources in the Chief Electoral Officer CEO West Bengal of the 9146 lakhs of identified logical discrepancy cases the maximum have been name mismatches with the 2002 list the last time when the SIR was conducted in West Bengal The figure on this count was 51 lakhsThe secondhighest category 24 lakh cases was related to six or more voters linked to a single fatherThe number of voters with age differences of just 15 years or even less than the age of their fathers was 475 lakhs Similarly the number of voters with age differences of 50 years or above than the age of their father is 841 lakhsIn addition to that there are three lakh voters whose age difference from their grandfather is 40 years or even lessTrinamool Congress had claimed that instead of clandestinely leaking information to the media persons about such logical discrepancy cases the Commission should issue a formal release giving the details of the matterThe draft voters list in West Bengal was published on December 16 last year The final voters list will be published on February 4 Soon after that the commission will announce the polling dates for the crucial Assembly elections in West Bengal scheduled this year IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/eci-gives-breakup-of-9146-lakh-logical-discrepancy-cases-during-sir-in-bengal-656828.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 17:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-mp-accuses-cong-of-engineering-1969-companies-act-donation-ban-reviving-it-in-1985-to-enable-black-money-656830.html New Delhi Jan 3 BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Saturday accused the Congress party of orchestrating the 1969 Companies Act amendments to ban chequebased donations after parliamentary exposure of 19601969 corporate funds exclusively benefiting the party in exchange for favours He alleged the party then reversed it in 1985 to facilitate both traceable and black money flows Sharing the copies of both the Bills in a post on X Dubey said Congress Party and Corruption in Donations When it came to light in Parliament that from 1960 to 1969 all businessmen had given donations only to the Congress party in exchange for getting work done then in a great hurry in 1969 the law was amended to increase the use of cash ie black money and cheques were shut downThen 16 years later in 1985 the law was changed again to restart the game of cheques and black money History itself is Chunar Fort he addedAttached images include scans of the 1969 Act prohibiting corporate political contributions under Section 293A a 1985 parliamentary debate transcript debating the bans repeal and the 1985 Act reinstating donations up to 5 per cent of average net profits with disclosure requirementsBefore 1969 companies were legally allowed to donate to political parties and during the 1960s most corporate donations went to the Congress party which was then politically dominantParliamentary discussions and public criticism highlighted quid pro quo links between business houses and the ruling party under the licenceâpermit systemIn response the Companies Amendment Act 1969 introduced Section 293A imposing a complete ban on corporate political donations officially to curb corruption and business influence in politicsHowever the ban did not stop money from entering elections Instead political funding increasingly moved underground with companies and parties relying on unaccounted cash and indirect channelsElection costs continued to rise through the 1970s and early 1980s exposing the limits of an outright prohibition without strong enforcement or transparency mechanismsIn 1985 the Rajiv Gandhi government amended the law again allowing companies to donate up to 5 per cent of their average net profits with board approval and disclosure in accounts IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-mp-accuses-cong-of-engineering-1969-companies-act-donation-ban-reviving-it-in-1985-to-enable-black-money-656830.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 17:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tension-in-jabalpur-over-derogatory-remarks-against-jain-community-656835.html Jabalpur Jan 3 A minor dispute at a popular sweet shop in Jabalpurs Kamaniya Gate area escalated into a major commotion leading to protests by members of the Jain community and a police lathicharge to disperse the crowd The incident originated at the renowned Sweet shop located near the historic Kamaniya Gate in the Kotwali police station jurisdiction on Friday nightComplainant Rajkumar Jain a local businessman alleged that he visited the shop with his parents and relatives to purchase itemsHe complained that an edible item served was cold leading to an argument with the shop manager The situation quickly deteriorated when the manager allegedly called staff members resulting in verbal abuse directed at Jains familyMore gravely as the police said objectionable and derogatory remarks were reportedly made against the Jain community as a wholeEnraged by the insults Jain and his companions confronted the staff leading to a physical altercationNews of the incident spread rapidly through the closeknit Jain community in the area Within minutes hundreds gathered outside the shop raising slogans demanding immediate action against the perpetratorsThe crowd grew uncontrollable with some attempting to enter the shop and confront those involved To prevent further escalation and restore order police forces from multiple stations over five intervenedAs the protesters refused to disperse and tensions mounted authorities resorted to a mild lathi charge Several people sustained minor injuries including some minors according to community members who claimed the protest was peaceful and accused police of onesided actionThe FIR has been registered based on Rajkumar Jains complaint and investigations are underway Three persons have been detained in the case and an FIR against the sweetshop owner and two others have been registered police officials saidJain community leaders condemned the alleged insults calling them an attack on religious sentiments They maintained that no vandalism occurred and criticised the lathi charge as excessivePolice officials stated that the action was necessary to control the mob and prevent violenceA SubInspector rank official has reportedly received injuries but the officials said they were awaiting medical reportsAdditional forces remain deployed in the area to maintain peace The historic Kamaniya Gate area a bustling commercial hub returned to calm by early morning IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tension-in-jabalpur-over-derogatory-remarks-against-jain-community-656835.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/towards-legacy-waste-free-state-gujarat-govt-targets-100-pc-waste-disposal-by-march-656848.html Gandhinagar Jan 3 Not just in the development index Gujarat is leading other states in setting up new milestones in waste management and is expected to realise its target of 100 per cent legacy waste disposal in the next two months The state government is marching steadfastly towards legacy wastefree Gujarat with a target of 100 per cent disposal by March 2026 with an aim to make the cities greener cleaner and livable guided by the mantra that urbanisation is not a problem but an opportunityA total of 30409 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste has been identified across the urban areas of which 27333 lakh metric tonnes have been scientifically disposed of so far The state government has intensified its cleaning drive and aims to achieve 100 per cent legacy waste remediation by March 2026The Urban Development Department has focused on improving cleanliness modern and sustainable infrastructure and the overall ease of living for people in cities contributing significantly to urban development Notably Gujarat has consistently led among major states in the scientific disposal of legacy waste accumulated in dumpsitesEffective legacy waste management a crucial aspect of urban development not only reduces pollution and health hazards but also converts reclaimed land into productive spaces supporting development projects and expanding green spacesBy clearing dumpsites across municipal areas the state government has reclaimed an estimated 902 acres of land The land will be put to productive use including constructing processing plantsNotably authorities have scientifically disposed of the BopalGhuma dump site in Ahmedabad and the Nakravadi dump site in Rajkot and established a Miyawaki forest This scientific disposal has significantly reduced methane emissions and effectively addressed the problems caused by waste burning at these sitesThe state government is taking decisive steps to strengthen environmental protection public health and urban development by scientifically disposing of accumulated legacy waste in cities said a government officialNotably under the Nirmal Gujarat 20 scheme Rs 75 crore has been allocated to Urban Local Bodies for legacy waste management Aligned with Swachh Bharat Mission Urban 20 the initiative is driving the state towards Garbage Free Cities IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/towards-legacy-waste-free-state-gujarat-govt-targets-100-pc-waste-disposal-by-march-656848.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/less-probe-more-propaganda-how-osman-hadi-killing-was-used-to-stoke-anti-india-sentiment-656849.html New Delhi Jan 3 The killing of antiIndia student leader Osman Hadi has turned into a spectacle with less probe and more propaganda The agencies have found that following the murder the game in Bangladesh was not to probe the incident but to externalise the issue Immediately after the murder the focus of Bangladesh was not on the probe Instead without any investigation being conducted Dhaka issued a statement stating that the accused had fled to IndiaAt the time of issuing that statement the probe had not even commenced and yet such a sweeping remark was madeThe Bangladesh foreign ministry then went on to summon the Indian High Commissioner and sought New Delhiâs cooperation to prevent the suspects from fleeing IndiaSyeda Rizwana Hasan the adviser at the Information Ministry said that India has assured Dhaka of extraditing Hadiâs killers if they had crossed over to IndiaThe statement came at a time when the Indian authorities and the West Bengal Police were making it clear that no such individuals had been arrested and there was no proof to suggest their presence on Indian soilAn official said that going by the sequence of events it became clear that these reactions by Bangladesh were deliberate They were aimed at fanning violence and launching a massive antiIndia campaign This was wellplanned and had the blessings of the ISI which is all over Bangladesh today the official saidSuch claims that Dhaka had made immediately ignited a wave of violent protests in the country Wellcoordinated mobs were already on standby to carry out these violent actsIn no time there were protests in Chittagong Dhaka and Rajshahi All the protests witnessed antiIndia slogans being raised They also demanded the extradition of Hadiâs killers A mob also marched towards the Indian High Commission in Dhaka while in Chittagong the residence of the Indian envoy was surroundedAn Intelligence Bureau official said that this was all staged to drum up an antiIndia rhetoric During this period several deepfake videos were in circulation that further contributed to the antiIndia sentimentDuring this period the Bangladesh foreign ministry continued to summon the Indian High Commissioner and reiterate the concern that India was sheltering Hadiâs killers This worsened the situation and the protests worsened and a huge antiIndia rhetoric was drummed upIt did not just stop at with antiIndia protests There was also sudden rise in the number of Hindus being attacked during this period This however continues till dateAdding fuel to the fire was a video which was promoted aggressively on X by a handle named Pakistan Defence This video had falsely claimed that Al Jazeera had confirmed Indian involvement in the Hadi killingAnother TikTok video also did the rounds in which two random people were shown and the claim was that they were Hadiâs killersIt was claimed that the killers were at Garo Hills in Meghalaya The false narrative was however busted when Faisal Karim Masud who has been branded as the killer released a video statement He claimed that he had run away from Bangladesh for the fear of being targeted He clarified that he had travelled to Dubai and not DelhiHe also said that it was the operatives of the JamaatShibir who carried out the murder He also said that the association with Hadi was purely related to business and nothing moreOfficials say that while all this took place the investigation into the killing was never the top focus The idea was to fan an antiIndia and antiHindu sentiment and the ISIbacked elements successfully managed to do just thatAnother official said that this entire drama was coordinated by the ISIâs Dhaka Cell The idea behind creating this false narrative is to ensure that every Bangladeshi turns antiIndia Further there is an attempt to create a volatile situation so that the elections are postponed The ISI wants to make it appear that all of Bangladeshâs problems are because of India officials say IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/less-probe-more-propaganda-how-osman-hadi-killing-was-used-to-stoke-anti-india-sentiment-656849.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/isi-stepping-up-espionage-disinformation-ops-against-india-intelligence-agencies-warn-656853.html New Delhi Jan 3 Indian Intelligence agencies have warned that the ISI would continue to try and expand its espionage network in India While many such cases were busted last year the agencies say that the Pakistan spy agency has been working relentlessly to expand the network In addition to this Pakistan also plans to run a massive disinformation campaign against IndiaCampaigns would be around spreading false narratives about the Indian armed forcesFurther the ISI also plans on roping in people as well some organisations to carry out protests while questioning policies of the government an official saidThis is part of the larger game plan of the ISI to make violence and terror as home grown as possible so that Pakistan would have the deniability factorAn official says running a false narrative instigating protests and creating deeper espionage networks is part of a larger plan and this also includes setting up of homegrown terror modules like the one that was busted in FaridabadPakistan is not immediately looking to sending its terrorists Post Operation Sindoor most of their terror networks are down Further infiltrations are hard to execute due to heavy securityIn addition to its India plans the ISI is also giving a lot of emphasis to Bangladesh where it wants to set up launch pads to hit the northeastern states another official saidAn Intelligence Bureau official said that among all the plans that the ISI has in mind the two most dangerous are the setting up of an espionage network and running a disinformation campaignPakistan is looking to engineer something on the lines of Bangladesh and Nepal where protests erupt across the country where a regime change would be demanded The campaign would look to defame the Indian armed forces so that the trust factor goes downThey want the armed forces to look weak in the eyes of the Indian people The ISI would also look to infiltrate every protest that is taking place so that it spreads far and wide while also turning violentIn the past the ISI has done it in some measure but now it would look to do something on a much larger scale the agencies have learntPakistan is also looking to build a massive espionage network Efforts to gather information especially about the armed forces have gone up multifold post Operation Sindoor the Intelligence Bureau official saidWhile honeytrapping would be the main tactic to build this network the ISI is also looking for people who have ideological leanings those who face financial hardships and ones with personal issues These persons are easy to trap as they remain vulnerableThe ISI is also ready to pump in a lot of money to build this network The information about the expansion of the espionage comes in the backdrop of reports that Pakistanâs army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir is itching for a war with IndiaThe war for Munir is important since he lost face in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor He wants to also use this as a tactic to divert from the major issues that Pakistan is facingFurther he feels that he would have the backing of the United States if there is a military conflict with IndiaThese remain major challenges explained an official while also adding that the agencies need to remain on very high alertRecently the Union Home Ministry launched the National Counter Terrorism Policy The National Investigation Agency which created a common ATS structure has sent it to the state police forces This structure ensures that there is uniform preparation at every levelUnion Home Minister Amit Shah had said that all director generals of police must implement it This policy is an important one in the wake of Pakistan trying to relentlessly meddle in Indiaâs affairs and also threaten its national security officials say IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/isi-stepping-up-espionage-disinformation-ops-against-india-intelligence-agencies-warn-656853.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/woman-doctor-sexually-harassed-near-pg-hostel-in-bengaluru-cctv-captures-incident-656854.html Bengaluru Jan 3 A woman doctor was allegedly sexually harassed by an unidentified miscreant at AGB Layout in Chikkabanavara in Bengaluru police said on Saturday According to the police the incident occurred when the doctor was returning to her paying guest PG hostel after completing her duty at a private hospitalShe had travelled to the hostel in an autorickshaw and after alighting walked a short distance towards the entrance of the PG hostelAt that time the accused approached her from behind on a scooter and allegedly asked for directionsAfter briefly moving away he parked the scooter returned on foot and sexually harassed the doctor by touching her inappropriately and verbally abusing herWhen the woman raised an alarm and shouted for help the accused fled the spotThe entire incident was captured on a CCTV camera installed near the PG hostel The footage shows the accused approaching the victim on a scooter and speaking to her before moving awayHe then takes a Uturn walks towards her again and embraces her touching her inappropriately despite her resistance and screams He is later seen running away as the victim raises her voice loudlyFollowing the incident an FIR was registered at the Soladevanahalli police station The police have recorded the statement of the victim and launched a search operation to trace and arrest the accusedPolice officials said the case was being treated seriously and assured that efforts are underway to identify the suspect using CCTV footage and other technical evidenceThe Bengaluru Police had arrested a delivery executive for allegedly sexually harassing a woman at a mall in Mahadevapura on December 25 at around 930 pm while she was celebrating Christmas with friendsThe accused has been identified as Manoj Chand 27 a native of Guwahati who works as a delivery executive in BengaluruPolice said he allegedly behaved indecently and intentionally touched the woman inappropriately in full public view amid the festive crowd The woman later filed a complaint at the Mahadevapura Police StationIn a separate incident on December 24 police arrested three youths for allegedly stalking and harassing a woman who was riding a twowheeler from Jayanagar Metro Station towards BTM Layout The accused include an 18yearold garage worker and two 19yearolds employed at a chicken shopOn December 31 an incident of a youth allegedly indulging in sexual harassment of a young woman passenger on a moving bus was reported from Karwar district in KarnatakaThe victim recorded a video related to the incident and appealed to women and girls not to remain silent when they face similar experiences urging them to raise their voices and stand up for themselvesThe 244minute video recorded by the victim has gone viral on social media and garnered widespread appreciation for her courageShe also tagged the police in the video after which action was taken IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/woman-doctor-sexually-harassed-near-pg-hostel-in-bengaluru-cctv-captures-incident-656854.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/new-assured-pension-scheme-for-govt-employees-teachers-in-tn-656857.html Chennai Jan 3 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Saturday announced the implementation of a new Tamil Nadu Assured Pension Scheme TNAPS for State government employees and teachers a move expected to impose an additional annual financial burden of around Rs 11000 crore on the State exchequer The announcement comes against the backdrop of longstanding demands by government employees and teachers for the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme OPSAhead of the 2021 Assembly elections the DMK had promised to reinstate OPS if voted to powerHowever nearly fourandahalf years after assuming office the government had not fulfilled that promise leading to growing discontent among employees and teachersThe issue had escalated in recent weeks with various employees and teachers organisations declaring an indefinite strike from January 6 making pension reform one of their primary demandsWith the Assembly elections approaching the government appears to have moved swiftly to defuse the situation by unveiling a new pension framework that it says incorporates key features of the old systemAccording to the Chief Minister the newly announced Assured Pension Scheme guarantees enhanced financial security for retirees while ensuring longterm fiscal sustainability for the StateUnder the scheme eligible State government employees will receive an assured pension equivalent to 50 per cent of their last drawn monthly salaryTo ensure this guaranteed payout the state government will bear the entire additional financial liability required for the pension fund along with the employees 10 per cent contributionThe scheme also provides for periodic dearness allowance DA revisions similar to those granted to serving government employeesPensioners will receive DA hikes every six months ensuring that pensions keep pace with inflationIn the event of a pensioners death 60 per cent of the pension last drawn will be paid as the family pension to the nominee or eligible family membersAdditionally upon retirement or death during service government employees will be entitled to a gratuity of up to Rs 25 lakh calculated based on the length of their serviceAnother significant feature of the scheme is the provision of a minimum pension to employees who retire without completing the qualifying service period after the new scheme comes into effect This is aimed at ensuring that no retiring employee is left without basic pension supportThe government has also announced special compassionate pensions for employees who joined the Contributory Pension Scheme CPS and for those who retired during the interim period without receiving any pension before the implementation of the new assured schemeBy introducing TNAPS the DMK government hopes to address employee concerns while balancing fiscal constraints even as opposition parties and employee unions closely scrutinise whether the new scheme truly matches the benefits of the Old Pension Scheme that many continue to demand IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/new-assured-pension-scheme-for-govt-employees-teachers-in-tn-656857.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cong-bjp-slam-uttarakhand-ministers-husband-over-bihar-girls-available-for-marriage-for-rs-25-000-remark-656858.html New Delhi Jan 3 A political storm erupted on Saturday after the husband of Uttarakhand Minister Rekha Arya allegedly made a controversial remark claiming that âBihar girls are available for marriage for Rs 20000 to 25000â Leaders from across political parties including the Congress BJP Samajwadi Party and JDU condemned the statement saying it has deeply hurt the sentiments of Biharâs population of 13 to 14 crore people The controversy follows a video that has gone viral on social media in which the ministerâs husband identified as Sahu is seen addressing a group of young people In the video he is allegedly heard saying âWill you get married in your old age If you are unable to get married we will bring a girl for you from Bihar you can get one there for Rs 20000 to 25000âThe remark has drawn widespread outrage for being derogatory misogynistic and insulting to women and the people of BiharSpeaking to IANS Congress MP Manoj Kumar said the statement has caused immense pain and anger among the people of BiharâOn the issue you are asking about Biharâs population of 13 to 14 crore has felt deeply affected We are all concerned and disturbed We want to hear from the Chief Minister â what he thinks what his reaction is and what action he intends to take This statement reflects extreme shamelessness Such remarks are not made unknowingly they are made deliberatelyâ he saidThe Congress MP further criticised the double standards of the BJPâThey should not stoop so low On one hand slogans like âBeti Bachao Beti Padhaoâ are raised and on the other hand such degrading statements are made about the daughters of Bihar Because his wife is a minister the law appears weak That is why we say the Constitution and democracy are under threat By making such statements they expose their real mindset No action has been taken so far and the administration seems to be ignoring the issue It is unacceptable We are waiting to see what the Chief Minister of Bihar the newlyappointed BJP National President and other senior leaders will sayâ he addedCongress spokesperson Surendra Rajput also strongly condemned the remark stating that it reflects the BJPâs mindset towards womenâThis incident clearly shows how the Bharatiya Janata Party views women They treat women as objects of exploitation and even talk about their buying and selling Otherwise after such a disgraceful statement both the man and his wife should have been behind bars by nowâ he saidSamajwadi Party spokesperson Ashutosh Verma said the incident raises serious questions about the BJPâs attitude towards women especially as the party is in power in both Uttarakhand and BiharâUnderstand that the BJP is ruling in both states Think about what BJP leaders have in their minds regarding women What is even more shocking is the silence of BJP leadership whether in Himachal Pradesh Uttarakhand or Bihar Such persecution has already begun I repeatedly say that women in this country have never faced such attacks on their dignity as they have under BJP leaders History bears witness to this Despite repeated incidents and statements against women leaders like Rajnath Singh have openly said they do not believe in taking resignations which is why such people feel emboldenedâ he saidResponding to the controversy Bihar Minister Dilip Jaiswal said such language cannot be justified under any circumstancesâA person who speaks in such a manner is neither worthy of being called someoneâs son nor someoneâs husband We strongly condemn such individualsâ he saidUnion Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey distanced the BJP from the remark and said such language does not reflect party valuesâSuch a statement could not have come from a BJP worker I am certain it has been influenced by someone else because no BJP worker can speak in this manner Today the daughters of Bihar and the honour of Bihar stand tall across the worldâ he saidBihar Minister Ashok Chaudhary described the statement as âcheap wrong and extremely objectionableââMaking such remarks in public life is unacceptable especially when the individual is connected to someone holding a respected public office This kind of language cannot be toleratedâ he saidBJP MP Yogendra Chandolia went a step further questioning the mental state of the person who made the remarkâRekha Aryaâs husband appears to have lost his mental balance and needs immediate medical attention I would advise Rekha Arya to take care of her husband at home and handle the matter personallyâ he saidJDU spokesperson Neeraj Kumar also condemned the statement and confirmed that formal action has been initiatedâThe language used by the husband of an Uttarakhand minister is unacceptable Even medically it is said that the brain can overheat in cold weather Such language is likely used by him even in personal spaces Therefore the State Womenâs Commission has written to the Uttarakhand government urging it to take appropriate action in this matterâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cong-bjp-slam-uttarakhand-ministers-husband-over-bihar-girls-available-for-marriage-for-rs-25-000-remark-656858.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indore-gets-new-municipal-commissioner-district-admin-starts-water-inspection-in-bhagirathpura-656863.html Indore Jan 3 Chief Minister Mohan Yadavled Madhya Pradesh government on Saturday appointed Kshitij Singhal a 2014 batch IAS officer as the new Commissioner of Indore Municipal Corporation A notification for appointment of Kshitij Singhal as the new Municipal Commissioner of Indore was issued by the State Chief Secretary Anurag JainSinghal has replaced Dilip Kumar Yadav who has been transferred from Indore on FridayThe development came a day after the Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered to suspend the Indore Additional Commissioner Rohit Sisoniya and Sanjeev Shrivastava who is the Superintendent Engineer Incharge of the Public Health Engineering departmentMeanwhile Indore district administration on Thursday started a survey to check the water quality being supplied through tankers in Indores Bhagirathpura area where contaminated water killed several people in the past one week and more than 200 were still admitted in multiple hospitals across the cityAlong with an extensive checking of water quality teams of district administration are also making residents of Bhagirathpura area aware about the use of safe drinking water to ensure the safety of people especially children and senior citizens who were the most affected due to the contaminated water supply tragedy in IndoreThe awareness campaign and inspection led by the Indore District Collector Shivam Verma began early morning on Saturday and it will continue till the eveningDuring the doortodoor visit officials are also inspecting water stored in underground and rooftop tanks built in the areaSpeaking to IANS District Collector Verma said that multiple teams of staff members have been deployed to conduct doortodoor inspection in BhagirathpuraA close monitoring is being carried out at the spot where the most number of people have been severly affectedOur team is continuously conducting investigations Wherever cases of food poisoning have been reported and patients have tested positive we have instructed all departments to carry out thorough inspections in the surrounding areas Along with this our water supply lines are also being checked District Collector Verma told IANSVerma also told that people admitted in hospitals are being provided better treatment and are recovering fastHe said that the condition of two out of 27 patients admitted in ICU wards were in critical state till Friday however they have recovered on SaturdayOver 200 people are admitted in more than 30 hospitals both government and private health care institutions in different parts of IndoreOn the other side more than 22 teams of medical staff are conducting health checkup through camps in the Bhagirathpura area IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indore-gets-new-municipal-commissioner-district-admin-starts-water-inspection-in-bhagirathpura-656863.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/amrapali-group-case-ed-attaches-rs-99-crore-assets-for-duping-homebuyers-656864.html Lucknow Jan 3 In fresh action against real estate player the Amrapali Group the Enforcement Directorate ED provisionally attached immovable properties worth Rs 9926 crore for fraudulently diverting and misappropriating homebuyersâ funds an official said on Saturday The immovable properties attached under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA 2002 include the office and factory land and building of Mauria Udyog Ltd which is one of the entities of the Sureka Group whose promoters are Navneet Sureka and Akhil SurekaThe aggregate fair market value of the seized office and factory land and building was Rs 9926 crore as on December 30 2016 the ED said in a statementThe ED has now passed a total of six Provisional Attachment Orders including the present one under Section 51 of the PMLA 2002 attaching properties having a cumulative value of Rs 30308 croreThe ED Lucknow Zonal Office initiated the investigation on the basis of multiple FIRs registered at different Police Stations in Gautam Buddha Nagar Uttar Pradesh and EOW Delhi Police and also pursuant to a Supreme Court orderOn July 23 2019 the Supreme Court passed the order in Bikram Chatterji versus Union of India matter that was related to petitions filed by aggrieved homebuyersThe allegations were that the Amrapali Group collected huge sums of money from homebuyers failed to deliver possession of flats within the stipulated time and fraudulently diverted and misappropriated the homebuyersâ funds by adopting a criminal conspiracy involving bogus transactions forgery and cheatingThe ED investigation revealed that the accused persons their associates and promoters â namely Anil Kumar Sharma Shiv Priya and Ajay Kumar Directors of the Amrapali Group â in connivance with Navneet Sureka and Akhil Sureka Directors of Mauria Udyog and Jotindra Steel and Tubes Ltd diverted homebuyersâ funds through nongenuine and fraudulent transactions under the guise of procurement of TMT bars and construction materialThe funds were layered through a complex web of shell entities and bogus suppliers withdrawn substantially in cash and irreversibly dissipated thereby generating and laundering the Proceeds of Crime POC the ED saidIt has been established that an amount of Rs11039 crore was diverted to Mauria Udyog representing POC generated from the money collected from Amrapali homebuyersAs the original POC were dissipated and no longer available for direct attachment the ED has attached the immovable properties of Mauria Udyog on the principle of âvalue thereofâ under the PMLA 2002 in order to secure the POCEarlier the ED had arrested Anil Sharma Shiv Priya and Ajay Kumar Directors of the Amrapali Group Anil Mittal Statutory Auditor of the Amrapali Group and Chander Prakash Wadhwa CFO of the Amrapali GroupSo far the ED has filed six Prosecution Complaints in this case arraigning 33 individuals and entities as accused IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/amrapali-group-case-ed-attaches-rs-99-crore-assets-for-duping-homebuyers-656864.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/police-in-jampks-budgam-act-against-24-people-for-violating-vpn-ban-order-656866.html Srinagar Jan 3 Police in Jammu and Kashmirs Budgam district said on Saturday that they have acted against 24 people for violating the ban order on the use of virtual private networks VPNs A police statement issued on Saturday said âIn continuation of efforts to enforce lawful orders and prevent the misuse of digital platforms Budgam Police have acted against the use of unauthorised Virtual Private Network VPN services across the districtâFollowing prohibitory orders issued by the District Administration on December 29 2025 banning unauthorised VPN usage Budgam Police carried out systematic verification and monitoringâDuring the period from December 29 2025 to January 2 2026 24 individuals were identified for violating these orders Based on investigation and technical analysis two FIRs were registered against individuals with adverse terrorrelated backgrounds underscoring the security risks posed by the misuse of encrypted platformsâAdditionally security proceedings were initiated against 11 individuals aged between 18 and 40 years for noncompliance with the prohibitory ordersâThey were bound down under Sections 126 and 170 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita BNSS and later released after due warningâBudgam Police reaffirm their commitment to maintaining public order enforcing lawful directives and preventing misuse of digital platformsâThe public is advised to strictly comply with all orders issued by the District Administration and to use digital services responsiblyâ the statement addedMost of the 20 districts in JampK have banned the use of VPNs with the concerned district magistrates stating that such networks were being used by antinational elements and that their misuse constitutes a security threatVPN stands for Virtual Private Network and refers to a technology that enables users to establish a secure network connection while using public networks VPNs encrypt internet traffic and disguise online identityThis makes it more difficult for third parties to track online activity and steal data as the encryption takes place in real time IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/police-in-jampks-budgam-act-against-24-people-for-violating-vpn-ban-order-656866.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-minority-commission-demands-arrest-of-accused-in-madhubani-muslim-labourer-assault-case-656869.html Patna Jan 3 The Bihar State Minority Commission has demanded the immediate arrest of all accused and strict legal action in connection with an alleged mob assault on a Muslim labourer in Madhubani district The Commission has termed the incident a serious case of communal violence and lawlessnessThe incident occurred in Teachka village under Rajnagar police station in Madhubani district and came to light after a video of the assault went viral on social mediaThe victim has been identified as Mohammad Murshid Alam a resident of Shankarpur village Ward No 14 under Bhimpur police station in Supaul districtAccording to the Commission Mohammad Murshid Alam was living in a rented house in the Rehmatganj area along with other labourersAll of them were engaged in government drain construction work in Ward No 44 of Madhubani district under a contractor named Manish SinghThe Commission stated that on December 30 2025 some antisocial and criminal elements from Teachka village allegedly driven by religious prejudice falsely identified the victim as a Bangladeshi nationalThe accused allegedly forced him to chant objectionable religious slogans abducted him on a motorcycle and took him to the side of a pond near a Durga temple where around 50 individuals openly assaulted him plucked his religious symbol beard used barbaric and brutal religious indicator words making his entire body bloody with a preplanned manner to kill himHe was seriously injured and has been admitted to the hospital where his condition is reported to be criticalTaking serious note of the incident the Bihar State Minority Commission has demanded an immediate registration of an FIR against all accused under relevant sections of law including provisions related to mob violence prompt arrest of all persons involved strict action in accordance with Supreme Court guidelines on mob assault and financial assistance to the victimâs family as per the Bihar governmentâs prescribed relief normsThe Commission has also directed that it be informed of the action taken by the district administration and police authoritiesThe incident has raised serious concerns over communal targeting mob violence and the safety of migrant labourers working on government projectsMeanwhile Madhubani Superintendent of Police SP has ordered strict action against the accusedA case has been registered at the Rajnagar police station in MadhubaniRegarding this incident AIMIM national spokesperson Adil Hasan said that beating an Indian citizen by calling him a Bangladeshi is a failure of law and order and an attack on humanityHe demanded the immediate arrest of the culprits and justice for the victim IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-minority-commission-demands-arrest-of-accused-in-madhubani-muslim-labourer-assault-case-656869.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/drug-addiction-a-major-challenge-says-jampk-divisional-commissioner-656872.html Srinagar Jan 3 Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg said on Saturday that drug addiction is a major challenge facing Jammu and Kashmir Speaking to reporters here the Divisional Commissioner said that drug addiction is a major warning signal that calls for a united response to tackle the growing menaceGarg called it one of the gravest social issues that Jammu and Kashmir is facingHe said The problem has intensified rapidly and the issue has multiplied three times in the last three and a half years which is alarming Government is expanding its antidrug awareness campaign to involve all stakeholders including religious leadersA very big awareness campaign is going on in Jammu and Kashmir and the Chief Secretary is personally monitoring it he saidHe said that extensive programmes are being organised by IMHANS in which counsellors are being trained across health and educational institutionsFiveday training sessions are being held to build a strong network for early intervention and preventionHe added that all sections of society are joining hands in this effortWe are trying to involve all religious leaders of Srinagar in this fight so that they can also inform society about this problem They have already been a part of this campaign for a long time but we are giving new energy to it he saidThe Divisional Commissioner said helpline numbers of IMHANS are being circulated widely to assist those seeking helpWe continuously support the callers who approach us This training programme helps us enhance that assistance he addedIn the 1970s the Department of Psychiatry was established in the Government Medical College Srinagar and this mental health facility was converted into the Government Psychiatric Diseases Hospital an associated hospital of the Government Medical College SrinagarIn 2009 under the NHMP the hospital was selected for upgradation to the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences IMHANSPresently the government Psychiatric Diseases Hospital Srinagar has two components a 100bedded IMHANS at Rainawari Srinagar and a 30bedded Community General Hospital Unit located within SMHS premisesThe hospital has a diagnostic section where tests such as Routine Hematology Routine Biochemistry Serum Electrolytes Serology EEGElectroencephalography and ECTElectroconvulsive Therapy are performed IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/drug-addiction-a-major-challenge-says-jampk-divisional-commissioner-656872.html Sat, 03 Jan 2026 18:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-glorious-past-shaping-its-global-future-says-eam-jaishankar-656641.html Chennai Jan 2 IANS External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar on Friday challenged young minds at the IIT Madras to see India not just as a nation of the present but as a civilisation shaping the global futurenbspWhile addressing the students and faculty at IIT Madras on various subjects including democracy diplomacy and Indias growing international role his address painted a powerful picture of a country rooted in ancient wisdom yet confidently navigating modern global challengesEAM Jaishankar also outlined Indias unique trajectory as a civilisational power and its role in shaping a modern multipolar worldnbspIndia is among the very few ancient civilisations that has successfully evolved into a modern nationstate the EAM saidnbspHe noted that this continuity provides the country with a strong historical consciousness and a distinct global outlook differentiating it from nations that emerged more recentlyThe Union Minister emphasised that Indias decision to adopt the democratic political mode at the time of Independence transformed the system from a Westernexclusive model into a universal conceptnbspHe said that Indian democracy remains deeply linked with cultural and social diversity ensuring the nation stays both inclusive and representativenbspOn the front of foreign policy and regional security the EAM maintained a firm stance on national sovereigntynbspHe asserted that India possesses the right to defend itself and will independently determine its response to any threats or acts of terrorism that endanger its citizensnbspClear communication in diplomacy is essential to prevent misunderstandings between nations the Union Minister added highlighting Indias preference for partnerships based on mutual respect and transparent dialogueReflecting on recent global challenges EAM Jaishankar pointed to Indias humanitarian efforts during the Covid19 pandemicnbspHe described the provision of vaccine assistance to other nations as a significant global contribution showcasing Indias commitment to international stabilitynbspEAM Jaishankar urged the academic community to maintain a global perspective while remaining rooted in Indian values https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-glorious-past-shaping-its-global-future-says-eam-jaishankar-656641.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 15:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-flags-alarming-trend-of-educated-people-indulging-in-anti-national-activities-656643.html Udaipur Jan 2 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that an alarming trend of whitecollar terrorism is emerging in the country wherein highlyeducated people are engaging in antisocial and antinational activities Singh pointed at the November 10 car bomb blast near the Red Fort in Delhi where the perpetrators were found to be doctorsnbspToday an alarming trend of whitecollar terrorism is emerging in the country Highlyeducated people are working against society and the country Singh said at the 104th foundation day event of Bhupal Nobles University hereThe perpetrators of the Delhi bomb blast were doctors those who write Rx on prescriptions yet have RDX in their hands This highlights the need for knowledge to be accompanied by values and character the defence minister saidnbspThe purpose of education is not only professional success but also the development of morality ethics and human character he saidnbspThe explosivesladen i20 car that detonated outside the Red Fort on November 10 killing 15 people was driven by Dr UmarunNabiThe probe unravelled a whitecollar terror module leading to the arrests of three doctors Muzammil Ganai Adeel Rather and Shaheena Saeed among othersnbspnbspSingh also said that many defence startups are doing remarkable work in the countrynbspI am confident that in the next 1520 years India will become fully selfreliant in weapons the defence minister saidnbspHe also said that artificial intelligence machine learning and other technologies are transforming peoples lives and work and they must be used positively to drive Indias developmentnbspIndia is the worlds fourthlargest economy which is on track to become the thirdlargest by 2030 Singh said noting that universities have a big role to play in this journeynbspHe also emphasised the importance of understanding the delicate balance between selfrespect and ego and urged people not to cross the fine line between the twonbspnbspWhile the feeling of selfrespect is important it should never transform into arrogance Singh saidAgencies https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-flags-alarming-trend-of-educated-people-indulging-in-anti-national-activities-656643.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 16:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-says-remarks-abroad-show-disconnect-from-indias-roots-656647.html New Delhi Jan 2 IANS Those politicians or leaders who speak ill about India while being on foreign soil bringing embarrassment for the country as well as countrymen remain disconnected and detached from the countrys roots said Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta taking a dig at the Leader of the Opposition LoP in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on FridayDelhi CMs critical remarks for the Congress leader came while addressing the inaugural event of Delhi Shabdotsav the threeday literary and cultural festival underway at the citys Major Dhyan Chand StadiumnbspAddressing the gathering the Delhi CM spoke at length about the importance of staying connected and taking pride in the countrys civilizational legacy and its ethos and mocked any attempts to show the nation in bad light abroad a direct reference to Congress MP Rahul Gandhis controversial and contentious remarks made during his visits to universities and public forums interactions in the Western worldIts only when you are disconnected from the countrys roots and its civilisation you tend to use unwelcome and disrespectful words against the nation otherwise there is no reason to do this she said without taking the Congress leaders nameThe Chief Minister sharing her delight over the organisation of Shabdotsav one of the largest cultural and literary festivals in the country said that such a grand event has never been held on a government platformnbspToday India is engaging with its past present and future simultaneously And it has undertaken a historic journey from the Vedic age to the digital age and this festival of words is a witness to it she remarkedFurther admiring the countrys rich legacy and civilisational strength she said that India has been attacked many times but it has always stood tall and withstood all challenges with braverynbspThe world tried many times in many forms to attack our knowledge civilisation and culture But our roots were very strong which is why we still stand solid today she addednbspShe also underlined her governments focus in the past year on celebrating every festival with full fervour and holding historical icons in high esteem https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-says-remarks-abroad-show-disconnect-from-indias-roots-656647.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/illegal-ward-delimitation-by-state-govt-punjab-bjp-tells-guv-seeks-intervention-656648.html Chandigarh Jan 2 IANS A highlevel delegation of the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP Punjab led by Ashwani Sharma MLA and working state President on Friday called on Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria here and submitted a memorandum seeking intervention against the allegedly arbitrary hasty and illegal ward delimitation being carried out by the state government for Municipal Corporations and Municipal Councils across the statenbspThe BJP delegation told the Governor that the ongoing ward delimitation exercise is being conducted in undue haste without transparency and in blatant violation of statutory rules and constitutional principlesThe party in its memorandum claimed that no proper doortodoor population survey has been conducted and that the proposed wards show an unnatural and unexplained decline in population figures across urban local bodies raising serious doubts about the authenticity of the data usedThe delegation further pointed out gross violations of the principles of continuity and contiguity with geographically disconnected areas being arbitrarily clubbed togetherSerious concerns were also raised regarding the alleged misuse of reservation norms wherein wards with lower Scheduled Caste and Backward Class populations have been reserved while areas with their higher concentration have been declared general wardsImportantly the BJP delegation drew attention to the Census notifications issued in connection with the 16th Census of India which clearly mandate the freezing of municipal and ward boundaries during census operations notifications issued under the authority of the Governor himselfDespite this the state government is proceeding with delimitation in clear violation of these directions the BJP said The delegation requested the Governor to summon the complete record from the Department of Local Government and direct the state government to strictly adhere to census notifications statutory provisions and constitutional norms thereby safeguarding democratic values and the rights of the people of Punjab https://dailyworld.in/national/illegal-ward-delimitation-by-state-govt-punjab-bjp-tells-guv-seeks-intervention-656648.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bulldozer-action-in-rajasthans-chomu-after-stone-pelting-incident-656666.html Jaipur Jan 2 A largescale bulldozer drive is underway in Rajasthans Chomu following notices issued to 20 illegal slaughterhouses in Pathansâ Mohalla with the administration also preparing action against unauthorised constructions Heavy police deployment has been put in place to maintain law and order with senior officers monitoring the situation on the ground The action comes in the wake of a dispute over alleged encroachment near a mosque in Chomu during which incidents of stonepelting were reportedFollowing the violence the police pasted notices on the houses of 24 accused stonepelters directing them to submit their response within three days The deadline expired on December 31 after which the municipal council was authorised to initiate demolition proceedings Two companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary RAC along with district police forces remain deployed in the area under the supervision of DCP Hanuman Prasad Meena to prevent any breach of peaceMost of the houses were locked while residents present at a few locations declined to speak to reportersLocals expressed mixed reactions some supported strict action against those involved in violence while others demanded that innocent residents should not be targetedSpecial Police Commissioner Jaipur Rahul Prakash said that efforts are ongoing to identify all those involved in the stonepelting incident Nineteen accused have been arrested so far and more names have surfaced during interrogationPolice collected video footage from the night of the incident which is being examined to identify additional suspects Authorities have not ruled out the involvement of people from outside the state and investigations are underway to ascertain their presence and motive if anySunil Kumar Swami Assistant Accounts Officer of the Chomu Municipal Council said that on December 29 the council issued a threeday notice regarding 20 illegal slaughterhouses and four unauthorised constructionsHe had stated that if the concerned parties fail to respond submit valid documents or remove the illegal structures themselves the council will proceed with demolition and sealing actions as per rulesChomu police have arrested the following individuals in connection with the stonepelting case Mukhtar Ali 32 Aakib 24 Mohsin Khan 35 Umar Beg 30 Zaheen Khan 19 Haider Ali 28 Sameer 21 Abid 22 Salman 22 Arbaz 26 Kamran 24 Tahir Alam 40 Jabaz 28 Fardeen 24 Shahrukh 19 Faizan Khan 19 Javed Khan 31 Javed Qureshi 23 and Wasim Qureshi 36The authorities have made it clear that strict action will continue against those involved in violence and illegal activities while security forces remain on alert to ensure peace in the area IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bulldozer-action-in-rajasthans-chomu-after-stone-pelting-incident-656666.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/under-operation-milap-delhi-police-traced-1-303-missing-people-children-in-2025-656673.html New Delhi Jan 2 In a significant achievement during the past year the Delhi Police traced a total of 1303 missing people in 2025 including 434 minors and 869 adults The SouthWest District Police traced the people as part of their sustained efforts under Operation Milap an initiative aimed at finding missing individuals and reuniting them with their familiesIn December alone the SouthWest District Police successfully traced 102 missing people comprising 35 missing or kidnapped children and 67 missing adults They were traced between December 1 and December 31 through coordinated search operations and intensive fieldworkAccording to a statement released by Amit Goel IPS Deputy Commissioner of Police SouthWest District the police teams worked relentlessly to reunite 35 missing or kidnapped children and 67 adults with their familiesHe said that immediate action was taken upon receiving reports of missing or kidnapped individuals with local police stations promptly launching search operationsThe police relied heavily on local intelligence and extensive field enquiries CCTV footage from nearby areas was examined and photographs of missing children adults and suspects were circulated at public places such as autorickshaw stands erickshaw stands bus terminals and railway stations Enquiries were also conducted with bus drivers conductors vendors and shopkeepers to trace the movement of missing individualsIn addition local informers were roped in to assist the police during search operations Records of nearby police stations and hospitals were thoroughly checked to gather any possible leads These combined efforts played a crucial role in locating the missing peopleAs a result of these swift coordinated and wellplanned actions the SouthWest District Police successfully traced 102 missing persons and children during DecemberBrief details of the successful operations carried out at various police stations during the period are as followsPolice Station KapasheraDuring the period the staff of Kapashera Police Station traced 12 missing girls in the age group of 10 to 18 years In addition five missing adults four males and one female were also traced All recovered individuals were safely reunited with their familiesPolice Station Palam VillageThe staff of Palam Village Police Station traced four missing children including two boys and two girls aged between 10 and 18 years Additionally 13 missing adults eight males and five females were located All individuals were successfully reunited with their familiesPolice Station Vasant Kunj NorthDuring this period one missing minor girl was traced by the staff of Vasant Kunj North Police Station Along with her five missing adults three males and two females were also located and reunited with their familiesPolice Station SagarpurThe staff of Sagarpur Police Station traced eight missing children including two boys and six girls in the age group of 10 to 18 years In addition 16 missing adults four males and 12 females were also traced All recovered individuals were reunited with their familiesPolice Station KishangarhStaff of the Kishangarh Police Station traced one minor Additionally three missing adults one male and two females were also located and reunited with their familiesPolice Station Vasant Kunj SouthThe staff of Vasant Kunj South Police Station traced three missing children including one boy and two girls aged between 10 and 18 years Seven missing adultsâthree males and four femalesâwere also recovered All were reunited with their familiesPolice Station RK PuramDuring the period the staff of RK Puram Police Station traced two missing females Both were successfully reunited with their familiesPolice Station Vasant ViharFour missing adultsâtwo males and two femalesâwere traced by the staff of Vasant Vihar Police Station All recovered individuals were safely reunited with their familiesPolice Station Sarojini NagarThe staff of Sarojini Nagar Police Station traced one missing minor girl In addition five missing adultsâtwo males and three femalesâwere also located All were reunited with their familiesPolice Station SJ EnclaveFour missing adults two males and two females were traced by the staff of SJ Enclave Police Station and reunited with their familiesPolice Station South CampusTwo missing children including one boy and one girl aged between 10 and 18 years were traced by the staff of South Campus Police Station Both children were reunited with their familiesPolice Station Delhi CanttThe staff of Delhi Cantt Police Station traced three missing children one boy and two girls aged between 10 and 18 years Additionally three missing adult females were also found All individuals were safely reunited with their families IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/under-operation-milap-delhi-police-traced-1-303-missing-people-children-in-2025-656673.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat-to-visit-bhopal-today-656674.html Bhopal Jan 2 The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will be on a twoday visit to Bhopal beginning Friday to attend events at two venues Kushabhau Thakare Convention Centre and Ravindra Bhavan During the visit which is part of the 100year journey of the RSS Mohan Bhagwat will be addressing the gathering of social and religious leaders youth and women in Bhopal in different sessions on January 2 and 3The RSS chief will hold Yuva Samvad interaction and a Pramukhjan Goshthi interaction with prominent citizens on Friday followed by a Samajik Sadbhav Baithak social harmony meeting and a Shakti Samvad interaction with women the next day SaturdayAccording to a senior RSS functionary in Bhopal youths from all 31 districts of the prants 16 districts as per the administrative structure who have made notable contributions and achieved distinction in various fields will participate in the programmeThe RSS functionary said that interaction with prominent citizens will be held at an auditorium in Ravindra Bhavan in which reputed personalities from various fields from the Bhopal division have been invitedBhagwat will also address a Samajik Sadbhav Baithak that will be organised at the Kushabhau Thakre Convention Centre on Saturday with participation from prominent members of different communitiesThis will be Bhagwats fifth visit to Madhya Pradesh in the past 10 months according to a statement issued by the RSS office recentlyNotably on Wednesday Bhagwat urged citizens to rise above divisions of caste wealth and language and to treat everyone as ones ownThe RSS chiefs comments assume significance when outrage had been growing over the killing of Angel Chakma a student from Tripura in Dehradun following alleged racial abuseBhagwat reiterated the need for social unity and equality stating that the entire country belongs to everyone and that harmony is central to Indiaâs identity IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat-to-visit-bhopal-today-656674.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/clear-sky-brings-down-minimum-temperature-in-jampk-cold-wave-intensifies-656675.html Srinagar Jan 2 Due to a clear night sky the minimum temperature dropped throughout Jammu and Kashmir on Friday and the Meteorological MeT Department has forecast cloudy but mostly dry weather for the next 48 hours Srinagar city had one degree Celsius Gulmarg minus 7 and Pahalgam minus 62 degrees as the minimum temperatureJammu city had 6 degrees Celsius Katra town 65 Batote 28 Banihal minus 11 and Bhaderwah minus 28 degrees as the nightâs lowest temperatureThe MeT Department has forecast generally dry weather from January 2 to January 5The 40daylong period of intense winter cold called the âChillai Kalanâ started on December 21 and so far this season there has been no snowfall in the plains of the Valley The upper reaches and some tourist spots including Gulmarg Sonamarg witnessed snowfall on New Years Eve much to the delight of touristsEarth scientists say that the absence of heavy snowfall during the 40daylong Chillai Kalan would spell disaster during the summer monthsAsked when snowfall has already occurred in the mountains how could problems arise in the coming summer months the scientist said âIt is very simple When there is a foot of snow on the ground in the plains it is reasonable to expect that the higher reaches could have received five to seven feet of snow When places like Gulmarg and Sonamarg receive less than a foot of snow how can the perennial water reservoirs in the higher reaches get replenishedâLocals have been eagerly looking forward to this seasonâs first snowfall in Srinagar Budgam Ganderbal Anantnag Kulgam Pulwama Shopian Baramulla Bandipora and Kupwara towns Children in these towns and cities are missing all the fun connected with the first snowfall of the seasonFor environmental reasons locals are praying with folded hands for a plentiful snowfall this winter The MeT forecast also suggests dry weather while the Chillai Kalan will end on January 30 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/clear-sky-brings-down-minimum-temperature-in-jampk-cold-wave-intensifies-656675.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/man-arrested-for-playing-anti-national-song-on-loudspeaker-near-temple-in-palghar-656677.html Palghar Jan 2 The Maharashtra Police have arrested a 25yearold man for playing the provocative song âKashmir Banega Pakistanâ at high volume near a temple in Chinchoti in Palghar sparking outrage among residents According to the FIR registered at Naigaon Police Station SubInspector Pankaj Kilje while patrolling the area in a private vehicle around 130 pm heard the antinational song blaring from Ruhann Hair Cutting Salon in Karamdpada located opposite the Durga Mata MandirThe song streamed via Bluetooth from a mobile phone to the salonâs loudspeaker and audible on the street was considered a serious threat to Indiaâs sovereignty unity and public peace with the potential to incite enmity and communal tensionUpon entering the salon SI Kilje found two individuals Guljari Raju Sharma 51 a local resident and salon worker and Abdul Rahman Sadruddin Shah 25 originally from Gauri Sirajpur village in Lalganj Azamgarh Uttar Pradesh Investigations revealed that Shah was streaming the song from the YouTube app on his Techno Spark Go 2021 phoneLocals angered by the incident detained Shah and handed him over to the police The content of the song was subsequently verified on his device by authoritiesThe incident caused considerable tension among residents in the busy Chinchoti neighbourhood given its proximity to the Durga Mata Mandir Following the verification the police registered a First Information Report FIR against Shah under BNS Section 1971d for acts prejudicial to national integration Shah was arrested immediately while no charges were reported against Sharma the salon workerPolice have stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident Authorities emphasised that acts threatening national unity or inciting public unrest would not be toleratedThis case highlights growing concerns over the circulation of provocative content in public spaces and the need for vigilance to maintain communal harmony particularly in sensitive neighbourhoods IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/man-arrested-for-playing-anti-national-song-on-loudspeaker-near-temple-in-palghar-656677.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/faifa-urges-government-to-roll-back-steep-tax-hike-on-tobacco-products-656680.html New Delhi Jan 2 The Federation of All India Farmer Associations FAIFA on Friday urged the government to roll back the notified excise rates on tobacco products and revise them to revenueneutral rates to disincentivise smuggling and support domestic agriculture A stable taxation framework FAIFA noted in a statement is necessary to sustain farmer incomes protect employment across the value chain and align economic policy with longterm public health goalsThe Ministry of Finance notification âChewing Tobacco Jarda Scented Tobacco and Gutkha Packing Machines Capacity Determination and Collection of Duty Rules 2026â has imposed an excise duty of Rs 2050Rs 8500 per 1000 sticks depending on cigarette length effective February 1FAIFA said such a steep hike in taxes would force domestic manufacturers to raise prices of finished goods which will lead to a drop in sales hurting farmers supplies in return This could cause a glut in the tobacco crop market in the near term it addedâWhile announcing GST 20 on September 4 2025 Government had assured that in the case of tobacco products GST would be charged at 40 per cent of the retail sales price while the overall incidence of tax would be kept unchangedâ said Murali Babu President FAIFAHe further added that the farming community across India has been holding on to this assurance of revenue neutrality and had welcomed the governmentâs decision to rationalise GST by restructuring rates and doing away with the 12 per cent slab which helped reduce pricesAppealing to the government FAIFA leaders stressed that Indiaâs legal cigarette prices are already among the least affordable globally when measured against per capita income as reflected in World Health Organizationâs WHO affordability indexCurrent steep increase will render legal products unaffordable to a huge section of consumers accelerating consumer migration to illegal channels it argued FAIFA appealed to the government to ensure that taxation policies do not punish those who have always remained within the law IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/faifa-urges-government-to-roll-back-steep-tax-hike-on-tobacco-products-656680.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cong-worker-death-case-ktaka-police-say-bullet-fired-from-private-revolver-656682.html Ballary Karnataka Jan 2 Tension escalated in Karnatakaâs Ballari district after a Congress worker was shot dead and the police said that the bullet was fired from a private revolver The deceased was identified as Rajashekar Incharge Superintendent of Police SP Ranjit Kumar Bandaru stated on Friday that the police have registered four cases in connection so far including a murder case that has been filed following a complaint by Congress workers The family of the deceased has filed a complaint against some BJP leadersThe Congress MLA from Ballari city Nara Bharat Reddy has alleged that the firing was carried out at the behest of mining baron and BJP MLA Janardhana Reddy and demanded his immediate arrestThe police have imposed prohibitory orders in the areas surrounding the residence of mining baron and MLA Gali Janardhana ReddyIt may be recalled that supporters of MLAs Janardhana Reddy and Bharat Reddy clashed over the installation of banners to celebrate Valmiki Jayanti in front of Janardhana Reddyâs residence on Thursday night Janardhana Reddyâs supporters opposed the installation of the banners resulting in a quarrel that escalated into stone pelting lathi charge and firing by both police and private gunmenIn the ensuing chaos Congress worker Rajashekar sustained a bullet injury and later died The police had earlier stated that it was not clear who fired the fatal shotSpeaking to the media SP Ranjit Kumar stated âThe postmortem of the deceased Congress worker has been completed According to preliminary information the bullet that hit the Congress worker was not fired by the police Preliminary investigations have revealed that it was fired by a private person We are further investigating and awaiting the report from the Forensic Science Laboratory FSL Further inputs will be shared laterââWe have made all security arrangements for his funeral The situation is peaceful now Additional forces have been called in from neighbouring districtsâ he saidâThe bullet that killed Rajashekar was fired from a private revolver The investigation is ongoing and we are gathering detailsâ the SP statedâWe have collected all CCTV footage and are analysing it So far four cases have been registered Supporters of MLA Bharat Reddy have filed a complaint of murder in connection with the death of Congress worker Rajashekar From the side of MLA Bharat Reddyâs close aide Satish Reddy another complaint has been registered for attempt to murderâ SP Ranjit Kumar saidAnother individual has filed an atrocity case against Janardhana Reddy The police have also registered a suo motu case against all those involved Further investigation is underway he addedGiving details of the incident SP Ranjit Kumar said âYesterday January 1 in the Ahambhavi area in front of Janardhana Reddyâs residence a quarrel broke out over the installation of a flex banner in connection with the Valmiki statue inaugurationâThere was stone pelting between supporters of MLAs Janardhana Reddy and Bharat Reddy An accidental firing incident also occurred in which a Congress worker died This led to an escalation of tension The police have taken control of the situation and dispersed the crowdââIt cannot be termed a police failure The police responded immediately when the incident occurred There was a sudden development of events and people gathered quickly Initially the situation could not be brought under control but it was later reined inâ the SP statedPolice sources said that more than 12 rounds were fired during the clashes The police also found chilli powder and piles of stones on the roadsThe deceased Rajashekarâs father had worked for the BJP while Rajashekar was associated with the Congress MLA Bharat Reddy had staged a protest in front of Janardhana Reddyâs residence after the shootingEshwar Reddy brother of the deceased Rajashekar said the incident occurred when his brother was with MLA Bharat Reddy âMy brother Rajashekar was with the Congress party My father was a follower of BJP leader Somashekara Reddy We have filed a complaint against the BJPâ he saidThe situation continues to remain tense and volatile in Ballari city IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cong-worker-death-case-ktaka-police-say-bullet-fired-from-private-revolver-656682.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-police-summons-cricketer-for-displaying-palestine-flag-during-local-match-656683.html Jammu Jan 2 The JampK Police said on Friday that they have summoned a local cricketer for displaying the Palestinian flag on his cap during a local match Police said that a local cricketer and the organiser of a private cricket tournament have been summoned for questioning after the flag was seen displayed during a match played in JammuOfficials said that a cricketers helmet bore the Palestine flag in front and the cameras picked it up when he was batting in the middleOne cricket player and organiser of the tournament has been called for questioning by JampK Police regarding the use of the Palestine flag on his helmet during a cricket match at a private tournament in Jammuâ officials saidOfficials said that the police are now trying to figure out the circumstances under which the Palestinian flag was displayedThey said the cricketer summoned for questioning has been identified as Furqan BhatThe incident occurred on Wednesday during a match between JK11 Kings and Jammu Trailblazers in the ongoing Jammu and Kashmir JampK Champions League cricket tournament By questioning the cricketer and organiser of the tournament the police are trying to determine whether the necessary permissions were obtained or notIt is also being determined whether there were any tournament guidelines violations and what the true intent was behind displaying the flag during a sporting eventâIt has also been confirmed that the tournament under scrutiny is a privately organised local league and is not affiliated with any national or international cricket bodyAccording to police no action has been taken so far and the process of questioning and verification of facts is ongoingA future course of action will only be decided once the due diligence is done the officials saidPolice are verifying the facts and investigating the matterâ officials saidEarlier in July last year four youths were arrested in Uttar Pradeshs Deoria for allegedly wearing Tshirts with the Palestinian flag during a Muharram procession Another man was arrested in Agra in the same month for allegedly waving the Palestinian flag during the Muharram procession IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-police-summons-cricketer-for-displaying-palestine-flag-during-local-match-656683.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/myanmar-three-indian-nationals-trapped-in-cyber-scam-centres-repatriated-via-yangon-656685.html Yangon Jan 2 Three Indian nationals were repatriated from Myanmarâs Myawaddy cyber scam centres through Yangon the Embassy of India in Yangon informed on Friday following cooperation with Myanmar authorities and organisations âWith cooperation from Myanmar authorities and organisations 3 more Indian nationals from Myawaddy scam centres were repatriated via Yangon yesterday So far 2171 Indian nationals have been repatriated since July 2022 1757 since July 2024 We strongly advise against such job offersâ the Indian Embassy in Yangon posted on XEarlier on November 19 at least 125 Indian nationals were repatriated from Thailands Mae Sot to India aboard a special Indian Air Force IAF flightThe Indian nationals deported were detained in Mae Sot after they had entered Thailand from Myanmars Myawaddy where they were allegedly working in the cyber scam centresAccording to the Indian Embassy in Bangkok this brought the total number of Indians released from scam centres in Myawaddy and repatriated through Thailand since March to 1500As part of the Government of Indias efforts to secure the repatriation of Indians entrapped in scamcentres in SouthEast Asia the Embassy of India in Bangkok and the Consulate of India in Chiang Mai province in Thailand have worked in close coordination with various agencies of the Thai government and Tak Province to facilitate the repatriation of the Indian nationalsâIndian nationals are strongly advised to verify the credentials of foreign employers and check the antecedents of recruiting agents and companies before taking up a job offer overseas Further visafree entry into Thailand for Indian passport holders is meant for tourism and short business purposes only and should not be misused for taking up employment in Thailand the Embassy of India in Bangkok posted on XAdditionally 269 Indian nationals including 11 women were repatriated a day earlier through Mae Sot by two special flights operated by the IAFThe Indian Embassy in Bangkok and the Consulate of India in Chiang Mai in coordination with various agencies of the Royal Thai Government and the administration of Tak Province facilitated the repatriation process IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/myanmar-three-indian-nationals-trapped-in-cyber-scam-centres-repatriated-via-yangon-656685.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kavitha-reacts-strongly-to-revanth-reddys-kcr-deserves-hanging-remark-656686.html Hyderabad Jan 2 Reacting strongly to Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddys remark that it would not be wrong even if his predecessor K Chandrasekhar Rao KCR is hanged for the injustice caused to the State in utilisation of river waters Telangana Jagruthi leader and Raos daughter K Kavitha said on Friday that Revanth Reddy should be hanged twice Kavitha took strong exception to Chief Minister Reddys remark She said that her blood is boiling to hear that the leader who led the Telangana movement should be hangedRevanth Reddy should be hanged not once but twice she saidShe said this while talking to reporters on the premises of the Telangana Legislative CouncilKavitha said KCR should speak in the Assembly on the Krishna river water issue to shut the mouths of the Chief Minister and his ministers who are criticising himShe said that for BRS to survive KCR should come to the Assembly and speak She feels that KCR should not leave the issue of river water to young leaders of the partyCriticising her cousin and former minister T Harish Rao she remarked that bubble shooter in BRS has been made deputy leader of the party in the AssemblyKavitha said he came to the Council to request Chairman G Sukhender Reddy to accept her resignationKavitha had submitted her resignation as a Member of the Legislative Council in September Her action came after KCR suspended her from BRS for antiparty activitiesFollowing her suspension she also resigned from the party and has been carrying on her political activities under Telangana Jagruthi a cultural organisation she had floated during the Telangana movementChief Minister Revanth Reddy had said on Thursday that it would not be wrong if KCR and his nephew Harish Rao were hanged for the injustices caused to Telangana in the utilisation of river waters during the BRS regimeThe Chief Minister made the remarks at a PowerPoint presentation made by Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy to the ruling Congress leaders on river water issues on Thursday evening IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kavitha-reacts-strongly-to-revanth-reddys-kcr-deserves-hanging-remark-656686.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/treat-gig-workers-as-human-beings-not-disposable-data-points-raghav-chadha-656687.html New Delhi Jan 2 Gig workers must be treated as human beings and not just disposable data points said Aam Aadmi Party AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha on Friday Chadha had extended strong support to gig workers across the country who observed a nationwide symbolic strike on New Yearâs Eve demanding fair wages better working conditions and social security from major delivery and ecommerce platformsâI sat down with delivery riders of Zomato Swiggy Blinkit etc This is not a rant This is a conversation with those whose lives power our everyday comfortâ the AAP MP shared in a post on social media platformThe nationwide strike called jointly by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union TGPWU and the Indian Federation of AppBased Transport Workers IFAT saw thousands of delivery partners across several states log off their apps or reduce work significantlyThe protest impacted services on one of the busiest commercial days of the year with reports of delays and cancellations in multiple citiesâItâs tragic that millions of delivery riders who helped build instantcommerce companies into what they are today are now forced to protest just to be heardâ Chadha saidHe noted that the quick delivery platforms succeeded with the sweat and labour of the delivery riders and thus must be treated as human beingsâThese platforms didnât succeed because of algorithms alone They succeeded because of human sweat and labourâ Chadha saidâItâs time companies start treating riders as human beings not disposable data points The gig economy cannot become a guiltfree exploitation economyâ he addedEarlier speaking to IANS Chadha highlighted concerns over low and unpredictable pay long working hours lack of social security and absence of dignity at workâThey are humans not robots or bonded labour They are also someoneâs father son husband or brotherâ he said highlighting concerns over low and unpredictable pay long working hours lack of social security and absence of dignity at workHe also spoke against the pressure created by ultrafast delivery models stating that the â10minute delivery tortureâ was taking a toll on workersâ physical and mental health IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/treat-gig-workers-as-human-beings-not-disposable-data-points-raghav-chadha-656687.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-governor-unveils-pictorial-calendar-2026-themed-on-culture-nature-656689.html DW Bureau Chandigarh Punjab Governor GulabnbspChand Kataria released the pictorial Calendar 2026 for the State of Punjab depicting the theme Punjab Where Culture Heritage amp Nature Breathes at Punjab Lok Bhavan Chandigarh The calendar which has been meticulously conceptualized and compiled by State Information Commissioner Punjab Harpreet Sandhu presents a vivid and comprehensive visual narrative of Punjabs rich cultural heritage sacred religious legacy vibrant agricultural ethos and pristine natural landscapesWhile releasing the calendar the Governor Punjab acknowledged the meaningful efforts done by State Information Commissioner Punjab Harpreet Sandhu for undertaking this significant initiative to promote Punjab and remarked that this visual documentation will be of immense interest to create cultural consciousness strengthening the bond with heritage and projecting Punjabs unique identity on a wider platform throughout 2026State Information Commissioner Punjab Harpreet Sandhu said that he has compiled the Calendar 2026 for the State of Punjab with the aim to serve as a source of inspiration for citizens visitors and particularly the youth to reconnect with Punjabs glorious legacy and to value its enduring relationship with nature and agricultureCurated under the patronage of the Governor Punjab each month of the calendar reflects a harmonious blend of art heritage agriculture spirituality and natural serenity which are showcased through evocative visuals that define the soul of PunjabThe Calendar carries a meaningful message of the Governor of PunjabnbspNotably the Vice Chancellors of Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar Punjab Agricultural University Guru Angad Dev Veterinary amp Animal Sciences University Ludhiana and Punjabi University Patiala have endorsed their acknowledgment for the calendar symbolically marking a commitment towards celebrating preserving and promoting Punjabs cultural natural and spiritual heritagenbsp https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-governor-unveils-pictorial-calendar-2026-themed-on-culture-nature-656689.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/brs-mla-booked-for-encroachment-on-hyderabads-durgam-cheruvu-656691.html Hyderabad Jan 2 Cyberabad Police have registered a case against Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS MLA Kotha Prabhakar Reddy for allegedly encroaching Durgam Cheruvu in the Information Technology hub of Madhapur On a complaint by the Hyderabad Disaster Response and Assets Protection Agency HYDRAA Madhapur Police registered a case against Prabhakar ReddyThe case has been booked under various sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property PDPP ActThe complaint mentions that in 2014 Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority HMDA issued a Full Tank Level FTL primary notification in respect of Durgam CheruvuDespite this two persons Kotha Prabhakar Reddy and Venkat Reddy have encroached upon about 5 acres of Durgam Cheruvu by filling the lake area with soil and stones They are illegally earning money by using the encroached land for STS private transport parking The encroachment of Durgam Cheruvu has been continuing since 2014 said HYDRAA in its complaintTwo days ago HYDRAA launched a major drive to clear encroachments at Durgam Cheruvu As part of this initiative about five acres of encroached lake area have been cleared near the Inorbit Mall MadhapurThe encroached portion was reportedly filled with soil and illegally used as a parking area for school buses and IT company vehiclesThe encroachers were allegedly earning Rs 50 lakh every month HYDRAA officials removed the vehicles erected fencing around the lake boundary and initiated steps to remove the dumped soilHYDRA Commissioner A V Ranganath ordered immediate action after receiving a complaint during the Prajavani programmeAccording to officials Durgam Cheruvu which was once spread over 160 acres has shrunk to 116 acres due to systematic encroachments and dumping activity Illegal filling with soil to depths of 1015 metres has resulted in the gradual occupation of the lake area obstructing even the proposed walking track around the lake IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/brs-mla-booked-for-encroachment-on-hyderabads-durgam-cheruvu-656691.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/broken-promises-spark-fresh-anger-in-pok-protests-expected-to-intensify-656694.html New Delhi Jan 2 The calm that was restored in PakistanoccupiedKashmir PoK in October is all set to end with talks being called off between the PoKâs Joint Awami Action Committee and the government In September protests had erupted in the region during which several organisations had made multiple demands relating to development The government of Pakistan intervened and agreed to fulfil all their demandsHowever now the committee has accused the government of orchestrating an eyewash and said that not a single demand has been met It has refused to hold any talks with the government thus signalling the start of protests once againAn Intelligence assessment says that the protests are likely to be bigger than the last time This is not the first time that the Pakistan government has gone back on its word This has left the people of the region extremely frustratedThe approach that the government has towards PoK is the same that one gets to witness in Balochistan People of both regions accuse the government and top Army officials of indulging in corruption They say that their resources are used and all developmental works are carried out in top cities of Pakistan while the two regions remain extremely neglectedThe Joint Awami Action Committee which had signed an agreement with the government on October now says that their demands must be fulfilled first At the time of the signing of the agreement it was decided that the committee and government would meet every 15 days to review the progress However such a meeting has taken place only thrice in the past three months which has led the committee of accusing the government of an eyewashThe government had also promised to remove the names of several committee members from the Exit Control List ECL It was also assured that the FIRs against them would be withdrawn and the issues relating to the refugee seats would be resolved However not a single demand has been met and this has angered the members of the committeeThe committee says that everything that the government has done since the October 3 agreement has been tripe A committee had been constituted by the government to address the issues of refugee seats However the committee would only address specific issues This the PoK committee says is nonsense and they want all issues to be resolved at onceIt further said that partial measures would not do and this time it is not buying into the assurances that the government is making Indian officials say that these developments are not surprising and this has been Pakistanâs stance always where PoK is concernedOfficials also warn if the issues are not sorted on an urgent basis then the protests could become intense and a spillover into India cannot be ruled outAnother official said that it is the Pakistan Army that calls the shots It has appointed several retired army officials to deal with middlemen in the region They are tasked with tapping into the resources available in PoK The people have accused these officials of diverting all the funds to the main parts of Pakistan while not making any improvements to the regionFurther a lot of funds that are generated from these resources are usurped by army officials who have been accused of large scale corruption These issues have also caused a stir within the army Recently a letter by the Guardians of Honour accused Field Marshal Asim Munir of incompetence oppression and corruptionAn official said that the Pakistan government has for long lied to the people of Pakistan by making false assurances It has done so yet again and the people of the region are getting impatientIt is just a matter of time before the situation in PoK would go beyond the control of the establishment in Pakistan the official also added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/broken-promises-spark-fresh-anger-in-pok-protests-expected-to-intensify-656694.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/criticism-of-muslim-league-and-cpi-is-issue-based-sndp-strongman-natesan-656696.html Alappuzha Jan 2 SNDP Yogam General Secretary Vellappally Natesan on Friday reiterated his criticism of the Muslim League and the CPI stressing that his comments are issuebased and directed at party policies not at any community Speaking to the media in Alappuzha he clarified that attempts to portray him as antiMuslim are misleadingVellappally accused the Muslim League of failing to implement social justice while in power and of attempting to turn the Muslim community against the Ezhava communityHe also said that the CPIâs positions have created an impression of disunity within the Left Democratic Front LDF urging that differences be addressed internally and reminding that backward communities remain the backbone of the LeftHe alleged that the League while in power failed to implement social justice allowing generous educational opportunities for the Muslim community in Malappuram while the Ezhava community received only one aided collegeHe said the party is now attempting to turn the Muslim community against the Ezhavas warning that this could lead to communal tensions similar to the Marad riotsVellappally also criticised the CPI saying its positions have created an impression of disunity within the Left Democratic Front LDFHe urged that right and wrong be discussed internally within the front emphasising that the backing of backward communities forms the true strength of the Left which the CPI must recogniseOn the Sabarimala issue he defended the governmentâs stance as sincere adding âLet those who ate the salt drink the waterâ stressing accountability and fairnessHe addressed a recent personal incident involving a journalist explaining that the confrontation was a result of provocation and insisting he acted within his rightsâI am 89 years old and I asked if a reaction was necessary at that timeâ he said defending his actions He referred to the journalist as a âterroristâ in context clarifying it was meant in terms of awareness not personal attackOn governance Vellappally said the Congressled UDF denied approvals to educational institutions during its tenure while the LDF only followed policy in granting permissionsHe reiterated that his remarks on Chathiyan Chandu stand and that he has no plans to travel in Binoy Viswamâs car though leaders such as MN Govindan have ridden in his car in the pastVellappally emphasised his personal friendship with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan refuting suggestions that travelling in the Chief Ministerâs car amounted to wrongdoingHe said attempts to portray the act as treason are unfounded adding that had the passenger been from an upper caste or minority community there would have been no controversy at allThrough these statements Vellappally has not only reaffirmed his political positions but also highlighted the delicate balance of caste community and party dynamics within Keralaâs Left front reiterating that backward communities remain the backbone of its supportMeanwhile Binoy Viswam â the CPI state secretary said he is not going to make any comments about Natesanâs remarksâEveryone knows everything and hence I will not make any comments He Natesan need not do the task of assessing the performance of the Left governmentâ said Viswam IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/criticism-of-muslim-league-and-cpi-is-issue-based-sndp-strongman-natesan-656696.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/dispute-over-music-turns-fatal-in-jharkhands-hazaribagh-one-killed-656697.html Hazaribagh Jan 2 A latenight dispute between a group of young men turned violent in Hazaribagh Jharkhand resulting in the brutal murder of a 30yearold man on Thursday January 1 police officials said on Friday The incident occurred around 9 pm at Indrapuri Chowk a busy locality of the city The deceased has been identified as Suraj Kumar Rana a resident of Madai Khurd who worked as a tiles and marble masonAccording to family members and eyewitnesses an argument broke out between some youths returning from a picnic over playing music The dispute quickly escalated following which Suraj was forcibly dragged to an area near the Red Cross building and assaultedEyewitnesses said the attackers brutally beat Suraj and dragged him towards Lal Kothi Chowk where he was allegedly attacked with a sword leaving him critically injuredLocal residents alerted by the commotion immediately informed the police On reaching the spot the police rushed the profusely bleeding victim to Sadar Hospital where doctors declared him dead around 11 pmThe incident triggered panic and anger in Indrapuri Chowk and nearby areas with a large number of people gathering both at the crime scene and the hospitalPolice have secured the area collected evidence and sent the body for postmortem examination Preliminary investigation indicates that the murder stemmed from a personal dispute though all angles are being thoroughly probedPolice officials said several suspects have been detained for questioning and raids are underway at suspected hideouts to trace and arrest the accused Additional police forces have been deployed in the area to maintain law and orderSuraj Kumar Rana who was married five years ago was the sole breadwinner of his family He is survived by his wife and two young children The incident has left his family shattered IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/dispute-over-music-turns-fatal-in-jharkhands-hazaribagh-one-killed-656697.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 23:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-puts-new-sand-quarry-operations-on-hold-till-2026-assembly-elections-656512.html Chennai Jan 1 The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department has decided not to open any new river sand quarry until the conclusion of the upcoming Assembly elections officials have confirmed The decision comes amid administrative hurdles political considerations and ongoing investigations related to sand mining operations in the State Twelve river sand quarries had been functioning under the control of the Water Resources Department These quarries supplied sand to designated yards through private contractors However operations were disrupted after the Enforcement Directorate registered cases against the contractors for alleged money laundering linked to illegal sand miningFollowing this the quarries operated by these contractors were sealed effectively bringing legal river sand extraction under the department to a standstillAs a result no river sand quarry is currently functioning under the Water Resources Department across Tamil NaduWith construction activity continuing across the state demand for sand has risen sharply To meet the shortfall a portion of the requirement is now being met through sand transported from neighbouring Andhra Pradesh leading to higher costs for builders and consumersIn an attempt to address the shortage the Water Resources Department had earlier identified around 30 new locations where sand quarrying could be taken up excluding environmentally sensitive and problematic zonesEnvironmental clearances were also obtained for these sites However despite these approvals none of the proposed quarries have been operationalised so far Officials said that last month preparations were made to open sand quarries at eight locations However these plans were stalled following intervention at the ministerial levelAccording to sources differences emerged between the department and the minister concerned over the selection of contractors to operate the quarriesWhile officials reportedly preferred appointing new contractors the minister was said to have insisted on continuing with existing ones resulting in a deadlockRepresentatives of lorry owners and sand traders said the stalemate has led to severe supply constraintsWith Assembly elections approaching in the coming months officials have now decided that no new quarry operations will be initiated until the polls are overA final decision on reopening or awarding quarry contracts is expected only after the electionsIn the meantime builders and house owners continue to bear the brunt of rising construction costs as they are compelled to depend on costlier sand transported from neighbouring states IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-puts-new-sand-quarry-operations-on-hold-till-2026-assembly-elections-656512.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/one-dead-15-fall-ill-after-new-year-party-in-hyderabad-656514.html Hyderabad Jan 1 New Year celebrations turned tragic in Hyderabad after a person died and 15 others were taken ill after a latenight party The incident occurred in Bhavani Nagar under Jagadgirigutta Police Station of Cyberabad Police Commissionerate in Medchal Malkajgiri districtA group of 17 friends celebrated the New Year with a party at Bhavani Nagar Welfare Association where they ate Biryani and consumed liquorOn returning home past midnight they took ill One of them succumbed before he could be taken to the hospital He was identified as Pandu 53Fifteen people have been admitted to Narayana Malla Reddy HospitalFood poisoning is suspected to have led to the tragedy Police registered a case and took up an investigationAuthorities collected samples from leftover food and liquor and sent them to the laboratory for analysisMore details were awaitedIn another incident in Vanasthalipuram a man created a ruckus during the special drive undertaken by the police to check drunk drivingProtesting against the breath analyser test the man lay down on the road He alleged that police personnel acted in a highhanded manner The protest led to a traffic jam on the busy road Police personnel had to remove him to clear the trafficA largescale drive against drunk driving was undertaken on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1 by the police in the three commissionerates of Hyderabad Cyberabad and Rachakonda More than 2000 motorists were caught driving under the influence of alcoholA few other incidents of motorists entering into arguments with the police during drunk driving checks were also reported from various parts of Greater HyderabadPolice had imposed traffic curbs in the limits of all three commsissionerates to ensure road safety during the New Year celebrations A special drive was also conducted to check violations of traffic rules by the New Year revellers IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/one-dead-15-fall-ill-after-new-year-party-in-hyderabad-656514.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/more-than-law-awareness-needs-to-be-created-ktaka-minister-on-honour-killing-case-656516.html Bengaluru Jan 1 Commenting on the recent honour killing case reported from Hubballi in which a father hacked his pregnant daughter to death for marrying a Dalit man Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara stated that more than laws there is a need to create awareness among the people Speaking to the media in Bengaluru on Thursday Parameshwara said âWe are living in a modern world Society must change Intercaste marriages are not new Hundreds of years ago Basavanna had conducted intercaste marriagesââEven today the occurrence of honour killing incidents indicates that society is not receiving the right messages More than laws awareness must be created among the people We will complete the investigation and legal procedures in this case at the earliestâ he saidThe minister said that he visited Hubballi on Wednesday In the honour killing incident in which a father hacked his pregnant daughter to death I met the family and spoke to the family members The mother of the victim is in critical condition and is still hospitalised I also visited herâ he statedOn the Dharmasthala case he stated that the government will complete the procedures and also in the cases which have been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department CIDWhen asked about the tasks to be assigned to officers in the new year based on incidents from the previous year Parameshwara said âI have reviewed the survey report We will discuss the incidents that took place last year I have explained to them the sensitivity of the issues I trust they will deliverâMeanwhile Social Welfare Minister HC Mahadevappa visited the house of Vivekananda Doddamani at Inamveerapura village near Hubballi whose pregnant wife was hacked to death by her father over an intercaste marriage He consoled the family members and handed over a cheque for Rs 17 lakhIt may be recalled that on December 21 2025 in an honour killing incident reported from Inamveerapura village a father brutally murdered his own daughterThe girlâs father and relatives also assaulted the victimâs husband Vivekananda Doddamani and his family members Mareppa Doddamani Sunil Harijan Sangeetha Harijan Renavva Ananya Doddamani Yallappa Doddamani and Huvamma Doddamani sustained injuries in the attackAccording to the police Manya Patil a Lingayat had married Vivekananda a Dalit Both hail from the same village They knew each other and fell in love while pursuing their graduation They became closer through Instagram and later developed a relationship The couple got married on June 19 at the registrarâs office in HubballiPreliminary investigation revealed that Manya Patil had earlier threatened to commit suicide if Vivekananda did not marry her After the marriage the police had called both families and brokered a compromise Manya and Vivekananda later shifted to Haveri They returned to their village on December 8 believing their relationship would be accepted as Manya was pregnantHowever tensions resurfaced between the two families The Hubballi Rural police again called the families and instructed the elders not to trouble each other Despite this Manya Patilâs father and relatives allegedly barged into her house in the village and hacked her to death The police arrested the father and two others in connection with the caseVivekananda has demanded the death penalty for those responsible IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/more-than-law-awareness-needs-to-be-created-ktaka-minister-on-honour-killing-case-656516.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-man-kills-three-children-dies-by-suicide-656517.html Amaravati Jan 1 In a shocking incident a man killed his three children by poisoning them and later died by suicide in Andhra Pradeshâs Nandyal district Police said the incident occurred in Thudumaladinne village in Uyyalawada Mandal of Nandyal districtVemulapati Surendra killed his three children aged between two and seven years before killing himselfThe bodies of Kaavyashri 7 Dhyaneshwari 4 and Surya Gagan 2 and Surendra 35 were found in the house on ThursdayPolice suspect that Surendra served cold drinks laced with pesticides to the children before hanging himselfSurendraâs wife Maheshwari had died by suicide on August 16 2025 The woman had taken the extreme step due to illhealth and since then Surendra was taking care of the childrenPolice suspect that Surendra killed the children and died by suicide due to personal problems He is believed to have resorted to the ghastly act under the influence of alcoholAccording to locals Surendra a construction worker was devastated by his wifeâs suicide He was also facing financial problems and difficulty in bringing up his children all aloneThe incident sent shock waves in the region Police shifted the bodies for postmortem examinationA police officer said they have registered a case and taken up the investigation Police collected samples of food and cold drinks from the house and sent them to lab for examinationMeanwhile in Telangana dispute over a chit fund led to the murder of a manThe incident occurred in Govindapalle in Jagtial district According to police Anjayya 58 was allegedly murdered by a man and his sonPreliminary investigation by police revealed that Anjayya a businessman and one Dasoju Sreenu had a dispute over a Rs1 lakh chit fundAnjayya who was running a chit fund scheme was demanding that Sreenu clear Rs12000 dues Alleging that he was harassing him for payment Sreenu picked up a quarrel with himSreenu and his son Dasoju Venu attacked Anjayya severely injuring him The victim was admitted to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-man-kills-three-children-dies-by-suicide-656517.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-man-kills-his-three-children-dies-by-suicide-656518.html Amaravati Jan 1 In a shocking incident a man killed his three children by poisoning them and later died by suicide in Andhra Pradeshâs Nandyal district Police said the incident occurred in Thudumaladinne village in Uyyalawada Mandal of Nandyal districtVemulapati Surendra killed his three children aged between two and seven years before killing himselfThe bodies of Kaavyashri 7 Dhyaneshwari 4 and Surya Gagan 2 and Surendra 35 were found in the house on ThursdayPolice suspect that Surendra served cold drinks laced with pesticides to the children before hanging himselfSurendraâs wife Maheshwari had died by suicide on August 16 2025 The woman had taken the extreme step due to illhealth and since then Surendra was taking care of the childrenPolice suspect that Surendra killed the children and died by suicide due to personal problems He is believed to have resorted to the ghastly act under the influence of alcoholAccording to locals Surendra a construction worker was devastated by his wifeâs suicide He was also facing financial problems and difficulty in bringing up his children all aloneThe incident sent shock waves in the region Police shifted the bodies for postmortem examinationA police officer said they have registered a case and taken up the investigation Police collected samples of food and cold drinks from the house and sent them to lab for examinationMeanwhile in Telangana dispute over a chit fund led to the murder of a manThe incident occurred in Govindapalle in Jagtial district According to police Anjayya 58 was allegedly murdered by a man and his sonPreliminary investigation by police revealed that Anjayya a businessman and one Dasoju Sreenu had a dispute over a Rs1 lakh chit fundAnjayya who was running a chit fund scheme was demanding that Sreenu clear Rs12000 dues Alleging that he was harassing him for payment Sreenu picked up a quarrel with himSreenu and his son Dasoju Venu attacked Anjayya severely injuring him The victim was admitted to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-man-kills-his-three-children-dies-by-suicide-656518.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pfrda-unveils-policy-reforms-to-promote-sustainable-growth-of-nps-656525.html New Delhi Jan 1 The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authoritys PFRDA board has approved a framework to permit Scheduled Commercial Banks SCBs to independently set up Pension Funds to manage NPS with the objective of strengthening the pension ecosystem it was announced on Thursday This will enhance competition and safeguard subscriberâs interestsThe proposed framework seeks to address existing regulatory constraints that had limited bank participation till now said Ministry of Finance in a statementBy introducing a clearly defined eligibility criteria based on net worth market capitalisation and prudential soundness in line with RBI norms it will ensure that only wellcapitalised and systemically robust banks are permitted to sponsor Pension FundsâThe detailed criteria will be notified separately and will apply to both new and existing Pension Fundsâ the statement saidPFRDA has appointed three new Trustees on the Board of NPS Trust pursuant to the selection process initiated by PFRDAThese are Dinesh Kumar Khara Former Chairman State Bank of India Swati Anil Kulkarni Former Executive Vice President UTI AMCâTrustee and Dr Arvind Gupta CoFounder and Head Digital India Foundation and Member of the National Venture Capital Investment Committee under the Fund of Funds Scheme managed by SIDBIKhara has also been designated as the Chairperson of the NPS Trust BoardIn order to align with evolving realities aspirations of the public international benchmarks and the objective of expanding coverage across corporate retail and gigeconomy segments PFRDA has revised the Investment Management Fee IMF structure for Pension Funds to safeguard subscriber interests with effect from April 1 2026The revised slabbased IMF introduces differentiated rates for government and nongovernment sector subscribers which shall also apply to schemes under the Multiple Scheme Framework MSF with MSF corpus being counted separatelyPFRDA expects these policy reforms to help the subscribers and stakeholders to access a more competitive wellgoverned and resilient NPS ecosystem leading to improved longterm retirement outcomes and enhanced oldage income security IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pfrda-unveils-policy-reforms-to-promote-sustainable-growth-of-nps-656525.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/political-sparring-over-sabarimala-gold-theft-probe-as-cpi-m-minister-counters-satheesan-prakash-clarifies-656526.html Thiruvananthapuram Jan 1 Political sparring over the Sabarimala gold theft case intensified on Thursday with State Local SelfGovernment Minister MB Rajesh launching a sharp counterattack against Opposition Leader VD Satheesan even as UDF convener and Congress Lok Sabha member Adoor Prakash reiterated that he has not been summoned by the Special Investigation Team SIT Responding to Satheesanâs allegations against the SIT Rajesh said the Opposition leader had âperformed a complete voltefaceâHe recalled that Satheesan had earlier publicly expressed confidence in the SIT investigation into the Sabarimala gold theftâHas that confidence evaporated now simply because the SIT indicated it may question the UDF convenerâ Rajesh askedDrawing a contrast the minister pointed out that the Opposition had celebrated when former Devaswom Minister Kadakampally Surendran was summoned for questioningâNow that Adoor Prakashâs name has surfaced the Opposition Leader is displaying clear double standardsâ Rajesh said and asked why there was panic when âoneâs own leadersâ were called for questioningIn a sarcastic swipe he said that if the Opposition was fearful of the course of the investigation they could âsing parody songs togetherâ turning it into a collective wailRajesh also questioned the Congress partyâs claim that there was nothing suspicious in its conductHe asked why two Congress leaders had met senior party leader Sonia Gandhi in the company of the accused person in the gold theft case suggesting that the party owed the public an explanationHe further alleged that from the party high command to the grassroots the Congress had its âeyes fixed on the BJPâ claiming that there were tacit CongressâBJP understandings at multiple levelsMeanwhile Adoor Prakash firmly denied media reports that he had been summoned by the SITHe said he learnt of such claims only through television channels and insisted that no official notice had been issuedAlleging political interference Prakash claimed the controversy was being orchestrated by the Chief Ministerâs political secretary P SasiPrakash maintained that he would fully cooperate if formally summoned and had nothing to fearHe clarified that his participation in a Sabarimala annadanam programme was purely religious and that he had no prior knowledge of any individualâs alleged involvement in gold smugglingThe ministerâs remarks were in direct response to Satheesanâs demand for urgent High Court intervention after he alleged that the induction of two CPIMlinked Circle Inspectors into the SIT was an attempt to sabotage the probeâan allegation the Kerala government has strongly rejected IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/political-sparring-over-sabarimala-gold-theft-probe-as-cpi-m-minister-counters-satheesan-prakash-clarifies-656526.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistans-textile-industry-plunges-into-deep-crisis-report-656527.html New Delhi Jan 1 Pakistanâs textile industry which was once the driver of economic growth in the country has plunged into a deep crisis with factories shutting down due to high production costs Once celebrated for its export potential and capacity to drive industrial growth Pakistanâs textile sector is now grappling with a convergence of structural economic and logistical shocks that have eroded competitiveness shuttered factories and destabilised livelihoods across the value chain From collapsing cotton production to soaring energy costs from regional competition to policy missteps and now a nationwide transport strike the industry stands at a critical inflection point a report in the UKâs Daily Mirror saidThe Pakistan Textile Exporters Association PTEA has pointed out that textile exports have declined for the fourth month in a row raising concerns about the sectorâs longterm viabilityThe article cites PTEA General Secretary Azizullah Goheer saying that Pakistan has failed to surpass or even maintain the FY2021 export benchmark of 193 billion Instead exports slipped to 18 billion then 17 billion and continue to fall Between July and November 2025 alone exports dropped by 639 per cent from 13721 billion to 12844 billion signalling a persistent downward trajectoryPakistanâs textile sector is losing ground to regional competitors as the high cost of energy tariffs taxes and financing costs has hit the countryâs competitiveness Exporters have pointed out that Bangladesh India China and Vietnam have all gained market share at the cost of Pakistan as they have lower production costs and the governments of these countries have put more stable policies in placeAt the heart of the crisis lies the collapse of Pakistanâs cotton economy Outdated agricultural practices poor seed quality and inadequate research investment have led to a dramatic decline in cotton production and quality the article statedAccording to the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Forum Chairman Ihsanul Haq more than 100 spinning mills and 400 ginning factories have already shut down National cotton output has fallen from 15 million bales to 55 million balesCotton prices have crashed to Rs 8000 per 40 kg pushing farmers into financial distress and accelerating the shift from cotton to sugarcane cultivation This shift threatens to increase Pakistanâs reliance on edible oil imports further straining foreign exchange reserves the report statesThe ginning sector is reported to be struggling under a hefty 86 per cent combined sales tax on cotton cottonseed oil and oilcake Meanwhile textile units are being asked to clear decadeold gas dues compounding liquidity pressures The situation has been worsened by recent amendments to the Export Facilitation Scheme EFS which have resulted in exporters having to pay more taxesEnergy costs are a major burden with electricity tariffs projected to reach 12 cents per kWh by FY26 which is much higher than the 5â9 cents per kWh paid by competitors in the region Exporters claim that this disparity alone makes Pakistani textiles uncompetitive in global markets Frequent power outages voltage fluctuations and grid instability which damage machinery and disrupt production schedules are adding to the problem IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistans-textile-industry-plunges-into-deep-crisis-report-656527.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/reaffirm-commitment-to-peace-harmony-manipur-guv-urges-people-on-new-year-656531.html Imphal Jan 1 Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has urged the people of the state to collectively reaffirm their commitment to peace harmony and mutual respect in the New Year In his New Year greetings the Governor said that 2026 should be a year of strengthening bonds of brotherhood among all communities and upholding the values of unity in diversityAs we step into 2026 let us collectively reaffirm our commitment to peace harmony and mutual respect Bhalla saidLet this be a year in which we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among all communities uphold the values of unity in diversity and work together to foster lasting peace and stability in the state he addedWelcoming the New Year the Governor expressed hope that the year ahead would usher in greater understanding prosperity and wellbeing for allMay the spirit of cooperation and compassion guide us towards building a peaceful inclusive and prosperous Manipur he saidManipur on Thursday is celebrating the GaanNgai Festival a major postharvest festival of the Kabui and Rongmei Naga communitiesThe festival begins with a religious ceremony on the first day followed by days marked by community feasts traditional dances and the exchange of giftsThe Governor also extended greetings to the people on the occasion of the âGaanNgai FestivalâHe said that âGaanNgaiâ is observed as a postharvest festival of the winter season and is a sacred occasion involving rituals for the dead the creation of new fire grand feasts traditional dances games and songs all dedicated to the Supreme God to ensure prosperity peace and cultural continuityThe festival also signifies bidding farewell to the passing year and ushering in a New Year filled with hope optimism and renewed aspirations Bhalla observedAccording to the Governor while GaanNgai is essentially an occasion of worship and thanksgiving to the Almighty it also serves as a time for joy harmony and happinessHe urged the people to come together to celebrate the GaanNgai Festival in a spirit of friendship unity and brotherhood with traditional gaiety and devotion and to welcome the New Year with renewed commitment towards building a peaceful and prosperous Manipur IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/reaffirm-commitment-to-peace-harmony-manipur-guv-urges-people-on-new-year-656531.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/maruti-suzuki-india-exports-highest-ever-395-lakh-vehicles-in-2025-656533.html New Delhi Jan 1 Maruti Suzuki India Ltd on Thursday said it has exported 395 lakh vehicles in 2025 its highest ever in any calendar year This marks a growth of over 21 per cent as compared to 2024 the countryâs largest automaker said in a statementâThis is a proud moment for the company as we record our highestever calendar year exports of 395 lakh units It reflects Indiaâs manufacturing strength and trust of customers worldwideâ said Hisashi Takeuchi Managing Director and CEO Maruti Suzuki India LimitedAt a time when global trade is passing through a turbulent phase we regard this 21 per cent growth as a responsible contribution in supporting the nationâs export momentum Takeuchi addedAccording to the company this achievement is set to put it at the top as Indiaâs No 1 passenger vehicle exporter for the fifth consecutive yearIn 2025 Maruti Suzuki exported 18 models to over 100 countries The year also marked the commencement of export of Suzukiâs first Battery Electric Vehicle BEV the e VITARAFollowing the flagoff of the BEV by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Maruti Suzukiâs Hansalpur facility in August over 13000 units have already been exported to 29 countries predominantly in Europe said the companyEarlier in November the countryâs largest carmaker announced that it crossed a major milestone of 3 crore cumulative car sales in the domestic market The company said it took 28 years and 2 months to reach its first crore of sales while the next one crore cars were sold in just 7 years and 5 monthsAccording to the automaker the third crore milestone came even faster in a record time of 6 years and 4 months highlighting the brandâs growing popularity among Indian buyers Among the three crore cars sold in India the Maruti Alto remains the bestselling model with over 47 lakh units sold IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/maruti-suzuki-india-exports-highest-ever-395-lakh-vehicles-in-2025-656533.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-to-receive-its-1st-bullet-train-on-august-15-next-year-ashwini-vaishnaw-656536.html New Delhi Jan 1 Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday indicated that India is likely to receive its first Bullet Train on August 15 2027 The country is going to witness its first Bullet Train running on tracks next year Vaishnaw saidBuy a Bullet Train ticket as on the Independence Day in 2027 the country will get its first Bullet Train he saidVaishnaw also said that the Vande Bharat Express chair car has created a new sense of confidence across the country and people have appreciated it a lotRequests are now coming in from all over India to run Vande Bharat trains and almost every MP wants one With the same comfort safety and standards a new overnight journey will begin with the Vande Bharat Sleeper he mentionedIndiaâs first Bullet Train project spans 508 kms between Mumbai and Ahmedabad Of this 352 km lies in Gujarat and Dadra amp Nagar Haveli and 156 km in MaharashtraAccording to the government the corridor will connect major cities such as Ahmedabad Vadodara Bharuch Surat Vapi Thane and Mumbai and is expected to cut travel time between the two metros to around two hours significantly boosting intercity mobilityAs per the National HighSpeed Rail Corporation Ltd NHSRCL over 85 per cent of the corridor âaround 465 km â is being built on elevated viaducts with 326 km already completedIn November Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a detailed review of the MumbaiâAhmedabad HighSpeed Rail MAHSR project during his visit to Gujarat marking a key moment in Indiaâs push towards nextgeneration transport infrastructureDuring the visit the Prime Minister inspected the Surat station â a structure inspired by the cityâs globally renowned diamond industry With a height of 263 metres and a builtup area of 58352 square metres the station includes three levels The ground floor for parking and security checks the concourse level for lounges restrooms kiosks and ticketing and the platform level for passenger boardingWhile structural work is complete finishing touches such as interiors and station amenities are currently underway Track works including RC trackbed construction and temporary track installation have also been completed at the siteProgress on river bridges is also substantial with 17 of 25 bridges constructed The 47km SuratâBilimora section is among the most advanced stretches where civil works and trackbed preparation have been fully completed IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-to-receive-its-1st-bullet-train-on-august-15-next-year-ashwini-vaishnaw-656536.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-and-pakistan-exchange-lists-of-prisoners-nuclear-installations-656537.html New Delhi Jan 1 India on Thursday called for early release and repatriation of civil prisoners fishermen along with their boats and missing Indian defence personnel from Pakistans custody As both countries exchanged through diplomatic channels simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad the lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in each others custody the Ministry of External Affairs MEA stated that Pakistan has been asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 167 Indian fishermen and civil prisoners who have completed their sentenceIndia has shared lists with details of 391 civil prisoners and 33 fishermen in its custody who are Pakistani or believedtobePakistani Similarly Pakistan has shared lists with details of 58 civil prisoners and 199 fishermen in its custody who are Indian or believedtobeIndian read a statement issued by the MEAThe Government of India has called for early release and repatriation of civil prisoners fishermen along with their boats and missing Indian defence personnel from Pakistans custody Pakistan has also been urged to expedite the release and repatriation of 167 Indian fishermen and civil prisoners who have completed their sentence In addition Pakistan has been asked to provide immediate consular access to 35 civil prisoners and fishermen in Pakistans custody who are believedtobeIndian and have not been provided consular access so far it addedUnder the provisions of the bilateral Agreement on Consular Access 2008 such lists are exchanged every year on January 1 and on July 1New Delhi asserted that it has asked the government of Pakistan to ensure the safety security and welfare of all Indian and believedtobeIndian civil prisoners and fishermen pending their release and repatriation to IndiaAs a result of the sustained efforts by the Government of India 2661 Indian fishermen and 71 Indian civil prisoners have been repatriated from Pakistan since 2014 This includes 500 Indian fishermen and 13 Indian civilian prisoners who have been repatriated from Pakistan since 2023 till date the MEA statement mentionedThe two countries also exchanged on Thursday through diplomatic channels simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad the list of nuclear installations and facilities covered under the agreement on the prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installation and Facilities between India and PakistanThe Agreement which was signed on 31 December 1988 and entered into force on 27 January 1991 provides inter alia that India and Pakistan inform each other of the nuclear installations and facilities to be covered under the Agreement on the first January of every calendar year This is the 35th consecutive exchange of such lists between the two countries the first one having taken place on 1 January 1992 another MEA statement detailed IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-and-pakistan-exchange-lists-of-prisoners-nuclear-installations-656537.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/armys-albert-ekka-brigade-marks-56th-raising-day-with-ceremonies-in-agartala-656540.html Agartala Jan 1 The Albert Ekka Brigade which fought in the 1971 IndiaPakistan war from the Tripura sector on Thursday observed its 56th Raising Day in Agartala with solemn ceremonies A defence spokesman said that the brigade celebrated its Raising Day with great pride and solemnity at Agartala Military Station The occasion commemorated the illustrious history valour and unwavering service of the Brigade to the nationHe said that the celebrations began with a wreathlaying ceremony to honour the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the country Officers junior commissioned officers various other ranks and civil dignitaries paid homage to the fallen heroes whose courage and dedication continue to inspire generations of soldiersAccording to the spokesman the brigade has the unique distinction of having two highest gallantry awards in war and peacetime and the only Param Vir Chakra of the 1971 IndiaPakistan war The Brigade recently relocated to Agartala Military Station which is particularly ominous as the Brigade was launched into the 1971 war Operation Cactus Lilly from the Agartala sectorThe defence spokesman said that the Albert Ekka Brigade played a pivotal role in the Battle of Gangasagar near the Tripura border during the 1971 war in which Lance Naik Albert Ekka of the 14th Guards battalion made the supreme sacrifice while clearing a critical enemy bastion that could have threatened Agartala and was awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his conspicuous braveryAddressing the troops Brigadier Dheeraj Singh lauded the brigade for its exceptional professionalism operational excellence and commitment to dutyHe highlighted the brigadeâs significant contributions in safeguarding national security maintaining peace and stability in the region and supporting civil authorities during times of needThe Brigadier urged all ranks to uphold the highest traditions of the Indian Army and continue to serve the nation with honour integrity and selfless devotionThe Raising Day celebrations concluded with interactions among officers and troops reinforcing camaraderie and esprit de corps while reaffirming the Brigadeâs resolve to remain ever prepared to meet future challenges in the service of the nationDefence analyst Manas Paul said that the 1971 war comprised two major operations Operation Cactus Lilly and Operation Nut Cracker and the 57 Mountain Division was actively involved in both operations with firepower supportHe said âBoth operations progressed from Agartala westwards towards Dhaka The war finally culminated on December 16 1971 with the unconditional surrender of 93000 Pakistani soldiers Lt Gen Jagjit Singh Aurora Maj Gen Retd Ian Cardozo Lt Arun Khetrapal and Lance Naik Albert Ekka are a few of our war heroesâ Paul addedHe said that the ninemonthlong war ended with the surrender of Pakistani forces leading to the birth of independent Bangladesh IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/armys-albert-ekka-brigade-marks-56th-raising-day-with-ceremonies-in-agartala-656540.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/debt-figures-alone-dont-reflect-economic-strength-says-p-chidambaram-in-defence-of-tn-656544.html Chennai Jan 1 Senior Congress leader and former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram on Thursday asserted that assessing a stateâs financial health solely on the basis of its total debt is fundamentally flawed as such comparisons ignore broader economic realities In a statement where he extended New Year greetings Chidambaram said that rising public debt is a global phenomenon and should not be selectively used to criticise individual states like Tamil Nadu Developed economies such as the United States the United Kingdom Japan France and Canada continue to witness an annual increase in their overall public debt he noted The same trend is visible in India as well Both the countryâs total debt and the combined debt of all states rise every year This by itself is not abnormal he said According to the former Union Finance Minister the correct indicator for assessing financial health is not the absolute quantum of debt but the ratio of debt to Gross Domestic Product GDP That is the accepted and meaningful yardstick he said adding that Tamil Naduâs debttoGSDP ratio has remained stable from 2021â22 through 2025â26 Chidambaram further noted that fiscal projections indicate a steady reduction in the stateâs fiscal deficit with Tamil Nadu expected to meet the National Institution for Transforming India NITI Aayog target of limiting the deficit to three per cent by 2025â26 This is a commendable achievement and reflects responsible fiscal management he said While acknowledging that there is always scope for improvement in financial governance he strongly opposed comparisons between Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh calling them misleading and inappropriate given the differing economic structures revenue bases and development trajectories of the two states His remarks came against the backdrop of political controversy triggered by comments made earlier by Congress leader and data analyst Praveen Chakravarty who had criticised Tamil Naduâs rising debt levels in comparison to Uttar Pradesh The remarks drew sharp reactions from the DMK prompting Chidambaramâs intervention to clarify the partyâs position and ease tensions within the INDIA bloc Chidambaramâs statement is being viewed as an attempt to reaffirm confidence in Tamil Naduâs fiscal management while also maintaining unity within the opposition alliance ahead of crucial political developments IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/debt-figures-alone-dont-reflect-economic-strength-says-p-chidambaram-in-defence-of-tn-656544.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-gst-collection-jumps-61-per-cent-to-cross-rs-174-lakh-crore-in-december-656547.html New Delhi Jan 1 Indiaâs GST goods and services tax collection recorded a 61 per cent increase to Rs 174550 crore in December 2025 compared to Rs 164556 crore the same month of the previous year reflecting the increase in economic activity during the month official figures released on Thursday showed Central GST collections rose to Rs 34289 crore state GST collections to Rs 41368 crore and integrated GST collections to Rs 98894 croreThe government raised Rs 4551 crore via the GST compensation cess which is continuing only as a transitory arrangement till the entire loan and interest liability are settled The fullyear collection was Rs 88385 crore compared to Rs 11 lakh crore in 2024While there are new higher GST slabs like 40 per cent for luxury items the cess continues on tobacco and pan masalaTotal GST refunds in December amounted to Rs 28980 crore compared with Rs 22138 crore in the same month of the previous yearThe GST collection has registered a growth despite the cut in tax rates that kicked in on September 22 as this has resulted in an increase in the demand for goods and services by consumers leading to an increase in economic activityMeanwhile the Finance Ministry on Thursday also issued a series of notifications that would bring into effect the new tax regime for tobacco products from February 1 2026It was notified that the Central Excise Amendment Act 2025 passed in the recentlyconcluded Winter session of Parliament would come into force from February 1 2026 This Act specifies new rates of excise duty on tobacco products It also notified that the provisions of the Health Security Se National Security Act 2025 which currently levies a cess on the manufacture of pan masala will come into force from February 1 2026The ministry also released an FAQ list to explain that under the Goods and Services Tax regime the excise duty on cigarettes had so far been rendered a nominal amount of a fraction of a paisa per cigarette stick and that the GST compensation cess rate on tobacco products had not been increased since it was implemented in July 2017 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-gst-collection-jumps-61-per-cent-to-cross-rs-174-lakh-crore-in-december-656547.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/drdo-praised-by-iaf-indian-army-on-its-68thraising-day-656548.html New Delhi Jan 1 The Defence Research and Development Organisation DRDO on Thursday celebrated its 68th Raising Day with the armed forces and several dignitaries extending greetings to the nations missile and technology powerhouse Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the nation in hailing DRDO scientists and personnel praising their unwavering commitment scientific excellence and deep sense of national dutyTaking to X the Defence Minister said On DRDO Day I extend my heartfelt greetings to all DRDO scientists personnel and their families Their unwavering commitment scientific excellence and sense of national duty are vital to strengthening Indias Defence preparedness and advancing Atmanirbhar Bharat in DefenceLok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in a message to DRDO said âHeartfelt congratulations on the Foundation Day of the Defence Research and Development Organisation DRDO Over the past several decades DRDO has played a remarkable role in strengthening Indias security capabilities developing indigenous Defence technologies and realizing the resolve of Atmanirbhar BharatââFrom missile technology to stateoftheart Defence systems the dedication and innovation of DRDOIndias scientists is a matter of pride for the nation DRDOs contribution to the countrys strategic security strategic selfreliance and building an India prepared for future challenges has always been inspirationalâ said Birla in a message on social mediaâCertainly this prestigious institution will continue to set new benchmarks in the fields of science research and national service in the times to comeâ he saidThe Indian Air Force also extended its greetings to the DRDO âAll Air Warriors of the Indian Air Force extend warm greetings and best wishes to all personnel and veterans of Defence Research and Development Organisation DRDO on the occasion of their 68thRaisingDayâ said the IAF in a message on social mediaThe Indian Army also wished the DRDO âGeneralUpendraDwivedi COAS and All Ranks of IndianArmy extend warm wishes and greetings to all DRDO personnel and their families on the occasion of DRDO Dayâ said the Indian Army in a social media messageThe DRDO was established on this day in 1958 to strengthen India and make the country selfreliant in the fields of science and technology particularly in DefenceWith a vast network of 52 laboratories DRDO is engaged in the development of Defence technologies across a wide range of critical domains including aeronautics armaments electronics land combat engineering life sciences materials missiles and naval systems IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/drdo-praised-by-iaf-indian-army-on-its-68thraising-day-656548.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kharsawan-firing-anniversary-jharkhand-cm-announces-judicial-panel-to-honour-martyrs-656551.html Ranchi Jan 1 While January 1 is celebrated across the world as the beginning of a new year the day remains a symbol of grief and sacrifice for Jharkhands Kharsawan Seventyseven years ago on January 1 1948 a few months after India attained independence the soil of Kharsawan was soaked in blood during a brutal firing on tribal protesters an incident often compared to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre On that fateful day thousands of tribals had gathered to oppose the proposal to merge the princely states of Kharsawan and Seraikela with the then Orissa The protest was triggered by the demand for a separate state and was met with indiscriminate police firing leaving scores deadAs every year large numbers of people assembled at the Martyrsâ Memorial in Kharsawan on Thursday to pay homage to those who laid down their livesJharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren former Chief Minister Arjun Munda Minister Deepak Birua Singhbhum MP Joba Majhi Chakradharpur MLA Sukhram Oraon Kharsawan MLA Dashrath Gagrai and Ichagarh MLA Sabita Mahato were among the leaders who visited the memorial on Thursday morning and paid floral tributes The Chief Minister announced the formation of a judicial panel to identify and honour those martyred during the massacreAfter paying tribute Soren said Today is Martyrsâ Day as well as the first day of the year For the world it is New Yearâs Day a day of celebration But for the tribals indigenous people farmers and labourers of Jharkhand January 1 is Martyrsâ Day Jharkhand is steeped in the history of sacrifice perhaps no other state has witnessed so many martyrsA draft has been prepared for this purpose A judicial inquiry commission will be constituted with retired judges as its members The martyrs of this firing will be honoured before the next Martyrsâ Day he saidThe firing was linked to the reorganisation of princely states following Independence A proposal to merge Kharsawan and Seraikela with Orissa had triggered strong opposition from the local tribal population who instead demanded a separate state To press their demand a massive public meeting was organised at the Kharsawan Haat ground on January 1 1948 under the leadership of renowned tribal leader Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh MundaTribal activists from Jamshedpur Ranchi Chaibasa Simdega Khunti Tamar and other areas had gathered in Kharsawan to participate in the meeting However Jaipal Singh Munda could not reach the venue for some reasonSubsequently the gathering decided to proceed towards the Kharsawan royal palace to convey their demands to the king Anticipating unrest the Orissa government had deployed a heavy police forceAs the crowd moved towards the palace police issued warnings to stop When these warnings went unheeded the police opened fire indiscriminately on the unarmed protestersThe Kharsawan firing is remembered as one of the most brutal episodes of repression in the history of Indiaâs tribal movementsIn a speech delivered on January 11 1948 Jaipal Singh Munda recounted that bodies were strewn across the Kharsawan market area while the wounded cried out for help and waterHe alleged that the administration sealed off the area preventing entry or exit and that by evening bodies were loaded onto trucks and disposed of in forests and riversEven after more than seven decades the exact number of those killed in the firing remains unknown The report of the tribunal constituted to investigate the massacre has also not been made public to date IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kharsawan-firing-anniversary-jharkhand-cm-announces-judicial-panel-to-honour-martyrs-656551.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/senior-officials-in-rajasthan-arrested-in-separate-bribery-cases-656553.html Jaipur Jan 1 Acting on the instructions of the AntiCorruption Bureau ACB Headquarters the ACBs Sawai Madhopur unit on Thursday arrested Suryaprakash Nama Senior Assistant posted at the District Industries Centre redhanded while accepting a bribe of Rs 25000 from a complainant Director General of Police ACB Govind Gupta informed that the Sawai Madhopur outpost had received a complaint alleging that the accused was harassing the complainant by demanding a bribe of Rs 30000 in exchange for depositing subsidy and interest subsidy amounts for three shops under the Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Dalit Incentive Scheme in the name of the complainantâs father and brothersFollowing the complaint a confidential verification was conducted on December 24 2025 which confirmed that Senior Assistant Nama had demanded a bribe of Rs 30000 and had later agreed to accept Rs 25000Subsequently under the supervision of Rajesh Singh Inspector General of Police ACB Bharatpur Range and Gyan Singh Chaudhary Additional Superintendent of Police ACB Sawai Madhopur a trap was laid The accused was caught redhanded while accepting the bribe amountInterrogation and further investigation in the case are being carried out under the supervision of Smita Shrivastava Additional Director General of Police ACB A case has been registered against the accused under the Prevention of Corruption Act and further investigation is underwayIn another incident following directions from the ACB Headquarters the Sikar unit of the AntiCorruption Bureau also arrested Rajesh Kumar Head Constable No 171 posted at Police Station Sadar Neemkathana redhanded while accepting a bribe of Rs 10000 from a complainant on ThursdayDGP ACB Govind Gupta said that the ACB Sikar outpost had received a complaint alleging that the accused had already taken Rs 10000 as a bribe on December 31 2025 and had subsequently demanded an additional Rs 10000The bribe was allegedly demanded in exchange for not naming the complainantâs brothers as accused in case number 4062025After verification of the complaint a trap was arranged on ThursdayUnder the supervision of the Deputy Inspector General of PoliceIII ACB Jaipur and Vijay Kumar Additional Superintendent of Police ACB Sikar unit the team caught Head Constable Rajesh Kumar redhanded while accepting the remaining bribe amount of Rs 10000Interrogation and legal proceedings against the accused are being conducted under the supervision of Smita Shrivastava Additional Director General of Police ACB A case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act and further investigation is in progress IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/senior-officials-in-rajasthan-arrested-in-separate-bribery-cases-656553.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-two-fake-policemen-arrested-near-patna-junction-656557.html Patna Jan 1 Patna Police have arrested two men who posed as police personnel and robbed a man of Rs 225 lakh in the Patna Junction police station area So far the police have recovered Rs 19 lakh while Rs 35 lakh is still missingThe incident occurred late on the night of December 29 and 30According to the victim two youths approached him claiming to be police officersBoth were wearing khaki jackets which led the victim to believe they were genuine policemenThe accused identified as Dipak Kumar and Raja Kumar then took him to a room threatened him and looted Rs 225 lakh before fleeing the spotFollowing the incident the victim lodged a complaint at the Patna Junction police stationActing on the complaint police initiated an investigation under the supervision of Station House Officer Rajesh Kumar SinhaUsing technical surveillance and CCTV footage the police identified one of the accused as a resident of KhusrupurDuring interrogation the first accused revealed information about his accomplice who lives near Patna JunctionInvestigators also discovered that the accused had saved a contact number in their mobile phones under the name Government Railway Police GRP to falsely present themselves as police officialsâBased on technical tracking both accused were located and arrested During subsequent searches police recovered Rs 95 lakh from the house of one accused and Rs 95 lakh from the other bringing the total recovery to Rs 19 lakhâ Kumar saidPolice believe the remaining Rs 35 lakh may have been hidden or discarded and efforts are ongoing to recover itPolice are currently interrogating both accused to ascertain whether more people were involved in the crimeMeanwhile Patna Police have appealed to the public to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a police officer and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police stationThe Rail Police has also informed the Income Tax department to investigate this case IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-two-fake-policemen-arrested-near-patna-junction-656557.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 04:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/inspired-by-shubhanshu-shukla-youth-to-lead-viksit-bharat-march-in-2026-vice-prez-656558.html New Delhi Jan 1 Hailing Group Captain Shubhanshu Shuklaâs space sojourn in 2025 Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Thursday hoped that in the New Year the energy of our youth rooted in our rich cultural ethos will lead the countryâs march towards the vision of Viksit Bharat2047 In a message for citizens on the first day of 2026 âI call upon the youth of India the custodians of the nationâs future to take five pledges for Bharat Mata on this New YearâThe pledges are To remain completely free from drugs to adopt technology responsibly and ethically using innovation and digital tools for nationbuilding and inclusive development to focus on physical and mental health by embracing an active lifestyle to uphold constitutional values integrity and social harmony and to contribute selflessly to the progress of the nation he saidDuring 2025 Operation Sindoor underscored Indiaâs determination to protect its citizens and sent a strong message to terrorists and their sponsors that justice and security will prevail and that any threat to our sovereignty will be met with firm and resolute action he saidHe said during the year Parliament enacted historic legislation reflecting the nationâs determined march towards Viksit Bharat while also witnessing significant deliberations including the commemoration of the 150th year of Vande MataramThe nation solemnly observed several landmark occasions including the 350th anniversary of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur the 150th birth anniversaries of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Vallabhbhai Patel the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee and the 100th birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee said RadhakrishnanHe also listed the nationâs achievements in the year gone byâIndiaâs achievements in science technology and space during 2025 further strengthened its position as a global innovation hub Under the leadership of the ISRO the successful SPADEX mission demonstrated satellite docking capabilities while the LVM 3M6 launch showcased Indiaâs growing heavylift capacityââThe mission of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station marked a significant step in Indiaâs expanding human spaceflight ambitionsâ he saidâIn the field of sports 2025 brought many moments of national pride Our Menâs Cricket Team lifted the ICC Champions Trophy while the Indian Womenâs Cricket Team created history by winning the ICC Womenâs Cricket World Cup for the first time India also won both the menâs and womenâs titles at the Kho Kho World Cupâ he said detailing achievements in the field of sportsMeanwhile Radhakrishnan will undertake a twoday visit to Tamil Nadu starting Friday for events including a university convocation a civic reception and a templeâs Golden Jubilee in VelloreâOn Friday the Vice President will preside over the 34th Convocation of Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute University Chennaiâ said a statementLater in the day the VicePresident will attend the Ram Nath Goenka Sahitya Samman ceremony at Taj Coromandel In the evening he will participate in a Public Reception at Kalaivanar Arangam Chennai This will be followed by a Civic Reception hosted by the Governor of Tamil Nadu at Lok Bhavan it saidOn Saturday the Vice President will attend the 50th Golden Jubilee Jayanthi Celebrations of Sri Sakthi Amma at Vellore Golden Temple In the afternoon he will attend the 9th Siddha Day Celebrations at Kalaivanar Arangam Triplicane Chennai IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/inspired-by-shubhanshu-shukla-youth-to-lead-viksit-bharat-march-in-2026-vice-prez-656558.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 04:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kyv-discontinued-for-cars-on-new-fastag-issued-after-feb-1-nhai-656559.html New Delhi Jan 1 The National Highways Authority of India NHAI on Thursday announced to discontinue the Know Your Vehicle KYV process for cars for all new FASTag issuances with effect from February 1 2026 This is a major step to enhance public convenience and eliminate postactivation harassment faced by highway users of cars jeeps and vansâThis reform will bring significant relief to lakhs of common road users who were facing inconvenience and delays after FASTag activation due to postissuance KYV requirements despite having valid vehicle documentsâ said the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in a statementFor existing FASTags already issued to cars KYV will no longer be mandatory as a routine requirementKYV will be required only in specific cases where complaints are received such as issues related to loose FASTags incorrect issuance or misuse In the absence of any complaint no KYV will be required for existing car FASTagsTo ensure accuracy compliance and system integrity while simplifying the process for users NHAI has simultaneously strengthened preactivation validation norms for Issuer BanksâFASTag activation will be permitted only after validation of vehicle details from the VAHAN database The earlier provision allowing validation after activation has been discontinued Where vehicle details are not available on VAHAN Issuer Banks must validate details using the Registration Certificate RC before activation with full accountabilityâ according to revised normsFASTags sold through online channels will also be activated only after complete validation by banksThese measures ensure that all vehicle verification is completed upfront removing the need for repeated followups with customers after FASTag activationAccording to the ministry these reforms reflect NHAIâs continued commitment to making the FASTag ecosystem citizenfriendly transparent and technologydriven while simultaneously strengthening compliance and reducing grievancesBy shifting the responsibility of validation entirely to Issuer Banks prior to activation NHAI aims to deliver a hasslefree experience for National Highway users IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kyv-discontinued-for-cars-on-new-fastag-issued-after-feb-1-nhai-656559.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 04:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/emotional-farewell-in-mps-rewa-students-break-down-as-their-beloved-teacher-retires-656561.html Rewa Madhya Pradesh Jan 1 The bond between a teacher and a student is built not merely in classrooms but through years of care guidance and silent sacrifices Such a bond was clearly visible in Rewa where the retirement farewell of a teacher turned into an overwhelming emotional moment leaving students teachers and villagers in tearsA deeply moving farewell ceremony was held at Kararia Upper Primary School in the Sirmaur Assembly constituency around 37 km from the district headquarters What was meant to be a formal goodbye soon transformed into a poignant scene of love and gratitudeAs Ganga Prasad Pandey a respected teacher who dedicated 42 years 10 months and 4 days to the education department prepared to leave the school premises on December 30 emotions spilled over Students clung to him hugged him tightly and broke down crying uncontrollably The sight was so powerful that the retiring teacher himself could not hold back his tearsWitnessing the studentsâ grief and affection fellow teachers and villagers present at the ceremony also became emotional turning the entire atmosphere solemn and tearfulWe may have heard countless stories about the sacred teacherstudent relationship but this incident from a government school in Rewa stood as a living example of that tradition It reflected how a dedicated teacher can shape lives far beyond classrooms and textbooksThough words failed him at the moment of farewell Ganga Prasad Pandey gently consoled his students saying âDonât worry Be a good citizenâ Holding the children in his arms he showered them with affection one last time a gesture that spoke louder than any speechAs he walked away from the school gates eyes moist and heart heavy it was clear that while a chapter had ended the values discipline and love he imparted would continue to live on in the lives of his students IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/emotional-farewell-in-mps-rewa-students-break-down-as-their-beloved-teacher-retires-656561.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 04:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-daily-newspaper-reading-mandatory-in-govt-schools-656562.html Jaipur Jan 1 The Education Department has launched an innovative and commendable initiative aimed at strengthening reading habits enhancing language skills and developing an understanding of current affairs among students studying in government schools across the state Under this new effort daily newspaper reading has been made mandatory for all government school students in RajasthanAs per the instructions 10 minutes will be dedicated during the morning assembly each day for reading important national international and sports news including editorials and major developments In addition five new words with their meanings will be introduced daily to enrich studentsâ vocabularyThis responsibility will be carried out by students from classes 6 to 12 Orders to this effect have been issued by the School Education SecretaryThe Education Department believes that this initiative will increase studentsâ interest in news expand their general knowledge and bring about improvement in their language and expression skills The step aims to nurture aware informed and confident citizens Further on âNo Bag Dayâ a collective assembly will be organised to discuss current eventsSenior secondary schools must subscribe to a minimum of two newspapers one English and one Hindi Every government upper primary school must subscribe to two Hindi newspapers Englishmedium government schools should subscribe to at least two newspapers one English and one Hindi During the morning assembly one English and one Hindi nationallevel newspaper must be read aloud âThis initiative of the Education Department will provide students with national international and sportsrelated information while also developing their reading habitsâ said the School Education Secretary IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-daily-newspaper-reading-mandatory-in-govt-schools-656562.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 04:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sabarimala-gold-theft-case-cm-vijayans-office-rejects-fabricated-story-claim-as-oppn-targets-p-sasi-656563.html Thiruvananthapuram Jan 1 The office of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday strongly refuted allegations by UDF convener and Congress MP Adoor Prakash that reports about the Special Investigation Team SIT likely to summon him in the Sabarimala gold theft case were fabricated by the CMO or the Chief Ministers political secretary P Sasi describing the claim as completely baseless and factually incorrect In an official statement the CMO clarified that the Kerala High Court appointed the SIT and operated under the supervision of a Division BenchThe investigation reports are submitted directly to the High Court and a strict court directive prohibits any disclosures of case detailsNeither the Chief Ministers Office nor the political secretary has any involvement in the investigation or in spreading information regarding it the release saidHowever the Leader of the Opposition V D Satheesan questioned the narrative asking if Adoor Prakash was a minister when the Sabarimala theft occurredHe highlighted that Kadakampally Surendrans questioning was kept secret while news circulated that Prakash might be summonedSatheesan emphasised that if the police summon him for evidence or testimony he will appearHe also pointed out that when Pinarayi Vijayan was Chief Minister and CPIM leaders held positions in the Devaswom Board it was the CPIM leadership not Congress who allegedly misappropriated gold and that recent claims are attempts to balance this realityMeanwhile Prakash told the media that if he gets a notice to present himself before the SIT he will first tell the media and wish that they accompany himI have nothing in this and will appear if the notice is served Whats in it for me in this asked PrakashThe Sabarimala gold theft case which has already revealed a largerthanexpected theft of gold from multiple sacred structures continues to intensify politicallyThe SITs courtmonitored probe remains ongoing and further reports and questioning are expected in the coming daysAs the government reiterates that it has no role in the investigation the controversy underscores a growing tension between judicial processes and political narratives with both sides seeking to shape public perception even as the High Courtsupervised investigation continues IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sabarimala-gold-theft-case-cm-vijayans-office-rejects-fabricated-story-claim-as-oppn-targets-p-sasi-656563.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-over-258-lakh-beneficiaries-provided-homes-in-three-years-656564.html Gandhinagar Jan 1 Gujarat has provided over 258 lakh beneficiaries with homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana â Gramin PMAYG over the last three financial years including 93000 houses constructed in the current year alone The scheme aims to provide dignified pucca housing to rural families previously deprived of adequate shelter improving living standards health sanitation and overall wellbeingThe PMAYG scheme is funded jointly by the Centre 60 per cent and the State 40 per cent providing Rs 120 lakh per house in phased assistance along with an additional Rs 50000 during the roofcast stage directly credited to beneficiariesâ bank accountsFurther around 3000 landless families have received assistance of up to Rs 1 lakh for purchasing plots ensuring they too can access a permanent homeUnder the guidance of Rural Development Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya and State Minister Sanjaysinh Mahida the Gujarat government continues to ensure that rural and landless citizens can fulfil their dream of owning a pucca houseâThese homes are not just structures they are the foundation for dignity security and prosperity in rural areasâ officials saidRecently in Narmada an ehome handover ceremony was held to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda with the special presence of Prime Minister Narendra ModiThe event witnessed the allocation of homes worth Rs 100819 crore to 61125 beneficiaries setting a benchmark for rural development and housing transformation in the StateThe PMAYG initiative continues to act as a beacon of hope for homeless families in rural Gujarat contributing significantly to the Stateâs vision of a developed India by 2047 by enabling citizens to move from temporary shelters to secure permanent homesThe Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana â Gramin PMAYG is a flagship rural housing scheme launched by the government of India to provide pucca houses with basic amenities to rural families living without adequate shelterFunded jointly by the Centre 60 per cent and the state 40 per cent the scheme offers phased financial assistance of Rs 120 lakh per house with an additional Rs 50000 provided at the roofcasting stage to help beneficiaries complete constructionPMAYG also extends support to landless families offering up to Rs 1 lakh for plot purchase ensuring access to a permanent home The programme emphasises dignity safety and improved living standards contributing to better health sanitation and socioeconomic upliftmentOver the past three years states like Gujarat have successfully provided homes to over 258 lakh rural families with special ehome handover events marking milestones often in the presence of national leadersBy enabling rural citizens to transition from temporary or inadequate shelters to secure wellconstructed homes PMAYG serves as a cornerstone of Indiaâs vision for inclusive rural development and a âHousing for Allâ mission significantly impacting livelihoods and community wellbeing IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-over-258-lakh-beneficiaries-provided-homes-in-three-years-656564.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/armys-central-command-promotes-maternal-wellness-mindful-living-656565.html Lucknow Jan 1 As part of an initiative to strengthen maternal care awareness and nurtures future generations with knowledge confidence and care the Central Command of the Indian Army organised a hybrid session for all formations on medical guidance and mindful living an official said on Thursday A hybrid session on Project Garbh Sanskar was conducted at the Shivam Auditorium at the Command Hospital in Lucknow connecting formations across the Armys Central Command and focusing on holistic maternal wellness through medical guidance and mindful living the official said in a social media messageDuring the session expert talks were delivered by Reema Kumari on diet during pregnancy and Varsha Kumari on diet and mind providing practical insights to support healthy motherhood and emotional wellbeing the official addedExpectant mothers spouses and families participated with great enthusiasm reflecting the Indian Armys commitment to informed parenting compassionate care and a strong support ecosystem for families the official saidEarlier the Armys Central Command extended greetings and best wishes to all citizens on the occasion of New Year 2026May the coming year bring peace prosperity strength and new opportunities for every Indian As we step into the new year we salute the indomitable spirit of our soldiers veterans their families and every citizen whose resilience and unity keep our Nation strong the Armys Central Command saidWe reaffirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the Nations sovereignty supporting communities and standing steadfast in service of the motherland Together let us continue to move forward with hope courage and national pride it addedThe Army has declared 2026 as the Year of Networking and Data CentricityAs part of the DecadeofTransformation the Indian Army declares 2026 as the Year of Networking amp Data Centricity Driven by indigenisation defence modernisation and digital integration this initiative will enhance connectivity realtime decisionmaking and combat effectiveness thereby strengthening resilience and agility for a futureready force the Army said in a social media message IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/armys-central-command-promotes-maternal-wellness-mindful-living-656565.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vodafone-idea-receives-gst-penalty-order-of-rs-63791-crore-to-take-legal-action-656566.html New Delhi Jan 1 Vodafone Idea on Thursday said it has received a GST penalty order of Rs 63791 crore passed under Section 74 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act CGST 2017 In an exchange filing the telecom company said it received the penalty order from the Office of the Additional Commissioner Central Goods and Services Tax CGST Ahmedabad South on December 31The order has been passed under Section 74 of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act 2017 âconfirming a penalty of Rs 6379068254 along with the demand of tax and applicable interestâ the company saidIt further stated that the âCompany does not agree with the Order and will take appropriate legal actions against the sameâThe order alleges short payment of Tax and excess availment of Input Tax Credit The maximum financial impact is to the extent of tax demand interest and penalty leviedHowever the telecom operator said it does not agree with the order and will take appropriate legal action against itEarlier on Wednesday Vodafone Idea issued a clarification after reports claimed that the Union Cabinet had approved a fiveyear moratorium and frozen the companyâs adjusted gross revenue AGR dues at Rs 87695 croreIn a stock exchange filing Vodafone Idea said the reports were speculative in nature and that it had not received any official communication confirming such a decision âWe have not received any communication from the Government in relation to the above reported matterâ the telecom operator stated in its exchange filingâAs and when there is any development which requires disclosure we will do the needfulâ it addedThe clarification came amid heightened market reaction to the reports Following the earlier report Vodafone Idea shares witnessed heavy selling pressureThe companyâs shares closed at Rs 1163 apiece up by 8 per cent on Thursday IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vodafone-idea-receives-gst-penalty-order-of-rs-63791-crore-to-take-legal-action-656566.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/you-are-my-greatest-inspiration-tej-pratap-on-his-mother-rabri-devis-birthday-656570.html Patna Jan 1 As people across the country welcome the New Year the day also marks the birthday of Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD leader and former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi On the occasion Rabri Devis elder son Tej Pratap Yadav extended heartfelt birthday wishes to his mother through a social media postDescribing her as his greatest inspiration Tej Pratap praised her strength sacrifice and unconditional loveIn his message Tej Pratap wrote Happy Birthday Mom You are the soul of our family Every smile every prayer every moment that feels like home is because of you You held things together even when we didnt know what it meant to hold things togetherHe further added You are my greatest inspiration You gave without counting loved unconditionally and stood strong even when no one saw how heavy the burden was They say when God cannot be everywhere He sends a mother and we are fortunate to have youHowever unlike previous years a notable silence prevailed at her official residence at 10 Circular Road PatnaIt is noteworthy that Rabri Devis residence is usually filled with visitors and celebrations during festivals and family occasions This year however the atmosphere remained subduedRabri Devi is currently alone in Patna though RJD leaders and wellwishers have been visiting the residence with bouquets to extend birthday greetings but there were no largescale celebrationsRabri Devis husband Lalu Prasad Yadav is currently in Delhi and recuperating after eye surgery while her son and Leader of Opposition in the Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Yadav is reportedly on a foreign trip with his wife Rajshree and their two childrenDespite being expelled from the party for six years and living separately from the family Tej Pratap Yadavs emotional message reflected his bond with his mother highlighting the personal dimension of the occasionRJD performed miserably in the recently concluded Bihar Assembly election securing only 25 seats IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/you-are-my-greatest-inspiration-tej-pratap-on-his-mother-rabri-devis-birthday-656570.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 05:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/committed-to-aravali-mountain-range-conservation-haryana-minister-656577.html Chandigarh Jan 1 Haryana Environment Forest and Wildlife Minister Rao Narbir Singh on Thursday said the government is committed to the conservation of the Aravali mountain range With this objective the government is implementing the Haryana Aravali Green Wall Project which focuses on addressing major environmental challenges such as desertification land degradation and drought A detailed action plan has been prepared to implement this project by 2030 Expressing gratitude to the Central government he said Haryana is getting the opportunity to host this important event at the IUCN Pavilion is a matter of pride for the state He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi landmark initiatives such as Mission LiFE Lifestyle for Environment and âEk Ped Maa Ke Naamâ have been launched which have transformed environmental conservation into a mass movement These initiatives are inspiring people at the global national and local levels to adopt sustainable lifestyles Inspired by the Prime Ministerâs vision and under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini the government has launched innovative initiatives such as Oxy Van Pran Vayu Devta Yojana and Van Mitra Yojana to promote community participation These schemes will prove to be a strong pillar in the direction of Aravali conservation The Forest Minister said a proposal has been prepared to provide an annual honorarium to farmers for the conservation of native tree species such as Jati and Roheda in the southern Haryana regions of Mahendragarh Rewari Narnaul Charkhi Dadri Badhra and Loharu on the lines of the Pran Vayu Devta Yojana This initiative aims to maintain greenery in the Aravali region and directly involve local communities in conservation efforts Rao Narbir Singh said the Aravali mountain range holds immense ecological significance for Haryana It acts as a natural barrier against desertification and is a vital source of biodiversity water security and climate balance The Aravali plays a crucial role in groundwater recharge improvement of air quality mitigation of climate change impacts and supporting livelihoods in arid and semiarid regions He said the Aravali range is globally recognised as a landscape of cultural and historical significance symbolising the deep relationship between humans and nature The Forest Minister said through the Aravali Green Wall Project Haryana is committed to cooperation with all Aravali states including Rajasthan Gujarat and Delhi Projects such as the Gurugram Aravali Biodiversity Park are successful models of ecosystem restoration and have been declared Indiaâs first OECM Other Effective AreaBased Conservation Measure validating IUCNâs global guidelinesRao Narbir Singh said that Haryana welcomes the new definition of the Aravali mountain range given by the Supreme Court He said the government has prepared a proposal to conserve nearly 90 per cent of the Aravali area The government aims to create green employment enhance public participation and strengthen biodiversity conservation and environmentally friendly resource management in the Aravali region IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/committed-to-aravali-mountain-range-conservation-haryana-minister-656577.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 06:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/1992-batch-ips-officer-singhal-takes-charge-as-haryana-dgp-656580.html Chandigarh Jan 1 The 1992batch IPS officer Ajay Singhal on Thursday took charge as the 42nd Director General of Police DGP of Haryana from the outgoing DGP OP Singh His father Om Prakash Singhal was present when he assumed chargeDGP Singhal said policing âis a dynamic and challenging responsibility that continuously evolves with changing crime patterns technology and public expectationsâHe emphasised that Haryana Police âis fully prepared alert and committed to dealing with emerging challenges through a planned phased and goaloriented strategy aimed at further strengthening law and order across the stateâHe reiterated that maintaining peace public safety and a strong lawandorder system will remain his topmost priorityHaryana Police he said will function as a cohesive and professional team ensuring accountability sensitivity and citizencentric policingDGP Singhal said the newlyintroduced criminal laws have been framed in accordance with the needs of a modern and progressive IndiaâThese laws aim to make the justice delivery system more efficient faster and victimcentric Haryana Police will implement these provisions effectively to make policing more proactive technologydriven and resultorientedâStrengthening public trust in the police remains a key priority The DGP announced that the grievance redressal mechanism will be made fully automated and more robust Complaints will be monitored through digital platforms to ensure timebound fair and qualitative resolutionHe said the stateâs conviction rate has already reached around 7273 per cent and focussed efforts will be made to further improve it towards the goal of 100 per centHighlighting womenâs safety as a priority area the DGP said a comprehensive and focussed strategy would be implemented to prevent crimes against womenTechnologyenabled surveillance will be strengthened and crimeprone hotspots will be scientifically identified for targeted interventions Special emphasis will also be placed on the protection of Dalits marginalised and vulnerable sections ensuring swift and strict action in cases of crimes against them IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/1992-batch-ips-officer-singhal-takes-charge-as-haryana-dgp-656580.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 06:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indore-dirty-water-death-toll-remains-uncertain-illnesses-rage-amid-govt-claims-656581.html Indore Jan 1 As residents of Bhagirathpura slum in Indore grapple with a deadly outbreak of vomiting and diarrhoea linked to contaminated water the Madhya Pradesh government has yet to release exact data on the number of fatalities Local claims suggest the death toll could be as high as 13 while official acknowledgments remain stuck at just four leaving families in anguish and no authority able to provide a definitive count Meanwhile new cases of illness are still emerging with more than 50 people currently hospitalised and reports of fresh admissions on Thursday The crisis which has unfolded over the past week highlights a stark discrepancy between ground realities and administrative reports Between December 25 and 31 2025 locals reported at least 12 deaths including recent claims from two families on Thursday The deceased include Arvind the son of Hiralal Kulkarni and Shankar both succumbing to symptoms of severe vomiting and diarrhoea local sources said Despite these accounts the district administration insists only four deaths are directly attributable to the outbreak caused by contaminated water This ambiguity has fuelled public outrage and political bickering Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari lambasted the Bharatiya Janata Partyled government saying Indore has consistently voted the BJP MPs and MLAs to power but they have poisoned Indores water The question arises 13 deaths have occurred and the Chief Minister says that only four deaths have occurred Was it the Chief Ministers responsibility to hide the death toll We have formed a committee and a complete investigation is underway We demand that the families of the deceased be given a compensation of one crore rupees each The Chief Minister should punish those responsible for this incident Reacting to State Congress President Patwaris claims against the BJPled state government State Urban Administration Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya who also serves as the local MLA visited the affected families on Thursday to distribute government relief cheques of Rs 2 lakh each However the gesture was met with resistance a victims family refused the aid expressing frustration over the state governments inaction A video of the protest has gone viral on social media capturing the Ministers encounter with angry residents who surrounded him complaining that dirty water has been supplied for the past two years despite repeated complaints If our complaints had been heard earlier so many people would not have died women in the area told Minister Vijayvargiya Vijayvargiya who left the spot on a scooter with BJP Corporator Kamal Waghela later addressed the controversy over the death toll before the media saying The administration officials have informed me that four people have died due to this outbreak but there are reports of eight or nine deaths here in Bhagirathpura We will verify this information and if found to be true the families of the deceased will be provided with financial assistance as announced by the Chief Minister Mohan Yadav He added that around 200 people have been admitted to hospitals with no one currently in immediate danger one patient remains on a ventilator but is stable Our effort is to save peoples lives and provide maximum service We are going to help those who are economically weak We will provide assistance from the government as well as from society The outbreak has prompted urgent interventions from local authorities Following initial reports of three deaths and about 149 hospitalisations the Indore District Magistrate Shivam Verma and District Municipal Commissioner Dileep Kumar Yadav inspected the area The municipal corporation is now supplying clean water directly to homes and ambulances have been stationed for symptomatic residents Minister Vijayvargiya said Minister Vijayvargiya also convened a meeting with the Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav and officials to address the water contamination issue Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has ordered an inquiry directing the Additional Chief Secretary of the Urban Development and Housing Department Sanjay Dubey with investigating the matterDubey visited the Bhagirathpura slum on Thursday morning to assess the situation Doctors treating the affected note that individuals with weaker immune systems including children and the elderly have been hit the hardest Most cases involve stomach infections manageable with medication but the persistence of new infections underscores the ongoing threat As Indore the cleanest city in India faces this public health scandal residents demand transparency and swift action With no exact death toll forthcoming and illnesses unabated the state governments response remains under scrutiny raising broader questions about water quality management in urban slums IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indore-dirty-water-death-toll-remains-uncertain-illnesses-rage-amid-govt-claims-656581.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 06:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/west-bengal-face-of-rg-kar-movement-resigns-from-junior-doctors-body-656582.html Kolkata Jan 1 Aniket Mahato one of the prominent faces of the protest movement by junior doctors in West Bengal against the ghastly rape and murder of a woman junior doctor of the staterun RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata within the hospital premises in August 2024 on Thursday tendered his resignation from the post of president of the âboard of trusteesâ of the West Bengal Junior Doctorsâ Front WBJDF the umbrella body spearheading the movement In his resignation letter addressed to the board of trustees Mahato said that although the decision was painful he was constrained to step down from the postWhile Mahato did not spell out the exact reasons behind his resignation in the letter he hinted at his dissatisfaction with certain decisions related to the formation of the executive committee of the frontAccording to Mahato the executive committee was constituted without establishing any defined relationship with the board of trustees and in disregard of legal advice He described the decisions related to the formation of the committee as âundemocraticâ and âinconsistentâ with the spirit of the movement seeking justice for the victimHe also claimed that he had repeatedly raised objections to the manner in which the executive committee was formed but his concerns were ignoredSources said that the executive committee of the WBJDF comprises 37 members and that differences between members of the board of trustees and the executive committee had emerged over the division of responsibilitiesHowever Mahato declined to offer detailed comments on his resignation when approached by the media He said that since he had quit before the formal voting on the new committee it would not be fair on his part to comment on the internal developmentsMahato said that the WBJDF had launched the movement on the RG Kar issue after receiving spontaneous support from millions of people âNow it is up to the front to decide on the future course of actionâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/west-bengal-face-of-rg-kar-movement-resigns-from-junior-doctors-body-656582.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/2-731-drunk-driving-cases-booked-in-greater-hyderabad-656586.html Hyderabad Jan 1 As many as 2731 people were caught driving vehicles under the influence of alcohol during New Year celebrations in three police commissionerates covering Greater Hyderabad In the special drive undertaken by police on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1 a total of 1198 drunk drive cases were booked in Hyderabad commissionerate limits Police in Cyberabad booked 928 cases while 605 motorists were caught in Rachakonda commissionerateThe Hyderabad traffic police conducted a special enforcement drive against drunken driving from 7 pm to 3 am to ensure road safety and prevent road accidentsThe primary objective of this special drive was to ensure that commuters reach their destinations safely to deter drunken driving and to minimize the risk of fatal and nonfatal road accidents during the New Year celebrationsHyderabad Joint Commissioner of Police Traffic R Venkateshwarlu said that the Hyderabad traffic police aimed to welcome the New Year without a single accident thereby enabling citizens to celebrate responsibly and safelyOf the total 1198 cases booked 1042 were twowheeler riders 51 were threewheelers and 105 were fourwheeler and other vehicle driversOffenders were categorised based on their Blood Alcohol Concentration BAC levels A total of 175 offenders had BAC levels ranging from 35 mg100 ml to 50 mg100 mlThe police registered 468 cases for BAC levels ranging from 51100 293 cases for 101150 and 163 cases for 151200Police said 51 offenders were found to have BAC levels ranging from 201250 and 31 offenders from 251300Seventeen cases were booked for BAC levels of above 300 mg100 mlThe Joint Commissioner said that there will be zero tolerance on drunken driving and this special drive will continue He urged the commuters to cooperate with Hyderabad traffic policeMeanwhile Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar thanked citizens for an incidentfree New Year He posted on âXâ that strong enforcement effective awareness and public support resulted in zero incidents with drunk driving enforcement drives everywhereâThis didnât happen by chance Awareness worked responsibility won and your cooperation made the difference Let us all continue working together to make Hyderabad a much more safer and truly global cityâ he wroteThe Commissioner also congratulated all officers for the successful conduct of New Yearâs Eve bandobast and the strict enforcement of drunkdriving laws IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/2-731-drunk-driving-cases-booked-in-greater-hyderabad-656586.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/commercial-lpg-cylinder-pricing-reflects-international-benchmark-pricing-govt-656588.html New Delhi Jan 1 Amid reports of a Rs 111 increase in the price of commercial LPG cylinders the Government on Thursday said that commercial LPG prices are marketdetermined and directly linked to international benchmarks Any revision in commercial LPG prices reflects changes in global LPG prices and related costs while domestic LPG prices for household consumers remain unchanged Ministry of Petroleum amp Natural Gas saidThe ministry said that India imports around 60 per cent of its total LPG requirementAs a result domestic LPG pricing is linked to international prices with Saudi Contract Price CP acting as the global benchmarkAccordingly revisions in commercial LPG prices reflect movements in global LPG prices and associated costs The prices of domestic LPG remains unchanged the ministry addedWhile the average Saudi CP increased by about 21 per cent from 385 per metric tonne in July 2023 to 466 per metric tonne in November 2025 domestic LPG prices in India were actually reduced by around 22 per cent during the same periodThe price came down from Rs 1103 in August 2023 to Rs 853 in November 2025To protect household consumers the effective price of a 142 kg domestic LPG cylinder which costs around Rs 950 is being provided at Rs 853 for nonPMUY consumers in DelhiFor beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana PMUY the effective price is even lower at Rs 553This marks a reduction of nearly 39 per cent for PMUY consumers compared to Rs 903 in August 2023 highlighting the Governmentâs focus on ensuring continued access to clean cooking fuel for economically weaker sections There has been no change in these pricesFor the financial year 2025â26 the Government has approved the continuation of a targeted subsidy of Rs 300 per domestic LPG cylinder for PMUY beneficiaries covering up to nine refills per yearAn expenditure of Rs 12000 crore has been approved for this purpose reinforcing the commitment to affordable clean energy for householdsDespite a rise in international LPG prices during 2024â25 the increased cost was not passed on to domestic consumersThis resulted in losses of about Rs 40000 crore for Oil Marketing Companies OMCs IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/commercial-lpg-cylinder-pricing-reflects-international-benchmark-pricing-govt-656588.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/two-terror-associates-arrested-in-jampks-ganderbal-arms-ammunition-and-cash-recovered-656590.html Srinagar Jan 1 Two terror associates including a woman have been arrested in JampKs Ganderbal district and arms ammunition and Rs 84 lakh cash were recovered from their possession police said on Thursday In a major breakthrough Jammu and Kashmir Police District Ganderbal successfully recovered arms ammunition and cash amounting to Rs 840500 and arrested 02 Persons during a lateevening operation a police statement said adding that the recovery was made by personnel of the Ganderbal police station in coordination with the Special Operations Group SOG near Gundrehman BridgeIt said that the police party acting on specific inputs intercepted a load carrier bearing registration number JK15B7309 during naka checking and upon its thorough search the following items were recovered from the possession of the accused one Chinese pistol one pistol magazine 4 pistol rounds 2 hand grenades and cash Rs 840500The accused have been identified as Ghulam Nabi Mir son of Mohammad Subhan Mir resident of Hajin Bandipora district and Shabnum Nazir daughter of Nazir Ahmad Ganie resident of Shalabugh GanderbalA case under relevant sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and the Arms Act has been registered at the Ganderbal police station and further investigation is underway to ascertain the source motive and possible linkages related to the recovered arms ammunition and cashGanderbal police remains committed to maintaining peace and security in the district and urges the public to cooperate and share any information related to antinational or criminal activities the statement saidIn their revised strategy JampK Police and the security forces have been carrying out aggressive antiterrorist operations targeting terrorists their associates overground workers OGWs and sympathisersThe coordinated efforts are aimed at dismantling the complete support system of terrorists rather than going after the gunwielding terrorists onlyDrug smugglers drug peddlers and those involved in the hawala money racket are also on the scanner of the security forces It is believed that the funds generated by these activities are finally used to sustain terrorism in JampK IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/two-terror-associates-arrested-in-jampks-ganderbal-arms-ammunition-and-cash-recovered-656590.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-governor-hosts-new-year-celebrations-at-lok-bhavan-656592.html Hyderabad Jan 1 Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma on Thursday hosted New Year 2026 Open House celebrations at Lok Bhavan here Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy several Cabinet Ministers senior bureaucrats and other prominent personalities called on the Governor and extended New Year greetingsHundreds of people from various walks of life across the state also participated in the celebrations exchanging warm New Year wishes with the GovernorGovernor Varma conveyed his heartfelt greetings to the people of Telangana wishing them a healthy happy safe and prosperous New YearPrincipal Secretary to the Governor M Dana Kishore and other senior officials of Lok Bhavan were present on the occasionMeanwhile several ministers called on Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy at his residence and conveyed New Year greetings to himMinisters Ponnam Prabhakar Seethakka Konda Surekha and Mohammed Azharuddin along with Members of Parliament Members of the Legislative Assembly Members of the Legislative Council and senior officials met the Chief Minister and greeted him on the occasionThe Chief Minister also released the diary and calendar of the Prison Department in the presence of senior officials from the departmentEarlier in the day Governor Jishnu Dev Varma virtually inaugurated the Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship Development IIED Cell at Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technologies RGUKT BasarThe Governor sanctioned funds from his discretionary quota for the establishment of the IIED Cell at RGUKT BasarNoting that RGUKT was established to provide technical education to rural youth the Governor said the new cell would help foster innovation and entrepreneurship among studentsHe said the IIED Cell would provide mentorship infrastructure support industry linkages and startup assistance to address challenges in agriculture healthcare and sustainability sectorsThe Governor urged students to pursue innovation with ethical values for inclusive growth and expressed confidence that RGUKT Basar would emerge as a leading innovation hub contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat He also assured all possible support to the IIED Cell in the futureMeanwhile Andhra Pradesh Governor S Abdul Nazeer along with First Lady Sameera Nazeer participated in New Year celebrations held at the Durbar Hall of Andhra Pradesh Lok Bhavan in Vijayawada where they cut a cake to mark the occasionChief Secretary K Vijayanand along with his wife presented a bouquet to the Governor and the First Lady and extended New Year greetings IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-governor-hosts-new-year-celebrations-at-lok-bhavan-656592.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/over-73-lakh-claims-and-objections-filed-during-sir-of-electoral-rolls-in-tn-656593.html Chennai Jan 1 The ongoing Special Intensive Revision SIR of the electoral rolls has witnessed a significant response from political parties and the general public with more than 73 lakh claims and objections received across Tamil Nadu during the review period from December 19 2025 to January 18 2026 top poll panel officials said on Thursday According to official data released by the Election Commission of India ECI authorities the figures reflect the level of public engagement in ensuring an accurate and inclusive electoral roll ahead of the upcoming state Assembly elections During the claims and objections window which was open until 8 pm on December 31 a total of 272148 representations were submitted by recognised political parties through their Booth Level Agents BLAs Among national parties the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP accounted for the highest number submitting 61438 claims along with 20 requests for inclusion and one objection seeking deletionThe Congress followed with 30592 claims while the Communist Party of IndiaMarxist CPIM submitted 3719 claims The Aam Aadmi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party filed 64 and 125 claims respectively and the National Peoples Party submitted 57 claims Among statelevel political parties the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam DMK recorded the highest number of submissions with 68260 claims The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam AIADMK followed closely with 67286 claims including 24 requests for inclusion and 63 for deletion The Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam DMDK submitted 36375 claims while the Communist Party of India CPI Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi VCK and Naam Tamilar Katchi NTK submitted 1442 245 and 2545 claims respectively In addition to submissions from political parties a large number of individual electors participated in the SIR process A total of 735191 applications were received for inclusion of names through Form6 and Form6A while 9505 applications seeking deletion of names were submitted using Form7 after the publication of the draft electoral roll Election officials noted that no claims or objections were received prior to the publication of the draft roll and no affidavits were submitted under Section 2g of the Representation of the People Act 1950 Authorities clarified that only properly submitted forms with valid declarations will be considered and the final electoral roll will be published after completing verification and scrutiny procedures IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/over-73-lakh-claims-and-objections-filed-during-sir-of-electoral-rolls-in-tn-656593.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jal-shakti-ministry-expands-odf-net-in-rural-india-during-2025-656595.html New Delhi Jan 1 The Jal Shakti Ministry made significant strides in 2025 under the Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen Phase II with over 83 per cent of villages declared as ODF Plus Model more than 527 lakh villages having arrangements for solid waste management and 541 lakh villages having arrangements for liquid waste management an official said on Thursday The Swachhata Hi Seva SHS 2025 campaign conducted during September and October witnessed mass participation and Jan Bhagidari from over 18 crore people including more than 13 crore individuals from rural IndiaInspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs nationwide call Union Minister for Jal Shakti CR Patil led a Shramdaan programme at Kalindi Kunj under Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 as part of the âEk Din Ek Ghanta Ek Saathâ initiativeThe Minister of State for Jal Shakti also engaged in a dialogue with more than 150 sarpanches ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebrations in 2025According to the official the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitationâs DDWS âHamara Shauchalay Hamara Bhavishyaâ campaign led to the repair and beautification of over one lakh Individual Household Latrines IHHLs and more than 550 Community Sanitary Complexes CSCsThe campaign also recorded over 49000 information education and communication IEC and behaviour change communication BCC events which saw participation from more than 32 lakh individuals the official saidSharing details on the Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen the official said it is a centrally sponsored scheme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 2 2014âThe mission aimed to make India Open Defecation Free ODF by October 2 2019 the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi The focus of SBMG Phase I was to provide access to toilets for all rural households across the countryâ the official said in a statementAs a result by October 2019 all villages nationwide had declared themselves ODF with rural sanitation coverage increasing from 39 per cent in 2014 to 100 per cent in 2019SBMG Phase II was launched in 2020 after India was declared ODF with the objective of achieving Sampoorna Swachhata and ensuring that no one is left behind in gaining access to individual household toilets and proper waste management systems while progressing towards ODF Plus Model village statusThe key objective of SBMG Phase II is to ensure that all villages sustain their ODF status and move towards becoming ODF Plus Model villages The programme focuses on ODF sustainability solid waste management liquid waste management and visual cleanlinessIn 2025 the total programme outlay for SBMG Phase II stood at over Rs 140 lakh crore As per the SBMG IMIS portal as of December 16 2025 more than 12 crore Individual Household Latrines and 267 lakh Community Sanitary Complexes have been constructed since October 2 2014Over 489 lakh villages have been declared ODF Plus Model of which more than 415 lakh villages have been verified as ODF Plus Model More than 527 lakh villages have arrangements for solid waste management over 5300 blocks have arrangements for plastic waste management and more than 541 lakh villages have arrangements for liquid waste management the statement saidUnder the GOBARdhan initiative more than 970 community biogas plants are currently functional As many as 21306 training programmes have been conducted covering 115274 gram panchayats the official added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jal-shakti-ministry-expands-odf-net-in-rural-india-during-2025-656595.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-surviving-on-imf-reviews-but-economy-remains-vulnerable-as-ever-report-656596.html New Delhi Jan 1 Pakistan is witnessing the institutionalisation of a survivalist economy where every policy choice is dictated by the need to pass the next International Monetary Fund IMF review regardless of whether that policy erodes the tax base for the next decade while the economy remains vulnerable as ever headed nowhere except most likely into another IMF programme as per a news report The report in Business Recorder by Shahid Sattar reveals that Pakistan suffers from a chronic twin deficit a fiscal gap spending more than it collects and a balance of payments crisis consuming more foreign exchange than it earnsFor fifty years our imports have hovered at double the rate of our exports as a percentage of GDP Simply Pakistan is a country that has failed to produce it addedThe report argued that the fundamental flaw in the IMFâs approach is a dogmatic adherence to revenue extraction at the cost of value creationBy forcing the government to meet rigid fiscal targets and through any means necessary at this point the Fund has encouraged policies that stifle the very exportled growth required to break the debt cycle it further statedThe historic economic model of state patronage was flawed and resulted in suboptimal allocation of resourcesBut there is a difference between weaning an addict off drugs and starving a healthy person The IMF programme appears unable to distinguish between withdrawing support and subsidies and actively destroying the ecosystem required for legitimate businesses to function the report further arguedOn paper the IMF deals with the Finance Minister and the Governor of the State Bank Technically all policies within the Letter of Intent are the governmentâs own ideasIn reality the programme reflects the behest of those holding the greatest political and economic leverage When policies fail the IMF claims the government designed them the government claims the IMF demanded them This ambiguity serves everyone but the country and its citizens the report lamentedUnless we reclaim our policymaking from the narrow revenuecentric confines of IMF programmes we are not just managing a crisis but rather our own decline it added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-surviving-on-imf-reviews-but-economy-remains-vulnerable-as-ever-report-656596.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/door-to-door-anaemia-prevention-drive-launched-in-jampks-ramban-656598.html Ramban Jan 1 The Health Department on Thursday intensified the Anaemia Mukt Bharat campaign in Jammu and Kashmirs Ramban district by organising a special awareness and training programme involving trained doctors ASHA workers and other female health staff During the programme ASHA workers were sensitised about effective strategies to prevent and manage anaemia among women and children Trained doctors educated participants on the identification prevention and management of anaemia while emphasising the crucial role played by ASHA workers in reaching out to communities at the grassroots levelMedical experts stressed that ASHA workers should regularly visit their assigned areas spread awareness identify anaemia cases at an early stage and ensure proper guidance and followupThe initiative aims to strengthen interventions at the ground level so that through collective and sustained efforts Ramban district can be made anaemiafreeSpeaking to IANS Dr Reyaz said that continuous efforts are being made under the Anaemia Mukt Bharat campaign in the district and gaps are being identified he added that an open discussion was held during the Ramban programme and work on the campaign would now begin at the grassroots levelHe also said that ASHA workers will administer Iron Folic Acid syrup to children aged between six months to five years at a dose of one millilitre per week The intake will be closely monitored and records will be maintained Once mothers are adequately informed they will be encouraged to administer the syrup themselves For children aged between five to nine years pink tablets will be given while blue tablets will be provided to children aged between 10 and 19 yearsDr Ankula said that ASHA workers were thoroughly briefed about the Anaemia Mukt Bharat programme during the event She said that the ASHA workers were trained on how to conduct doortodoor visits and ensure proper distribution of medicines to childrenThe campaign reflects the Health Departments commitment to combating anaemia through awareness early detection and sustained communitylevel intervention across the Ramban district IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/door-to-door-anaemia-prevention-drive-launched-in-jampks-ramban-656598.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/manipur-ed-attaches-assets-worth-rs-3366-crore-in-investment-fraud-case-656599.html Imphal Jan 1 The Enforcement Directorate ED has issued a second Provisional Attachment Order PAO attaching assets worth Rs 3366 crore belonging to two private companies in Manipur their sole director and others in connection with an alleged cheating case involving nearly 5000 gullible investors officials said The Imphal SubZonal office has issued 2nd Provisional Attachment Order PAO to the tune of Rs 3366 crore on Ms Birla Emporium Pvt Ltd Ms Ira Finance Pvt Ltd its Director Yumnan Irabanta Singh and others in relation to cheating of 5000 gullible investors ED initiated the investigation based on FIR registered by the CID Crime Branch Manipur under various Sections of the Indian Penal Code IPC 1860 against Yumnam Irabanta Singh Director of Ms Birla Emporium Pvt Ltd and Ms Ira Finance Pvt Ltd Through the FIRs it was alleged that during the period from 2019 to 2021 Yumnam Irabanta Singh was operating a fraudulent investmentdeposit scheme that promised investors a high return but finally he and his associates had siphoned off several individual depositors funds Investigation revealed that Singh and his entities were operating an unauthorised deposit scheme by collecting huge amounts of money from the public with a promise of exorbitant returns According to ED Singh along with his associates has cheated approximately 5000 investors of Manipur and thereby caused wrongful loss to these gullible depositors to the tune of more than Rs 250 crore and subsequent wrongful gain to himselfIt is also revealed that the Ms Birla Emporium Private Limited and Ms Ira Finance Private Limited have given loans to publicborrowers against the security of their property Loan Against Property and the properties of the loanees were transferred and registered in the name of the Directors and staff of Ms Birla Emporium Private Limited by executing the sale deed The ED said that the company closed its doors to the depositors in the first quarter of 2020 without returning the promised funds to them The properties which were registered in the name of the promoters were also kept under their custody without returning them Further these funds which are Proceeds of Crime POC were subsequently utilised in the acquisition of several properties The ED had earlier identified and provisionally attached various movable and immovable properties in the name of Ms Birla Emporium Pvt Ltd Yumnam Irabanta Singh Director of the company and his associates amounting to Rs 2802 crore Further Prosecution Complaint for confiscation of attached properties has been filed before the Special PMLA Prevention of MoneyLaundering Act court Imphal East on 06062025 against Ms Birla Emporium Pvt Ltd and Shri Yumnam Irabanta Singh and others Further course of investigation led to the identification of 121 more immovable properties which are registered in the name of Ms Birla Emporium Pvt Ltd Ms Ira Finance Pvt Ltd Yumnam Irabanta Singh Director of the company and his associates which were obtained out of POC In this regard the immovable properties amounting to Rs 3366 crore are provisionally attached So far a total amount of Rs 6168 crore pertaining to various movable and immovable properties in the name of Ms Birla Emporium Pvt Ltd Yumnan Irabanta Singh and his associates have been provisionally attached Further investigation is underway IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/manipur-ed-attaches-assets-worth-rs-3366-crore-in-investment-fraud-case-656599.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/263-people-held-over-1-300-cases-filed-for-traffic-violations-during-new-years-celebrations-in-kolkata-656602.html Kolkata Jan 1 A total of 263 people were arrested and around 1301 cases were filed for traffic violations during the New Years celebrations in Kolkata police said on Thursday According to Kolkata Police sources to maintain the law and order on the New Years Eve an active operation was conducted across the city resulting in the arrest of 263 people for various offences A large quantity of prohibited items was also recovered during the operation Nearly four kg of illegal firecrackers were seized by the police officials said Additionally 1695 litres of illegal liquor were confiscated from various parts of the cityBesides maintaining the law and order the Kolkata Police also kept a close watch on the citys traffic management on New Years Eve Traffic checks were conducted throughout the night to prevent accidents and ensure public safety officials added Cases were filed against several drivers for violating traffic laws while driving cars and motorcyclesAccording to data shared by the Kolkata Traffic Police a total of 1301 incidents of traffic violations were recorded on New Years Eve The highest number of violations involved triple riding 235 cases Action was taken against 480 people for riding motorcycles without helmets officials said A total of 178 cases were filed for reckless driving in Kolkata Nearly 149 people were caught driving under the influence of alcohol officials added Additionally 259 more cases were registered for various other traffic violationsThe Kolkata Police said that this strict surveillance and active operation helped prevent any major untoward incidents in the city on New Years Eve The police added that with the cooperation of the general public law and order and traffic management were largely kept under control It has been announced that such strict measures will be maintained in the future to ensure the safety of the citys residents at the beginning of the New Year The surveillance will continue across the city later this month in view of the Gangasagar Mela camps Republic Day celebrations and the International Kolkata Book Fair IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/263-people-held-over-1-300-cases-filed-for-traffic-violations-during-new-years-celebrations-in-kolkata-656602.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/special-intensive-revision-gains-momentum-in-kerala-656605.html Thiruvananthapuram Jan 1 The ongoing Special Intensive Revision SIR of the electoral rolls saw a good response from political parties and the general public with around 60061 claims and objections received in Kerala Keralaâs Chief Electoral Officer on Monday released the daily bulletin of the Special Intensive Revision SIR covering claims and objections up to December 31 2025 against the draft electoral roll of 25442352 electorsThe claims and objections period opened on 23rd December and will go on till 22nd January 2026The representations were submitted by recognised political parties through their Booth Level Agents BLAsThe various political parties which submitted include six national partiesThe CPIM with 21246 led from the front Congress â 20278 BJP â 7249 AAP 175 Bahujan Samaj Party 5 and National Peopleâs Party9Among the state parties which submitted include CPI 5120 IUML 4289 JD S 27 Kerala Congress â 474 Kerala Congress M â 493 and RSP 596 A total of 405308 applications were received for inclusion of names through Form6 and Form6A while 2419 applications seeking deletion of names were submitted using Form7 after the publication of the draft electoral rollBefore the publication of the draft roll 359 lakh applications for inclusion and 30202 applications from overseas electors were receivedIn the same period 2419 objections seeking the deletion of names were filedAfter the publication of the draft roll an additional 28529 applications for inclusion and 6242 overseas elector applications were received directly from voters along with 37 objections seeking deletionsThe Election Commission has clarified that only applications submitted in prescribed forms are treated as valid claims or objections and that general complaints or representations without the required documentation are not countedThe claims and objections window will remain open until January 22 after which the final electoral roll will be prepared IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/special-intensive-revision-gains-momentum-in-kerala-656605.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 08:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/new-year-turns-tragic-3-young-lives-lost-in-muzaffarpur-and-begusarai-accidents-656606.html Patna Jan 1 While people across Bihar welcomed the New Year with celebrations two devastating road accidents in Muzaffarpur and Begusarai plunged families into grief turning joy into mourning A tragic road accident occurred near Gobarsahi Chowk under the Sadar police station area of Muzaffarpur where two young men lost their livesAccording to police the victims were riding a motorcycle at high speed when they lost control and rammed into a road divider in the early hours of Thursday around 1230 amThe impact was so severe that the motorcycle was destroyed Both riders were thrown onto the road and sustained critical injuriesDespite efforts by locals and police to rush them to the hospital both died on the wayThe deceased have been identified as Rishabh Kumar resident of Prabhat Nagar under the jurisdiction of Sadar police station and Shashi Ranjan Kumar resident of the Sahebganj police station areaSadar SHO Ashmit Kumar confirmed the incident stating that preliminary investigation indicates overspeeding and loss of control as the causeThe bodies were sent to Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital SKMCH for postmortem examination Further investigation is underwayAs news of the deaths reached their homes the familiesâwho were waiting to welcome the New Year with their sonsâwere left shattered A pall of grief spread across their localitiesIn another tragic incident on New Yearâs Day a road accident in Begusarai claimed the life of an 18yearold youth and left two others injuredThe accident occurred on State Highway55 near Hardiya Middle School under the Mufassil police station area when three friends were returning on a motorcycle after visiting Kanwar LakeThe deceased has been identified as Gaurav Kumar 18 son of Raja Ram Pandit a resident of Hanspur Ward2 under Nayagaon police stationThe injured include Premchand son of Lakhan Sah seriously injured and undergoing treatment at a private clinic and Subodh Kumar son of Ramkishore Mahto who sustained minor injuriesAccording to Subodh Kumar their motorcycle collided with a cart parked on the roadsideAfter the collision Gaurav fell onto the main road where a speeding HIWA truck BR31GC0746 ran over him killing him instantlyWith the help of locals police seized the truck and detained the driverThe victimâs body was sent to Sadar Hospital for a postmortem The Mufassil police are investigating the incidentGaurav Kumar was the only son and sole earning member of his familyHis father works as a mason The sudden loss has left the family facing an uncertain future and grief has engulfed the entire neighbourhood IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/new-year-turns-tragic-3-young-lives-lost-in-muzaffarpur-and-begusarai-accidents-656606.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 09:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-govt-approaches-police-to-expose-conspiracy-behind-fake-narrative-on-teachers-dog-count-duty-656608.html New Delhi Jan 1 The Delhi governmentâs Education Department has filed a formal police complaint against attempts to spread falsehoods and create a fake narrative that school teachers in the city are proposed to be deployed for counting stray dogs an official said on Thursday Director of Information Publicity Sushil Singh told mediapersons that though the department had issued a âFake newsâ alert such doctored videos and social media content it was necessary to uncover the conspiracy behind itâThe complaint has been filed to look into the role of individuals who have amplified the conspiracy through social media platformsâ he saidHe said the culprits were trying to achieve objectives other than political criticismSingh criticised the misuse of social media for spreading falsehoods and said the police have been requested to investigateSingh said The Directorate of Information and Publicity is addressing the media today to highlight the misuse of social media platforms and how falsehoods about government decisions are created through fake reels and videosââThe objective of the Directorate of Education and the Directorate of Information and Publicity is to set the record straight explain how misinformation spreads and outline the governmentâs response A false narrative was circulated alleging that government school teachers were directed to count stray dogsâ he said blaming some vested interestsMany reels were circulated on social media and in some clips some people were impersonating teachers and giving false and misleading statements related to dog count duty he saidâThis claim was baseless and fabricated and it presented an impression that there was an official order whereas there was no such directiveâ he saidThe false claim originated from the misrepresentation of a routine circular by the Directorate of EducationThe Directorate has clarified that no such circular was issued âThis was not routine political criticism It created public outrage and undermined the position of the Directorateâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-govt-approaches-police-to-expose-conspiracy-behind-fake-narrative-on-teachers-dog-count-duty-656608.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 09:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/election-commission-interacts-with-jana-sena-delegation-on-electoral-reforms-656609.html Amaravati Jan 1 The Election Commission of India ECI on Thursday interacted with a delegation of the Jana Sena Party to seek its suggestions on electoral reforms Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr Vivek Joshi held discussions with the Jana Sena delegation at Nirvachan Sadan in New DelhiThe Jana Sena Party delegation comprised its representatives E Pratap Kumar and RMV Sumanth However the party has not issued any statement detailing the suggestions it submitted to the ECI during the interactionThe Jana Sena Party JSP headed by Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan is a constituent of the Telugu Desam Partyled ruling coalition in the stateThe Election Commission has been holding meetings with leaders and representatives of recognised political parties as part of its efforts to further strengthen electoral processes within the existing legal framework The Commission has invited suggestions from all national and state political partiesIt was in March 2025 that the Commission had envisaged interactions with party presidents and senior leaders at mutually convenient times to discuss measures to strengthen electoral processes in accordance with established lawThe ECI has also urged political parties to proactively utilise the mechanism of decentralised engagement with election authoritiesIn July the Commission had interacted with a delegation from the Telugu Desam Party TDP during which the party suggested strengthening electoral roll verification through annual thirdparty audits conducted under the Comptroller and Auditor General CAG of India to identify anomaliesThe TDP delegation had also urged the ECI to initiate the Special Intensive Revision SIR process in Andhra Pradesh at an early stage and advocated that deletion of any voter name should be based on a reasoned order proper notice and an opportunity for the elector to respondThe party further called for the use of AIdriven tools to flag duplication migration and deceased entries in real time to improve electoral roll managementThe TDP a partner in the BJPled NDA government at the Centre had made these suggestions with the aim of enhancing transparency and strengthening the electoral processTDP Parliamentary Party leader Lavu Krishna Devarayalu had submitted a letter containing the partyâs suggestions to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/election-commission-interacts-with-jana-sena-delegation-on-electoral-reforms-656609.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 09:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-lauds-bjp-legislator-suresh-kumars-bengaluru-kanniyakumari-cycling-feat-656610.html New Delhi Jan 1 Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised senior BJP leader S Suresh Kumar an MLA from the Rajajinagar Assembly constituency in Bengaluru for his feat of cycling from the Karnataka capital to Kanniyakumari describing the effort as commendable and inspiring particularly in view of the health challenges he overcame at the age of 70 In a post on social media platform X PM Modi on Thursday said Suresh Kumars achievement highlighted grit determination and the importance of fitness He also said he spoke to Suresh Kumar and personally congratulated him for the effortShri S Suresh Kumar Jiâs feat of cycling from Bengaluru to Kanniyakumari is commendable and inspiring The fact that it was done after he overcame health setbacks highlights his grit and unyielding spirit It also gives an important message of fitness Spoke to him and congratulated him for the effort the Prime Minister wrote on XSuresh Kumar a former Karnataka minister and senior BJP leader completed a 702km cycling journey from Bengaluru to Kanniyakumari in five days The journey drew attention for being undertaken at the age of 70 and after he recovered from serious health issuesIn a separate post on X Suresh Kumar said he was thrilled to receive a call from PM Modi congratulating him on the cycling expedition He said the Prime Minister was keen to know about the details of the journey and its significanceI was really thrilled to receive a call from none other than Honble PM of Bharath narendramodi congratulating me for my 702 kms cycling to Kanyakumari He was happy to know that after 51 years this was my second cycling to Kanyakumari that too after suffering a serious ailment Suresh Kumar postedThis was Suresh Kumars second cycling journey to Kanniyakumari the first having been undertaken over five decades ago His latest effort has been widely shared on social media with many highlighting the message of perseverance and physical fitnessPM Modi has on several occasions emphasised the importance of physical fitness and an active lifestyle encouraging citizens to adopt healthier habits through initiatives such as Fit India IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-lauds-bjp-legislator-suresh-kumars-bengaluru-kanniyakumari-cycling-feat-656610.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 09:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kcr-creating-water-disputes-to-save-brs-says-tgana-cm-revanth-reddy-656612.html Hyderabad Jan 1 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday alleged that the former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao KCR is creating water disputes between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to keep his party afloat The Chief Minister accused KCR of trying to save Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS by inciting regional sentiments and raking up the name of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in TelanganaHe also accused the BRS President KCR of skipping the state Assembly due to fear of being questioned over siphoning of funds in the name of irrigation projectsThe Chief Minister was speaking at a meeting where State Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy made a powerpoint presentation on irrigation projects and river water issues before Ministers Congress legislators other public representatives and senior officialsThe powerpoint presentation was made to prepare Ministers and MLAs to counter the attack by Opposition BRS in the state Assembly during the debate on irrigation and river water issuesThe Chief Minister dared KCR to come to state Assembly and participate in the debateRevanth Reddy recalled that the Telangana movement was mainly for the water rights If the water of Krishna and Godavari rivers was fully utilised during the 10year rule of BRS Telangana would have made huge progressSaying that 811 TMC of Krishna water was allocated to undivided Andhra Pradesh and after bifurcation Andhra Pradesh was allocated 512 TMC while Telangana was earmarked 299 TMC the Telangana Chief Minister saidHe claimed that the then Chief Minister KCR signed documents accepting 299 TMC for Telangana KCRs signature became an advantage for Andhra Pradesh He agreed for 66 per cent water share for Andhra Pradesh and 34 per cent for Telangana he saidChief Minister Revanth Reddy added that if the course of Krishna river is analysed Telangana should get 71 per cent of its water KCR did not make strong arguments in this regard Today Krishna River Management Board is saying that KCR had accepted 299 TMC he saidRevanth Reddy added that since the very existence of BRS is at stake following the defeat in the state Assembly and Lok Sabha elections and state Assembly bypolls Realising this KCR is again trying to create water dispute between the two states to save his party As part of this he is making false propaganda against the Congress government he saidThe Chief Minister claimed that KCR did not submit detailed project report DPR for the PalamuruRangareddy Irrigation Project for seven years Without preparing DPR he spent Rs 27000 crore Since DPR was not prepared there was no environmental clearance for the project he saidRevanth Reddy said when cases were filed in the Supreme Court to stop construction of Palamuru project without approvals the KCR government filed an affidavit saying that it is not an irrigation project The Supreme Court was told that the project will utilise only 715 TMC for drinking water purpose he addedHe alleged that KCR paid Rs 27000 crore to pump and lift companies for commissions He KCR conspired to make it a lift project so that he can make more commissions CM Revanth Reddy saidHe added that Palamuru project was originally designed to draw water from Jurala but KCR realised that if this was done there will be no need for lifting the water Hence KCR changed it to Srisailam However only 025 TMC could be drawn from Srisailam back waters he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kcr-creating-water-disputes-to-save-brs-says-tgana-cm-revanth-reddy-656612.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/west-bengal-to-hold-workshop-for-bengali-medium-students-to-overcome-fear-of-english-656614.html Kolkata Jan 1 For a long time students studying in Bengalimedium schools in West Bengal have been grappling with a fear of the English language Due to a lack of confidence in speaking writing and understanding English many students tend to fall behind academically To address this longstanding concern the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education WBCHSE has taken a special initiative A special workshop has been organised at the beginning of the new year with the objective of helping such students overcome their fear of the English language and build confidenceA senior official of the state Education Department said on Thursday that the special training camp will be held at Vidyasagar Bhavan in Salt Lake from January 5 to January 9 Organised by the WBCHSE the workshop will be attended by students from more than 150 Bengalimedium schools across the stateAs many as 2000 students will receive practical training in the English language during the fiveday programme Classes will be conducted in two sessions each day with around 200 students participating in each sessionThe students selected for the workshop are Class XI students who have English as their second language The Council has observed that students from Bengalimedium schools often display hesitation and fear when it comes to speaking and writing in EnglishOfficials pointed out that proficiency in English plays a crucial role in higher education and future career opportunities Keeping this in mind the Council has taken this step to help students overcome their inhibitions and strengthen their communication skillsPriyadarshini Mallick Secretary of the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education said âThis initiative aims to eliminate the fear of English that exists among students of Bengalimedium schools Initially it is being introduced for students from a few districts Gradually this type of training will be extended to students from all districts of the stateâIn the first phase students from schools in North 24 Parganas South 24 Parganas parts of Howrah and Kolkata have been given the opportunity to participate in the workshopEducationists said that if the initiative proves successful it could bring about a significant improvement in English language learning among students of Bengalimedium schools in West Bengal IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/west-bengal-to-hold-workshop-for-bengali-medium-students-to-overcome-fear-of-english-656614.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/youth-shot-dead-by-unidentified-assailants-in-bihars-katihar-gang-rivalry-suspected-656615.html Patna Jan 1 An unfortunate incident has shaken Katihar district in Bihar after unidentified miscreants opened fire on a youth killing him on the spot police said on Thursday The incident occurred near the NH77 at Kursela Chowk under the Kursela police station areaThe incident has triggered panic and fear across the regionThe deceased has been identified as Sagar Jha alias Mithu Jha a resident of Kataria village under Kursela police stationAccording to SubDivisional Police Officer SDPO Ranjan Kumar Singh Mithu Jha had a criminal background and was recently released on bail in connection with the highprofile Mithun Yadav murder case of NavgachiaMithu Jha has a criminal record He was allegedly involved in a murder case Besides two Arms Act cases were also registered against his name He was currently on bail in a murder case SDPO Singh saidPolice say the incident may be linked to an old rivalry or gang war though the exact motive is still under investigationThe incident occurred around 545 pm at the busy NH77 Kursela Chowk a time when traffic and public movement were highThe sudden attack created chaos in the area After committing the crime the accused fled the spot brandishing firearms and firing in the airUpon receiving information the Kursela police rushed to the spotMithu Jha lost his life at the crime spot The Kursela police recovered Jhas body and sent it to the Sadar Hospital for a postmortemGiven the seriousness of the incident we have cordoned off the area and launched an intensive investigation A CCTV footage from nearby locations is being examined to identify the attackers the SDPO addedSDPO Singh said that the case is being thoroughly investigated and police teams are raiding suspected hideouts to arrest those involvedHe added that additional police forces may be deployed in Kataria village and nearby areas to prevent any escalation of tensionFollowing the incident security has been tightened and police remain on high alert to maintain law and order in the region IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/youth-shot-dead-by-unidentified-assailants-in-bihars-katihar-gang-rivalry-suspected-656615.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/grand-celebration-marks-fifth-sannyasa-initiation-birth-anniversary-of-swami-kailashanand-giri-in-haridwar-656616.html Haridwar Jan 1 The spiritual city of Haridwar witnessed a magnificent celebration as the fifth Sannyasa initiation and birth anniversary of Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Niranjan Peethadheeshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri Maharaj of Niranjani Akhara unfolded with profound devotion and grandeur at âShri Dakshin Kali Templeâ The ceremony presided over by Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Rajrajeshwarashram Maharaj brought together an illustrious gathering of spiritual luminaries including Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad President Mahant Ravindrapuri Juna Peethadheeshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri Patanjali Yogpeeth General Secretary Acharya Balkrishna Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Balakanand Giri Acharya Lokesh Muni Parmarth Niketan head Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Swami Brahmaswaroop BrahmachariProminent figures from politics administration education and social service joined thousands of devotees from across India and abroad creating an atmosphere charged with reverence and unityTributes poured in for Swami Kailashanand Giri with Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Rajrajeshwarashram describing him as a profoundly learned saint whose life inspires all and whose efforts significantly advance the propagation of Sanatan Dharma and culture globallyShri Mahant Ravindrapuri emphasised the resurgence of Sanatan Dharma in the modern era crediting great saints for raising its flag worldwide and highlighting Swami Kailashanand Giris pivotal role in this movementAcharya Balkrishna praised his leadership in spreading spiritual knowledge guiding devotees toward welfare and upholding religious traditionsEchoing these sentiments Swami Avdheshanand Giri Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Swami Balakanand Giri lauded his extraordinary penance and spiritual discipline as a miraculous example noting that only dedicated disciples like him truly perpetuate a gurus legacyUttarakhand Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri extended warm congratulations affirming that the companionship of saints illuminates the path to true welfare and humbly sought their blessingsIn a heartfelt response Swami Kailashanand Giri expressed deep gratitude to the assembled saints and guests proclaiming that the Guru represents the second form of GodHe shared his immense fortune in receiving guidance from his revered guru Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Rajrajeshwarashram and pledged to dedicate his life to preserving Niranjani Akharas traditions while leading society toward righteousness and spiritualityAdding to the occasions prestige Bharatiya Janata Party National General Secretary BL Santosh and Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari personally called to offer congratulations and seek the revered Gurudevs blessingsThe events gracious touches included garlanding of honoured guests by Swami Kailashanand Giris disciple Swami Avantikanand Brahmachari and former MLA Sangeet Som with Acharya Pawandutt Mishra skillfully managing the stage proceedingsAmong the distinguished attendees were Mahamandaleshwar Swami Vedavyasanand from America various mahants and swamis Uttar Pradesh ministers media incharge Shantanu Shukla and countless devoted followersThe celebration not only honoured Swami Kailashanand Giris milestones but also symbolised the vibrant enduring spirit of Sanatan Dharma inspiring all present with its message of devotion unity and spiritual upliftment IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/grand-celebration-marks-fifth-sannyasa-initiation-birth-anniversary-of-swami-kailashanand-giri-in-haridwar-656616.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-government-announces-major-ias-reshuffle-656619.html Bhubaneswar Jan 1 A day after 1991 batch IAS officer Anu Garg took charge as the new Chief Secretary the state government on Thursday announced a major reshuffle in the senior IAS cadre The reshuffle marks one of the first major administrative moves under Chief Secretary Anu Gargâs leadership signalling an active restructuring of roles for improved governance and departmental coordinationAmong significant changes effected by the state government the 1993batch IAS Deoranjan Kumar Singh will replace Garg as the new development commissioner of the state Singh currently holding the post of Additional Chief Secretary ACS Revenue amp Disaster Management RampD department Member Board of Revenue Special Relief Commissioner SRC Managing Director Odisha State Disaster Management Authority OSDMA and Chairman Odisha Forest Development Corporation OFDC has been appointed as the Development CommissionercumAdditional Chief Secretary and Secretary Planning amp Convergence Department He will remain in additional charge of the Additional Chief Secretary to the government Revenue amp Disaster Management DepartmentSimilarly 1991batch Satyabrata Sahu the incumbent ACS Home Department and Forest Environment amp Climate Change has been posted as Member Board of Revenue Odisha CuttackThe 1995batch Hemant Sharma ACS Industries Department with additional charge of I ampPR Department and Chairman IPICOL has been assigned the additional charge of ACS Home Department Shubha Sarma the 1999batch IAS officer currently serving as Principal Secretary Women amp Child Development has been given additional charge of Principal Secretary Water Resources DepartmentThe 1999batch Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma incumbent Principal Secretary Excise department and CMD Odisha Power Transmission Corporation Limited OPTCL Chairman Odisha State Beverages Corporation Limited OSBCL has been assigned additional charge as Principal Secretary Forest Environment amp Climate Change Department The 2005batch officer Rajesh Prabhakar Patil CommissionercumSecretary Cooperation department Chairman Odisha State Warehousing Corporation OSWC and Special Secretary Housing amp Urban Development has been given additional charge of SRC and MD OSDMAMadhumita Rath IAS SCS2015 Additional Secretary to the Government School amp Mass Education Department has been appointed as Collector and District Magistrate Nayagarh Meanwhile the incumbent Nayagarh collector the 2019 batch IAS Akshay Sunil Agrawal has been transferred and posted as the Collector amp District Magistrate Gajapati The General Administration amp Public Grievance Department issued a detailed notification on Thursday in this regard IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-government-announces-major-ias-reshuffle-656619.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 10:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bhupendra-patel-govt-fast-tracks-satellite-cities-under-gujarat2047-vision-656621.html Gandhinagar Jan 2 IANS In a step towards achieving the vision of Developed India by 2047 and Developed Gujarat2047 the Bhupendra Patel government has accelerated plans for the strategic development of Tier2 and Tier3 citiesnbspAligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of strengthening smaller urban centres the state under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has initiated the process to develop five satellite towns by 2030 and has invited urban planners to prepare comprehensive master plans for these citiesAs part of the implementation process tenders have been floated to appoint experienced national and international urban planning consultants The selected planners will be tasked with preparing master plans within a year aiming to equip these towns with metropolitanlevel infrastructure and civic amenities The move is expected to reduce pressure on major cities while creating new economic and employment hubs closer to urban centresUnder the states Earning WellLiving Well urban development approach Sanand near Ahmedabad Savli near Vadodara Kalol near Gandhinagar Bardoli near Surat and Hirasar near Rajkot were identified as the first five satellite towns These cities will be developed as economically vibrant centres with integrated planning for transport industry tourism education and healthcarenbspA satellite town is defined as a city located within approximately one hours travel from a major urban centre developed to absorb population growth and economic activity By strengthening these towns the government aims to create balanced urbanisation generate local employment opportunities and ease infrastructure stress on major citiesThe proposed satellite towns will feature worldclass infrastructure organised public transport including electric buses advanced water supply and waste management systems ring roads urban forest parks developed lakes model fire stations and mixeduse zones where residential commercial and office spaces coexistnbspTo ensure swift execution dedicated approval and monitoring committees have also been constituted Highlighting the importance of urban areas Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that cities are the growth engines of the nation and must be developed as centres of economic activity to build a developed IndiaHe has noted that a large number of Indias startups are emerging from Tier2 and Tier3 cities many of them led by women and represent the vast untapped potential of smaller urban centresnbspWith this initiative Gujarat is positioning its smaller cities as key drivers of future growth marking a decisive leap towards inclusive and sustainable urban development in the decades leading up to 2047 https://dailyworld.in/national/bhupendra-patel-govt-fast-tracks-satellite-cities-under-gujarat2047-vision-656621.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/-priyanka-chaturvedi-seeks-urgent-govt-attention-on-ai-apps-on-x-sexualising-women-656622.html New Delhi Jan 2 IANS Shiv Sena UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi on Friday urged the government to pay urgent attention to the rising incidents of AI apps especially on Elon Muskled social media platform X sexualising womennbspIn a letter to IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw she asked for guardrails to be implemented on AI chatbots like Grok to make social media platforms a safe space for women She also urged better education of men from an early age to not become sick pervertsHave sought urgent attention and intervention of the IT Minister to take the issue of increasing incidents of AI apps being prompted to sexualise and undress women by unauthorised use of their images on social media Chaturvedi shared in a post on social media platform XnbspThere have to be guardrails put in place by features such as Grok that do not violate womens dignity big tech firms need to take the onus And I wish men indulging in such behaviour were educated better at their homes ampamp schools so as to not become such sick perverts in their adulthood she addedIn the letter posted on X the Shiv Sena UBT MP called out on an emerging trend on social media especially on X where men with fake accounts are misusing the AI Grok feature to post womens photos and pushing out prompts to Grok to minimise their clothing and sexualise themnbspIt is not just limited to sharing photos through fake accounts but are also targeting women who post their own photos she saidnbspCalling it unacceptable and gross misuse of an AI function Chaturvedi also lashed out at Grok for enabling this behaviour by adhering to such requestsChaturvedi called it breach of womens right to privacy as well as a criminal act She stated that similar incidents are going absolutely unchecked on other platformsnbspI write to you as an active member of the Standing Committee on IT ampamp Communication to urge you as a minister to take this up strongly with X to ensure safeguards are built in their AI apps to make the platform a safe space for womenOur country cannot be a bystander to womens dignity being violated publicly and digitally with zero consequences under the garb of creativity and innovation condone such prompts While we welcome AI and its role in making lives easier for the world we will not allow a proliferation of such demeaning acts towards women the Rajya Sabha MP said https://dailyworld.in/national/-priyanka-chaturvedi-seeks-urgent-govt-attention-on-ai-apps-on-x-sexualising-women-656622.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/clean-water-isnt-favour-its-right-to-life-lop-rahul-gandhi-targets-mp-govt-over-indore-water-crisis-656623.html New Delhi Jan 2 IANS Leader of the Opposition LoP in the Lok Sabha and senior Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Friday launched a sharp attack on the BJPled government over the deaths linked to contaminated drinking water in Indore calling the incident a murder of the right to life and accusing the administration of negligence arrogance and a complete failure of accountabilitynbspIn a post on X LoP Gandhi said In Indore there was no water just poison being distributed while the administration slumbered like KumbhakarnanbspHe said mourning had spread from home to home with the poor left helpless Those whose hearths have gone cold needed solace the government served up hubris instead he added criticising statements made by BJP leaders in the aftermath of the tragedyThe Congress leader said residents had repeatedly complained about dirty foulsmelling water but alleged that authorities failed to act in timenbspRaising a series of questions Rahul Gandhi asked how sewage mixed with drinking water why the supply was not shut off immediately and when action would be taken against responsible officers and leaders These arent freebie questions theyre demands for accountability Clean water isnt a favour its a right to life he said holding the BJPs doubleengine government responsible for the deathsnbspIndore often showcased as Indias cleanest city for its sanitation achievements is currently grappling with a serious public health emergency In the Bhagirathpura locality residents reported foulsmelling bittertasting and discoloured water being supplied through municipal pipelines Soon after consuming the water people began suffering from vomiting diarrhoea dehydration and high fever leading to a surge in hospital admissionsThe situation quickly escalated into a waterborne disease outbreak According to officials at least nine deaths have been confirmed so far while around 200 patients have been admitted to hospitals for treatment Preliminary assessments suggest that sewage may have mixed with the drinking water supply due to infrastructure lapses triggering the crisisnbspWater contamination is a major global public health concern The World Health Organization WHO has warned that consuming unsafe water can cause serious illnesses such as bacterial gastroenteritis cholera typhoid and dysentery particularly affecting vulnerable populationsLinking the Indore incident to what he described as a broader pattern of misgovernance in Madhya Pradesh LoP Gandhi said the state has become an epicenter of administrative failure citing deaths linked to cough syrup in one place children dying due to rats in government hospitals in another and now fatalities caused by sewagemixed drinking water He also took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that every time the poor die Modi ji as always remains silentnbspAuthorities have launched an investigation into the contamination while residents continue to demand accountability and assurances of safe drinking water https://dailyworld.in/national/clean-water-isnt-favour-its-right-to-life-lop-rahul-gandhi-targets-mp-govt-over-indore-water-crisis-656623.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-govt-submits-status-report-on-indore-water-crisis-says-four-died-200-in-hospitals-656624.html Indore Jan 2 IANS Madhya Pradesh government submitted a status report in the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on Friday on the ongoing contaminated water crisis in the citys Bhagirathpura areanbspThe approximately 15page report officially stated that four persons have died due to the consumption of contaminated waternbspIt further mentioned that around 200 people are admitted to various hospitals with 35 of them in intensive care unitsnbspThe case a Public Interest Litigation filed by advocate Ritesh Inani who is president of Indore High Court Bar Association was listed before the division bench of Justice Dwarka Dhish Bansal and Justice Rajendra Kumar VaniPetitioner Ritesh Inani described the governments submission as coming at the eleventh hour in a hothaste manner The government has submitted its report and according to it only four persons have died due to consumption of the contaminated water supplied to them The report which is approximately 15 pages says as many as 200 people are in hospitals and 35 are in the intensive care unit ICU of different hospitals The court has listed the matter for further hearing on January 6 he saidAn intervenor in the matter urged the court to impose restrictions on media publications regarding the issue to prevent misinformation However the bench did not make any comment on this requestnbspWhile official figures confirm four deaths circulating reports suggest the toll could be as high as 15nbspAuthorities have been asked to continue to supply clean water through tankers and provide medical care amid the public health emergencynbspIndias cleanest city for eight consecutive years is reeling from a severe public health crisis as contaminated drinking water in the Bhagirathpura area has led to multiple deaths and widespread illnessnbspSewage mixing with the municipal water supply due to a pipeline leakage near a poorly constructed toilet has triggered an outbreak of acute diarrhoea vomiting and dehydration https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-govt-submits-status-report-on-indore-water-crisis-says-four-died-200-in-hospitals-656624.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 14:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cong-seeks-govt-reply-on-bangladeshi-player-in-ipl-bidding-row-656638.html New Delhi Jan 2 IANS As renowned Kathavachak Devkinandan Thakur on Friday criticised Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan after his Indian Premier League IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders KKR bought a Bangladeshi cricketer the Congress on Friday said that the government must be questioned on the issue of allowing Bangladeshi players to participate and also pointed out that soon after the Pahalgam terror attack an IndiaPakistan cricket match was playednbspParty leaders further alleged that Shah Rukh Khans name and identity were being deliberately targeted which is why Devkinandan Thakur Ram Bhadracharya and several BJP leaders were making such statementsnbspThe controversy follows Thakurs claim that KKRs decision has hurt the sentiments of Hindus across the country especially in light of alleged atrocities against minorities including Hindus in BangladeshnbspSpeaking to IANS Congress National Spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said I do not know who this person is or what kind of individual he is but the government must be questioned Hindus in Bangladesh are allegedly being brutally targeted continuously Something happened just yesterday and similar incidents have occurred earlier as well In one instance a person had to jump into a pond to save his life What is the government doing about this Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not speaking on the issue The government is neither using diplomatic channels nor taking concrete stepsShe further questioned the authorities saying The question should be directed at Jay Shah as to why the Bangladeshi player was allowed to participate The question should also be asked of Amit Shah Why was this permitted No one is discussing these issuesnbspCongress leader Rakesh Sinha alleged selective outrage and said His name is Shah Rukh Khan That is why Devkinandan Thakur Ram Bhadracharya and several BJP leaders are making such statements When the incident happened in Pahalgam where 26 women lost their husbands they were also Hindus Immediately after that incident and right after the ceasefire an IndiaPakistan cricket match was playedQuestioning the silence of religious leaders he added Where were these kathavachaks then Where were Devkinandan Thakur and other socalled spiritual leaders Why did they not oppose playing cricket with Pakistan If they had objections why did the BCCI permit this in the IPL Why are they not questioning the Home Minister on this issuenbspHe further alleged They are reacting now only because it is Shah Rukh Khans team That is why all this noise is being created These are planted saints of the ruling party That is why such statements are being made with the backing of the government There was no statement or objection during the IndiaPakistan cricket match They are instructed that if names like Javed or Shah Rukh Khan are involved then make an issue out of it If Shah Rukh Khan is being called a traitor then those who made IndiaPakistan matches possible should also be questionedCongress leader Harish Rawat dismissed the controversy saying This is like bringing together two incompatible things one mute and one deaf What can be said about it This is not even a matter worthy of commentnbspNCP SP Rajya Sabha MP Fauzia Khan also criticised the selective targetingnbspShe said Why did you play a match with Pakistan after Operation Sindoor If playing a match with Pakistan is acceptable then why does it become wrong if Shah Rukh Khan signs a Bangladeshi player This HinduMuslim politics must stop It is extremely backward primitive and uncivilised to discuss such matters in the name of religionnbspShe further said Now that you are in power you should stop these things Why are you spreading hatred across the worldnbspCPIM leader Hannan Mollah condemned the mixing of religion politics and sportsI always condemn any leader who mixes religion and politics with sports games and culture Sports and culture should be kept completely separate from such influences Religion and politics are often used for dubious and unhealthy purposes he saidnbspSamajwadi Party spokesperson Ashutosh Verma also criticised the remarksDevkinandan Thakur or any baba should first pay attention to their own followers Do they even know what is happening in the country When Operation Sindoor was going on the Indian government later played matches with Pakistan At that time Devkinandan Thakur was probably busy with his devotees he saidnbspVerma added The influence of such babas lasts only as long as they stay away from politics Our humble request is that they focus on public welfare talk about peoples issues and stay away from the countrys politics and international affairsResponding to the criticism BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo said Sports should not be linked with politics However when it comes to national interest emotions naturally rise Hindus in Bangladesh have been facing continuous atrocities The central government has summoned the Bangladesh High Commissioner twice and strongly demanded that these atrocities be stopped Arrests were made and an SIT was formed These statements reflect personal views based on concerns over atrocities against HindusBJP MP Yogendra Chandolia said Devkinandan Thakur may be speaking from a religious perspective but when Hindus are being targeted emotions are natural If Shah Rukh Khan wants to stay in Mumbai or in the country there are many Indian players he could have chosen Deliberately signing a Bangladeshi player appears to provoke controversy This is wrong and the contract should be terminated https://dailyworld.in/national/cong-seeks-govt-reply-on-bangladeshi-player-in-ipl-bidding-row-656638.html Fri, 02 Jan 2026 15:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/devotees-throng-himachal-temples-to-seek-new-year-blessings-656464.html Shimla Jan 1 A large number of devotees assembled in different parts of Himachal Pradesh on Thursday the first day of 2026 to express gratitude for the past and seek blessings for the future One of the busiest shrines in North India the hilltop Naina Devi temple in the Bilaspur district saw a majority of pilgrims from Punjab Haryana Chandigarh and Delhi according to temple officialsThe popular shrines of Chintpurni in Una district and Jwalaji and Brajeshwari Devi temples in Kangra district witnessed a huge rushâWe are expecting a daily arrival of 15000 to 20000 devotees till this weekendâ an official at the Naina Devi shrine told IANS over the phoneMeanwhile security has been increased to manage the crowds at all prominent shrines a senior police official told IANS hereGovernor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu have extended best wishes to the peopleThe Chief Minister hoped the New Year would bring abundant happiness to everyone and serve as a symbol of renewed aspirations fresh resolutions and positive energy He said the people of the state have stood shoulder to shoulder with the government while facing challenges The state faced several disasters in 2025 but even then it was a year of development and achievements during which new benchmarks were set in the fields of education health agriculture and infrastructure from its own resources besides the resolve and firm commitment of the government to eradicate âchittaâ a chemical narcotic he saidCM Sukhu assured that the government would continue to stand firmly for the welfare of the people and the fight for the overall interests of the state in the future as wellIn his message the Governor hoped the New Year would bring peace happiness and prosperity to every household and usher in new opportunities for progress and developmentHe said the New Year âis a time for renewal of hope positive thinking and collective resolve to build a stronger healthier and more inclusive societyâHe urged residents especially the youth to adopt values of discipline compassion and social responsibility and contribute actively towards a drugfree healthy and prosperous state IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/devotees-throng-himachal-temples-to-seek-new-year-blessings-656464.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 09:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/braving-biting-cold-devotees-throng-golden-temple-shrines-to-usher-in-new-year-656467.html ChandigarhAmritsar Jan 1 Braving biting cold hundreds of devotees thronged the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar Punjab and other shrines in the region early on Thursday to usher in the New Year At the Golden Temple complex around 250 km from here the devotees queued up since midnight to offer prayers Long queues could be seen on Thursday morning with people waiting for their turn to offer prayers inside the Harmandir Sahib the sanctum sanctorumSeveral devotees could be seen taking a dip in the holy sarovar in the Golden Temple âWe are really blessed to offer prayers in the Golden Temple on the first day of the New Year May 2026 be filled with prayers answered and goals achievedâ Kavita Gupta a devotee from Delhi saidAlso people thronged the Mata Mansa Devi shrine in Panchkula near Chandigarh to offer prayersElsewhere in Punjab Haryana and Chandigarh people offered prayers at various shrines to mark the New YearPunjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria has extended warm greetings and best wishes to the people of Punjab and Chandigarh on the occasion of the New YearIn his message the Governor said the arrival of the New Year is always welcomed with renewed hope optimism and aspirations He emphasised that these aspirations can be realised only through collective effort guided by zeal determination and dedicationOn this joyous occasion Kataria called upon the people to reaffirm their resolve to build a strong peaceful and united India and to rededicate themselves to working for the nationâs progress and prosperityThe Governor conveyed his heartfelt greetings and wished everyone a happy healthy and prosperous New YearPunjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has also extended greetings and wished that the Almighty may fulfil all the dreams of Punjabis in 2026 He prayed to God to give happiness peace success and prosperity for all Punjabis residing across the globe âWe should follow the path shown by Guru SahibâHe urged the people to do regular exercise in their lives so that they remain hale and heartyExtending the New Year greetings Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann prayed that the Almighty fill peoples lives with happiness and success In a post on X he wrote that last year his government provided the people of Punjab with better health facilities good education for children and employment for youthWe took strict action to remove stigmas like drugs and corruption from the forehead of Punjab he said adding that the development works will continue IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/braving-biting-cold-devotees-throng-golden-temple-shrines-to-usher-in-new-year-656467.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 09:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kharge-rahul-priyanka-extend-new-years-greetings-pray-for-happiness-prosperity-656468.html New Delhi Jan 1 The Congress party extended warm New Years greetings to the nation on Thursday wishing for the happiness good health and prosperity for the countrymen Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge extending his greetings on X called on the people to fight for their fundamental rights and safeguard the Constitutional valuesLet us make this year a mass movement to protect the rights of the vulnerable the right to work the right to vote and the right to live with dignity Together let us safeguard our Constitution and democratic values empower citizens and strengthen harmony in society he saidEmployment for our youth safety for women prosperity for farmers dignity for those on the margins and a better quality of life for all these must be our shared resolve May the year ahead bring happiness prosperity and progress to every one of you Kharge addedLeader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also took to social media and extended his wishesHeartfelt New Year greetings to all of you May the new year bring abundant happiness good health and success into your life Rahul Gandhi saidCongress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra took to X and wished the countrymen on the occasionHeartfelt New Year wishes to all of you May the New Year be filled with happiness peace prosperity and joy for everyone May there be mutual affection cooperation and goodwill among all fellow citizens she saidIndia welcomed the New Year with grand celebrations countdown parties and festive gatherings as state governments across the country stepped up security measures to ensure that the celebrations passed off smoothly and without incidentIn major metropolitan cities including Delhi and Mumbai large crowds thronged iconic landmarks such as India Gate Connaught Place and Marine Drive to usher in the New Year creating a vibrant and festive atmosphereMeanwhile authorities across the country issued traffic advisories guidelines for restaurants and hotels and deployed additional security forces in anticipation of massive footfall in public places IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kharge-rahul-priyanka-extend-new-years-greetings-pray-for-happiness-prosperity-656468.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 09:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-govt-announces-major-administrative-promotions-on-first-day-of-2026-656478.html Gandhinagar Jan 1 The Gujarat government on Thursday announced a major reshuffle and promotion exercise in the state administration granting promotions to senior IAS and IPS officers across multiple batches The decision taken on the very first day of 2026 was formalised through an official notification issued by the General Administration Department GADAs per the notification five senior IAS officers of the 1996 batch have been promoted from the rank of Principal Secretary to Additional Chief Secretary ACSRajiv Topno has been appointed ACS in the Health and Family Welfare Department Mona K Khandhar in the Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department Dr T Natarajan in the Finance Department Mamta Verma in the Industries and Mines Department and Mukesh Kumar in the Higher and Technical Education Department In another key decision the state government approved the selection grade for 13 IAS officers of the 2013 batch with the benefit coming into effect immediatelyOfficers currently serving as Chief Executive Officer of WASMO Collectors of Bhavnagar Navsari Dahod KhedaNadiad and Gir Somnath as well as the Municipal Commissioner of Vadodara have been granted the selection gradeSeveral Joint Secretaries and senior secretariat officers have also been redesignated as Additional Secretaries following the approvalThe GAD has also promoted seven IAS officers of the 2010 batch to the Super Time Scale Among those promoted are KutchBhuj Collector Anand Patel Ahmedabad Collector Sujit Kumar Bhavnagar Municipal Commissioner Dr Narendra Kumar Meena Technical Education Commissioner BH Talati Information Department Commissioner KL Bachchani Patan Collector Tushar Y Bhatt and Prime Ministerâs Office Private Secretary Dr Hardik ShahPromotions were also announced in the police cadre Seven IPS officers of the 2013 batch have been elevated to Selection Grade Level 13 carrying a pay matrix of Rs 215 lakhOfficers from Ahmedabad City SOG and Economic Wing CID Crime Western Railway Cell State Monitoring Cell Vadodara Central Jail and an officer on central deputation Manish Singh are among those promotedIn addition 14 IPS officers have received further promotions IPS officer Narasimha Komar has been promoted while Dr Vipul Agarwal has been elevated to the rank of Additional Director General of Police ADGP and Dr Rajkumar Pandian to the rank of Director General of Police DGPSeveral officers of the 2012 batch have been promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector General DIG with some officers upgraded assigned new responsibilities and intercadre deputation officers also granted promotions as per rulesThe largescale promotion exercise is seen as a move to strengthen administrative leadership and streamline governance across key departments in Gujarat at the start of the new year IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-govt-announces-major-administrative-promotions-on-first-day-of-2026-656478.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-gang-rape-case-taluq-health-officer-booked-for-destroying-evidence-656479.html Koppal Jan 1 A taluk hospital health officer has been named as an accused in the FIR on charges of destruction of evidence in connection with a gangrape case in Karnatakas Koppal district police said on Thursday According to the police although the accused in the gangrape case were arrested within a few hours of the incident the role of Yalaburga taluk health officer Dr Shivakumar in allegedly protecting the accused has come to light during the investigationThe police have booked the health officer under Section 238b of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS which pertains to knowingly causing evidence of an offence to disappear or providing false information to shield an offender from legal punishmentThe police stated that the negligence of the health officer is prima facie evident Police personnel had signed the materials and evidence collected in the presence of the doctor However it is alleged that the accused doctor ensured that 16 pieces of material and DNA evidence gathered during the investigation were concealedBy this act the doctor allegedly helped the accused evade the course of justice Even after the police sought the evidence and questioned him the accused officer reportedly displayed arrogance the police saidThe gangrape occurred on November 17 following which the police arrested four men in connection with the caseThe arrested persons were identified as Laxmana and Basavaraj both residents of Gajendragadh and Mutturaj and Shahikumar from YalaburgaAccording to the police the accused committed the crime at a dilapidated house near MadduraIn her complaint the victim stated that she knew one of the accused Laxmana who owed her Rs 5000Under the pretext of returning the money he called her to Kushtagi townHe allegedly took her on a motorcycle and made her drink juice laced with an intoxicating substance Later the other accused joined him and committed the crimeThe police have registered the case under relevant Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-gang-rape-case-taluq-health-officer-booked-for-destroying-evidence-656479.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/snowfall-in-jampk-tourist-spots-gives-new-year-revellers-joy-plains-miss-whiteout-656480.html Srinagar Jan 1 Light snowfall occurred in the higher reaches of Kashmir Valley during the last 12 hours as the plains were lashed by rain on Thursday The revellers had a great time in Gulmarg Sonamarg and Pahalgam tourist resorts where snowfall occurred on the New Years Eve The tourists could be seen singing and dancing to welcome the new yearScores of tourists also gathered at the city centre Lal Chowk in Srinagar braving the winter chill to usher in the new yearHotels lodges and guest houses are completely sold out in the Valley this time giving renewed hope to thousands of locals connected with the tourist industry that 2026 will be peaceful and bring good fortune to the people The tourist flow to the valley suffered immensely following the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 2025 Now with the winter tourism reviving the people in the valley are praying for more snowfallThe residents of Srinagar and other towns and cities in Kashmir missed the traditional snowfall on New Years Eve dampening the spirits of children who had planned snowrelated sports and activities to celebrate the momentSrinagar city had 22 degrees Celsius Gulmarg minus 55 and Pahalgam 04 as the minimum temperatureJammu city had 107 degrees Celsius Katra town 87 Batote 57 Banihal 39 and Bhaderwah one degree as the minimum temperatureThe 40daylong period of intense winter cold locally called the âChillai Kalanâ started on December 21 2025 and will end on January 30 2026If JampK misses a heavy snowfall during this 40daylong period then people may face serious problems in irrigation for agriculture horticulture and even in meeting the drinking water needs Heavy snowfall in Chillai Kalan replenishes the perennial water reservoirs in the mountains which sustain the various water resources of Jammu and Kashmir during the summer months Already various rivers streams springs wells and lakes are running at their lowest due to a lack of sufficient rainsnow this winter December 2025 has recorded a 28 per cent deficit in rainfall IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/snowfall-in-jampk-tourist-spots-gives-new-year-revellers-joy-plains-miss-whiteout-656480.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pmk-leader-urges-direct-procurement-of-sugarcane-for-pongal-gift-scheme-656481.html Chennai Jan 1 PMK President Anbumani Ramadoss urged the Tamil Nadu government to directly procure sugarcane from farmers and distribute two canes per family as part of the Pongal gift hamper warning that delays and unclear policies were pushing cultivators into distress In a statement on Thursday Anbumani said that with barely two weeks left for the Pongal festival the government was yet to announce clear details about the gift package or confirm whether sugarcane would be includedThis uncertainty he said had created anxiety among farmers who had cultivated paneer karumbu or SengKarumbu expecting assured procurement by the stateHighlighting the financial strain on cultivators Anbumani said the cost of growing sugarcane had risen to nearly Rs 225 lakh per acre covering planting maintenance harvesting and labour However farmers were being paid only Rs 18 to Rs 19 per cane even though the official procurement price stood at Rs 35He alleged that middlemen were exploiting farmers by taking a share of the produce and charging high transport and handling costs leaving cultivators with little or no profitThe PMK leader also criticised what he termed as impractical procurement norms particularly the requirement that only sugarcane longer than seven feet would be accepted Such conditions he said result in the rejection of large quantities of produceDistributing only one sugarcane per family he added goes against tradition and reduces demand further affecting farmersâ incomes Anbumani pointed out that the area under sugarcane cultivation in Tamil Nadu has been shrinking steadily over the past few years due to recurring losses To reverse this trend he urged the government to fix the procurement price at Rs 50 per cane eliminate middlemen and ensure the supply of two sugarcanes per ration card as part of the Pongal packageIn a separate statement he also expressed concern over growing law and order issues referring to a recent violent attack on a migrant worker at Tiruttani railway stationThe incident he said highlighted the rising menace of drug abuse and alcoholrelated violence in the stateMeanwhile CPIM state secretary P Shanmugam also called on the government to strengthen the Pongal gift scheme by including one kilogram of jaggery along with rice and sugar He stressed that direct procurement from farmers would not only support cultivators but also uphold the spirit of the harvest festival IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pmk-leader-urges-direct-procurement-of-sugarcane-for-pongal-gift-scheme-656481.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-welcomes-the-new-year-with-rain-hailstorm-656483.html Jaipur Jan 1 Rajasthan experienced widespread rain hailstorms dense fog and an intense cold wave on Thursday marking a chilly start to the New Year across the state Intermittent rainfall was reported in several districts including Jaipur Chittorgarh Ajmer Kota and Sikar Chittorgarh received heavy rain for about half an hour around 5 am while Ramgarh Sikar also witnessed intense showersLate Wednesday night hailstorms in Bikaner caused a sharp drop in temperature raising concerns among farmersRain accompanied by strong winds was also recorded in Jodhpur Phalodi Barmer and Bikaner resulting in a decline of 2â3 degrees Celsius in temperaturesAlwar recorded a minimum temperature of 8 degrees Celsius in the state while Bikaner and Jaisalmer recorded a minimum temperature of 96 degrees CelsiusThe Meteorological Department has issued rain alerts for districts in the Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions cold wave and dense fog warnings for most parts of Rajasthan Dense fog severely reduced visibility in Jaipur Jaisalmer Bikaner and SriganganagarJaisalmer remained fogcovered for the second consecutive day while Jaipur appeared shrouded in mist especially in areas like Amer and NahargarhDespite the weather conditions many tourists were seen visiting destinations around Jaipur This first spell of rain of the season is expected to benefit Rabi crops although hailstorms have increased farmers concerns in some regionsOverall the New Year has begun with severe winter conditions across Rajasthan driven by the impact of a Western DisturbanceThe IMD has predicted dense fog in northern and western Rajasthan between January 1 and January 3 affecting visibility during morning hoursA cold wave is also expected in the Shekhawati region from January 2 to January 4During this period minimum temperatures may drop sharply to between 2 and 4 degrees Celsius the Meteorological Department saidJaisalmer received its first winter rain of the season on Wednesday IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-welcomes-the-new-year-with-rain-hailstorm-656483.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 11:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/poor-show-in-local-body-polls-rocks-cm-vijayans-boat-voices-grow-for-course-correction-656485.html Thiruvananthapuram Jan 1 For nearly a decade Pinarayi Vijayan has dominated Keralaâs political landscape with an authority that a few Chief Ministers in the stateâs history have wielded Within the CPIM he has emerged as the unchallenged helmsman and within the government the final arbiter That aura of invincibility however is beginning to fray and the most telling sign is not coming from the opposition but from within the Left Democratic Front LDF itselfThe first salvo was fired by the CPI which is the secondlargest ally in the ruling coalitionIts leadership convened a meeting to review the LDFâs disappointing performance in the recent local body elections which arrived at an unusually blunt conclusion the need for correction and that responsibility rests squarely with CM VijayanIn Keralaâs Left politics where allies traditionally choose euphemism over confrontation this was no minor departure It marked a clear shift from whispered discontent to open signallingMore significantly similar sentiments have echoed within the CPIM At its own threeday stocktaking meeting on the electoral reversal a section of the party conveyed in unambiguous terms that the time has come for a course correction and that Vijayan himself must lead itThe subtext is hard to miss the leadership style that once delivered stability and electoral success may now be part of the problemAge and health have inevitably entered the conversationVijayan is past 80 and has been grappling with health issues even as he continues to project his trademark tough demeanourWhile age alone has never been a disqualifier in Kerala politics the demands of what could be one of the most stressful election campaigns the state has seen raise legitimate questionsThe carefully crafted narrative of a third consecutive Vijayan government after the Assembly polls scheduled for AprilMay is beginning to look less assuredThis dilemma exposes a deeper structural problem for the CPIM which is regarding successionThe party has faced this conundrum before also In 2016 it was VS Achuthanandan then Leader of Opposition and a mass leader with unmatched popular appeal who fronted the campaign that led to a decisive LDF victory Yet soon after the triumph Achuthanandan was eased out making way for VijayanFive years later in 2021 Vijayan himself became the face of the campaign armed with the advantages of incumbency a strong administrative image forged during crises such as the Covid19 pandemic and his handling of controversies including the gold smuggling case involving Swapna SureshHe triumphed securing a rare second consecutive term for the LeftThe past five years however have been markedly different Governance under Vijayan has become increasingly centralised with the Chief Minister seen as the last word both in the party and governmentThis concentration of authority once praised for decisiveness has now bred stagnation and resentmentControversies from the lingering shadows of the gold smuggling and Sabarimalalinked cases to allegations of administrative opacityâhave chipped away at the moral high ground the Left traditionally claimsThe result is a sense that the Vijayan model has reached a culdesacFor perhaps the first time in his tenure the Chief Minister appears to be navigating genuinely rough waters with criticism coming not just from rivals but from comradesYet the CPIM leadership is not ready to concede groundParty state secretary MV Govindan has struck an openly defiant note projecting confidence that the LDF will secure a sure 60 of the 140 Assembly seats enough in his assessment to form a third consecutive Left governmentHe has pinned hopes on a systematic doortodoor campaign to recover what was lost in the local body polls which will enable them to cross the magical figure for governanceThat optimism however does little to answer the central question now animating Keralaâs political discourse who after PinarayiThe absence of a clear successor underscores how deeply the party has tied its fortunes to one individualIf Vijayanâs health or political capital falters further the CPIM may find itself scrambling not just for votes but for leadershipThe waning of the âPinarayi magic if that is indeed what is unfolding does not automatically spell defeat for the Left But it does signal the end of complacencyWhether the CPIM can reinvent itself decentralise authority and present a credible postVijayan vision may well determine not just the outcome of the next election but the future trajectory of the Left Front in Kerala its only bastion in the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/poor-show-in-local-body-polls-rocks-cm-vijayans-boat-voices-grow-for-course-correction-656485.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/chennai-to-house-free-womens-cancer-screening-centre-by-february-656489.html Chennai Jan 1 Chennai is set to get a dedicated public womens cancer screening centre at Thousand Lights by February The facility being established at a cost of Rs 123 crore will offer free screening services for breast cervical and ovarian cancers affecting women in Tamil Nadu the mostThe threestoreyed centre will be operated by the Greater Chennai Corporations Health Department and will function from 8 am to 5 pm on all days except SundaysIt will be equipped with a mammogram unit for breast cancer screening a laboratory for Pap smear tests to detect cervical cancer and an ultrasound facility for screening abdominal and ovarian cancersA dedicated consultation room will also be part of the facility While government hospitals already provide several diagnostic services free of cost advanced cancer screening tests such as mammograms and specialised scans often require patients to seek private careThe new facility aims to bridge this gap and ensure early diagnosis especially for women from economically weaker backgroundsAnnouncing the initiative Thousand Lights MLA Dr Ezhilan Naganathan said the centre was conceived in response to the growing burden of cancer in Tamil NaduI wanted to establish a free accessible cancer screening facility in the city particularly for women Early detection can significantly improve survival rates We also plan to create a detailed data registry of all women who undergo screening which will help in research and longterm cancer prevention strategies he saidDr J Amalorpavanathan member of the State Planning Commission said the facility was being set up at a crucial time as Tamil Nadu accounts for 64 per cent of Indias total cancer cases despite having only 56 per cent of the countrys populationHe noted that while cervical cancer continues to be one of the most common cancers among women in rural areas urban regions are witnessing a steady rise in breast cancer cases This trend he explained is often linked to lifestyle changes delayed marriages and late childbirth IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/chennai-to-house-free-womens-cancer-screening-centre-by-february-656489.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/new-year-celebrations-928-arrested-for-drunk-driving-in-cyberabad-656492.html Hyderabad Jan 1 A total of 928 people were caught driving under the influence of alcohol during New Year celebrations under the Cyberabad Police Commissionerate limits To prevent road accidents and other untoward incidents Cyberabad Police conducted an intensive special drive against drunk driving from the night of December 31 2025 till Thursday morningAs part of this drive 55 teams were deployed across Cyberabad during which 928 people were caught driving under the influence of alcohol and cases were booked against themAccording to police 695 of the drunk driving cases were booked against twowheeler riders 31 against drivers of threewheelers 199 against fourwheelers and three heavy vehiclesThe driving licences of the offenders will be seized and forwarded to the concerned RTAs for suspension under Section 19 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 said Cyberabad PoliceAmong those booked 419 people recorded alcohol levels above 100 mg100 ml of blood 35 people recorded above 300 mg100 ml and five people recorded extremely high levels exceeding 500 mg100 mlMost cases were reported from the traffic police station limits of Miyapur RC Puram Raidurgam Gachibowli Kukatpally Medchal Narsingi Rajendranagar and KPHBCyberabad Joint Commissioner of Police Traffic Dr Gajarao Bhupal along with all Law and Order DCPs and Traffic DCPs remained on the field throughout the night ensuring smooth traffic flow effective enforcement and safe celebrations across the Cyberabad CommissioneratePolice said the New Year celebrations across Cyberabad passed off smoothly peacefully and without any major incidents owing to meticulous planning continuous monitoring and coordinated fieldlevel enforcementThe arrangements were closely supervised at the highest level with Cyberabad Commissioner Dr M Ramesh directly monitoring the situation throughout the night from his office and issuing realtime instructions to officersWith extensive planning and sustained enforcement by Cyberabad Traffic Police no major road accidents were reported anywhere in Cyberabad during the New Year celebrationsTo facilitate safe and congestionfree movement of partygoers the Society for Cyberabad Security Council in coordination with Cyberabad Police and Cyberabad Traffic Police operated a free shuttle service from midnight on December 31 from major party hubs to nearby Metro stations and designated cab pickup points This initiative significantly eased congestion at celebration zones and ensured smooth clearance of traffic across key stretches by 2 amCyberabad Police said the special focus on drunk driving enforcement will continue throughout the year as part of the Zero Tolerance policy towards drunk drivingWhile extending New Year greetings to all citizens the police urged them to act responsibly and refrain from dangerous activities on roads in the interest of public safety IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/new-year-celebrations-928-arrested-for-drunk-driving-in-cyberabad-656492.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 13:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/youth-trinamool-congress-leader-killed-on-new-years-eve-in-north-bengals-raiganj-656493.html Kolkata Jan 1 A Trinamool Congress district youth vicepresident in Uttar Dinajpur district was allegedly murdered on New Years Eve said the police on Thursday His body was recovered from the Milanpara area near Mohanbati market in Raiganj The police are investigating whether the murder was politically motivated or if there was another reason behind it Nabyendu Ghosh had only recently become the district youth vicepresident of the Trinamool Congress in Uttar Dinajpur in north BengalHe was divorced and the father of one child He had recently opened a sweet shop in the area near Mohanbati marketOn Wednesday night during the New Years Eve celebrations a picnic was being held directly opposite his shop The 37yearold Trinamool leader was present there It is alleged that several people suddenly arrived at the scene on motorcycles Before anyone could understand what was happening the Trinamool leader was brutally beaten with wooden sticks He was also allegedly stabbed repeatedly with a knifeLocals said the Trinamool leader collapsed on the street bleeding profusely By then the assailants had fled the area He was rushed to Raiganj Medical College and Hospital where doctors declared him dead The hospital authorities informed his family It is still unclear who took him to the hospital as no companions of the Trinamool leader have been foundRaiganj Superintendent of Police Sonawane Kuldip Suresh told media persons Police have cordoned off the picnic spot the area behind the shop opposite it We have started an investigation Local residents are being questionedIt was learnt that the deceased Trinamool leader Nabyendu was formerly the general secretary of the student council at Raiganj College Trinamool Congress district president Kanaia Lal Agarwal said I have told the Superintendent of Police to arrest those involved in the murder within twentyfour hours and ensure appropriate punishmentHowever it is unclear who committed the crime It is not yet known whether the murder was due to political rivalry or a business dispute The police are also investigating whether there is any connection between the death and any personal relationship issues IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/youth-trinamool-congress-leader-killed-on-new-years-eve-in-north-bengals-raiganj-656493.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 13:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/assembly-polls-hm-shah-to-visit-tn-on-jan-4-as-political-activity-intensifies--656494.html Chennai Jan 1 IANS With just four months remaining for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections political activity across the State has intensified and Union Home Minister Amit Shahs visit on Sunday is set to mark a major turning point in the evolving electoral landscapenbspThe visit is being closely watched as a key step towards strengthening the BJPled National Democratic Alliance NDA in Tamil NadunbspHM Shah will arrive in Tiruchirappalli on January 4 and proceed to Pudukottai where he will participate in the concluding event of the statelevel campaign led by BJP state president Nainar NagenthranThe event will be held at Pallathivayal in Nathampannai village where a massive public meeting is being organised with elaborate arrangements including a large stage and pavilionnbspSenior leaders of the NDA including AIADMK general secretary and Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami Tamil Maanila Congress leader G K Vasan PMK leaders and other alliance partners are expected to attendnbspFollowing the public meeting HM Shah will stay overnight in TiruchirappalliOn January 5 he is scheduled to visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam and later attend the Pongal celebration at the Army Ground in Mannarpuram where around 1000 women are expected to participatenbspThe visit is seen as a crucial effort to consolidate the NDA in Tamil Nadu BJP leaders have been holding continuous consultations with AIADMK leadership on seatsharing and alliance coordinationnbspSources indicate that discussions are also underway to bring other political groups including those led by O Panneerselvam and AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran into the alliance foldMeanwhile the ruling DMK has intensified its own campaignnbspChief Minister MK Stalin has been touring districts inaugurating development projects distributing welfare assistance and energising party cadres as part of his outreach programmenbspThe DMK is projecting its governance record and welfare schemes as the cornerstone of its reelection bid On the other hand the AIADMK under Edappadi K Palaniswami has stepped up its statewide campaign accusing the DMK government of administrative failures and unfulfilled promisesnbspWith HM Shahs visit expected to firm up alliance dynamics and energise the BJPled front Tamil Nadus political arena is witnessing heightened activity setting the stage for a fiercely contested Assembly polls https://dailyworld.in/national/assembly-polls-hm-shah-to-visit-tn-on-jan-4-as-political-activity-intensifies--656494.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 15:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ai-an-opportunity-for-positive-change-president-murmu-656495.html New Delhi Jan 1 IANS Describing Artificial Intelligence AI as an opportunity for positive change President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday launchednbsp Skill the Nation challenge at a function held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural CentrenbspAddressing the gathering the President said that Artificial Intelligence is reshaping economies and societies worldwidenbspIt is transforming how we learn how we work how we access modern services and how we address humanitys greatest challenges For a young nation like India AI is not just a technology but a tremendous opportunity for positive change she saidThe President said that Indias approach has always been that technology should empower people promote inclusion and expand opportunities for allnbspShe said the use of AI should aim to bridge social economic and technological divides It is essential to ensure that its benefits reach people of all backgrounds and ages especially those from marginalised communitiesThe President was happy to note that students are preparing themselves for a future full of possibilities and opportunitiesnbspShe urged them to remember that technology their knowledge and skills should be used to serve society find solutions to challenges and empower othersnbspPresident Murmu appreciated the Members of Parliament who have completed AI learning modules and said that by learning about emerging technologies themselves they have set an example of leadership through learningnbspThe President said that AI is emerging as a growth driver for the Indian economyIn the coming decade AI will play a significant role in the countrys GDP employment and overall productivity Skills such as data science AI engineering and data analytics will play a crucial role in developing the countrys AI talent pool She stated that the government in collaboration with various institutions industry partners and academia is ensuring that India not only adopts technology but also shapes a responsible future through itShe urged all to work together with commitment to build a developed India and contribute to making India a knowledge superpower in line with the National Education Policy and to building a techdriven inclusive and prosperous IndianbspThis event organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is part of the continued commitment of the Government towards preparing Indias workforce for an AIdriven futurenbspShe also virtually inaugurated the IGNOU Regional Centre and Skill Centre at Rairangpur Odisha https://dailyworld.in/national/ai-an-opportunity-for-positive-change-president-murmu-656495.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-singh-visits-bangladesh-hc-offers-condolences-over-khaleda-zias-demise-656496.html New Delhi Jan 1 IANS Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday visited the High Commission of Bangladesh in New Delhi to express condolences over the death of Bangladesh National Party BNP chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda ZianbspnbspSigning the condolence book Singh conveyed deep sorrow and extended his thoughts to Khaleda Zias family and the people of BangladeshnbspWent to the High Commission of Bangladesh in New Delhi Signed the Condolence Book expressing our profound sorrow at the passing of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia Our thoughts are with her family and the people of Bangladesh the Defence Minister posted on XFollowing Singhs visit Bangladeshs High Commissioner to India Riaz Hamidullah took to X stating Honoured to welcome HE Rajnath Singh Hon Indian Defence Minister at Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi as he conveyed condolences of India and paid homage to former Bangladesh Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson late Khaleda Zia in DelhinbspEarlier on Wednesday External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar visited Dhaka to represent India at the funeral of Khaleda Zia the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh He conveyed the Indian governments condolences to the BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman on the passing of his mother and former Bangladesh PMIn a post on X the EAM said that upon arrival in Dhaka he met with Tarique Rahman and handed over to him a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra ModinbspConveyed deepest condolences on behalf of the government and people of India Expressed confidence that Begum Khaleda Zias vision and values will guide the development of our partnership he addednbspEAM Jaishankar acknowledged Zias contribution to democracy and expressed optimism about strengthening IndiaBangladesh ties in the wake of a democratic transition following the upcoming electionsSharing photos of EAMs meeting with Tarique Rahman Hamidullah posted on X stating HE Dr S Jaishankar Hon External Affairs Minister in Dhaka conveys condolences of the people and Govt of India as Bangladesh mourns passing of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia recognised her contribution to democracy and expressed optimism to strengthen India Bangladesh ties following democratic transition in Bangladesh thru the upcoming election Feb 2026nbspKhaleda Zia a threetime Prime Minister and longtime chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party died early Tuesday morning after a prolonged illness She was 80nbspShe was laid to rest with full State honours on Wednesday afternoon beside her husband countrys former President Ziaur Rahman at ShereBangla Nagar in Dhaka according to local media reports https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-singh-visits-bangladesh-hc-offers-condolences-over-khaleda-zias-demise-656496.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/haryana-cabinet-approves-amendments-to-deen-dayal-lado-lakshmi-yojana-for-women-empowerment-656498.html Chandigarh Jan 1 IANS The Haryana Cabinet presided over by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini here on Thursday approved significant amendments to the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana of 2025 with the objective of strengthening womens financial empowerment and promoting longterm savingsnbspUnder the proposed amendments the monthly benefit under the scheme will remain Rs 2100 per eligible woman However from the second month onwards the assistance will be released in two parts Rs 1100 will be credited directly to the beneficiarys savings bank account while Rs 1000 will be deposited in a governmentoperated recurring deposit RD or fixed deposit FD accountThe accumulated amount along with interest will be paid to the beneficiary on maturity The tenure of the RD and FD will be decided by the government and will not exceed five yearsnbspThe amendments also propose integration of social developmentlinked eligibility criteria In addition to incomebased eligibility mothers whose children studying in government schools have demonstrated academic excellence by securing more than 80 per cent marks in Class 10 or 12 Board examinations or have achieved gradelevel competency under the NIPUN Bharat Mission in Classes 1 to 4 will be considered eligibleSimilarly mothers who have successfully rehabilitated their children from Severe Acute Malnutrition SAM or Moderate Acute Malnutrition MAM as verified by the Women and Child Development Department will also be covered under the schemenbspExisting criteria related to age and domicile will continue unchanged The income limit for this additional criterion is extended up to Rs 18 lakh as per FIDRAligning objectives of Viksit Bharat to socio economic development and family size mothers who have more than three children will not be eligible under this categorynbspTo enhance transparency and community participation the proposed amendments include validation of beneficiaries through local selfgovernance institutionsnbspAfter initial verification the list of beneficiaries will be shared with concerned Gram Sabhas in rural areas and area sabhas or ward committees in urban areas for communitylevel validationIn cases where any beneficiary is found ineligible or nongenuine during validation the financial assistance will be discontinuednbspNotably the Deen Dayal Lado Lakshmi Yojana was launched on September 25 2025 to enhance the social security of women in the state Within two months of its launch around 10 lakh women registered under the scheme reflecting its wide acceptanceThe proposed amendments aim to further evolve the scheme from a cash assistance programme into a holistic outcomeoriented initiative aligned with the vision of Viksit BharatnbspThe Cabinet also approved the proposal to provide a government job on compassionate grounds to Santosh Kumari wife of late Sandeep Kumar Lather Assistant Sub Inspector ASI of police as a special and as onetime measure The Cabinet approved appointment to Kumari on the post of PGT Mathematics GroupB in the Campus School Maharshi Dayanand University Rohtak https://dailyworld.in/national/haryana-cabinet-approves-amendments-to-deen-dayal-lado-lakshmi-yojana-for-women-empowerment-656498.html Thu, 01 Jan 2026 18:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/had-insightful-interaction-with-economists-on-aatmanirbharta-viksit-bharat-pm-modi-656389.html New Delhi Dec 31 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said he had an insightful interaction with economists and sectoral experts ahead of the Union Budget 202627 To sustain longterm growth PM Modi called for missionmode reforms across diverse sectors during the meeting held at NITI Aayog on TuesdayHad an insightful interaction with economists and experts yesterday They shared valuable perspectives relating to the theme of Aatmanirbharta and Structural Transformation Agenda for Viksit Bharat PM Modi posted on the social media platform XDuring the meeting the Prime Minister said the vision of a developed India by 2047 has transcended government policy to become a genuine mass aspirationThis shift is evident in the evolving patterns of education consumption and global mobility necessitating enhanced institutional capacity and proactive infrastructure planning to meet the needs of an increasingly aspirational society PM Modi told economistsHe further emphasised the need for missionmode reforms to build global capabilities and achieve global integrationAccording to an official statement the Prime Minister stressed that Indias policymaking and budgeting must remain anchored with the vision for 2047PM Modi also emphasised the need to ensure that the nation remains a vital hub for the global workforce and international marketsEconomists and experts shared strategic insights on enhancing productivity and competitiveness across the manufacturing and services sectorsThe discussions focused on accelerating structural transformation through increased household savings robust infrastructure development and the adoption of cuttingedge technologyThey also explored the role of Artificial Intelligence AI as an enabler of crosssectoral productivity and also discussed the continued scaling of Indias Digital Public Infrastructure DPIAccording to the official statement the participants noted that the unprecedented flurry of crosssectoral reforms in 2025 and their further consolidation in the coming year will ensure that India continues to chart its path as one of the fastestgrowing global economies by strengthening its foundations and unlocking newer opportunities IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/had-insightful-interaction-with-economists-on-aatmanirbharta-viksit-bharat-pm-modi-656389.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 10:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cold-conditions-prevail-in-rajasthan-light-rain-forecast-for-today-656391.html Jaipur Dec 31 The India Meteorological Department IMD has predicted light rain or drizzle in some areas of Bikaner Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions of Rajasthan on Wednesday A weather alert has been issued for several parts of the state due to the influence of an active Western DisturbanceThe department has also forecast light rainfall in some areas of the Bikaner Jaipur and Bharatpur divisions on ThursdayWeather conditions are expected to turn dry again across the state from January 2 onwardsDense fog is likely to affect parts of northern and western Rajasthan between January 1 and January 3 affecting visibility during morning hoursA cold wave is also expected in the Shekhawati region from January 2 to January 4 During this period minimum temperatures may drop sharply to between 2 and 4 degrees Celsius the Meteorological Department saidMeanwhile Jaisalmer received its first winter rain of the season on Wednesday morning Also light cloud cover prevailed in Jaipur Alwar Dausa and adjoining areas since early morningFog was also reported from Sikar Jaipur Alwar Dausa and Bharatpur on Wednesday morning leading to reduced visibility and causing inconvenience to commuters in several placesLight fog was observed in a few districts of eastern and northern Rajasthan during the last 24 hours However a slight rise in temperatures was recorded as cold winds weakened In Fatehpur Sikar weather conditions changed due to continuous cloud cover The minimum temperature on Wednesday was recorded at 64 degrees Celsius around 3 degrees higher than Tuesdays 34 degrees CelsiusAlthough most cities across Rajasthan witnessed sunshine on Tuesday cold conditions persisted and maximum temperatures remained below 30 degrees Celsius Chittorgarh recorded the highest maximum temperature of the day at 29 degrees Celsius followed by Barmer at 282 degrees Jaisalmer at 276 degrees and Jaipur at 24 degrees Celsius IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cold-conditions-prevail-in-rajasthan-light-rain-forecast-for-today-656391.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 10:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/shifting-sands-cosmic-contests-dynamic-destinies-a-made-in-india-global-fantasy-656398.html New Delhi Dec 31 An ancient desert city mysterious ruins the constant cosmic conflict between good and evil a powerful but lost talisman that could affect its outcome a young heroine yet to come to terms with her hidden abilities but thrust into the maelstrom and the like all these portend to be sparkling ingredients for an engrossing urban fantasy And fledgling author Sunali Singh Ranaa doesnt disappoint with her first work which promises to be the first of a riveting swordandsorcery series with a unique Indian infusion but also a twist as we shall seeIn Whispers in the Cursed Desert Inked in Blood the first of The Enchanted Dunes Saga Readomaniapp244Rs 399 Rana who happens to be an energy expert leading sustainable energy practices at industry chamber CII spins the tale of Layla a resident of the ancient desert city of Zephyria and beginning a graduate course in archaeology at a university said to be in EgyptWhile both her home city and her institution and the people are more than what they appear to be she is yet to achieve closure over the disappearance of her father some years back and the strange things that suddenly begin to happen to her And the simplest ostensibly of these is a budding romance but this also is fraught with complications for our festy heroineRevealing any more of the storyline may be a spoiler for interested readers beginning right from the ominous prelude the cliffhanger ending and the enigmatic epilogue so it will be better to focus on some overarching trends about Ranaas sagaUrban fantasy has always been a fertile realm of literature and well before the advent of the Harry Potter or the Percy Jackson and its numerous spinoffs series but Ranaa whose journey combines her professional expertise with a deeply intuitive approach to living creates her own special brandComparisons with the boy wizards tales are bound to be drawn given the underlying theme of magic parentlinked trauma an institution where magic is not looked at askance and even a rather singular teacher whose name approach chocolate for the disturbed and favoured abode brings to mind a popular Defence Against Dark Arts teacher of HogwartsHowever Ranaas tale is more multifacetedWhile there are times when her work seems to be verging towards becoming a fantasy sink with what seems to be a surfeit of magical plot elements it must be appreciated that the first instalment of a series is not where judgment can be made as there is a long road ahead for the resolution of the multifarious constituentsBut what really makes Ranaas work stand out is the universality she manages to bring about with this trendUrban fantasy or sword or sorcery is not alien to the Indian literary tradition with too many examples to list here But one issue that is seen often in contemporary works say Anuja Chandramoulis gritty yet compelling retellings is that inspiration from the Indic mythic tradition imposes its own limitations on character and plot Ranaa plays safer here with her policy like Samit Basu with his GameWorld Trilogy being to create an entirely new world though including traits and tropes from the prevailing mythosAnd hence Ranaas Zephyria and Antara seem mostly familiar though there is an element of subtle mystery that saves them from being compared to realworld locations even the mystical Arabia of the Thousand and One Nights and the characters draw on a larger pantheon than the subcontinent or even Arabia for that matterThe result is not difficult to discern the ambience is well created the characters are well drawn the situations seem well crafted and though there may be a false note or two in the narrative the effect is not too jarringIn all Ranaa offers a gripping tale that will not only beguile its readers but leave them waiting for the later instalmentsVikas Datta can be contacted at vikasdiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/shifting-sands-cosmic-contests-dynamic-destinies-a-made-in-india-global-fantasy-656398.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modis-2025-in-frames-from-op-sindoor-to-ram-mandir-dhwajarohan-656399.html New Delhi Dec 31 Prime Minister Narendra Modis journey through 2025 unfolded as a sweeping narrative of defining moments blending national security governance diplomacy spirituality and deeply human connections From Operation Sindoor to the Dhwajarohan Utsav at Ayodhyas Ram Mandir the year emerged as a vivid mosaic of devotion decisive leadership development milestones and peoplecentric engagementThe Prime Ministers calendar was marked by heartfelt interactions with citizens visits to sacred temples strategic outreach to border regions inauguration and inspection of major infrastructure projects and participation in programmes aimed at empowering people at the grassrootsMany of these moments were captured in photographs shared on narendramodiin that resonated widely and defined the visual memory of the yearOne of the most politically significant developments of 2025 was the landslide victory of the Bharatiya Janata Partyled National Democratic Alliance in the Bihar Assembly electionsThe NDA secured 202 of the 243 seats comprehensively defeating the Rashtriya Janata Dalled Mahagathbandhan which managed to win just 35 seats Incumbent Chief Minister Nitish Kumar took oath for a recordPhotographs of Prime Minister Modi with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar including the nowfamous gamcha moment at the BJP headquarters following the sweeping victory dominated headlines and social media discussionsOn the national security front Operation Sindoor stood out as a defining chapter of the year Following the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack India launched decisive military action against highvalue terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistanoccupied KashmirDuring this critical phase Prime Minister Modi chaired and attended a series of highlevel meetings with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh National Security Advisor Ajit Doval Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan the Chiefs of the Armed Forces and other senior officials He gave a free hand to the Armed Forces to act against terror targetsAfter the successful culmination of Operation Sindoor the Prime Minister shared warm moments with personnel at the Adampur Air Force Base in Punjab expressing his gratitude for their courage and professionalismHe also witnessed a spectacular air power demonstration aboard INS Vikrant in Goa during Diwali a moment that symbolised Indias growing maritime and aerial strengthInfrastructure and strategic connectivity featured prominently in PM Modis 2025 journey One of the most striking images was of the Prime Minister waving the national flag during his visit to the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and KashmirLocated in Reasi district the Chenab Bridge is the worlds highest railway arch bridge standing 359 metres tall about 35 metres higher than the Eiffel TowerSituated close to the border with Pakistan the bridge provides allweather rail connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India marking a transformative milestone for the regionFaith and cultural heritage formed another powerful thread of the year Prime Minister Modi along with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath hoisted the sacred Dharma Dhwaja atop the spire of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in AyodhyaThe historic Dhwajarohan Utsav filled devotees across the country with emotion devotion and a sense of fulfilment Beyond Ayodhya the Prime Minister visited several revered religious sitesHe offered prayers at the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tamil Nadu visited the Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math in GoaThe PM also sought blessings from the Chief of the Anuradhapura Atamasthana Pallegama Hemarathana Thera in Sri LankaHe took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj meditated and performed darshan and puja at the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Varla Devasthanam in Srisailam Andhra Pradesh and visited the Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi KarnatakaOn the global stage several photographs of PM Modi with world leaders generated intense international attentionAmong the most talkedabout images were those featuring the Prime Minister alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping The three leaders were seen sharing warm moments a visual that stirred significant buzz online amid tariff threats from Washington and shifting global economic dynamicsAnother widely discussed moment came during PM Modis visit to Washington in February where he met US President Donald Trump The camaraderie between the two leaders was captured vividly when President Trump gifted a book to the Prime Minister at the White House inscribed with the words Mr Prime Minister You are GreatBeyond protocol striking gestures of personal warmth also stood out including when Jordans Crown Prince AlHussein bin Abdullah II personally drove PM Modi to the Jordan Museum in Amman and when Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali drove him to see him offPM Modis interactions with the family of US Vice President JD Vance also attracted attention particularly his lighthearted banter with Vances children at his residence at 7 Lok Kalyan MargHis engagements with other global leaders included a ceremonial welcome by Mauritian Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam in Port Louis Saudi Air Force jets escorting his aircraft during his visit to Saudi Arabia meetings with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Johannesburg and interactions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on the sidelines of the 51st G7 Summit at Kananaskis CanadaThe Prime Minister also received a standing ovation in the Ethiopian Parliament and a respectful welcome upon his arrival in Johannesburg He was also awarded the highest honours of several nations in 2025Throughout the year PM Modis interactions with children and students frequently went viral reflecting a softer more personal dimension of his leadershipFrom moments when young girls tied rakhi on his wrist during Raksha Bandhan to his meetings with JD Vances children these images resonated widelyDuring Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 he interacted with students at Sunder Nursery in New Delhi while brief meetings with students in Chhattisgarh also drew attentionOne particularly adorable moment showed a young child folding her hands in a Namaste as she met the Prime Minister In another instance PM Modi shared a fun exchange with a child and treated him at his officeHis fondness for animals was also evident during the year A photograph of the Prime Minister with a calf at his official residence left social media users in awe He also visited Gir National Park in Gujarat on World Wildlife Day underlining his commitment to wildlife conservationSporting achievements and social inclusion featured in PM Modis interactions as well He met members of the Indian Womens Cricket Team following their World Cup triumph and also interacted with players from the Indian Womens Blind Cricket Team celebrating their achievements and resilienceAt the grassroots level the Prime Minister continued to engage directly with beneficiaries of government programmes In 2025 he interacted with residents of Swabhiman Apartments in Delhi farmers during a Krishi programme in the national capital visitors at the Tribal Freedom Fighters Museum in Nava Raipur Chhattisgarh and a divyangjan during an event in Gaya BiharHe also met women from Bhuj who had rebuilt the local airbase within 72 hours during the 1971 war despite Pakistani attacks acknowledging their courage and contributionOne of the most emotionally charged moments of the year was an event marked by gratitude and humility when PM Modi gifted a pair of shoes to Rampal Kashyap in Haryana Kashyap had pledged 14 years ago not to wear footwear until Modi became the Prime MinisterThe Prime Minister also met a family member of Bhagwan Birsa Munda in Dediapada Gujarat paying tribute to the legacy of the tribal iconMass outreach through roadshows continued to be a key feature of PM Modis public engagement He held several roadshows during the year including a massive one in Patna ahead of the Bihar Assembly electionsAnother memorable moment occurred during a roadshow in Ahmedabad when a woman holding an aarti thali broke down in tears of joy upon seeing the Prime Minister a scene that quickly went viralThe year also saw the Prime Minister participate in events marking 100 years of the RSS and its selfless service to the nationOn the occasion he released a specially designed commemorative postage stamp and coin in New DelhiDuring his visit to Nagpur he paid floral tributes to RSS founder Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar at Smruti MandirTowards the end of the year PM Modi attended the Christmas morning service at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption in Delhi The gathering prayed for his healthy life bringing his eventful 2025 journey to a reflective and inclusive close reinforcing images of leadership that spanned power faith diplomacy and deep connection with people IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modis-2025-in-frames-from-op-sindoor-to-ram-mandir-dhwajarohan-656399.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kashmir-hill-stations-receive-first-snowfall-tourists-flock-to-celebrate-new-year-656402.html Srinagar Dec 31 All higher reaches of Kashmir received snowfall in the last 12 hours as the minimum temperature rose above the freezing point on Wednesday everywhere except Gulmarg ski resort Tourists presently in the Valley to celebrate New Years Eve were thrilled to witness snowfall in Gulmarg Sonamarg and Pahalgam tourist resorts Snowfall on New Years Eve gave the perfect setting to this yearâs celebrations as a pristine blanket of white covered the ground in Gulmarg and other places of tourist interestKashmir at this time was thronged by tourists from different parts of the country and many of them said they were seeing the snowfall first time in their livesAll hotels in Srinagar city and Gulmarg are completely sold out as hotels in Sonamarg and Pahalgam are also witnessing some tourist footfall this winterThe minimum temperature rose above the freezing point throughout the Valley due to the nightlong cloud cover except in Gulmarg where the minimum temperature was minus 3 degrees CelsiusSrinagar had 23 degrees Celsius and Pahalgam 18 degrees as the minimum temperatureJammu city had 104 degrees Celsius Katra town 10 Batote 88 Banihal 59 and Bhaderwah 4 degrees as the nightâs lowest temperatureWhile hills received snowfall during the last 12 hours residents of central Kashmir Srinagar and other areas in the Valleyâs plains have so far been disappointed by the absence of this seasonâs first snowfallAsked whether the present snowfall in the mountains would suffice to replenish the perennial water reservoirs in the mountains an earth scientist said curtly âNo once we have two feet of snow accumulation on the ground in the plains it is possible to say that the higher reaches would have received four feet or moreâBut if the snowfall in Gulmarg and Sonamarg is less than a few inches how can we expect that this would replenish our water reservoirs to sustain us in the summer monthsâ he saidThe 40daylong period of harsh winter cold called the âChillai Kalanâ started on December 21 and there has been no appreciable rainsnow so far in Jammu and Kashmir If the period of Chillai Kalan passes without a heavy snowfall then horticulture agriculture and the drinking water needs of the people could become a big problem in the summer months IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kashmir-hill-stations-receive-first-snowfall-tourists-flock-to-celebrate-new-year-656402.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/man-charred-to-death-as-two-vehicles-collide-in-andhra-pradeshs-prakasam-656403.html Amaravati Dec 31 A man was charred to death in a collision between two vehicles in Andhra Pradeshâs Prakasam district on Wednesday Police said a Bolero vehicle caught fire after colliding with an unidentified vehicle on the NandyalAmaravati highway The driver was trapped in the fire and was charred to death Another person travelling in the same vehicle was injuredThe accident occurred near Rangareddypalle village in Racharla mandal around 545 amAccording to police the Bolero vehicle laden with cashew was heading to Anantapur from Tuni It collided with an unidentified vehicle coming from the opposite direction The Bolero vehicle caught fire as a result of the collisionAlerted by the passersby fire services personnel rushed to the spot with a fire engine and doused the fireThe deceased was identified as Swamy 50 Another person Kandipalli Jayarami Reddy was injured He was shifted to the government hospital at GiddalurPolice said they have registered a case and are investigating An official said they were trying to trace the vehicle which collided with the BoleroMeanwhile a few passengers of a private travel bus were injured in another accident in neighbouring TelanganaPolice said the bus collided with a truck on the HyderabadVijayawada highway near Narketpally in Nalgonda district The bus was heading to Hyderabad The injured have been admitted to a private hospital near NarketpallyThe accident led to a huge traffic jam Police rushed to the spot and cleared the roadIn another accident in Hyderabad a home guard was injured in a hitandrun case The accident occurred at a traffic signal in the information technology hub of MadhapurAccording to police a speeding car hit the home guard who was on duty at the traffic signal The car sped away after hitting home guard Nayeem 45 The injured home guard was admitted to the hospital Police registered a case and launched an investigation to identify the car and its owner IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/man-charred-to-death-as-two-vehicles-collide-in-andhra-pradeshs-prakasam-656403.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/three-convicted-prisoners-escape-from-jharkhand-jail-breach-five-layer-security-656405.html Hazaribagh Jharkhand Dec 31 Three convicted prisoners escaped from the Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan Central Jail JP Jail in Hazaribagh Jharkhand officials said on Wednesday The escape triggered a massive manhunt and raised fresh questions over the functioning of one of Jharkhandâs most secure prisonsJail Superintendent Chandrashekhar Suman confirmed the escape saying that preliminary information suggests all three prisoners are residents of Dhanbad districtHe added that detailed profiles of the escaped convicts are being compiled and shared with law enforcement agenciesAccording to initial reports the incident came to light when the prisoners were brought out of their barracks for a routine headcountDuring the process jail officials discovered that three inmates were missing An internal search was immediately launched within the jail premises Authorities initially believed the prisoners might be hiding somewhere inside the complexHowever when the inmates could not be traced even after an extensive search alarm bells were raised The district police were promptly informed following which the administration went on high alertThe entire jail perimeter and surrounding areas have been cordoned off and a search operation has been launched at suspected hideouts to track down the fugitivesPolice units in neighbouring districts have also been alerted to keep a close watch on possible movement Checkpoints have been strengthened to prevent the prisoners from fleeing the regionThe escape has shocked officials particularly because JP Jail is equipped with a fivelayer security system roundtheclock CCTV surveillance and armed security personnel deployed at all entry and exit pointsThe highsecurity prison houses notorious criminals Maoists and several highprofile undertrial prisonersThe jailâs security infrastructure had been further strengthened in recent monthsThe Jail Inspector General had recently suspended 12 security personnel over alleged lapses in security Despite these measures the latest incident has once again cast a shadow over the effectiveness of the prisonâs security arrangements IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/three-convicted-prisoners-escape-from-jharkhand-jail-breach-five-layer-security-656405.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/thanks-to-pm-modi-we-witnessed-this-occasion-says-up-dy-cm-on-ram-temples-2nd-anniversary-656406.html New Delhi Dec 31 Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Wednesday extended his heartfelt greetings to the nation on the second anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya Highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of the temple for devotees across India Pathak said âOn the completion of two years of the grand Ram Lalla temple I extend my heartfelt greetings to all citizens of the country Thanks to PM Modi we have been able to witness this occasion of Sanatan culture Many thanks to PM Modi for thisâThe Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust commemorated the historic event originally performed on Paush Shukla Paksha Dwadashi in 2024 with elaborate ceremonies led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi The Pran Pratishtha marked the consecration of the Ram Lalla idol and the culmination of centuries of devotion and aspiration among the Hindu communityBJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla also spoke on the occasion saying âToday is a very auspicious day a very holy day that Ram Mandir Prana Pratishtha is two years old and we saw how the work of the Hindu society which was waiting for this for 500 years was completed and a great Ram Mandir was built Ram Lalla got his great Mandir and flag hosting was done on it and the penance of so many years was completedââJDU National Spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad added âIndia is the spiritual guide for the entire world Lord Shri Ram is not only worshipped by millions of Hindus but is also revered with respect and devotion by people of all religions During the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi a historic milestone was achieved with the establishment of Lord Shri Ramâs temple in Ayodhya Now as we celebrate the second anniversary it is a momentous occasion eagerly awaited by devotees and followers of HinduismââThousands of pilgrims from across India thronged Ayodhya to offer prayers filling the town and temple premises with chants of âJai Shri Ramâ and devotion From the temple entrance to the streets of âRam Nagariâ the celebrations reflected the collective faith and spiritual fervour of devotees The anniversary underscored the templeâs significance not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Indiaâs rich cultural and spiritual heritage inspiring generations of followersThe second anniversary of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha was marked by reverence devotion and gratitude celebrating the historic milestone that fulfilled a centuriesold aspiration of Hindu devotees across the country IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/thanks-to-pm-modi-we-witnessed-this-occasion-says-up-dy-cm-on-ram-temples-2nd-anniversary-656406.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/proxy-candidate-appearing-for-kolkata-polices-si-recruitment-exam-arrested-656410.html Kolkata Dec 31 A proxy candidate appearing in the recruitment exam for Kolkata Police SubInspector was caught redhanded in the city police said on Wednesday According to police Lakhai Ghosh who was not the aspirant appeared for the examThe fraud came to light when the signature on the admit card and that of Ghosh mismatchedThe actual aspirant was Abdul Khaleque the police saidGhosh who hails from Murshidabad was sitting for the inspectors recruitment exam on Khaleques behalfGhosh had managed to sit for the exam without attracting attention However the examiner noticed that his face did not match the photograph on the admit card raising suspicion Soon other documents were verifiedThats when the discrepancy was discovered It was found that Ghoshs signature did not match the signature on the documentPolice officers immediately detained Ghosh and began questioning himReports suggest that both hailed from Murshidabad and met thereThe person who has appeared on behalf of the actual candidate has been arrested He is being questioned said the policePolice sources said the officers are trying to find the actual candidate who was supposed to appear in the examination A search has started to catch him and bring him facetoface with the proxy candidatePolice are trying to find out whether any financial arrangement was made between the two and if a racket was behind the conspiracyIt is worth mentioning that earlier allegations of malpractice had surfaced surrounding the written examination for the Kolkata Police constable recruitmentSeveral individuals were arrested in connection with that incident Moreover Gaighata Police arrested 12 people on charges of supplying fraudulent materials to the examination centresBluetooth devices electronic gadgets and other incriminating items were recovered from those arrestedFurthermore during the investigation the authorities uncovered a largescale racket of proxy candidates IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/proxy-candidate-appearing-for-kolkata-polices-si-recruitment-exam-arrested-656410.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/two-arrested-in-faridabad-gang-rape-case-656417.html Faridabad Dec 31 Two accused have been arrested on the charges of gangraping a woman in a moving van for two hours in Haryanas Faridabad after offering her a lift police said on Wednesday According to the officials the incident occurred on the intervening night of Monday and TuesdayA woman was trying to find a ride home when a van stopped and two men lured her into the vehicle They promised her that they would get her home but instead took a turn towards the Gurgaon RoadWhen the woman objected she was beaten The accused raped her for two hours and later threw her out of the moving car near SGM Nagar and fled the scene The woman was admitted to a private hospital in an injured conditionAn FIR has been registered based on the complaint of the victims family and the police are checking CCTV camera footagePolice spokesperson Yashpal Singh said that the victims sister stated in her complaint that she received a call from her sister at 830 pm who told her that she had an argument with her mother at home and was going to her friends houseThe victim said she would return from her friends house in three hoursAccording to the victims sister around 1200 am the victim was waiting for a ride to go home but failed to get it Soon after the accused offered a lift to the victim which she acceptedIt is alleged that after giving her a lift the two men drove the van towards Gurugram Road After passing the Hanuman Temple on the FaridabadGurugram road one of the accused continued driving the car while the other raped the woman The accused drove around on the FaridabadGurugram road for two hours according to the officialsAt 300 am the accused threw the victim out of the moving van and fled The woman sustained injuries to her face and headDoctors had to put stitches on her face The family members of the victim were informed after which they reached the Civil Hospital in Faridabad where the victim was initially admittedConsidering her condition the doctors have referred her to AIIMS Delhi however currently she is being treated at a private hospital in FaridabadThe police have registered a case in this matter and are investigatingBased on CCTV footage the police have arrested both the accusedBoth suspects reportedly hailing from Madhya Pradesh were residing in FaridabadFurther details are awaited IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/two-arrested-in-faridabad-gang-rape-case-656417.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 13:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/celebrate-new-year-responsibly-says-ktaka-home-minister-656421.html Bengaluru Dec 31 Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Wednesday appealed to the public to celebrate the New Year responsibly and also stated that security has been enhanced Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru Parameshwara said âCelebrate the New Year with responsibility âCelebrate responsiblyâ is the message we want to give today and the Bengaluru Police have taken steps accordingly We will ensure everyoneâs safety and see that the New Year is celebrated peacefullyââWe have taken several measures and steps and informed the public as well We have appealed and requested people to celebrate but peacefully That is our appeal to the people of Bengaluruâ he saidParameshwara said the police have identified 150 locations across Bengaluru for checks âCelebrations will be allowed up to a certain limit Once it crosses that limit it becomes difficult People who drive will lose reflexes and will not be able to drive properly which can result in accidents Unnecessarily they may lose their lives and also pose a threat to othersâ he saidâIf such activities are controlled for a few days we will be saving lives In this backdrop these exercises are necessary When there is overcrowding it has to be viewed from multiple angles including the threat of terrorism With all this in mind the Bengaluru Police are prepared to take actionâ he saidHe said police personnel have been strictly instructed to wear bodyworn cameras âEverything will be recorded and directly connected to the command centre If extra force is required it will be deployed All arrangements have been made systematically and scientificallyâ he saidParameshwara said bars have been given specific timings âThey have been instructed to close by 1 am If they do not comply cases will be registered against themâ he saidâWe have imposed restrictions in certain areas where people celebrate openly on the streets In Bengaluru many people come from outside the city to celebrate the New Year and locals often become a minority Naturally people drink celebrate and greet each other At midnight when crowds gather to exchange wishes there can be pushing and jostling which may lead to other incidents Keeping this in mind the police have taken precautionary measuresâ he saidSpeaking on governance Parameshwara said âBy 2026 Karnataka should become a model state There may be some aberrations but we must deliver good governance We have made several promises and all of them must be fulfilled We have performed well in the last twoandahalf years and the next twoandahalf years should reflect even better governanceâCommenting on a BJP delegation visiting the demolition site at Kogilu Layout in Bengaluru amid the demolition row he said âLet them go and see Instead of politicising the issue they should give suggestions to the government We have taken steps in the interest of poor people If they want to make it political we are ready Whenever poor people are given houses or benefits the opposition raises such issuesââThey do not like it when poor people who are sufferers are helped Yes the land was occupied unauthorisedly Now they have been evicted and on humanitarian grounds the government is rehabilitating them What is wrong with that Sometimes they claim outsiders or Pakistanis have come I do not think any responsible person would make such commentsâ he saidAnswering another question Parameshwara said an investigation by the National Investigation Agency NIA was not required âOur state is capable of handling this matter Both are opposition leaders and they have a certain responsibility Making such comments without proper information or documentation is not responsibleâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/celebrate-new-year-responsibly-says-ktaka-home-minister-656421.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 13:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sit-to-take-statement-from-udf-convener-adoor-prakash-in-sabarimala-gold-theft-case-656423.html Thiruvananthapuram Dec 31 The Special Investigation Team SIT probing the Sabarimala gold theft case has stepped up its probe and will now take a statement from UDF convener and Congress MP Adoor Prakash Prakash is being summoned to clarify his alleged association with the prime accused in the case Unnikrishnan PottiThe investigators are seeking greater clarity on the nature of their relationship including details of a Delhi trip undertaken by Prakash along with PottiThe SIT is in the process of collecting and verifying information related to this visit and other linked interactionsWhen the media approached the Congress MP to find the date he would appear before the SIT an irritated Prakash said I do not know of any such thing maybe you media would have got the notice I have not got anything He then got into his car and drove awayPictures of Potti along with Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi were shared on social media in a bid to counter the narrative of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan being seen alongside PottiThis fresh development comes on the day when Potti and two other accused were handed over to the probe team for a dayâs questioning on WednesdayThe investigation team plans to crosscheck Pottiâs testimony with the statement recorded by senior CPI M legislator and former Devaswom Minister Kadakampally SurendranThe SIT has already recorded Surendranâs testimony and is now seeking corroboration from Potti on the points raised thereinThe questioning of both the former minister and a senior Congress leader comes amid allegations that they maintained close ties with the prime accusedInvestigators said the focus of the probe is on uncovering the larger conspiracy behind the theft of gold plates linked to SabarimalaAs part of this effort the SIT is examining whether individuals with highlevel political or institutional connections played any role in facilitating or shielding those involved in the crimeThe investigation team has given enough hints that further questioning and summons could follow as the probe progresses depending on the evidence and statements recorded in the coming daysSince the probe began so far 10 people including three top CPIM leaders are now in jail IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sit-to-take-statement-from-udf-convener-adoor-prakash-in-sabarimala-gold-theft-case-656423.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kolkata-police-tighten-security-for-new-year-celebrations-656426.html Kolkata Dec 31 A day after recovering arms and ammunition from two locations in the city Kolkata Police have stepped up security and surveillance ahead of New Yearâs celebrations A Kolkata Police official said on Wednesday that officers will remain extra vigilant throughout the day as well as for the midnight celebrations The Standard Operating Procedure SOP which was issued ahead of Christmas celebrations will remain in place till SundayAccording to police this has been done to ensure the festivities conclude without any untoward incident Special focus will be laid on checking drunk and rash driving especially by motorbikesApproximately 2000 police personnel will be deployed on the streets of Kolkata during the New Year celebrations Senior officers including Deputy Commissioner Assistant Commissioner and Inspector rank officials will be stationed at various locationsPark Street in central Kolkata is beautifully decorated with lights during the New Year celebrations It draws a huge crowd every year The city police are taking precautions to prevent any disorder during the celebrations this year tooIn addition to plainclothes police officers a special team of women police officers called Winners will be on duty there Four to five watchtowers have been installed in the Park Street area Quick Response Teams QRT and Heavy Radio Flying Squads HRFS will also be present at Park StreetSecurity will also be reinforced at the Zoological Garden in Alipore Victoria Memorial Indian Museum Maidan Prinsep Ghat and Millennium Park Surveillance will be monitored from Lalbazar and Naka checks will be conducted at various places to prevent drunk driving Surveillance will also be maintained in the metro servicesOn Tuesday the Kolkata Polices Special Task Force STF recovered multiple firearms and arrested two persons in this connection According to the police acting on a tipoff STF officers detained two young men from Strand Road in Central Kolkata The recovered firearms included a singleshot pistol a 7mm pistol and improvised firearmsAdditionally 20 to 22 rounds of ammunition were recovered Meanwhile another person was arrested in connection with a similar incident in the Alipore area in south Kolkata Around 11 firearms were recovered from him IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kolkata-police-tighten-security-for-new-year-celebrations-656426.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/swiggy-zomato-hike-delivery-incentives-amid-nationwide-gig-workers-strike-call-656433.html New Delhi Dec 31 IANS Food delivery platforms Swiggy and Zomato have rolled out higher incentives for its delivery workers during peak hours and yearend days amid a nationwide strike call by gig and platform workersnbspThe incentive push follows calls by delivery worker unions for strikes on December 25 and December 31 to protest pay working conditions and lack of social securitynbspZomato has offered delivery partners payouts of Rs 120150 per order during peak hours between 6 pm and 12 am as it is set to face higher order volumes around New Years EveThe company also promised earnings of up to Rs 3000 over the course of the day subject to order volumes and availability The platform has also temporarily waived penalties on order denials and cancellations to reduce income risk during uneven order flownbspSwiggy offered delivery workers earnings of up to Rs 10000 across December 31 2025 and January 1 2026 with peakhour pay of up to Rs 2000 between 6 pm and 12 am on New Years Eve Quick commerce player Zepto has also increased incentives for delivery partnersEarlier on December 25 2025 strike brief localised disruptions were reported in food delivery though platforms said operations stabilised later in the day Unions have claimed wider participation and urged continued mobilisation on December 31 2025On NSE Swiggy Limited shares were priced at Rs 39055 apiece down Rs 1345 or 333 per cent over the past five days Over the same period Eternal Limited parent company of Zomato dropped by Rs 560 or 196 per cent to Rs 280nbspGig and platform workers in India benefit from formal legal recognition portable socialsecurity benefits and a national registration framework through eShram under provisions of the Code on Social Security 2020 of the new labour codesnbspUnder the Social Security code aggregators are required to contribute 12 per cent of annual turnover capped at 5 per cent of payments made or payable to gig and platform workers to a Social Security Fund an official statement said https://dailyworld.in/national/swiggy-zomato-hike-delivery-incentives-amid-nationwide-gig-workers-strike-call-656433.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bus-row-intensifies-between-kerala-minister-and-thiruvananthapuram-mayor-656434.html Thiruvananthapuram Dec 31 Kerala Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar on Wednesday hit back at Thiruvananthapuram Mayor VV Rajesh in the ongoing controversy over the operation of city ebuses urging that his remarks should not be distorted The controversy erupted after Rajesh alleged that KSRTC had shifted the Corporationâs ebuses to other parts of the state under pressure from various political leadersThe filmstarturned Minister said it was incorrect to claim that the ebuses were procured under a Central government scheme pointing out that the stateâs share in the project amounted to Rs 500 crore accounting for 60 per cent of the total costHe said that the Corporation purchased 113 ebuses under this very arrangement and that the procurement was based on an agreement involving three partiesClarifying operational issues Ganesh Kumar said KSRTC buses attached to the Corporation were not being operated in other districts citing the complexity of maintenance as the reasonâAt present they are not being run outside the district because of the complicated maintenance requirementsâ he said adding that replacing a damaged battery alone would cost Rs 28 lakhThe Minister said that if the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor demanded the return of all 113 ebuses they would be sent back within 24 hoursâAll that is required is a letter to the KSRTC CMDâ he said adding that in return KSRTC would deploy 150 buses in the cityHowever he made it clear that if the Corporation buses were handed back they would not be allowed to be parked on KSRTC premisesGanesh Kumar said the Mayor has not spoken to him directly about the issue and suggested that he has been misinformed by someoneâWe are ready to return the vehicles without any hesitationâ he said explaining that the drivers conductors and workshop facilities for the buses were all provided by KSRTCEarlier Mayor VV Rajesh had said that ebuses should operate only within the city limits and that the buses deployed outside the city should be brought back immediatelyHe alleged that political pressure was behind the decision to operate them elsewhere and said the Corporation must receive its rightful share of profitsThe Mayor said the agreement could not be altered at the discretion of one or two individuals and reiterated that the buses have been provided by the Centre to the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation He said the buses should benefit residents within the Corporation limits and added that the contract documents with KSRTC would be examinedThe BJP created history early this month when it won the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation for the first time displacing the CPIMled Left Front which ruled the Corporation for over four decades IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bus-row-intensifies-between-kerala-minister-and-thiruvananthapuram-mayor-656434.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/as-aqi-worsens-delhi-minister-says-govt-making-serious-efforts-to-deal-with-pollution-656438.html New Delhi Dec 31 IANS Delhi Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood on Wednesday said the government is making serious efforts to address the worsening pollution problem in the national capital while also pointing out that environmental conditions in neighbouring states are significantly affecting the citys air qualitynbspThe capitals air quality deteriorated further on Wednesday slipping into the severe category with the Air Quality Index AQI recorded at 408 Dense fog combined with heavy pollution sharply reduced visibility across large parts of the city adding to commuter woesSpeaking to reporters during an inspection at Janakpuri C2C Block Sood said This pollution is not caused only by current factors or solely by Delhi The environment in neighbouring states also plays a major role in Delhis pollution That is why the Delhi government is in talks with neighbouring statesnbspHe said the government is working on multiple fronts to tackle the crisisnbspEfforts are being made to control dust strengthen public transport and reduce emissions from vehicles etc to reduce the pollution levels Last year apart from the oddeven formula if something had been done maybe today there would not have been such problems in Delhi The previous government did not do anything and now we are dealing with the work they had ignored Sood saidEmphasising that the government is taking concrete action rather than relying on slogans the Minister said We are working day and night to deal with the pollution problem Serious steps have to be taken to reduce the pollution rather than just slogans that the previous government used to makenbspApart from the oddeven formula we are working on a new EV policy efforts are underway to control dust on roads and Phase V of the metro is also being introduced for public transportation All these things will take some time but we are continuously working to find solutions for the pollution problem of DelhiSood also highlighted regular monitoring and inspections being carried out by the governmentnbspEvery week the Delhi Ministers and senior government officials visit around three places to inspect cleanliness and other development works he saidnbspIn the past year I have addressed several issues as an MLA I want to assure the public that whether it is the Municipal Corporation or any other department under the Delhi government we will resolve all problems Passing the responsibility onto others is now a thing of the past We will take responsibility ourselves and work to reduce the difficulties faced by the people of Delhi he addedMeanwhile air quality remained alarming across several parts of the capitalnbspThe persistent foggy conditions coincided with worrying projections from air quality forecasters who warned that pollution levels across the national capital region are likely to worsen further as the year draws to a close https://dailyworld.in/national/as-aqi-worsens-delhi-minister-says-govt-making-serious-efforts-to-deal-with-pollution-656438.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-singh-cm-yogi-offer-prayers-at-hanuman-garhi-and-ram-lalla-temple-in-ayodhya-656439.html Ayodhya Dec 31 IANS Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday visited Hanuman Garhi in Ayodhya where they offered prayers to Lord Hanuman amid devotional chantsnbspAfter paying obeisance at Hanuman Garhi the two leaders proceeded to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi complex where they offered prayers at the Ram Lalla temple and the Ram DarbarnbspThey performed aarti circumambulated the temple and prayed for peace prosperity and the welfare of the nation and Uttar PradeshnbspDefence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Ayodhya earlier in the day to participate in the Pratishtha Dwadashi programme He was received by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport from where they travelled together to Hanuman Garhi and later to the Ram Janmabhoomi complexAmid chants of Jai Shri Ram and Vedic mantras the Defence Minister and the Chief Minister participated in temple rituals and hoisted the religious flag atop the Maa Annapurna temple within the complexnbspAs they emerged from the temple devotees greeted them with loud chants of Jai Shri RamnbspChief Minister Yogi Adityanath waved to the crowd and blessed children gathered at the sitenbspA deeply devotional and festive atmosphere prevailed across the temple complex throughout the dayA large number of devotees from across the country and abroad thronged Ayodhya on the occasion of Pratishtha Dwadashi to have darshan of Lord Shri RamnbspLong queues were witnessed as the temple complex echoed with devotional slogans with devotees describing the experience as spiritually uplifting and peacefulnbspAs part of the religious observances Tatvakalash rituals havan mantra chanting and special prayers were conductednbspThe temple administration had made elaborate arrangements deploying additional security personnel and volunteers to ensure smooth crowd management and convenience for devotees https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-singh-cm-yogi-offer-prayers-at-hanuman-garhi-and-ram-lalla-temple-in-ayodhya-656439.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 14:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/three-die-of-suffocation-in-bihar-656441.html Patna Dec 31 Three people died of suffocation as the room got filled with smoke from a coal brazier lit to protect themselves from cold conditions in Bihars Gaya district Three members of a family a woman and two children lost their lives to suffocation in the Wazirganj police station areaThe victims were identified as Meena Devi 60 wife of Gango Manjhi her grandson Sujit Kumar 3 and granddaughter Anshu Kumari 5 the police saidTo protect themselves from the cold the family reportedly lit a charcoal brazier inside a room on Tuesday night before going to sleepThe door and windows were closed causing smoke to accumulate inside the room leading to the death of all three due to asphyxiationFamily members said that when they opened the room late at night it was filled with smoke and the trio was found unconsciousThey were immediately taken to a local hospital where doctors declared them deadWazirganj Station House Officer Neeraj Kumar said that prima facie the deaths appear to have been caused by suffocation due to smoke from the charcoal brazierWe are investigating all aspects of the incident and the exact cause of death will be confirmed after the postmortem examination report Kumar saidThe bodies have been sent to the Anugrah Narayan Magadh Medical College Hospital for postmortem examinationThe incident has cast a pall of gloom over the villagePolice have appealed to residents not to use charcoal braziers or heaters in closed rooms advising people to keep windows openThey further warned that if smoke accumulates or discomfort is felt individuals should immediately step outside and ventilate the roomA similar incident occurred on the night of December 26 in Ambika Bhawani Colony near Bharat Milap Chowk under the Bhagwan Bazar police station area of Chhapra city Bihar where four members of a family lost their lives due to toxic fumes from a charcoal brazierThe family had lit a charcoal brazier inside their room to protect themselves from the severe cold IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/three-die-of-suffocation-in-bihar-656441.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/they-are-humans-not-robots-or-bonded-labourers-aap-leader-backs-gig-workers-strike-656453.html New Delhi Dec 31 IANS Aam Aadmi Party AAP Rajya Sabha member Raghav Chadha on Wednesday extended support to the nationwide strike by gig workers associated with leading delivery and ecommerce platforms asserting that their voices and demands deserve to be heard as they are humans not robots or bonded labournbspThousands of gig workers linked to major delivery and ecommerce platforms observed a nationwide strike on Wednesday impacting services across several statesnbspDelivery partners working with companies such as Zomato Swiggy Blinkit Zepto Amazon and Flipkart logged off their applications or substantially reduced work triggering concerns over delays cancellations and service disruptions on one of the busiest commercial days of the yearThe protest has been jointly called by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union TGPWU and the Indian Federation of AppBased Transport Workers IFAT with backing from several regional collectives operating across Maharashtra Karnataka DelhiNCR West Bengal and parts of Tamil NadunbspSpeaking to IANS Chadha who has been consistently raising the issue over recent months said I express my solidarity with the delivery boys and riders who are on strike today Their demands in this protest are completely justified They are lodging a symbolic protest so that their voices are heard I also urge the instant commerce companies to take care of these delivery partners they are also humans they are not robots or bonded labour They are also someones father son husband or brotherHighlighting their grievances he added They are saying that they are very overworked and underpaid Their core demands include better social security improved working conditions financial compensation and PF benefits Additionally this 10minute delivery torture because of which their physical and mental health is deteriorating should also end When delivery partners fail to deliver orders within 10 minutes they have to deal with the customers angernbspChadha who raised the issue during the Winter Session of Parliament further appealed to companies to allocate a small fraction of their valuation or gross revenue towards improving the lives of delivery partners saying that such steps would make the workers proudFollowing todays protest it is essential that these issues are addressed collectively through meaningful dialogue involving all stakeholders he addedThe AAP MP recently met Himanshu Thapliyal a Blinkit delivery partner who had gone viral after speaking about the meagre earnings of gig workersnbspThapliyal was invited to Chadhas residence for lunch after the MP raised concerns about the gig economy in Parliament During the interaction the rider detailed the pressures of delivery work pointing to unpredictable shifts algorithmdriven targets inconsistent income and limited access to grievance redressal mechanisms as routine challenges faced by ridersSpeaking about the meeting Chadha said I believe a detailed discussion must first be held with these delivery partners the riders and delivery boys There are many issues that perhaps you and even we were not fully aware of until now When I invited a rider named Himanshu from Blinkit to my home and spent around 25 to 3 hours with him sharing a meal and talking I understood their concerns After that their charter of demands and concerns was communicated to the management of these companiesChadha also alleged that delivery partners were being threatened by companies and team leaders for participating in the protestnbspFor the past two to three days every delivery boy and rider who has met me has been saying one thing for sure when they plan to go on strike they are being intimidated by some team leaders and some companies I wont say everyone is doing this but I believe that it is wrong he saidnbspThe AAP MP further said that in a democracy everyone has the right to raise their voice and protestnbspTheir voice should be heard They have gone on strike for a reason a symbolic oneday strike so that their voice reaches the right ears he addedExpressing confidence in a resolution Chadha added I am confident a positive solution will emerge because these gig workers these delivery boys are the backbone the pillar of this entire ecommerce industry I feel this pillar deserves attention Now that voices are rising from across the country the issue has been raised in Parliament and outside as well We will surely find a solution together and things will improve https://dailyworld.in/national/they-are-humans-not-robots-or-bonded-labourers-aap-leader-backs-gig-workers-strike-656453.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 16:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-foundation-adani-electricity-enable-1st-ever-air-travel-experience-for-swabhimaan-beneficiaries-656454.html Mumbai Dec 31 IANS The Adani Foundation in collaboration with Adani Electricity provided a firstever air travel experience to over 64 individuals including women beneficiaries of the Swabhimaan project students from the Adani Skill Development Centre ASDC in KosbadDahanu retired army officers senior citizens from local Navi Mumbai villages health workers and winners of drawing competition on the eve of the commercial launch of the Navi Mumbai International Airport NMIA this monthnbspOne of the days most memorable moments was the chance for participants to engage personally with Adani Foundation Chairperson Dr Priti Adani and Adani Group Chairman Gautam AdaninbspMany participants were beneficiaries of Project Swabhimaan and Adani Skill Development which are flagship CSR initiatives jointly supported by Adani Electricity NMIAL Adani Dahanu Thermal Power Station ADTPS and the Adani FoundationnbspTraveling during the commercial launch of the Navi Mumbai International Airport was a moment of immense pride Watching the landscape of Alibaug and Mumbai unfold from 11600 feet was surreal like seeing a cinematic world come to life said Harshada Gadekar a Swabhimaan beneficiaryThe highlight was the incredible honour of meeting Gautam Adani and Dr Priti Adani Their warmth made us feel truly valued Today we dont just feel like beneficiaries we feel special Gadekar addednbspAjit Dhadga a student at Adani Skill Development Center Kosbad near Dahanu shared his excitement Living near the Adani Dahanu Thermal Power Station Ive always been curious about largescale operations Todays visit took my aspirations to new heights Seeing the flight deck and the boarding process firsthand has made the world of aviation feel within my reach This day will be a driving force for my professional futureSince its launch in 2022 Swabhimaan has made significant strides in womens empowerment and livelihood generation by providing Entrepreneurship Development Programs EDP to women from underprivileged communitiesnbspAt Adani Foundation we believe true empowerment goes beyond livelihoods it is about dignity and opening doors to new possibilities This initiative is our way of telling our beneficiaries that their dreams matter said a spokesperson from the Adani FoundationA spokesperson from Adani Electricity said that Powering lives is not just about electricity its about illuminating the path to progressnbspWe are proud to bridge the gap between marginalised communities and the modern infrastructure they help build Seeing the joy of our Swabhimaan partners as they took to the skies reinforces our purpose of being a partner in Indias growth story the spokesperson addednbspNavi Mumbai International Airport NMIA began commercial operations on December 25 marking a major milestone for Mumbais aviation sector and Indias infrastructure growth https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-foundation-adani-electricity-enable-1st-ever-air-travel-experience-for-swabhimaan-beneficiaries-656454.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 18:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kolkata-records-coldest-day-of-season-as-minimum-temperature-continues-to-drop-across-bengal-656289.html Kolkata Dec 30 Winter has tightened its grip on West Bengal leaving the entire region shivering in bonechilling cold as minimum temperatures continue to plummet On Tuesday the city of Kolkata recorded the coldest day of the season with the minimum temperature plummeting to 126 degrees Celsius 12 degrees below normal A day earlier the minimum temperature was 135 degrees CMoreover the citys maximum temperature was 182 degrees Celsius 72 degrees below normal According to Met officials the unusual drop in the days maximum temperature resulted in biting cold sustained throughout the day According to the official the city of Kolkata has not witnessed this type of winter spell for several yearsThe official said that the temperature will largely remain the same in the coming days with the possibility of the minimum temperature dropping furtherOn Monday the minimum temperature in Purulia dropped to 72 degrees Celsius the lowest in South Bengal The minimum temperature in the hill town of Darjeeling was 44 degrees Celsius Asansol recorded 91 degrees Digha 112 Cooch Behar 136 Sriniketan 73 Kalimpong 10 and Burdwan 9 degrees CelsiusThe minimum nighttime temperatures in Kolkata and other districts of south Bengal will remain largely unchanged for the next two days This means the current cold spell will continue for now After that the minimum temperature may gradually rise by 23 degrees Celsius There is no forecast of a decrease in the intensity of winter before the New Year said the MET officialIn Kolkata the sky will be mostly clear and cloudless ââFog may be present in some areas during morning hours The weather office has said that dry weather will prevail throughout South Bengal for the time being A warning for light to moderate fog has been issued across Bengal This may reduce visibility to 200 metresHowever the Met Office has issued a separate warning with regard to fog in north Bengal Darjeeling Cooch Behar and North Dinajpur districts will experience dense fog in the next few days Visibility may drop to between 199 metres and 50 metres There is also a possibility of light rain and snowfall in Darjeeling from Wednesday to Friday IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kolkata-records-coldest-day-of-season-as-minimum-temperature-continues-to-drop-across-bengal-656289.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/education-key-to-tribal-and-regional-development-prez-murmu-in-gumla-656292.html Gumla Jharkhand Dec 30 President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday called upon the tribal community especially the youth to remain rooted in their cultural heritage while embracing modern education science and technology for overall development Addressing the interstate sociocultural gathering âKartik Jatraâ at Raidih block in Jharkhandâs Gumla district the President emphasised that preserving tribal identity and traditions is essential even as society progressesEducation is the greatest asset for development The holistic progress of society and the state is possible only through its expansion and dissemination she saidPaying tributes to eminent tribal leader Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon a native of Gumla President Murmu described him as a source of inspirationDespite receiving education abroad he devoted his life and thoughts to his land and people viewing education as the most powerful instrument of social change she said adding that the Kartik Jatra reflects the same spirit even todayShe noted that Kartik Oraonâs dream of establishing a university in Gumla would soon be realisedHighlighting the regionâs significance the President said the area connecting Jharkhand Chhattisgarh and Odisha is rich in rivers forests plateaus and mountains and has preserved some of the countryâs oldest traditionsCalling her visit to Jharkhand a pilgrimage she said it was the birthplace and workplace of Lord Birsa Munda who is revered nationwide as a symbol of social justice and tribal prideShe also recalled renowned social reformer and freedom fighter Jatra Tana Bhagat who was born in Gumla and led a nonviolent movement against British rule inspired by Mahatma Gandhiâs idealsRemembering Param Vir Chakra awardee Shaheed Albert Ekka she said his unparalleled bravery during the 1971 IndiaPakistan war remains a matter of national pridePresident Murmu praised the rich cultural heritage of the tribal community noting that its music dance drama and art traditions are exceptionally vibrantThis richness is reflected in the fact that more than 100 tribal artistes from across the country have been honoured with the Padma Shri she saidThe programme featured colourful performances by tribal dance troupes from various states creating a festive atmosphereA large gathering attended the event held at Pankhraj Saheb Kartik Oraon Chowk Barrier Bagicha Manjhatoli in GumlaThe event was attended by Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on SCST Affairs Faggan Singh Kulaste and Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar among others IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/education-key-to-tribal-and-regional-development-prez-murmu-in-gumla-656292.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ngt-transfers-suo-moto-case-on-karedu-land-dispute-to-southern-zone-bench-656294.html New Delhi Dec 30 The National Green Tribunal NGT has granted one more opportunity to villagers of Karedu in Andhra Pradesh to place material on record in support of their plea opposing diversion of agricultural land for industrial use A bench comprising Judicial Member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and Expert Member Ishwar Singh was hearing a complaint filed on the green tribunalâs public grievances portal later registered as an original application suo motu on its own motionThe complaint alleged that over 8348 acres of fertile agricultural land in Karedu village of Ulavapadu mandal Sri Potti Sree Ramulu Nellore district was proposed to be taken over for industrial use by a private solar company threatening the livelihood of nearly 16000 familiesNoting that the applicant did not appear before the NGT and had not placed any supporting material on record the Justice Tyagiled Bench said it was nevertheless not inclined to dismiss the caseIn view of the nature of environmental issues raised we do not consider dismissal in default of the original application to be appropriate the green tribunal observedOne more opportunity may be given to the applicant for appearance and placing the material available with him in support of the averments made in the original application it addedTaking into account that the cause of action arose in Andhra Pradesh the NGT held that the matter would be more appropriately heard by the Southern Zone BenchIn view of the facts and circumstances of the case including the fact that the place of accrual of the cause of action lies within the jurisdiction of the Southern Zone Bench of this Tribunal at Chennai we are of the considered view that it will be appropriate if the case is further heard thereâ the order saidAccordingly the Justice Tyagiled Bench directed the registry to list the matter before the Chennai Bench on January 12 2026 after obtaining necessary orders for transfer and to inform the applicant of the date of hearing The NGT also directed that the applicant be asked to appear and place all available material in support of his claims on the next date IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ngt-transfers-suo-moto-case-on-karedu-land-dispute-to-southern-zone-bench-656294.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-maharashtra-sees-political-consolidation-growth-push-amid-fiscal-pressure-656299.html Mumbai Dec 30 For Maharashtra 2025 unfolded as a year of political consolidation steady on governance ambitious on economic growth but strained socially and fiscally The state navigated the year under the dominance of the ruling Mahayuti coalition a weakened Opposition sustained infrastructure momentum and recurring concerns around agrarian distress public safety and fiscal discipline The year was marked by political realignments a strong push for infrastructure and industry persistent rural stress and recurring questions around law and order From local body elections to budgetary pressures and from marquee investment announcements to climatelinked disruptions Maharashtra experienced a complex year shaped by both continuity and churnPolitics in the state was largely defined by the continued dominance of the Bharatiya Janata Partyled MahaYuti alliance Local body elections including municipal councils and nagar panchayats highlighted the organisational strength of the ruling parties particularly the BJP even as Opposition parties struggled to regain lost ground at the grassroots levelThe year also witnessed sustained political churn with leaders and workers switching allegiances especially at the district and taluka levels While these shifts did not immediately alter the balance of power they reinforced the perception of a fragmented Opposition and a politically consolidated ruling dispensation The Opposition in particular is yet to recover from its defeat in the Assembly elections as well as recent losses in Nagar Parishad and Nagar Panchayat pollsAgitations over Maratha and OBC reservations dominated the political discourse ProMaratha quota activist Manoj JarangePatil and senior OBC leader and Mahayuti minister Chhagan Bhujbal emerged as prominent voices articulating their respective positions The government moved swiftly to pacify JarangePatil by implementing decisions related to issuing Kunbi certificates to eligible members of the Maratha community while also forming a Cabinet committee to address OBCrelated concernsOn the economic front Maharashtra retained its position as one of Indiaâs key growth engines The state continued to attract investments in manufacturing logistics renewable energy and services backed by industrial corridors urban infrastructure projects and investor incentivesThe government claimed that most Memoranda of Understanding worth over Rs 15 lakh crore signed at the World Economic Forum summit in Davos earlier this year are at various stages of implementation It also expressed confidence in signing additional highvalue MoUs at the next WEF summit scheduled for January 2026Maharashtra continued to lead the country in attracting foreign direct investment accounting for over 34 per cent of the national shareHowever fiscal pressures remained a persistent undercurrent Rising public debt of Rs 934 lakh crore a revenue deficit of Rs 45891 crore a fiscal deficit of Rs 136235 crore along with increasing expenditure on salaries pensions and interest payments kept the stateâs finances under scrutiny Supplementary demands presented during the year reflected the governmentâs effort to balance development spending with revenue constraintsMaharashtra also remained among the top contributors to Goods and Services Tax GST collections nationally underlining the strength of its formal economy At the same time concerns over revenue sustainability and longterm fiscal discipline continued to engage economists and policy watchersFor rural Maharashtra 2025 proved to be a mixed year Erratic weather patterns including uneven rainfall and localised flooding impacted crop yields across several regions Farmers in Vidarbha Marathwada and parts of western Maharashtra faced distress due to crop losses and price volatility The state government announced relief measures including a package of nearly Rs 32000 crore financial assistance and insurance claims However farmer organisations continued to demand more comprehensive support including loan waivers and improved procurement mechanismsLaw and order remained a challenge Crime statistics and highprofile cases kept public attention focused on safety particularly crimes against women and children Urban centres such as Mumbai Pune and Nagpur grappled with organised crime cybercrime and drugrelated offences while rural areas witnessed incidents linked to social tensions and land disputesThe state police pursued recruitment drives and modernisation efforts with lakhs of aspirants competing for limited government jobs reflecting both employment aspirations and underlying economic uncertainty among the youth The government was compelled to intensify efforts to curb the growing menace of cybercrimeAntiMaoist operations in parts of eastern Maharashtra showed progress though officials acknowledged that longterm solutions would require sustained development and governance interventions The government reiterated its commitment to eliminating Left Wing Extremism by next year in line with the Centreâs stated objectiveInfrastructure remained one of the governmentâs strongest talking points in 2025 Major road projects metro expansions coastal road works and urban transport upgrades progressed across Mumbai and other cities Renewable energy and power transmission projects also gained momentum aligning with national climate and energy goalsDespite these advances urban governance challenges persisted Heavy monsoon rains once again exposed deficiencies in drainage systems particularly in Mumbai and its surrounding regions Housing affordability traffic congestion and environmental concerns continued to trouble urban residentsIn the social sector health and education demanded sustained attention While improvements in public health infrastructure were underway gaps in service delivery especially in tribal and remote areas drew criticism Incidents related to malnutrition and access to healthcare underscored persistent inequalitiesOn the education front the governmentâs proposal to introduce Hindi as a third language triggered strong opposition from political parties educationists and civil society groups The move was eventually withdrawn but it led to a rare political moment as estranged cousins Uddhav and Raj Thackeray came together to assert Marathi pride The rapprochement resulted in an alliance for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections aimed at checking the BJPâs influence and protecting the interests of the Marathi âmanoosâ and MumbaiAs Maharashtra steps into 2026 the year gone by leaves a sense of guarded continuity The coming year will test whether the lessons of 2025 translate into deeper reforms or whether the state continues on a path of incremental change as it pursues the ambitious âViksit Maharashtra 2047â mission to become a fivetrilliondollar economySanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjayjiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-maharashtra-sees-political-consolidation-growth-push-amid-fiscal-pressure-656299.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/as-new-year-dawns-hope-of-snow-in-himachal-brings-cheers-656302.html ShimlaManali Dec 30 After an extremely wet southwest monsoon in Himachal Pradesh that claimed several lives and damaged infrastructures this winter has been bereft of precipitation since October 9 turning mountains brown due to the lack of a âblanket of snowâ and rains As the New Year dawns a hope of widespread snow and rain has cheered both the tourists and local farmers As per the India Meteorological Department IMD Himachal Pradesh may receive rain and snow on December 31 âLight rain or snow likely at isolated places on December 30 and January 2 with light to moderate rain and snow likely at many places on December 31 and at a few places on January 1 over the stateâ said the IMDâDry weather is likely to prevail during the remaining days of the weekâ it addedMembers of the hospitality industry say the long spell of snowless days has so far spoiled the plans of tourists to holiday in the hills âNow with the IMD predicting snow just ahead of the New Year dawn we expect a good footfall of the holidaymakersâ a Shimlabased hotelier told IANSHe said they were getting so many queries from tourists about the possibility of snow in and around Shimla âWe are asking them to visit hill destinations to enjoy a snowy landscapeâ he addedNarkanda the heart of the apple belt some 65 km from the state capital and the popular tourist resorts Manali and Dalhousie are bereft of snow cover However hills overlooking Manali have plenty of snow âWe are really enjoying basking in the sun for the past many days in Shimla We are desperately awaiting the onset of snow the seasonâs first hereâ Jagdeep Ghuman a tourist from Delhi told IANSExperts at the Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni in Solan district say traditionally October to December are dry months in the state and longterm observations 19802024 indicate that November receives belownormal rainfall in nearly 682 per cent of the years In subhumid midhill regions nearly 3050 per cent of soil moisture is lost through evaporation a figure likely to increase under the current conditions The recurrence of drought during these months has become common and with nearly 70 per cent of the stateâs area being rainfed the adoption of moistureconservation agronomic practices has become essential they sayInsufficient soil moisture during the dry spell may adversely affect fruit plant saplings by hampering root development restricting nutrient uptake and increasing susceptibility to diseases The experts advised that new plantations of deciduous fruit crops such as apple peach plum apricot persimmon walnut and kiwifruit should be postponed until moisture conditions improveFor a small pea grower Jeet Singh Negi in mountainous Lahaul Valley it has been an almost snowless NovemberDecember âOur fields are totally devoid of snow cover We are worried as winter precipitation ensures water security in these remote villages during summer when we sow the crop of peas and barleyâ he saidIn the state capital around 7000 feet above sea level the minimum temperature on Tuesday was 10 degrees Celsius six degrees above normal Tabo an ancient seat of Buddhist religion and culture in picturesque Spiti Valley was the coldest habitat in the state with bonechilling cold wind of 39 km per hourThe police have been advising the public not to go to high mountains as these places can be risky due to black ice formation early morning where motorists canât see it their tyres canât grip it and their brakes donât work properly on it Keeping in mind to set cash registers ringing several private hoteliers in prominent destinations have hiked room tariffsInformation suggests a room fetching Rs 3000 from October to midDecember is sold off at Rs 8000 a day in most of the hotels in Shimla Kufri Chail Narkanda and Kasauli Also government officials warned to get an advance booking of a hotel or a homestay unit before travelling as most of the hotels in the state capital Shimla Manali Kasauli and Dharamsala have 90 to 98 per cent occupancy till January 4âThe occupancy in most of our properties is close to 80 per cent We are expecting to do good business this weekâ the HPTDC official told IANSHimachal Pradesh has no highend hotels and restaurants in faroff areas The trend of rural homestays that was started in 2008 has been driving tourists to the interiors and they are the best option to stay and enjoy the pristine nature and snowy landscapeThe stateâs economy is highly dependent on tourism besides hydroelectric power and horticultureVishal Gulati can be contacted at vishalgianscom IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/as-new-year-dawns-hope-of-snow-in-himachal-brings-cheers-656302.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-minister-accuses-cong-of-saffronisation-warns-media-against-acting-as-bjp-rss-mouthpiece-656305.html Thiruvananthapuram Dec 30 Keralaâs Education and Labour Minister V Sivankutty on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the Congress alleging that the party has completed its âsaffronisationâ both at the national level and in Kerala and has effectively turned into a recruitment agency for the RSS Addressing the media Sivankutty cautioned sections of the press against functioning as public relations platforms for what he described as an âunholy CongressBJP allianceââAt a time when Indian democracy is under severe strain the Congress has chosen silence and submissionâ he alleged drawing parallels with former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Raoâs silence during the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992 âThat silence was for whom The same obedience continues even todayâ he saidHe pointed out that after Shashi Tharoor and Digvijaya Singh senior leader Salman Khurshid had also come out in praise of the RSS underscoring what he termed the Congressâs ideological driftTurning to Kerala politics Sivankutty alleged that the CongressBJP nexus had moved beyond rhetoric and was manifesting through âpractical experimentsâ on the ground He cited the Mattathur grama panchayat election results as evidence of what he termed blatant vote tradingâNumbers do not lieâ he said listing instances where Congress votes collapsed sharply in wards won by the BJP In Nooluvalli ward he said the BJP won while the Congress secured just 44 votes in Korechal ward the Congress got 58 votes when the BJP emerged victorious and in Murikkungal ward where the UDF won the BJP polled only 66 votesâThis is not adjustment politics this is blatant vote tradingâ Sivankutty alleged accusing the Congress of sharing votes with anyone to defeat the LDFDespite this he pointed out the LDF emerged as the single largest party in Mattathur with 10 seats dealing a setback to what he called a communal allianceThe Minister also referred to the revelation by Mattathur panchayat member KR Ouseph who claimed that DCC leaders had asked cadres to go slow on boothlevel work during the Thrissur Lok Sabha electionAccording to Sivankutty the BJPâs victory and improved vote share in Thrissur were facilitated by this âcovert vote transferâHe further alleged that Congress leaders such as K Muraleedharan and Sabarinath had come out in support of BJP demands including the call by a BJP councilor for CPIM MLA VK Prasanth to vacate his office in ThiruvananthapuramBranding the allegation that Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was an âagent of the Prime Ministerâ as an RSS narrative Sivankutty said it was shameful that Congress leaders were amplifying it IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-minister-accuses-cong-of-saffronisation-warns-media-against-acting-as-bjp-rss-mouthpiece-656305.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mini-khel-mahakumbh-to-be-held-in-surat-from-january-9-to-12-656309.html Gandhinagar Dec 30 At a time when children are increasingly glued to mobile phones and digital gadgets Gandhinagarbased Childrenâs Research University has taken a commendable initiative to bring Gujaratâs young talent back to the playground and nurture their abilities through a scientific approach The university will organise the Statelevel âUnder11 Athletics Meet Season 40â in Surat from January 9 to 12 2026 The event has generated enthusiastic participation with more than 4500 child athletes registering from across the state Envisioned as a âMini Khel Mahakumbhâ the meet is not merely a competition but a concerted effort to identify and provide a platform for Gujaratâs hidden sporting talent at an early age A total of 11 athletic events will be held during the meet As many as 1056 winners will be awarded prize money amounting to Rs 22 lakhIn addition winning athletes will get a direct opportunity for admission to the District Level Sports School DLSS run by the Sports Authority of Gujarat SAG a move expected to be a gamechanger for their sporting careersThe competition will be hosted at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University Surat and will feature separate categories for boys and girls in Under9 and Under11 age groups Events include 60m 100m 200m and 400m races hurdles tennis ball throw medicine ball throw standing broad jump long jump high jump and javelin throwOrganisers highlighted that sports are not limited to physical exercise alone but play a crucial role in a childâs mental development and character buildingDeveloping sports skills through a scientific framework they said will help children become physically fit mentally resilient and better prepared for the future Gujarat has steadily built a strong and modern sports infrastructure over the past decade positioning itself as one of Indiaâs leading states for sports developmentThe state hosts worldclass facilities such as the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad the worldâs largest cricket stadium along with internationalstandard arenas for football athletics swimming and indoor sportsThrough initiatives like the Sardar Patel Sports Enclave districtlevel sports complexes and a wide network of District Level Sports Schools DLSS Gujarat has ensured access to quality training facilities at the grassrootsContinuous investment in stadiums synthetic tracks hostels sports science support and talent identification programmes under the Sports Authority of Gujarat has helped nurture young athletes while successfully hosting national and international events reflecting the stateâs growing focus on sports excellence and athletecentric development IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mini-khel-mahakumbh-to-be-held-in-surat-from-january-9-to-12-656309.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-in-worlds-top-2-list-as-social-protection-coverage-of-citizens-crosses-64-pc-656314.html New Delhi Dec 30 Indiaâs social protection coverage has risen sharply from 19 per cent in 2015 to 643 per cent in 2025 taking the country to the second rank in the world after China in providing social protection to its citizens After the increase in the number of social welfare schemes for the poor the latest labour reforms announced by the government this year are expected to enhance this security furtherIndia has been conferred with the prestigious International Social Security Association ISSA Award 2025 for Outstanding Achievement in Social Security in Malaysia in October this yearKeeping up the momentum of reforms Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana on August 15 2025 with an outlay of Rs 99446 crore with the aim to incentivise the creation of more than 35 crore jobs in the country over a period of 2 years Out of these 192 crore beneficiaries will be first timers entering the workforceMore than 235 lakh establishments have been registered on the PMVBRY portal so far with the number of first time employee beneficiaries estimated at over 207 lakhIn order to support employment generation enhance employability and social security across all sectors the scheme has been launched with a special focus on the manufacturing sector Under the Scheme while the firsttime employees will get one monthâs wage up to Rs 15000 the employers will be given incentives for a period of up to two years for generating additional employment with extended benefits for another two years for the manufacturing sectorIn a landmark reform the government consolidated 29 existing labour laws into four Labour Codes the Code on Wages 2019 the Industrial Relations Code 2020 the Code on Social Security 2020 and the Occupational Safety Health and Working Conditions Code 2020The new framework enhances ease of doing business while expanding wage security social protection and workplace safety for workers including women migrant gig and platform workersThe code on wages aims to strengthen workersâ rights while promoting simplicity and uniformity in wagerelated compliance for employers Uniform definition of wages and statutory minimum wages across sectors improving income security and reducing disputesThe industrial relations code simplifies laws related to trade unions conditions of employment in industrial establishment or undertaking investigation and settlement of industrial disputesThe social security extends social security to all workers including unorganized gig and platform workerscovering life health maternity and provident fund benefits while introducing digital systems and facilitatorbased compliance for greater efficiencyThe code on occupational safety and health aims to safeguard worker rights and safe working conditions and creating a businessfriendly regulatory environmentIn order to further enhance social security benefits EPFO has undertaken a major digital transformation during the year with the autosettlement of claims up to Rs 5 Lakh a centralised Pension System and a FATenabled UAN activation to make life easier for subscribers of the schemeSimilarly benefits for workers have been increased with the expansion of the Employees State Insurance Corporation ESIC footprint to 713 districts in the country from 688 districts earlier The number of beds in hospitals run under the ESIC scheme have been increased threefold to 87715 in FY 202425ESIC has also launched the scheme to Promote Registration of EmployersEmployees SPREE 2025 providing a onetime opportunity for employers and employees who may have been inadvertently left out from ESI coverage to register without any concern for retrospective coverage or punitive action IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-in-worlds-top-2-list-as-social-protection-coverage-of-citizens-crosses-64-pc-656314.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-entrepreneurship-cum-awareness-mela-organised-in-udhampur-under-mission-yuva-656316.html Udhampur Dec 30 The District Employment and Counselling Centre organised a daylong entrepreneurshipcumawareness mela recently under the Mission YUVA to promote selfemployment and enterprising spirit among the women and selfhelp groups SHGs The initiative organised in collaboration with the Udhampur district administration was aimed at informing and motivating local women to explore and avail selfemployment opportunities through different governmentsponsored entrepreneurship development programsThe event was formally inaugurated by Additional District Development Commissioner Vinod Kumar Anand and other officers Various departmental stalls were set up by different departments to spread awareness among the participants about the initiativeAt the outset Assistant Director Employment Priyanka Gupta delivered a detailed briefing on the Mission YUVA highlighting its objectives features and the support mechanism available for aspiring entrepreneursOne of the beneficiaries told IANS The entire setup of Mission YUVA has been arranged here I would like to thank the government and the Prime Minister for bringing us to this point and empowering usADDC Udhampur Jugal Kishore said In Mission YUVA Udhampur ranks at the top among all districts in the state College and institute students are also being made aware of the opportunities and guidance for their future Mission YUVA is a flagship program and our effort is to expand it across all sectors Special grants have been provided for women under this programNotably Mission YUVA is a flagship initiative to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a thriving hub for entrepreneurship and employment As the region faces high unemployment due to a lack of private sector opportunities the program seeks to train the youth and women with varied skill sets â thereby preparing them as a futureready workforceVarious ministries and government agencies along with academic institutions are engaged in promoting âexperiential learningâ a concept that facilitates learning along with handson experience thereby preparing the youths for the future IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-entrepreneurship-cum-awareness-mela-organised-in-udhampur-under-mission-yuva-656316.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-tribal-politics-shapes-tripura-as-bjp-consolidates-indigenous-base-656317.html Agartala Dec 30 Tribal politics which has traditionally played a decisive role in Tripuraâs electoral process continued to shape the stateâs political landscape in the outgoing year with the ruling BJP focusing on consolidating its organisational base among indigenous communities while gradually reducing its dependence on tribalbased allies particularly the Tipra Motha Party TMP Ahead of early next yearâs elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council TTAADC the most important constitutional body after the Tripura Legislative Assembly tribalbased politics has intensified across the stateSince 2021 the TMP has been governing the politically significant 30member TTAADC which covers nearly twothirds of Tripuraâs 10491 sq km geographical area and is home to over 1216 lakh people about 84 per cent of whom belong to indigenous communitiesIn the runup to the TTAADC polls all major political parties including the ruling BJP its allies TMP and the Indigenous Peopleâs Front of Tripura IPFT and opposition CPI M and Congress have intensified efforts to consolidate their support among tribals who constitute nearly onethird of Tripuras 42 million populationTo lessen its reliance on tribalbased parties TMP and IPFT the BJP has since early this year stepped up organisational activities in tribaldominated areas Both TMP and IPFT are currently allies of the BJPAs part of this strategy the BJP on July 17 organised a key meeting titled Janajati Chintan Shivir bringing together elected representatives and organisational leaders from indigenous communitiesChief Minister Manik Saha state BJP president Rajib Bhattacharjee Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma former MP Rebati Tripura all tribal MLAs TTAADC members and other tribal leaders attended the daylong conclaveSenior tribal leader and BJP state general secretary Bipin Debbarma claimed that around 14000 people mostly from indigenous communities had joined the BJP over the past three to four monthsHowever as the BJP intensified public outreach programmes tensions escalated between the party and its ally TMP BJP leaders alleged that TMP workers attacked BJP karyakartas functionaries in several areasAt least 23 BJP karyakartas were injured in more than 10 attacks by TMP activists across different districts Debbarma told IANSIn one of the major incidents on July 27 at least seven BJP Janajati Morcha members were seriously injured when TMP supporters allegedly attacked them at Asharambari in Khowai district while they were gathered at a residence to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs monthly radio programme âMann Ki BaatâSimilar incidents were reported later at Takarjala in Sepahijala district and other parts of the state resulting in injuries to several BJP workersMeanwhile the TMP Congress and CPI M also claimed that several thousand people had joined their respective parties during the yearAfter prolonged negotiations the tribalbased TMP then in the opposition signed a tripartite agreement with the Centre and the Tripura government on March 2 last year 2024 in the presence of Home Minister Amit ShahSubsequently the party which has 13 MLAs joined the BJPled coalition government on March 7 adding a new dimension to the states political dynamicsTwo TMP MLAs Animesh Debbarma and Brishaketu Debbarma were inducted into the Chief Minister Manik Sahaled ministryDespite being part of the government the TMP led by Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma continued to press its demands organising demonstrations in Delhi on September 9 and staging a series of agitations in TripuraThe party has been demanding âGreater Tipralandâ a separate state for tribals under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution early conduct of the longpending Village Committee elections in TTAADC areas deportation of illegal migrants implementation of the Inner Line Permit ILP and execution of the tripartite agreementAmid what observers describe as a âsweetandsourâ relationship between the BJP and TMP the opposition Congress announced its willingness to support all âlegitimate demandsâ of the tribalbased party if it withdrew from the ruling coalitionThe TMP however did not respond to the appealPradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma a former state Congress President had quit the party in September 2019 primarily over differences related to filing a petition in the Supreme Court seeking implementation of the National Register of Citizens NRC in Tripura to safeguard indigenous rightsIn a surprising political turn Chief Minister Manik Saha launched sharp attacks on the BJPâs ally TMP warning that politics based on blackmail and threats would no longer be tolerated in TripuraAddressing a party programme at Baijal Bari in Khowai district last week CM Saha asserted that no force could prevent the BJP from working in tribal areasâOur guardians are Prime Minister Narendra Modi BJP national president JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah We believe in dialogue and peace not unrest Law and order will be maintained strictly through constitutional meansâ the Chief Minister had saidReferring to TMPâs demands CM Saha remarked âFirst it was Tipraland then Greater Tipraland and now One Northeast Anyone can raise demands but they must follow democratic processesâHe also highlighted increased budgetary allocations and infrastructure development in TTAADC areas under the BJP governmentOn the Kokborok language script issue Saha accused parties of hypocrisy saying earlier committees had discussed multiple script options but failed to reach a decisionâNow they selectively raise the issue to create confusion and provoke peopleâ he allegedCiting examples of the BJPâs tribal affinity the Chief Minister said that seven eminent personalities mostly tribal scholars and artists from Tripura received Padma Shri awards while senior tribal leader Jishnu Dev Varma was appointed Governor of TelanganaDevelopments in neighbouring Bangladesh also impacted TripuraPolitical turmoil and violence there triggered heightened security along the international border with the Border Security Force BSF intensifying vigil since JuneâJuly last year particularly after the fall of the Sheikh Hasinaled Awami League government on August 5 2024Reports of attacks on minorities especially Hindus in Bangladesh prompted widespread protests across Tripura by political parties civil society and nongovernment organisationsIn a major boost to religious tourism Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 22 inaugurated the redeveloped 524yearold Mata Tripura Sundari temple at Udaipur 54 km south of AgartalaThe redevelopment carried out under the PRASHAD Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive scheme at a cost of over Rs 54 crore enhanced facilities at one of the 51 Hindu Shakti PeethasAdditionally replicas of all 51 Shakti Peethas are being constructed at the underconstruction 51 Shakti Peethas Park at Banduar in Gomati district at a cost of Rs 9770 croreThe original 51 Shakti Peethas are spread across various states in India and also in Pakistan Nepal and BangladeshChief Minister Manik Saha laid the foundation stone for the park project on July 13Like other northeastern states Tripura intensified its war against drugs during the yearThe Tripura Police in coordination with central forces and intelligence agencies including Assam Rifles seized narcotics worth over Rs 500 crore mostly smuggled from Myanmar and arrested around 200 drug peddlersChief Minister Saha who also holds the Home portfolio reiterated the governments zerotolerance policy towards drugs stating that the administration remains committed to securing a drugfree future for Tripuraâs youthSujit Chakraborty can be contacted at sujitchakrabortynegmailcom IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-tribal-politics-shapes-tripura-as-bjp-consolidates-indigenous-base-656317.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-fear-grips-revenue-dept-after-dy-cms-crackdown-656318.html Patna Dec 30 A stir has been created in the Bihar Revenue and Land Reforms Department following strict action initiated by Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue and Land Reforms Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha The situation has escalated to the extent that some officials fearing action have written to the Governor and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar seeking interventionHowever Vijay Kumar Sinha has categorically stated that he will not bow to any pressureResponding to the unrest and resentment among officials the Deputy Chief Minister on Tuesday said that the government is working solely in the interest of the people and has no intention of hurting anyoneâOur intentions are absolutely clear The objective is to reform the Revenue and Land Reforms Department so that it serves the public betterâ he saidReferring to the Muzaffarpur land scam Vijay Sinha said that agricultural land was illegally transferred with the connivance of officialsHe recalled that during his tenure as Agriculture Minister he had ordered action against the Circle Officer CO involved and directed that an appeal be filed in courtâI have now taken fresh cognisance of the matter as Revenue Minister and those responsible for creating unnecessary disputes over undisputed government land will not be sparedâ Sinha saidOn officials going on leave during public interaction programs of the Revenue and Land Reforms Department in districts Vijay Sinha said âOnce systemic reforms are implemented the welfare of everyoneâincluding honest officialsâwill be ensuredâAfter assuming charge of the Revenue and Land Reforms Department Vijay Kumar Sinha is in action modeHe has been taking meetings of the department districtwise and making decisions on the spotResponding to a question on Naxalism Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha said that under the leadership of Union Home Minister Amit Shah Naxalism has been almost completely eradicated from the countryHe added that if governance under such leadership is ensured across all states the menace of Naxalism and extremism would be eliminated IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-fear-grips-revenue-dept-after-dy-cms-crackdown-656318.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-inks-contracts-worth-rs-4-666-crore-for-close-quarter-battle-carbine-heavy-weight-torpedoes-656320.html New Delhi Dec 30 The government on Tuesday announced it has signed contracts worth Rs 4666 crore for the procurement of Close Quarter Battle CQB Carbines and Heavy Weight Torpedoes The contract for over 425 lakh CQB carbines along with accessories worth Rs 2770 crore for the Indian Army and the Indian Navy was signed with Bharat Forge Ltd and PLR Systems Pvt LtdThe CQB carbine provides a critical edge in close combat through its compact design and high rate of fire ensuring rapid decisive lethality in confined spacesThe contract highlights the synergy between the government and the private sector which will further give impetus to the âMake in Indiaâ initiative the Defence Ministry saidThis project will also play a pivotal role in boosting the overall economy increasing employment avenues and will also empower indigenous defence industries by encouraging Indian MSMEs through components manufacturing and raw material supply it addedThe contract for the procurement and integration of 48 Heavy Weight Torpedoes along with associated equipment for Kalvari Class Submarines P75 of the Indian Navy at an approximate cost of Rs 1896 crore was signed with WASS Submarine Systems SRL ItalyThe acquisition will enhance the combat capability of the six Kalvari Class submarines The delivery of torpedoes will commence from April 2028 and will be completed by early 2030 said the ministryThese torpedoes have significant operational capabilities and advanced technological featuresThis achievement marks the culmination of an extraordinary persistent effort to equip Indian soldiers with worldclass lethality replacing legacy systems with cuttingedge indigenous technology under the âAatmanirbhar Bharatâ vision the Defence Ministry statement saidThe contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar SinghThe Ministry of Defence has signed capital contracts amounting to Rs 182492 crore for the modernisation of the Armed Forces in the financial year 202526 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-inks-contracts-worth-rs-4-666-crore-for-close-quarter-battle-carbine-heavy-weight-torpedoes-656320.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-v-p-radhakrishnan-reaffirms-sree-narayana-gurus-legacy-as-shashi-tharoors-book-released-at-sivagiri-656321.html Varkala Dec 30 VicePresident CP Radhakrishnan on Tuesday described One Caste One Religion One God as a great and timeless slogan saying that Sree Narayana Guru stood at the forefront of guiding society towards the future He was inaugurating the 93rd Sivagiri Theerthadanam conference at Sivagiri one of Keralas most important spiritual and social gatherings rooted in the Gurus reformist legacyVicePresident Radhakrishnan said the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru had played a decisive role in leading society forward by challenging deeprooted social divisionsThe Guru taught us that love is the greatest faith he said adding that the values and lessons imparted by Sree Narayana Guru continue to inspire generations and would remain relevant in the years to comeHe described Sivagiri as the centre of both the mind and the body and said the Gurus central mission was the upliftment of the human mindThe Gurus vision was to liberate people through education and knowledge the VicePresident saidHis aim was to make learning and awareness accessible to society at large and that objective was realised through his life and workHe underlined that the ideals propagated by Sree Narayana Guru were not confined to any single era but transcended time helping society move towards harmony equality and enlightenmentThe inaugural session was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar Union Minister Suresh Gopi Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and State Minister MB Rajesh among othersThe annual Sivagiri Theerthadanam celebrations began earlier on Tuesday with the hoisting of the flag by Swami Satchidananda President of the Sivagiri MuttAdding intellectual depth to the occasion Congress leader Shashi Tharoors latest book The Sage Who Reimagined Hinduism The Life Lessons amp Legacy of Sree Narayana Guru was released at the inaugural venue of the pilgrimageThe book was formally released by VicePresident Radhakrishnan who handed over the first copy to Governor Arlekar during a ceremony held at the Sivagiri Mutt in VarkalaTharoors book examines the life and philosophy of Sree Narayana Guru and the transformative changes he ushered in during the Kerala Renaissance while also exploring the Gurus wider impact on Hindu thought and social reformThe convergence of spiritual discourse public leadership and scholarly reflection at Sivagiri once again highlighted the enduring relevance of Sree Narayana Gurus message in contemporary India IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-v-p-radhakrishnan-reaffirms-sree-narayana-gurus-legacy-as-shashi-tharoors-book-released-at-sivagiri-656321.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/chhattisgarh-ed-files-supplementary-prosecution-complaint-nails-top-bureaucrats-and-politicians-in-liquor-scam-656323.html Raipur Dec 30 The Enforcement Directorate has filed a supplementary prosecution complaint that details a meticulously planned liquor scam generating proceeds of crime worth approximately Rs 2883 crore between 2019 and 2023 The probe exposes a powerful criminal syndicate that systematically undermined the states excise policy through multiple illegal channels to siphon off massive funds According to the investigation agency the latest complaint filed on December 26 arraigns 59 new individuals bringing the total number of accused to 81 These include senior bureaucrats such as retired IAS officer Anil Tuteja former Excise Commissioner Niranjan Das and ITS officer Arun Pati Tripathi who served as Managing Director of the state marketing corporation alongside around 30 fieldlevel excise officials who received fixed commissions for enabling illicit sales Political executives feature prominently with former Excise Minister Kawasi Lakhma Chaitanya Baghel son of the then Chief Minister and Saumya Chaurasia a deputy secretary in the Chief Ministers office who allegedly coordinated cash handling and officer postings all named for approving policies and channelling illicit funds into personal ventures The scam operated via four main streams âillegal commissionsâ on official liquor sales financed by inflating prices borne by the state exchequer a parallel offthebooks system for âselling unaccounted country liquorâ using duplicate holograms and cashpurchased bottles that evaded all duties Also annual âcartel paymentsâ from distillers to retain market dominance and licenses and extortion through a newly created license category that diverted substantial profits from foreign liquor manufacturers to the syndicate a statement of the investigation agency said Private players form the backbone of the operation led by Anwar Dhebar and Arvind Singh with distilleries and merchants actively participating in unaccounted production and commission payments supported by facilitators supplying duplicate holograms and collecting cash the probe agency said Nine key figures have been arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act including Anil Tuteja Arvind Singh Trilok Singh Dhillon Anwar Dhebar Arun Pati Tripathi Kawasi Lakhma Chaitanya Baghel Saumya Chaurasia and Niranjan Das though some are presently on bail the agency said in a statement The agency has provisionally attached properties worth Rs 38232 crore covering over a thousand assets ranging from luxury hotels to extensive holdings linked to the involved families and entities it said The investigation continues to unravel the depth of this conspiracy that infiltrated the highest levels of administration and politics causing colossal losses to public revenue while enriching a select nexus of power and profit the agency said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/chhattisgarh-ed-files-supplementary-prosecution-complaint-nails-top-bureaucrats-and-politicians-in-liquor-scam-656323.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-assembly-opens-its-doors-for-crpf-jawans-their-families-656324.html New Delhi Dec 30 Interacting with visiting CRPF personnel Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta on Tuesday praised them for operating in some of the most challenging security environments forming the backbone of Indiaâs internal security During the meeting with jawans and officers of the 103rd Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force CRPF held in the presence of their families and children Gupta highlighted the forceâs vital contributions in countering militancy and insurgency addressing Left Wing ExtremismThe Speaker also appreciated their role in ensuring security during elections protecting vital installations and dignitaries and assisting civil authorities during emergencies and natural calamitiesHe also acknowledged the CRPFâs participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions underscoring Indiaâs commitment to global peace and stabilityDuring the interaction the Deputy Commandant Assistant Commandant and other officers of the 103rd Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force were also presentGupta specially acknowledged the service of CRPF personnel who have previously served in challenging regions such as Jammu and Kashmir Dantewada Sukma Bijapur and other sensitive areas commending their dedication courage and professionalism while operating under demanding conditionsGupta highlighted the historic significance of the Delhi Vidhan Sabha noting that the institution dates back to 1911 when the Third Delhi Durbar marked King George Vs announcement of the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to DelhiHe noted that the Assembly has evolved over 113 years with early nationalist leaders such as Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Lala Lajpat Rai raising Indian concerns in legislative forums during the colonial periodRecalling the impact of the Rowlatt Act the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919 and Indiaâs substantial contribution during the First World War the Speaker noted that the Central Hall of the Assembly has hosted several defining moments including the first convocation of Delhi University in 1923 and the passage of significant legislation in 1925He stated that although legislative proceedings shifted after the completion of the new Parliament building in 1927 the Delhi Vidhan Sabha remains a living symbol of Indiaâs democratic heritage and constitutional journeyAs part of the programme the jawans and officers were given a guided tour of the Assembly House during which they were familiarised with its functioning traditions and parliamentary heritageThe families of the CRPF personnel also participated in the tour where they were acquainted with the 113yearold legislative heritage of the Delhi Vidhan Sabha and its role in Indiaâs constitutional and democratic journeyOn the occasion the Speaker also presented a Coffee Table Book titled âDelhi Legislative Assembly presents ShatabdiYatra Veer Vithalbhai Patelâ as a mementoDescribing the publication as a significant historical document he said the book chronicles Indiaâs parliamentary journey from 1925 to 2025 capturing a century of legislative evolution and democratic transformation through rare archival photographs historic documents and defining moments of parliamentary historyThe Speaker noted that Vice President CP Radhakrishnan inaugurated the Coffee Table Book which was also presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscoring its national significance and paying tribute to the enduring legacy of Veer Vithalbhai Patel whose leadership laid the foundation of Indiaâs modern parliamentary traditions IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-assembly-opens-its-doors-for-crpf-jawans-their-families-656324.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-drug-cases-up-by-over-30-pc-during-2025-656326.html Hyderabad Dec 30 Drug cases in Telangana increased by 3036 per cent during 2025 though the overall crime rate in the state dipped by 233 per cent A total of 2542 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances NDPS Act were registered during 2025 The state had reported 1950 cases during the previous yearElite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement EAGLE the new name given in June to the Telangana AntiNarcotic Bureau seized drugs worth Rs 17293 crores during 2025Director General of Police B Shivadhar Reddy on Tuesday released the annual report of Telangana policeThe police chief revealed that 20 foreign nationals were arrested in NDPS cases A total of 76 foreign nationals were deported during the yearEAGLE Force conducted major interstate operations in Goa Delhi Maharashtra Ranchi and other states Joint operations with NCB and Delhi Police busted Nigerian drug cartels froze 107 bank accounts and dismantled nationwide networksOperation âKalthi Kalluâ against adulterated toddy using Alprazolam Multidepartmental coordination led to seizures worth Rs 4298 Crores and closure of clandestine factories in Telangana and MaharashtraDuring 2025 6 illegal drug manufacturing units were busted In total 12 clandestine factories have been dismantled so far with the coordination of the State and Central agenciesThe report shows that 26988 kg of drugs were disposed of in 2337 cases while properties worth Rs 4147 crores were forfeited under the NDPS Act There was a strong emphasis on financial investigation to break drug syndicatesThe police secured 81 convictions in NDPS cases during 2025 with sentences ranging from 6 months to 20 years imprisonmentThe Hyderabad Narcotics Enforcement Wing HNEW was recognised as the worldâs first specialised unit in drug control at the prestigious World Police Summit2025 held in Dubai in recognition of its outstanding efforts in combating narcoticsEAGLE Force conducted 571 awareness programmes while district police organised 1472 programmes by district police As many as 1405 AntiDrug Committees were formed in colleges and 20989 Prahari Clubs in schools A total of 47881 volunteers AntiDrug Soldiers were enrolledOverall crime scene the report shows that a total of 228695 cases were reported during 2025 as compared to 234158 cases in 2024 a decrease of 233 per centCrimes like murders rapes murders for gains robberies kidnapping and abductions declined cases of criminal breach of trust counterfeiting and drugs saw a jumpThe DGP stated that law and order was maintained well in the State with effective checks on violent crimes activities of Maoist communal and terror outfitsThe cybercrime reduced by three per cent in Telangana against a 41 per cent increase nationally Financial losses reduced by 21 per cent from Rs 175311 crore to Rs 137834 crore outperforming the national reduction of six per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-drug-cases-up-by-over-30-pc-during-2025-656326.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-highway-network-crosses-146-lakh-km-to-become-2nd-largest-in-world-656327.html New Delhi Dec 30 Indiaâs road network has expanded at a rapid pace in the last 11 years to become the worldâs secondlargest with national highways spanning across a length of 146560 km in the country it was announced on Tuesday The Government has strengthened the National Highways network through flagship programmes such as Bharatmala Pariyojana including the subsumed NHDP SARDPNE LWE Road Development Programme including the VijayawadaâRanchi Road and Externally Aided ProjectsThe National Highway network has recorded a growth of about 61 per cent expanding from 91287 km in 2014 to 146560 km in 2025 according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways MoRTHThe length of operational accesscontrolled HighSpeed Corridors and Expressways increased from a mere 93 km in 2014 to 3052 km at the end of this yearThe length of 4lane and above National Highways including accesscontrolled corridors has more than doubled from 18371 km in 2014 to 43512 km at presentMoRTH cumulatively monetised Rs 152028 crore through various modes of asset monetisation till November 2025 and has fixed a Rs 30000 crore target for FY 202526To enhance private participation Model Concession Agreements MCAs have been updated Buildoperatetransfer BOT system has is revamped for the first time since 200708To widen the investment base MoRTH plans to introduce the Public InvIT â Raajmarg InvIT for which SEBI clearance is under process with issuance date scheduled for January 2026 according to the official statementIn line with Union Budget 202526 MoRTH has identified a PPP project pipeline of 13400 km with an estimated cost of Rs 83 lakh crore to be developed over the next three yearsA network of 35 Multimodal Logistics Parks have been planned under Bharatmala Pariyojana with an investment of about Rs 46000 crore capable of handling around 700 million metric tonnes of cargo once it becomes operationalTo improve user comfort and convenience the Ministry plans stateoftheart wayside amenities WSAs at intervals of 40â60 km along National Highways in PPP publicprivate partnership mode modeBesides under Parvatmala Pariyojana the Ministry envisages development of safe economical efficient and worldclass ropeway infrastructure to improve connectivity decongest urban areas and enhance lastmile logistics efficiency in hilly regionsAs part of the other major developments in 2025 the Prime Minister inaugurated the 12kmlong Sonamarg Tunnel in Jammu amp Kashmir constructed at a cost of over Rs 2700 crore and inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple road projects at Katra including the RafiabadâKupwara NH widening project worth over Rs 1952 croreLandmark Urban Decongestion Projects including the Dwarka Expressway and UERII were also Inaugurated in DelhiAs part of the clean energy drive the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways flagged off the firstever trials of hydrogenpowered heavyduty trucks launched by Tata Motors in New DelhiThe Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme 2025 was also notified on a panIndia basis providing treatment cover of up to Rs 15 lakh per victim at designated hospitals across the countryThe Ministry strengthened vehicle safety standards through mandatory High Security Registration Plates HSRP and advances provisions related to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems ADAS in new vehiclesMoRTH also operationalized 123 Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities across 21 StatesUTs and 160 Automated Testing Stations across 19 StatesUTs cumulatively 358 lakh vehicles are scrapped till November 2025Under the RahVeer Scheme the financial incentive for Good Samaritans was increased from Rs 5000 to Rs 25000 per incident with 10 nationallevel awards of Rs 1 lakh each instituted annuallyThe BhoomiRashi Portal was set up to enable endtoend digitisation of highway land acquisition with PFMSlinked direct compensation strengthening efficiency and transparencyThe Ministry also introduced a FASTagbased Annual Pass for noncommercial vehicles at Rs 3000 for 200 fee plaza crossings 3613 lakh passes are sold generating Rs 1084 crore in user fee collection till November 2025Besides the Government decided to implement barrierfree Electronic Toll Collection using Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras on select national highway stretches enabling seamless tolling alongside FASTag IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-highway-network-crosses-146-lakh-km-to-become-2nd-largest-in-world-656327.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-ntk-condemns-tiruttani-killing-slams-dmk-over-drug-menace-and-lawlessness-656328.html Chennai Dec 30 Naam Tamilar Katchi NTK chief coordinator Seeman on Tuesday strongly condemned the brutal killing of a migrant labourer in Tiruttani describing the incident as a shameful blot on Tamil society and a direct consequence of the State governmentâs failure to curb drug abuse and crime Seeman referred to the murder of Siraj a migrant worker from Odisha who was allegedly attacked and killed by four drugaddicted youths while travelling on a suburban train to Tiruttani He said the horrifying visuals of the assault reflected the dangerous extent to which narcotics had poisoned Tamil Naduâs youth under the âDravidian model of governanceââThe brutal killing of Siraj by intoxicated youths is not just a crime against an individual but a disgrace to the entire Tamil nation It exposes how deeply drugs have penetrated our society under the DMK governmentâ Seeman said He asserted that the unchecked spread of narcotics had turned Tamil Nadu into a hub of crime leading to a sharp rise in murders sexual assaults and violent attacksâThe governmentâs failure to control drug trafficking has destroyed social order The root cause of todayâs lawlessness is the unchecked sale of alcohol and narcoticsâ he said Seeman pointed out that crimes were being committed daily often by young people under the influence of alcohol or drugs âFamilies are being torn apart Even blood relatives are killing each other over trivial disputes This moral collapse is the result of statesponsored liquor salesâ he alleged The NTK leader also condemned violence against migrant workers stating that attacks on labourers who come to Tamil Nadu in search of livelihood were equally unacceptable âWhether it is migrants being attacked or local people being harmed every such incident is a stain on our societyâ he said Questioning the DMK governmentâs priorities Seeman asked why the ruling party which once opposed liquor sales during the previous AIADMK regime was now reluctant to implement prohibition âWhy does the government remain silent on the unchecked sale of ganja Is revenue from liquor more important than the lives of our peopleâ he asked He further questioned whether mere awareness videos could stop drug abuse warning that without decisive action more young lives would be destroyed âHow many more lives must be lost before this government actsâ he asked adding that the current situation had turned Tamil Nadu into a state gripped by fear and lawlessness Calling the situation âa moral and administrative failureâ Seeman demanded immediate steps to ban liquor and crack down on narcotics asserting that only then could peace and safety be restored in the State IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-ntk-condemns-tiruttani-killing-slams-dmk-over-drug-menace-and-lawlessness-656328.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/l-g-sinha-unveils-jampk-bank-wall-and-table-calendars-for-2026-656329.html Jammu Dec 30 JampK Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday unveiled the JampK Bank wall and table calendars for the year 2026 at the Lok Bhawan The Wall Calendar for 2026 is themed âRivers of JampK and Ladakhâ while the Table Calendar showcases the regionâs âHistoric Placesâ reflecting the diversity of human heritage and natural wonders of Jammu amp Kashmir and of LadakhThe Lieutenant Governor appreciated the JampK Bank for selecting unique themes which will raise awareness about preserving ancient monuments archaeological sites and traditions for future generationsHe said society must come together to safeguard these priceless treasures The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised protecting Earthâs vital ecosystemsHe said rivers in JampK are a source of fresh water and they are also ensuring food security and supporting biodiversity conservationThe Lieutenant Governor called for community efforts to protect rivers and water bodies to build resilience against climate impacts in the futureAmitava Chatterjee Managing Director and CEO Jammu amp Kashmir Bank Limited said that the 2026 edition of JampK Bankâs calendars honours the rivers that sustain life across the regions and the historic sites that define their shared legacyThe calendar also features important public welfare initiatives such as Mission YUVA and PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana alongside JampK Bankâs key products including Housing Loan Car Loan Personal Consumption Loan and Online Account Opening reinforcing the Bankâs role as a development partner and facilitator of peopleâs aspirations IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/l-g-sinha-unveils-jampk-bank-wall-and-table-calendars-for-2026-656329.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-asia-to-africa-and-beyond-nations-struggle-to-navigate-deadly-conflicts-656331.html New Delhi Dec 30 Conflicts and geopolitical turbulence in 2025 stretched from Southeast Asia South Asia and the Middle East to parts of Europe and Africa with peace remaining largely elusive These conflicts resulted in global instability and sparked a severe humanitarian crisis amid a rapidly evolving geopolitical security landscape Notwithstanding the peace initiatives several regions remained engulfed in violence Southeast Asia was on boil as tensions between Cambodia and Thailand intensified beginning with a confrontation in May near the Emerald Triangle where Thailand Cambodia and Laos converge resulting in the death of a Cambodian soldier In July the tensions heightened after both sides exchanged artillery fire and deployed heavy weapons at several locations along the border promoting largescale civilian evacuationsAlthough a ceasefire in July briefly eased tensions it collapsed in early December triggering renewed clashes On December 27 normalcy returned after a new peace deal was signed between Thai Defence Minister Natthapon Nakpanich and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Tea Seiha at a border checkpoint in Thailands Chanthaburi ProvinceIn South Asia Pakistan and Afghanistan remain engaged in heavy fighting in recent months with Islamabad conducting multiple air raids inside Afghanistan Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of fostering TehreekiTaliban Pakistan TTP an allegation outrightly rejected by Kabul The Taliban has repeatedly criticised Pakistans attacks describing them as violations of Afghanistans sovereigntyAdditionally Pakistani authorities escalated repression on Afghan refugees with millions reportedly forcibly deported from Pakistan until the end of the year leading to widespread humanitarian crisis in relentless winter According to reports several Afghan refugees in Pakistan stated that they had been continuously harassed by Pakistani police which apart from conducting searches were arresting people and exploiting their vulnerable situationOn another front within Pakistan unrest in Balochistan province reached its peak against the backdrop of severe human rights abuses including extrajudicial killing enforced disappearances and torture of Baloch civilians at the hands of Pakistani security forcesAdditionally the clashes between Pakistani forces and rebel groups also escalated resulting in the death of several Pakistani soldiers People in the Balochistan region are currently fighting for their freedom from Pakistan Several global human rights groups have highlighted the repression by Pakistani armed forces in the province which includes brutal raids on the homes of Baloch leaders and civilians unlawful arrests enforced disappearances the kill and dump policy detention under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance and the filing of fabricated police casesIn recent months several international human rights organisations have also raised concerns over an alarming rise in cases of enforced disappearances by Pakistani security forces targetting women and young girlsThe South Asian region remained volatile as violence and human rights abuses continued unabated in Bangladesh since the Muhammad Yunusled interim government assumed power in August 2024 following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh HasinaThe year witnessed a massive surge in attacks across Bangladesh targetting minorities particularly the Hindu community In one such brutal incident on December 18 a 25yearold Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das was lynched by a mob over false blasphemy accusations The mob killed Das hung his body from a tree before setting it on fire Within span of a week another Hindu youth 29yearold Amrit Mondal was also lynched by a mob in the Hossaindanga area of Kalimohar UnionSince the Bangladesh Election Commission announced that the countrys 13th national parliamentary election along with a referendum on the July Charter will be held on February 12 next year the country has been gripped by widespread violence Following the killing of the extremist leader Sharif Osman Hadi his supporters went on a rampage targetting minorities Indian diplomatic missions cultural institutions and media houses with impunityHaving remained conflicttorn for many years the situation worsened in the Middle Eastern region with the outbreak of a direct and armed IsraelIran confrontation Israel on June 13 launched Operation Rising Lion against Iran a targetted military operation to negate the Iranian threat of nuclear weapons to Israels very survival As tensions escalated both sides targetted each others strategic locations Later the US joined the conflict and bombed three highly fortified nuclear sites in Iran which included Fordow Natanz and Esfahan nuclear facilities and warned Tehran of further precision strikes unless it ended its confrontation with Israel After 12 days of armed hostilities US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel bringing the conflict to an endIn Europe the unending conflict between Russia and Ukraine remained a major global flashpoint this year Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022 which triggered a fullscale war between the two countries entered its third year in 2025 Despite the diplomatic initiatives and peace proposals several phases of offensives and counteroffensives by both sides failed to produce a breakthrough Recent developments include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealing details of the latest USled 20point plan aimed at ending the conflict though Moscow is reportedly not satisfied with several of its provisionsParts of Africa too saw a surge in violence due to longstanding conflicts which have resulted in a severe humanitarian crisisIn civil wartorn Sudan armed clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces SAF and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces RSF have plunged the nation into a deeper crisis and severe suffering The struggle for supremacy between the two forces began in April 2023 and transformed into an armed conflict that has not only claimed thousands of innocent lives but also destroyed communities and uprooted millions from their homesIn the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo armed conflict between Rwandabacked M23 rebels and Congolese troops escalated in 2025 It resulted in the death of hundreds and the displacement of millions A peace deal between DR Congo and Rwanda was signed at the intervention of the United States but the bloodshed refuses to endThe surge in conflicts this year has not only challenged the current global order but has also kept instability looming As the world prepares to enter 2026 hope for peace remains in the midst of many unresolved conflicts IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ians-year-ender-2025-asia-to-africa-and-beyond-nations-struggle-to-navigate-deadly-conflicts-656331.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-cik-cracks-down-on-digital-propaganda-ring-656332.html Srinagar Dec 30 The CounterIntelligence Wing Kashmir CIK on Tuesday cracked down on the digital propaganda ring as the NIA court declared the accused as absconding A CIK statement claimed that in a decisive action against antinational propaganda and secessionist misinformation the CIK has tightened the noose around a digital network involved in spreading destabilising content across social media platformsâThe Special Judge designated under the NIA Act in Srinagar has proclaimed under Section 82 of the Code of Criminal Procedure CrPC against the accused persons in FIR No 072020 registered by CIKâ it saidIt said that the case involves serious offences under Sections 153A and 505 of the IPC along with Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act UAPAâThe FIR was lodged following credible intelligence inputs indicating a coordinated conspiracy by antinational and antisocial elements operating at the behest of secessionist forces within and outside the Kashmir Valleyâ it saidThe CIK added that the investigations revealed that the accused were posing as journalists freelancers and news portals while systematically misusing social media platforms such as Facebook X and WhatsAppâThese platforms were allegedly used to circulate fake exaggerated and misleading narratives aimed at inciting street violence disturbing public order damaging public property and fostering disaffection against the Union of Indiaâ it addedThe CIK further pointed out that the accused were actively disseminating content prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India with the intent to fuel unrest and advance a secessionist agendaâFollowing the issuance of arrest warrants all three went underground and are currently abscondingâ it saidTaking serious note of their deliberate evasion of the law the CIK said that the Special NIA Court has directed the accused to appear before it on or before January 31 2026 âThe court has warned that failure to comply will invite proceedings under Section 83 CrPC including attachment of propertyâ it saidThe CIK said that despite being declared absconders the accused are continuing their activities on social media persisting with hostile and provocative propaganda aimed at destabilising peace in Jammu and KashmirâCounter Intelligence Kashmir has reiterated its firm resolve to act against antinational propaganda digital subversion and misuse of social media warning that such activities will be dealt with strictly in accordance with lawâ it said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-cik-cracks-down-on-digital-propaganda-ring-656332.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-govt-tightens-security-ahead-of-new-year-celebrations-656333.html Patna Dec 30 The Bihar government and state police will maintain strict vigilance against anyone attempting to disrupt the law and order in the state during the New Year celebrations Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit chaired a highlevel review meeting on Tuesday with all District Magistrates DMs and Superintendents of Police SPs to ensure a peaceful and secure environment across the stateThe meeting was conducted via video conferencing and focused primarily on maintaining effective law and order on December 31 and January 1 2026Addressing the officials the Chief Secretary issued clear instructions for the strict enforcement of law and order during the festive periodHe directed district administrations to maintain special vigilance at crowded areas public places markets major intersections parks and picnic spotsImmediate and effective action must be taken in case of any untoward incident disturbance or dispute Chief Secretary Amrit saidTo further strengthen security arrangements Chief Secretary Amrit instructed that CCTV cameras be installed at all sensitive and identified locations and that the functionality of existing cameras be regularly monitoredIn view of the prevailing cold wave he also directed district authorities to make adequate arrangements for bonfires for people in needEmphasising the importance of health services Chief Secretary Amrit instructed officials to inspect hospitals to ensure the availability of blankets for patients and the timely presence of medical staffAdequate police deployment was also ordered at tourist spots and public gathering areas to avoid any security lapsesDuring the meeting Bihar Director General of Police DGP Vinay Kumar also said that alcohol and drug consumption tends to increase among youth during the New Year celebrations which could affect law and order in the stateThe police were directed to conduct regular raids wherever information regarding illegal liquor or drugs is received and to take strict action against offenders DGP Kumar addedThe DGP also directed that adequate police force be deployed at pilgrimage sites due to the expected increase in devoteesSenior police officers were directed to brief and debrief their subordinates properly to ensure clarity of duties and responsibilitiesSpecial emphasis was laid on monitoring biker gangs which often become active during such occasionsThe CCTV surveillance in streets intersections and sensitive areas was highlighted as a key preventive measureAdditionally instructions were issued to launch deaddiction awareness campaigns at the block district school and institutional levels to encourage public cooperationIntensive checking and frisking operations were ordered in border areas to prevent the smuggling of drugs and illegal weapons and immediate questioning of suspicious individuals was mandatedThe meeting was attended by Development Commissioner Mihir Kumar Singh Additional Director General Law and Order Pankaj Darad and other senior officialsIt was concluded that with coordinated efforts across all districts peace security and law and order will be effectively maintained in Bihar during the New Year celebrations IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-govt-tightens-security-ahead-of-new-year-celebrations-656333.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-attaches-rs-338-crore-properties-in-da-case-against-madhya-pradesh-rto-officer-656334.html Bhopal Dec 30 The Enforcement Directorate ED Bhopal Zonal Office has provisionally attached immovable properties worth approximately Rs 338 crore belonging to Santosh Paul Regional Transport Officer RTO and his wife Rekha Paul senior clerk in the Transport Department of Madhya Pradesh government The attachment has been carried out under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA 2002 the investigating agency said in a statement on Tuesday The ED launched its investigation following an FIR registered by the Economic Offences Wing EOW Bhopal against Santosh Paul under Sections 131b and 132 of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988 as amended in 2018 The FIR alleged that the public servant had accumulated assets disproportionate to his known sources of income it said Detailed probes by the ED established that during the check period Santosh Paul and Rekha Paul had a verified lawful income of only Rs 7326 lakh However the couple acquired movable and immovable assets and incurred expenditures totalling around Rs 480 crore This created a glaring discrepancy resulting in disproportionate assets valued at approximately Rs 406 crore the agency further said in the statement Further investigation revealed suspicious financial patterns including structured and repeated cash deposits into their bank accounts immediately prior to loan EMI payments These transactions indicate deliberate attempts to place and integrate unaccounted cash into the formal banking system a classic method of laundering illicit proceeds it said The provisionally attached properties identified as Proceeds of Crime comprise residential houses residential plots agricultural lands and commercial shops all located in Jabalpur district The action highlights the EDs ongoing efforts to curb corruption among public servants and recover assets acquired through illegal means By attaching these properties the agency has effectively frozen assets suspected to have been built from corrupt practices in the states Transport Department The investigation remains in progress with the ED likely to explore deeper financial trails and potential involvement of other individuals Such cases of disproportionate assets continue to expose systemic vulnerabilities in public administration eroding public trust and diverting resources meant for development IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-attaches-rs-338-crore-properties-in-da-case-against-madhya-pradesh-rto-officer-656334.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/south-central-railway-urges-people-not-to-fly-kites-near-railway-traction-lines-656336.html Hyderabad Dec 30 South Central Railway has appealed to people to avoid flying kites near railway traction lines during the upcoming Sankranti festival The South Central Railway SCR observed with serious concern that several incidents of electrocution have occurred due to kite flying in the vicinity of railway premises including yards tracks and nearby civil localitiesDuring the previous Sankranti festival season multiple cases were reported across various zones of Indian Railways wherein individuals suffered severe electric shocks or fatal injuries after coming into contact with kite threads entangled with 25 kV Overhead Electric Traction OHE linesâUse of Chineseimported kite threads which are often metallic or chemically treated and act as conductors of electricity When such threads come in contact with live overhead traction equipment they pose a grave threat not only to human life but also to critical railway electrical infrastructure potentially leading to service disruptions and safety hazards for passengers and Railway staffâ the SCR said in a statementIt earnestly appealed to the public to extend their full cooperation by strictly avoiding kite flying near railway tracks stations yards and other Railway installationsThe overhead traction lines carry highvoltage electricity and even indirect contact through kite threads can result in fatal accidents South Central Railway urges everyone to celebrate festivals responsibly and help ensure the safety of lives and uninterrupted train operation it addedMeanwhile a food delivery boy sustained a serious injury after he got entangled in Chinese manja in Hyderabadâs Old CityThe incident occurred in the Shamsheergunj area on Monday Jameel a resident of Nawab Sahab Kunta was riding towards Shahalibanda when the banned Chinese manja reportedly fell and wrapped around his neck causing a deep cut He was shifted to a private hospital where he is undergoing treatment Police said he received 22 sutures for the injuryFollowing the incident Khairatabad MLA Danam Nagender announced a reward of Rs 5000 for information leading to the detection of the sale of banned Chinese manjaPolice in Hyderabad have intensified their drive against those selling or using the prohibited string IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/south-central-railway-urges-people-not-to-fly-kites-near-railway-traction-lines-656336.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/illegal-betting-case-bengaluru-court-grants-bail-to-congress-mla-veerendra-656338.html Bengaluru Dec 30 The Special Court for MLAsMPs in Bengaluru on Tuesday granted bail to Congress MLA KC Veerendra aka Veerendra Pappi in connection with illegal betting case MLA Veerendra was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate ED under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA He was imprisoned at the Bengaluru Central Jail for four months Veerendra represents Challakere Assembly constituency in Chitradurga districtMLA Veerendra was nabbed on August 23 in Gangtok where he had gone with his associates in connection with leasing land for running a casinoEarlier R D Chaitra wife of MLA Veerendra had filed a Writ Petition in the High Court of Karnataka on several grounds to declare his arrest by ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA 2002 as illegal arbitrary and violative of fundamental rightsHowever the High Court had upheld the arrest of KC Veerendra by ED and dismissed the Writ PetitionThe ED sleuths had recovered Rs 21 crore in cash and a large quantity of other valuables from Veerendras residence in KarnatakaThe ED stated The arrest of MLA Veerendra follows raids at 31 locations on August 22 23 in 2025 at 31 locations across India including Gangtok Chitradurga Bengaluru city Hubballi Jodhpur Mumbai and Goa The accused MLA Veerendra is running several online betting sites in the name of king567 Raja567 among othersThe ED had stated that accused MLAs brother KC Thippeswamy is operating three business entities from DubaiThe investigation into the illegal betting scam by the ED has revealed that Karnataka Congress MLA K C Veerendra and his associates collected over Rs 2000 crore through a single gateway from websites in a short span The ED had uncovered Rs 2000 crore transactions and seized hundreds of crores worth gold bars and cash from his residence and offices so far across the countryThe Karnataka BJP had alleged that accused Congress MLA Veerendra had sent more than Rs 300 crore funding for the upcoming Bihar electionsThe Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka had stated MLA Veerendra had sent gold bars and more than Rs 300 crore for Bihar elections Karnataka has become ATM for the Congress They calculate how much money each MLA gives and allocate positions accordingly IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/illegal-betting-case-bengaluru-court-grants-bail-to-congress-mla-veerendra-656338.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-4-kg-heroin-seized-seven-held-656339.html Chandigarh Dec 30 In a breakthrough Amritsar Commissionerate Police has busted a crossborder drug smuggling cartel with links to Pakistanbased handlers with the arrest of seven accused and recovered 4075 kg heroin one kg methamphetamine commonly known as ICE and one 9mm Glock pistol from their possession said Director General of Police DGP Gaurav Yadav on Tuesday Those arrested have been identified as Judgebir Singh alias Judge 21 of Jasraur village in Amritsar Jaspal Singh alias Jass 22 of Ajnala in Amritsar Anmolpreet Singh 19 of Lopa village in Gurdaspur Harpinder Singh alias Bhinda 32 of Sandalpur village in Gurdaspur Tarunpreet Singh 20 of Sandalpur village in Gurdaspur Dawinder Singh alias Bau 33 of Bua Nangli village in Amritsar and Mandeep Singh 24 of Bua Nangli village in Amritsar DGP Yadav said preliminary investigation has revealed that the contraband was smuggled from Pakistan and distributed across the state through local modules guided via social media Further investigation is underway to trace forward and backward linkages in this case he said Sharing operational details Commissioner of Police Amritsar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that acting on specific and credible intelligence inputs police teams first apprehended Judgebir Singh and recovered 225 grams of heroin from his possession Sustained interrogation and technical analysis of digital communication led investigators further up the supply chain resulting in the arrest of his associate Jaspal Singh from whom 16 kg of heroin was recovered Continuing the operation and acting on disclosures police teams further apprehended Anmolpreet Singh Harpinder Singh and Tarunpreet Singh leading to the recovery of an additional 22 kg heroin from their possession he said adding the probe has revealed that these accused were acting as couriers and distributors operating on the explicit instructions of Pakistanbased handlers who coordinated narcotic drops and circulation across districts During the operation Bhullar said another arm of the network was exposed when the police during routine patrolling apprehended Dawinder and Mandeep Singh along with a 9MM Glock pistol and a motorcycle Intensive interrogation of the accused led to the recovery of one kg ICE from their possession he said Bhullar said that background checks further exposed the criminal antecedents of the arrested accused Judgebir is previously involved in an attempt to murder case while Jaspal Singh is facing prosecution under the Arms Act and Dawinder Singh has been facing two cases under the NDPS Act During the investigation accused Dawinder had returned to India one and a half years ago after residing in Dubai for nearly 10 years during which he developed contacts with international drug smugglers he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-4-kg-heroin-seized-seven-held-656339.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/viksit-bharat-has-turned-into-a-mass-aspiration-pm-modi-656343.html New Delhi Dec 30 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that the vision of a Viksit Bharat Developed India by 2047 has transcended government policy to become a genuine mass aspiration Addressing a group of eminent economists and experts at NITI Aayog PM Modi said that this shift is evident in the evolving patterns of education consumption and global mobility necessitating enhanced institutional capacity and proactive infrastructure planning to meet the needs of an increasingly aspirational societyThe Prime Minister called for missionmode reforms across diverse sectors to sustain longterm growth He stressed that Indiaâs policymaking and budgeting must remain anchored with the vision for 2047 He also spoke about the need to ensure that the nation remains a vital hub for the global workforce and international marketsThe Theme of the interaction was âAatmanirbharta and Structural Transformation Agenda for Viksit BharatâDuring the interaction the economists shared strategic insights on enhancing productivity and competitiveness across the manufacturing and services sectors The discussions focused on accelerating structural transformation through increased household savings robust infrastructure development and the adoption of cuttingedge technology The group explored the role of Artificial Intelligence AI as an enabler of crosssectoral productivity and also discussed the continued scaling of Indiaâs Digital Public Infrastructure DPI according to an official statementThe participants noted that the unprecedented flurry of crosssectoral reforms in 2025 and their further consolidation in the coming year will ensure that India continues to chart its path as one of the fastestgrowing global economies by strengthening its foundations and unlocking newer opportunitiesSeveral renowned economists and experts were part of the discussion including Shankar Acharya Ashok K Bhattacharya N R Bhanumurthy Amita Batra Janmejaya Sinha Amit Chandra Rajani Sinha Dinesh Kanabar Basanta Pradhan Madan Sabnavis Ashima Goyal Dharmakirti Joshi Umakant Dash Pinaki Chakraborty Indranil Sen Gupta Samiran Chakraborty Abhiman Das Rahul Bajoria Monika Halan and Siddhartha Sanyal IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/viksit-bharat-has-turned-into-a-mass-aspiration-pm-modi-656343.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-cm-hands-over-jobs-to-1-543-youths-reiterates-zero-tolerance-for-corruption-656345.html Bhubaneswar Dec 30 Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday distributed appointment letters to 1543 candidates across 11 government departments during the 14th edition of the âNijukti Melaâ Speaking at the event the Chief Minister said that while a government job ensures financial security for families it also brings greater responsibility towards serving the people of OdishaEmphasisng the governmentâs commitment to employment generation CM Majhi said the state has organised 14 job fairs in the last 18 months facilitating 39459 appointments so far Tuesdayâs event was the fifthlargest in the seriesâToday you and your families are happy because you have secured your future But with this job comes a new responsibility You are not just doing government work you are working for the people of this stateâ the Chief Minister said while addressing the new recruitsCM Majhi also asked the new appointees to stay away from corrupt practices highlighting the state governmentâs zero tolerance towards corruptionReferring to the recovery of huge amounts of disproportionate assets during vigilance raids at the residences of government officials in the state he advised the newly appointed employees to avoid humiliation by not getting involved in corrupt practices that could lead to exposure in electronic and print mediaThe Chief Minister also outlined the stateâs development roadmap reiterating that Odisha is progressing towards âSamrudha Odishaâ Prosperous Odisha by 2036 coinciding with the stateâs centenary year He added that the vision aligns with the national target of achieving âViksit Bharatâ Developed India by 2047 under Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs leadershipProviding recruitment targets Majhi said the government aims to fill 150000 vacancies in five years including 65000 posts by June 2026 Nearly 40000 positions have already been filled in the last one year and a half he added Wishing the appointees success the Chief Minister urged them to discharge their duties with sincerity and contribute to Odishaâs growth story IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-cm-hands-over-jobs-to-1-543-youths-reiterates-zero-tolerance-for-corruption-656345.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rabri-devi-bungalow-row-rjd-questions-jdu-leaders-over-occupation-of-govt-residences-656346.html Patna Dec 30 The political controversy surrounding the eviction of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi from her official residence at 10 Circular Road Patna continues to intensify in Bihar While the JDU BJP and other NDA allies have been targeting the Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD and the Lalu Prasad family over the issue the RJD has now countered by raising serious questions about the alleged misuse of government bungalows by ruling party leadersThe Bihar governmentâs Building Construction Department has formally issued an order directing Rabri Deviâcurrently the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Legislative Councilâto vacate the government bungalow at 10 Circular RoadShe has been allotted an alternative government residence in its placeFollowing this NDA leaders have made various allegations against the RJD regarding the prolonged occupation of government propertyIn response the RJD has accused JDU National Working President and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Jha and JDU MP Devesh Chandra Thakur of illegally occupying government bungalows in Bihar despite being allotted official residences in New DelhiRJD National Spokesperson Nawal Kishore Yadav has written a letter to the Building Construction Department seeking clarification on the rules under which these two MPs continue to occupy Bihar government residencesIn the letter he stated that both Sanjay Jha and Devesh Chandra Thakur were earlier allotted bungalows from the Bihar Central Pool due to their positions as ministers or chairpersonsHowever despite subsequently receiving official accommodations in Delhi they have allegedly continued to occupy the Bihar residencesThe letter questions why the department has not clarified the current status of these bungalows and under which rules the MPs are allowed to retain themIt further asks whether they are paying ten times the prescribed rent as mandated under government norms or whether they are occupying the properties by exerting political influenceRaising sharp questions the RJD spokesperson asked why the two MPs remain attached to these bungalows and even made a pointed remark questioning whether there is any secret chamber inside the premises that they are attempting to protect or useThe letter also raises concerns regarding Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi questioning in what capacity he is residing in a bungalow from the Patna Central PoolIt further asks whether such a bungalow can be allotted to his daughterinlaw and whether seniority or protocol permits such an arrangementThe RJD has demanded that the Building Construction Department clarify the complete factual position specify by what date the bungalows will be vacated and disclose the additional rent recovered from the occupants for extended useThe party has urged the department to take the matter seriously and respond transparently IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rabri-devi-bungalow-row-rjd-questions-jdu-leaders-over-occupation-of-govt-residences-656346.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-bmc-elections-set-to-be-a-multi-cornered-contest-656347.html Mumbai Dec 30 The BMC elections scheduled for January 15 will be a multicornered battle as the contest is no longer between two major alliances but has fractured into five power centres The BJP and Shiv Sena MahaYuti alliance comprising their allies will be a dominant alliance with a resolve to unfurl saffron flag atop BMC with the Mahayuti mayor BJP is contesting 137 seats leaving 90 seats to Shiv Sena Further the BJP proposes to flag off its development agenda while appealing to the voters to vote for a tripleengine government in BMC to further push the cityâs growthOn the other hand Shiv Sena plans to eat into the traditional votes of Marathi Manoos with a resolve to prove that they are the ârealâ Shiv Sena which is following the ideology of party founder Balasaheb ThackerayInterestingly BJPâs ally the Republican Party of India A led by Ramdas Athawale has entered into the fray alleging it was denied respectable seats during the seatsharing arrangementShiv Sena UBT and MNS have allied to consolidate the Marathi Manoos vote focusing on emotional heritage and local pride This is a reunion of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray after almost 20 years Both cousins will cash in on Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackerayâs legacy and plan to checkmate the BJP exposing its plan to isolate Mumbai from MaharashtraBreaking away from the Maha Vikas Aghadi MVA Congress is contesting independently in a strategic alliance with Prakash Ambedkarâs Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi VBA to target Dalit Muslim and North Indian votesDespite being in the statelevel Mahayuti Ajit Pawarâs NCP is going solo after it did not find a place in the BJPled coalitionAAP and the Samajwadi Party will be the new disrupters targeting a specific pocket AAP on Delhistyle civic transparency and SP in minorityheavy wards like Govandi and Mankhurd Traditionally the undivided Shiv Sena held a monopoly over the Marathi vote Now that vote is split three ways comprising Eknath Shinde State Power Uddhav Legacy and Raj Thackeray Linguistic IdentityAgainst this backdrop the BJP hopes to get mileage with their core voter base comprising North Indians Gujaratis and the cosmopolitan elite which remains largely consolidated while the Marathi vote is cannibalised by the three SenaMNS factionsParties like the VBA and AAP may not win many seats but by pulling 2000â3000 votes in a ward they can effectively spoil the chances of the frontrunners leading to unexpected dark horse winnersBy contesting independently Congress risks losing its relevance in Mumbai if it fails to cross its 2017 mark of 31 seats However they believe that staying with the Sena UBTMNS alliance would have alienated their Muslim and North Indian supporters due to the MNSs sonsofthesoil rhetoric This makes them a wild card in the suburbsHowever Congress insiders claimed that by joining hands with Prakash Ambedkarâs VBA they are attempting to rebuild a coalition of Dalits and Muslims that was once their strongholdFor the BJP the BMC elections are an opportunity to prove they are the dominant force in Mumbai For both Sena factions it is an existential battle for the Bow and Arrow legacy For Mumbaikars the multicornered contest means a wider variety of choices but a higher likelihood of a fractured mandateSanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjayjiansin IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-bmc-elections-set-to-be-a-multi-cornered-contest-656347.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/concerns-mount-with-chinas-wargames-around-taiwan-after-us-pledges-huge-arms-sale-656348.html New Delhi December 30 With Chinaâs ongoing wargames around Taiwan following the United Statesâ approval of its largestever arms sale to Taipei worth 111 billion the future of this part of the Pacific has attracted global attention and concern Calling Washingtonâs arms sales to Taiwan as serving merely as a cash machine for American arms dealers Chinaâs statecontrolled Peopleâs Daily media on Tuesday warned that it will offer no protective shield for the island US interests centre around the country being the global leader in semiconductor manufacturing but more so due to its strategic location Taiwan lies at the crossroads of Asia â off the eastern coast of China with South Korea to its north Japan to the northeast and the Philippines to the south The location is important since many shipping routes pass this wayGiven that onethird of global shipping passes annually through the South China Sea this has major implications for the US economy the National Security Strategy NSS of the United States of America observed Hence deterring a conflict over Taiwan ideally by preserving military overmatch is a priority We will also maintain our longstanding declaratory policy on Taiwan meaning that the United States does not support any unilateral change to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait added the document made public this month The Peopleâs Daily commentary on Tuesday reiterated Beijingâs stand Mentioning Washingtonâs recently pledged package of arms sales to Taiwan it said that the islands leader Taiwan President Lai Chingte has planned to continue spending massively on purchases of US arms in the coming eight years These facts have exposed the collusion between the US and the DPP to harm the interests of the people in Taiwan Detailing the Chinese Peoples Liberation Armyâs PLA series of drills around Taiwan codenamed Justice Mission 2025 the article cited dispatching troops from ground air naval and rocket forces to deter âTaiwan independenceâ separatist forces and external interference It asserted This sends an unequivocal message that Beijing at all times stands ready to crush any secession plot aiming to split Taiwan from the motherland Each escalation in provocation will be met with stronger countermeasures The PLA is ready to fight at any moment and is certain to prevail if and when it does fight The global community is watching with concern as tensions in the region mount to their highest in years China sees Taiwan as a âcore national interestâ tied to its national rejuvenation while the US views Taipei as a key partner for democracy security and global trade Beijingâs Justice Mission 2025 launched on Monday marks its largest war games in recent times simulating a blockade of Taiwanâs ports and practising strikes and counterstrikes Taiwanâs military has also conducted readiness drills warning that China aims to seize the island by 2027 While these drills are likely to disrupt sea and air traffic they simultaneously raised fears of conflict across East Asia Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and sees reunification as essential to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation by 2049 Taiwanâs independence is viewed as a direct challenge to Chinaâs sovereignty The island is located right at the heart of the âFirst Island Chainâ which is critical for both the worldâs largest economies access to the Pacific The First Island Chain is a string of Pacific archipelagos from the Kamchatka Peninsula through Japan the Ryukyu Islands Taiwan the northern Philippines and down to Borneo and the Malay Peninsula It serves as both a natural barrier and a platform for power projection anchoring Washingtonâs alliances and containing Beijingâs influence in the Western Pacific This was also mentioned in US NSS which added that it provides direct access to the Second Island Chain and splits Northeast and Southeast Asia into two distinct theaters Meanwhile regional players like Japan and the Philippines have also been drawn into the conflict with Japan Prime Minister Sanae Takaichiâs statement that any attack on Taiwan could trigger a military response from Tokyo while Manilaâs naval vessels have reportedly been spotted in these waters IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/concerns-mount-with-chinas-wargames-around-taiwan-after-us-pledges-huge-arms-sale-656348.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/spoke-about-kerala-govts-interference-in-karnataka-not-about-keralites-deputy-cm-shivakumar-656350.html Bengaluru Dec 30 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday clarified that his remarks were directed at the Kerala Chief Minister and the Kerala governmentâs interference in Karnatakaâs administration and not at the people of Kerala He alleged that BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar had twisted his statement to mislead the publicResponding to media queries at the Vidhana Soudha on Tuesday Shivakumar said âI only stated that the Kerala Chief Minister and the Kerala government should not interfere in the administration of the Karnataka government I did not speak about Keralites Rajeev Chandrasekhar is misrepresenting my statement and misleading peopleâAsked about Rajeev Chandrasekharâs comments he said âI share a good relationship with the people of Kerala They have great affection for me and I hold them in high regard I will be campaigning in Kerala during the elections and our government will come to power there That is why the BJP is trying to create confusion They should not indulge in such sour politics Leaders of our party give us advice and we accept itâSpeaking about a meeting held at the Vidhana Soudha Shivakumar said the board meetings of the Karnataka Neeravari Nigam and the Krishna Bhagya Jala Nigam were held on Tuesday âWe are taking up works worth around Rs 5000 crore in these corporations In the Krishna Bhagya Jala Nigam we have given priority to land acquisition for the Upper Krishna Project This will require funding of about Rs 70000 crore Other works will be taken up in the next phaseâ he saidWhen asked about his resolutions for the New Year 2026 Shivakumar said âOur goal is to keep everyone happy and provide good governance to the state Just as this year saw good rainfall we hope for good rains next year as well filling tanks and reservoirs and improving farmersâ lives Our guarantee schemes will continue and empower the people Local body elections will also be held next yearâAsked whether good governance would continue under his leadership in 2026 he said âGood governance will continue under the leadership of the Congress government This administration will continue for the next sevenandahalf yearsâResponding to a question about a statement by MLA Iqbal Hussain that he will become CM on January 6 or 9 Shivakumar said âPlease do not give importance to his remarksâWhen asked whether one could expect his leadership in 2026 he said âI will speak about that in 2026âIt can be recalled that demolition row issue gained traction after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan alleged that the Karnataka government was adopting a âbulldozer modelâ similar to Uttar Pradesh to evict Muslims in parts of BengaluruReacting strongly Shivakumar asked the Kerala Chief Minister not to interfere in Karnatakaâs internal affairs and dismissed the allegations as politically motivatedâWithout knowing the facts Mr Pinarayi should not interfere in our stateâs affairs These are political gimmicks ahead of electionsâ Shivakumar saidLater taking objection to the Congressled Karnataka governmentâs demolition drive against unauthorised constructions in Bengaluru the AICC on last Saturday raised concerns saying such actions should have been carried out with greater caution and sensitivityAICC General Secretary and Congress Lok Sabha member KC Venugopal made the remarks after speaking to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/spoke-about-kerala-govts-interference-in-karnataka-not-about-keralites-deputy-cm-shivakumar-656350.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/south-central-railway-to-expand-coverage-of-cctv-surveillance-system-656351.html Hyderabad Dec 30 South Central Railway General Manager Sanjay Kumar Srivastava on Tuesday held a detailed review meeting on the safety of train operations across the zone and advised Divisional Railway Managers to expand the coverage of the CCTV surveillance system Srivastava stated that the CCTV surveillance system will be effective and crucial in the prevention of miscreant activities He advised the DRMs to expand the coverage of the CCTV surveillance system to have comprehensive and extensive monitoring of the safety and security at all strategic locationsHe also advised the divisional officers that all the stabled coaches are locked properly and safety measures are to be observed at railway premises including station areas yards and sidingsThe meeting was held a day after two coaches of the TatanagarErnakulam Express caught fire at Yelamanchili railway station in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh A passenger died in the accidentThe meeting held at Rail Nilayam Secunderabad was attended by Satya Prakash Additional General Manager SCR and Principal Heads of Departments Divisional Railway Managers of all six divisions Secunderabad Hyderabad Vijayawada Guntur Guntakal and Nanded participated through video conferenceAccording to a statement from SCR the safety meeting emphasised the importance of human observance in every safety system or equipment The General Manager said that every safety system has some limitations and as humans we need to observe the correctness of the system That involvement keeps train operations safeHe stressed the need for timely communication to higher officials regarding any disruptions or unusual incidents during train operations or on the tracks The meeting also stressed winter preparedness and also on signal aspects and their workingThe General Manager advised to ensure the cleanliness of the coaches lighting and airconditioning to avoid complaints from the passengers and rail usersHe instructed officers and staff to conduct regular checks at level crossing gates etc He also reviewed on punctuality performance of trains across the zone He examined the divisionwise punctuality statistics and instructed the Divisional Railway Managers to identify and monitor the trains which have lost punctuality and take appropriate measures to improve their punctuality IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/south-central-railway-to-expand-coverage-of-cctv-surveillance-system-656351.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ndmc-to-hold-new-years-first-suvidha-camp-to-resolve-grievances-on-jan-3-656352.html New Delhi Dec 30 The New Delhi Municipal Council NDMC will organise the New Years first Suvidha Camp on January 3 2026 for improving service delivery and ensuring prompt grievance redressal an official said on Tuesday The camp will be held at the NDMC Convention Centre at Jai Singh Road near Palika Kendra in New Delhi from 1030 am to 1230 pmAn official added that the initiative forms a key component of NDMCs sustained citizen outreach programme aimed at strengthening direct engagement improving service delivery and ensuring prompt grievance redressalThe Suvidha Camp is designed as a singlewindow facilitation platform where residents and stakeholders can seek information submit requests and resolve issues related to a wide spectrum of municipal servicesResidents service users resident welfare associations market traders associations and NDMC employees both serving and retired are encouraged to participate and benefit from onthespot assistance an official statement saidDuring the camp citizens will be able to address matters pertaining to electricity services including new connections disconnections load enhancement or reduction and name changetransfer property tax birth and death certificatesServicerelated issues of NDMC employees waterlogging and sanitation waste disposal and road repairs pension schemes widow old age and disability as well as booking of Barat Ghars and public parks among other NDMC services will also be taken up at the campDedicated helpdesks manned by officials from various NDMC departments will be available to provide direct timebound and efficient assistance ensuring swift resolution of grievances and clarity on proceduresThe Suvidha Camp is held regularly on the first Saturday of every month at the NDMC Convention Centre reinforcing NDMCs commitment to transparent responsive and citizenfriendly governance the statement addedIn addition to physical Suvidha Camps NDMC has also introduced the Jan Suvidha Portal a digital and contactless grievance redressal platform that enables citizens to submit complaints online track their status and provide feedback on the quality of resolutionThe portal is accessible through the official NDMC website offering a convenient and accountable mechanism for service deliveryThe NDMC reaffirms its commitment to delivering efficient responsive and citizencentric services through both physical and digital platforms ensuring ease of access transparency and improved quality of life for all residents an official added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ndmc-to-hold-new-years-first-suvidha-camp-to-resolve-grievances-on-jan-3-656352.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/economic-reforms-in-2025-set-stage-for-indias-global-rise-economist-656353.html New Delhi Dec 30 Economist and former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India ICAI Ved Jain on Tuesday said that allowing 100 per cent foreign direct investment FDI in the insurance sector will prove to be a positive step for Indiaâs economy and consumers Speaking to IANS Jain said that in developed countries FDI in insurance has not created problems instead it has increased competition and improved servicesâWith 100 per cent foreign investment competition between local and foreign companies will naturally rise leading to cheaper insurance and services for peopleâ Jain saidâLower insurance costs will directly benefit consumers Additionally when logistic costs in insurance decrease competitiveness increases and the overall efficiency of the sector improves he addedHe also stressed the need to reform outdated colonialera laws Jain explained that many laws were created before 1947 to serve British interests when India was under colonial ruleEven after more than 75 years of independence several of these laws still exist He said there is a strong need to move away from such outdated rules especially those related to minor offences and complex proceduresAs a democratic and welfareoriented country Indiaâs laws should reflect the expectations of todayâs society and support citizens rather than burden themâNow over 75 years after independence there is a need to move away from these colonial rules and reform outdated laws especially those concerning minor offenses and procedural mattersâ Jain told IANSâTodayâs society expects this India is a democracy and we elect the government which functions as a social welfare institution Therefore laws must be aligned with this perspective he addedCommenting on recent economic measures Jain highlighted three key steps that would support the middle class and businessesHe said raising taxfree income to Rs 12 lakh and lowering tax rates for income between Rs 12 lakh and Rs 24 lakh will directly increase disposable income for the middle classâChanges in GST rates especially reductions from 12 per cent and 18 per cent to 5 per cent on certain goods will lower prices and improve purchasing powerâ Jain mentioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/economic-reforms-in-2025-set-stage-for-indias-global-rise-economist-656353.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjd-slams-odisha-govt-over-collapsed-paddy-procurement-656356.html Bhubaneswar Dec 30 Senior BJD leader and Deputy Leader of Opposition Prasanna Acharya on Tuesday hit out at the Odisha Government alleging that the paddy procurement system in the state has âcompletely collapsedâ pushing farmers into distress sale Addressing a press conference Acharya said that although the procurement season has begun most market yards across Odisha are yet to open and the administration is âunpreparedâ to purchase paddy from registered farmers âFarmers are in severe distress They are unable to sell their produce at the Minimum Support Price MSP In many places even input subsidies are not reaching themâ he allegedAcharya claimed that due to government apathy farmers are being forced to protest on the streets He cited comparative procurement figures stating that around 41 per cent of registered farmers in Chhattisgarh have already sold their paddy to the government while in Odisha the figure stands at only 8 per cent âThis shows the precarious condition in Odisha Farmers need money for the next crop Dalua cultivation but without procurement at MSP they are compelled to sell in distress at lower pricesâ he said The BJD leader further added that his party had raised the issue strongly during the last Assembly session but the government refused to listenâWe have no option left Along with the farmers we will take to the streets to fight for their rightsâ Acharya declared accusing the government of being indifferent to the crisis unfolding in rural OdishaAlthough paddy procurement has begun in 13 districts of the state the BJD alleged that the process has completely collapsed The senior leader alleged that the state government is busy patting itself on the back for paying an input subsidy of Rs 800 per quintal of paddy however this appears to be a joke and a betrayal of farmers in view of the ground reality of the paddy procurement situation Acharya further added that the paddy procurement target for Odisha has been set at 73 lakh metric tons while it is 80 lakh metric tons for Chhattisgarh despite the latter being a smaller stateHe criticised the state government for remaining silent on the issue and not demanding that the central government increase Odishas paddy procurement target IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjd-slams-odisha-govt-over-collapsed-paddy-procurement-656356.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-army-to-showcase-unique-animal-force-at-republic-day-parade-656357.html New Delhi Dec 30 The Indian Army while rapidly modernising with cuttingedge technology continues to strengthen its capabilities by blending tradition with innovation This unique approach will be on full display at the upcoming Republic Day parade where for the first time doublehumped Bactrian camels and Zanskari ponies will march along Kartavya Path symbolising resilience and adaptability in extreme terrainsThe Remount Veterinary Corps RVC contingent will be one of the main attractions of the parade The contingent will be led by a woman officer in which will add to the significance of the parade This will mark another milestone in the Indian Armyâs evolving leadership landscapeFor the first time doublehumped Bactrian camels will participate in the Republic Day parade These camels have been inducted into the Indian Army for lastmile logistics delivery and patrol duties in the cold desert of eastern Ladakh close to the Line of Actual Control LACOver the past two years Bactrian camels have proven to be invaluable in some of the harshest operational environments They can comfortably operate at altitudes ranging from 15000 to 18000 feet carry loads of 150â200 kilograms and function efficiently in temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees CelsiusApart from logistics they are also used for longrange patrols in terrain inaccessible to vehiclesIn the initial phase more than a dozen Bactrian camels have already been inducted into service During the parade two Bactrian camels will be seen marching on Kartavya Pathâpossibly the first time these animals will be seen in DelhiTraditionally found in Mongolia and Central Asia these camels are believed to have reached Ladakh centuries ago via the ancient Silk Route and are now bred in Hunder village of the Nubra ValleyAlongside the camels four Zanskari ponies mules will also march during the parade These ponies which are widely used by local communities in Ladakh have gradually been inducted into the Army over the last two years due to their âexceptional enduranceâThese ponies can carry over 70 kilograms of load operate smoothly at altitudes of up to 18000 feet and survive temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees CelsiusThe role of the ponies has been crucial in maintaining supply lines in remote and rugged areas Normally mechanised transport is not feasible in such areas so these animals are useful thereAccording to reports the DRDOâs Defence Institute of High Altitude Research DIHAR in Leh in collaboration with the Armyâs Remount Veterinary Corps conducted extensive research on both Bactrian camels and Zanskari ponies before formally inducting them into military serviceApart from this the RVC contingent will also showcase a unique blend of traditional and modern warfare capabilities To counter enemy drones trained eagles have been introduced as part of an innovative antidrone strategy These birds are capable of reconnaissance and can intercept small drones midair Four such eagles will be on display during the Republic Day paradeIn fact these eagles had been showcased for the first time during the IndiaâUS joint military exercise âYudh Abhyasâ in 2022 This exercise was held in Auli UttarakhandSimilarly the Army Dog Squad will also participate in the parade Around 10 military dogs including some Indian breeds will participate These breeds include Mudhol Hound Rampur Hound Chippiparai Kombai and Rajapalayam Three conventional foreign breeds will also be thereThis yearâs Republic Day parade will not only celebrate military might but also showcase sustainable and innovative methods that support soldiers in some of the worldâs toughest conditions IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-army-to-showcase-unique-animal-force-at-republic-day-parade-656357.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/shahbag-movement-leader-appeals-for-peace-return-of-sonar-bangla-in-bangladesh-656360.html Kolkata Dec 30 The persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh continues unabated An atmosphere of fear prevails and the killing of Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das has not brought the violence to an end in the South Asian countryAmid the helpless state of affairs in Bangladesh the Sanatani Sansad held a press conference at the Kolkata Press Club on Tuesday presenting instances of several Hindus who had taken refuge in India either on medical visas or through other means after fearing for their lives in the neighbouring countryAmong them was Bappaditya Basu a prominent face of the 2023 Shahbag movement in Bangladesh who had demanded for the restoration of Sonar Bangla golden BengalI have been living in hiding for the last fourteen months Ansarullah Bangla organisation had threatened to kill me I do not know whether I will see the sun tomorrow after speaking out today I came to this country on a medical visa But I and people like me who are currently in this country and this state want to return to our homeland Basu said at the press conferenceAt the same time Basu appealed that since Hindus like him have taken shelter here due to religious persecution the Central government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi should consider granting them citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act CAACalling upon the intellectual community of West Bengal to stand by them he said The situation in Bangladesh today is worse than during the 1971 Liberation War The current situation must end and peace should be established once again We want a Sonar BanglaBharatiya Janata Party BJP leader Shankudev Panda said The BJP stands with the persecuted Hindus of Bangladesh They must apply through Sanatani Sansad following the legal process for the demand of citizenshipThose present at the press conference were the organisations President Gobinda Das General Secretary and Journalist Raktim Das Professor Mohit Roy Advocate Joydeep Mukhopadhyay among others IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/shahbag-movement-leader-appeals-for-peace-return-of-sonar-bangla-in-bangladesh-656360.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/multiple-firearms-seized-from-two-places-in-kolkata-ahead-of-new-year-celebrations-656362.html Kolkata Dec 30 The Kolkata Polices Special Task Force STF on Tuesday recovered multiple firearms and arrested two persons in connection with it police said According to the police acting on a tipoff officers of STF detained two youths from the Strand Road in KolkataSeveral firearms were seized which were in the possession of the accused duo Following the recovery of firearms questions have been raised about the origin of these weapons and their intended destination Police have launched an investigation into the matter The two youths were later arrestedAccording to a senior Kolkata Police officer the two accused youths were carrying large bags After detaining the accused duo the police officers opened their bags which were filled with firearms following which they were subsequently arrested under the Arms ActThe recovered firearms include a singleshot pistol a 7mm pistol and improvised firearms Additionally 20 to 22 rounds of ammunition were recoveredMeanwhile another man has been arrested in connection with a similar incident in Alipore area in Kolkata The arrested individual has been identified as Rajesh Kumar Sau According to police sources the accused is an acquaintance of a Bharatiya Janata Party BJP leader Nearly 11 firearms have been recovered from him The police are questioning to find out more about the recovered firearmsIt may be noted that since Christmas the city of Kolkata has been under tight security Strict surveillance is being maintained especially in areas where large crowds gather to celebrate the festive seasonRecently several incidents of shootings have occurred in various parts of West Bengal Last month a shooting took place in Kasba area of Kolkata where a youth was left injured Earlier miscreants had fired gunshots in front of the house of Trinamool Congress Councillor Sushanta Kumar Ghosh in the same area of ââKasbaShootings are also frequently reported in various districts including Malda and Murshidabad Now with the recovery of these firearms in Kolkata just before the New Year celebrations questions have been raised about the availability of firearms in the city IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/multiple-firearms-seized-from-two-places-in-kolkata-ahead-of-new-year-celebrations-656362.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/app-fraud-two-arrested-from-hisar-for-duping-delhi-woman-656363.html New Delhi Dec 23 Two cyber fraudsters were arrested from Haryana for duping a Delhi woman of Rs 227 lakh in the name of investment through a stock trading App a Delhi Police official said on Tuesday The accused were identified as Sameer and Dev Singh both residents of Hisar said Deputy Commissioner of Police Shahdara Prashant Gautam adding that two mobile phones and three SIM cards were recovered from themDuring the investigation into the complaint of Dr Amita Garg it was revealed that the fraudsters approach victims through social media WhatsApp or Telegram claiming to be expert traders or financial advisorsThey promise guaranteed high returns from stock market investment Initially they ask the victim to invest a small amount and show fake profits or even return some money to build trust the police said in a statementOnce trust is established victims are persuaded to invest larger sums to earn more profit After significant investment the victim may be shown huge losses or may be told that the account is frozen due to tax or compliance issuesWhen the fraudsters extract maximum money they stop responding or block the victim For this they required a lot of bank accounts So that they lured people for money to openhand over the access to bank accounts to them the police saidGarg filed an online complaint on November 13 online complaint regarding cyber fraud of Rs 227 lakh An eFIR No 292025 us 3184340 BNS was registered at PS Cyber ShahdaraIn her complaint she alleged that she was added to a WhatsApp group namely Stan Chart Dialogue Forum L7 In this group there were 5 admins who talked about Dmat sharesOne of the group admins namely Yalini Guna offered a plan of investment through their own app which is called SCIIHNW and provides shares The complainant installed that application through the link the police saidInitially she invested almost Rs 27 lakh through 11 transactions of different dates But as she tried to withdraw her amount they made various excuses and further pressured the complainant to invest more money the police saidIn this way the complainant invested a total amount of Rs 227 lakh After that they blocked the complainant on that app the police saidDuring the investigation details of accounts in which transactions were done were obtained from the complainant After checking the trail of the NCRP portal it is revealed that money was credited in the Ac No XXXXXXXXXX35 Bank of Maharashtra through two transactions the police saidThe account holder of this account was identified as Sameer ro Hisar Haryana and the registered mobile number is XXXXXXXX90 He CDR of the number was obtained and found some other suspect mobile numbers being used in the scam the police saidA Delhi Police team reached Hisar Haryana and suspects were identified as Sameer and Dev Singh On confirming their role in the scam they were taken into custody the police saidTo solve the case a team comprising Inspector Shweta Sharma HC Javed HC Deepak and HC Narender was constituted and led by SHOPS Cyber Vijay Kumar under the supervision of ACPOps Mohinder Singh IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/app-fraud-two-arrested-from-hisar-for-duping-delhi-woman-656363.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-convicts-diamond-export-firm-directors-in-rs-575-cr-bank-fraud-case-656364.html Chennai Dec 30 In a significant verdict delivered on Monday the Special CBI Court in Chennai convicted Ms DN International Ltd a citybased diamond export firm along with its directors is involved in a major bank fraud case involving Rs 575 crore The court sentenced the companyâs directors â Ketan A Shah Mukesh A Shah Ashwin H Shah and Rashmikant Shah â to five years of rigorous imprisonment each and imposed a fine of Rs 4 lakh on each of them The company itself was also fined Rs 4 lakh The case pertains to financial irregularities committed during 1999â2000 when the accused company had availed credit facilities from Andhra Bankâs Mowbrays Road Branch in Chennai According to the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI the accused conspired with certain bank officials to fraudulently obtain packing credit and foreign bills discounting limits without adhering to mandatory banking norms and safeguards The investigation revealed that the accused diverted the sanctioned funds for purposes other than those for which the loans were granted This resulted in a wrongful loss of Rs 575 crore to the bank while corresponding unlawful gains accrued to the accused company and its directors The CBI registered the case on February 19 2002 following credible information about irregularities in the sanctioning and utilisation of bank funds After a detailed probe the agency filed a chargesheet on May 7 2004 against 11 accused including officials of Andhra Bank and directors of Ms DN International Ltd alleging criminal conspiracy cheating and criminal misconduct During the course of the lengthy trial the court examined documentary evidence and witness testimonies that established the role of the accused in orchestrating the fraud The court observed that the accused had deliberately violated banking norms abused their official and fiduciary positions and caused substantial financial loss to the public sector bank While five of the accused were convicted and sentenced the court acquitted three individuals due to a lack of sufficient evidence Proceedings against three other accused abated as they passed away during the pendency of the trial The judgment marks a significant conclusion to a twodecadeold case and underscores the judiciaryâs resolve to hold offenders accountable in cases involving banking fraud and financial misconduct IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-convicts-diamond-export-firm-directors-in-rs-575-cr-bank-fraud-case-656364.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-court-issues-proclamation-notice-against-ex-kcci-chief-two-others-in-2020-uapa-case-656365.html Srinagar Dec 30 A National Investigation Agency NIA court in Jammu and Kashmirs Srinagar city on Tuesday issued a proclamation notice against the former Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries KCCI President Mubeen Shah and two others in a 2020 Unlawful Activities Prevention Act UAPA case against them the central agency officials said The NIA court asked them to appear before the court on January 31 2026Officials said that the court has directed accused Mubeen Shah Azizul Hassan Ashai and Rifat Wani to present themselves before it on January 31 or face stringent action including attachment of property under CrPC Section 83Officials added that the case was registered under Sections 153A promoting enmity or hatred between different groups and Section 505 statements conducing public mischief of the IPC and Section 13 of the UAPAThe Counter Intelligence Kashmir registered the case on the basis of credible intelligence inputs revealing a wellorchestrated conspiracy by unscrupulous antisocial and antinational elements operating at the behest of secessionist forces within and outside the ValleyInvestigation has exposed that these elements were masquerading as news portals journalists and freelancers while in reality weaponising social media platforms such as Facebook X and WhatsApp to create upload and circulate fake motivated exaggerated secessionist and outofcontext contentThe deliberate objective of this digital misinformation campaign was to incite street violence disrupt normal life damage public property disturb public order and fuel mass unrest thereby promoting antinational sentiments and advancing a secessionist agenda aimed at creating disaffection against the Union of IndiaThe accused were found to be actively propagating content prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of India spreading false and fabricated narratives with the clear intent of instigating disaffection against the Union of India Officials saidWarrants of arrest were issued against the accused persons who went underground and are absconding to evade the process of law Taking serious note of their deliberate evasion the court has now issued a proclamation under Section 82 CrPC directing the accused to appear before it on or before January 31 2026Failure to comply will invite stringent proceedings under Section 83 CrPC including attachment of propertyDespite being declared absconders the accused are notorious for their continued hostile activities and remain highly active on social media platforms where they persist in peddling false fabricated and provocative content with the intention of inciting largescale violence and destabilising public order in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir Officials addedThe three accused persons belonging to Kashmir are now based in the US and GermanyThey have been booked for allegedly weaponising social media platforms to incite street violence disrupt normal life damage public property disturb public order and fuel mass unrest IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-court-issues-proclamation-notice-against-ex-kcci-chief-two-others-in-2020-uapa-case-656365.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-4-year-old-boy-critically-injured-in-nilgai-shooting-mishap-656366.html Patna Dec 30 A shocking incident was reported from the Siwan district of Bihar where a stray bullet fired at a nilgai blue bull missed its target and hit a fouryearold child leaving him critically injured The incident has triggered panic and anger among villagersThe incident occurred on Tuesday evening in a village under the Siswan police station areaAccording to a police officer some youths were illegally attempting to shoot a nilgai without permissionDuring this act a bullet went astray and struck a child in the stomach while he was playing outside his houseThe seriously injured child was first rushed to a local health centre from where he was referred to the Siwan district hospitalAs his condition remained critical doctors later referred him to Patna for advanced treatment The child is currently undergoing treatment and his condition is reported to be seriousAccording to the childâs family the incident occurred while the child was playing in front of his homeThe childâs mother alleged that four young men armed with rifles had arrived near their house and were trying to kill a nilgaiâWe protested and asked them to stop but they did not listen After some time I heard my son screaming When we reached him blood was flowing from his stomach and he was lying unconsciousâ the childâs mother saidShe further stated that she managed to catch hold of one of the accused but he escaped with the help of othersHearing the commotion villagers gathered at the spot and immediately arranged to take the injured child to the hospitalAfter receiving information about the incident the Siswan police station swung into actionStation House Officer SHO Ashok Kumar confirmed that an investigation has been initiatedHe said that based on the statement of the childâs mother the accused are being identified and continuous raids are being conducted to arrest themâThe culprits will be arrested soon and strict legal action will be takenâ the SHO saidThe incident has once again raised serious concerns about the illegal use of firearms and poaching activities in rural areasVillagers have demanded the immediate arrest of the accused and compensation for the injured childâs family IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-4-year-old-boy-critically-injured-in-nilgai-shooting-mishap-656366.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/operation-chakravyuh-3-smugglers-arrested-with-1203-kg-md-drugs-in-rajasthan-656367.html Jaipur Dec 30 Under Operation Chakravyuh Pratapgarh police in Rajasthan achieved a major breakthrough by arresting three drug smugglers and seizing 1203 kilograms of MD methylenedioxymethamphetamine drugs valued at approximately Rs 125 crore in the international market The operation was jointly carried out by the Dholapani Police Station and the District Special Team DST during a targeted roadblock SP B Aditya said that under the supervision of Additional Superintendent of Police Gajendra Singh a police team led by Dholapani SHO Praveen Kumar was conducting a roadblock near Barol Ghat on Tuesday During the operation two youthsâShahrukh Khan and Dilawar Khanâwere spotted approaching on a motorcycle bearing a Madhya Pradesh registration number On seeing the police they attempted to flee but were quickly surrounded and detained The duo failed to give satisfactory answers during preliminary questioning Meanwhile an Apache motorcycle arrived from behindWhen the police stopped the vehicle the pillion rider Safiullah fled towards the jungle while the rider Rahim Khan was apprehended on the spot A search of Rahim Khan led to the recovery of 1203 kg of MD drugs concealed in a polythene bag hidden under his Tshirt During interrogation Rahim Khan revealed that Shahrukh and Dilawar were acting as decoys riding ahead to check for police presence and alert the main carrier to ensure the safe passage of the drug consignment All three accused were arrested and both motorcycles used in the smuggling operation were seizedThe arrested individuals are residents of Hathunia The police are currently searching for the absconding accused Safiullah and are investigating the source of the drugs as well as their intended destination The successful operation involved SHO Praveen Kumar SI Bhanwarsingh and members of the DST team Constables Vinod and Pankaj along with Ramesh from the Cyber Cell played a crucial role in the operation Further investigation is underway IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/operation-chakravyuh-3-smugglers-arrested-with-1203-kg-md-drugs-in-rajasthan-656367.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-cm-expresses-grief-over-indore-water-tragedy-jitu-patwari-seeks-action-against-mayor-656368.html Indore Dec 30 Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of three residents of Bhagirathpura in Indore following the consumption of contaminated water âThe incident that occurred in the Bhagirathpura area of Indore is extremely tragic While paying tribute to the deceased persons I pray for the swift recovery of all those undergoing treatmentâ Yadav wrote on XThe Chief Minister announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the families of each deceased and reiterated that the state government would bear the cost of treatment for all affected persons He assured that the administration would ensure their safetyThe tragedy has triggered panic in Bhagirathpura after three deaths and a rising number of hospitalisations linked to allegedly contaminated tap water More than 66 people have been admitted to various hospitals including government and private institutions To contain the crisis 22 medical teams comprising senior doctors have been deployed in villages suspected to be affected by the water supplyResponding to the incident Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari demanded accountability âThree people have died and the Indore Municipal Commissioner and Mayor should be held responsible for itâ Patwari said during a hospital visit on Tuesday evening IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-cm-expresses-grief-over-indore-water-tragedy-jitu-patwari-seeks-action-against-mayor-656368.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/providing-houses-to-encroachers-can-lead-to-mini-pakistan-ktaka-lop-656370.html Bengaluru Dec 31 Karnataka Leader of the Opposition LoP R Ashoka on Tuesday alleged that the Congressled government has set a bad precedent by deciding to construct houses for land encroachers thereby encouraging the land mafia âProviding houses to encroachers could lead to the creation of mini Pakistanâ he warnedAddressing a press conference on Tuesday he said a solid waste management unit was planned at the site for Rs 100 crore He said Survey No 99 comprises nine acres of rocky land that later became a stone quarry and was subsequently identified for waste disposal He claimed that while it was being said that residents who are Muslims had been living there for 20 years Google Maps imagery from 2023 showed the area was waterlogged and vacant with no habitationâEven 15 acres of land was completely vacant Only in the last six months have people begun living there in temporary structuresâ he saidAshoka said Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had spoken about the eviction of encroachments on government land at Kogilu Cross He questioned under which scheme Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was proposing to allot houses and asked whether the land mafia was being encouraged He warned that this could lead to the creation of a âmini Pakistanâ and growth of the drug mafia and said the identity of the occupants must first be verifiedHe alleged that a Congress leader named Wasim had collected Rs 45 lakh and constructed houses terming it a Congresssponsored illegal activity He criticised Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda for saying the encroachments would be cleared while houses had been built on land meant for waste disposalâLand worth Rs 650 crore has been handed over to themâ he allegedHe alleged that Muslims who had come from Bangladesh were living there and had obtained âfakeâ Aadhaar cards âChief Minister Siddaramaiah citing humanitarian grounds has decided to provide them houses under the Ashraya schemeâ he saidAshoka said due process under the Ashraya housing scheme had not been followed âIn Bengaluru alone encroachments have been cleared at 40 locations If houses are to be built on humanitarian grounds everywhere it amounts to encouraging encroachersâ he saidâThe Chief Minister himself has said they are migrantsâ he addedHe said the state has 1731 lakh people without residential sites and three lakh homeless persons âA total of 3748 lakh people are waiting after applying for houses There is no opportunity for local poor people but the government says it will build houses for outsiders I have never seen housing schemes approved at such speed in Karnatakaâs historyâ he saidAshoka further alleged that compensation was being given in Kerala in cases of death due to elephant attacks or floods and questioned whether Karnataka had been mortgaged to the Kerala governmentHe claimed that even spokespersons from Pakistan had commented on the issue alleging atrocities against Muslims âThe situation has deteriorated to that extent There must be a highlevel probe to determine whether these people are Kannadigas or foreigners Until then houses should not be allotted to themâ he demanded IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/providing-houses-to-encroachers-can-lead-to-mini-pakistan-ktaka-lop-656370.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/new-year-vehicles-barred-from-cp-after-7-pm-curbs-at-india-gate-in-delhi-today-656375.html New Delhi Dec 31 On New Years eve the Delhi Traffic Police will not allow any vehicular traffic in the inner middle or outer circle of Connaught Place from 7 pm on Wednesday to prevent jams and allow seamless celebrations an official said In the area around India Gate in case of heavy pedestrian movement vehicles may not be allowed to go through CHexagon on Wednesday the traffic police saidSimilarly the traffic police have made special arrangements to manage a rush of devotees coming to offer prayers at Shri Mata Jhandewalan Mandir on Wednesday and the New Yearâs first day Commuters have been advised to avoid Rani Jhansi Road during peak hoursIn a statement issued on Tuesday for traffic management in Connaught Place area the traffic police said that from 7 pm on Wednesday âNo vehicle shall be allowed to proceed towards Connaught Place beyond i Round About RA Mandi House ii RA Bengali Market iii North foot of Ranjit Singh Flyover iv Minto Road â Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Marg crossing v Chelmsford Road near Munje Chowk New Delhi Rly Station vi RK Ashram MargChitragupta Marg Crossing vii RA Gole Market viii RA GPO New Delhi viii Patel Chowk ix Kasturba Gandhi Road Ferozeshah Road Crossing x Jai Singh RoadBangla Sahib Lane xi RA Windsor place âFor New Year revellers heading to India Gate the traffic police said âVisitors are advised to use public transport as there is a shortage of parking space at India Gate In view of a large gathering expected at Delhi Zoo resulting in congestion on Mathura Road the General PublicMotorists are advised to avoid Bhairon RoadMathura Road between Hazrat Nizamuddin and Pragati MaidanâCommuters are requested to cooperate by avoidingbypassing the abovementioned roads if possible and make maximum use of public transport to ensure a safe journey We appreciate your understanding and your cooperation towards alleviation traffic congestion during the abovementioned period People who are going towards ISBTRailway StationsAirports are advised to carefully plan their travel with sufficient time at hand said the traffic policeThough the curbs may not impact traffic movement towards the Old Railway Station the traffic police have suggested special routes for accessing New Delhi Railway Station on Wednesday after 7 pmThe statement said âAccess to New Delhi Railway Station From South i Ram Manohar Lohiya Park Street Mandir Marg Rani Jhansi Road RA Jhande Walan Desh Bandhu Gupta Road ii RA GPO Kali Bari Marg Mandir Marg Rani Jhansi Road RA Jhande Walan Desh Bandhu Gupta Road iii RA Windsor Place Ferozeshah Road Mandi House âWâ Point âAâ PointDDU Marg Bhav Bhuti Marg iv Entry from Connaught Place â Chelmsford Road shall be prohibited v Motorists can take the Second Entry Gate of the Ajmeri Gate side They can reach the station via Pahar Ganj â Shiela Cinema or through Ajmeri Gate â JLN Marg side via BSZ Marg â Delhi Gate â JLN Margâ IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/new-year-vehicles-barred-from-cp-after-7-pm-curbs-at-india-gate-in-delhi-today-656375.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 07:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/chennai-on-high-alert-25-000-cops-deployed-for-new-years-eve-celebrations-656379.html Chennai Dec 31 Chennai will witness heightened security measures on New Yearâs Eve with more than 25000 police personnel deployed across the city and its suburbs to ensure a safe and incidentfree celebration The extensive security arrangement involving personnel from the Greater Chennai Police Tambaram City Police and Avadi City Police will be supported by drones CCTV surveillance and special monitoring teamsAccording to official sources nearly 19000 police personnel will be deployed within the Greater Chennai Police limits while 3000 personnel each will be stationed in the Tambaram and Avadi police jurisdictions In addition 1500 Home Guards will assist with crowd management traffic regulation and emergency responsePolice authorities have issued a strong advisory urging the public to cooperate with security personnel and adhere strictly to safety norms Special emphasis has been laid on preventing drunken driving reckless riding and unruly behaviour during celebrationsEstablishments serving alcohol have been warned to ensure the safety of women patrons and entry of minors into such premises has been strictly prohibitedAs part of safety measures beaches across Chennai and its suburbs including Marina Santhome Elliots Neelangarai Panaiyur and Kovalam will remain closed to the public from Wednesday evening until January 1 2026The bursting of firecrackers has also been completely banned in public places and residential areas Residents planning celebrations in apartment complexes must obtain prior permission from the police and concerned civic authorities especially for the use of loudspeakersTo curb drunken driving and racing over 500 vehicle checkposts have been established across Chennai Tambaram and Avadi In Chennai alone 425 vehicle inspection teams will be on duty while Tambaram city limits will have 60 dedicated teams monitoring traffic violations and drunken driving Additional patrol teams on twowheelers will provide assistance and enhance visibility in vulnerable areasThe Tamil Nadu Police in coordination with the Coast Guard and Marina Beach Lifeguards have also stepped up coastal securityWarning boards have been erected and ambulances with medical personnel will be stationed near popular locations to handle emergencies Police officials reiterated that these measures are aimed at ensuring a safe peaceful and incidentfree New Year celebration for all residents and visitors in Chennai IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/chennai-on-high-alert-25-000-cops-deployed-for-new-years-eve-celebrations-656379.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 08:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-governor-begins-5-day-visit-to-ooty-extensive-security-arrangements-in-place-656380.html Chennai Dec 31 Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi has embarked on a fiveday visit to the Nilgiris with extensive security arrangements put in place across the hill district The visit comes after a twoday conference of ViceChancellors of State Universities held on April 25 and 26 at Raj Bhavan Lok Bhavan in Ooty which was presided over by the Governor and focused on reforms and quality enhancement in higher education Although the Governor had earlier planned to visit Ooty earlier this month the trip was postponed due to administrative reasons He resumed his travel schedule on Tuesday embarking on a road journey from Rameswaram to Coimbatore Governor Ravi reached the Government Guest House at Race Course Road Coimbatore at around 1010 pm on Tuesday and stayed there overnight This morning the Governor departed by road at around 7 am and will reach Lok Bhavan in Ooty where he is scheduled to stay during the course of his visit During his stay he is expected to hold informal interactions and also visit select locations in and around the hill town Sources said the visit is largely official in nature though the Governor is also expected to spend time with family members during his stay According to the itinerary Governor Ravi will leave Ooty early on Friday at around 5 am and travel by road to Coimbatore from where he will fly to Chennai to attend official engagements He is scheduled to return to Coimbatore again on the 3rd of the month and proceed to Ooty by road After completing the remaining engagements he will return to Chennai from Coimbatore by air on January 4 In view of the Governorâs visit elaborate security arrangements have been put in place across Ooty and along the travel routes More than 500 police personnel have been deployed to ensure foolproof security with special focus on traffic regulation route security and crowd management Senior police officials are overseeing the arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the visit The visit has drawn attention in the Nilgiris district with authorities maintaining heightened vigil throughout the Governorâs stay IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-governor-begins-5-day-visit-to-ooty-extensive-security-arrangements-in-place-656380.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 08:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-chokes-as-aqi-slips-into-severe-zone-656381.html New Delhi Dec 31 Delhis air quality deteriorated further on Wednesday slipping into the severe category as the Air Quality Index AQI was recorded at 408 Dense fog and heavy pollution sharply reduced visibility across the national capital Several monitoring stations across central and south Delhi recorded very poor air quality levels AQI readings stood at 370 at Mandi House and India Gate 340 at Mathura Road and Sarojini Nagar while Rashtrapati Bhawan and ITO both recorded an AQI of 357Conditions were even worse in several other parts of the city and adjoining areas where air quality entered the severe zoneNoida recorded an AQI of 418 Karol Bagh 408 Rajouri Garden 406 Mundka 472 Patel Nagar 410 Chanakyapuri 405 Vasant Kunj 402 Saket 430 and Vikaspuri 472Lajpat Nagar touched the upper end of the scale with an AQI of 500 while IGI Airport recorded an alarming 512 Patel Nagar was also listed at 406 in another readingThe foggy conditions coincided with worrying projections from air quality forecasters who cautioned that pollution levels in the national capital region are likely to worsen significantly as the year draws to a closeUnder the Air Quality Index classification air quality is categorised as good 0â50 satisfactory 51â100 moderate 101â200 poor 201â300 very poor 301â400 and severe 401â500The India Meteorological Department IMD has forecast the persistence of dense fog conditions through Wednesday and urged commuters and travellers to remain cautious while on the roadsLow visibility also disrupted air travel prompting advisories from airlines and airport authoritiesIndiGo warned passengers of possible delays and cancellations at Delhi and several other airports across northern India stating that it was closely monitoring weather conditions and adjusting operations to minimise disruptionAir India too issued a travel advisory and announced advance cancellations of select morning flights that were likely to be affected by fogrelated visibility issuesWeather conditions across north India continue to be influenced by an active Western DisturbanceThe Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for dense fog and light rain in parts of Punjab and Chandigarh where rainfall is expected to continue until January 1Several locations across the region reported nearzero visibility amid cold damp and hazardous conditions adding to travel woes and public health concerns IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-chokes-as-aqi-slips-into-severe-zone-656381.html Wed, 31 Dec 2025 08:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-congress-protests-against-additional-security-deposit-demands-free-power-for-farmers-656150.html Bhubaneswar Dec 29 The Odisha Congress on Monday staged a protest against âillegalâ collection of Additional Security Deposit ASD and demanded free electricity to farmers and households The Congress workers led by Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee OPCC President Bhakta Charan Das protested outside TP Central Odisha Distribution Limitedâs TPCODL Bhubaneswar office hereThe demonstrators also raised their voices against the installation of new electricity meters alleging that the move is part of a larger plan to burden consumers with inflated power tariffs Das alleged that the state government are âharassing consumersâ and questioned the BJPâs promise of 300 units of free electricity Congress demanded stop additional security deposit free power for farmers 300 units free for households and withdrawal of smart meters Das warned of statewide agitation effigy burning on December 31 and gherao of the CMâs residence and offices if demands arenât metSenior leaders including Srikant Jena Suresh Routray Ananta Sethi MLA Pabitrananda Sahu and Minakshi Bahinipati joined Senior Congress leader Srikant Jena strongly criticised the state government stating that ordinary households small businesses and farmers will suffer the most if the new meter system and revised billing slabs are fully implemented Addressing the protestors Jena said that the revised meter and tariff policy would sharply increase electricity bills in the domestic and commercial sectors âConsumers will be forced to pay more Domestic users shopkeepers and small industries will face heavy financial pressure The government is favouring big industrial houses while common citizens are being pushed towards hardshipâ he alleged He further questioned the transparency of the system claiming that the new consumption slabs are designed in a way that even moderate usage will lead to higher billing âYou pay Rs 2 now soon it will become Rs 450 or more What will happen to households and small traders How will they survive This policy is against the peopleâ Jena warned Stating that the Congress will intensify its agitation Jena urged people across rural and urban areas to join the movement âThis is not a small issue If this continues electricity will become unaffordable for many families We will take this protest to every district and village The government must roll back the new meter system and tariff policyâ he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-congress-protests-against-additional-security-deposit-demands-free-power-for-farmers-656150.html Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-illegal-mdma-factory-busted-in-pratapgarh-drug-manufacturing-setup-seized-656151.html Jaipur Dec 29 In a major crackdown on drug trafficking police in Rajasthans Pratapgarh under Operation Chakravyuh have busted an illegal MDMA manufacturing unit operating deep inside the forests and hills of Baglia The operation was carried out under the direction of Pratapgarh Superintendent of Police SP B AdityaAccording to SP Aditya on the night of December 29 Hathunia Police Station Station House Officer SHO Udayveer Singh was on routine patrol with his team when they noticed a fire burning atop a hill along the deserted BagliaâTakrawad roadThe unusual sight in the biting cold raised suspicionActing swiftly the police team quietly climbed the hill on foot where they discovered a shocking scene an entire MDMA manufacturing setup operating inside a plastic hut hidden among dense treesDuring the raid 21yearold Karim Ajmeri a resident of Baglia attempted to flee but was apprehended by the alert police teamA search led to the recovery of 2854 grams of illegal MDMA from his possessionDuring questioning Karim confessed that he was guarding the factory on the instructions of Haroon AjmeriPolice also seized a motorcycle and various materials and equipment used for manufacturing the synthetic drugPolice have identified Haroon Ajmeri as the mastermind behind the operationHaroon is a known drug trafficker with four serious cases registered against him under the NDPS Act across police stations in Rajasthan and Madhya PradeshEarlier property acquired through his illegal activities had been frozen under Section 68F by Hathunia Police yet he continued to operate fearlessly from remote forest areasThe police have launched intensive raids at multiple locations to trace and arrest the absconding accusedThe operation was carried out by SHO Udayveer Singh along with Assistant SubInspector Bholuram and Ramchandra Head Constables Rajveer Manoharsingh and Suresh Kumar and Constables Anop Mukesh Arun Suresh Girish Chand Bhagwatilal and driver GanpatFurther investigation into the matter is underway IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-illegal-mdma-factory-busted-in-pratapgarh-drug-manufacturing-setup-seized-656151.html Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/revanth-reddy-stalling-irrigation-project-to-please-former-boss-ktr-656155.html Hyderabad Dec 29 Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS working president KT Rama Rao on Monday alleged that Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy stalled the PalamuruRangareddy lift irrigation project to appease his âold bossâ and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Rama Rao said that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy fears that completion of the project would bring credit to former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao KCR and invite the displeasure of his former political mentor N Chandrababu NaiduInteracting with the media in the Assembly premises KTR said it was a standard practice for any government to initiate irrigation projects in the name of drinking water needs and subsequently obtain statutory approvals but this reality was rarely acknowledged openlyHe recalled that the Polavaram project has been discussed for over 70 years and is still incomplete whereas the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project was completed during KCRâs tenure due to his unwavering commitmentâKaleshwaram stands as testimony to KCRâs dedication Even if investigations are carried out endlessly the state will only sufferâpolitically we will not People know very well who ensured water for Telanganaâ KTR assertedOn the PalamuruRangareddy project KTR stated that accepting an allocation of only 45 TMC would be detrimental and reminded that it was the earlier Congress government that had agreed to 299 TMCs in Krishna Based on that understanding the BRS government had approached the Centre for enhanced allocations Despite this he alleged Revanth Reddy has deliberately stalled the projectOn the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation GHMC KTR said there was widespread speculation about splitting GHMC into three parts and even converting the socalled âFourth Cityâ into a separate corporation Any restructuring he insisted must be done scientificallyHe accused the Congress government of undertaking arbitrary delimitation purely for financial gains allegedly on the advice of merchant bankers and brokers âThis entire exercise is aimed at raising money Such reckless actions will not go unansweredâ he warned adding that the BRS would demand a detailed discussion on the issueResponding to allegations of phone tapping KTR said intelligence systems have existed since the Nehru era and are meant for maintaining law and order and safeguarding the state âCan anyone honestly claim that surveillance mechanisms do not exist todayâ he askedHe questioned whether the Chief Minister could categorically state that opposition leadersâ phones are not being tapped If the tapping was untrue KTR asked why were officials not holding press briefings to clarify matters He also noted that the present DGP had served during earlier regimes and was well aware of how intelligence systems functionKTR criticised the Congress government for using SITs inquiries and cases as tools of distraction âWhat has been achieved through so many investigations Has even one allegation been conclusively provenâ he asked adding that people clearly see through these diversionary tacticsReferring to recent sarpanch elections KTR said the results amounted to a referendum on Congress governance Despite attempts to inflate numbers by including sarpanches from other parties the people had clearly rejected the Congress government within just two years of its rule IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/revanth-reddy-stalling-irrigation-project-to-please-former-boss-ktr-656155.html Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:08:00 +0530