DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:50:13 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-to-visit-varanasi-tomorrow-645684.html New Delhi Oct 30 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan will undertake a oneday visit to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on Friday and offer prayers at Kashi Vishwanath Temple an official said During the visit the Vice President will chair the inauguration of the new Satram Building at Sigra Varanasi as the Chief Guest along with the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath the official said in a statementThe Sri Kasi Nattukkottai Nagara Satram Managing Society has constructed the 10storey Satram with 140 rooms for Rs 60 crores This is the second Satram built by the Society in Varanasi and is aimed at serving visiting devotees as well as encouraging younger generations to visit the holy cityThis initiative reflects the ageold spiritual and cultural bond between Kashi and Tamil Nadu symbolising the deep KashiTamil connect in the spirit of Ek Bharat Shrestha BharatFollowing the inauguration the Vice President will visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and offer prayersEarlier Radhakrishnan concluded his visit to Tamil Nadu on Thursday after attending a series of events in Coimbatore Tiruppur Madurai and Ramanathapuram The visit took place from October 28 to 30On the final day of his visit today the Vice President visited Pasumpon in Ramanathapuram District and paid rich tributes to the revered leader Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar on the occasion of his jayanti and Guru PoojaThe VicePresident said that Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar was a great warrior fearless fighter revered saint and true patriot who dedicated his life to the nation and its peopleHe described Muthuramalinga Thevar as a devoted follower of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose who embodied courage sacrifice and patriotism in thought and action The VicePresident noted that Muthuramalinga Thevar was a leader for all communities and faithsThe Vice President said he felt privileged to have participated in Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar Jayanthi and Guru Pooja for the past 25 years and expressed immense happiness to once again be part of this years celebrations during his maiden visit to Tamil Nadu after assuming officeHe added that Muthuramalinga Thevars legacy will forever live in the hearts of the people IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-to-visit-varanasi-tomorrow-645684.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-263-arrested-in-cyber-fraud-crackdown-rs-300-cr-scam-uncovered-645685.html Kochi Oct 30 In a sweeping operation to curb the rising menace of online fraud Kerala Police on Thursday arrested 263 people across the state under Operation Sai Hunt a coordinated action aimed at dismantling cybercrime networks Announcing the details ADG of Police S Sreejith who led the crackdown said that police teams registered 382 cases during the operation which targeted those acting as conduits for fraudsters either by renting or selling their bank accounts or withdrawing scam proceeds through cheques and ATMsIn all the loss to people has been around Rs 300 crores While the victims include people from outside the state the accused are all from Kerala We will not stop with this instead we will extend our probe outside Kerala said SreejithThe raids which began at 7 am on Thursday and continued late into the night covered multiple districtsIn Ernakulam Rural police made 43 arrests the highest among all districtsThe largest numbers were reported from Kothamangalam and Muvattupuzha with eight arrests each followed by Aluva Edathala and Perumbavoor four each and Thadiyittaparambu threeSearches were carried out at 102 locations in totalIn Kalady police arrested Aneesh 40 of Kavalangattuthara House Srimoolanagaram whose account received Rs 7638 lakh through 24 transactions from multiple sourcesInvestigators said the account functioned as a mule account through which money was withdrawn both via cheques and electronic transfers for organised cybercrimeIn Kothamangalam Mohammed Yaseen 22 of Vattakkudi Inchur was arrested and remanded after Rs 297 lakh was found routed into his account through fraudulent meansIn Muvattupuzha the arrested include Ajnas 35 of East Vazhapilly Sajjad 20 of Mulavoor Arshad 20 and Musthafa Davood 22 of Peraykkappilly Shefees 35 of Vazhapilly Muhammad Rizwan 20 of Peraykkappilly and Muhammad Shameem 22 of MulavoorPolice said these individuals were part of a larger network aiding organised cybercriminals by providing access to local bank accountsThe ADGP added that similar statelevel drives will continue until cybercrime mule networks are completely neutralised IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-263-arrested-in-cyber-fraud-crackdown-rs-300-cr-scam-uncovered-645685.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-govt-forms-nine-member-panel-to-recommend-farm-loan-waiver-plan-645686.html Mumbai Oct 30 The Maharashtra government on Thursday constituted a ninemember committee to examine and recommend measures on the politically sensitive issue of farm loan waiver The panel will be chaired by retired bureaucrat and current CEO of Maharashtra Institution for Transformation MITRA Pravin Pardeshi According to a government notification issued the committee includes additional chief secretaries of the revenue finance agriculture cooperation and marketing departments along with representatives from the Maharashtra State Cooperative Bank and the Bank of Maharashtra among othersThe panel has been tasked with submitting its report within six months outlining both shortterm and longterm recommendations to provide relief to indebted farmers The move comes amid an ongoing protest in Nagpur led by Prahar Sanghatana chief and former minister Bachchu Kadu who has demanded an immediate farm loan waiverDuring the monsoon session then Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate had announced the governments intention to form such a committee to bring about radical change in farmers lives and free them from mounting debt Although the announcement was made on July 18 the actual notification was issued only today coinciding with Kadus intensified agitationKadu while welcoming the governments move asserted that only genuinely needy farmers should be eligible for the waiver Farmers who are financially capable government employees pensioners or businessmen who farm for tax benefits should be excluded With Digital India it is easy to identify the real beneficiaries he saidHe demanded that all loans of needy farmers be waived off immediately without conditions with even those regularly repaying loans getting a sevenyear grace period The waiver he said must cover not only crop loans but also mediumterm and development loans including those for polyhouses shade nets irrigation and land improvementKadu further demanded a 20 per cent subsidy on the Minimum Support Price MSP for farm produce Rs 5 lakh housing subsidy for rural families on par with urban areas and inclusion of all farm expenses from sowing to harvesting under the Maharashtra Rural Employment Guarantee SchemeAmong his other demands were cancellation of the NagpurGoa Shaktipeeth highway a Rs 6000 monthly honorarium for the disabled widows women and orphans and separate welfare policies for shepherds and fishermen He also sought a permanent resolution of Gram Panchayat employees salary issuesCalling for fair returns to farmers Kadu proposed a Fair and Remunerative Price FRP of Rs 4300 per tonne for sugarcane with 9 per cent recovery and Rs 430 for each additional percent Rs 40 per kg for onions with the removal of export curbs and a minimum milk rate of Rs 50 per litre for cows milk and Rs 65 for buffalo milk The government must ensure fair pricing and implement FRP and revenuesharing models in the milk sector he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-govt-forms-nine-member-panel-to-recommend-farm-loan-waiver-plan-645686.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/azharuddin-to-take-oath-as-telangana-cabinet-minister-tomorrow-645688.html Hyderabad Oct 30 Former Indian cricket captain and Congress leader Mohammed Azharuddin will take oath as a minister in Telangana Cabinet on Friday Governor Jishnu Dev Varma will administer oath to Azharuddin at 1215 pm at Raj BhavanChief Minister A Revanth Reddy Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and other ministers will attend the ceremony officials confirmed on ThursdayThe State Cabinet in August decided to nominate Azharuddin as Member of the Legislative Council MLC under Governors quotaAzharuddin is likely to be allotted the portfolio of minority welfareA former MP Azharuddin is currently the working president of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee TPCC and a member of Political Affairs Committee of the TPCCThe 62yearold is being included in the Cabinet ahead of November 11 byelection to Jubilee Hills Assembly constituencyThe former cricketer who had unsuccessfully contested from his home constituency in 2023 was keen to contest again but the Congress leadership decided to field Naveen Yadav and promised Cabinet berth to AzharuddinAzharuddins swearingin will take the strength of the State Cabinet to 16 He will be the first Muslim minister in CM Revanth Reddys CainetThe ruling party has been at the receiving end from various sections of the community for not having a single Muslim minister ever since it came to power nearly two years agoAll key Muslim candidates of the Congress party including Azharuddin had suffered defeat in 2023 Assembly electionsAzharuddins elevation as a minister is seen as the Congress partys move to reach out to Muslims who constitute about 30 per cent of the electorate in Jubilee HillsDuring the ongoing election campaign the BRS has been targeting Congress party for what it called deceiving Muslim community and also betraying AzharuddinInterestingly BJP has urged the Election Commission not to allow Cabinet expansion as Azharuddin is being made a minister to appease a section of voters in the byelection The party has termed this as violation of Model Code of ConductThe Cabinet was formed on December 7 2023 with the swearingin of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and 11 ministersAfter a long delay the Cabinet was expanded on June 8 2025 with the induction of three ministers The Congress leadership however kept three posts vacantThe State Cabinet can have a maximum of 18 ministers including the Chief MinisterAzharuddin was elected to the Lok Sabha from Moradabad constituency in Uttar Pradesh in 2009 a few months after he joined the Congress party The Congress had fielded him from Rajasthans TonSawai Madhopur in 2014 but he lost the electionIn 2018 he was appointed as the Working President of the Telangana Congress He had campaigned for the party in the 2018 Assembly elections but the party did not field him in either the Assembly or Lok Sabha polls IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/azharuddin-to-take-oath-as-telangana-cabinet-minister-tomorrow-645688.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/northeast-witnessing-golden-era-of-growth-under-pm-modis-visionary-leadership-arunachal-guv-645690.html Itanagar Oct 30 Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt General KT Parnaik Retd on Thursday said that the entire Northeastern region is witnessing a golden era of growth under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi driven by his actionoriented and outcomebased Act East Policy Addressing the first convocation of Arunachal Pradesh University as the Chief Guest the Governor said that the Prime Ministers vision and initiatives have brought unprecedented financial and infrastructural support to the state He urged that this progress must not be undermined by selfish motives or personal interests calling upon all to uphold honesty fairness and selfless service particularly towards people in the frontier and border areasThe Governor advised graduating students to let transparency guide their actions integrity shape their decisions and professionalism define their conduct reminding them that true success lies not only in what one achieves but also in how it is achievedHe said that the Prime Ministers call for a developed India by 2047 is a collective mission that rests on the youths innovation integrity and leadershipLt Gen Parnaik noted that the newly established Arunachal Pradesh University stands at a defining moment with the opportunity to learn from global institutions while building an education model rooted in local values and aspirations He emphasised that research and innovation must form the soul of the university fostering curiosity critical thinking and the courage to ask transformative questionsTrue education as envisioned in the National Education Policy NEP 2020 must go beyond classrooms and textbooks to shape character build courage and instil compassion he said The Governor also highlighted that the NEP places teachers at the centre of educational reforms recognising them as true nationbuilders who shape the future of society He urged that teachers be honoured empowered and inspired to guide future generations and help build a stronger enlightened IndiaOutlining his decadal vision for the university the Governor said it must evolve into a model of academic excellence and human development He encouraged initiatives such as village adoption cleanliness drives antidrug campaigns and women and child health programmes to foster social responsibility among studentsExpressing delight that 66 per cent of successful candidates and nearly all toppers were female students Lt Gen Parnaik said this reflected the spirit of womens empowerment and the changing social fabric of Arunachal PradeshAs Chancellor of the University the Governor also proposed setting up a Centre of Excellence for Tribal Studies to celebrate Arunachals rich cultural diversity and a Community Radio Station to serve as the peoples voice promoting awareness education and positive storytelling across the regionArunachal Pradesh University Vice Chancellor Prof Tomo Riba and Registrar Narmi Darang also addressed the occasion IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/northeast-witnessing-golden-era-of-growth-under-pm-modis-visionary-leadership-arunachal-guv-645690.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-sharpshooter-among-seven-arrested-three-foreign-pistols-recovered-645691.html Jaipur Oct 30 In a joint operation the newly formed AntiGangster Task Force AGTF and the Gogamedi police arrested seven accused including a sharpshooter from the gang of gangsters Rohit Godara and Virendra Charan Three foreign pistols 70 cartridges and five magazines were recovered from their possession A minor has also been detained ASP Geeta Chaudhary stated that information was received that Vikas alias Raju alias Pawan a historysheeter associated with the gang was buying and selling weapons in preparation for a major crimeActing on this information the police and AGTF team raided near Ramgarh village Upon seeing the police the suspects began running but were captured after a siege The search for other gang members is ongoing A parade of the arrested accused was held in Netrana village to raise awareness The main accused Vikas is a historysheeter with the Gogamedi police station He has more than a dozen serious cases registered against him including murder extortion robbery and the Arms Act The police team has arrested Vikas a resident of Ujjalwas Rajesh a resident of Sirsa Rajuram Parth Rathod and Roopendra residents of Noida Chak Jaitpur Bikaner Mukesh a resident of Purbasar police station Pallu and a minor Additional Superintendent of Police ASP Geeta Chaudhary said that Constable Monu of Gogamedi police station received a tipoff that Vikas alias Raju alias Pawan alias Shooter a resident of Ujjalwas was in touch with gangsters Rohit Godara Virendra Charan and Mahendra Saharan and planning a major criminal act Acting swiftly on the information a team from Gogamedi police station along with the DST incharge conducted a raid in Ramgarh villageOn spotting the police the suspects attempted to flee but the team managed to surround and apprehend seven accused Those arrested include Vikas alias Raju alias Pawan alias Shooter 29 son of Nihal Singh resident of Ujjalwas Gogamedi Rajesh 22 son of Dharampal resident of Chaharwala Nathusari Chaupata PS Sirsa Haryana Rajuram 22 son of Kishanlal resident of Noida Chak Jaitpur Mahajan PS Bikaner Rupendra 20 son of Pawan Kumar resident of Ward No 3 Jaitpur Mahajan PS Bikaner Mukesh 19 son of Hanuman Nayak resident of Ward No 6 Purbasar Pallu PS Hanumangarh and Parth 20 son of Bhagwan Singh Rajput resident of Jaitpur Mahajan PS Bikaner One minor has also been detained Police said further interrogation is underway to uncover the gangs plans and links with organised crime networks IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-sharpshooter-among-seven-arrested-three-foreign-pistols-recovered-645691.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-court-awards-20-years-ri-to-man-in-pocso-case-645693.html Bhubaneswar Oct 30 A local court in Bargarh district on Thursday sentenced a man to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for repeatedly sexually abusing a 16yearold girl under the pretext of marriage in the Paikamal police station area in 2022 The convict identified as Saroj Bariha 21 was found guilty under Section 3762n of the Indian Penal Code IPC and Section 6 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences POCSO Act As per reports on February 21 2022 the minor victim appeared at Paikmal Police Station along with her parents and lodged a written report alleging that one Saroj Bariha of his village had committed sexual assault on her repeatedly for over one year between February 2021 and January 2022 giving false assurances of marriage It was further added that when the victim became pregnant the accused Saroj fled away from the village and also switched off his mobile phone Later the victim told the matter to her mother and a village meeting was held on this issue but the parents of the accused Saroj did not take any step for the shelter of the victim so she reported the matter at Paikmal Police Station for taking necessary legal action against the accused Saroj Following the registration of FIR the Bargarh police arrested the accused Saroj on June 27 2022 Following examination of various exhibits and other evidence the court on Thursday awarded 20 years RI to Saroj holding him guilty of sexually abusing the minor girl The court also directed the District Legal Services Authority to provide financial compensation of Rs 11 lakhs to the victim under the victim compensation scheme In another significant judgment in a POCSO case a local court in Angul district on Wednesday sentenced a 20yearold youth to 25 years of rigorous imprisonment for sexually assaulting his sisterinlaws eightyearold daughter on August 19 2024 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-court-awards-20-years-ri-to-man-in-pocso-case-645693.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/meghalaya-conrad-sangma-holds-cm-connect-to-engage-with-villagers-645694.html Shillong Oct 30 Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday held the CM Connect programme at Thangsning village under Mawkynrew Block in East Khasi Hills District directly engaging with villagers to understand their concerns and development needs The CM Connect initiative a flagship citizenengagement platform of the state government seeks to strengthen participatory governance by fostering direct dialogue between the Chief Minister and residents at the grassroots levelDuring the interaction community representatives raised issues such as the need for Higher Secondary Schools a Community College improved MNREGA implementation additional Anganwadi Centres a Veterinary Centre water supply expansion better roads and bridges reliable electricity and sports infrastructureResponding to these concerns Sangma announced Rs 1335 crore for the construction of the JongkshaThynroit Bridge to improve connectivity and sanction of an Artificial Turf adjacent to the Indoor Stadium in Mawkynrew to promote sports and youth developmentHe further said 1700 new Mini Anganwadi Centres will be established across Meghalaya within two years to cover all uncovered villages In the meantime these centres will operate from community spaces within three months he added Another Rs 60 lakh has been sanctioned for repair and maintenance of 20 existing centres under a state schemeOn education the Chief Minister said the government spends over 3500 crore annually on the sector Rs 2000 crore on salaries and Rs 1000 crore in grants to 4500 private aided schools the highest in the North East He said grants for Adhoc and SSA schools would be restructured and school categories rationalised to improve efficiency and equityAddressing farmers issues Sangma announced expansion of the CM FARM and CM SEEDS schemes with increased funding to support diverse agricultural needsYour inputs and cooperation enable us to serve you better Together we will build stronger communities and ensure that every household benefits from our development efforts he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/meghalaya-conrad-sangma-holds-cm-connect-to-engage-with-villagers-645694.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjps-internal-feud-behind-dharmasthala-case-shivakumar-645695.html Bengaluru Oct 30 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said on Thursday that he stands by his statement that the Dharmasthala case arose due to internal conflicts among BJP leaders The Deputy Chief Minister said that in the Dharmasthala case as much harm as possible has already been done to the individual the family and the institution Our wish is that both dharma and justice should prevail he saidShivakumar added that Dharmadhikari and BJP Rajya Sabha Member Veerendra Heggades personality is unique I felt bad that the name of such an institution was being tarnished Just as Tirupati is known for vows made through offerings of money Dharmasthala is known for vows made through word Once such a vow is taken it cannot be broken I believe that any institution that functions in such a disciplined manner will not face any problem he saidHe added that based on his personal understanding and experience of the traditions followed in Dharmasthala and the practices observed there he made the remarksHe added that Home Minister G Parameshwara has said the report will be submitted soon They might have filed thousands of petitions before the court When someone commits an offence the law of this land provides an opportunity to seek an apology The media should discuss that aspect he saidWhen asked about reports that ministers have submitted a threemonth performance report to the high command regarding the cabinet reshuffle Shivakumar said that he does not know if reports were sought about other issues or ministers A survey is conducted regularly within our party every month about our work in the constituency in the party and in the government Reports are routinely sent to the high command They collect their own reports as well We too send monthly updates about party activities he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjps-internal-feud-behind-dharmasthala-case-shivakumar-645695.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-guv-thawarchand-gehlot-hospitalised-cm-siddaramiah-wishes-him-speedy-recovery-645697.html Bengaluru Oct 31 Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has been admitted to a hospital in Bengaluru due to a viral fever Chief Minister Siddaramaiah visited the Manipal Hospital on Thursday to inquire about the Governors health and wished him a speedy recoveryGovernor Gehlot had recently visited Madhya Pradesh where he attended a series of programmesIt is said that he may have developed a high fever due to exhaustionInitially the Governor was admitted to a private hospital on the Old Airport Road in BengaluruLater for advanced treatment he was shifted to Manipal Hospital in the city where he is currently undergoing treatmentHe is likely to be discharged from the hospital soonGovernor Gehlot was shifted to the hospital two days agoTaking to his official X account CM Siddaramaiah said Today I visited Manipal Hospital to inquire about the health of Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot who is undergoing treatment and wished him a speedy recoveryGovernor Thaawarchand Gehlot is a member of the Rajya Sabha Upper House of Parliament representing Madhya PradeshHe was awarded an honorary doctorate by the BR Ambedkar University of Social SciencesHe formerly represented Shajapur in the Lower House of the Parliament as well served as a Lok Sabha member from 1996 to 2009He served as the Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment in Prime Minister Narendra Modiled Union governments second termHe is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP and was also the General Secretary of the partyOn July 6 2021 Thaawarchand Gehlot was appointed as the 13th Governor of KarnatakaGehlot was born in a Dalit family in the village of Rupeta in Nagda in Madhya PradeshHe had assumed Ministerial berth a number of times in the BJPled Union governmentHe was a member of the Parliamentary Board and the Central Election Committee of the BJPHe completed his Bachelor of Arts degree from Vikram University in Madhya Pradeshs Ujjain IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-guv-thawarchand-gehlot-hospitalised-cm-siddaramiah-wishes-him-speedy-recovery-645697.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-to-visit-varanasi-today-645700.html New Delhi Oct 30 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan will undertake a oneday visit to Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on Friday and offer prayers at Kashi Vishwanath Temple an official said During the visit the Vice President will chair the inauguration of the new Satram Building at Sigra Varanasi as the Chief Guest along with the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath the official said in a statementThe Sri Kasi Nattukkottai Nagara Satram Managing Society has constructed the 10storey Satram with 140 rooms for Rs 60 croresThis is the second Satram built by the Society in Varanasi and is aimed at serving visiting devotees as well as encouraging younger generations to visit the holy cityThis initiative reflects the ageold spiritual and cultural bond between Kashi and Tamil Nadu symbolising the deep KashiTamil connect in the spirit of Ek Bharat Shrestha BharatFollowing the inauguration the Vice President will visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and offer prayersEarlier Radhakrishnan concluded his visit to Tamil Nadu on Thursday after attending a series of events in Coimbatore Tiruppur Madurai and Ramanathapuram The visit took place from October 28 to 30On the final day of his visit today the Vice President visited Pasumpon in Ramanathapuram District and paid rich tributes to the revered leader Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar on the occasion of his jayanti and Guru PoojaThe VicePresident said that Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar was a great warrior fearless fighter revered saint and true patriot who dedicated his life to the nation and its peopleHe described Muthuramalinga Thevar as a devoted follower of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose who embodied courage sacrifice and patriotism in thought and action The VicePresident noted that Muthuramalinga Thevar was a leader for all communities and faithsThe Vice President said he felt privileged to have participated in Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar Jayanthi and Guru Pooja for the past 25 years and expressed immense happiness to once again be part of this years celebrations during his maiden visit to Tamil Nadu after assuming office IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-to-visit-varanasi-today-645700.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 07:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/fire-at-rajasthan-resort-tents-reduced-to-ashes-narrow-escape-for-tourists-645706.html Jaipur Oct 31 A massive fire broke out at a resort near the worldfamous Sam Sand Dunes late Thursday night spreading rapidly due to strong desert winds Within minutes half a dozen luxury tents were completely reduced to ashes creating panic among tourists and locals There were no casualties At the time of the incident several domestic and foreign tourists were staying at the resort However due to the quick response of the staff all guests were safely evacuated and no casualties were reported Upon receiving information the Sam Police Station Officer reached the spot along with a team With the help of local residents and resort employees the blaze was brought under control after nearly an hour of firefighting During this time furniture electronic equipment and other items inside the tents were completely destroyedEyewitnesses said that strong night winds in the desert made it difficult to control the flames which spread swiftly across the camp area The locals used water tankers sand and other available resources to douse the fire before the fire brigade arrived According to police sources a cultural programme was underway at the resort when the fire erupted Tourists were attending a folk music and dance performance in the open courtyard which helped prevent a major tragedy as most guests were outside their tents at the time Five tents were completely gutted while two to three others sustained partial damagePreliminary investigation suggests that the fire was likely caused by a short circuit though the exact cause is yet to be confirmed More details are awaitedPolice called in the FSL team for further examination and the assessment of total damage is currently underway The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fire safety challenges faced by the nearly 150 resorts and camps operating in the Sam Sand Dunes area IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/fire-at-rajasthan-resort-tents-reduced-to-ashes-narrow-escape-for-tourists-645706.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rashtriya-ekta-diwas-spectacular-display-of-patriotism-at-statue-of-unity-645724.html New Delhi Oct 31 The Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations on Friday unfolded in a spectacular display of patriotism and national pride at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar Gujarat The event led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the birth anniversary of Indias first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel the Iron Man who united the nation The grand ceremony began early in the morning as PM Modi paid floral tributes at the 182metretall Statue of Unity and offered prayers to Patel reaffirming his vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat The celebrations then transitioned into a magnificent parade that showcased the strength discipline and unity of Indias security and police forcesThe parade featured contingents from the Border Security Force BSF Central Reserve Police Force CRPF Central Industrial Security Force CISF IndoTibetan Border Police ITBP Sashastra Seema Bal SSB National Security Guard NSG and the National Disaster Response Force NDRF In addition police units from Assam Tripura Odisha Chhattisgarh Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Punjab Jammu amp Kashmir Kerala and Andhra Pradesh participated with great enthusiasmNCC cadets also joined the parade adding youthful energy to the occasionA highlight of the celebration was the participation of five Shaurya Chakra awardees from the CRPF and 16 gallantry medal winners from the BSFPM Modi received a ceremonial salute from 16 BSF personnel who won gallantry medals for their participation in Operation SindoorAmong the most captivating segments was the display by Assam Polices Motorcycle Daredevils who performed breathtaking stunts that drew loud applause from the audience The Gujarat Polices Horse Contingent the BSF Camel Contingent and the camelmounted BSF band added a royal touch to the parade The CRPFs Taekwondo and martial arts performance set to the tune of Vande Mataram reflected the courage and discipline of Indias forcesOne of the parades most heartwarming moments came when the BSFs indigenous dog squad led by Riya a Mudhol Hound and winner of the All India Police Dog Competition demonstrated their operational skills These Indianbred dogs including Rampur and Mudhol Hounds showcased how traditional breeds are now part of the countrys national security frameworkThe cultural segment featured vibrant performances choreographed by renowned artist Manish Pandey including a dance presentation titled Vallabh Sardar Hamare by NCC cadets The NDRF and NSG commandos also performed synchronised drills and rescue demonstrations displaying the nations preparedness in times of crisisTableaux representing Manipur Maharashtra Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand added regional colours to the parade while school bands and artists presented patriotic performances celebrating Indias cultural mosaic IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rashtriya-ekta-diwas-spectacular-display-of-patriotism-at-statue-of-unity-645724.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 10:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/salman-khan-lauds-telanganas-rapid-progress-645763.html Hyderabad Oct 31 Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has met Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy during which he praised the states rapid progress According to the Chief Ministers Office Salman Khan met the Chief Minister in Mumbai on Thursday eveningDuring the cordial meeting Salman Khan lauded the rapid progress and dynamic initiatives of the Telangana government and assured the Chief Minister that he would take the message of Telangana Rising across the world said a statement from the Chief Ministers Office on FridaySalman Khan expressed admiration for the states growth vision and promised to extend his support in promoting Telanganas vibrant image on international platforms it addedThe Telangana government is in the process of preparing Telangana Rising Vision 2047 a longterm development roadmap to guide the states progress towards 2047 when India marks 100 years of independenceThe longterm vision document for the states development is scheduled to be unveiled on December 9 coinciding with the birthday of Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and recognising her contribution to the creation of TelanganaThe plan aims to transform Telangana into a 3 trillion economy by 2047 by focusing on economic and social development with specific goals to reach a 1 trillion economy by 2035The document is being developed with input from citizens and experts to ensure sustainable and inclusive growthOn October 10 the state government launched a survey to capture the aspirations priorities and ideas of people from across the stateThe initiative seeks to define the aspirations and priorities that will guide Telanganas development across key areas such as economic growth skilling and employment women empowerment farmer prosperity innovation sustainability and net zero and an improved quality of life for all citizensEveryone youth farmers women entrepreneurs students professionals and senior citizens is being encouraged to take part in shaping the states visionThe government has also directed its employees and stakeholders to participate in the citizen survey IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/salman-khan-lauds-telanganas-rapid-progress-645763.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-woman-killed-by-minor-school-drop-outs-daughters-role-suspected-645764.html Bengaluru Oct 31 A complaint has been lodged with the police suspecting the involvement of a daughter and her friends in the murder of her mother The complaint was filed by the deceased womans sister at the Subramanyapura Police Station in Bengaluru on Friday and the police have begun an investigation The deceased is identified as 34yearold Netravathi a resident of Uttarahalli near Subramanyapura in Bengaluru Anita K a resident of KTM Layout sister of the deceased has lodged a complaint in this regard against five people including the deceased womans daughter and her friendsAll accused are minors aged between 16 and 17 year and all are school drop outs The deceased woman Nethravathi worked as a helper in V Nest loan recovery companyA case has been registered under Sections 1031 read with 35 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS According to police the incident had taken place between 1030 pm on October 25 and 12 noon on October 27 The complaint was lodged in this regard on the night of October 30According to police the complainant Anita appeared at the station and lodged a complaint stating that on October 27 her younger sister Netravathi was found dead by hanging She expressed suspicion regarding the circumstances of her sisters death Based on her complaint a case was registered at Subramanyapura Police Station as unnatural death under Section 1943iv of BNSSLater on October 29 the complainant again appeared at the station and reported that since the day of her sisters death the deceaseds daughter had been missing Based on this a case was registered under Section 1372 of BNS2023Police stated on October 30 around 130 pm Netravathis daughter returned home and stated that on October 25 around 1030 pm while she and her mother were at home her friends had come over When Netravathi said she would call the police about their visit they strangled her mother with a towel dragged her into another room and hanged her with a saree from the ceiling fanThe daughter claimed that her friends then threatened her with a knife warning her not to tell anyone and left She said she was very frightened and went to stay at her friends house After learning of her mothers death she returned home that dayTherefore it appeared that the deceaseds daughter had left home on last Saturday night and had been hiding somewhere for 34 daysBased on her statement the complainant expressed suspicion that the daughter along with her friends had murdered her sister Netravathi for some reason and hanged her to make it appear as suicide the police statedThe complainant requested that legal action be taken against the accused and justice be given to her sister The police have taken up the case for investigation IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-woman-killed-by-minor-school-drop-outs-daughters-role-suspected-645764.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/isi-trains-over-1-000-iskp-terrorists-to-target-afghan-taliban-raising-fears-of-spillover-into-india-645773.html New Delhi Oct 31 Pakistan has set up four dedicated camps to train terrorists of the Islamic State in large numbers and then send them into Afghanistan to carry out attacks Experts say that Pakistan could gradually divert some of the ISKP terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir Since tensions with the Afghan Taliban escalated Pakistan and the Islamic State Khorasan Province ISKP have come closer as they are fighting a common enemyThe Afghan Taliban and Pakistan have had a falling out over issues over the Durand Line and since then tensions have soaredPakistan has even carried out air strikes in Afghanistan and the Taliban too have responded fiercelyTraining camps in Pakistan specially to train members of the ISKP have been mushrooming in recent monthIntelligence Bureau officials say that the ISI plans to train over a 1000 terrorists of the ISKP with the specific intention that they carry out attacks on the Afghan TalibanVarious forms of training are being imparted the Indian agencies sayTerrorists are being trained to fight on the land so that they can take on the Taliban fighters There are training camps for suicide strikers as well officials sayIt is also learnt that many officers of the Pakistan Army both current and former are involved in the training processThe ISKP since its inception has been in a battle with the Taliban and seeks to overthrow the Taliban regime and rule AfghanistanHowever the ISKP has been no match for the Taliban and hence grabbed the opportunity that Pakistan offered itOfficials say that many ISKP members are being taken into Pakistan from Afghanistan and then are sent to camps in Balochistan and the tribal areas of Khyber PakhtunkhwaThe arrest of one Mohammad by the Afghan security officials also confirmed the claims that Pakistan had become a training ground for ISKP terroristsThe terrorist detained told the security officials that he had undergone ideological and combat training in Pakistans Quetta region He said that when he entered Afghanistan with a fake ID card his name was Mohammad He also said that the ISI had made significant efforts to indoctrinate himWhile the terror camps set up by Pakistan to train ISKP terrorists are solely focussed on Afghanistan officials warn that in the future this could have ramifications for the entire regionIndia is a country of interest for the ISKP and over the next couple of months it could expand its area of operations away from Afghanistan as wellWhen the ISKP was set up its primary focus was on defeating the Taliban The terror group had however made it clear that it was interested in setting up a Caliphate that included IndiaThe terror group has also shown keen interest in fighting in Jammu and KashmirExperts say that Pakistan could gradually divert some of the ISKP terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir The ISI feels that having another terror group in the Valley in addition to the JaisheMohammad and LashkareTayiba would make the battle stronger for themAnother worry for the Indian agencies is that apart from sending in trained fighters of the ISKP there is every chance of a recruitment drive being launchedThe ISKP has in the past hired Indians and trained them in Pakistan Now the ISI would look to recruit from India and then train them in camps in PakistanAt the last count at least 21 people from Kerala left the country and joined the ISKP in Afghanistan They were being trained so that they could be later sent back to India and carry out terror strikes IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/isi-trains-over-1-000-iskp-terrorists-to-target-afghan-taliban-raising-fears-of-spillover-into-india-645773.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 12:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/three-afghan-nationals-arrested-in-kolkata-with-fake-indian-identity-documents-645774.html Kolkata Oct 31 Three Afghan citizens who were residing in Kolkata for some time with fake Indian identity documents have been arrested the city police informed on Friday Based on a complaint registered by the Security Control Organisation the cops arrested the three Afghan citizens identified as Jalat Khan Abdullah Khan and Saheb Khan on Thursday a city police official saidAll of them were presented at a lower court in Kolkata on Thursday and the court remanded them to police custody till November 6It is learnt that all three of them came to Kolkata with valid Indian visas some time back But they did not go back to Afghanistan after the term of their visa to stay in India expired Instead they arranged fake Indian identity documents for them like an Aadhaar card an EPIC card and a PAN card All three of them came to Kolkata at different times with Jalat Khan being the latest to come to the city in 2019 a city police official saidThe police are currently interrogating the trio to squeeze information from them on what prompted them to stay back in Kolkata even after the expiry of their visa terms The investigating officials are also trying to find out from them about the persons who arranged fake Indian identity documents for themEarlier this year the officials of the Enforcement Directorate ED arrested a Pakistani national Azad Mullick from a rented accommodation in the northern outskirts of Kolkata Mullick originally a Pakistani citizen first acquired fake Bangladeshi identity documents to assume a Bangladeshi identity He then used forged Indian documents to become an Indian citizen after which he began running hawala operations and the fake passport racket from his rented accommodation in KolkataEarlier this month ED officials also arrested Mullicks close associate Indu Bhusan Halder who was one of the key technical operators in the fake passports syndicate ED officials are trying to trace the whereabouts of seven suspected Pakistani nationals who allegedly obtained fake Indian passports through the same racket IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/three-afghan-nationals-arrested-in-kolkata-with-fake-indian-identity-documents-645774.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 12:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-wakes-early-to-celebrate-zubeen-gargs-19-year-old-dream-roi-roi-binale-645775.html Guwahati Oct 31 In an unprecedented moment for Assamese cinema theatres across Assam opened their doors as early as 430 am on Friday for the release of Roi Roi Binale the final film of the late music and film icon Zubeen Garg The emotional premiere marked both a cinematic milestone and a heartfelt farewell to the artist who shaped modern Assamese cultureThousands of fans queued outside theatres in Guwahati Jorhat and Dibrugarh long before dawn some standing in the rain to celebrate Gargs longcherished dream projectThe musical romance directed by Rajesh Bhuyan and scripted by Rahul Gautam was conceived nearly two decades ago by Garg who had hoped to create a film filled with music love and hopeThis is Zubeen Das last film as an actor and his most personal dream said BhuyanHe had envisioned this story 19 years ago and was involved in every stage of its creation Today that dream has come true even though hes not here to see itProducer Shyamantak Gautam called the moment bittersweet describing the public response as overwhelmingAt 430 in the morning people were waiting in queues across Assam That shows what Zubeen means to his people he saidRoi Roi Binale is being screened in 91 theatres across the Northeast and nearly 90 more across India the widest release ever for an Assamese filmAdditional screens are being added to meet soaring demand The release comes just six weeks after Gargs sudden death on September 19 which sent shockwaves across the stateThe state government has since ordered a Special Investigation Team SIT probe into the circumstances of his death leading to multiple arrests related to alleged evidence tamperingYet amid grief and speculation Fridays release turned into a collective celebration a testament to the enduring bond between Assam and its most beloved artist As fans sang along to his songs inside packed theatres Roi Roi Binale became more than a movie it became Zubeen Gargs final melody to the world IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-wakes-early-to-celebrate-zubeen-gargs-19-year-old-dream-roi-roi-binale-645775.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 12:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/al-qaeda-issues-lone-wolf-call-in-india-marking-alarming-tactical-shift-645785.html New Delhi Oct 31 The security agencies are keeping a close watch following a call made by the AlQaeda in the SubContinent AQIS to launch lone wolf attacks in India This signals a shift in the functioning of the AQIS which has so far not managed to make the kind of progress it would have wanted to in India The AQIS was launched in 2014 with the sole goal of carrying out strikes in the subcontinent While it was formed in Afghanistan it had stated that its primary focus would be IndiaThe outfit had even spoken about liberating Jammu and Kashmir from India It had even appointed Asim Umar a man from Uttar Pradesh to head its India operationsAt first the AQIS made several attempts to set up modules in Uttar Pradesh Delhi and other parts of North India While the modules were set up they never took off as the AQIS hoped since the Intelligence and security agencies managed to get the better of them This made the terror group change its strategy and hence the call was made to carry out lone wolf attacks in IndiaThe AQIS is more or less following the pattern of the Islamic State which also encourages lone wolves to carry out attacks The decision to go in for lone wolf attacks is because they are investmentfree and the chance of detection is very lowThe arrest of Zubair Hangargekar from Pune by the Maharashtra AntiTerrorism Squad ATS is a clear sign that the AQIS has been encouraging lone wolvesWhile the ATS is still investigating his links to the outfit and whether he was involved in radicalising others prima facie it appears that he was acting aloneAt the time of his arrest the ATS found pictures of him holding an AK47 rifle and also making bombsWhile Zubair Hangargekar originally hails from Solapur he worked in Pune as a specialist in software testing and a database developerThe ATS learnt that he was earning well in the IT firm where he was employed It became clear that he was radicalised by the online propaganda of the AQIS following which he decided to carry out attacksIntelligence Bureau officials said that the call for lone wolf attacks made by the AQIS is a worrisome development When compared to the Islamic State Al Qaeda has more traction in IndiaSince the days of Osama bin Laden Al Qaeda had more traction and when the Islamic State came into the picture the loyal base of Al Qaeda remained intact in IndiaFurther AlQaeda has more reach in India Its ideology is strong in the north south and the northeastern states Hence the latest call is a worrying development and many youth who are radicalised online could follow the message put out by the outfitFollowing the deaths of Bin Laden and Atman alZawahiri many had expected that AlQaeda would be finished While the outfit lay low for a while it gradually started bouncing backThe developments in Mali that signal a complete AlQaeda takeover would have boosted the morale of the rest of the members across the globeSuch events are being cited during online radicalisation sessions as well as the propaganda material that the outfit has been putting outAlQaeda while encouraging its followers to carry out lone wolf attacks says Pick up the truck now not to mow grass but to kill the enemiesIt says There is no need for an IED If you cannot assemble one then run your enemy over with a car The other weapons that the lone wolves can use according to AlQaeda are stones and knives It also encourages its members to push nonbelievers down the building Such material is circulating in large numbers online as the terror group makes a hard push to encourage lone wolves to carry out attacks in India IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/al-qaeda-issues-lone-wolf-call-in-india-marking-alarming-tactical-shift-645785.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 12:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/former-bangalore-university-registrar-arrested-for-sexually-harassing-widow-645790.html Bengaluru Oct 31 Karnataka Police arrested former Bangalore University Registrar Prof BC Mylarappa on Friday on charges of allegedly sexually harassing a widow and threatening her life The Basaveshwaranagar police made the arrest following two complaints filed by the victim An FIR has been registered under Sections 74 75 78 352 and 351 of the BNS Act Mylarappa has been taken for a medical examination and the police are preparing to produce him before the court by the end of the dayAccording to the police the woman whose husband had passed away came into contact with Mylarappa in 2022 and worked at his institutionThe woman has alleged that taking advantage of her being alone the accused began behaving inappropriately with her He allegedly started sending her messages and demanded that she cooperate with himShe further alleged that Mylarappa came to her house repeatedly knocked on her door and demanded that she open it and entertain him Unable to bear the harassment the woman lodged a complaint at the Basaveshwaranagar Police StationWhile the police were investigating the case the woman filed another complaint at the Kamakshipalya Police Station stating that she was being threatened to withdraw her complaint against Mylarappa She alleged that a group of people threatened her saying that if she did not withdraw the complaint her life would be in danger and they also threatened her with an acid attackFollowing these developments and considering the seriousness of the case the police arrested Mylarappa Further investigation is underwayBC Mylarappa is a former registrar of Bangalore University who was removed from the position by the Karnataka High Court in 2012 due to issues like alleged plagiarism and misappropriation of funds After his removal he continued to hold other roles at the university though his appointments have faced challenges and scrutiny including a 2019 directive to the university to remove him from positions like Director of Distance Education and Head of SociologyIn 2019 the Higher Education Department directed Bangalore University to remove him from his positions as Director of the Directorate of Distance Education and Chairman of the Department of Sociology calling his appointment illegal and stating he was not fit to hold any top positionProf Mylarappa a former Chairperson of the Sociology Department was appointed Registrar Administration in November 2011 He was noted as the first Registrar of BU from the Scheduled Caste category and one of the youngest at the timeAfter being forced to quit as Registrar Mylarappa also pursued a political career seeking a ticket to contest in the state Assembly elections from parties like the INC or the JDS IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/former-bangalore-university-registrar-arrested-for-sexually-harassing-widow-645790.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cpi-leaders-are-close-friends-and-brothers-says-ma-baby-as-cpi-645797.html New DelhiThiruvananthapuram Oct 31 CPIM General Secretary MA Baby on Friday described CPI leaders as close friends and brothers asserting that occasional disagreements between the two Left allies were natural and would not affect the unity of the ruling Left Democratic Front LDF in Kerala Baby said the CPIM had decided to put all further action on the PM SHRI issue on hold and refer it to a subcommittee for detailed examinationThe subcommittee will study the issue and bring clarity Until a final decision is reached no further steps will be taken he saidHe added that his personal intervention in the matter was not unusualI had earlier assured the state leadership that the central leadership would extend all necessary support It is natural for me to step in when needed he notedThe remarks come amid recent unease within the LDF after the CPI publicly expressed its reservations over the state governments stance on implementing the Centres PM SHRI scheme in KeralaHowever Baby dismissed speculation about a rift saying Some media outlets tried to project that the front was weakening but the Kerala leadership acted with maturity and composureEmphasising the coalitions cohesion Baby said differences of opinion within an alliance should be viewed in contextIn some situations certain things may be said but both sides understand and take it in the right spirit he remarkedHe also clarified that there was no need to question whether the state leadership had shown any lapse in cautionThose who earlier said that policy had changed have since clarified their statements he pointed outBaby said the CPIM Polit Bureau had not yet taken up the PM SHRI issue for formal discussion adding that it would soon be reviewed at that levelIncidentally the CPI the secondbiggest ally in the Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayanled government was miffed when despite this issue being raised by their cabinet nominees neither Vijayan nor the State Education Minister V Sivankutty addressed their concerns and went ahead by signing the MoU with the Centre IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cpi-leaders-are-close-friends-and-brothers-says-ma-baby-as-cpi-645797.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/petition-in-calcutta-hc-seeks-court-monitored-sir-in-bengal-645798.html Kolkata Oct 31 A petition has been filed in the Calcutta High Court on Friday seeking a courtmonitored Special Intensive Revision SIR in West Bengal Calcutta High Courts division bench of Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Smita Das De has admitted the petitionThe petitioner has also sought the courts intervention so that the time period for conducting the revision exercise is extendedAt the same time the petitioner has prayed for the Calcutta High Courts direction to the Election Commission of India ECI to give a detailed explanation on why the SIR exercise is necessaryThe Chief Election Commissioner CEC Gyanesh Kumar announced SIR for 12 states including West Bengal earlier this week The first stage of the threestage SIR exercise in West Bengal will start from November 4The draft list will be published on December 9 following which any political party or individual voter will be able to register their complaints on the draft list which will be addressed by the ECI the office of the Chief Electoral Officer CEO West BengalFinally on February 7 next year the final voters list will be published by the ECITrinamool Congress has already raised objections about the time period during which the SIR exercise will be conducted The party general secretary and Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee earlier this week claimed that if the genuine objective was to prepare an errorfree electoral roll the revision should be conducted over an adequate period not hastilyTheir aim is not to make the voters list errorfree In reality SIR stands for Silent Invisible Rigging The last time such a revision was carried out in West Bengal it took almost two years to complete the exercise Now they are claiming it will be completed in just two months he saidThe BJP on the other hand has claimed that Trinamool Congress opposition to the revision exercise was out of their fear that the names of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya voters would be deleted from the voters list IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/petition-in-calcutta-hc-seeks-court-monitored-sir-in-bengal-645798.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mohammed-azharuddin-takes-oath-as-telangana-cabinet-minister-645799.html Hyderabad Oct 31 Former Indian cricket captain and Congress leader Mohammed Azharuddin on Friday took oath as a minister in the Telangana Cabinet Governor Jishnu Dev Varma administered the oath of office and secrecy to Azharuddin at a ceremony held at Raj BhavanAzharuddin took the oath in the name of Allah and at the end of the oath raised slogans of Jai Telangana and Jai HindChief Minister A Revanth Reddy Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and other ministers Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar Legislative Council chairman G Sukhender Reddy Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud attended the swearinginAzharuddins son Mohammed Asaduddin who was recently appointed general secretary of TPCC was also presentThe State Cabinet in August decided to nominate Azharuddin as a Member of the Legislative Council MLC under the Governors quotaAzharuddin is likely to be allotted the portfolio of minority welfareA former MP Azharuddin is currently the working president of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee TPCC and a member of its Political Affairs CommitteeThe 62yearold has been inducted into the Cabinet ahead of the November 11 byeelection to the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituencyThe former cricketer who had unsuccessfully contested from his home constituency in 2023 was keen to contest again but the Congress leadership decided to field Naveen Yadav and promised a Cabinet berth to AzharuddinWith Azharuddins swearingin the strength of the State Cabinet has gone up to 16 He will be the first Muslim minister in Revanth Reddys CabinetThe ruling party has been at the receiving end of various sections of the community for not having a single Muslim minister ever since it came to power nearly two years agoAll key Muslim candidates of the Congress party including Azharuddin faced defeat in the 2023 Assembly electionsAzharuddins elevation as a minister is seen as the Congress partys move to reach out to Muslims who constitute about 30 per cent of the electorate in Jubilee HillsInterestingly the BJP had urged the Election Commission not to allow Cabinet expansion as Azharuddin is being made a minister to appease a section of voters in the byeelection The party has termed this a violation of the Model Code of ConductThe Cabinet was formed on December 7 2023 with the swearingin of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and 11 ministersAfter a long delay the Cabinet was expanded on June 8 with the induction of three ministers The Congress leadership however kept three posts vacantThe State Cabinet can have a maximum of 18 ministers including the Chief MinisterAzharuddin was elected to the Lok Sabha from Moradabad constituency in Uttar Pradesh in 2009 a few months after he joined the Congress party The Congress had fielded him from Rajasthans TonSawai Madhopur in 2014 but he lost the electionIn 2018 he was appointed as the Working President of the Telangana Congress He had campaigned for the party in the 2018 Assembly elections but the party did not field him in either the Assembly or Lok Sabha polls IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mohammed-azharuddin-takes-oath-as-telangana-cabinet-minister-645799.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/dharmasthala-case-we-will-consult-law-dept-for-filing-appeal-against-court-relief-to-accused-says-ktaka-hm-645800.html Bengaluru Oct 31 Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara stated on Friday that the Department of Law will be consulted regarding the possibility of filing an appeal against the High Courts order granting interim relief from arrest to the accused activists in connection with the alleged Dharmasthala mass murder case Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru HM Parameshwara responding to a question on the matter said I have not seen the order yet I will discuss the issue with the Department of Law and the Advocate General regarding whether to file an appeal or approach the Supreme CourtIt may be recalled that in connection with the Dharmasthala mass burial case the Karnataka High Court granted interim relief to the activists Girish Mattannavar Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi T Jayanth and Vittal Gowda on ThursdayThe bench headed by Justice Mohammad Nawaz which heard the petition seeking to quash FIR No 392025 registered at the Dharmasthala police station issued an order staying the investigation in the case till November 12 after hearing arguments from both sides The activists had approached the court seeking to quash the FIR against themWhen asked about the submission of the report in the case HM Parameshwara said that the Special Investigation Team SIT had informed that it would submit the report related to the Dharmasthala case today October 31 It may be submitted within a day or two he addedWhen questioned about the availability of the FSL report on the excavated bones in Dharmasthala HM Parameshwara stated that all details would be included in the reportWhen asked about the issue of internal reservation HM Parameshwara clarified There is no confusion regarding internal reservation An Ordinance has to be passed to implement the decision taken on internal reservation We have categorised communities into A B and C groups and an Ordinance is required for thatAfter the Ordinance is passed an Act will be introduced In this context the Chief Minister had recently called a meeting During the meeting it was decided that there is no immediate need to pass the Ordinance and that the Bill could instead be introduced in the state legislature during the Winter Session Instructions have been given to the Law Minister in this regard he saidThe BJP leaders have not understood the matter of internal reservation During their tenure they attempted to address it but only created confusion We have resolved that confusion and are now working to strengthen it through legal means HM Parameshwara stated IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/dharmasthala-case-we-will-consult-law-dept-for-filing-appeal-against-court-relief-to-accused-says-ktaka-hm-645800.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 13:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-chhattisgarhs-cultural-extravaganza-with-star-studded-lineup-tomorrow-645805.html Raipur Oct 31 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Rajat Mahotsav Silver Jubilee of Chhattisgarhs foundation day at the Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Commerce and Trade Complex on Saturday launching a festival that blends the states rich tribal heritage with national artistic brilliance under the theme of unity and cultural pride Chhattisgarh is all set to mark its silver jubilee with a grand fiveday cultural extravaganza from November 1 to 5 in Nava Raipur celebrating 25 years since the states formation on November 1 2000The main stage will come alive each evening with renowned artists from across India including Hansraj Raghuvanshi Aditya Narayan Ankit Tiwari Kailash Kher and Bhoomi Trivedi alongside local talentsThe festivities begin on Saturday at 11 am with a performance by Aishwarya Pandit followed by an 8 pm lineup featuring PC Lal Yadav Aaru Sahu Dushyant Harmukh Nirmala Thakur and Hansraj Raghuvanshi with his soulful bhajansOn November 2 cultural programmes start at 630 pm with Sunil Tiwari Jayshree Nairs Chinhari The Girl Band and Padma Shri Domar Singh Kanwars Nacha Dal leading into Aditya Narayans headline performance at 9 pm filled with Bollywood hitsThe third day will showcase programmes starting at 6 pm with Padma Shri Usha Barle Rakesh Sharma Sufi bhajans and Kuleshwar Tamrakars folk music and at 9 pm Bhoomi Trivedi will present her vibrant melodiesThe fourth day November 4 will begin at 6 pm with the Kala Kendra Raipur Band Rekha Dewar and Prakash Awasthi followed by Ankit Tiwari at 9 pm delivering emotional chartbustersThe festival concludes on November 5 with performances starting at 6 pm by Poonam Virat Tiwari and the Indira Kala Sangeet University ensemble culminating in Kailash Khers powerful Sufifolk fusion at 9 pm followed by a spectacular aerial display by the Indian Air Forces Surya Kiran Aerobatic TeamParallel to the main stage the Shilpgram venue will host a daily celebration of grassroots artistry IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-chhattisgarhs-cultural-extravaganza-with-star-studded-lineup-tomorrow-645805.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ask-shivakumar-says-cm-siddaramaiah-on-bluru-pothole-deadline-ending-today-645807.html Bengaluru Oct 31 Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has refused to comment on the deadline set for filling potholes in Bengaluru which will end on Friday midnight saying that it is for Deputy CM DK Shivakumar who also holds the Bengaluru Development portfolio to answer CM Siddaramaiah made the statement at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Friday When reporters asked him about the expiry of the pothole repair deadline he replied Please ask DK Shivakumar and walked away The reaction by CM Siddaramaiah amid the infighting within the ruling Congress party has led to speculations and talks in state political corridorsIt can be noted that earlier the Chief Minister had directed officials to fill all potholes in Bengaluru within a week reiterating an earlier order that set October 31 as the deadline for completing road repairs within the citys corporation limits The directive came after a fatal accident on October 24 that claimed the life of a 26yearold banker the second potholerelated death in less than a monthDeputy Chief Minister Shivakumar had stated that over 10000 potholes had been filled so far in Bengaluru He also referred to an affidavit filed by the previous BJP government led by former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai which mentioned that the city had approximately 20000 potholesShivakumar further said that the authorities had given the public and traffic police an opportunity to identify and report additional potholes claiming that the government was working transparentlyCaptains of the IT industry in Bengaluru including Biocon Chief Kiran MazumdarShaw and former Infosys Chief Financial Officer CFO Mohandas Pai have criticised the Congressled Karnataka government over the citys poor road infrastructure and expressed concern that industries were shifting to other statesHowever Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar maintained that IT companies cannot blackmail the government Ministers MB Patil and Priyank Kharge also targeted Kiran MazumdarShaw stating that she raises her voice only in Karnataka and that if she had made similar remarks in BJPruled states such as Uttar Pradesh or Maharashtra she would have faced severe backlash IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ask-shivakumar-says-cm-siddaramaiah-on-bluru-pothole-deadline-ending-today-645807.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jobs-skill-centres-msme-parks-msp-guarantee-24-promises-in-ndas-bihar-sankalp-patra-645814.html Patna Oct 31 The National Democratic Alliance NDA on Friday officially released its joint manifesto the Sankalp Patra in Patna for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections The event held at Hotel Maurya brought together all key alliance partners on one stage Chief Minister Nitish Kumar BJP national president JP Nadda LJPRV chief Chirag Paswan HAM patron Jitan Ram Manjhi and RLM president Upendra Kushwaha symbolising the coalitions unityThe 69page manifesto outlines 24 promises made by the NDA blocAfter releasing the manifesto senior leaders Nitish Kumar JP Nadda Chirag Paswan and Jitan Ram Manjhi departed for campaign events while Samrat Choudhary fielded media questionsHe emphasised that the Sankalp Patra is not merely a list of promises but a document of trust pledging that the NDA will lead Bihar out of backwardness and into an era of rapid growthThe release of the NDA manifesto comes just days after the Grand Alliance Mahagathbandhan unveiled its own vision document on October 28 led by Tejashwi YadavThe NDA contesting all 243 seats has finalised its seatsharing formula BJP 101 seats JDU 101 LJP Ram Vilas 29 HAM 6 and RLM 6Described as a roadmap for a Developed Bihar the manifesto contains employment womens empowerment agriculture infrastructure and social welfareEmployment amp EconomyThe NDA has promised for creation of over one crore jobs and employment opportunities in five years the launch of the developed Bihar Industrial Mission with an investment of Rs one lakh crore the establishment of factories in every district 10 new industrial parks and modern projects such as IT semiconductor and defence corridorsIt has targeted to attract Rs 50 lakh crore in investment to make Bihar a global backend hub and a newage economy centreWomens empowermentSamrat Choudhary mentioned that the NDA leaders have pledged to make one crore women Lakhpati Didis provide financial assistance up to Rs two lakh for women entrepreneurs and launch Mission Crorepati to promote womens entrepreneurshipEducation sectorAs per the manifesto Samrat Choudhary elaborated on the plan of the NDA in the education sector and provided free education from KG to PG for children from poor families the establishment of model and residential schools and modern skill labs in every districtFarmers and rural developmentChoudhary mentioned that when the NDA would form the government after November 14 it would introduce Karpoori Thakur Kisan Samman Nidhi offer farmers Rs 9000 annually Rs 3000 per instalment guarantee MSP for all crops make a Rs one lakh crore investment in agricultural infrastructure and strengthen fisheries and dairy missions for rural growthSocial justice amp welfareThe NDA has pledged Rs 10 lakh financial aid for EBC communities including Tanti Nishad Kewat Bind Nonia Mallah Teli Kumhar and Lohar The formation of a highlevel committee led by a retired Supreme Court judge to assess their socioeconomic conditionsThe NDA has also pledged five guarantees for the poor people of Bihar including 5kg free ration 125 units of free electricity to every household free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh 50 lakh pucca houses and social security pension for all eligible citizensInfrastructure and transportThe NDA has mentioned in the manifesto to launch metro services in Patna Gaya Darbhanga and Bhagalpur within five years and a flood resilience board for disasterprone areas integrating water conservation and fisheriesCulture and faithThe NDA leadership has pledged to the development of Maa Janaki Temple into a worldclass spiritual site with a new Sitapuram Spiritual City in Sitamarhi the establishment of Sharda Sinha Art and Cultural University and Bihar Film City IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jobs-skill-centres-msme-parks-msp-guarantee-24-promises-in-ndas-bihar-sankalp-patra-645814.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/fan-murder-case-court-adjourns-framing-of-charges-against-darshan-others-till-november-3-645820.html Bengaluru Oct 31 The trial court hearing the sensational fan murder case on Friday adjourned the process of framing charges against jailed Kannada superstar Darshan his partner Pavithra Gowda and others till November 3 The court issued the order after considering a plea by Darshans counsel who argued that the actor needed to be informed about the process of framing chargesDarshans counsel Sunil submitted to the court that his client had not been properly informed about the procedure for framing chargesHe stated that if Darshan were to agree to the charges without being adequately informed it could create legal complications in the future He therefore requested the court to fix another date for the framing of chargesThe court directed the counsel to visit Darshan in prison and brief him about the matter It also noted the absence of two accused and warned that if they fail to appear warrants will be issued against them as the presence of all accused is mandatory during the framing of chargesDarshan his partner Pavithra Gowda and the other accused were produced before the court through video conferencing on FridayThe court has adjourned the hearing to November 3Once the charges are framed the court will begin the trial and examine the witnesses After the conclusion of this process the court will pronounce its verdictDarshan Pavithra Gowda and 15 others were arrested on June 11 2024 on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy a fan from Chitradurga Renukaswamy allegedly sent derogatory and obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda which infuriated DarshanThe actor was shifted to Ballari Prison after photos of his alleged royal treatment at Bengaluru Central Prison surfaced He currently faces three FIRs related to the case The police submitted a 3991page charge sheet on September 4 2024 along with an additional charge sheet to the courtDarshan was released from prison on October 30 2024 after spending 131 days in custody Following the appeal by Karnataka Police the Supreme Court cancelled the bail and Darshan his partner Pavithra Gowda and others were arrested againSources said that Pavithra Gowda competed with Darshans wife Vijayalaxmi over jewellery and luxury cars She allegedly pressured Darshan to make public appearances with her after he had been seen with his wifePavithra Gowda and Vijayalaxmi also had spats on social media which led Darshans fans to take sides and attack one of the women Renukaswamy who supported Vijayalaxmi criticised and sent vulgar messages to Pavithra Gowda which ultimately led to his brutal death according to police findings IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/fan-murder-case-court-adjourns-framing-of-charges-against-darshan-others-till-november-3-645820.html Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/salma-dam-perfect-example-of-india-afghan-cooperation-on-water-matters-mea-645633.html New Delhi Oct 30 India on Thursday highlighted its ongoing cooperation with Afghanistan on water matters calling the Salma Dam as a perfect example of this longlasting partnership between the two nations Addressing a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on Thursday Ministry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal recalled Afghanistan Foreign Minister Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqis recent visit to India stating that the joint statement mentioned Indias readiness to support Afghanistans efforts towards sustainable management of water resources including hydroelectric projectsWe had the Foreign Minister of Afghanistan He visited India recently as part of the visit we had issued a joint statement between both countries This particular joint statement clearly emphasises that India stands ready to support all efforts of Afghanistan that are directed towards sustainable management of water resources including hydroelectric projects Jaiswal said in response to a question on whether India will consider funding construction of a dam in the Kunar provinceYou also would know that between the two countries there has been a long history of cooperation on water matters The Salma Dam for example is a perfect example of this cooperation which is today called IndiaAfghanistan friendship dam he addedJaiswals statement comes after Kabul recently announced its plans to build dams on the Kunar river as soon as possible a move which is likely to create unease in IslamabadIn a statement shared on X Talibans Deputy Information Minister Muhajer Farahi stated His Eminence Amir alMumineen referring to Taliban Supreme Leader Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada has instructed the Ministry of Water and Energy to begin construction of dams on the Kunar River as soon as possible and to sign contracts with domestic companies and not wait for foreign companiesThe Chitral River also known in Afghanistan as the Kunar River is a 480kilometrelong river in northern Pakistan and eastern Afghanistan It originates from the Chiantar glacier located at the border of Gilgit Baltistan and Chitral in Pakistan At Arandu it enters Afghanistan where it is called the Kunar River It later merges with the Kabul River in Nangahar Province of Afghanistan The river system is fed by melting glaciers and snow of the Hindu Kush mountainsOn October 10 India and Afghanistan underscored the importance of sustainable water management and agreed to cooperate on hydroelectric projects with a view to addressing energy needs of KabulThe joint statement released following talks between External Affairs Minister EAM S Jaishankar and his Afghan counterpart Muttaqi stated Appreciating Indias assistance in construction and maintenance of IndiaAfghanistan Friendship Dam Salma Dam in Herat both sides also underscored the importance of sustainable water management and agreed to cooperate on hydroelectric projects with a view to addressing Afghanistans energy needs and support its agricultural development IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/salma-dam-perfect-example-of-india-afghan-cooperation-on-water-matters-mea-645633.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 18:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-medical-college-doctors-threaten-indefinite-strike-over-govt-apathy-645634.html Thiruvananthapuram Oct 30 The Kerala Government Medical College Teachers Association KGMCTA has accused the state government of turning a blind eye to the longpending demands of medical college doctors even as the Cabinet announced a slew of welfare measures in its latest meeting The association on Thursday said the continued neglect of medical college doctors who shoulder both patient care and teaching responsibilities was deeply unjust and warned of launching an indefinite strike if the government failed to interveneKGMCTA said none of its key demands had been addressed despite repeated assurancesThese include rectifying anomalies in the entrylevel pay structure clearing arrears from the 2016 pay revision creating new teaching and medical posts in recently established colleges improving hospital infrastructure releasing pending dearness allowance DA dues and lifting what it called an unfair pension ceiling imposed on statepaid facultyThe association pointed out that pay anomalies affecting Assistant Professors have made government service unattractive pushing young doctors toward the private sectorAlthough the 2016 pay revision was implemented belatedly in 2020 arrears remain unpaid even as other state employees have received their full duesIt is deeply regrettable that doctors who risked their lives during the Covid crisis and brought pride to the state have been completely ignored the statement saidKGMCTA also criticised the governments failure to sanction new posts in medical colleges at Kasaragod and WayanadFiles related to post creation have been gathering dust in the Health and Finance departments for over a year despite repeated government promises it notedThe association added that imposing a pension ceiling aligned to state scales while medical college doctors draw centralscale salaries was unjust and demoralisingWarning of stronger action KGMCTA said its Central Executive Committee would convene soon to decide on an indefinite strike if the government continued its indifference IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-medical-college-doctors-threaten-indefinite-strike-over-govt-apathy-645634.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/129-more-test-positive-for-dengue-in-manipur-case-tally-rises-to-3-594-this-year-645635.html Imphal Oct 30 At least 129 more people tested positive for dengue taking the total number of vectorborne cases to 3594 this year officials said on Thursday According to a report released by S Priyokumar Singh State Malaria Officer National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme at least 3594 people have tested positive for dengue in the state this year while a patient died in the states Bishnupur districtSingh in his report said that they have been following the guidelines of the central National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme NVBDCP in curbing the outbreak of dengue in the state since JanuaryAccording to a report by the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control under the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry 2463 cases of dengue were reported last year 2024 and five people died due to the viral diseaseThe Health and Family Welfare Department report stated that the 3594 positive cases were detected between January 1 and October 28 this year out of 7883 people tested for the diseaseOf the states 16 administrative districts comprising valley and hilly regions Imphal West reported the highest number of cases at 2507 followed by Imphal East 655 Bishnupur 102 Thoubal 84 Senapati 63 Kakching 45 and Ukhrul 44 and Chandel 25Among the most affected areas Imphal West Imphal East Bishnupur and Thoubal districts fall within the heavily populated Imphal Valley region while Senapati Kakching Ukhrul and Chandel districts are located in the mountainous regionsThe mixedpopulated district of Jiribam along southern Assam reported only one positive dengue case so farThe only denguerelated death was reported in Bishnupur district in the Manipur valley region the report said Another official of the Health and Family Welfare Department said that as per the guidelines of the NVBDCP the department in collaboration with other agencies has been working to curb the spread of the diseaseRising number of dengue cases especially in the Imphal valley region highlights growing concerns over the spread of the disease the official said and attributed the surge to prolonged monsoon rain and stagnant water accumulation that led to create ideal breeding conditions for the Aedes mosquitoThe Health and Family Welfare Department has intensified vector control measures including fogging operations and public awareness campaigns across affected areasVarious authorities including Municipal bodies and Urban Development Department have urged people to keep their surroundings clean remove stagnant water and use mosquito repellents and nets to curb further transmissionOfficials have also advised people showing symptoms such as high fever body aches and rashes to seek immediate medical advice to prevent complications IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/129-more-test-positive-for-dengue-in-manipur-case-tally-rises-to-3-594-this-year-645635.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/housing-colonies-for-weaker-sections-being-developed-jampk-govt-645636.html Srinagar Oct 30 JampK government told the legislative assembly on Thursday that colonies for economically weaker sections of the society are being developed across various districts to ease the housing problem The Jammu and Kashmir Government has initiated several housing projects under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban to address the growing problem of urban congestionThe Housing and Urban Development Department informed the Legislative Assembly on ThursdayReplying to a starred question No 198 raised by senior NC MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar the government said that new housing colonies for the economically weaker sections EWS are being developed across various districts of the Union TerritoryThe reply stated that 760 flats for EWS are under construction at Bhalwal in Jammu while 304 flats are being built at Chakhar Sundli in UdhampurThe department further informed that the JampK Housing Board has identified state land in different districts for additional flat accommodations under PMAY U 20Land at 10 locations across the Union Territory has already been transferred to the Housing Board for the development of housing colonies for the general public including EWSAffordable rental housingflats under the Affordable Rental Housing ARH vertical are also being provisioned for the urban poor in Jammu City the reply addedJampK Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently introduced a bill in the legislative assembly Rent Authority regularity bill to protect the interests of landlords and tenants and to provide a speedy adjudication mechanism for the resolution of disputes and matters connected therewith or incidental theretoThe Bill has already been published in an extraordinary issue of the Official Gazette the Chief Minister had said while introducing the BillSubsequently Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Abdul Rahim Rather placed the Bill before the House for consideration IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/housing-colonies-for-weaker-sections-being-developed-jampk-govt-645636.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-eps-denies-alliance-talks-with-vijays-tvk--645639.html Chennai Oct 30 AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami on Thursday hit out at dissident leaders KA Sengottaiyan O Panneerselvam and TTV Dhinakaran accusing them of betraying the party and functioning as the DMKs B team His comments came hours after Sengottaiyan joined the two expelled leaders to jointly pay homage at the Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar memorial in Ramanathapuram a move that has triggered fresh turmoil within the AIADMK The three leaders garlanded Thevars statue together and performed arti using the same plate marking an open display of unity that sent shockwaves through the AIADMK ranks Sengottaiyans participation was particularly significant since though stripped of his organisational posts he continues as a primary member of the party Speaking to reporters in Madurai Palaniswami said those aligning with the DMK were going against the legacy of AIADMK founder MG Ramachandran and former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa Panneerselvam said recently that the DMK will come to power again in 2026 These people are acting as the DMKs B team Because of such betrayers the AIADMK could not return to power in 2021 he said Asked about Sengottaiyans actions Palaniswami warned that disciplinary action would be taken against anyone working against the partys interests Whoever acts against the party will face action The AIADMK cannot be defeated by betrayers he said adding that it was a waste of time to discuss Sengottaiyan OPS and Dhinakaran coming together Responding to questions about a series of electoral defeats under his leadership Palaniswami said the AIADMK had successfully ruled for 10 years while the DMK had been reduced to a poor showing in 2011 Despite being led by Karunanidhi the DMK couldnt even be the principal opposition party Yet the media keeps attacking us whether we are in power or opposition he remarked Palaniswami also dismissed reports of any alliance talks with actor Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK for the 2026 Assembly elections We have not held discussions with TVK nor have they approached us This is purely a media creation he clarified The days developments have once again laid bare the deep factional fissures within the AIADMK with Sengottaiyans move seen as a direct challenge to Palaniswamis leadership one that could soon invite disciplinary action IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-eps-denies-alliance-talks-with-vijays-tvk--645639.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-firms-get-licenses-to-import-rare-earth-magnets-from-china-645640.html New Delhi Oct 30 Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday that some Indian companies have received licenses for importing rare earth magnets from China At least three Indian companiesContinental India Hitachi and Jay Ushinhave received initial government approval to import the magnets These firms supply components for Indias automotive and electronics industriesThis is the first set of clearances since Beijing imposed tight controls on the export of these magnets earlier in April The move is intended to alleviate supply issues that have impacted key industries in IndiaJaiswal also said We have to look at how the US and China talks will play into our domainThe import licenses have specific conditions attached The imported magnets cannot be reexported to the United States and cannot be used for defencerelated purposesThe MEA had previously confirmed in June 2025 that it was in discussions with China to secure the supply of rare earth materials and bring predictability to the trade supply chainThe Indian government and industry bodies have been working to find a solution to the supply bottlenecks The automotive sector especially manufacturers of electric vehicles EVs was particularly affected by the export restrictions This initial grant of licenses is expected to ease some of the pressureMeanwhile US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced that he and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed on a oneyear deal for the supply of crucial rare earth materialsThe announcement came after the two leaders met at Busan in South Korea on the sidelines of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders Meeting their first inperson meeting in six yearsTrump said the agreement will be renewed annually and represents significant progress in the countries strained trade relationshipAll the rare earths have been settled and thats for the world Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One after the meetingHe added that he had also agreed to reduce fentanylrelated tariffs on China from 20 per cent to 10 per cent describing the meeting with Xi as a 12 out of 10Trump said A lot of things we brought to finalisation and praised the Chinese President as a tremendous leader of a very powerful country IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-firms-get-licenses-to-import-rare-earth-magnets-from-china-645640.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/serving-cow-everyones-moral-responsibility-says-haryana-cm-on-gopashtami-645641.html Chandigarh Oct 30 Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday said cow devotees must lead a public awareness campaign for the protection of cows as serving them is everyones moral responsibility He appealed to the people not to abandon cows on roads and to actively participate in efforts to make gaushalas cow shelters selfreliantHe also urged the residents to use products made from cow dung and cow urine The Chief Minister announced a grant of Rs 21 lakh from his discretionary fund to Shri Krishna Gaushala in Karnal where he was speaking at the Gopashtami celebrationsExtending greetings on Gopashtami he said this sacred day of the Indian Sanatan tradition connects people with culture brotherhood and compassionGopashtami is not merely a festival but a symbol of kindness service and a sense of dutyCM Saini said the cow holds both social and spiritual significance and has always been associated with wealth and prosperity In ancient times a persons wealth was measured by the number of cows they ownedAccording to mythology Kamadhenu the divine cow was one of the 14 precious gems that emerged from the churning of the ocean by gods and demonsAnother legend narrates that when Lord Shri Krishna lifted the Govardhan mountain to protect the cowherds Lord Indra on the eighth day sought his refuge Indra then performed the abhishek anointing of Lord Krishna with Kamadhenu and bestowed upon him the title of Govind Since then the eighth day is celebrated as GopashtamiThe Chief Minister said the cow is considered a divine and spiritual being and is revered as a motherCows milk is regarded as equivalent to nectar Scientific studies have proven that the milk of indigenous desi cows is highly beneficial for health and is considered as nutritious as mothers milkCM Saini said the government has taken several initiatives for the development of gaushalas protection of cattle and promotion of natural farmingEleven years ago the Gau Seva Aayog received only Rs 2 crore in grants but after the BJP government came to power this amount has continuously increasedThe government has now allocated Rs 600 crore for cow protection and promotion He said in 2014 there were 215 registered gaushalas in the state housing 175 lakh cattle while today there are 686 gaushalas with over four lakh cattleThe process of purchasing 800 erickshaws for gaushalas is underway The government is also providing electricity to gaushalas at Rs 2 per unit and stamp duty on land registration for gaushalas has been abolishedHe said strict laws have been enacted to ensure the safety of cows There is a provision for 10 years of imprisonment for cow slaughter and seven years for cow smuggling he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/serving-cow-everyones-moral-responsibility-says-haryana-cm-on-gopashtami-645641.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/milestone-for-icg-keel-laying-of-2-fast-patrol-vessels-held-at-mazagon-dock-645643.html Mumbai Oct 30 The Keel Laying of second Fast Patrol Vessel FPV and Plate Cutting of fifth FPV under the 14 FPV Project for the Indian Coast Guard ICG took place at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited MDL here on Thursday an official said In addition to this the Girder Laying Ceremonies for the second and third indigenously built Air Cushion Vehicles ACVs for ICG was held at Chowgules Rassaim Yard GoaThe contract for design and construction of 14 FPVs with an indigenous content of 60 per cent was inked on January 24 2024 the Defence Ministry official said in a statementEach FPV is equipped with indigenously built gearboxes These waterjet propelled vessels have an approximate displacement of 340 tonne and are designed for coastal security search and rescue and law enforcement operationsThe vessels will also feature stateoftheart machinery including AIbased predictive maintenance systems and multipurpose drones underscoring the integration of advanced technologies into Indias maritime defence capabilities said the statementThe contract for six ACVs signed on October 24 2024 are based on the proven Griffon Hoverwork UK design with over 50 per cent indigenous contentCapable of highspeed patrolling reconnaissance interception interdiction and allweather search and rescue operations the ACVs will serve as agile force multipliers ensuring swift response and seamless mobility across shallow waters marshes and open seasOnce commissioned they will represent a technological leap in Indias coastal security infrastructure said the Defence Ministry officialThe FPVs and ACVs are being built in consonance with the nations vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and will greatly augment the ICGs presence in the Indian Ocean Region IOR said the officialThe Indian Coast Guard came into being on February 1 1977 as an auxiliary service for Maritime Law Enforcement and undertaking Safety and Protection tasks in Indian watersIt is tasked to protect our ocean and offshore wealth including oil fish and minerals assist mariners in distress and safeguard life and property at sea and enforce maritime laws with respect to sea poaching smuggling and narcoticsThe ICG is also involved in preserving marine environment and ecology protect rare species and to collect scientific data and backup the navy during war IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/milestone-for-icg-keel-laying-of-2-fast-patrol-vessels-held-at-mazagon-dock-645643.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/stalin-now-invites-non-allies-for-nov-2-all-party-meeting-on-sir-645644.html Chennai Oct 30 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin has directed his party to extend invitations to not just alliance partners but also to political leaders outside the DMKled front for the allparty meeting scheduled on November 2 to discuss the Election Commissions special voter roll revision in the State The Election Commission of India ECI has announced that the Special Intensive Revision SIR of Tamil Nadus electoral rolls will commence on November 4 The DMK and its allies have strongly opposed the move alleging that it could be politically motivated To discuss a collective response Stalin has convened an allparty meeting at the Accord Star Hotel in Chennai on Saturday Following the Chief Ministers instruction senior DMK leaders including headquarters secretary Poochi Murugan Port Kaja and Austin have been personally visiting the offices of various political parties to hand over invitation letters DMKs P Murugan met TVK general secretary Pusi Anand at the party office in Panayur and invited him to attend the meeting He also visited the offices of Makkal Needhi Maiam leader Kamal Haasan TMC chief GK Vasan DMDK leader Premalatha Vijayakanth Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi chief Thol Thirumavalavan actorpolitician Karunas of the Mukkulathor Tiger Force and the Communist Party of India and CPIM headquarters to extend formal invitations Another DMK team led by general secretary Harupram Kaja handed over invites to Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president Selvaperunthagai Naam Tamilar Katchi coordinator Seeman MDMK chief Vaiko Dravidar Kazhagam president K Veeramani Kongunadu Makkal Desiya Katchi leader Easwaran Tamil Nadu Vazhvurimai Katchis Velmurugan IUMLs Kader Moideen Nellai Mubarak Thameemun Ansari Jawahirullah and Jana Pandian among others DMK functionary Austin has also been distributing invitation letters across Chennai Invitations have reportedly been sent to about 60 political leaders including PMK founder Dr S Ramadoss AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam Pon Kumar and Basheer Ahmed However sources in the DMK headquarters clarified that AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami BJP State president Nainar Nagenthran and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss were the only three leaders not invited to the meeting Meanwhile political observers said that TVK leader Vijays party executives are expected to attend despite his recent sharp criticism of both the DMK and Stalin IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/stalin-now-invites-non-allies-for-nov-2-all-party-meeting-on-sir-645644.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-tunnel-project-shivakumar-calls-tejasvi-surya-immature-waste-material-645645.html Bengaluru Oct 30 Amid row over Karnataka tunnel project Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar launched a sharp attack on Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya calling him immature inexperienced and a waste material Talking to reporters in Bengaluru Shivakumar said Tejasvi Surya is still a boy and lacks experienceWho is this Tejasvi Surya to say that the Tunnel Road project should not be implemented Let him become a Union Minister first and then move a resolution in Parliament banning tunnel roads across the country and the world he saidWhen asked about Tejasvi Suryas statement that the Tunnel Road project should have been planned after consulting experts Shivakumar said Out of courtesy I allowed him to meet and speak and now he goes around saying whatever he wants But I wont stoop to his level and comment on him Tejasvi Surya doesnt even understand how the world functionsWhy is he travelling in a car Shivakumar asked sarcasticallyI had once said that girls dont marry boys who dont own a car He has clung to that statement Why is he driving around in a car then Let him and his family members travel by metro or government buses Let BJP MLAs use metro trains autorickshaws and public transport Who has said no to that Why do they need cars then Bengaluru has over 13 crore vehicles can anyone tell all of them to stop using their vehicles he counteredWhen asked about Tejasvi Suryas purported remark that the tunnel road project was being undertaken to help Shivakumar get his daughter married the Deputy CM shot back Thats exactly why I called him immature Can you journalists carry cameras and travel in public transport to cover events Can schoolchildren be sent to school using public transport instead of school vehiclesThis state got the metro because of us What did they do when they were in power What did they bring from the Centre How many pillars did they erect for the metro How much money did they get The Central government contributes only 11 to 12 per cent of the project cost We bear all the expenses including land acquisition Shivakumar saidShivakumar said he will respond if senior BJP leaders R Ashoka CN Ashwath Narayan Basavaraj Bommai or Jagadish Shettar point out something as they understand these matters IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-tunnel-project-shivakumar-calls-tejasvi-surya-immature-waste-material-645645.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-charge-sheets-11-arrested-accused-in-suhas-shetty-murder-case-645646.html New Delhi Oct 30 The National Investigation Agency NIA has chargesheeted 11 arrested accused in the Suhas Shetty murder case the investigating agency said on Thursday   The 11 accused were chargesheeted on Wednesday and their chargesheet is filed before the NIA Special Court Bengaluru Karnataka under various sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act 1967 Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 and the Arms Act 1959Notably Suhas Shetty was brutally hacked to death by seven persons armed with lethal weapons including swordsmachetes on May 1 2025The shocking targeted killing was carried out in full public view to instil fear and to spread terror in the society the NIA said in its press noteNIA which took over the case on the directives of the Ministry of Home Affairs found a larger conspiracy behind the targeted killingAccording to the NIA it further found during investigations that Suhas Shettys activities were meticulously tracked over several months as part of the elaborate conspiracy and on the fateful day seven accused in two cars trailed Suhas Shettys Innova carThe accused caused a deliberate accident on the Innova car driven by Suhas Shetty followed by intentional ramming by another vehicle thereby blocking all escape routes for Suhas Shetty and his friends Suhas Shetty was forced to flee on foot and was chased and hacked to death by the assailants it saidAs per NIA investigations in the case RC012025NIABLR the terror plot was hatched by accused Abdul Safwan Kalavaru Safwan Chopu Safwan an exmember of the banned Popular Front of India PFI along with Niyaz alias Niya Mohammed Musamir Mahamed Musameer Mohammad Muzammil Noushad Vamanjoor Noushad Chotte Noushad Chotu another exKFD amp PFI member and Adil MaharoofAccused Adil Maharoof alias Adil had provided the funds which were used to recruit other accused on the promise of payment or by exploiting any previous existing enmity with the victim it saidAll five mentioned above along with Kalandar Shafi alias Mande Shafi M Nagaraja alias Naga Ranjith Mahammed Rizwan alias Rijju Azaruddin alias Azar and Abdul Khader alias Noufal are named in the chargesheet filedInvestigation against another arrested accused Abdul Razak is underway IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-charge-sheets-11-arrested-accused-in-suhas-shetty-murder-case-645646.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/major-disaster-averted-at-sangam-barrage-as-ndrf-pulls-out-heavy-boat-645650.html Amaravati Oct 30 A major disaster was averted at the Sangam Barrage across Penna River in Andhra Pradeshs Nellore district on Thursday as a 35tonne boat stuck in the barrage was pulled out by the NDRF teams It was one of three boats used for sand collection which were swept away by strong currents following heavy rain due to Cyclone Montha on WednesdayWhile two boats were brought to the shore on Wednesday by the teams of National Disaster Response Force NDRF the third one remained stuck and there was a danger of it ramming into the anicutNDRF swimmers and team members worked for about 12 hours to pull it out skilfully They tied the boat on both sides to three heavy boats with ropes and locked it with an anchorDistrict Collector Himanshu Shukla Superintendent of Police Ajitha Vejendla and other officials monitored the situationThirty personnel each of NDRF and SDRF 100 policemen Krishnapatnam Port Patrol staff and Fire and Irrigation officials participated in the operationThe ropes of the three boats tied to the bridge railing snapped due to the rising floodwaters on Wednesday The freed boats quickly moved towards the barrageOne of the three boats stuck the sand jetty area and got stuck while another reached the Kanigiri reservoir The third boat was stuck at the crest of the old dam about 400 metres upstream of the barrageSince the third boat weighed 35 tonnes it was difficult to pull it out After strenuous efforts by NDRF teams along with others for 12 hours it was finally pulled outCollector Himanshu Shukla congratulated the NDRF teamOfficials said if the NDRF teams had not controlled the sweptaway boats there would have been massive destruction at the barrage and lowlying areas would have been severely inundatedThe Sangam Barrage which has 85 gates irrigates 385 lakh acres of fallow land in Nellore district Officials said if it were damaged the water would have been wasted and farmers would have suffered losses in the coming season IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/major-disaster-averted-at-sangam-barrage-as-ndrf-pulls-out-heavy-boat-645650.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 19:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/reliance-partners-google-to-accelerate-indias-ai-revolution-645652.html New Delhi Oct 30 Reliance Industries Limited RIL on Thursday announced an expansive strategic partnership between Google and its artificial intelligence AI focused subsidiary Reliance Intelligence Limited to accelerate AI adoption across India Under the collaboration Google in partnership with Reliance Intelligence will begin rolling out Googles AI Pro plan with the latest version of Google Gemini to eligible Jio users free of charge for 18 monthsThis offer includes higher access to Googles most capable Gemini 25 Pro model in the Gemini app higher limits to generate stunning images and videos with their stateoftheart Nano Banana and Veo 31 models expanded access to Notebook LM for study and research 2 TB of cloud storage and moreThis 18month offer is worth Rs 35100 Eligible Jio users will also be able to easily activate this offer via the MyJio appReflecting Jios commitment to empowering Indias youth the rollout will commence with early access for 18 to 25yearold users on unlimited 5G plans and will swiftly expand to include every Jio customer nationwide in the shortest time possible RIL saidThis partnership will also explore bringing more delightful local experiences powered by AI to Jio users catering to Indias rich cultural and linguistic diversityAdditionally the collaboration brings together Reliances scale connectivity and ecosystem reach with Googles worldclass AI technologyempowering consumers enterprises and developersReliance Intelligence aims to make intelligence services accessible to 145 billion Indians Through our collaboration with strategic and longterm partners like Google we aim to make India not just AIenabled but AIempowered where every citizen and enterprise can harness intelligent tools to create innovate and grow Mukesh Ambani Chairman Reliance Industries LimitedReliance has also announced partnering with Google Cloud to broaden access to its advanced AI hardware accelerators Tensor Processing Units TPUsThis will enable more organisations to train and deploy larger more complex AI models as well as deliver faster inferencing to help execute highly demanding projects and accelerate AI adoption across the broader India AI ecosystemThis expanded collaboration also establishes Reliance Intelligence as a strategic gotomarket partner for Google Cloud driving the adoption of Gemini Enterprise across Indian organisationsReliance is a longstanding partner in Googles goal of advancing Indias digital future together weve brought affordable internet access and smartphones to millions said Sundar Pichai CEO of Google and AlphabetNow we are bringing this collaboration into the AI era Todays announcement will put Googles cuttingedge AI tools in the hands of consumers businesses and Indias vibrant developer community he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/reliance-partners-google-to-accelerate-indias-ai-revolution-645652.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-education-dept-issues-notice-to-teachers-for-taking-part-in-rss-march-645653.html Bengaluru Oct 30 The Congressled government in Karnataka on Thursday continued the crackdown on government staffers for identifying with the Rastriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS and taking part in foot marches across the state The development of notices being issued to four teachers from Aurad taluk in Bidar district in the state for participating in an RSS foot march by authorities has come to lightThe Aurad Block Education Officer BEO issued the notices asking them to explain their participationThe RSS foot march had taken place in Aurad on October 7 and 13Teachers named Mahadev Shalivan Prakash and Satish had participated in itOn October 27 Dalit Sena leaders submitted a complaint to the BEO demanding action against the teachersThe very next day on Tuesday the BEO issued show cause notices to all four teachersThe notice said You are found to have participated in the RSS foot march held in Aurad taluk of Bidar district on October 7 and 13 Videos and photographs of your participation have been widely circulated on social media Being government employees you are prohibited from taking part in any political or religious activities By participating in the RSS foot march you have violated government service rulesHence upon receiving this notice you are directed to submit a written explanation and appear in person before this office Failing to do so will result in unilateral action being taken against you under the Karnataka Civil Services Classification Control and Appeal Rules 1957 it addedThe state government authorities have started issuing notices to government staffers for identifying with the RSS following the letter written by Minister Priyank Kharge to ban RSS activities in public placesHe had also written another letter specifically urging the state government to initiate action against government employees who identify and give donations to the RSSFollowing the governments action the state has passed an order making it mandatory for all private organisations to obtain permission from authorities to conduct activities in public places and governmentowned premisesIn a setback to the Congressled government the High Court Kalaburagi bench had stayed this orderThe state government has said that it would appeal against the court orderThe Karnataka Administrative Tribunal KAT on Thursday stayed the Congressled governments order suspending a Panchayat Development Officer PDO for participating in a foot march organised by the RSSThe KAT has issued a stay order over the suspension order of PDO Praveen KumarThe authorities have suspended him for taking part in the RSS foot march in Lingasagur of Raichur districtThe PDO had questioned his suspension in the KAT and claimed that his suspension is against the law and done due to political pressure IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-education-dept-issues-notice-to-teachers-for-taking-part-in-rss-march-645653.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nagaland-preps-up-for-26th-hornbill-festival-coinciding-with-statehood-day-645655.html Kohima Oct 30 Nagaland is gearing up to host the 26th edition of the annual Hornbill Festival which coincides with the Statehood Day celebrations officials said on Thursday A senior Tourism and Art and Culture Department official said that like previous years thousands of people from various parts of India and abroad are expected to visit during the tendaylong famous Hornbill Festival at the picturesque Naga heritage village Kisama between December 1 and 10He said that the 4th edition of Nagalands Autumn Festival was held in New Delhi last week as a curtainraiser to the 26th edition of the states iconic Hornbill FestivalHe said that in the twoday Autumn Festival held at the lawns of Nagaland House in the national capital Sumi Students Union Delhi performed an emphatic war dance on both the opening and closing function while Naga Artistes like Colored Keys the Mahila Band the Eastory Project Tiatemsu Jamir and Kiki Longkumer entertained the crowd by belting out popular songsTraditional Naga textile The Indigo Medley designed by Kintem was also showcased during the event Sharon Longchari Joint Resident Commissioner Nagaland House New Delhi delivered the welcome address and the programme was compered by Bangshing PanjaAmbassador of Ireland to India Kevin Kelly was the chief guest on the second day of the Autumn Festival while Temjen Imna Along Nagalands Minister of Tourism and Higher Education was the Chief Host of the event with Abu Metha Adviser to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Chairman of IDAN Investments amp Development Authority of Nagaland as the CohostKevin Kelly had said that as seen through the festival the distinct Naga identity expressed with real confidence is a reminder that heritage is living evolving and sharedHe highlighted the historical similarities shared between Ireland India and Nagaland of having emerged from colonial rule simultaneously which he stated gives the relationship a particular depthThe Ambassador also pointed out that one common thing that Ireland and Nagaland share is awareness of the importance of identity and respecting different and diverse identitiesHe also expressed his excitement to travel to Nagaland with his colleagues later this year and experience the Hornbill Festival firsthandThe Tourism and Art and Culture Department official said that over 205 lakh people 33 per cent more footfall than in 2023 from various parts of India and abroad visited the silver jubilee edition of the carnival last year 2024Of the 205 lakh people 2527 were foreign tourists 54036 were from various parts of the country and the remaining were from different parts of the stateIn 2023 at least 154057 visitors visited Naga Heritage Village Kisama12 km from the state capital Kohima The officials said that in the silver jubilee edition of the Hornbill Festival in 2024 Japan the US the UK Wales and Peru were the country partners while Sikkim and Telangana were the partner states More than 50 cultural troupes from different parts of Nagaland and all the eight Northeastern states displayed their traditional and diverse cultures IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nagaland-preps-up-for-26th-hornbill-festival-coinciding-with-statehood-day-645655.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-auto-sector-sees-strong-recovery-in-sep-cv-sales-up-119-pc-yoy-645658.html New Delhi Oct 30 Indias automobile sector experienced a robust recovery in September with sales increasing by 5 to 10 per cent across various segments a report said on Thursday The pickup in sales was driven by Goods and Services Tax GST reforms and the onset of the festive season signalling a positive turn for the industry in FY2026 the report from ratings agency ICRA saidThe commercial vehicle CV segment witnessed a robust 119 per cent yearonyear growth in wholesale volumesWhile infrastructure projects and revived logistics supported a 32 per cent growth in H1 FY26 retail sales in specific segments like Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles MampHCVs contracted temporarily as fleet owners had deferred purchases in anticipation of the tax reformRetail sales of twowheelers grew 65 per cent YoY during the month after muted sales in the first few weeks due to purchase deferralsWholesale volumes also grew 6 per cent as manufacturers increased dispatches the report notedThe passenger vehicle PV segment gained notable traction postGST cut with retail sales growing 58 per cent YoY and wholesale volumes up 45 per cent ICRA saidWholesale volumes saw a 157 per cent sequential increase as OEMs stocked dealerships for the festive period Although inventory levels were elevated utility vehicles continued to dominate sales it saidICRA maintained a stable to positive outlook for the Indian auto sector in FY2026 For the fiscal year the ratings agency forecasted a modest 35 per cent wholesale growth for the CV industry 69 per cent growth for twowheelers and 1 to 4 per cent growth for passenger vehiclesImproved affordability new model launches an increase in rural demand and sustained festive demand will act as growth drivers the report said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-auto-sector-sees-strong-recovery-in-sep-cv-sales-up-119-pc-yoy-645658.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/security-agencies-flag-sfjs-cultural-infiltration-for-khalistan-narrative-revival--645659.html New Delhi Oct 30 Every year ahead of November the proscribed terror group Sikhs for Justice SFJ is in the news as it seeks to observe the Sikh genocide month The connection between November and the Khalistan issue stems from the November 1984 genocide that took place following the assassination of Indira Gandhi on October 31 1984 ProKhalistan elements in Canada the US and the UK organise events to draw attention to their demands for a separate Punjab nation Last November SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun issued threats against the Ram Mandir and other Temples The same month he had warned people not to fly Air India between November 1 and 19 This year he has threatened Diljit Dosanghs Aura 2025 concert scheduled for November 1 in Melbourne While the Australian police have raised the alert levels Indian Intelligence officials have also warned that Khalistan elements could try and carry out attacks in India Officials say that the primary objective of the SFJ this year is to undermine Indias cultural diplomacy abroad They also want to drive fear into the minds of Sikhs who do not subscribe to the Khalistan view Hence by threatening such events the SFJ wants the Sikhs to stay away from such events The agencies say that the SFJ has started several groups on social media and messaging platforms There is a massive amount of funding coming in from several groups that are linked to the SFJ There are encrypted Telegram channels through which propaganda is being spread and hate is instilled The same channels are also being used to collect funds The agencies have also learnt that these channels are operated through the servers in the US and Canada which help the SFJ mask its activities The SFJ and other proKhalistan groups are using the 1984 genocide as an emotional issue to draw the Sikhs into their fold This is however not a recent phenomenon and such groups have been carrying out activities such as this for a long time However this year the agencies say that the SFJ and its affiliated groups are desperate and things could well spiral out of control The SFJ has not used foreign soil for the first time to create a ruckus It has done so many times through the various referendums it has called for Such events have taken place in Australia the US the UK and Canada in the past An official said that although many threats in the past have turned out to be damp squibs one cannot take a chance The Melbourne police have raised the alert levels from moderate to high Further one must also take into account that these groups are becoming extremely frustrated that their movement has not kicked off in India This would mean that there could be a reckless act that could be attemptedIn Australia there are reports that the SFJ and its affiliated groups could use a lone actor to carry out an attack or disrupt the show These developments also come in the wake of the ISI seeking to go all throttle on the Khalistan movement It recently tasked the Babbar Khalsa International BKI to be the umbrella organisation for all other Khalistan terror groups The ISI felt that this would ensure better coordination and activities would be better streamlined While the BKI would oversee the ground activities the SFJs role is to issue threats encourage recruitment collect funds and run the propaganda for the Khalistan movement The ISI which has sheltered these elements for long has now decided that it is time to go all out at least in Punjab for now IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/security-agencies-flag-sfjs-cultural-infiltration-for-khalistan-narrative-revival--645659.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/anil-ambanis-reliance-group-dismisses-cobrapost-report-as-baseless-motivated-campaign-645668.html Mumbai Oct 30 The Reliance Group on Thursday dismissed the Cobrapost report which alleged that the Anil Ambaniled company had diverted funds to the tune of over Rs 41900 crore as a malicious baseless and motivated campaign being orchestrated by the news platform at the behest of the groups corporate rivals The Reliance Group said in its rebuttal to the report that certain corporate rivals appear to be orchestrating this alleged exercise with the malicious intent to tarnish the reputation of Reliance Infrastructure Limited Reliance Power Limited Anil D Ambani and one of the largest family of over 55 lakh shareholders aimed at crashing the stock prices and engineering panic in stock markets to acquire Reliance Group assets at rock bottom stock priced levelsThe Reliance Group did not mention who the corporate rivals were but stated that they wanted to acquire its prime assets such as Delhis power distribution company BSES Ltd Mumbai Metro and 1200 MW Rosa power project at throwaway pricesThe Reliance Group also said the information being referred to in the Cobrapost report is long available in the public domain and has already been examined by statutory authorities including the CBI ED SEBI and other competent agencies Any suo motu comments or statements on these subjects would amount to contempt of court and interference with the right to fair trial it addedOver the last three months the combined market capitalisation of Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power has declined by over Rs 15000 crore driven by rumormongering speculative trading and orchestrated misinformation The credibility intent and funding of Cobrapost and its associates therefore merit serious scrutiny the rebuttal addedEarlier in the day Cobrapost alleged that the Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group has indulged in a massive banking fraud amounting to more than Rs 28874 crore since 2006 with impunity The Cobrapost report alleges that the fraud involves siphoning off funds that were raised through bank loans IPOs and bonds by listed ADA Group companiesIn addition about 1535 billion raised abroad was routed to India in a fraudulent manner This includes 750 million a mysterious benefactor company NexGen Capital advanced to Emerging Market Investments amp Trading Pte EMITS of Singapore during a temporary custody arrangement with Reliance Innoventures the holding company of the ADA Group Cobrapost further alleged in its investigation report which has been posted on its websiteThe value of US1535 million thus diverted works out to Rs 1304750 crore in Indian currency and put together the amounts involved stand at more than Rs 4192157 crore the Cobrapost report alleges IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/anil-ambanis-reliance-group-dismisses-cobrapost-report-as-baseless-motivated-campaign-645668.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 21:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/trinamool-expels-birbhum-councillor-accused-of-raping-woman-on-false-promise-of-marriage-645669.html Kolkata Oct 30 The Trinamool Congress on Thursday expelled a party councillor from Birbhum district after he was accused of raping a woman on the false promise of marriage The decision came within 24 hours of the filing of a police case against him According to the party Priyanath Sau the accused councillor and vicepresident of the Rampurhat city Trinamool committee was expelled following directions from Abhishek Banerjee Trinamool Congress national general secretary and leader of the party in the Lok SabhaAn FIR was registered against Sau on Wednesday based on a complaint lodged by a young woman who alleged that he concealed his marriage and entered into a physical relationship with her under the false pretext of marrying her only to later renege on his promiseDeputy Speaker of the West Bengal Assembly and Rampurhat Trinamool Congress MLA Ashish Banerjee announced the disciplinary action at the party office in Rampurhat on Thursday afternoonThe decision to expel him was taken after a thorough review by Abhishek Banerjee Our leader does not believe in rash decisions After verifying all aspects of the matter he instructed us to expel the councillor from the party for an indefinite period Banerjee told reportersAccording to the police complaint the victim said she met Sau in 2015 while preparing her voter identity card She alleged that although he was already married and had a child he hid this fact from her and repeatedly raped her over the years on the promise of marriageWhen her family later approached Sau for marriage he refused claiming he was already married the complaint statedA senior officer of the Birbhum district police confirmed that a case had been registered and investigation had begun A case has been registered We have started an investigation and are looking into all aspects of the allegations the officer saidAs of Thursday evening the police had not arrested the accused councillorThe expulsion comes amid a series of imagesensitive disciplinary measures by the Trinamool Congress in recent months with the party leadership stressing that individuals facing criminal charges would not be shielded or tolerated IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/trinamool-expels-birbhum-councillor-accused-of-raping-woman-on-false-promise-of-marriage-645669.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 21:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nasscom-partners-with-uidai-to-help-indias-deeptech-innovators-645670.html New Delhi Oct 30 The National Association of Software and Service Companies NASSCOM on Thursday said that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with the Unique Identification Authority of India UIDAI to expand opportunities for Indias DeepTech innovators and strengthen the countrys digital identity ecosystem As part of the collaboration the trade association will support UIDAIs Scheme for Innovation and technology association with Aadhaar SITAA a structured UIDAI initiative to catalyse open innovation indigenisation and scalable IDtech solutions that strengthen the Aadhaar ecosystem and Indias Digital Public InfrastructureIndia is home to more than 4000 DeepTech startups including over 500 inventive ventures tackling challenges in healthtech agriculture space and other strategic sectorsNasscom has been closely working with the ecosystem and government in evangelising the promise of DeepTech startups spotlighting their ideas and enabling them to scale globallyThe collaboration with UIDAI reinforces this mission by shaping a national narrative around IDTech a domain poised to transform service delivery enhance trust in digital interactions and unlock inclusive growth for millions of citizensFor startups the partnership opens doors to UIDAIs incubation sandbox providing a platform to pilot solutions in policylinked environments gain visibility with influential stakeholders and engage with realworld challenges central to Indias digital futureThe future of digital identity will be shaped by groundbreaking ideas and solutions that redefine what trust means in the digital age With the convergence of AI biometrics and secure platforms there is immense potential to make citizen services more accessible reliable and citizencentric said Sangeeta Gupta Sr Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer at NasscomThis collaboration with UIDAI allows startups to not only innovate but also to impact how technology can empower governance with transparency and trust at its foundation she addedThrough curated showcases academia outreach and structured exchanges with UIDAI the initiative will help founders validate their ideas build credibility and accelerate their journey to scaleThe initiative aims to strengthen Indias digital identity ecosystem by fostering innovation promoting indigenisation and enabling collaborative development in the identity technology domainIt will further open new pathways for startups in the IDTech space to imagine experiment and build solutions that can power the backbone of Indias digital identity infrastructure IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nasscom-partners-with-uidai-to-help-indias-deeptech-innovators-645670.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 21:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/grand-chetak-memorial-will-be-built-in-rajasthan-says-cm-sharma-645676.html Jaipur Oct 30 Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said on Thursday that a grand and historic memorial dedicated to Maharana Prataps loyal horse Chetak will be constructed in Rajsamand districts Haldighati Chairing a review meeting at the Chief Ministers Office CM Sharma said the project will be developed as part of the Maharana Pratap Tourist Circuit aimed at showcasing the valour and legacy of the legendary Rajput warriorHe also directed the formation of a special cell for the construction of historical buildings to ensure timely and highquality execution of heritage development works across RajasthanChief Minister Sharma said the state government is firmly committed to developing religious and tourist sites while preserving Rajasthans glorious heritageHe emphasised that the state governments goal is to ensure balanced progress development with preservation and directed officials to give top priority to projects showcasing the states historical cultural and spiritual legacyHe also announced the formation of a special cell for the construction and conservation of historical buildings to ensure timely and highquality execution of such projectsThe Chief Minister was chairing a review meeting regarding the development and redevelopment of the Maharana Pratap Tourist Circuit Poonchri Ka Lautha and the Tanot Mata TempleHe said that the Maharana Pratap Tourist Circuit is being developed to introduce the people to the life and valour of Rajput king Maharana PratapThe circuit includes sites such as Chavand Haldighati Gogunda Kumbhalgarh Diwar and Udaipur with a total budget allocation of Rs 100 crore he addedThe Chief Minister instructed officials to systematically develop the Maharana Pratap memorial site in Chavand including the construction of an entrance gate bridge and essential tourist amenitiesHe also issued specific guidelines for designing a grand and historic memorial dedicated to Maharana Prataps loyal horse Chetak at HaldighatiReviewing the redevelopment work at Tanot Mata Temple in Jaisalmer CM Sharma directed officials to ensure better accommodation facilities for devoteesHe also gave directions for constructing the temples entrance gate dharamshala and improving connecting roads to enhance accessibility and comfort for pilgrimsThe Chief Minister urged officials to expedite the tender process for ongoing development works at Poonchri Ka Lautha and Govardhan Parikrama ensuring worldclass facilities for devotees at these sacred sites which are being developed in multiple phasesOmkar Singh Lakhawat Chairman of the Rajasthan Heritage Authority along with senior officials from the concerned departments were also present at the meeting IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/grand-chetak-memorial-will-be-built-in-rajasthan-says-cm-sharma-645676.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 23:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-and-sri-lanka-hold-1st-joint-working-group-meeting-on-agriculture-645679.html New Delhi Oct 30 India and Sri Lanka discussed collaboration in key areas including farm mechanisation organic and natural farming seed sector development agrientrepreneurship agricultural education soil health management market access and climateresilient agriculture at the first Joint Working Group JWG meeting on Agriculture between the Asian countries was held on Thursday The meeting was cochaired by Devesh Chaturvedi Secretary Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and D P Wickramasinghe Secretary Ministry of Agriculture Livestock Land and Irrigation Government of Sri LankaBoth sides discussed Opportunities for joint research and capacity building were also exploredThe meeting also covered initiatives such as digital agriculture crop insurance and agristartupsThe Sri Lankan delegation visited the Indian Agricultural Research Institute IARI Pusa New Delhi to gain insights into Indias agricultural research and innovation ecosystemThe discussions reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Sri Lanka to deepen cooperation for strengthening food and nutritional security in both countriesThe Sri Lankan delegation comprised G G V Shyamali Additional Director General of Agriculture Development Department of Agriculture B S S Perera Director Livestock Development Ministry of Agriculture Livestock Land and Irrigation and Geshan Counsellor High Commission of Sri LankaThe meeting was also attended by Joint Secretaries from the Department of Agriculture amp Farmers Welfare DAampFW Chairman PPVFRA Department of Agricultural Research and Education DARE the Indian Council of Agricultural Research ICAR and the Ministry of External Affairs MEA IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-and-sri-lanka-hold-1st-joint-working-group-meeting-on-agriculture-645679.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 23:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/after-justice-for-rg-kar-its-trinamools-justice-for-pradeep-kar-cry-now-645680.html Kolkata Oct 30 After the ghastly rape and murder of a lady junior doctor at the staterun RG Kar Medical College amp Hospital in Kolkata within the hospital premises last year the slogan that reverberated across the state and indeed the nation was Tomar Swor Amar Swor Justice for RG Kar Sara Banglar ektai Swor Justice for RG Kar Your call my call Justice for RG Kar Entire Bengal has just one call Justice for RG Kar Maintaining a rhythmic semblance with that earlier slogan the Trinamool Congress has now coined a new one Sara Banglar ektai Swor Justice for Pradeep Kar Entire Bengal has just one call Justice for Pradeep Kar as the tagline for its ongoing protest demonstrations over the suicide of 57yearold Pradeep Kar at Panihati in North 24 Parganas district earlier this week after his name was reportedly excluded from the National Register of Citizens NRCOn Thursday the Trinamool Congress held its first protest rally at Pradeep Kars locality where party leaders and supporters were seen carrying placards bearing the new slogan written in BengaliParticipants in the rally were also heard chanting the same slogan as they walked through the neighbourhood protesting against what they described as a tragic outcome of the NRC exercise The rally was led by Partha Bhowmik Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member from Barrackpore constituency and Nirmal Ghosh the party MLA from Panihati among othersAt the conclusion of the rally Bhowmik said this was just the beginning of a wider movement and that protest demonstrations will be organised across West Bengal in the coming days against what he called the BJPs attempt to instill fear among the people using the Special Intensive Revision SIR and NRC as toolsOur party and the state government stand firmly beside Kars family Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the partys national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee have assured them of all possible assistance Bhowmik saidOn November 4 the day the first stage of the threephase SIR process is scheduled to begin in West Bengal the Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly is expected to lead a counterrally in the same area demanding a thorough investigation into Kars deathThe Leader of the Opposition has the freedom to hold that rally However his rally will be political in nature Our rally today was a rally of the common people Bhowmik said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/after-justice-for-rg-kar-its-trinamools-justice-for-pradeep-kar-cry-now-645680.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 23:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-polls-violence-erupts-in-mokama-one-murdered-645681.html Patna Oct 30 Tension gripped Mokama in Patna district in Bihar on Thursday after a man was allegedly murdered in an electionrelated clash raising concern across political circles The incident took place near Khushalchak and Basawanchak villages under the limit of Samayagarh police station within the Mokama assembly constituency considered one of Bihars most highprofile battlegrounds this election seasonThe deceased has been identified as Dularchand Yadav a supporter of Jan Suraaj leader Piyush PriyadarshiFollowing the incident Jan Suraaj leader Piyush Priyadarshi alleged that Dularchand was targeted due to election rivalryThe police have launched an investigation and said strict action will be taken against those responsibleSenior officials including the ASP Barh Rural SP and SSP Patna visited the spot to assess the situation and a heavy police force has been deployed to prevent further unrestFormer MLA and JDU candidate Anant Singh known as a strongman leader from Mokama has directly accused former MP Surajbhan Singh of orchestrating the incidentReacting to the incident RJD leader and Grand Alliances Chief Ministerial face Tejashwi Yadav condemned the violence urging all parties to maintain peace during the electionsThere is no place for violence in democracy The Model Code of Conduct is in effect yet people are moving around with guns and bullets The Election Commission must take strict action Tejashwi saidThe Mokama assembly constituency is witnessing a highstakes contest between Anant Singh JDU and Veena Devi wife of former RJD MP Surajbhan Singh with both families having wielded significant political influence in the region for decadesDularchand Yadav was once considered close to Lalu Prasad Yadav and played a significant role in strengthening the RJDs grassroots cadre during the 1990sIn recent years he had shifted allegiance to the Jan Suraaj movement and developed close ties with Piyush PriyadarshiLocals say Dularchand was wellknown in the Mokama Taal belt for his social work and political connectionsRecently he gained attention after a campaign song he recorded in support of Lallu Mukhiya another local leader went viral on social mediaPolice sources said that the clash may have been fuelled by old rivalries and competition for local dominance during campaigningThe situation in Mokama remains tense though under control officials said late Thursday evening IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-polls-violence-erupts-in-mokama-one-murdered-645681.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 23:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-road-rage-couple-arrested-for-deliberately-ramming-bike-killing-gig-worker-645493.html Bengaluru Oct 30 Bengaluru police have arrested a couple on charges of ramming their car into a bike and killing one of the riders in a road rage incident The case was reported from the Puttenahalli police station limits in Bengaluru The deceased has been identified as 24yearold Dharshan N a gig worker His friend 24yearold G Varun sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital The accused have been identified as Manoj Kumar a Kalaripayattu martial arts instructor and his wife Arti SharmaDCP South Lokesh Jagalasar said On October 25 in Srirama Layout near Puttenahalli a car hit a bike carrying two youths One of the riders died on the spot while the pillion rider was admitted to a hospital Initially JP Nagar Traffic Police registered a case of accidental deathHowever CCTV footage later revealed that the car driver had deliberately rammed into the bike from behind Further investigation showed that the two bikers had earlier broken the mirror of the car before leaving the spot the DCP statedEnraged by this the car driver reportedly took a Uturn chased the bike and intentionally rammed into it before fleeing the scene Following these findings a murder case was registered at the Puttenahalli police stationAfter committing the crime the car driver allegedly returned to the spot wearing a mask and collected broken car parts to conceal evidence Both the accused husband and wife were later seen their faces covered retrieving parts of the car from the site Police have also added charges of destroying evidence to the murder case the DCP saidThe couple has been arrested and produced before the court The deceased was a gig worker while the accused husband worked as a physical arts teacher police saidThe case has been registered under Sections 1031 109 238 3245 and 35 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita BNS The CCTV footage regarding the incident has gone viral on social media raising concerns Police sources stated that the accused driver Manoj chased the bike for nearly 2 kilometres before ramming into the vehicle The impact was such that both riders on the bike sprang into the air and fell downThe accused couple had stated to police that the bike riders deliberately came in front of their car and broke the mirror and sped away and this had enraged them The incident had taken place at 1130 pm on October 25 Further investigation is on IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-road-rage-couple-arrested-for-deliberately-ramming-bike-killing-gig-worker-645493.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-road-rage-couple-chases-biker-after-minor-accident-and-kills-him-arrested-645501.html Bengaluru Oct 30 Bengaluru police have arrested a couple on charges of ramming their car into a bike and killing one of the riders in a road rage incident The case was reported from the Puttenahalli police station limits in Bengaluru The deceased has been identified as 24yearold Dharshan N a gig worker His friend 24yearold G Varun sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital The accused have been identified as Manoj Kumar a Kalaripayattu martial arts instructor and his wife Arti SharmaDCP South Lokesh Jagalasar said On October 25 in Srirama Layout near Puttenahalli a car hit a bike carrying two youths One of the riders died on the spot while the pillion rider was admitted to a hospital Initially JP Nagar Traffic Police registered a case of accidental deathHowever CCTV footage later revealed that the car driver had deliberately rammed into the bike from behind Further investigation showed that the two bikers had earlier broken the mirror of the car before leaving the spot the DCP statedEnraged by this the car driver reportedly took a Uturn chased the bike and intentionally rammed into it before fleeing the scene Following these findings a murder case was registered at the Puttenahalli police stationAfter committing the crime the car driver allegedly returned to the spot wearing a mask and collected broken car parts to conceal evidence Both the accused husband and wife were later seen their faces covered retrieving parts of the car from the site Police have also added charges of destroying evidence to the murder case the DCP saidThe couple has been arrested and produced before the court The deceased was a gig worker while the accused husband worked as a physical arts teacher police saidThe case has been registered under Sections 1031 109 238 3245 and 35 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita BNS The CCTV footage regarding the incident has gone viral on social media raising concerns Police sources stated that the accused driver Manoj chased the bike for nearly 2 kilometres before ramming into the vehicle The impact was such that both riders on the bike sprang into the air and fell downThe accused couple had stated to police that the bike riders deliberately came in front of their car and broke the mirror and sped away and this had enraged them The incident had taken place at 1130 pm on October 25 Further investigation is on IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-road-rage-couple-chases-biker-after-minor-accident-and-kills-him-arrested-645501.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-stalin-to-pay-tribute-to-muthuramalinga-thevar-on-his-118th-birth-anniversary-today-645522.html Chennai Oct 30 Chief Minister MK Stalin will lead the states homage to freedom fighter and national leader Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar on the occasion of his 118th birth anniversary and Guru Puja Day on Thursday The Chief Minister accompanied by ministers Members of Parliament and MLAs will offer floral tributes at the leaders memorial in Pasumpon Kamudi taluk Ramanathapuram district today Simultaneously in Chennai ministers MPs MLAs and representatives from local bodies will pay tribute by garlanding the statue of Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar at the Nandanam Junction on Anna SalaiBorn on October 30 1908 in Pasumpon village to Ukkirapandi Thevar and Indrani Ammal Muthuramalinga Thevar emerged as a towering figure in Tamil Nadus sociopolitical and spiritual spheresFrom a young age he opposed colonial domination and championed values such as spirituality nationalism antiimperialism anticommunism and the eradication of caste discriminationHis life was an inspiring blend of devotion discipline and unwavering patriotism Thevar passed away on October 30 1963 but continues to be revered as a symbol of courage faith and unity among Tamil peopleDuring the tenure of former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi in 2007 the Tamil Nadu government lavishly celebrated Thevars centenaryThevars ancestral house in Pasumpon was renovated and several public facilities were established to honour his legacy including a centenary gateway a photo exhibition hall an eternal flame a new library building a Mulai Paari hall and a Mudikkanakai hallIn further recognition of his contributions three government colleges in Nallur Tirunelveli district Kamuthi Ramanathapuram district and Usilampatti Madurai district were named after himThe tallest statue of Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar was also erected in MaduraiContinuing this legacy of respect Chief Minister MK Stalin on behalf of the Tamil Nadu government inaugurated the Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar Memorial Auditorium Thevar Arangam at the Pasumpon memorial site on October 28 2024The annual Guru Puja and birth anniversary celebration stand as a reminder of Thevars enduring impact on Tamil Nadus political and cultural history a legacy rooted in justice equality and spiritual nationalism IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-stalin-to-pay-tribute-to-muthuramalinga-thevar-on-his-118th-birth-anniversary-today-645522.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/minimum-temp-will-fall-in-delhi-ncr-pollution-will-increase-next-phase-of-grap-may-be-implemented-soon-645528.html New Delhi Oct 30 The onset of November is expected to bring colder and foggier mornings to Delhi and the National Capital Region NCR even as pollution levels continue to climb According to the India Meteorological Department IMD minimum temperatures will begin to fall from November 1 while maximum temperatures will hover around 30 to 31 degrees CelsiusThe weather department has ruled out any chance of rainfall in the coming days From October 30 to November 4 the sky will remain clear but light fog and mist are likely during early mornings and evenings the IMD saidOn Thursday the capital is expected to record a maximum temperature of 30 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 18 degrees which may further drop to 17 degrees by November 1 Meteorologists predict that temperatures will continue to decline gradually marking the early signs of winter However this fall in temperature is likely to aggravate air pollution levels in the regionWeather experts explain that cold and dry air traps pollutants near the surface leading to a rapid deterioration in air quality With no rain to wash away the pollutants the Air Quality Index AQI across DelhiNCR is projected to remain in the poor to very poor category in the coming daysIn response to worsening conditions the Commission for Air Quality Management CAQM and other environmental agencies are expected to implement the next phase of the Graded Response Action Plan GRAP soon The stricter measures may include a ban on construction and demolition activities restrictions on truck entry intensified road cleaning and regular water sprinkling to control dustHumidity levels are expected to fluctuate between 60 and 85 per cent increasing the likelihood of fog and smog formation especially during morning and evening hours Health experts have advised residents to limit outdoor exposure particularly for children and the elderly and to wear masks when stepping outsideIf the dry spell continues the air quality may worsen further in the first week of November potentially causing respiratory issues and eye irritation among residentsThe drop in temperatures is being felt beyond DelhiNCR as well From Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to Madhya Pradesh people have switched off fans and air conditioners with many now sleeping under light blanketsWinter is slowly setting in across North India While Delhi and Uttarakhand are experiencing a mild chill parts of Uttar Pradesh are witnessing colder weather due to rain and strong winds Meteorologists predict that temperatures across the region will fall further in the first week of November officially marking the arrival of winter IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/minimum-temp-will-fall-in-delhi-ncr-pollution-will-increase-next-phase-of-grap-may-be-implemented-soon-645528.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/minimum-temp-will-fall-in-delhi-ncr-pollution-will-increase-next-phase-of-grap-may-be-implemented-soon-645529.html New Delhi Oct 30 The onset of November is expected to bring colder and foggier mornings to Delhi and the National Capital Region NCR even as pollution levels continue to climb According to the India Meteorological Department IMD minimum temperatures will begin to fall from November 1 while maximum temperatures will hover around 30 to 31 degrees CelsiusThe weather department has ruled out any chance of rainfall in the coming days From October 30 to November 4 the sky will remain clear but light fog and mist are likely during early mornings and evenings the IMD saidOn Thursday the capital is expected to record a maximum temperature of 30 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 18 degrees which may further drop to 17 degrees by November 1 Meteorologists predict that temperatures will continue to decline gradually marking the early signs of winter However this fall in temperature is likely to aggravate air pollution levels in the regionWeather experts explain that cold and dry air traps pollutants near the surface leading to a rapid deterioration in air quality With no rain to wash away the pollutants the Air Quality Index AQI across DelhiNCR is projected to remain in the poor to very poor category in the coming daysIn response to worsening conditions the Commission for Air Quality Management CAQM and other environmental agencies are expected to implement the next phase of the Graded Response Action Plan GRAP soon The stricter measures may include a ban on construction and demolition activities restrictions on truck entry intensified road cleaning and regular water sprinkling to control dustHumidity levels are expected to fluctuate between 60 and 85 per cent increasing the likelihood of fog and smog formation especially during morning and evening hours Health experts have advised residents to limit outdoor exposure particularly for children and the elderly and to wear masks when stepping outsideIf the dry spell continues the air quality may worsen further in the first week of November potentially causing respiratory issues and eye irritation among residentsThe drop in temperatures is being felt beyond DelhiNCR as well From Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to Madhya Pradesh people have switched off fans and air conditioners with many now sleeping under light blanketsWinter is slowly setting in across North India While Delhi and Uttarakhand are experiencing a mild chill parts of Uttar Pradesh are witnessing colder weather due to rain and strong winds Meteorologists predict that temperatures across the region will fall further in the first week of November officially marking the arrival of winter IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/minimum-temp-will-fall-in-delhi-ncr-pollution-will-increase-next-phase-of-grap-may-be-implemented-soon-645529.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/over-10-000-cops-deployed-for-thevar-jayanthi-in-tns-pasumpon-645532.html Chennai Oct 30 Over 10000 cops have been deployed in and around Pasumpon town for the 118th birth anniversary and 62nd Guru Puja celebrations of freedom fighter Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar The statelevel event which began on October 28 is being attended by Vice President CP Radhakrishnan Chief Minister MK Stalin several state ministers Members of Parliament MLAs and other political leadersThe highprofile presence of dignitaries has prompted authorities to tighten security and traffic regulations across Ramanathapuram districtAccording to officials police forces from multiple districts in southern Tamil Nadu have been mobilised to ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrationsSection 163 prohibitory orders remain in force and strict restrictions have been placed on vehicular entry and crowd movement near the memorial siteFestival participants are required to obtain prior police permission and are allowed to travel only in their personal vehicles The entry of rented and twowheeler vehicles into Pasumpon has been prohibited to prevent overcrowding and maintain orderSince Thursday marks the official government celebration buses and goods carriers from other districts will not be allowed entry through Parthibanur Kamuthi Mudukulathur and SayalgudiVehicles from Madurai are being diverted through Poovandhi Sivaganga Kalayarkoil Sarukani Thiruvadanai RS Mangalam and Devipattinam to reach Ramanathapuram and the same route applies for return trips To facilitate the movement of devotees from nearby villages the government has arranged additional bus services to PasumponPolice have cautioned participants not to indulge in unsafe or unlawful acts such as hanging outside moving vehicles sitting on rooftops bursting crackers or raising inflammatory slogansTo monitor compliance 38 check posts have been established across the district Two officers have been assigned to each special bus for protectionAdditionally 300 bodyworn cameras have been issued to police on duty and 150 CCTV cameras have been installed for realtime surveillanceFurther 57 twowheelers and 53 patrol vehicles are engaged in continuous rounds with control rooms set up to oversee the entire operationWith threetier security technologyassisted monitoring and strong administrative coordination the Ramanathapuram district police expect the Thevar Jayanthi and Guru Puja celebrations to proceed peacefully and in full discipline IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/over-10-000-cops-deployed-for-thevar-jayanthi-in-tns-pasumpon-645532.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/drunken-rage-leads-to-gruesome-matricide-by-ex-coast-guard-officer-in-thiruvananthapuram-645536.html Thiruvananthapuram Oct 30 In a chilling act of violence a retired Coast Guard officer allegedly murdered his 76yearold mother at their home in Kalliyoor late on Wednesday night after a drunken quarrel with her The victim Vijayakumari was found dead with deep cut injuries all over her body at her residence Lakshmi Nivas in PakaloorHer son Ajayakumar who has a long history of alcohol addiction was arrested by the Nemom Police after the shocking incidentAccording to the police only the mother and son lived in the houseAround 11 pm Ajayakumar consumed a bottle of liquor and reached for another prompting a heated argument with his old mother who tried to stop him from drinking furtherEnraged by this he reportedly grabbed a kitchen knife and attacked her while she was eating an appleVijayakumari ran out of the house to save herself but Ajayakumar chased her into the courtyard near the well in the house and stabbed his mother multiple timesHe allegedly slit her throat and cut the tendons in her hands and legs before attempting to pour liquor over the body and set it ablazeNeighbours alerted by the elderly womans screams rushed to the spot and informed the policeWhen they tried to intervene the accused hurled a liquor bottle at them before being subduedThe police later collected CCTV footage showing parts of the incidentInvestigators said Ajayakumar had undergone several rounds of treatment at deaddiction centres and was staying with his mother following strained relations with other family membersAs a retired Coast Guard officer he had access to liquor through military canteens and had stocked multiple bottles at homePolice believe the immediate provocation was his mothers warning against opening a second bottle of liquor after the firstVijayakumari a former employee at the Commissioners Office is survived by two other childrenThe Nemom Police have registered a case of murder and taken Ajayakumar into custody IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/drunken-rage-leads-to-gruesome-matricide-by-ex-coast-guard-officer-in-thiruvananthapuram-645536.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/three-killed-as-vehicle-rams-into-tree-in-karnataka-645538.html Shivamogga Oct 30 Three people were killed and another sustained serious injuries after a goods vehicle rammed into a tree early Thursday morning in Shivamogga district of Karnataka The deceased have been identified as 35yearold Asadulla 33yearold Firoz and 31yearold Sadiq all residents of Tavare ChatnalliThe driver of the vehicle Irfan sustained serious injuries and locals shifted him to Meggan Hospital in BengaluruThe incident occurred within the limits of Shivamogga Rural Police Station when the victims were returning from Balehonnur after completing carpentry work in a goods vehiclePolice suspect that the accident occurred as the driver of the goods vehicle dozed offThe police have taken up further investigationOn Tuesday night a medical student from Karwars KRIMS Medical College in Karnataka was killed and another was seriously injured after their bike hit a buffalo that suddenly came onto the road near Mashem in GoaThe deceased was identified as Adarsh Poojari 23 a thirdyear MBBS student at KRIMS The injured student was identified as Raunak ChawlaOn Tuesday night both were travelling from Canacona towards Karwar on a bike when a buffalo suddenly came in front of the vehicle causing it to skidPoojari and Chawla who were injured in the incident were immediately rushed to the Canacona Community Health Centre CHC However doctors said that critically injured Poojari succumbed during treatmentOn October 26 a container lorry lost control and overturned into a ditch killing two workers on the spot and seriously injuring four others near Siddaiyanadoddi in Anekal taluk on the outskirts of BengaluruIn the accident Sriman 25 from Andhra Pradesh and Srinivas 28 the lorry driver from Jharkhand lost their livesThe lorry which was speeding downhill went out of control at a curve and rolled into the ditch trapping the bodies of the two workers inside the vehiclePolice with the help of a crane recovered the bodies and shifted the injured to a hospital IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/three-killed-as-vehicle-rams-into-tree-in-karnataka-645538.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/it-took-41-years-to-give-bharat-ratna-to-sardar-patel-hm-shah-slams-congress-645539.html New Delhi Oct 30 Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the Congress accusing it of failing to accord due recognition to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel the architect of Indias unity Union Minister Shah said it took 41 years after Patels death for the Congress government to honour him with the Bharat Ratna Indias highest civilian award Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel Union Minister Shah said After Sardar Patels death the Congress tried to erase his legacy It took 41 years to give him the Bharat Ratna But it was Prime Minister Modi who gave him the respect he truly deserved by building the Statue of UnityThe Home Minister added I have come here to inform you about the 150th anniversary celebrations of Sardar Patel in Kevadia We all know that Sardar Patel played a pivotal role in uniting India after Independence and in the formation of Ek Bharat Tomorrow marks his 150th birth anniversary and since 2014 PM Modi has visited Kevadia every year to pay tributes to himHighlighting the significance of this years celebrations HM Shah announced that the Home Ministry has decided to hold a grand parade every year on October 31 the birth anniversary of Sardar PatelThis year a Run for Unity will also be organised on a massive scale across all states union territories districts and police stations he saidUnion Minister Shah further informed that an Ek Bharat Parv will be held in Ekta Nagar from November 1 to 15 concluding on the birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa MundaDescribing Patel as more than just a leader Shah said Sardar Patel is not merely an individual but an ideology He played a crucial role in Indias freedom struggle and was the backbone of many movements led by Mahatma Gandhi who affectionately gave him the title of SardarRecalling Sardar Patels decisive role in national integration Union Minister Shah said When the entire country was celebrating Independence on August 15 Sardar Patel was in the command room monitoring operations with naval officers to secure Lakshadweep Because of his leadership our southern region became stronger and the islands became part of India IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/it-took-41-years-to-give-bharat-ratna-to-sardar-patel-hm-shah-slams-congress-645539.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah-behaving-like-kerala-wayanads-district-collector-bjp-645554.html Bengaluru Oct 30 The BJP on Thursday accused Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of behaving like the District Collector of Wayanad in Kerala It may be noted that the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency is represented by Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra The Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka made the statement Karnataka doesnt need a CM who bows to the fake Gandhi family spends our treasury like its High Commands ATM and forgets his own states farmers who put food on his table We elected a Chief Minister of Karnataka not a Puppet of Delhi not a Brand Ambassador of WayanadMr CM Siddaramaiah how long will Karnataka tolerate a Chief Minister who behaves like Wayanads District Collector and Fund raiser You signed off Rs 10 crore of Karnataka taxpayers money to Wayanad at lightning speed You gave away Rs 15 lakh to the family of a man killed by an elephant Ashoka chidedCharging CM Siddaramaiah Ashoka further noted You announced to build 100 houses in Wayanad after landslide You used Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation KSTDC Karnatakas own tourism corporation to promote Wayanad tourism Priyanka Gandhis constituencyBut when it comes to your own people There is no response he underlinedNorth Karnataka is drowning Farmers are suffering and homes washed away and 125 lakh hectares of crop damage has been reported Compensation still stuck in files surveys excuses speeches and photoops Ashoka slammedWhere is the compensation and flood relief for Kalaburagi Raichur Yadgir Bidar Vijayapura Bagalkot and Belagavi districts in Karnataka Ashoka questionedWhere is the urgency What are your priorities You moved money to another state faster than you moved money to our own disasterhit farmers This is not charity This is High command appeasement to save chair he criticisedAshoka further demanded to release full compensation immediately to affected state regions and farmers He urged CM Siddaramaiah to stop looting Karnatakas money to please fake Gandhi family Karnataka first Not Wayanad first he underlined IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-cm-siddaramaiah-behaving-like-kerala-wayanads-district-collector-bjp-645554.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-cm-transfers-over-rs-300-crore-in-scholarships-to-over-52-million-students-645555.html Bhopal Oct 30 In a landmark initiative aimed at bolstering educational access and social equity Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Thursday transferred over Rs 300 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 52 million students under the Integrated Scholarship Scheme The ceremonial event was held at Samatva Bhavan Bhopal and was attended by School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh and Tribal Welfare Minister Kunwar Vijay ShahWith a single digital click CM Yadav initiated the transfer of funds marking a significant moment in the states push for inclusive educationAddressing students and the public virtually the Chief Minister underscored the governments commitment to ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic aspirationsThe programme was broadcast live to schools across all districts allowing students and educators to witness the occasion in real timeThe Integrated Scholarship Scheme implemented by the School Education Department under the Integrated Social Security Mission encompasses 20 types of scholarships administered by six departments School Education Scheduled Caste Welfare Tribal Welfare Denotified Nomadic and SemiNomadic Welfare Backward Classes and Minority Welfare and Social JusticeThe scheme benefits students from classes 1 to 12 enrolled in both government and nongovernment schools across the stateDistrict and blocklevel celebrations were held simultaneously with eligible students participating in local scholarship distribution programs MLAs and public representatives joined these events reinforcing the schemes reach and significance at the grassroots levelThe Rs 300 crore disbursed includes seven key scholarships from the School Education Department such as the General Poor Class Scholarship Sudama PreMetric Swami Vivekananda PostMetric and scholarships for children of retired government employees fatherless girls and the only daughter in a familyThese scholarships were approved and processed through the states upgraded Education Portal 30 ensuring transparency and efficiency By integrating multiple welfare departments under one umbrella the scheme simplifies access and amplifies impact making it a model for educational support nationwide IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-cm-transfers-over-rs-300-crore-in-scholarships-to-over-52-million-students-645555.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vice-president-radhakrishnan-cm-stalin-pay-tributes-to-muthuramalinga-thevar-645561.html Chennai Oct 30 Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday paid rich tributes to freedom fighter and national icon Muthuramalinga Thevar on his 118th birth anniversary and 63rd Guru Puja observed as a festival across the state Arriving from Madurai in a military helicopter Vice President Radhakrishnan visited Pasumpon village in Ramanathapuram district where he garlanded Thevars statue and offered floral tributesSenior BJP leaders including State president Nainar Nagenthran and national executive member H Raja accompanied him during the ceremonySpeaking to the media after the event Radhakrishnan lauded Muthuramalinga Thevars selfless service and social visionThevar was a devoted son of the soil who gave away a large portion of his land to people of other communities Praising him is akin to praising nationalism and divinity itself As the commander of Netaji Subhas Chandra Boses Indian National Army he embodied truth integrity and fearless patriotism he saidChief Minister MK Stalin accompanied by DMK MP Kanimozhi and senior ministers also paid floral tributes to Thevars statue earlier in the day at Deivapratimai in Koripalayam MaduraiHe then offered tributes at the Marudhu Pandiyar statue near Teppakulam Madurai on the occasion of their 224th Guru PujaLater CM Stalin reached Pasumpon to garland Thevars memorial and address the gatheringIn his speech the Chief Minister said We are here to honour a leader who sacrificed his life for Indias freedom and for social unity It was Kalaignar Karunanidhi who in 1969 transformed this site into a memorial and in 2007 declared Thevars birth anniversary as a State festivalElaborate threetier security arrangements were in place across Ramanathapuram district for the event Southern Region Inspector General Prem Anand Sinha supervised the security operations assisted by a DIG 20 Superintendents and 27 Additional Superintendents of PoliceOver 10000 police personnel were deployed to ensure peace and order as thousands of devotees and political workers gathered to pay their respects The days observances marked by reverence and unity reflected the enduring legacy of Muthuramalinga Thevar a symbol of courage spiritual devotion and national pride in Tamil Nadus history IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vice-president-radhakrishnan-cm-stalin-pay-tributes-to-muthuramalinga-thevar-645561.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vismaya-mohanlal-makes-her-acting-debut-with-thudakkam-645565.html Kochi Oct 30 Vismaya Mohanlal daughter of Malayalam cinema legend and Dadasaheb Phalke award winner Mohanlal is set to make her acting debut with Thudakkam directed by Jude Anthany Joseph and produced by Antony Perumbavoor under Aashirvad Cinemas The films puja ceremony was held in Kochi on Thursday marking a momentous occasion for two of Malayalam cinemas most prominent familiesSpeaking at the event Mohanlal said he had never imagined that both his children would follow him into filmsWhen I was in Class 6 I won the best actor award so did my son Appu Pranav But I never thought Id become an actor nor that my children would My daughter is named Vismaya because my life has always been full of surprises he saidWhen she decided to act we gave her our full support Both my children now have to work hard I can only be a catalystReferring to Antony Perumbavoors son who also features in the film Mohanlal quipped Antonys son too has a major role but this is not a family affair drawing laughter from the gatheringProducer Antony Perumbavoor described the project as something that cannot be expressed in words and said the decision for Vismaya to act was a collective oneJude has now become like an extended family member he addedMohanlals wife Suchithra called it an emotional dayI speak as Vismayas mother not as Mohanlals wife When she was eight and Appu was 12 we made a small home movie This year is special Lal got the Phalke Award Appu has new film release and Vismaya begins her journey Suchitra saidDirector Jude Anthany Joseph admitted he was more tense than Vismaya calling the moment surrealI grew up as a fan of Mohanlal and now Im directing his daughter he saidAntonys son Ashish Perumbavoor who also stars in Thudakkam said he was excited and proud as both families come together for something so specialAashirvad Cinemas which is producing the film was founded in 1999 by Antony Perumbavoor once Mohanlals trusted driverIn 2000 Perumbavoor secured a call sheet from Mohanlal and produced the blockbuster Narasimham laying the foundation for what is now one of the biggest production houses in Malayalam cinema IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vismaya-mohanlal-makes-her-acting-debut-with-thudakkam-645565.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-tightens-verification-of-weights-and-measures-to-protect-consumers-645572.html New Delhi Oct 30 The Department of Consumer Affairs has notified significant amendments to the Legal Metrology Government Approved Test Centre Rules 2013 These amendments mark a major milestone in expanding Indias verification infrastructure for weights and measures ensuring transparency accuracy and fairness in trade an official statement said on Thursday The revised rules aim to strengthen consumer protection promote ease of doing business and align Indias system of verification with international best practices according to the official statement The amended rules significantly broaden the scope of Government Approved Test Centres GATCs to cover 18 categories of weighing and measuring instruments including water meters energy meters gas meters clinical thermometers moisture meters flow meters sphygmomanometers and nonautomatic weighing instruments The inclusion of new categories such as flow meters breath analysers multidimensional measuring instruments and speed guns reflects the governments commitment to keeping pace with evolving technologies and industrial needs These instruments play a vital role in sectors such as healthcare transport energy and infrastructure where precision in measurement directly impacts safety quality and consumer confidence The participation of private laboratories and industries as GATCs alongside government facilities will increase verification capacity improve accessibility and reduce waiting time for industries the statement explained The initiative supports the governments vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by promoting indigenous testing facilities and leveraging publicprivate partnership to expand the national verification network The recognition of Regional Reference Standard Laboratories RRSLs and National Test House NTH laboratories as deemed GATCs ensures a nationwide network for verification of consumer facing instruments the statement said Regular and decentralised verification of weighing scales water meters energy meters etc will minimise the risk of inaccurate measurements and ensure consumers get full value for their money The amendments act as a force multiplier for State Legal Metrology Departments With Government Approved Test Centres GATCs undertaking verification work State Legal Metrology Officers can devote more time to inspection enforcement and addressing consumer grievances The Rules also introduce clarity regarding jurisdiction permitting GATCs to verify instruments within districts and across the state and harmonize verification fees through a newly inserted Fifth Schedule Rules streamline the process for GATC recognition by requiring applications to be submitted to the Joint Secretary Department of Consumer Affairs in a prescribed format They also provide clear criteria for inspection staff qualifications and technical requirements along with digital payment options for fee submission This transparent and structured approach will reduce compliance burden promote faster service delivery and foster greater confidence among industry stakeholders Union Minister of Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi said the amendment to the Legal Metrology Government Approved Test Centre Rules is a major step towards modernizing Indias legal metrology ecosystem It empowers industry participation ensures accurate measurements for consumers and strengthens the hands of our enforcement officers With this reform India is building a transparent technologydriven and selfreliant system of measurement verification that enhances fairness in trade and protects consumer rights As an OIML Certification Authority India now holds the capability to issue internationally accepted OIML certificates paving the way for domestic manufacturers to obtain globally recognised certification within the country who earlier had to rely on foreign authorities for the same This will reduce costs save time and enhance Indias competitiveness in the global measurement instrument market the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-tightens-verification-of-weights-and-measures-to-protect-consumers-645572.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rg-kar-convict-sanjoy-roys-sister-brother-in-law-booked-for-murder-of-his-minor-niece-645573.html Kolkata Oct 30 In the mysterious death of the 11yearold niece of Sanjay Roy the convict in the R G Kar case a murder case has been filed against his sister and brotherinlaw said the police on Thursday According to police sources the deceased minors grandmother Pratima Singh who is a resident of Vidyasagar Colony in south Kolkatas Alipore area could not accept the untimely death of her granddaughterShe filed a complaint against her son Bhola Singh and daughterinlaw Pooja Singh at the Alipore police station in connection with the murder of her granddaughterHowever apart from the grandmother some residents of Vidyasagar Colony on DL Khan Road in Alipore have also filed a written complaint against Bhola and Pooja for the murder of their daughterA police official said that since the complaint is of murder a case under the relevant sections has been registered against Bhola Singh and Pooja SinghThe investigation is being carried out with great seriousness We are looking into all possible angles said a senior officer of Kolkata PoliceAccording to the police Sanjoy Roys niece 11 was found hanging inside a cupboard in Vidyasagar Colony on October 19She was rushed to SSKM Hospital where she was undergoing treatment On October 20 the sixthgrade student diedIt is learnt that no one was at home at the time of the incidentThe police came to know that the deceaseds own mother and Sanjoy Roys sister had committed suicide a few years ago After that Roys father married off another daughter Pooja to Bhola SinghPooja had gone out to buy firecrackers on Sunday evening when the incident took placeResidents of the area told the police that domestic quarrels were frequent in Bholas houseMeanwhile the preliminary postmortem examination report of the 11yearold indicated that she died by suicideThe autopsy report indicated suicide after seeing evidence including marks of hanging on her neck However neighbours alleged that the father and stepmother killed the minorPratima Singh alleged that her granddaughter often came to her secretly and complained about her father and stepmother beating herShe alleged that Pooja often thrashed her stepdaughter Even before Kali Puja and Diwali the father had beaten up the minor with a beltHer grandmother and neighbours alleged that the girl died due to the torture of her stepmother and fatherBased on her complaint the police have now registered a case However no one has been arrested so far IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rg-kar-convict-sanjoy-roys-sister-brother-in-law-booked-for-murder-of-his-minor-niece-645573.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nmdc-posts-33-pc-surge-in-q2-net-profit-at-rs-1-694-crore-645574.html New Delhi Oct 30 Public sector mining major NMDC recorded a robust 33 per cent increase in net profit at Rs 1694 crore in the second quarter JulySeptember of the current financial year amid a strong domestic steel demand and resilient mining operations according to an official statement issued on Thursday The companys turnover for the second quarter surged 30 per cent to Rs 6261 crore while the profit before tax jumped 35 per cent to Rs 2271 crore The governmentowned mining company also recorded a 32 per cent rise in its EBITDA earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation to Rs 2385 crore during the quarterThe company recorded an alltime high production and sales volumes during the quarter in Q2 FY26 with the output at 1021 million tonnes up 23 per cent from the same period last year Sales of iron ore during the period reached 1072 million tonnes an increase of 10 per cent over Q2 FY25 the statement saidAmitava Mukherjee NMDC Chairman and MD said Record production record sales and strong financial growth this quarter are all indicators of our historic reliability Highquality ore supply ambitious expansion plans and responsiveness to national policy goals continue to make NMDC a key enabler of Indias industrial aspirations Going forward our strategic efforts are guided by the responsibility to achieve selfsufficiency in steelmaking raw materials while also reaching netzero emissionsNMDC is engaged in exploration and production of iron ore along with diamond production and sale of sponge iron and generation and sale of wind powerThe mining major had also set a new benchmark in FY 202425 achieving a total production of 4404 million tonnes and sales of 444 million tonnes The company also recorded its bestever Q4 sales reaching 1266 million tonnes the highest since its inceptionStrengthening its expansion plans NMDC registered a record standalone capital expenditure CAPEX of Rs 3707 crore in FY25 underlining its investment in capacity building and infrastructure projects IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nmdc-posts-33-pc-surge-in-q2-net-profit-at-rs-1-694-crore-645574.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sir-in-bengal-ceos-office-opens-multiple-communication-channels-to-update-voters-about-blos-645575.html Kolkata Oct 30 In an attempt to make things convenient for voters during the Special Intensive Revision SIR the office of the Chief Electoral Officer CEO West Bengal has opened multiple channels to update the voters about the boothlevel officers for the respective areas The CEOs office has decided to widely publicize the details of the BLOs for the respective areas along with their mobile numbers so that in case of any inconvenience faced the voters would be able to directly contact the BLO concerned and get the issues addressedThe details of the BLOs including the mobile numbers will be available at the respective websites of the CEOs office as well as that of the offices of the district magistrates who are also the district electoral officers At the same time there will be areawise awareness drives to make the voters aware of the details of the BLOs for the respective areas an insider from the CEOs office saidThe SIR for 12 Indian states including West Bengal was announced earlier this week The first stage of the threestage SIR will begin from November 4In the first phase the BLOs will reach every doorstep with the enumeration forms and collect the details of the voters concerned At the end of the first phase the draft voters list in the state will be announcedThe CEOs office at the same time has decided to open multiple channels for helping the voters to submit their dulyfilled enumeration forms Either they can submit the enumeration forms to the BLOs who reach their doorsteps or they can visit the electoral registration office of the area and submit the forms thereIn case if any voter will remain outside during the first stage he or she will be able to visit the CEOs office website and fill up the enumeration forms there online In case of any voters residing outside for professional purposes any one of his or her family members will sign and submit on his or her behalf However the signatory must write the applicants name and the relationship with him or her Remember a voters name will be enlisted in the draft list only after he or she submits the duly filledup enumeration forms the CEOs office insider saidAll these initiatives according to him are taken to make the process convenient for the voters IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sir-in-bengal-ceos-office-opens-multiple-communication-channels-to-update-voters-about-blos-645575.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/three-arrested-for-broad-daylight-murder-in-chennai-645588.html Chennai Oct 30 In a shocking case of broad daylight murder three persons including two women have been arrested in connection with the brutal killing of a youth from Puducherry in the heart of the city A senior police officer said the three accused were being questioned for further details about their connection with the remaining members of the gangOne more suspect is believed to be absconding and efforts are on to nab himThe deceased identified as Prakash was engaged in government contract work and had come to Chennai for businessrelated activitiesAccording to police the incident occurred on the 4th Main Road in Ashok Nagar where Prakash was sitting inside a luxury car conversing with his girlfriendSuddenly a fourmember gang riding two motorcycles intercepted the vehicle dragged Prakash out and hacked him to death with machetes before fleeing on WednesdayThe gruesome attack carried out in full public view sent shockwaves through the neighbourhood as terrified onlookers screamed and ran for coverPolice from the Ashok Nagar station rushed to the spot upon receiving informationPrakashs body found lying in a pool of blood beside his car was sent to the Government Royapettah Hospital for postmortem examinationBased on CCTV footage from the area police tracked and arrested three suspects Dhananchezhiyan 42 his wife Sukanya 37 and her friend Gunasundari 27 on Wednesday evening all from Vandavasi in Tiruvannamalai districtThe couple is employed with the Cuddalore Transport Department Initial investigation revealed that Sukanya had known Prakash earlier and a personal dispute is suspected to have led to the murderPolice said the assailants had trailed Prakashs vehicle for some distance before attacking him The daylight killing has created tension in the area with residents expressing fear over the brazenness of the attackSenior police officials have reviewed the spot and additional personnel have been deployed to maintain order while investigations continue IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/three-arrested-for-broad-daylight-murder-in-chennai-645588.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-calls-for-balanced-humane-approach-in-maintenance-cases-645589.html New Delhi Oct 30 The Delhi High Court has acknowledged the heavy workload and complex realities faced by family courts while underscoring the need for a balanced and humane approach in maintenance proceedings A singlejudge Bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma observed that although family courts are overburdened with emotionally charged disputes and time constraints they must strive to ensure that orders on maintenance reflect judicious application of mind and are based on available material rather than mechanical presumptionsThe volume of cases before the Family Courts is extremely high and judges are often required to hear a large number of matters each day many of which involve complex and emotionally charged disputes said Justice Sharma stressing that the Court must endeavour to strike a balance between expedition and fairness The Delhi High Courts observations came while setting aside an interim maintenance order passed by a family court and remanding the matter for fresh considerationnbspIt emphasised that decisions on maintenance especially at the interim stage must balance compassion with practicality and reasoned adjudicationJustice Sharma added that despite the detailed framework laid down by the Supreme Court family courts often deviate from settled principles or fail to provide adequate reasoning while determining interim maintenancenbspObserving that expedition cannot come at the cost of reason the Delhi High Court said that even interim orders must disclose the rationale behind the maintenance figure While it may not be possible to undertake a detailed examination of every financial detail at the interim stage the orders passed should not suffer from lack of reasoning or absence of clarity as to how the quantum of maintenance has been arrived at the judgment readThe Delhi HC said that delays are often caused by parties themselves who file incomplete or evasive affidavits of income and assets adding to the strain on family courts Yet it stressed judicial officers must ensure that even within practical limitations the orders reflect fairness and transparencynbspThis exercise is not a mere financial calculation but a judicial responsibility that affects the dignity sustenance and stability of lives Therefore orders on maintenance must reflect not only correctness in law but also an understanding of the human conditions that lie beneath the pleadings presented before the Courts Justice Sharma observedThe Delhi High Court directed that copies of its judgment be circulated to all principal district judges and family courts across Delhi and to the Delhi Judicial Academy for inclusion in training modules Let a copy of this judgment be circulated to all the learned Principal District and Sessions Judges of the District Courts in Delhi with a direction to circulate the same to all Judicial Officers particularly those presiding over the Family Courts so that the observations made herein are duly noted and complied with in letter and spirit it directed IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-calls-for-balanced-humane-approach-in-maintenance-cases-645589.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-power-clocks-strong-financial-performance-in-q2-power-sale-volume-up-74-pc-645591.html Ahmedabad Oct 30 Adani Power Ltd APL on Thursday reported strong continuing operating revenue for Q2 FY26 of Rs 1310634 crore compared to Rs 1294912 Crore in Q2 FY25 on the basis of higher volumes as the company registered higher consolidated power sale volume by 74 per cent at 237 billion units despite high base effect and demand disruption due to early and prolonged monsoons The Adani Group company reported stable consolidated EBITDA for Q2 at Rs 6001 crore compared to Rs 6000 crore for Q2 FY25 despite additional operating expenses of recent acquisitions yearonyearIn the JulySeptember period the company witnessed new longterm power purchase agreement PPAs awards of 2400 MW from Bihar Discom 1600 MW from Madhya Pradesh Discom and 570 MW from Karnataka Discom by October 25Adani Power also acquired 600 MW Vidarbha Industries Power Limited under Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process taking total capacity to 18150 MWAdani Power has once again demonstrated robust and stable financial performance this quarter in the face of weatherdriven fluctuations in demand highlighting our operational efficiency and competitive advantages We are steadily expanding our presence in the market by securing another 45 GW of new longterm PPAs under the SHAKTI scheme said SB Khyalia CEO Adani Power LimitedOur strong profitability and liquidity position us well to achieve our enhanced capacity expansion goal of 42 GW by 203132 We have already arranged ordering for equipment and land for the entire 237 GW expansion with project implementation progressing rapidly he mentionedMerchant and shortterm sale volume for Q2 FY26 was 129 per cent higher at 57 BU as compared to 50 BU in Q2 FY25 Similarly the merchant volume was 105 per cent higher at 114 BU for H1 FY26 as compared to 103 BU for H1 FY25We are proud to play a pivotal role in Indias power sector growth and stay strongly committed to supporting the nations need for dependable scalable and sustainable electricity said Khyalia IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-power-clocks-strong-financial-performance-in-q2-power-sale-volume-up-74-pc-645591.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-crime-branch-busts-inter-state-charas-network-four-held-315-kg-contraband-seized-645594.html New Delhi Oct 30 In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking under the DrugsFree Delhi drive the Delhi Police Crime Branch has busted an interstate drug supply network arresting four accused and recovering 3150 kg of finequality charas valued at approximately Rs 12 crore in the international market A Santro car used to smuggle the contraband was also seized  According to Delhi Police the AntiRobbery and Snatching Cell ARSC team intercepted a vehicle near Mukandpur Chowk on October 22 following a tipoff about a supplier arriving from Mandi Himachal PradeshThe car driven by Chunni Lal was chased for nearly five kilometres before being stopped Despite searches yielding nothing initially a dog squad was called and K9 unit dog Amro detected the charas concealed inside a speciallydesigned cavity in the vehicleDog Amro from dog squad K9 arrived at the spot and did a wonderful job and traced out the contraband which was hidden in a cavity of the car The said cavity was specially designed by the accused for the transportation of contraband Total 2060 Kg Charas having international market value of Rs 80 Lakh was seized from their possession the police said in its press notePolice said Chunni Lal had earlier been convicted in a Himachal Pradesh NDPS case and spent 10 years in jail before being released in 2023He allegedly resumed drug trafficking soon after Based on his interrogation the supplier Prakash Chand of Kullu Himachal Pradesh was also arrested on October 28In a separate operation on October 24 the same team apprehended Mumbai resident Yogesh Kolambekar from Mukarba Chowk with 1092 kg of charasKolambekar a tile showroom employee and parttime bhajan singer allegedly sourced the contraband from Himachal and was planning to transport it to MumbaiPolice said he is a habitual charas consumer for the past 20 years and also supplied it to acquaintances in a bhajan groupDuring questioning the accused revealed a surge in demand for charas in DelhiNCR and Mumbai during the festive seasonPolice said the contraband was traced back to suppliers in the upper forest belts of Kullu allegedly cultivated by Nepalese groupsFurther investigation of both the cases is continued to trace out the other suppliers and receivers of the contraband said DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-crime-branch-busts-inter-state-charas-network-four-held-315-kg-contraband-seized-645594.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sensex-nifty-end-lower-as-global-cues-weigh-on-sentiment-645597.html Mumbai Oct 30 IANS Indian stock markets closed sharply lower on Thursday tracking weak global trends after the US Federal Reserve cut interest rates as expected but hinted that it could be the final cut of 2025nbspInvestor sentiment also remained cautious ahead of fresh updates on USChina trade talksnbspThe Sensex fell 59267 points or 07 per cent to close at 8440446 while the Nifty declined 17605 points or 068 per cent to settle at 2587785nbspThe Nifty struggled to hold higher levels with persistent selling dragging it lower On the technical front the Nifty has formed an immediate support zone near 25800 while resistance is capped around 26000 experts statedAmong Sensex constituents Larsen ampamp Toubro LampampT was the top gainer rising 091 per cent BEL Maruti Suzuki Adani Ports and Titan also gainednbspMeanwhile Bharti Airtel Power Grid Tech Mahindra Infosys and Bajaj Finance were the major laggards falling over 1 per cent eachnbspIn the broader market the Nifty MidCap 100 index slipped up 009 per cent while the Nifty SmallCap 100 dipped 01 per cent showing mixed movement among smaller stocksnbspMost sectoral indices ended in the red except for Nifty Energy which managed to stay positiveNifty Financial Services declined 07 per cent while IT Auto Metal Pharma Bank and Oil ampamp Gas also slippednbspAs expected the US Fed cut interest rates by 25 bps However the market consolidated after Powell indicated that this might be the last rate cut of 2025 tempering hopes of further monetary easing analysts saidnbspThey added that the resulting strength in the US dollar contributed to a riskoff sentiment across emerging markets including IndianbspMeanwhile investors remain watchful of the TrumpXi trade negotiations as the prevailing uncertainty around the discussions continues to keep market sentiment cautious experts mentioned https://dailyworld.in/national/sensex-nifty-end-lower-as-global-cues-weigh-on-sentiment-645597.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 15:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/developing-bihar-top-priority-nda-govt-working-to-put-chhath-on-unesco-world-heritage-list-pm-modi--645598.html Patna Oct 30 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a blistering attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav accusing them of making false promises He also stated that developing Bihar was top priority for the NDA government and added that the government was working to get Chhath Mahaparv included in UNESCOs World Heritage listnbspnbspAddressing a massive election rally in Muzaffarpur on Thursday the Prime Minister said that developing Bihar was a top priority for the NDA governmentnbspWhen India was prosperous and a global power in knowledge and science Bihar played a vital role To build a developed India Bihars development is essential But the RJD and Congress who ruled for years only betrayed the people he saidCriticizing the Opposition further PM Modi said the RJD and Congress are identified by five things guns cruelty bitterness misgovernance and corruptionnbspThose who kept Bihar in the lantern age cannot provide electricity Those who looted the railways cannot improve connectivity Those whose history is one of land grabbing cannot bring industries Where there is corruption there can be no social justice he saidnbspPM Modi also announced that the government is working to get Chhath Mahaparv included in UNESCOs World Heritage list describing it as a great festival of humanitynbspChhath Mahaparv is the pride of Bihar and the country Its worship embodies devotion equality and social harmony he saidHe also slammed the Opposition Bloc without naming Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and RJD leader Tejashwi YadavnbspHe said that both leaders have opened a shop of false promises ahead of the electionsnbspIn the electoral battle of Bihar a pair of young men who consider themselves princes have opened a shop of false promises One is the prince of Indias most corrupt family and the other is the prince of Bihars most corrupt family Both are out on bail in multibilliondollar scams Modi saidnbspHe accused the Opposition leaders of repeatedly insulting him and the people of BiharYesterday both of them hurled abuses at Modi Those born into privilege will naturally abuse a hardworking man They cant digest their food without insulting Dalits and backward classes the Prime Minister saidnbspReferring to alleged remarks made about the Chhath Mahaparv PM Modi said the RJD and Congress leaders had insulted Chhathi Maiya a goddess deeply revered in BiharnbspFor them the worship of Chhathi Maiya is a farce a drama Can such an insult be tolerated by Bihar by Hindustan and by my mothers who observe a waterless fast The women who stand in rivers to offer prayers to the Sun God in the eyes of RJD and Congress they are just acting Modi saidnbspNo one in Bihar will ever forget this insult to Chhathi Maiya he addedPM Modi urged voters to reject the politics of deceit and support the NDA for a prosperous and developed BiharnbspHe pointed out that Bihar has transformed under BJPNDA rule contrasting the states development with the lawlessness during the RJD regimenbspThe Prime Minister said the people of Bihar have witnessed the difference between the days of jungle raj and the era of good governancenbspBihar has witnessed the good governance of the BJPNDA Today railway engines are being manufactured in Bihar large dairy plants are being set up and makhana fox nuts are being exported across the world When we remember the days of jungle raj we realize how dangerous the situation was Modi saidRecalling the infamous Golu kidnapping cum murder case of 2001 that shook Muzaffarpur during the RJD government he said such incidents symbolized the fear that gripped Bihar in those yearsnbspA young boy named Golu was kidnapped in broad daylight while going to school The criminals demanded a huge ransom and when it was not paid they killed that innocent child Around 35 to 40 thousand kidnappings took place during the RJD rule That was the reality of jungle raj the Prime Minister saidnbspPM Modi accused the RJD and Congress of returning to the same dangerous mindsetYou cannot trust their intentions Just look at their audacity their election campaign songs talk about bullets pistols and doublebarrelled guns This reflects their mindset he saidnbspHighlighting womens empowerment under the NDA the Prime Minister said that both his government and Chief Minister Nitish Kumars government have prioritized the welfare of womennbspWhether its Narendra Modi or Nitish Kumar empowering women has always been our priority We provided pucca houses to the poor in womens names gave tap water free gas connections and free food grains to reduce their hardships Modi saidHe also praised Bihars womens selfemployment scheme under which Rs 10000 each has been deposited in the accounts of 121 crore womennbspWith this money the women of Bihar are starting their own small ventures I assure you that we will not stop here the Prime Minister saidnbspPM Modis remarks came as part of the BJPs intensified campaign ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections as he urged voters to reject those who dragged Bihar into darkness and support the NDA for continued development and stability https://dailyworld.in/national/developing-bihar-top-priority-nda-govt-working-to-put-chhath-on-unesco-world-heritage-list-pm-modi--645598.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-to-hear-on-nov-4-pleas-challenging-online-gaming-act-2025-645601.html New Delhi Oct 30 IANS The Supreme Court on Thursday said that it will hear on November 4 a batch of petitions transferred to it from various High Courts challenging the constitutional validity of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act 2025nbspThe Act which was cleared by Parliament earlier this year prohibits all forms of online money games and restricts banking advertising and other related services while promoting and regulating social educational and esportsbased gamingThe matter was mentioned for urgent hearing before a Bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and KV Viswanathan by senior advocates C Aryaman Sundaram and Arvind P Datar appearing for petitioners whose cases were earlier pending before different High CourtsSundaram submitted that the issue had already been mentioned before the Chief Justice of India CJI for urgent listingMy instructing AdvocateonRecord had mentioned the matter before the learned CJI who observed that it would be in the fitness of things if this Bench were to direct that the matter be taken up on November 4 as scheduled he saidIn response Justice Pardiwala said Then we will hear it Earlier on September 8 the Supreme Court had transferred to itself multiple petitions pending before the Delhi Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh High Courts challenging the constitutional validity of the Online Gaming ActThe Union government had sought the transfer to avoid multiplicity of proceedings across different courtsThe proceedings from Karnataka Delhi and Madhya Pradesh High Courts stand transferred to this Court Respective High Courts are directed to transfer entire records with all interlocutory applications filed within one week the apex court had ordered directing that the matter be listed before the apex court once the complete records were receivedSeveral online gaming companies including Dream11 Pokerbazi and Rummy Circle have already discontinued their realmoney contests following the enforcement of the new lawUnder the Act offering or promoting such games attracts severe penalties including fines of up to Rs 1 crore and imprisonment of up to three yearsDuring the Monsoon Session Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw introduced the Bill which was passed by the Lok Sabha in seven minutes and cleared by the Rajya Sabha in just 26 minutes Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said the legislation would protect society from the adverse impact of online money games https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-to-hear-on-nov-4-pleas-challenging-online-gaming-act-2025-645601.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/anil-ambanis-reliance-group-used-dozens-of-shell-entities-to-divert-funds-cobrapost-report-645603.html New Delhi Oct 30 News website Cobrapost in its report on the alleged siphoning of Rs 28874 crore by the Anil Ambaniled Reliance Group on Thursday claimed that the modus operandi deployed included the use of dozens of passthrough entities called Special Purpose Vehicles SPVs subsidiaries shell companies or offshore entities based in the British Virgin Islands BVI Cyprus Mauritius the United States the United Kingdom and Singapore to route funds to Reliance Innoventure the main holding company of the group This was allegedly done by way of granting loans to subsidiaries and allotment of debentures and preference shares and siphoning off those funds using SPVs or shell entities and then writing off the loansThis way the ADA Group companies allegedly siphoned off Rs 28874 crore even as US153 billion was diverted to India in suspicious transactions Almost all of the offshore funds which landed in the ADA Group entities were raised in external commercial borrowings according to the reportCobrapost highlights the purchase of a luxury yacht for 20 million in 2008 which the report alleges was bought by diverting funds from Reliance Communication to Reliance Transport amp Travels Pvt Ltd an ADA Group subsidiary This was done in a circuitous manner with layers added at each step to camouflage the diversion of the fundThere are many such instances of diversion of funds which the Cobrapost investigation has catalogued The companies involved are Reliance Communication Reliance Capital Reliance Home Finance Ltd Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd and Reliance Corporate Advisory Services Ltd We have identified dozens of subsidiaries and shell entities which are involved in this fraud the Cobrapost report allegesReliance Home Finance is alleged to have diverted around Rs 7965 crore to 49 related entities ultimately these funds landed in 14 ADAcontrolled entities Reliance Commercial Finance too allegedly channelled Rs 49799 crore through 27 companies to promoter interests Further Reliance Corporate Advisory Services is accused of diverting Rs 1400 crore via intercorporate loans with zero interest the report allegesHowever Reliance ADA group has dismissed Cobraposts report as a malicious and agendadriven campaign and alleged that the media platforms socalled exposé is a deliberate attempt to damage the groups reputation and mislead stakeholders The Anil Ambaniled company alleged Cobrapost has been dormant since 2019 and its revival is fully funded by entities with direct commercial interest in acquiring Reliance Group assets IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/anil-ambanis-reliance-group-used-dozens-of-shell-entities-to-divert-funds-cobrapost-report-645603.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/brs-lodges-complaint-against-telangana-cm-for-poll-code-violation-645604.html Hyderabad Oct 30 The Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS has complained to the Election Commission of India ECI against Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct MCC while campaigning for the byeelection to the Jubilee Hills Assembly seat The BRS alleged that the Chief Minister tried to influence the film workers by making promises during a meeting with them in the constituencyA delegation of BRS leaders led by former minister and senior BRS MLA Gangula Kamalakar submitted the complaint to Chief Electoral Officer Sudharshan Reddy The opposition party demanded that the Chief Minister be removed as the star campaigner of the Congress for MCC violation and debar him from participating in any further campaignThe party mentioned that the constituency comprises several thousand cine industry workers who form a significant part of the electorateThe BRS leaders brought the notice of the Election Commission that during a socalled felicitation programme organised by the Association of Cine Workers on Tuesday the Chief Minister made several promises and assurances which are barred under the MCCThe BRS leaders stated that despite prior intimation and complaint by the party the Election Commission failed to prevent the meeting and thus allowed a blatant misuse of official position and state machineryThe BRS demanded registration of a criminal case against CM Revanth Reddy for violation of the MCC and for committing electoral offences under relevant provisions of lawThey also lodged a separate complaint against Congress candidate Naveen Yadav for violating MCC and demanded that he be disqualifiedThe BRS said during a public interaction on Wednesday Naveen Yadav made threatening abusive and intimidating statements against the leaders and workers of BRS It said The Congress leaders publicly stated that opposition leaders will be crushed driven away and taught a lessonThe BRS demanded that Naveen Yadav be disqualified and debarred from contesting or campaigning in the byelection and a FIR be registered against himIt also urged the Election Commission to provide protection to BRS leaders and workersMeanwhile BRS working president K T Rama Rao said that after two years in power the Congress party was waking up to ground realitiesHe was reacting to the Chief Ministers promises to cine workers and reports that former Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin will be inducted in the state CabinetI guess desperate times call for desperate measures After 2 years in Govt it looks like the Congress party is finally waking up to ground realities promising the moon to cine workers inducting Azharuddin in the cabinet and ministers desperately running around in Hyderabad Gullies like never before KTR posted on X on ThursdayLet me reiterate when the Congress is made to lose its deposit in Jubilee Hills byelection only then will they start implementing the 6 guarantees and 420 promises made in 2023 Time to teach a lesson to Congress and its leadership he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/brs-lodges-complaint-against-telangana-cm-for-poll-code-violation-645604.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/up-cm-yogi-adityanath-reviews-navy-shaurya-museum-project-calls-for-early-completion--645606.html Lucknow Oct 30 IANS Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday directed officials to ensure timely construction of Navy Shaurya Museum His instructions came while reviewing presentation on the upcoming museum in Lucknow during a Culture Department meetingnbspHe said that the museum would stand as a living symbol of the Indian Navys indomitable valour and Indias maritime prowess in the Indian Ocean regionThe Chief Minister remarked that the sea has long been the crucible of Indian civilization and the Indian Navy represents the modern embodiment of that glorious maritime tradition The museum he said would serve as an important vehicle for bringing this legacy to the peopleThe complex will include an interpretation centre central deck openair memorial thematic walkways exhibition galleries fountains and a lightandsound arena Its energyefficient design will emphasise natural light ventilation and green construction techniques to promote sustainabilityThe Chief Minister emphasised that the museum should not merely serve as a visual display but as an experience centre where visitors can engage with history through digital interactive and immersive technologies He directed that exhibits allow visitors to experience naval operations warfare and technological innovations firsthand and that detailed information on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharajs maritime vision and legacy be prominently showcasedThe project is being developed in two key segments the INS Gomati Shaurya Smarak Sacred Memorial and the Nausena Shaurya Vatika The INS Gomati F21 an indigenous Godavariclass missile frigate that served the Indian Navy for 34 years and took part in operations like Operation Cactus and Operation Parakram will be preserved and displayed within the complex enabling citizens and youth to witness its heroic legacy up closeA TU142 aircraft which served the Navy for 29 years in maritime surveillance and disaster relief is being installed in the garden along with a proposed exhibition of the Sea King SK42B helicopterThe museum complex will also feature a 7D theatre aircraft carrier landing simulator warship simulator submerged Dwarka model digital waterscreen show marine life aquarium and participatory activities such as Dress Like Your Heroes In addition interactive galleries dedicated to the Navys gallantry awards historic missions and indigenous defence innovations will be developedThe Chief Minister stated that the museum will rekindle Uttar Pradeshs ancient maritime heritage which once served as a vital link in Indias coastal trade and Indian Ocean connectivityHe said The Navy Shaurya Museum in Lucknow will not only embody the valor of the Indian Navy but also reflect the enduring maritime spirit of India It will give Uttar Pradesh a proud new identity on the national tourism mapIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/up-cm-yogi-adityanath-reviews-navy-shaurya-museum-project-calls-for-early-completion--645606.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-l-g-terminates-services-of-two-govt-employees-for-terror-links-645609.html Srinagar Oct 30 Jammu and Kashmir JampK Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday terminated two government employees from service under Article 311 for their involvement in terrorrelated activities reaffirming the administrations zerotolerance policy against terrorism An official statement said that the terminated employees include Ghulam Hussain a teacher in the Education Department He has been accused of acting as an Over Ground Worker OGW for the LashkareTaiba LeT maintaining links with terrorists and facilitating recruitment and funding in Reasi districtThe other person whose services have been terminated is Majid Iqbal Dar a teacher and former Lab Assistant allegedly engaged in narcoterrorism radicalisation of youth and terror financing through drug money with connections to IED plots in Rajouri and continued subversive activities even during detentionArticle 311 of the Indian Constitution protects civil servants from arbitrary dismissal removal or reduction in rank It mandates that they must be given a reasonable opportunity to be heard after being informed of the charges and they cannot be dismissed by an authority subordinate to their appointing authorityHowever this protection is not absolute and has exceptions such as cases involving criminal convictions or security concerns where an enquiry may be waivedJampK Lt governor Manoj Sinha has so far terminated many persons found involved in terror links and after sufficient and convincing evidence that the continuation of such a person as a civil servant endangers the security of the stateIn addition to this security forces and JampK police have been carrying out aggressive operations against terrorists their OGWs and sympathisersThe revised strategy is aimed at dismantling the complete ecosystem of terror instead of merely targeting the gunwielding terrorists Drug smugglers drug peddlers and those involved in financial scams and hawala money rackets are also on the scanner of the security forcesIt is believed that the funds generated through these unlawful activities are finally used to sustain terrorism in JampK IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-l-g-terminates-services-of-two-govt-employees-for-terror-links-645609.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cm-slams-rahul-gandhi-for-vote-bank-politics-over-chhath-puja-645610.html New Delhi Oct 30 IANS Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday launched a sharp attack on Leader of Opposition LoP in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi accusing him of lacking commitment to public welfare and engaging in votebank politicsnbsp nbspThe remarks came during her visit to Darbhanga in Bihar where she spoke to IANS on LoP Rahul Gandhis recent political statements and his comments related to Chhath PujaTaking a jibe at the Congress leader Gupta said PM Modi has been continuously working in the service of the nation and many people cant digest that fact As for Rahul Gandhi he appears from time to time like an electionseason frog comes out for a bit says something and then disappearsShe added that the people of Bihar and the country know his true character and claimed he has neither worked for the welfare of the public in the past nor would do so in the futureResponding to Gandhis criticism regarding Chhath celebrations in Delhi the Delhi CM accused him of insulting the sentiments of Purvanchali communitiesThose who are pained to see that what never happened in Delhi in the last 27 years of Congress and AAP is now happening under the BJP can remain in pain the CM remarkedIf you insult Chhath Maiya and humiliate Purvanchal brothers and sisters for votebank politics it will not be allowed The people of Purvanchal and Bihar understand this she assertedNotably her statements come a day after Rahul Gandhi while addressing a rally in Muzaffarpur where he said PM Modis politics was driven by drama and deception citing the PMs recent symbolic Yamuna bath during Chhath PujaThere was no Yamuna ji therejust a pond filled with clean water for Modi ji Clean water was brought through pipes for his photoop while the real India bathes in polluted water LoP Rahul Gandhi saidTurning to Bihars development Gandhi said the states youth have been denied opportunities for decades under Nitish Kumars ruleFor 20 years Nitish Kumar has run the government but what has he done for education health or jobs he asked calling the JDUBJP alliance a remotecontrolled government run by DelhiIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cm-slams-rahul-gandhi-for-vote-bank-politics-over-chhath-puja-645610.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-infuriated-with-afghanistan-exercising-sovereignty-over-its-own-territories-mea-645611.html New Delhi Oct 30 IANS Emphasising that Pakistan is infuriated with Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its own territories India on Thursday slammed Islamabad for thinking that it has the right to practice crossborder terrorism with impunitynbspWhile addressing a regular media briefing on Thursday the Ministry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also expressed New Delhis full commitment to the sovereignty territorial integrity and independence of AfghanistanI reiterate what I had said in my last briefing Pakistan is infuriated with Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its own territories Pakistan seems to think that it has the right to practice crossborder terrorism with impunity Its neighbours find it unacceptable India remains fully committed to the sovereignty territorial integrity and independence of Afghanistan said JaiswalThe MEA spokespersons remarks come amid escalating tensions between Kabul and Islamabad after Pakistani forces carried out crossborder operations in Afghanistan The fresh round of talks between delegations of both countries held in Turkey earlier this week also failed to yield any outcomeOn Wednesday Pakistans Defence Minister Khawaja Asif issued a stern warning to Afghan Taliban stating that they can test the resolve of Islamabad at their own peril and doom He added that Pakistan does not even need to use a fraction of its full arsenal to completely obliterate the Taliban and push them back to the caves for hiding Pakistanbased Geo News reportedIn a statement shared on X Pakistans Defence Minister stated We have borne your treachery and mockery for too long but no more Any terrorist attack or any suicide bombing inside Pakistan shall give you the bitter taste of such misadventures Be assured and test our resolve and capabilities if you wish so at your own peril and doomLet me assure them that Pakistan does not require to employ even a fraction of its full arsenal to completely obliterate the Taliban regime and push them back to the caves for hiding If they wish so the repeat of the scenes of their rout at Tora Bora with their tails between the legs would surely be a spectacle to watch for the people of the region he addedOn Tuesday Afghanistan had also issued a stern warning to Pakistan vowing a strong response to any future military strikes after talks in Islamabad had collapsed following Islamabads withdrawal Citing sources Afghan media outlet Ariana News reported that Pakistan withdrew from the negotiations after presenting what the Afghan delegation described as unreasonable and unacceptable demands including a call for Kabul to recall and exert control over armed individuals allegedly operating against Pakistan a demand the Afghan side rejected It added that if Pakistan launches airstrikes on Afghan soil Afghan forces stand ready to retaliate against IslamabadIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-infuriated-with-afghanistan-exercising-sovereignty-over-its-own-territories-mea-645611.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/drdo-developed-testedspecialised-food-and-parachutes-for-gaganyaan-mission-645618.html New Delhi Oct 30 Advancing the Gaganyaan mission the Defence Research and Development Organization DRDO on Thursday said that it has developed as well as tested specialised food and parachute systems for the Gaganyatris Gaganyaan Indias first human spaceflight is scheduled to launch in 2027 The mission will carry astronauts to low Earth orbit for a threeday mission and bring them back safely to EarthSpeaking to IANS on the sidelines of the DRDO Industry Synergy Meet in Bengaluru Dr BK Das Director General of Electronics and Communication at DRDO said that from developing products and technologies for the armed forces the premier institute has also spread its wings into the space domain with ISROThere are a lot of activities happening on the Gaganyaan mission at DRDO We have developed specialised food required for the mission and specialised systems for parachutes We have also got specialised technologies for astronauts who can be dependent on our own systems products Das saidHe noted that the DRDO is ensuring dual use of technologies developed for the armed forces for the ISRO programmesMany of the technologies have been developed tested and have been collaborated with the ISRO Das saidHe also noted that phase one and phase two tests of the technologies developed conducted both in laboratories and in external environments have produced very good resultsI think both ISRO and the DRDO have got a good satisfaction level from the tests he said adding that still some more work is left and it should be completed soonBe sure there is a part of the DRDO in the Gaganyaan programme and we will be happy to contribute much more to the ISRO programme Das told IANSEarlier this week ISRO chief Dr V Narayanan also spoke about the Gaganyaan mission the progress made under the countrys first human spaceflight missionNarayanan highlighted that the development work for the Gaganyaan Mission is nearing completion with about 85 to 90 per cent of subsystemlevel activities finalisedWe are now conducting integrated tests and software validation Three uncrewed missions will be launched before the crewed flight to ensure full safety and system reliability the ISRO Chief told IANS IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/drdo-developed-testedspecialised-food-and-parachutes-for-gaganyaan-mission-645618.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-take-salute-of-parade-to-pay-tribute-to-sardar-patel-tomorrow-hm-amit-shah-645619.html Patna Oct 30 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid rich tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on the eve of his 150th birth anniversary and announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take the salute of the grand parade to be held in Ekta Nagar on October 31nbspAddressing a press conference on the celebrations planned to mark the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas2025 HM Shah said that the Ministry has decided that a grand parade will take place every year on October 31 in front of his magnificent statue in Gujarats KevadiaHe said that Sardar Patel made an immense contribution in uniting the country after independence building todays India and creating a united countrynbspHe said that since 2014 PM Modi has been coming to Kevadia every year on October 31 where a grand parade is heldnbspHM Shah said that this parade is organised to honour all the Central Armed Police Forces CAPFs and the police forces of the states to reaffirm the unity and integrity of the nationUnion Home Minister informed that this year it has been decided to organise the Run for Unity on a much larger scalenbspThe run is being conducted across all states Union Territories district police stations schools and universities throughout the countrynbspHM Shah said that after the run every citizen will also take the Unity Pledge for the unity and integrity of the nationnbspHe said that on the occasion of Sardar Patels 150th birth anniversary Bharat Parv is being organised at Ekta Nagar from November 1 and it will conclude on November 15 coinciding with the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa MundaHe said that Bharat Parv will culminate with a grand celebration of tribal culture and cultural programs on November 15 This programme will showcase a wonderful synthesis of the cultural diversity food costumes crafts folk art and music of tribes from across the countrynbspHe said that during this national parade the Central Armed Police Forces CAPFs and the police forces of several states will showcase their skills discipline and braverynbspHe said that this years parade will also include five Shaurya Chakra awardees from the CRPF and 16 gallantry medal winners from the BSFnbspThe parade will be led by women police officers and feature a variety of cultural performances he said https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-take-salute-of-parade-to-pay-tribute-to-sardar-patel-tomorrow-hm-amit-shah-645619.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/raja-raghuvanshi-murder-case-meghalaya-police-to-file-supplementary-chargesheet-naming-3-more-645622.html Shillong Oct 30 Meghalaya Police are set to file a supplementary chargesheet in the highprofile murder case of Indorebased businessman Raja Raghuvanshi naming three additional individuals accused of destroying or concealing key evidence officials confirmed on Thursday East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police SP Vivek Syiem said the supplementary chargesheet will name Silome James Lokendra Singh Tomar and Balbir Ahirwar as persons allegedly involved in tampering with crucial materials linked to the investigationThe upcoming chargesheet will not be extensive it mainly pertains to the destruction of evidence The main chargesheet has already been filed Syiem saidEarlier the police had submitted a comprehensive 790page main chargesheet copies of which were handed over to the legal aid defence counsel on October 28 The primary chargesheet names five key accused Sonam Raghuvanshi Raj Kushwaha Vishal Chauhan Anand Kurmi and Akash Rajput under sections related to murder criminal conspiracy and destruction of evidenceAll the five accused are currently in judicial custody and their bail plea moved on October 17 was rejected by the court Officials confirmed that none of the families of the accused have so far appointed private legal representatives with the District Legal Services Authority DLSA providing legal aid as mandated under law Copies of the chargesheet have already been shared with the courtappointed defence counselGovind Raghuvanshi brother of the prime accused Sonam Raghuvanshi said the family has not yet decided whether to engage a private lawyer We will review the chargesheet and decide our next course of action There has been no communication with Sonam since her arrest he said denying any external influence on their decisionsSources added that the charges framed against the five main accused have been clearly explained to them following the formal filing of the main chargesheet Police officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring accountability for all individuals involved directly or indirectly in the killing of Raja RaghuvanshiThe murder of Raja Raghuvanshi a young businessman from Indore had sent shockwaves across Meghalaya earlier this year exposing a complex web of alleged conspiracy betrayal and personal enmity According to investigators Raghuvanshi was killed following a series of personal and financial disputesThe case gained widespread public attention due to the alleged involvement of his wife Sonam Raghuvanshi who has been named the prime accused in the case Police have maintained that the evidence against the main accused is watertight while further investigation into the destruction of key materials led to the identification of three additional suspects who are now likely to be named in the supplementary chargesheet IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/raja-raghuvanshi-murder-case-meghalaya-police-to-file-supplementary-chargesheet-naming-3-more-645622.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-palaniswami-reiterates-bharat-ratna-demand-for-muthuramalinga-thevar-on-guru-puja-day-645623.html Chennai Oct 30 AIADMK General Secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Thursday reiterated his longstanding demand that freedom fighter and spiritual leader Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar be conferred with the Bharat Ratna the nations highest civilian honour Speaking to reporters after paying floral tributes at Thevars memorial in Pasumpon village near Kamuthi in Ramanathapuram district Palaniswami recalled the multifaceted contributions of the revered leader who he described as a symbol of nationalism sacrifice and divine devotion Today on the occasion of Thevar Ayyas 118th birth anniversary and Guru Puja day on behalf of the AIADMK I along with senior leaders former ministers and MLAs paid homage at his memorial Palaniswami said He noted that during the tenure of former Chief Minister MG Ramachandran Thevars birth anniversary was officially declared as a state celebration a tradition that continues to this day Palaniswami lauded Thevars deep sense of nationalism and his spiritual strength saying He lived considering divinity and patriotism as the two eyes of his life He added that revolutionary leader MG Ramachandran unveiled Thevars fulllength portrait in the State Assembly as a mark of honour while later under Jayalalithaas leadership a golden covering weighing about 13 kilograms was installed over Thevars idol at his memorial Recalling Thevars life of struggle Palaniswami said the leader had spent nearly 4000 days in prison for participating in various movements for the peoples welfare He also highlighted Thevars electoral successes in the Aruppukottai parliamentary and Mudukulathur assembly constituencies which he said demonstrated his immense popularity among the masses Describing Thevar as a man of unmatched generosity Palaniswami noted that he had donated thousands of acres of his own land to the poor and to Scheduled Caste families for their livelihood and upliftment Reiterating AIADMKs longstanding demand Palaniswami said We have already written to the Union Home Minister requesting that Bharat Ratna be awarded to Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar in recognition of his service to the nation and humanity It would be an honour for the entire country if the government confers this award on such a noble soul IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-palaniswami-reiterates-bharat-ratna-demand-for-muthuramalinga-thevar-on-guru-puja-day-645623.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-extends-online-cyber-fir-to-cases-of-rs-1-lakh-and-above-645624.html New Delhi Oct 30 In a major step towards citizenfriendly policing and digital transformation of law enforcement services Delhi Police has decided to launch the registration of cyber eFIR with effect from November 1 on complaints of cyber financial frauds involving an amount of Rs 1 lakh or more which is presently in prevalence for cyber financial frauds involving an amount of Rs 10 lacs or more According to a press note issued by Delhi Police on Thursday From November 1 2025 a complainant can visit any police station where staff at the Integrated Help Desk will register hisher complaint and eFIR in case if amount is more than Rs 1 lakh immediatelyAll these eFIRs will be investigated at par with regular FIRs in their respective jurisdictional cyber police stations Crime Branch and Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations IFSOSuch registration of eFIR at Police station level is likely to ensure prompt and thorough investigation by the police within 72 hours leading to enhanced seizure and recovery of defrauded amount the police saidThis initiative aims to provide a faster more transparent and convenient mechanism for victims of online financial scams ensuring that prompt legal action is initiated even in cases of cyber financial frauds where the amount is less than Rs 10 lacsPresently citizens register their complaints by calling National Cyber Helpline 1930 or through the portal httpscybercrimegovin only it saidThis service aims to facilitate residents of Delhi by simplifying the process of registration of cybercrimes such as online investment frauds UPI scams identity thefts and other financial deceptionsThis initiative integrates digital verification and realtime acknowledgement features to enhance accountability and eliminate delays in the FIR registration processBesides Delhi Police once again urge all residents to remain extra alertvigilant against online frauds the note saidIt also added that Cyber Safety Awareness Campaigns and Cyber Safety Workshops both physically and online for all sections of society particularly children women and senior citizens will continue to be conducted across the city to keep citizens informed IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-extends-online-cyber-fir-to-cases-of-rs-1-lakh-and-above-645624.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-45-day-wedding-season-to-generate-rs-65-lakh-crore-create-1-crore-part-time-jobs-report-645625.html New Delhi Oct 30 Indias 45day wedding season starting November 1 is projected to generate an unprecedented Rs 65 lakh crore from an estimated 46 lakh weddings a report said on Thursday Delhi is expected to contribute Rs 18 lakh crore from 48 lakh weddings according to the study by the CAIT Research and Trade Development Society CRTDSThe research arm of Confederation of All India Traders CAIT said that the study in 75 cities revealed that spending per wedding increased despite a nearly unchanged wedding count from the previous yearCAIT Secretary General and Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal said that the rise reflects higher disposable incomes inflation in precious metals and rising consumer confidence after a recordbreaking festive seasonIn 2024 48 lakh weddings were held at a cost of Rs 590 lakh crore compared to 38 lakh weddings at Rs 474 lakh crore in 2023The study highlights a strong shift toward Swadeshi products with over 70 per cent of weddingrelated purchases now being Indianmade including apparel jewellery decor utensils and catering itemsCAITs Vocal for Local Weddings campaign has substantially reduced the presence of imported goods such as Chinese lighting artificial decor and gift accessories the report saidTraditional artisans jewellers and textile producers are witnessing a surge in orders symbolising the strength of Indias local manufacturing and craftsmanship it addedKhandelwal said that this wedding season could generate over 1 crore temporary and parttime jobs directly benefiting decorators caterers florists artists transporters and hospitality staffMSMEs in textiles jewellery handicrafts packaging and logistics will gain substantial seasonal momentum he addedThe report estimated that the wedding season will contribute approximately Rs 75000 crore to government tax revenuesCAITs sectoral estimate said that jewellery will be the largest contributor to economic activity during wedding season with a 15 per cent contribution while apparel and sarees contribute 10 per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-45-day-wedding-season-to-generate-rs-65-lakh-crore-create-1-crore-part-time-jobs-report-645625.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cipla-global-ceo-umang-vohra-to-step-down-achin-gupta-announces-as-successor-645627.html New Delhi Oct 30 Pharma major Cipla Ltd on Thursday announced a major leadership change with Umang Vohra Managing Director and Global Chief Executive Officer MD and GCEO set to step down at the end of his current term in March 2026 The companys board has approved the appointment of Achin Gupta currently the Global Chief Operating Officer as the next MD and GCEO effective April 1 2026 subject to shareholder approvalVohra who has been at the helm since 2016 has led Cipla through a period of strong global expansion and strategic transformation over the past decadeUmang Vohra Managing Director and Global Chief Executive Officer MD and GCEO expressed his intention not to seek reappointment upon completion of his current term on March 31 2026 the Company said in its exchange filingAs part of the Companys structured succession planning Achin Gupta Global Chief Operating Officer has been elevated and appointed as the MD and GCEO of the Company with effect from April 1 2026 for a term of 5 years it addedHowever Guptas appointment is subject to the approval of the shareholders who have also been appointed as an additional director of the Company with effect from April 1Additionally Meera Vanjari General Counsel Designate has been appointed as the global general counsel and senior management personnel of the CompanyShe will succeed AS Kumar who will complete his term on March 31Meanwhile the drugmakers net profit for the second quarter of this fiscal Q2FY26 rose 373 per cent yearonyear YoY to Rs 135117 crore as compared to Rs 130253 crore according to a regulatory filingThe companys revenue from operations witnessed a 763 per cent YoY surge to 758944 crore during the quarter under review compared to Rs 705102 crore in the same period a year ago IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cipla-global-ceo-umang-vohra-to-step-down-achin-gupta-announces-as-successor-645627.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 18:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-cm-asks-officials-to-intensify-relief-work-in-flood-hit-districts-645629.html Hyderabad Oct 30 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday directed authorities to intensify relief efforts in Warangal town and other parts of the state affected by floods following heavy rains under the impact of Cyclone Montha CM Revanth Reddy directed Chief Secretary and Director General of Police DGP to immediately send as many boats as necessary and to immediately move State Disaster Response Force SDRF to various floodhit districtsHe also asked officials to take steps to utilize Hyderabad Disaster Response Force and Asset Protection Agency HYDRAA personnel and flood relief equipment wherever necessaryThe Chief Minister who reviewed the situation through a videoconference from here asked authorities concerned to immediately evacuate people in flooded areas to safe places and to provide drinking water and food packets to families trapped on rooftops through dronesCM Revanth Reddy said he would conduct an aerial survey in Warangal and Husnabad areas on Friday He had to postponed his visit to Warangal due to bad weatherHe asked the ministersincharge of the cycloneaffected districts should be available at the field level They should visit the field level be available to the people and try to help themThe government is ready to help the people We are preparing all the necessary plans for this he saidThe Chief Minister said the Meteorological Department had warned that the cyclone will affect 16 districts and preventive measures were takenHe said that since this is the season of paddy harvesting unexpected disaster has caused concern to farmersHe asked officials to remain alert and directed the collectors to cancel leaves of all and go to the fieldThe Chief Minister wanted the electricity department to be on alert to ensure that there is no power disruption due to strong windsHe said traffic should be diverted at damaged roads bridges and lowlevel causeways and people should be made aware not to come on the roads unless necessaryHe asked officials to monitor situation roundtheclock and provide emergency medical services wherever necessaryThe ministers of the combined districts should alert the collectors from time to time in coordination with the officials District Collectors were directed to provide information to incharge ministers from time to timeIn the wake of the overflowing of streams the local people should be alerted to prevent accidents The inflow and outflow in irrigation projects should be monitored from time to time We should be vigilant at all times to prevent loss of life loss of livestock and loss of crops the Chief Minister added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-cm-asks-officials-to-intensify-relief-work-in-flood-hit-districts-645629.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 18:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-shri-row-sivankutty-lashes-out-at-cpi-leaders-for-crossing-limits-645631.html Thiruvananthapuram Oct 30 Kerala Education Minister V Sivankutty has launched a scathing attack on CPI leaders accusing them of disrespectful conduct and crossing limits in their criticism over the PM SHRI school project controversy The ministers outburst marks a fresh flareup within the ruling Left Democratic Front LDF even after both parties announced a truce on the issueSivankutty said CPI leader and State Food Minister GR Anil had publicly insulted him despite his courtesy visit to the partys state headquarters to brief CPI Secretary Binoy Viswam on why Kerala had initially agreed to join the Central governments PM SHRI schemeI had called Anil before visiting the office Yet he made belittling remarks to the media questioning even the principle of Cabinet responsibility Sivankutty saidAnil spoke as if someone insignificant had walked into his office That shows a lack of political culture he addedThe minister also targeted CPI national executive member Prakash Babu for allegedly using highly indecent language against CPIM Politburo member MA BabyOn what basis did he call Baby helpless He is our partys General Secretary Such words are unacceptable Sivankutty saidHe further criticised CPIaffiliated student bodies All India Students Federation and All India Youth Federation for overstepping all limits by burning his effigy and staging protests outside his home twiceThey even tried to portray me as communal Those who did that have no idea of my political history he remarked adding that Viswam had later agreed the protests were wrongSivankuttys criticism comes soon after Kerala decided to put the PM SHRI project on holdWhile the state has frozen further action the final call now rests with the Centre Reacting to the ministers remarks GR Anil said he was deeply surprisedWeve known each other since our student days Ive never used offensive words about anyone and Im sure Sivankutty knows that he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-shri-row-sivankutty-lashes-out-at-cpi-leaders-for-crossing-limits-645631.html Thu, 30 Oct 2025 18:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-address-maritime-leaders-conclave-in-mumbai-today-645413.html Mumbai Oct 29 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Mumbai on Wednesday to address the Maritime Leaders Conclave and chair the Global Maritime CEO Forum at India Maritime Week IMW 2025 The Global Maritime CEO Forum the flagship event of India Maritime Week 2025 will bring together CEOs of global maritime companies major investors policymakers innovators and international partners to deliberate on the future of the global maritime ecosystemThe Forum will serve as a key platform for dialogue on sustainable maritime growth resilient supply chains green shipping and inclusive blue economy strategiesThe Prime Ministers participation reflects his deep commitment to an ambitious futureoriented maritime transformation aligned with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047This longterm vision built on four strategic pillars portled development shipping and shipbuilding seamless logistics and maritime skillbuilding aims to position India among the worlds leading maritime powersIndia Maritime Week 2025 serves as the government of Indias premier global platform to translate this vision into action bringing together leading stakeholders across shipping ports shipbuilding cruise tourism and blue economy finance said the government releaseBeing organised from October 27 to 312025 under the theme Uniting Oceans One Maritime Vision IMW 2025 will showcase Indias strategic roadmap to emerge as a global maritime hub and a leader in the Blue EconomyIMW 2025 will draw participation from over 85 countries featuring more than 100000 delegates 500 exhibitors and 350 international speakersMeanwhile Union Home Minister Amit Shah in his inaugural address at the IMW 2025 on Monday said said that due to the reforms undertaken by the Modi government in the maritime sector India is emerging as a powerhouse in the maritime field globallyPrime Minister Narendra Modis maritime vision is based on these three pillars security stability and selfreliance he statedIndia is playing the role of a bridge between the IndoPacific and the Global South today based on its maritime position democratic stability and naval capability It is also accelerating all threedevelopment security and environment said the Home MinisterHe expressed Over 100 countries representatives are present in todays maritime ceremony This is proof that Indias maritime tradition remains a central point for global partnership and regional stability even todayIndias maritime strength and strategic location are evident from the fact that our coastline is over 11000 kilometres long There are 13 coastal states and Union Territories and our maritime business contributes significantly to the economy said the Home MinisterHe highlighted how this vast coastline supports trade logistics and the blue economy IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-address-maritime-leaders-conclave-in-mumbai-today-645413.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-impacts-bihar-imd-issues-heavy-rainfall-alert-for-several-districts-645425.html New Delhi Oct 29 The impact of Cyclone Montha is being increasingly felt across Bihar with the India Meteorological Department IMD issuing a heavy rainfall alert for several districts According to the latest IMD forecast districts including West Champaran Kaimur Banka Rohtas Gaya Sheikhpura and Nawada are expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall on Wednesday as the cyclones outer bands move northwardThe cyclonic system is also likely to cause a notable drop in temperatures and strong gusty winds across parts of southern and western Bihar over the next 24 hours The weather office has urged farmers to suspend harvesting and drying activities while residents have been advised to avoid open areas and weak structuresMeanwhile the IMD confirmed that the landfall process of the severe Cyclone Montha began early off the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam near Kakinada district The landfall process will continue for three to four hours said Dr M Mohapatra Director General of the IMD The storm moved northnorthwestwards at a speed of about 15 kmph over the past six hours before intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm around 530 amThe Andhra Pradesh government has taken largescale preparedness measures as Montha is expected to impact 403 mandals across 22 districtsAccording to the Chief Ministers Office CMO nearly 76000 people have been evacuated to relief camps and 219 medical camps have been set up To maintain emergency communication authorities have deployed 81 wireless towers and 21 highintensity lampsThe IMD has issued a cyclone warning for the Andhra Pradesh Yanam and South Odisha coasts forecasting wind speeds of 92117 kmph in central and north Andhra Pradesh followed by heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in coastal Andhra Pradesh Rayalaseema Telangana South Chhattisgarh and Odisha IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-impacts-bihar-imd-issues-heavy-rainfall-alert-for-several-districts-645425.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/fire-breaks-out-at-sbis-branch-in-kolkata-645429.html Kolkata Oct 29 A fire broke out on the second floor of the State Bank of Indias branch in the Dhakuria area of Kolkata on Wednesday Locals and bank security guards observed smoke emanating from the bank and immediately notified the Fire DepartmentAfter receiving information six fire engines rushed to the spot and brought the blaze under controlNo one was injured in the incidentThe Fire Department has started investigating the cause of the firePreliminary investigation revealed that a short circuit might have caused the fireIt is learnt that the fire broke out in the bank at 545 am Since it was not the banks opening time no employees or customers were in the bank As a result the Fire Department said that a major disaster has been averted However there are various financial documents in the bank The Fire Department is trying to ensure that those documents are not damaged too muchAn official of this bank branch said There was no damage to the customers documents The fire mainly damaged the furniture We received information about the fire at 615 am The security guards who are stationed at the ATM below informed usLocal Left councillor Madhuchanda Deb reached the bank after hearing the news of the fire She said I came here as soon as I got the information I learned that no one was injured The fire has been brought under controlCustomers also came after hearing news of the fire at the bank They came to know if their documents were damagedA customer told a section of media persons I came to know whether there was any damage to the locker The bank said that there was no damage to the locker There was a fire on the second floor of the bank I will come after 10 oclock to know if any documents were damagedFurther investigation was underway IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/fire-breaks-out-at-sbis-branch-in-kolkata-645429.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-stalin-to-launch-rs-1-020-crore-welfare-projects-in-tns-tenkasi-645432.html Chennai Oct 29 Chief Minister MK Stalin will undertake an extensive tour of Tamil Nadus Tenkasi district on Wednesday inaugurating a series of government welfare schemes and distributing assistance to thousands of beneficiaries The Chief Minister will begin his journey from Ariyanakipuram in Tirunelveli district in the morning and travel by road to Tenkasi At the district border in Alangulam he will be accorded a grand reception led by Tirunelveli West DMK incharge AvudaiyappanFrom there CM Stalin will proceed via Athiyuthu Surandai and Sambavarvadakarai to Lathur where he will hand over the 100000th house constructed under the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam housing scheme to beneficiary Sumathi marking a major milestone in the states flagship projectLater in the day the Chief Minister will participate in a largescale government function at Ananthapuram Grounds on the AyikudiTenkasi road During the ceremony he will distribute welfare assistance worth Rs 445 crore to around 24000 beneficiaries from various social welfare departmentsIn addition he will inaugurate completed public works valued at Rs 575 crore and lay foundation stones for several new projectsIn all the Chief Minister will launch development and welfare initiatives amounting to Rs 1020 crore for the Tenkasi district A massive pavilion and stage have been set up for the event with the venue decorated with banners highlighting various government schemesAfter addressing the gathering Chief Minister Stalin will visit Amar Seva Sangam in Ayikudi where he will interact with differentlyabled children and review the services offered by the institutionFollowing this he will proceed to the Courtallam Tourist House for lunch before departing for Madurai later in the afternoon Throughout Tenkasi town DMK cadres have erected party flags and welcome banners to greet himA tight security cover has been put in place under the supervision of Superintendent of Police Aravind with police units conducting parade rehearsals at the venue to ensure smooth proceedings IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-stalin-to-launch-rs-1-020-crore-welfare-projects-in-tns-tenkasi-645432.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-impact-heavy-rain-lashes-telangana-645441.html Hyderabad Oct 29 Heavy rain has been lashing parts of Telangana under the impact of severe cyclone Montha which crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast near Narsapur Heavy rain inundated lowlying areas and disrupted vehicular transport in some areasAuthorities in Khammam Warangal Mahabubabad Suryapet and some other districts have declared a holiday for educational institutionsOverflowing rivulets streams and water bodies flooded the roads cutting off villages in Nagarkurnool district which shares a border with Andhra PradeshRainwater entered an electricity substation at Pulicherla village in Nalgonda district disrupting electricity supply to some villages in Peddapur mandal since Tuesday nightHeavy rain in the Sultanabad mandal of Peddapalli district damaged paddy in the agriculture marketAccording to Telangana Development Planning Society Uppununthala in Nagarkurnool district received the highest rainfall of 208 cm during the last 24 hours Amrabad in the same district recorded 197 cm of rainfallTheldevarapally in Nalgonda district recorded 185 cm rainfall followed by 183 cm in Veltur 178 cm in Ainole 1628 cm in Padra 1590 cm in Achampet all in Nagarkurnool district and 1515 cm in Yerraram in Nalgonda districtAbout 30 areas received rainfall of more than 10 cmHyderabad has received moderate to heavy rain since Tuesday night Some areas in the core city and the outskirts received moderate rainfall since Wednesday morningWater stagnation on roads in and around Hyderabad caused hardships to motorists in the morning rush hourAccording to the India Meteorological Department IMD light to moderate rain or thundershowers at times intense spells at a few places accompanied by gusty winds 3040 kmph are very likely to occur in Hyderabad MistHazy conditions are very likely to prevail during morningnight hoursThe IMD has issued an orange alert for Bhadradri Kothagudem Hanamkoonda Hyderabad Jangaon Jogulamaba Gadwal Khammam Medchal Malkajgiri Mahabubabad Mahabubnagar Nagarkurnool Nalgonda Narayanpet Rangareddy Suryapet Vikarabad Wanaparthy Warangal and Yadadri Bhuvanagiri districts IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-impact-heavy-rain-lashes-telangana-645441.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/iit-kanpur-director-explains-why-cloud-seeding-didnt-cause-rain-in-delhi-another-attempt-planned-today-645445.html New Delhi Oct 29 The muchanticipated attempt to induce artificial rain through cloud seeding over parts of Delhi turned out to be not completely successful According to IIT Kanpur Director Manindra Agrawal the failure was largely due to insufficient moisture in the clouds emphasising that cloud seeding is not a magic bullet for Delhis pollution crisis but rather an emergency lastresort measure He also stated that the team plans to make fresh attempts on Wednesday Speaking exclusively to NDTV on Tuesday Agrawal whose institute is collaborating with the Delhi government for this experimental project said that the team plans to make fresh attempts on Wednesday expressing hope for improved resultsThere hasnt been any rain so far So in that sense it was not completely successful Unfortunately the clouds present today did not have very high moisture content I am told it was only around 1520 per cent The possibility of inducing rain with such low moisture levels is not very high But this trial has given more confidence to our team to continue conducting them Agrawal told NDTVThe IIT Kanpurled team used a mixture comprising 20 per cent silver iodide and the rest made up of rock salt and common salt to seed the clouds On Tuesday 14 flares were fired in totalThere were conflicting reports about the likelihood of rain today Some forecasts predicted rain while others did not But our own observation was that the cloud cover had very low moisture content and this could well be true for the entire region we flew over So we do not expect rain today Agrawal addedTwo additional flights he said are scheduled for Wednesday and the operations will continue whenever suitable cloud cover is availableWhen asked whether cloud seeding could serve as a longterm remedy for Delhis persistent air pollution Agrawal was clear in his responseIt is an SOS solution something to attempt only in a crisis when pollution levels are extremely high It is not a permanent solution The permanent solution of course is to control the sources of pollution Ideally we should reach a stage where theres no need for cloud seeding because pollution itself has been eliminated Until then this is one of the tools available to provide temporary relief he saidAgrawal acknowledged that the current cost of the operations is high because the flights are being conducted from Uttar Pradesh However he added that these costs could be reduced substantially in future attemptsAny effort that leads to even a partial reduction in pollution benefits everyone Even if rain comes after a few days it can still provide some relief he addedAccording to a preliminary report by the Delhi government the cloud seeding experiment did help reduce particulate matter levels in some of the targeted areas Two minor precipitation events were recorded 01 mm of rain in Noida and 02 mm in Greater Noida around 4 pm on TuesdayBefore seeding the PM 25 levels were recorded at 221 Mayur Vihar 230 Karol Bagh and 229 Burari After seeding they dropped to 207 206 and 203 respectivelySimilarly PM 10 levels fell from 207 206 and 209 to 177 163 and 177 in the same areasDelhis Forest and Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa had confirmed that two cloud seeding attempts were made on Tuesday one in the morning and another in the evening with assistance from IIT KanpurToday one attempt was made in the morning and another in the evening The results are still being collated Sirsa told IANS emphasising that the Delhi government is committed to exploring scientific solutions to combat the citys toxic airThe experiment comes at a time when Delhis air quality has sharply deteriorated in the days following Diwali celebrations The Air Quality Index AQI across Delhi and the National Capital Region NCR has remained in the poor to very poor category with smog blanketing large parts of the cityCloud seeding involves dispersing substances like silver iodide nanoparticles iodized salt and dry ice into the atmosphere to stimulate cloud condensation and trigger rainfall It is often used in regions suffering from water scarcity or to reduce hail and fogOn Tuesday IIT Kanpurs aircraft seeded a corridor approximately 25 nautical miles 463 km long and four nautical miles 74 km wide covering areas between Khekra and Burari coloniesThe first flight released six flares at an altitude of around 4000 feet while the second which took off at 355 pm deployed eight flares at a slightly higher altitude of 5000 feetDespite the lack of rainfall experts consider the trial a significant technical success marking one of Indias most advanced urban cloud seeding operations to date IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/iit-kanpur-director-explains-why-cloud-seeding-didnt-cause-rain-in-delhi-another-attempt-planned-today-645445.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/noida-authority-prepares-special-plan-for-street-dogs-following-sc-order-645447.html Noida Oct 29 In line with the Supreme Courts landmark directive on the protection and management of street dogs the Noida Authority has prepared a comprehensive plan to ensure their welfare and public safety According to Mahendra Prasad Officer on Special Duty OSD of the Noida Authority a stateoftheart street dog shelter has been established in Sector 94 which currently houses around 1000 stray dogs The facility provides medical treatment vaccination and sterilisation services Dogs suffering from rabies are also receiving specialised care at the centrePrasad said a team of trained veterinarians and paraveterinary staff has been deployed at the shelter to monitor the dogs health and wellbeingAround 50 dogs are being sterilised every day helping control the growing street dog population in Noida he addedIn collaboration with two NGOs the Noida Authority has also launched a citywide rabies vaccination drive aimed at ensuring the safety of both residents and animals The campaign is vaccinating stray dogs across all sectors of the cityThe authority is now planning to set up another modern dog shelter with the capacity to accommodate an additional 1000 dogs This upcoming facility will offer proper food water medical care and housing along with the presence of a fulltime veterinarian and support staffTo further promote humane management of street dogs the authority is working on establishing around 1500 dog feeding centres across Noida These centres will provide regular food and water to stray dogs reducing aggression and preventing them from wandering in search of sustenanceFor addressing complaints and emergencies related to street dogs the Noida Authority has also issued a tollfree helpline number operational round the clock Another 24hour helpline is expected to be launched soonDescribing the initiative as a step towards compassion and coexistence Prasad said Our aim is to ensure that both humans and animals in Noida live in a safe healthy and balanced environment IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/noida-authority-prepares-special-plan-for-street-dogs-following-sc-order-645447.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-bajrang-dal-files-police-complaint-over-wi-fi-name-pakistan-zindabad-645448.html Bengaluru Oct 29 Bajrang Dal has filed a police complaint regarding a WiFi username Pakistan Zindabad at the Jigani Police Station on the outskirts of Bengaluru on Wednesday The police have registered a NonCognisable Report NCR in this regard and initiated an investigationAccording to the police the incident was reported from Kallubalu village near Jigani on the outskirts of BengaluruThe complaint states that while checking available WiFi networks to access the internet one of the visible WiFi usernames was found to be Pakistan ZindabadBajrang Dal activists have alleged that antinational elements may be operating in the area The complainant stated that when WiFi options are searched on a mobile device the IDs of nearby users are displayed and what was shocking was the appearance of the ID named Pakistan ZindabadThe complaint further alleged that someone using such a name indicates the possible presence of a person with extremist intentions in the vicinity raising serious concerns about their activitiesThe Jigani Police have registered an NCR and are investigating the matterEarlier in February 2024 an incident of Pakistan Zindabad slogans in the premises of Vidhana Soudha being raised by supporters of Congress leader Syed Nasir Hussain after his Rajya Sabha election victory had sparked a major controversyThe BJP had demanded an investigation by the National Investigation Agency NIA The situation had escalated to the point where members of the Congress and the BJP nearly came to blows in the Legislative CouncilSubsequently on March 4 2024 the Vidhana Soudha Police arrested three people for allegedly raising Pakistan Zindabad slogans in the corridors of Vidhana Soudha during the victory celebrations of Rajya Sabha member Syed Nasir HussainThe arrests were made based on a Forensic Science Laboratory FSL report circumstantial evidence and witness statements gathered at the event The accused were identified as Iltaz from Delhi Munawar from RT Nagar in Bengaluru and Mohammed Shafi Nashipudi from Byadagi in Haveri district Karnataka IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-bajrang-dal-files-police-complaint-over-wi-fi-name-pakistan-zindabad-645448.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/right-time-to-invest-in-indias-maritime-sector-amid-global-tensions-pm-modi-645451.html Mumbai Oct 29 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the maritime sector is driving Indias growth asserting that over the last decade it has transformed significantly boosting trade and port infrastructurenbspThe Prime Minister added that amid global tensions trade disruptions and shifting supply chains India stands as a symbol of strategic autonomy peace and inclusive growthnbspWhen the global seas are rough the world looks for a steady lighthouse India is well poised to play that role with strength and stability he saidHe also appealed to the investors to invest in Indias maritime sector saying that this is the right and opportune time for the samenbspnbspThis is the right time to work and expand in Indias shipping sector The inauguration of several projects related to the Shipping sector has taken place here MoUs worth crores of rupees related to the Shipping sector have also been issued said PM Modi while addressing the Global Maritime CEO Forum the flagship event of India Maritime Week IMW 2025nbspThe Prime Minister added that this shows how much faith the world has in Indias maritime capabilitiesnbspYour presence in this event is a symbol of our common commitment said PM ModinbspHe further said that in this era of the 21st century Indias maritime sector is moving forward with great speed and energynbspnbspThe year 2025 has been a very important year for Indias maritime sector Today Indias ports are counted among the most efficient in the developing world In many aspects they are performing even better than those in the developed world We have replaced over a centuryold colonial shipping laws with modern futuristic laws suited for the 21st century he addednbspHe noted that the new laws empower State Maritime Boards emphasise Safety and Sustainability and expand Digitalisation in Port ManagementnbspPM Modi said that Indias maritime sector is advancing with great speed and energynbspThe year 2025 has been a landmark year for Bharats maritime sector marked by several significant achievements he saidnbspThe Prime Minister added that Indias first deepwater international transhipment hub Vizhinjam Port became operational this yearnbspAdding to the nations pride the worlds largest container vessel recently docked at the port showcasing its global capability During the fiscal year 20242025 Indias major ports achieved a recordbreaking cargo throughput setting new benchmarks in efficiency he saidnbspnbspPM Modi added that Kandla Port has made history by launching the nations first megawattscale indigenous green hydrogen facilityWe have repealed Colonial Shipping Laws over 100 years old and implemented Modern and Futuristic Laws of the 21st century said the Prime MinisternbspPM Modi pointed out that India is accelerating efforts to reach new heights in shipbuilding adding that the country has now granted large ships the status of infrastructure assetsnbspnbspHe said that significant strides have been made to drive nextgeneration reforms in the maritime sectornbspIndia is making remarkable strides in the shipping industry particularly in the development of human resources Over the past decade the number of Indian seafarers has grown significantly increasing from 125 lakh to over 3 lakh Today India ranks among the top three countries in the world in terms of the total number of seafarers he remarkedPM Modi said that under the Maritime India Vision over 150 initiatives have been launched resulting in significant improvements across the maritime sectornbspThe capacity of Indias major ports has doubled and turnaround times have been significantly reduced he saidnbspPM Modi said that additionally cruise tourism has gained substantial momentum adding that inland waterways have experienced remarkable growth with cargo movement increasing by more than 700 per centnbspThe number of operational waterways has expanded from just three to an impressive 32 Furthermore the net annual surplus of our ports has seen a ninefold increase over the past decade he said https://dailyworld.in/national/right-time-to-invest-in-indias-maritime-sector-amid-global-tensions-pm-modi-645451.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 19:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-suggests-legislature-amend-definition-of-dependent-under-employees-compensation-act-1923-645324.html New Delhi Oct 29 IANS The Supreme Court has suggested that the legislature reconsider the outdated provisions of the Employees Compensation Act 1923 emphasizing the need to modernize centuryold labour lawsnbspA Bench of Justices Rajesh Bindal and Manmohan observed that certain clauses defining dependents in the 1923 Act have lost their relevance in the present sociolegal contextnbspIt pointed out the impracticality of the current wording in Section 21diiid of the Act which defines a dependent as a minor brother or an unmarried sister or a widowed sister if a minornbspThe Employees Compensation Act was enacted in the year 1923 The definition of word dependentin Section 21diiid means a minor brother or an unmarried sister or a widowed sister if a minor In the present time no one will normally find a widowed sister who is a minor especially after enactment of the Hindu Marriage Act 1955 observed the Justice Bindalled BenchTo address this issue the Supreme Court directed that a copy of the order be forwarded to the Ministry of Law and Justice for further actionnbspIn our view the matter needs to be considered by the Law Commission of India for suitable amendment of the aforesaid provision or any other in the 1923 Act the order statednbspA copy of the order be sent to the Secretary Ministry of Law and Justice who may further refer the same to the Chairperson Law Commission of India it addednbspThe Special Leave Petition SLP stemmed from a Karnataka High Court decision which upheld compensation to two widowed sisters of a deceased employee recognizing them as his dependents under the ActThe insurance company had challenged the award arguing that the statute only recognizes a widowed sister if a minor as a dependent and two widowed sisters were not minors at the time of his demisenbspAfter hearing arguments from both sides the apex court said Keeping in view the amount involved in the present appeal we do not wish to interfere with the impugned judgment The appeal is accordingly dismissed however leaving the question of law openThe top court registry was directed to inform the respondents including two widowed sisters about the dismissal of the appeal to enable withdrawal of the compensation amount deposited in the Karnataka High CourtnbspIn case any of the aforesaid respondents has expired hisher legal heirs are permitted to withdraw the amount along with interest accrued thereon the Justice Bindalled Bench clarifiednbspIn an earlier order passed on August 24 2023 the Supreme Court had sought assistance from the Union government to interpret the term dependent noting then that the deceased worker was survived by two widowed sisters who though not minors were financially dependent on him https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-suggests-legislature-amend-definition-of-dependent-under-employees-compensation-act-1923-645324.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-polls-a-chance-to-choose-development-over-mafia-says-up-cm--645325.html Patna Oct 29 IANS Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday launched a blistering attack on the Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD accusing it of promoting jungle raj and criminal elements and appealed to the people to vote for developmentnbspAddressing an election rally in Raghunathpur Siwan CM Yogi said the upcoming Bihar Assembly election is a battle between development and those responsible for Bihars jungle rajnbspThis election is a fight against those who created an identity crisis for Biharis before 2005 Under the doubleengine government led by Nitish Kumar Bihar has regained its respect across the country Today Biharis are respected wherever they go because of the NDAs governance he saidThe Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister accused the RJD of encouraging criminal elements by giving them tickets in the ongoing electionnbspWithout taking names he referred to former RJD MP Mohammad Shahabuddin and his son Osama Shahab who is contesting from Raghunathpur on an RJD ticketnbspPeople of Siwan know very well about an acid attack case that took place during the RJD government executed by a wellknown Bahubali leader Today RJD has given a ticket to his son CM Yogi saidnbspDrawing parallels between the RJD in Bihar and the Samajwadi Party SP in Uttar Pradesh he said both parties are relatives in promoting anarchyRJD created anarchism in Bihar SP did the same in Uttar Pradesh However the bulldozer in UP acted against criminals supported by SP leaders Only the doubleengine government of the NDA can control such elements he assertednbspTurning his attention to the Ram Temple issue he said that leaders of the opposition had once questioned the feasibility of the temples construction but it was the NDA government that fulfilled the longstanding promisenbspThe Ram Temple in Ayodhya has become a reality Lord Ram who stayed in a hut for over 550 years now resides in a grand temple built under the NDA Lalu Prasad Yadav had committed the sin of stopping the Ram Rath Yatra but people like him couldnt stop us from building the temple Yogi saidHe further announced that a grand temple of Goddess Sita is being built in Sitamarhi and a RamJanaki corridor worth Rs 6100 crore will be built connecting Ayodhya and SitamarhinbspThese people offer chadar on the mazar of Babar and Aurangzeb while we work for Sanatan Dharma he addednbspCM Yogi also took a dig at the RJDs governance slogan saying Before 2005 their slogan was Sabka Saath par Apne Pariwar ka Vikas With all but development for their own family Our slogan is Sabka Saath Sabka VikasHe appealed to the people of Siwan to prevent the return of mafia elements and support NDA candidates Vikas Kumar Singh Raghunathpur and Vishnudev Paswan BaraulinbspCM Yogi also mentioned Union Home Minister Amit Shahs commitment to eliminating Naxalism and Maoism from India by 2026nbspWe dont need CPIML we need LJPRV We want a crimefree Bihar where business can grow industrialists invest and our mothers and sisters can live without fear he said https://dailyworld.in/national/bihar-polls-a-chance-to-choose-development-over-mafia-says-up-cm--645325.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/president-murmu-takes-sortie-in-rafale-fighter-jet-in-haryanas-ambala-645326.html Ambala Oct 29 IANS President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday took a sortie in a Rafale fighter jet which played a crucial role in Operation Sindoor launched by India in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack at the Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana her second flight in an Indian Air Force IAF combat aircraftnbspAir Chief Marshal AP Singh was among others present at the Air Force Station Before taking the sortie President Murmu inspected the guard of honour at the air basenbspThe President waved as she took off for the sortie Dressed up in a Indian Air Force pilots uniform and carrying a helmet ahead of the sortie her flight marks a symbolic show of confidence in the Indian Air Forces operational readiness and growing air power capabilitiesnbspManufactured by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation and formally inducted into the Indian Air Force in September 2020 in Ambala Rafale jets played a key role in Operation SindoorOn April 8 2023 President Murmu the supreme commander of the Indian armed forces became the third President and second woman head of state to take a sortie in a Sukhoi30 MKI fighter aircraft at the Tezpur Air Force Station in AssamnbspFormer Presidents APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil had undertaken sorties in Sukhoi30 MKI fighter aircraft at the Air Force Station Lohegaon near Pune on June 8 2006 and November 25 2009 respectivelynbspManufactured by French aerospace major Dassault Aviation Rafale fighter aircraft were formally inducted into the Indian Air Force in September 2020 at the Air Force Station AmbalanbspThe first five Rafale aircraft which had arrived from France on July 27 2020 were inducted in 17 Squadron the Golden Arrows The Rafale was the first imported fighter jet to be inducted into the Indian Air Force in 22 years after the Russian Sukhoi30 fighters the first of which entered the Indian Air Forces service in June 1997 https://dailyworld.in/national/president-murmu-takes-sortie-in-rafale-fighter-jet-in-haryanas-ambala-645326.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/denying-appointment-to-disabled-candidate-for-no-vacancy-defeats-rpwd-act-delhi-hc-645327.html New Delhi Oct 29 IANS The Delhi High Court has ruled that rejecting the candidature of a physically disabled person for compassionate appointment on the ground of no vacancy runs contrary to the mandate of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities RPwD Act 2016nbspnbspA bench of Justices Madhu Jain and Navin Chawla dismissed a plea filed by the Commissioner of Police and others against an order of the Central Administrative Tribunal CAT that had directed reconsideration of a disabled candidates case for compassionate appointment in the Delhi PolicenbspThe respondent Amit Kumar who is 75 per cent physically disabled and belongs to a Scheduled Caste community had sought a compassionate appointment after his father a MultiTasking Staff MTS employee died while in service in 2013nbspnbspHis application was rejected by the Delhi Police citing a lack of vacancies for physically challenged candidates in the MTS cadrenbspIn its decision the Delhi High Court came down heavily on the authorities and observed that the repeated rejections on the same ground defeat the very purpose of the compassionate appointment scheme which is meant to provide immediate succour to the bereaved familynbspThe Justice Jainheaded bench said Rejection of his candidature on the sole ground that there was no vacancy for physically disabled persons reflects a lack of awareness and sensitivity towards the principles of reasonable accommodation and inclusionnbspnbspIt added that such an action cannot withstand the test of fairness and is antithetical to the principles of justice equity and good conscience that animate our constitutional frameworknbspnbspThe Delhi High Court said that the decision defeats the provisions of the RPwD Act noting that the Act ensures equality dignity and nondiscrimination for persons with disabilities and mandates the government to provide reasonable accommodation in employmentnbspReferring to Supreme Court judgements the bench observed that the RPwD Act has acquired the status of a super statute containing the ingredients of a quasiconstitutional law It ruled that reasonable accommodation is not a discretionary measure but a fundamental right integral to achieving substantive equality for persons with disabilities forming part of the right to dignity as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of IndianbspnbspThe Delhi High Court found that while the Delhi Polices Standing Orders provided age relaxation for physically handicapped dependents the mandate of the RPwD Act cannot be satisfied merely by giving this relaxation in agenbspThe reasonable accommodation mentioned therein has to extend to reservation and special consideration of such individuals especially in matters of compassionate appointment it saidnbspHolding that the Delhi Polices approach in compassionate appointment was arbitrary and devoid of the compassion that the law mandates in such cases the Justice Jainheaded bench directed the Screening Committee to reconsider Amit Kumars case afresh and issue necessary orders within eight weeksnbspThe Screening Committee of the petitioners Delhi Police is directed to reconsider the case of the respondent for compassionate appointment Necessary orders in this regard shall be issued by the petitioners within a period of 8 weeks it orderednbsp https://dailyworld.in/national/denying-appointment-to-disabled-candidate-for-no-vacancy-defeats-rpwd-act-delhi-hc-645327.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-wreaks-havoc-in-coastal-andhra-2-killed-645328.html Amaravati Oct 29 IANS Severe cyclone Montha which crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast in the early hours of Wednesday wreaked havoc killing two people damaging houses crops and electricity towers and disrupting vehicular trafficnbspStrong winds uprooted trees and electricity poles while heavy rains resulted in the lakes and streams overflowingnbspVillages and residential areas in some towns in coastal districts were inundated Roads were also flooded in a few areas disrupting vehicular trafficnbspTeams of the NDRF and the SDRF were engaged in the work to remove fallen trees and poles Efforts were also being made to restore the electricity supply in the affected areasAccording to the India Meteorological Department IMD the severe cyclone crossed the coast near Narsapur between Machilipatnam and Kakinada It weakened into a cyclone and later into a deep depression The system is likely to move northnorthwestwards across Andhra Pradesh and adjoining Telangana and south Chhattisgarh and weaken into a depression during the next six hoursnbspThe cyclone caused extensive damage to crops in the coastal districts Agriculture Minister K Atchenaidu said that in Konaseema district alone paddy crops over 20000 acres were damagednbspVijayawada was receiving heavy rains under the impact of the cyclone inundating lowlying areas Rainwater flooded some roads in the city disrupting traffic Water also entered houses in some areas of the cityIn the Bapatla district police rescued a group of 20 people trapped in flood waters at a shrinenbspA part of National Highway 16 KolkataChennai was submerged near Timmapuram in Palnadu district bringing the vehicular traffic to a haltnbspAuthorities closed the Srisailam ghat road due to landslides Police stopped the vehicles heading to Srisailam at Pedda Dornala in Prakasam district Authorities deployed JCBs to clear the roadnbspnbspAs flood water entered two tunnels of the Veligonda project in Prakasam district authorities safely evacuated 200 employees who were working in the tunnelsnbspIn Nandyal district the Kundu River the Maddileru and Chama Kaluva streams were overflowing inundating lowlying areas Water was flowing over the bridge at Boyarevula bringing vehicular traffic to a haltnbspMeanwhile Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu visited cycloneaffected Udelarevu in Konaseema district He will discuss with officials and public representatives about the damage caused by the cyclonenbspHe also made an aerial survey of the areas affected by the cyclonenbspThe Chief Minister earlier held a teleconference with district collectors officials and ministers and made suggestions about measures to be taken in floodaffected areasnbspHe claimed that they could mitigate damage by dealing effectively with the cyclone during the four to five daysnbspMeanwhile the government has decided to provide financial assistance of Rs 1000 each to those who had taken shelter in relief camps A family with more than three members will be provided with maximum assistance of Rs 3000Officials said the money would be handed over to them while returning to their homesnbspAbout 75000 people were shifted to relief camps in the affected districtsnbspEarlier the government issued an order giving permission to the district Collectors of affected districts for the distribution of essential commodities free of cost to the affected families who were put in relief camps and fishermen whose livelihoods were affectednbspThe families will be given 25 kg of rice 50 kg for weavers and fishermen one kg of red gram dal one litre of palm oil one kg of onions one kg of potatoes and one kg of sugar https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-wreaks-havoc-in-coastal-andhra-2-killed-645328.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sensex-nifty-end-higher-on-india-us-trade-deal-hopes-and-positive-global-cues-645329.html Mumbai Oct 29 IANS Indian stock markets closed higher on Wednesday supported by strong global cues and optimism ahead of the US Federal Reserves policy decisionnbspnbspInvestor sentiment also improved following reports that the US President may soon finalise a trade deal with IndianbspThe Sensex gained 36897 points or 044 per cent to end the day at 8497713 The Nifty rose 1177 points or 045 per cent to close at 260539nbspThe Nifty continues to encounter stiff resistance near the 2605026100 zone while support remains firm around 2590025660 As long as the index holds above 25800 the broader trend stays firmly bullish experts saidnbspA decisive close above 26100 could open the door for an extended rally toward 2625026400 whereas a dip below 25900 may trigger mild profit booking at higher levels experts statedIn the Sensex pack NTPC PowerGrid Adani Ports HCL Tech and Tata Steel were the top performersnbspOn the other hand Bharat Electronics Eternal Mahindra ampamp Mahindra Maruti Suzuki and Bajaj Finance were among the major losersnbspBroader market indices also traded in the green The NSE Midcap 100 index climbed 064 per cent while the Nifty Smallcap 100 index gained 043 per centnbspAmong sectoral indices Nifty Oil ampamp Gas led the gains with a rise of 212 per cent Energy Metal Media Bank Financial Services IT Pharma FMCG and Consumer Durables indices also ended higher However Nifty Auto was the only sector to close in the redMarket participants are now closely watching the outcome of the US Federal Reserves policy meeting and further developments on the potential IndiaUS trade agreement which could influence market direction in the coming sessionsnbspOptimism over potential progress in IndiaUS trade talks further lifted sentiment experts addednbspThe upcoming Fed decision remains a key event for global markets although a 25bps rate cut is widely anticipated investors will closely track its commentary for further rate cuts which will guide the future market trajectory they mentioned https://dailyworld.in/national/sensex-nifty-end-higher-on-india-us-trade-deal-hopes-and-positive-global-cues-645329.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/23rds-majority-to-nda-in-bihar-will-be-fitting-tribute-to-nehru-on-his-birthday-on-nov-14-rajnath--645330.html DarbhangaPatna Oct 29 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said a twothirds majority for the NDA in the 243member Bihar assembly will be a fitting tribute to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on his birthday on November 14 the day poll results will be announcednbspBihar does not need goonda raj he claimed while alluding to the RJDs rule in the statenbspBihar CM Nitish Kumar has largely been successful in undoing damage inflicted by RJDs jungle raj Singh said during a poll rally at Barh in Patna districtnbspnbspOpposition parties want to secure votes of Bangladeshi infiltrators he claimednbspHe slammed the Congress and the RJD for attacking the Election Commission and wondered how will democracy run if constitutional bodies are defamednbspAlleging that the RJD has defamed Bihar across the world the defence minister said the issue of the assembly polls in the state was clear whether it will be taken back to the days of jungle raj or remain on the path of developmentAddressing an election rally in Darbhanga district earlier in the day Singh slammed the RJD alleging that it made an unrealistic promise of providing a government job to each household in the statenbspWe will release our manifesto on Thursday and implement every single word in it he saidnbspSingh said that no corruption allegations can be levelled against CM Nitish Kumar who governed the state for 20 years while it was a matter of grief that the entire family of a former chief minister is accused of irregularitiesAccusing the opposition in the state of making false promises of undoing amendments to the Waqf Act he said they cannot as the law was passed in ParliamentnbspSingh said his party the BJP does not indulge in politics of caste and religion asserting that we do fair and clean politicsnbspHe said Rs 15 lakh crore was allocated for the allround development of the state in the last 11 years under the Narendra Modi governmentnbspIt was PM Modi not Rahul Gandhi who gave constitutional status to the OBC commission he saidAgencies https://dailyworld.in/national/23rds-majority-to-nda-in-bihar-will-be-fitting-tribute-to-nehru-on-his-birthday-on-nov-14-rajnath--645330.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tejashwi-carries-a-mixed-bag-of-lalu-legacy-where-jungle-raaj-is-among-burdens-645332.html New Delhi Oct 29 IANS When his estranged elder sibling Tej Pratap Yadav said that Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD leader Tejashwi was living in their father Lalu Prasads shadow the younger brother could have nodded in agreement since his aspiration to be Bihars next Chief Minister lay through that pathnbspnbspEarly this year the Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD national executive committee passed a resolution empowering Tejaswi to levels that equalled that of the founder and party President Lalu It was thus clear who among the latters nine children would carry the legacy forwardFour of LaluRabris children exhibited interests in politics with Misha Bharti standing by Tejashwi in the current family feud seemingly content as a Lok Sabha member while the younger Rohini Acharya has extended support to Tej PratapRohini who unsuccessfully contested as an RJD candidate from Bihars Saran Lok Sabha constituency in 2024 makes no secret of her disappointment over their fathers endorsement of Tejashwi She also makes it known that it was she who donated a kidney to Lalu earlierTejashwis elevation in RJD was therefore through a family feud that is standing out more vividly with the elections The resilience and determination that he has shown in his fights within the family and party reflected outside in seatsharing negotiations Despite his age and experience being less than most of his allies he handled them with elan refusing to give in much to their demandsHe lacks the rustic sense of humour of his father but that did not come in the way of making the partners smile even if reluctantly The exercise bore fruit in 2020 when the Mahagathbandhan fell short of a majority by only a dozen seats and the RJD emerged as the single largest party winning 75 of Bihars 243 Assembly constituencies He has thus lived by Lalus legacy of using alliance strength when facing a stronger opponentIn 1999 when Sonia Gandhi was poised to stake a claim to form the government but Mulayam Singh Yadav refused to support Lalu despite being a political rival at times was more amenable to working with the Congress Though he had only seven seats in the Lok Sabha the Bihar strongman played a role in trying to bridge gaps between regional leaders and GandhiIn the 2004 Lok Sabha elections when the RJD won 24 Lok Sabha seats giving Lalu substantial influence in forming the new government he had famously said I will play the role of queenmaker referring to his support for the Sonialed CongressIn the runup to the 2025 polls Tejashwi did upset a few parties including the All India MajlisEIttehadul Muslimeen AIMIM and national ally Jharkhand Mukti Morcha JMM but he did not want RJD to either lose vote share or vote bank accommodating more partners He calculated that getting AIMIM onboard could paint a Muslim overreach and could affect Yadav votes Bihars caste census report of 2022 shows the former at around 1770 per cent and the latter at about 143 per cent He is rather intending to somehow break into the Backward OBC and the Extremely Backward Class EBC votes who together constitute some 631 per cent of Bihars populationThe RJD which initially enjoyed their support witnessed an erosion in OBC votes being viewed as leaning further towards MuslimYadav support while EBC votes shifted for Bihars ruling National Democratic Alliance NDA led by Nitish Kumars Janata Dal United He is thus trying to live Lalus legacy of using Mandal over KamandalLalus rise to prominence was rooted in the implementation and political mobilisation around the Mandal Commissions recommendations He used it as a tool against socalled Kamandal politics said to be in favour of majoritarian uppercastecentred Hindutva projects This consolidation also helped Lalu decimate the rising Communist forces who stuck to class struggle over the states caste equationsHowever Tejashwi also carries the legacy of jungle raaj under the LaluRabri regime that his critics have repeatedly raised with a slogan of good governance from Nitish Kumar That is among the aspects of his fathers shadow that the young Yadav is trying hard to step out of https://dailyworld.in/national/tejashwi-carries-a-mixed-bag-of-lalu-legacy-where-jungle-raaj-is-among-burdens-645332.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-monthas-landfall-continues-near-kakinada--645336.html Amaravati Oct 28 The landfall by severe cyclonic storm Montha in the Bay of Bengal continued near Kakinada on Tuesday night triggering heavy rains and strong winds in the region The cyclone started making landfall around 8 pm at Antarvedipalli between Kakinada and MachilipatnamThe India Meteorological Department IMD said that land landfall process may continue for another two hoursThe maximum wind speed at the time of landfall is likely to be 90110 km per hourThere were reports of trees getting uprooted and disruption in the electricity supply in some towns and villages in the coastal districtsChief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu remained at the Real Time Governance centre on Tuesday night to review the situationHe directed officials to remain alert throughout the night to prevent loss of life and propertyThe Chief Minister held a teleconference with district collectors to review the current status of the cyclone He instructed ministers to visit the cycloneaffected areas interact with the people and immediately implement relief measures to instil confidence among themHe emphasised that power supply should be restored promptly after the cyclone by repairing damaged electric poles and substations The CM further stated that he has requested the Centre to send central teams to assess the overall cyclone damage including crop lossesThe IMD said that under the impact of Montha heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in Coastal Andhra Pradesh Rayalaseema Telangana South Chhattisgarh and OdishaThe IMD appealed to people to stay indoors to stay safe and follow official updatesThe impact of the cyclone is likely to be severe in Kakinada Krishna Eluru East Godavari West Godavari Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema and Chinturu and Rampachodavaram divisions of Alluri Sitarama Raju districtThe state government ordered the suspension of vehicle movement in these seven districts from 830 pm on Tuesday to 6 am on WednesdayDistrict Collectors and Superintendents of Police were instructed to halt traffic on all types of roads including national highways passing through these districts However anexemption has been granted only for emergency medical servicesThe government has advised all residents in these districts to stay indoors not to venture outside and to remain vigilantThe cyclone is likely to affect 403 mandals in 22 districts across the state The officials have set up 488 control rooms in mandals to deal with the emergency situationThe government has set up a total of 1204 relief camps and 75802 people have been evacuated to these campsThe IMD has issued a red alert for the coastal districts which also face the threat of flash floodsSrikakulam Vizianagaram Visakhapatnam Anakapalle Nellore Konaseema and Kakinada districts have been receiving heavy rains with strong windsHigh tidal waves have damaged the UppadaKakinada beach road Authorities have closed the road for trafficFishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea for five days All activities on the coast have been suspended Authorities have closed the beaches for touristsMeanwhile Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw posted on X that he spoke to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu along with concerned Railway officials Decisions taken for immediate restoration work post landfall of the cyclone he saidResponding to this Chief Minister Naidu thanked the Union minister for his concern and support on Cyclone Montha The Union and State Governments stand prepared together to mitigate the impact of the cyclone prioritising the safety of our people posted Naidu IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-monthas-landfall-continues-near-kakinada--645336.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-takes-time-out-of-busy-schedule-to-meet-his-mother-in-tiruppur-645340.html New Delhi Oct 29 In a heartfelt moment that drew emotional responses from supporters and wellwishers Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Tuesday shared that he was blessed to receive the blessings of his mother during his visit to Tiruppur in Tamil Nadu Taking to X the Vice President wrote Blessed to get the blessings of my mother today at Tiruppur He also shared a photograph in which his mother can be seen blessing himRadhakrishnan who has been touring the region as part of a series of public engagements and community outreach programmes took a brief pause from his busy schedule to visit his family home The visit marked by warmth and simplicity was highlighted by his touching gesture of seeking his mothers blessings a tradition deeply rooted in Indian cultureEarlier on Tuesday the Vice President urged citizens to work with dedication and unity to achieve the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047Addressing the Coimbatore Citizens Forum Radhakrishnan said that both farmers and industrial workers form the backbone of Indias progress and that the nations prosperity depends on their collective strengthModernisation does not eliminate labour it enhances it the Vice President said emphasising that the growth of agriculture and industry must go hand in hand to ensure inclusive and sustainable national developmentHe added that Indias transformation into a developed nation by 2047 would require determination discipline and a shared sense of purpose among all citizensRadhakrishnan who began his public life in Coimbatore arrived in the city earlier in the day to a grand welcome marking his first visit after assuming office as Vice President last monthHe landed at the Coimbatore International Airport on a special flight from Seychelles where he had attended the swearingin ceremony of the island nations new PresidentTamil Nadu Ministers Muthusamy and Saminathan BJP State President Nainar Nagendran former State party chief K Annamalai and Coimbatore South MLA Vanathi Srinivasan received him IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-takes-time-out-of-busy-schedule-to-meet-his-mother-in-tiruppur-645340.html Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/no-culprit-of-will-be-spared-mp-cm-on-farmers-murder-in-guna-645153.html Guna Oct 27 In a swift midnight post on X Chief Minister Mohan Yadav broke the silence on a farmers daylight murder in Guna his words carrying the weight of both grief and command I express my condolences to the family he wrote before issuing an ironclad directive No culprit will be sparedWithin hours a case against 14 accused was filed one arrest made and the states lawenforcement machinery jolted into high gearWhat began as a land dispute in Ganeshpura village had ended in a fathers brutal deathand now the Chief Minister had made it a test of governanceAnkit Soni superintendent of police Guna has said that the police have arrested an accused Hukum Singh and have launched a manhunt for others including Mahendra Nagar Jitendra Nagar Kanhaiyalal Nagar and othersA longsimmering land dispute erupted into unimaginable brutality in Ganeshpura village under Fatehgarh police station limits claiming the life of 40yearold farmer Ramswaroop Dhakad and leaving his family shatteredAccording to police on Sunday afternoon as Dhakad walked to his fields with his wife Vindo Bai they were ambushed by a mob led by local BJP booth committee president Mahendra Nagar and his relatives including his sons Nitesh and Devendra wife Kamlesh Bai nephew Jitendra and around a dozen others among them womenEyewitnesses recounted a scene of sheer savagery The attackers armed with sticks rods and guns surrounded Dhakad and unleashed a frenzied assault pummeling him until he collapsed with multiple fractures across his bodyIn a final act of cruelty Nagar allegedly drove a Thar jeep over Dhakads limp form crushing him fatally When Vindo Bai and their two 17yearold daughters Tanisha and Krishna rushed to intervene the mob turned on them slapping the women viciously tearing the girls clothes and firing shots into the air to terrorise villagers from approachingPolice accounts also reveal that Dhakads maternal uncle Rajendra Nagar who joined the fray to help was also beaten For nearly an hour the assailants held the village hostage at gunpoint blocking locals from rushing Dhakad to a nearby health centreOnly after persistent pleas did they relent allowing the gravely injured family to be ferried to Guna District Hospital Dhakad succumbed en route or upon arrival his body riddled with trauma However SP Ankit Soni said victim died during treatmentThe survivorsVindo Bai Tanisha Krishna and Rajendraremain under treatment for fractures lacerations and emotional scars with the daughters particularly traumatised by the molestationThe trigger was a festering feud over six bighas of farmland in neighbouring Pachlavara village Baran district of Rajasthan owned by Dhakads maternal uncle Pappu NagarNagars relative Kanhaiya had been pressuring the family to relinquish it but Dhakads steadfast refusalamid allegations of Nagars yearslong reign of intimidationforces at least 25 small farmers to sell holdings at throwaway prices and flee GaneshpuraChief Minister Mohan Yadav who also holds the home portfolio condemned the unfortunate murder as a stain on the states law and orderNo one indulging in criminal acts will be spared he asserted directing police and district authorities to expedite the probe with utmost seriousnessAn FIR under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for murder conspiracy assault and outraging womens modesty has been registered against 14 named accused including the Nagars and four unidentified personsHukum Singh Mahendras elder brother was arrested late Sunday while the seized Thar jeep yielded bloodstains linking it to the crime Raids continue for the absconders with SubDivisional Police Officer Vivek Asthana vowing forensic sweeps and witness protectionThe BJP district unit acknowledging Mahendra Nagars role as a former Kisan Morcha officebearer who defected from Congress in 2020 has urged his immediate expulsionState BJP chief Hemant Khandelwal echoed the CM stating Our government will punish every criminal regardless of affiliation Yet the opposition Congress led by Bamori MLA Rishi Agrawal decried the incident as a Lakhimpur Kheri rerun accusing the ruling party of shielding land mafia and fostering impunityViolence looting and assaults are rampant under this regime Agrawal charged demanding a highlevel judicial inquiry and Scindias intervention given Gunas status in his Lok Sabha turfVillagers living in fear of reprisals whispered of Nagars unchecked dominance where defiance meant ruinAs Dhakads body was cremated amid wails his daughters tearful accountsThey sat on me tore my cloths and fired at usamplified calls for justice IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/no-culprit-of-will-be-spared-mp-cm-on-farmers-murder-in-guna-645153.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/no-culprit-will-be-spared-mp-cm-on-farmers-murder-in-guna-645154.html Guna Oct 27 In a swift midnight post on X Chief Minister Mohan Yadav broke the silence on a farmers daylight murder in Guna his words carrying the weight of both grief and command I express my condolences to the family he wrote before issuing an ironclad directive No culprit will be sparedWithin hours a case against 14 accused was filed one arrest made and the states lawenforcement machinery jolted into high gearWhat began as a land dispute in Ganeshpura village had ended in a fathers brutal deathand now the Chief Minister had made it a test of governanceAnkit Soni superintendent of police Guna has said that the police have arrested an accused Hukum Singh and have launched a manhunt for others including Mahendra Nagar Jitendra Nagar Kanhaiyalal Nagar and othersA longsimmering land dispute erupted into unimaginable brutality in Ganeshpura village under Fatehgarh police station limits claiming the life of 40yearold farmer Ramswaroop Dhakad and leaving his family shatteredAccording to police on Sunday afternoon as Dhakad walked to his fields with his wife Vindo Bai they were ambushed by a mob led by local BJP booth committee president Mahendra Nagar and his relatives including his sons Nitesh and Devendra wife Kamlesh Bai nephew Jitendra and around a dozen others among them womenEyewitnesses recounted a scene of sheer savagery The attackers armed with sticks rods and guns surrounded Dhakad and unleashed a frenzied assault pummeling him until he collapsed with multiple fractures across his bodyIn a final act of cruelty Nagar allegedly drove a Thar jeep over Dhakads limp form crushing him fatally When Vindo Bai and their two 17yearold daughters Tanisha and Krishna rushed to intervene the mob turned on them slapping the women viciously tearing the girls clothes and firing shots into the air to terrorise villagers from approachingPolice accounts also reveal that Dhakads maternal uncle Rajendra Nagar who joined the fray to help was also beaten For nearly an hour the assailants held the village hostage at gunpoint blocking locals from rushing Dhakad to a nearby health centreOnly after persistent pleas did they relent allowing the gravely injured family to be ferried to Guna District Hospital Dhakad succumbed en route or upon arrival his body riddled with trauma However SP Ankit Soni said victim died during treatmentThe survivorsVindo Bai Tanisha Krishna and Rajendraremain under treatment for fractures lacerations and emotional scars with the daughters particularly traumatised by the molestationThe trigger was a festering feud over six bighas of farmland in neighbouring Pachlavara village Baran district of Rajasthan owned by Dhakads maternal uncle Pappu NagarNagars relative Kanhaiya had been pressuring the family to relinquish it but Dhakads steadfast refusalamid allegations of Nagars yearslong reign of intimidationforces at least 25 small farmers to sell holdings at throwaway prices and flee GaneshpuraChief Minister Mohan Yadav who also holds the home portfolio condemned the unfortunate murder as a stain on the states law and orderNo one indulging in criminal acts will be spared he asserted directing police and district authorities to expedite the probe with utmost seriousnessAn FIR under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for murder conspiracy assault and outraging womens modesty has been registered against 14 named accused including the Nagars and four unidentified personsHukum Singh Mahendras elder brother was arrested late Sunday while the seized Thar jeep yielded bloodstains linking it to the crime Raids continue for the absconders with SubDivisional Police Officer Vivek Asthana vowing forensic sweeps and witness protectionThe BJP district unit acknowledging Mahendra Nagars role as a former Kisan Morcha officebearer who defected from Congress in 2020 has urged his immediate expulsionState BJP chief Hemant Khandelwal echoed the CM stating Our government will punish every criminal regardless of affiliation Yet the opposition Congress led by Bamori MLA Rishi Agrawal decried the incident as a Lakhimpur Kheri rerun accusing the ruling party of shielding land mafia and fostering impunityViolence looting and assaults are rampant under this regime Agrawal charged demanding a highlevel judicial inquiry and Scindias intervention given Gunas status in his Lok Sabha turfVillagers living in fear of reprisals whispered of Nagars unchecked dominance where defiance meant ruinAs Dhakads body was cremated amid wails his daughters tearful accountsThey sat on me tore my cloths and fired at usamplified calls for justice IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/no-culprit-will-be-spared-mp-cm-on-farmers-murder-in-guna-645154.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/no-culprit-will-be-spared-mp-cm-on-farmers-murder-in-guna-645155.html Guna Oct 27 In a swift midnight post on X Chief Minister Mohan Yadav broke the silence on a farmers daylight murder in Guna his words carrying the weight of both grief and command I express my condolences to the family he wrote before issuing an ironclad directive No culprit will be sparedWithin hours a case against 14 accused was filed one arrest made and the states lawenforcement machinery jolted into high gearWhat began as a land dispute in Ganeshpura village had ended in a fathers brutal deathand now the Chief Minister had made it a test of governanceAnkit Soni superintendent of police Guna has said that the police have arrested an accused Hukum Singh and have launched a manhunt for others including Mahendra Nagar Jitendra Nagar Kanhaiyalal Nagar and othersA longsimmering land dispute erupted into unimaginable brutality in Ganeshpura village under Fatehgarh police station limits claiming the life of 40yearold farmer Ramswaroop Dhakad and leaving his family shatteredAccording to police on Sunday afternoon as Dhakad walked to his fields with his wife Vindo Bai they were ambushed by a mob led by local BJP booth committee president Mahendra Nagar and his relatives including his sons Nitesh and Devendra wife Kamlesh Bai nephew Jitendra and around a dozen others among them womenEyewitnesses recounted a scene of sheer savagery The attackers armed with sticks rods and guns surrounded Dhakad and unleashed a frenzied assault pummeling him until he collapsed with multiple fractures across his bodyIn a final act of cruelty Nagar allegedly drove a Thar jeep over Dhakads limp form crushing him fatally When Vindo Bai and their two 17yearold daughters Tanisha and Krishna rushed to intervene the mob turned on them slapping the women viciously tearing the girls clothes and firing shots into the air to terrorise villagers from approachingPolice accounts also reveal that Dhakads maternal uncle Rajendra Nagar who joined the fray to help was also beaten For nearly an hour the assailants held the village hostage at gunpoint blocking locals from rushing Dhakad to a nearby health centreOnly after persistent pleas did they relent allowing the gravely injured family to be ferried to Guna District Hospital Dhakad succumbed en route or upon arrival his body riddled with trauma However SP Ankit Soni said victim died during treatmentThe survivorsVindo Bai Tanisha Krishna and Rajendraremain under treatment for fractures lacerations and emotional scars with the daughters particularly traumatised by the molestationThe trigger was a festering feud over six bighas of farmland in neighbouring Pachlavara village Baran district of Rajasthan owned by Dhakads maternal uncle Pappu NagarNagars relative Kanhaiya had been pressuring the family to relinquish it but Dhakads steadfast refusalamid allegations of Nagars yearslong reign of intimidationforces at least 25 small farmers to sell holdings at throwaway prices and flee GaneshpuraChief Minister Mohan Yadav who also holds the home portfolio condemned the unfortunate murder as a stain on the states law and orderNo one indulging in criminal acts will be spared he asserted directing police and district authorities to expedite the probe with utmost seriousnessAn FIR under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for murder conspiracy assault and outraging womens modesty has been registered against 14 named accused including the Nagars and four unidentified personsHukum Singh Mahendras elder brother was arrested late Sunday while the seized Thar jeep yielded bloodstains linking it to the crime Raids continue for the absconders with SubDivisional Police Officer Vivek Asthana vowing forensic sweeps and witness protectionThe BJP district unit acknowledging Mahendra Nagars role as a former Kisan Morcha officebearer who defected from Congress in 2020 has urged his immediate expulsionState BJP chief Hemant Khandelwal echoed the CM stating Our government will punish every criminal regardless of affiliation Yet the opposition Congress led by Bamori MLA Rishi Agrawal decried the incident as a Lakhimpur Kheri rerun accusing the ruling party of shielding land mafia and fostering impunityViolence looting and assaults are rampant under this regime Agrawal charged demanding a highlevel judicial inquiry and Scindias intervention given Gunas status in his Lok Sabha turfVillagers living in fear of reprisals whispered of Nagars unchecked dominance where defiance meant ruinAs Dhakads body was cremated amid wails his daughters tearful accountsThey sat on me tore my cloths and fired at usamplified calls for justice IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/no-culprit-will-be-spared-mp-cm-on-farmers-murder-in-guna-645155.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-announces-rashtriya-vigyan-puraskar-honouring-scientific-achievements-645156.html New Delhi Oct 28 Indias scientific community received a resounding tribute last week with the announcement of the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar RVP 2025 list honouring 24 distinguished scientists and one pioneering research team for transformative contributions across diverse domains Building on the inaugural edition the awards underscore the Union governments vision of Viksit Bharat through Vigyan a developed India powered by scientific temper and innovationAt the apex stands the Vigyan Ratna the nations highest civilian honour in science and technology instituted in 2023 and first conferred in 2024 upon Dr Govindarajan Padmanabhan the eminent biochemist whose decadeslong work on the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum illuminated drug resistance mechanisms and inspired global antimalarial strategiesConferred annually on National Space Day which is celebrated on August 23 it mirrors the prestige of the Bharat Ratna but is dedicated solely to lifetime scientific excellenceComplementing this pinnacle are three other categoriesEight senior researchers received the Vigyan Shri for sustained impact in fields ranging from quantum materials to sustainable agricultureFourteen early and midcareer innovators all under 45 were named Vigyan YuvaShanti Swarup Bhatnagar awardees a reimagining of the iconic SS Bhatnagar Prize to nurture Indias next generation of scientific leadersThe sole Vigyan Team award went to the CSIR Aroma Mission a multiinstitutional consortium that has revitalised aromatic crop cultivation across 60000 hectares empowering more than 50000 farmers in 26 states with highyielding lavender rosemary and lemongrass varieties generating Rs 1200 crore in rural revenue since 2017The 2025 cohort reflects Indias widening scientific footprintAmong the Vigyan Shri recipients are a climate modeller whose AIdriven monsoon forecasts have reduced crop losses by 18 per cent in Odisha and a materials scientist whose biodegradable polymer from agricultural waste is now scaling for medical implantsThe Yuva awardees include a 38yearold astrophysicist decoding fast radio bursts at Punes Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope and a 41yearold biotechnologist engineering salttolerant rice strains already under field trials in coastal Tamil NaduLaunched in 2023 to replace 16 fragmented science awards the RVP scheme streamlines recognition under a single transparent frameworkNominations are vetted by a 300member searchcumselection committee chaired by the Principal Scientific Adviser to Union government Ajay Kumar Sood ensuring peerdriven meritocracyUnlike earlier prizes RVP carries no cash component instead offering a sanad citation and a medal cast in panchdhatu symbolising unity of five classical elementsThe awards will be presented by President Droupadi Murmu at a Rashtrapati Bhavan ceremony on National Science Day on February 28 2026As India targets a 1 trillion research economy by 2047 the RVP not only celebrates past breakthroughs but signals a national resolve to place science at the heart of development IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-announces-rashtriya-vigyan-puraskar-honouring-scientific-achievements-645156.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ancient-chola-era-sculptures-unearthed-near-villupuram-village-in-tn-645161.html Chennai Oct 28 In a remarkable archaeological discovery a set of stone sculptures dating back nearly 1000 years to the Chola period has been found near Kooteripattu in Villupuram district The ancient artefacts identified during a recent field survey by historian Senguttuvan of Villupuram were located in and around Alagramam village a site already known for its historical significanceThe findings include intricately carved images of Vaishnavi Devi Kaumari and a Buddhist figure each believed to date to around the 10th century CE Experts say the discovery sheds new light on the regions religious diversity and the artistic excellence that flourished under the CholasThe halfburied sculpture of Vaishnavi Devi was discovered at the Chekkadi Street Junction The goddess is depicted seated gracefully her four arms bearing distinct attributes The front hands are in the abhaya mudra and resting on her thigh while the rear hands hold a conch and discus symbols associated with Lord Vishnus divine powerThe figures detailed carving and serene expression reflect the stylistic precision of early medieval Tamil art Nearby on the premises of the Chelliamman temple another rare sculpture of Kaumari was unearthedShe is shown seated with one leg folded and the other hanging down adorned with a warriors chain and ornate jewelleryThe figures posture and detailing highlight the influence of Chola craftsmanship and the iconographic traditions of the Sapta Matrikas Seven Mother GoddessesAdding further significance to the find a Buddhist sculpture depicting Avalokiteshvara the Bodhisattva of compassion was located along Jain temple streetThe figure seated under a fiveheaded serpent points to the historical coexistence of Buddhist and Jain traditions in Villupuram Senior epigraphist Vijay Venugopal noted that the discovery confirms the oncevibrant spread of Buddhism in the regionArchaeologist Sreedharan has verified that all the sculptures belong to the Chola period and were likely part of a nowvanished Shiva temple complexHistorian Senguttuvan urged immediate steps for proper preservation and documentation revealing that a halfburied inscribed stone slab was also found nearbyHe appealed to the Archaeological Department and local authorities to safeguard the site for future research and conservation IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ancient-chola-era-sculptures-unearthed-near-villupuram-village-in-tn-645161.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 08:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/coimbatore-corporation-submits-rs-102-crore-plan-for-noyyal-riverfront-revamp-645164.html Chennai Oct 28 Giving a renewed push to the restoration of the Noyyal River the Coimbatore Corporation has submitted a detailed project report DPR to the state government seeking Rs 102 crore for developing a 43km stretch of the riverfront from Nanjundapuram to Athupalam The proposal is part of the state governments initiative to rejuvenate urban riverfronts for which Rs 400 crore was earmarked in the current fiscal for five districts including CoimbatoreThe ambitious project aims to combine ecological restoration with public recreation making the riverfront a green and accessible urban spaceIt is a joint effort of the state government and the Coimbatore Corporation with Tamil Nadu Urban Infrastructure Financial Services Limited TNUIFSL designated as the funding agencyAlongside this plan the civic body has also forwarded a separate Rs 100crore proposal for building three new sewage treatment plants STPs and for upgrading underground drainage intersections and diversionsAccording to the DPR the project will focus on strengthening and improving the bunds on both sides of the river creating road access along the banks and developing public amenities such as parks openair gyms and viewing points Three new STPs are proposed to intercept sewage discharge into the river with the project identifying 41 points where untreated wastewater currently enters the watercourse Designed on ecofriendly principles the Noyyal Riverfront Project will adhere to norms of the Germanbased KfW Development Bank prioritising minimal concrete use and extensive green cover The plan envisions a sevenmetrewide road on one bund with recreational facilities and landscaped areas on the opposite side The overall layout aims to preserve the natural width of the river prevent encroachments and maintain a sustainable ratio of 70 per cent greenery to 30 per cent built structures Experts have stressed the need to safeguard the rivers natural flow and recommended including data on historical flood levels to guide design and safety parameters However concerns have also emerged from local farming groups about the lack of consultation during public review meetings and the necessity of additional STPs given that existing ones are underutilised Once approved the project is expected to transform the Noyyal Riverfront into a major ecological and recreational corridor for Coimbatore while supporting longterm urban water management goals IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/coimbatore-corporation-submits-rs-102-crore-plan-for-noyyal-riverfront-revamp-645164.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 09:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/police-give-clean-chit-to-main-suspect-in-delhi-acid-attack-case-645166.html New Delhi Oct 28 The man accused of throwing acid on a 20yearold girl near Laxmi Bai College in Delhi has been given a clean chit by the police after officials reviewed evidence showing that he was not present at the crime scene In her complaint the acid attack victim had alleged that the accused was involved in the acid attack However during police questioning the accused claimed that he was not present at the crime scene and was instead in Karol Bagh for workAccording to the police officials CCTV footage from the Karol Bagh area shows the accused riding a motorcycle when the incident happened near the Laxmi Bai College Based on this footage the police have so far given a clean chit to the manAdditionally the acid attack victims father Akil Khan has been arrested for sexually assaulting the accuseds wifeThe arrest confirmed late Monday evening by senior officials at Bharat Nagar police station marks a pivotal shift in an investigation already mired in contradictions family vendettas and competing narratives of harassment and revengeKhan a 45yearold factory owner from Mukundpur was located hiding in a relatives residence in neighbouring Ghaziabad after a tipoff from local intelligence networksAccording to police sources he is being transported back to Delhi under heavy escort for intensive questioning expected to commence early Tuesday at the stations interrogation cellAuthorities suspect his involvement in orchestrating elements of the incident or fabricating details to bolster the initial complaint though no formal charges have been filed against him yet in the acid attack FIRThe case erupted on October 26 around 1052 am when the victima secondyear NonCollegiate Womens Education Board student affiliated with Delhi Universitywas admitted to Deep Chand Bandhu Hospital with severe burns on both hands and minor splashes to her stomachForensic analysis by the Forensic Science Laboratory confirmed the liquid as a potent acid causing five per cent burns primarily from her instinctive shielding of her face with her bagA case under Sections 1241 and 35 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita was registered as FIR No 6052025 with crime scene teams scouring the area near the college gate for residue and eyewitnesses IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/police-give-clean-chit-to-main-suspect-in-delhi-acid-attack-case-645166.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 09:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/severe-cyclone-montha-comes-hurtling-towards-andhra-coast-645169.html Amaravati Oct 28 Cyclone Montha in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclone and is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam near Kakinada on Tuesday night Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority APSDA said in the morning that the cyclone moved at a speed of 15 km per hour during the last six hours and is currently centered 190 km from Machilipatnam 270 km from Kakinada and 340 km from VisakhapatnamASDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain said that at the time of the cyclones landfall strong gales with a speed of 90110 kmph are likely Under the impact of the cyclone very heavy rainfall is likely along the entire Andhra coast from Srikakulam to Nellore Some areas may receive extremely heavy rainfallThe APSDMA has advised people to remain indoors It asked people not to panic and assured them that the state administration is with themThe India Meteorological Department IMD has issued a red alert for the coastal districts which also face the threat of flash floodsA storm surge of about one metre above the astronomical tide is also expected along the coast which may inundate lowlying areasSrikakulam Vizianagaram Visakhapatnam Anakapalle Nellore Konaseema and Kakinada districts are already receiving heavy rain with strong winds At least 95 places have recorded heavy to very heavy rainfallHigh tidal waves have damaged the UppadaKakinada beach road Authorities have closed the road for trafficFishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea for five days All activities on the coast have been suspended Authorities have closed the beaches for touristsAccording to officials the cyclone is likely to impact 1419 villages in 233 mandals and 44 municipalities Authorities have already opened 2194 relief camps in these areasThe administration is ready to shift people to relief camps where necessary Special attention has been paid to 3465 pregnant womennursing mothers for careA total of 558 control rooms have been set up including one state control room 19 district control rooms and 54 revenue division control roomsSixteen satellite phones 35 DMR sets and other equipment have been made available in the districts for the communication systemAs a precautionary measure South Central Railway and East Coast Railway have announced the cancellation of over 100 trains for the next two daysEleven teams of National Disaster Response Force NDRF and 12 teams of State Disaster Response Force SDRF have reached the coastal districts for relief operations while some more teams are available at the headquarters IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/severe-cyclone-montha-comes-hurtling-towards-andhra-coast-645169.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/attacks-on-adani-group-coordinated-effort-to-undermine-indias-growth-lawyer-645176.html New Delhi Oct 28 Supreme Court advocate Ishkaran Singh Bhandari has said that recent reports by foreign media targeting the Adani Group are part of a larger coordinated effort to undermine Indias economic growth and private industrial progress In a conversation with IANS Bhandari said this is not the first time such attempts have been made to malign the Adani GroupFor years the Adani conglomerate has been repeatedly targeted These are the same companies that play a crucial role in Indias economic backbone operating in key sectors such as ports airports and energy he saidForeign interests do not want Indian enterprises to gain strength and global recognition in these strategic areas he told IANSHe recalled that the Adani Group had earlier faced similar allegations from Hindenburg Research which has been shut down which even led to a Supreme Courtmonitored investigationDespite the probe and the formation of a special committee no evidence of wrongdoing was ever found Yet the narrative continues to be pushed for ulterior motives Bhandari notedCalling the campaign a longrunning international conspiracy he cited examples of global financiers like George Soros who according to him have openly linked Adanirelated controversies to political outcomes in IndiaPeople who dont even live in India are trying to interfere with our economic stability he saidBhandari dismissed such reports as fit for the dustbin adding that raising them in Parliament or during election debates serves an antiIndia purposeDefending LICs investment in Adani Ports he said If an American company can profit from investing in Mumbai Airport why cant LIC invest in Adani Ports There is nothing questionable about itLICs investment processes are transparent and multilayered It has always invested in Indian enterprises thats part of its mandate Bhandari mentionedHe argued that questioning LICs investments while ignoring those of foreign investors exposes the hypocrisy behind such criticismIndia is now the worlds fourthlargest economy Those trying to weaken LICs profitability under the guise of transparency are actually seeking to undermine Indias growth story he saidBhandari urged citizens and lawmakers to reject agendadriven foreign narratives that attempt to erode confidence in Indian industry and private investment These baseless reports are designed to shake faith in Indias economic momentum and must be firmly dismissed he stated IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/attacks-on-adani-group-coordinated-effort-to-undermine-indias-growth-lawyer-645176.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-college-student-working-part-time-with-blinkit-misbehaves-with-brazilian-model-arrested-645180.html Bengaluru Oct 28 A student enrolled in a reputed private college and working as a Blinkit delivery staffer has been arrested on charges of misbehaving with a Brazilian model in the RT Nagar police station limits Bengaluru The accused identified as Kiran Rao Pawar has been arrested by the police on charges of sexual harassmentKarthik the owner of the firm where the victim worked lodged a police complaint in this regardConsidering the seriousness of the case the police acted swiftly and arrested the accusedThe complaint was lodged on October 25 while the incident occurred on October 17According to the FIR the victim had not revealed the traumatic experience earlier due to fearThe police have booked the accused under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita They have also obtained CCTV footage of the incidentAs per the FIR the victim a Brazilian national was provided accommodation by the firm in an apartment in RT Nagar Bengaluru Two other models also stayed with herOn October 17 the victims friend ordered food through the Blinkit app and at about 320 pm the accused delivery staffer arrived at their flat to deliver the order The victim went to receive the foodAccording to the FIR the accused behaved inappropriately with the Brazilian woman and offensively touched her The victim pushed him away rushed inside the flat and locked the door However she did not immediately share the incident with her friendsLater the victim and the two other women both foreign nationals informed the complainant about the incident The complainant verified the CCTV footage and confirmed the assault following which he lodged a complaint with the policeEarlier Basaveshwarnagar Police arrested a Zepto delivery executive for allegedly assaulting a customer over providing a wrong address for delivery After a video of the executive allegedly assaulting the customer went viral police tracked down the accused Vishnuvardhan a resident of Vijayanagar arrested him and let him go on station bailThe accused studied in class 12 and worked as a delivery executive in his free time The complaint in this regard was filed on May 21 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengaluru-college-student-working-part-time-with-blinkit-misbehaves-with-brazilian-model-arrested-645180.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-danger-signal-seven-hoisted-at-kakinada-port-645181.html Visakhapatnam Oct 28 With severe cyclone Montha in the Bay of Bengal racing towards the Andhra Pradesh coast authorities have hoisted danger signal number seven at Kakinda port Cyclone Warning Centre Visakhapatnam has issued danger signal number six at Visakhapatnam and Gangavaram portsDanger signal number five has been hoisted at Machilipatnam Nizampatnam and Krishnapatnam portsInformatory messages have been sent to Kalingapatnam Bheemunipatnam and Vadarevu portsAccording to India Meteorological Department IMD cyclonic storm Montha over westcentral Bay of Bengal moved northnorthwestwards with a speed of 15 kmph during past six hours intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and lay centered at 0530 hrs IST of Tuesday over the same region about 190 km southsoutheast of Machilipatnam Andhra Pradesh 270 km southsoutheast of Kakinada Andhra Pradesh 340 km southsouthwest of Visakhapatnam Andhra Pradesh 550 km southsouthwest of Gopalpur OdishaIt is likely to continue to move northnorthwestwards and cross Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around Kakinada during the eveningnight of today the 28th October as a severe cyclonic storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 90100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph the IMD saidThe IMD has issued a red alert for coastal Andhra Pradesh It said in a bulletin that scattered heavy to very heavy with extremely heavy rainfall likely to occur at one or two places over Srikakulam Parvathipuram Manyam Vizianagaram Visakhapatnam Alluri Sitharama Raju Anakapalli KakinadaYanam Dr B R Ambedkar Konaseema East Godavari West Godavari Eluru NTR Krishna Guntur Palnadu Bapatla and Prakasam districts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and YanamHeavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur at a few places over Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore Tirupati Annamayya YSR Kadapa and Nandyal districts of Coastal Andhra Pradesh Yanam and RayalaseemaIndian National Centre for Ocean Information Services INCOIS has issued high wave alerts for coastal districtsIt forecasted high waves in the range of 3 47 meters INCOIS advised small vessels not to ply near shore and to avoid recreational activities Erosionwave surges are possible under the impact of the cyclone IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-danger-signal-seven-hoisted-at-kakinada-port-645181.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-wary-as-possible-delay-in-nepal-polls-opens-space-for-external-influence-645185.html New Delhi Oct 28 India is keeping a close watch on the political developments in Nepal as stability in the country is crucial since the two countries share a 1700kilometre border Officials said that India is wary of external influence in Nepal and hence elections must be held soon Currently there is an interim government in place and this was installed following the Gen Z protests during which 73 people died The K P Oli government was thrown out following protestsIndian agencies suspect that external elements are making attempts to create a political vacuum in the country If a caretaker government prolongs then it gives other countries including China time to influence Nepal through both economic and infrastructure projectsMany external elements are also trying to exploit the Maoist sentiments in the country and if this sets in then Nepal could descend into chaos This would cause a great amount of instability and other countries could exploit this situationIndian officials say that their main priority is to prevent Nepal from plunging into chaos Hence it is important that the political process gets rolling and elections are held as soon as possibleA caretaker government may be accountable but it is not the same that a democratically elected would have to be They are answerable to the people and will have to face them during an electionWhile the Gen Z mainly comprising students ensured that Oli stepped down such protests cannot happen regularlyThe concerns for India stem from the fact that elections may be delayed in Nepal Attempts are being made to push the elections to either May or June instead of March 2026Attempts are allegedly being made to weaken some of the political parties so that others have an advantage when the elections are held Some leaders have also complained about getting threats and hence they fear that the democratic process may be erodedOne of the biggest fixes that Nepal needs now is its economy and job market If this is not fixed it affects the younger generation the most The youth have been complaining that the economy is in distress and there are no jobs available They had accused the Oli government of doing nothing about the situation They further accused that those in power had become corrupt and their children led lavish lives while the youth looked for jobsAnother official said that if the situation fails to improve then there is every chance of violence breaking out again While the external elements would try and take advantage of the situation it also poses a huge problem at the Indian borderAdding to the problem is the ISI which uses the NepalIndia border as a transit for criminals and terrorists The border with Nepal has largely been a peaceful one and India would not want that dynamic to changeThe Indian security forces are already guarding tense borders India shares a border with Pakistan in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir Further the borders with China are tense while the situation in Bangladesh has increased the workload of the security forces at the IndoBangla borderIn the aftermath of the protests attempts were made by external elements to ensure that the violence continued However once Oli was out the army took control of the situation The army stood with the protesters as it felt that their demands were valid The army also left it up to the protesters to decide on who would be the caretaker prime ministerLooking at the fragile situation India hopes that a government will be elected soon so that any external influence can be avoided IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-wary-as-possible-delay-in-nepal-polls-opens-space-for-external-influence-645185.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-andhra-pradesh-introduces-real-time-voice-alert-system-645188.html Amaravati Oct 28 With severe cyclone Montha in the Bay of Bengal hurtling towards the Andhra Pradesh coast the state government has introduced a realtime voice alert system in coastal districts Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority APSDMA said on Tuesday that as per Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidus directive to provide cyclone information to the public in various forms cyclone warnings through realtime voice alerts were introduced on a pilot basis in 26 coastal villagesRealtime voice alerts for the Montha cyclone warnings are being delivered within minutes in these coastal villages on an experimental basisEven in the event of a power outage a 360degree horn speaker system provides clear warnings even within a radius of one kilometre This system will be expanded to more villages said APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar JainHe stated that the state government is at the forefront of using awareness alert broadcasting technologyPeople are being alerted from time to time through messages interactive voice response calls tomtoms and fieldlevel officialsMinisters and top officials of the state government are monitoring the cyclone situation in realtime from the Real Time Governance Society RTGS centre at the State SecretariatChief Minister Naidu who is also visiting the RTGS war room to personally review the situation said that they were assessing the impact of the cyclone on an hourly basis He directed officials to continuously provide accurate information to the public to keep them alertAccording to the India Meteorological Department IMD cyclonic storm Montha over westcentral Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and lay centred at 0530 hrs IST of Tuesday about 190 km southsoutheast of Machilipatnam 270 km southsoutheast of Kakinada and 340 km southsouthwest of VisakhapatnamIt is likely to continue to move northnorthwestwards and cross Andhra Pradesh coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam around Kakinada during the eveningnight of today the 28th October as a severe cyclonic storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 90100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph the IMD said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-andhra-pradesh-introduces-real-time-voice-alert-system-645188.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-bjp-leader-arrested-in-assault-case-645192.html Kolkata Oct 28 Bengal BJP leader Rakesh Singh and his children were arrested allegedly for going on a rampage inside a housing complex in the Kasba area of Kolkata police said on Tuesday According to the police the incident occurred on Monday during which Rakesh and his daughter and son allegedly assaulted the owner of a flat and his childrenThe police said that the BJP leader has a flat in a multistoreyed building in Kasba However he was accused of forcibly occupying another flat in the same residential complexWhen the owner of the flat went to remove things from the place along with his workers Rakesh Singh and his children allegedly attacked himThe victim alleged that the attackers had firearmsThe owner of the flat Chandu Khan was injured in the attack and was admitted to a hospital Chandus sons Saptarshi Khan and Rajarshi Khan were also injuredThey alleged that the BJP leader his son and daughter beat them up with the butt of a gun and knivesBased on their complaint the Kasba Police arrested Rakesh Singh his children Shivam and SimranRajarshi Khan said Rakesh Singh has a flat on the fourth floor He has forcibly occupied our flat on the third floor He has kept his belongings there I have repeatedly asked him to remove the belongings But he did not remove them We were taking the workers today and putting their belongings down because we were paying rent Then eight to nine people came and beat my father and brother They had firearms in their hands They beat them with gun butts My father had to be admitted to the hospital They also attacked me with a knifeA senior officer of Kolkata Police said The BJP leader and his son and daughter have been arrested A case has been registered against them Investigation is onOn September 3 Kolkata Police arrested Rakesh Singh on charges of vandalism at the headquarters of the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee in Kolkata The BJP leader had been absconding since he led the vandalism at the state Congress headquarters in Kolkata on August 29On September 1 the police arrested Rakesh Singhs elder son Shivam Singh for allegedly aiding his fathers escape who is the main accused in the vandalism Singh was arrested based on an FIR lodged by the Congress against the alleged attack and defacement of posters of its leaders Rahul Gandhi and others IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-bjp-leader-arrested-in-assault-case-645192.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/two-charred-to-death-as-bus-hits-high-tension-power-line-in-jaipur-645194.html Jaipur Oct 28 Two people were killed while 12 others suffered burn injuries after a bus carrying labourers came in contact with a hightension power line in the Manoharpur area about 50 kilometres from Jaipur on Tuesday According to officials the labourers were being transported to a brick kiln in Todi village when the accident occurredThe bus reportedly brushed against an overhead hightension line causing an electric current to surge through the vehicle and triggering a fire Locals rushed to the scene and helped rescue those trapped inside the burning busEyewitnesses said several passengers sustained severe burns before they could be pulled outVillagers claimed they had repeatedly urged the local administration to remove or raise the height of these hightension lines but no action had been takenUpon receiving information about the incident Jaipur District Collector Jitendra Soni and senior police officials rushed to the spotA special district police and civil defence team were also deployed to assist in rescue operations The injured were initially taken to the Shahpura SubDistrict Hospital where doctors declared two workers dead on arrivalFive critically injured patients were later referred to Sawai Mansingh SMS Hospital in Jaipur for advanced treatmentHospital authorities have confirmed that an emergency team was put on alert to receive the victimsPreliminary investigations suggest that the bus exceeded the safe height limit and came into contact with the live wirePolice have registered a case of negligence against the bus driver and are conducting further inquiriesThe deceased have not yet been identified but are believed to be migrant workers employed at a local brick kilnExpressing grief over the incident Congress leader Ashok Gehlot said The tragic incident in Manoharpur Jaipur where a bus carrying workers caught fire after coming into contact with a hightension line resulted in two deaths and several injuries is deeply saddeningThe increasing number of such accidents in Rajasthan is a matter of serious concern My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families and I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured Gehlot the former chief minister saidRecently over 20 people were charred to death in a bus fire tragedy in Jaisalmer IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/two-charred-to-death-as-bus-hits-high-tension-power-line-in-jaipur-645194.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-cm-naidu-urges-nda-mps-mlas-to-stand-by-people-645203.html Amaravati Oct 28 Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday asked the NDA MPs ministers MLAs and other leaders to stand by the people in the wake of severe cyclone Montha In a teleconference with the NDA MPs ministers and MLAs he said from cadre to leader everyone should help people in the time of calamityThe Telugu Desam Party TDP president told the leaders of TDP Jana Sena and BJP to be available to people in the cycloneaffected areasStating that cyclone Montha is going to affect the state the Chief Minister informed the leaders that as per the current information it is approaching the state from a distance of 270 km from Kakinada at a speed of 15 kmThe cyclone is likely to cross the coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam There is a possibility of heavy rains in Krishna West Godavari Konaseema and Eluru districtsCM Naidu spoke about the steps being taken to completely reduce the loss of life and prevent property damageWe are sending messages to mobile phones in real time depending on the severity of the situation We have informed the authorities about the steps to be taken to save the crops from being submergedHe wanted NDA workers to come forward as volunteers and participate in relief activities by sensitising the peopleThe Chief Minister also told the NDA MPs that the coalition government will also seek Central assistance if necessaryThe governments goal is to save the lives of the people and reduce the loss We should be there for the people in times of crisis The NDA machinery should cooperate with the government machinery in cyclone relief measures he saidRecalling that the government dealt effectively with Titli and Hudhud cyclones CM Naidu exuded confidence that it will also effectively deal with MonthaThe Chief Minister told the NDA leaders that the rains under the impact of the cyclone were affecting 39 constituenciesThe government has deployed NDRF and SDRF personnel at the field level in view of the possibility of flash floodsWe are making arrangements to remove fallen trees and poles on a war footing We have brought back the fishermen who went fishing in the sea The NDA cadres should also have coordination with them he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-cm-naidu-urges-nda-mps-mlas-to-stand-by-people-645203.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-to-appoint-76-animal-welfare-officers-set-up-138-new-centres-for-stray-dog-control-645207.html Chennai Oct 28 In a major step toward curbing the stray dog population and preventing rabies outbreaks the Tamil Nadu Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services has announced the appointment of 76 districtlevel animal welfare officers across the state as part of a largescale sterilisation and immunisation drive The initiative will be implemented in coordination with the Tamil Nadu Animal Welfare Board TNAWB which is preparing to roll out a mass antirabies vaccination campaign in collaboration with corporations municipalities and town panchayats outside ChennaiThe move comes amid growing concerns over stray dog attacks and the spread of zoonotic diseases According to a recent government order the 76 new appointees will include 38 districtlevel animal welfare officers and 38 veterinary surgeons with expertise in Animal Birth Control ABC surgeriesThese positions will be filled on a oneyear contractual basis with extensions possible based on performance and requirementsThe recruitment process is expected to be completed by the first week of December The newlyappointed officers will oversee multiple responsibilities from ensuring the humane conduct of traditional events such as jallikattu and taking legal action in cases of animal cruelty to conducting awareness campaigns on responsible pet ownership rabies prevention and sterilisationTo strengthen infrastructure for the upcoming drive the department has also proposed the establishment of 38 new ABC centres with shelter facilities capable of accommodating up to 100 dogs eachAdditionally another 100 centres are planned without shelter facilities focusing exclusively on sterilisation and vaccination procedures In a bid to scientifically track and manage the states stray dog population the TNAWB has initiated the procurement of 24 lakh RFID radio frequency identification tags to microchip sterilised and vaccinated dogs This will help local bodies monitor coverage and prevent duplicationThe veterinary surgeons will handle ABC surgeries provide postoperative care and administer vaccines Supporting staff for the operation of these centres will also be appointed soon said a senior official from the departmentThe largescale programme marks one of Tamil Nadus most comprehensive efforts in animal welfare combining public health goals with humane management of stray animals IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-to-appoint-76-animal-welfare-officers-set-up-138-new-centres-for-stray-dog-control-645207.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-services-led-growth-becoming-more-balanced-inclusive-niti-aayog-report-645209.html New Delhi Oct 28 The servicesled growth in Indias economy is becoming more regionally balanced as states with lower initial shares in services are catching up with more advanced ones according to a NITI Aayog report released on Tuesday There is clear evidence that structurally lagging States are beginning to catch up with advanced ones This emerging pattern of convergence suggests that Indias servicesled transformation is gradually becoming more broadbased and spatially inclusive the report statesThe services sector has become the cornerstone of Indias economic growth contributing nearly 55 per cent of national GVA Gross Value Added in 202425To guide policy the report introduces a quadrantbased framework that classifies 15 major service subsectors into four categoriesEngines of Growth Emerging Stars Mature Giants and Struggling Segmentsto support differentiated strategies across StatesThe report recommends prioritising digital infrastructure logistics innovation finance and skilling to accelerate diversification and competitiveness at the sectoral levelIt also recommends that at the state level there is a need for developing tailored service strategies based on local strengths improving institutional capacity integrating services with industrial ecosystems and scaling up urban and regional service clustersTogether these findings offer a forwardlooking policy road map for positioning the services sector as a key growth engine across India reinforcing its central role in the Viksit Bharat 2047 visionA companion report titled Indias Services Sector Insights from Employment Trends and StateLevel Dynamics focusses on employment within the services sector drawing on data from the NSS 201112 and PLFS 201718 to 202324It offers a longrun and multidimensional view of Indias services workforce across subsectors gender regions education and occupations The report goes beyond aggregate trends to reveal the sectors dual character modern highproductivity segments that are globally competitive yet limited in employment intensity and traditional segments that absorb large numbers of workers but remain predominantly informal and lowpayingBy linking historical and contemporary data it situates these patterns within a broader framework of structural transformation offering an integrated understanding of the opportunities and divides that shape Indias servicesled employment transitionFindings show that while services remain the mainstay of Indias employment growth and postpandemic recovery challenges persist Employment generation is uneven across subsectors informality remains widespread and job quality continues to lag behind output growth Gender gaps ruralurban divides and regional disparities underline the need for an employment strategy that integrates formalisation inclusion and productivity enhancement at its coreTo bridge these gaps the report outlines a fourpart policy road map focussing on formalisation and social protection for gig selfemployed and MSME workers targeted skilling and digital access to expand opportunities for women and rural youth investment in emerging and green economy skills and balanced regional development through service hubs in Tier2 and Tier3 citiesBy positioning the services sector as a purposeful driver of productive highquality and inclusive jobs the report underscores its centrality to Indias employment transition and its pivotal role in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047The reports emphasise the need to deepen digital infrastructure expand skilled human capital foster innovation ecosystems and integrate services across value chains positioning India as a trusted global leader in digital professional and knowledgebased services IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-services-led-growth-becoming-more-balanced-inclusive-niti-aayog-report-645209.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 13:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/great-danger-signal-10-at-kakinada-port-as-cyclone-montha-nears-andhra-pradesh-coast-645213.html Visakhapatnam Oct 28 Great danger signal number 10 was hoisted at Kakinada Port on Tuesday as the severe cyclone Montha in the Bay of Bengal was hurtling towards the Andhra Pradesh coast With the cyclone nearing the coast the Cyclone Warning Centre Visakhapatnam directed authorities to replace danger signal seven with 10 at Kakinada PortThe great danger signal is the highest issued to port in times of severe cyclonesGreat danger signal number nine was hoisted at Visakhapatnam Gangavaram Kalingapatnam and Bheemunipatnam portsGreat danger signal eight was hoisted at Machilipatnam Nizampatnam Krishnapatnam and Vadarevu portsAccording to Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority APSDMA cyclonic storm Montha over the westcentral Bay of Bengal has intensified into a severe cyclone and moved northnorthwestwards with a speed of 12 kmph during the past six hours It lies centred about 160 km from Machilipatnam 240 km from Kakinada and 320 km from VisakhapatnamThe system is being continuously monitored from the Disaster Management Authoritys control roomThe severe cyclone is likely to cross the coast between Kakinada and Machilipatnam tonight At the time of crossing the coast strong cyclonic winds with speeds of 90110 km per hour Due to its impact extremely heavy rainfall is expected from Srikakulam to Nellore with very heavy rainfall in some areasAPSDMA has advised people to stay safe indoorsThe IMD has issued a red alert for coastal Andhra Pradesh It said in a bulletin that scattered heavy to very heavy with extremely heavy rainfall likely to occur at one or two places over Srikakulam Parvathipuram Manyam Vizianagaram Visakhapatnam Alluri Sitharama Raju Anakapalli KakinadaYanam Dr BRAmbedkar Konaseema East Godavari West Godavari Eluru NTR Krishna Guntur Palnadu Bapatla and Prakasam districts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and YanamHeavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur at a few places over Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore Tirupati Annamayya YSR Kadapa and Nandyal districts of Coastal Andhra Pradesh Yanam and RayalaseemaIndian National Centre for Ocean Information Services INCOIS has issued high wave alerts for coastal districtsIt forecasted high waves in the range of 3 47 meters INCOIS has advised small vessels not to ply near shore and to suspend recreational activities Erosionwave surges are possible under the impact of the cyclone IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/great-danger-signal-10-at-kakinada-port-as-cyclone-montha-nears-andhra-pradesh-coast-645213.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/counter-intelligence-wing-of-jampk-cid-saves-two-teenagers-from-terror-trap-645216.html Srinagar Oct 28 The Counter Intelligence Kashmir wing CIK of Jammu and Kashmir CID said on Tuesday that it has saved two teenagers from falling into the trap of terrorism through online radicalisation A statement by the intelligence wing said on Tuesday CIK has foiled an online radicalisation plot and has prevented two teenage boys from falling into the terror trapCIK has once again demonstrated its exceptional professional competence cyber intelligence skills and social outreach capabilities by dismantling a digital radicalisation network operating through multiple social media platformsThe timely operation not only neutralised the propaganda machinery of a terrorist outfit but also safeguarded two impressionable young boys from being recruited into terrorism the statement readActing on precise intelligence inputs and sustained cyber surveillance CIK identified two radical social media handles faithfulwarrior57 and Gurkboru08 engaged in glorifying terrorism and circulating extremist narrativesThese accounts were actively sharing propaganda material including audio clips and digital content of known terrorists designed to sow discord promote secessionist sentiment and attract vulnerable youth toward violent extremismAfter detailed technical analysis the operators of these accounts were identified as Hashim Mashood Lone son of Mashood Ahmad Lone resident of Khawjabagh Maloora aged about 17 years and Mohammad Hazik Ahanger son of Farooq Ahmad Ahanger resident of Railway Colony Nowgam aged about 15 yearsBoth individuals were traced apprehended for questioning and found to be juveniles Digital forensic examination of Hashims mobile device established him as the user of Gurkboru08 and evidence revealed he was disseminating terror content under the direct guidance of an online handlerInvestigations further disclosed that he had been using encrypted communication tools and VPNs to sustain covert interaction with crossborder handlers Subsequent inquiry traced the online handler operating under the alias Saqib real name Ahmad Salar a Pakistanbased propagandist linked to The Resistance Front TRF Salar was orchestrating a sophisticated online indoctrination effort exploiting social media to manipulate vulnerable youth through ideological grooming false promises and glorification of terrorist activities it saidThe second juvenile Hazik operating the handle faithfulwarrior57 was similarly influenced by the same handlerDigital traces revealed instructions emotional manipulation and ideological conditioning intended to draw both minors deeper into extremist networksThrough meticulous coordination superior cyber analytics and swift operational execution CIK successfully disrupted the network effectively preventing the recruitment of two juveniles and thwarting an emerging radicalisation threat that could have endangered community safety the statement readRecognising the social dimension of this threat CIK held joint counselling sessions involving the families of juveniles community elders and local religious scholarsThese sessions aimed to help the youth and their guardians understand the grave repercussions of radicalisation and the importance of responsible digital engagement The initiative underscored CIKs compassionate approach combining operational excellence with social responsibility and strengthened community cooperation against extremist exploitation the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/counter-intelligence-wing-of-jampk-cid-saves-two-teenagers-from-terror-trap-645216.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/through-eci-they-are-conspiring-to-change-the-constitution-cong-rjd-on-sir-20-launch-645220.html New Delhi Oct 28 As the Election Commission of India ECI launched the second phase of Special Intensive Revision SIR of voter lists across 12 States and Union Territories including pollbound Tamil Nadu West Bengal Kerala and Puducherry the Opposition parties including the Congress and Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD on Tuesday accused the government of misusing the ECI to change the Constitution by other means Speaking to IANS Congress MP Pramod Tiwari said What was their slogan inside Parliament outside Parliament and in public rallies Abki Baar 400 Paar Their intention was clear to change the Constitution and take away the voting rights of minorities backward classes and Scheduled Castes When they failed to do that directly they began using the ECI through mechanisms like the NRC Thats why yesterday the ECI could not even specify which caste or religion the names removed from the voter list belonged toCongress spokesperson Surendra Rajput questioned the transparency of the process saying Announcing SIR should be done in a proper and legal manner But in Bihar where it was implemented many questions remain unanswered Even now the Election Commission should clarify how many new voters have been added how many infiltrators votes have been blocked and address all the questions raised by political parties regarding infiltrators How many such names were deleted The public deserves transparencyCongress spokesperson Abhay Dubey echoed similar concerns alleging that the BJP is using the Election Commission for political gainsThe Modi government and the BJP gave the slogan of 400 plus because they wanted to undermine the Constitution framed by BR Ambedkar The people of India stopped them once but now they are trying to achieve their goals through the Election Commission The ECI claimed that the SIR in Bihar was successful but everyone in Bihar knows how voter names were illegally deleted he saidRJD leader and Mahagathbandhans CM face Tejashwi Yadav said This exercise was predecided They had already said they would do it and now they are going ahead with it Nothing surprisingPrashant Kishor founder of the Jan Suraaj Party also reacted and said The BJP can use all the tricks they want remove names intimidate people or harass them But when the public turns against you no SIR or FIR can save youJMM spokesperson Manoj Pandey added India must not allow its rights to be taken away especially fundamental rights like voting This is exactly what the BJP government seems to be attempting It is the duty of every citizen and political party to safeguard these democratic rightsSamajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad said No voter should be left out of the voter list No one should lose the right to vote the most precious right given to us by BR Ambedkar Nothing is more valuable than this IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/through-eci-they-are-conspiring-to-change-the-constitution-cong-rjd-on-sir-20-launch-645220.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/massive-preparations-underway-in-gujarat-for-grand-national-unity-day-celebrations-645226.html Ahmedabad Oct 28 With just days to go for the grand celebration of National Unity Day on October 31 Sardar Vallabhbhai Patels 150th birth anniversary Ekta Nagar in Gujarat is buzzing with extensive preparations To accommodate guests from across the nation the Gujarat government has set up 11 large domes providing full accommodation for more than 9000 visitors including a dedicated dormitory for 1400 police personnelThese domes located near the KoyariGarudeshwar Mamlatdars office come equipped with comfortable bedding charging points secure luggage stands clean bathrooms separate sections for men and women ventilation and fire safety infrastructureIn addition to lodging organisers have planned a fullyintegrated support system A registration counter medical firstaid centre and modern restroom blocks all with continuous water and lightingTo ensure seamless movement parking has been arranged for 174 buses and the entire area is adorned with vibrant fabric decor bright lighting and festive touches creating a welcoming atmosphereThe event will embody Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of Rajya anek rashtra ek samaj anek Bharat ek bhasha anek bhaav ek rang anek tiranga ek many states one nation many communities one India many languages one emotion many colours one TricolourUnder the theme Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat the celebration will feature a grand moving parade at Ekta Nagar modelled on the Republic Day parade in New Delhi showcasing Indias cultural social and regional diversity The parade will include 16 contingents from CAPFs and state police forces such as BSF CRPF CISF ITBP SSB and various state units Medalwinning personnel including the BSFs Operation Sindoor heroes and CRPFs gallantry awardees will also participateAdding to the spectacle ten thematic tableaux from states and union territories including Jammu amp Kashmir Andaman amp Nicobar Islands Puducherry Maharashtra Gujarat Manipur Chhattisgarh and Uttarakhand will display Indias rich achievements and heritageThe parade will also feature nine military and police bands four awardwinning school bands and captivating displays such as the NSGs Hell March Assam Polices Daredevil Motorcycle Show and a dog show by the BSFs Indian breedsThe Prime Minister will offer floral tributes at the Statue of Unity before attending the parade where he will be accorded a Guard of Honour by the CAPF and Gujarat Police contingents Beyond the parade a 15day cultural festival Bharat Parv 2025 will be held from November 1 to 15 celebrating Indias unity in diversity IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/massive-preparations-underway-in-gujarat-for-grand-national-unity-day-celebrations-645226.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-navy-chief-calls-for-collective-maritime-strategy-in-complex-indo-pacific-region-645254.html New Delhi Oct 28 Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on Tuesday emphasised the need for collective cooperative and technologydriven approaches to ensure maritime security in an increasingly complex IndoPacific as he inaugurated the 11th edition of the IndoPacific Regional Dialogue IPRD here  Welcoming over 30 international delegates Admiral Tripathi said the IndoPacifics future must be shaped together through dialogue cooperation and mutual trustThis years theme he noted reflects Indias expanded maritime vision from SAGAR Security and Growth for All in the Region to MAHASAGAR Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions underscoring Indias commitment to a secure and inclusive maritime orderHighlighting what he termed the dynaxity of the maritime environment a blend of dynamism and complexity Admiral Tripathi identified three defining currents commercial disruption transnational turbulence and technological accelerationGlobal seaborne trade growth is projected to drop to 05 per cent in 2025 from 22 per cent in 2024 signalling strategic fragility he said citing the Red Sea crisis as a reminder of how chokepoints can destabilise global supply chainsThe Red Sea crisis has demonstrated how a single maritime chokepoint can ripple across global freight indices insurance premiums and food prices he saidHe also warned against rising illegal fishing trafficking and maritime pollution which threaten livelihoods particularly in Small Island Developing StatesAccording to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation FAO IUU fishing activities are responsible for the loss of 11 to 26 million tonnes of fish each year which is estimated to have an economic value of 10 to 23 billion he saidAt the same time smuggling networks are increasingly exploiting ungoverned maritime spaces and weak enforcement regimes to move narcotics arms and even sanctioned commodities for financing terror networks and fuelling instability ashore he noted adding Rising sea levels extreme weather and marine pollution have added new dimension to transnational maritime challenges threatening both lives and livelihoods especially for Small Island Developing States SIDSOn technology he noted that while AI autonomous systems and satellites are enhancing maritime awareness they also expose vulnerabilities such as GPS jamming and cyber intrusionsAdmiral Tripathi outlined three pillars to navigate maritime dynaxity holistic maritime security capacity building and capability enhancementHe highlighted the Indian Navys initiatives including the Information Fusion CentreIndian Ocean Region IFCIOR in Gurugram which currently hosts 15 international liaison officers and aims to expand to 50 by 2028He also cited Indias collaborative exercises like AIKEYME with African nations and Pacific Reach as well as innovations such as the indigenous NISHARMITRA terminals for secure communicationIndias own experience underscores that capacity building cannot be an insular enterprise It thrives on partnerships through joint design coproduction maintenance collaboration and mutual support in crisis response he saidUnder MAHASAGAR Indias defenceindustrial transformation seeks to extend such cooperation beyond our shores enabling friends and partners to strengthen their maritime presence with indigenous design affordable technologies and sustainable support systems True capacity after all is not what a nation accumulates but what a region aggregates IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-navy-chief-calls-for-collective-maritime-strategy-in-complex-indo-pacific-region-645254.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-welcomes-guru-charan-yatra-says-sikh-gurus-contribution-in-indias-heritage-unforgettable-645255.html Lucknow Oct 28 The Charan Suhawe Guru Charan Yatra of sacred Jode Sahib a profound symbol of the Sikh communitys faith received a rousing welcome in the capital on Tuesday Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath welcomed the Yatra in Lucknow and said that the Guru tradition has given India the ideals of service sacrifice and national protectionHe emphasised that the Sikh Gurus contribution in building Indias heritage has been instrumental and unforgettable and it remains our collective duty to preserve this spiritual heritage and pass on its ideals to future generationsUnion Minister Hardeep Singh Puri was also present on the occasionThe Chief Minister heard the Guruvani during a special ceremony at the Yahiyaganj Gurudwara and honoured the Yatra members by tying turbans on their heads In return the Gurudwara Committee greeted him with a robe and a mementoThe Chief Minister addressing the gathering said The Yatra reconnects people with the glorious Guru tradition that gave India a new direction in culture courage and sacrificeExpressing gratitude to Union Minister Puri CM Yogi said This Yatra began on the occasion of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Maharaj It is not merely a spiritual journey but a moving tribute that inspires renunciation sacrifice and devotion to the nationHe said the Sikh Gurus contribution to Indias eternal tradition is unforgettableFrom Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj and his four Sahibzadas their supreme sacrifices to protect religion humanity and the nation continue to inspire generations the UP CM statedHe added that the Yatra is not just a remembrance of the past but a guiding light for the present and future calling upon all devotees to carry forward this message of national unity and spiritual awakeningNotably the Yatra is associated with the Jode Sahib of the tenth Sikh Guru Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Mata Sahib Kaur both of whom are considered the most sacred emblems of Sikh devotion IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-welcomes-guru-charan-yatra-says-sikh-gurus-contribution-in-indias-heritage-unforgettable-645255.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sardar-patels-150th-birth-anniversary-to-be-celebrated-in-gujarat-with-presence-of-his-descendants-645259.html Ahmedabad Oct 28 IANS The worlds tallest statue the Statue of Unity at Ekta Nagar Kevadia in Narmada district in Gujarat is set to host a historic celebration on October 31 marking the 150th birth anniversary of Indias Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Ekta Nagar on the occasion which will also see the distinguished presence of Sardar Patels descendants adding a personal and historic dimension to the national celebration of unitynbspAmong those attending will be Sardar Patels grandson Gautam Dahyabhai Patel 80 and his wife Dr Nandita Gautam Patel 79 their son Kedar Gautam Patel 47 and his wife Reena Patel 47 Their daughter Karina Kedar Patel 13 who is Sardar Patels greatgreatgranddaughter will also be presentIn addition Sameer Indrakant Patel 68 and Rita S Patel 66 extended family members will join the event to pay their respectsThe gathering of Sardar Patels family across generations at his towering 182metre statue symbolises not only familial pride but also the enduring legacy of national unity and integrity that the Iron Man of India envisioned The presence of his descendants alongside the Prime Minister is expected to make the celebration deeply symbolic a blend of history emotion and patriotismEkta Nagar once a quiet riverside town has transformed into a vibrant symbol of Indias unity and progress With the participation of Sardar Patels family this years celebration promises to be a poignant reminder of the man whose vision and leadership laid the foundation of a united IndiaBorn on October 31 1875 in Nadiad in Gujarat in presentday Kheda district Sardar Patel was trained as a barrister in England he returned to India to practice law in Ahmedabad where he soon became known for his sharp intellect and deep empathy for common peoplePatels leadership in Gujarat first came to prominence during the Kheda Satyagraha of 1918 where he led farmers in protest against unjust tax collection during a famineHis success in negotiating relief from the British marked him as a fearless and pragmatic leader He further cemented his reputation during the Bardoli Satyagraha of 1928 a nonviolent revolt by farmers against increased land revenue https://dailyworld.in/national/sardar-patels-150th-birth-anniversary-to-be-celebrated-in-gujarat-with-presence-of-his-descendants-645259.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/habit-of-imaginary-confusion-bjp-slams-india-bloc-over-sir-20-645260.html New Delhi Oct 28 IANS As the Election Commission of India ECI launched the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision SIR of voter lists in 12 states and Union Territories including pollbound Tamil Nadu West Bengal Kerala and Puducherry BJP on Tuesday criticised the INDIA Bloc saying some people have made it a habit to create imaginary confusion and engage in criminal conspiracy against every reform undertaken in the nations interestThe campaign for purification of voter lists should not turn into any kind of political lynching that is not in the nations interest Some people have now made it a habit to create imaginary confusion and engage in criminal conspiracy against every reform or initiative taken for the countrys welfare BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told IANSHe further added They only try to create confusion spread fear and politicise the process But they will not gain from it The SIR is a legitimate process aimed at purifying voter lists identifying illegal voters and protecting genuine ones This is not the first time such a revision is taking place it is a regular exercise to ensure fairness and transparency in the electoral systemBriefing the media about the voter revision exercise Chief Election Commissioner CEC Gyanesh Kumar on Monday congratulated the polling officials as well as electors for a successful SIR in Bihar and explained in detail the procedure and rationale of undertaking the purification drive from time to timeThe CEC said that since Independence the SIR has been undertaken in the country as many as 8 times between 1951 to 2004 and the last one took place in 2004 He added that political parties have been repeatedly urging it to conduct voter verification to ensure only legitimate voters participate in the electoral processHe said that it is essential to clean the electoral rolls after every few years because of reasons like voter duplication removal of names of those who have either passed away or have permanently shifted out of the pollbound state https://dailyworld.in/national/habit-of-imaginary-confusion-bjp-slams-india-bloc-over-sir-20-645260.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/organisational-rejig-bureaucratic-reshuffle-before-sir-poll-process-viewed-as-part-of-trinamools-2026-gameplan-645261.html New Delhi Oct 28 IANS With Assembly elections expected in West Bengal by MayJune next year every move made by Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress Chairperson Mamata Banerjee will be under public scrutiny Thus the largescale bureaucratic reshuffle carried out by her government hours before the Election Commission announced the Special Intensive Revision SIR of electoral rolls in the country is suspected to be linked with the upcoming pollsnbspAs is the ongoing organisational rejig seen as a move to strengthen a party facing incumbency with alleged corruption indiscipline and infighting sometimes leading to physical altercations charges after about 14andahalf years in powernbspThe administrative order involves hundreds of officers being relocated or reassigned across several districts which the government described as routine claiming that many of them had completed three years at their postings requiring a moveTechnically it is a norm at preventing any single officer from becoming a longterm local power broker But in this case the decision is being considered in certain sections as redeployment of key officials to place administrators with proven loyalty competence or responsiveness in critical districts before the SIR process beginsnbspTrinamool leaders have publicly criticised the Election Commissions decision to conduct SIR in West Bengal arguing the exercise risks wrongful deletion of legitimate voters and could be used to target specific communities for political advantageThey framed the process as politicallymotivated and warned of protests if valid electors were removed They questioned the impartiality of the process and linked the timing of the exercise to heightened political stakes ahead of the 2026 Assembly pollsnbspHowever the poll body clarified that as per law electoral rolls have to be revised before every election or as per requirement where SIR has been done eight times from 1951 till 2004 with the last taking place over two decades ago in 20022004Some changes like frequent migration resulting in voters getting registered at more than one place names of those deceased including fraudulent entry of foreign nationals among other cannot be made in electoral rolls in the usual revision process Such an exercise requires doortodoor visits at the booth levelnbspReports both administrative and media have shown a demographic change in West Bengal especially in districts bordering Bangladesh due to decades of influx through porous borders and alleged political complicityEconomic dominance and population growth among Muslims are allegedly altering local life triggering tensions as was reflected in this years violence in Murshidabad over the Waqf Amendment BillnbspRuling party leaders publicly claim their absolute dominance in such areas with poll results indicating the trend There have been reports of certain immigrants holding voters identity card and participating in the poll process without citizen status Such voters can be identified through the process of SIR though oversight or deliberate interference on ground level cannot be totally ruled outMeanwhile in recent months the Trinamool has undertaken widespread organisational changes at the district level to balance veteran leaders and emerging younger leadersnbspThe reshuffle aims to reduce factionalism impose stricter controls and futureproof the party machinery for securing a fourth term in powernbspThere also appears an attempt at a strategic recalibration from the old vs new debate to a mix of prominent longstanding figures with younger faces in organisational committees and lists of future poll candidatesThe efforts involved restructuring sometimes even abolishing district presidents in favour of small handpicked core committees In Birbhum Kolkata North for example districtlevel leadership has been moved from a single strongman to collective committeesnbspThe partys organisational moves may be viewed as a strategy to recentre control reduce factionalism and improve candidate quality changes expected to influence party decision at considering tickets for the 2026 Assembly polls https://dailyworld.in/national/organisational-rejig-bureaucratic-reshuffle-before-sir-poll-process-viewed-as-part-of-trinamools-2026-gameplan-645261.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cabinet-nod-to-nutrient-based-subsidy-rates-for-rabi-2025-26-on-phosphatic-potassic-fertilisers-645263.html New Delhi Oct 28 The Union Cabinet Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday approved the nutrientbased subsidy rates for Rabi 202526 on phosphatic and potassic fertilisers It approved the proposal of the Department of Fertilisers for fixing the nutrientbased subsidy NBS rates for Rabi Season 202526 from October 1 2025 to March 31 2026 on phosphatic and potassic PampK fertilisersAccording to the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers the tentative budgetary requirement for the Rabi season 202526 would be approximately Rs 3795229 crore approximately Rs 736 crore more than the budgetary requirement for the Kharif season 2025The subsidy including Di Ammonium Phosphate DAP and NPKS Nitrogen Phosphorus Potash Sulphur grades will be provided based on approved rates for Rabi 202526 to ensure smooth availability of these fertilisers to the farmers at affordable pricesIt will help in the availability of fertilisers to farmers at subsidised affordable and reasonable pricesIt will also help rationalisation of subsidy on PampK fertilisers in view of recent trends in the international prices of fertilisers and inputsAccording to the ministry the government is making available 28 grades of PampK fertilisers including DAP to farmers at subsidised prices through fertiliser manufacturersimportersThe subsidy is governed by the NBS Scheme In accordance with its farmerfriendly approach the government is committed to ensuring the availability of PampK fertilisers to the farmers at affordable pricesAccording to the ministry the Centre has decided to approve the NBS rates for Rabi 202526 effective from March 31 2026 on Phosphatic and Potassic PampK fertilisers including DAP and NPKS gradesThe official statement further stated that the subsidy would be provided to the fertiliser companies as per approved and notified rates so that fertilisers are made available to farmers at affordable pricesWith the increase in minimum support prices MSP for various crops announced for the rabi marketing season of 202627 farmers are expected to receive Rs 84263 crore as the governments procurement is estimated at 297 lakh metric tonnes according to an official statement issued earlier this monthMSP payouts to farmers for the governments purchase of foodgrains have more than tripled from Rs 106 lakh crore in 201415 to Rs 333 lakh crore in July 2024 June 2025 while procurement has increased from 76140 lakh metric tonnes to 1175 lakh metric tonnes over the same period benefiting 184 crore farmers IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cabinet-nod-to-nutrient-based-subsidy-rates-for-rabi-2025-26-on-phosphatic-potassic-fertilisers-645263.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-it-sector-expected-to-reach-400-billion-by-2030-amidst-ai-related-disruptions-645264.html New Delhi Oct 28 Indias information technology IT sector is projected to reach 400 billion by 2030 led by firms delivering domainspecific automation that outperforms traditional service models on speed quality and cost a report said on Tuesday The countrys strong talent pool global client trust and cost efficiency will enable it to leverage the increased global demand for AIdriven solutions a report by venture firm Bessemer Venture Partners indicatedAI is automating tasks previously performed by humans and disrupting the billablehour model that supports traditional Indian IT services which makes deep strategic pivots crucial to stay competitive the report notedThe venture firm mentioned that agile AInative challengers are adapting more quickly to such changes than incumbent companiesThree types of fastmoving AIfirst challengers that will disrupt existing models are AIenabled services services built for AI and pure softwareled platforms the report saidThe venture firm forecast that Indias IT services industry will grow with margins intact despite challenges from AIrelated disruptionsIt noted that three years after the launch of ChatGPT Indias IT revenues continue to climb and margins remain surprisingly resilient because uptake of generalpurpose large language models is concentrated in only two sectors technology and media or advertisingIncumbent IT firms continue to play a crucial role in solving complex business problems that are nuanced rather than providing onesizefitsall SaaS deploymentsThe strong balance sheets of these companies further strengthen client confidence Bessemer Venture Partners saidFortune 500 companies still trust that IT services vendors can manage multiyear projects absorb macro shocks and deliver consistent execution the report saidThe market capitalisation of Indias top ten IT firms has more than doubled from 166 billion to 354 billion in the past decade driven by annual revenue growth exceeding 7 per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-it-sector-expected-to-reach-400-billion-by-2030-amidst-ai-related-disruptions-645264.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-smuggler-arrested-gold-valued-more-than-rs-245-crore-seized-645266.html Kolkata Oct 28 The Border Security Force BSF foiled a major gold smuggling attempt across the IndoBangladesh Border by arresting a smuggler and seizing gold worth more than Rs 245 crore from him in the North 24Parganas district of West Bengal A senior BSF official stated that troops of the 145 Bn BSF South Bengal Frontier posted at the Integrated Check Post ICP in Petrapole received intelligence inputs indicating an attempt to smuggle gold from Bangladesh into India and were maintaining a close watch on the movement A BSF vehicle checking party intercepted an inbound empty truck entering India from Benapole Bangladesh A search of the vehicle led to the seizure of two green packets that contained eight gold pieces he said The official stated that the packets contained six gold bars and two biscuits with a total weight of 1974540 grams of gold The gold was valued at nearly Rs 2457907390 During questioning the driver of the vehicle confessed that he had agreed to transport the consignment across the border in his truck for money he saidHe further pointed out that the smuggler along with his truck and the gold has been handed over to the concerned authorities for further legal actionThe official said that the BSF continues its unwavering commitment to preventing crossborder crimes along the IndiaBangladesh border This operation once again underscores the alertness and operational excellence of BSF troops deployed at ICP Petrapole We have strengthened our intelligence network and there is complete coordination between all branches hence the successes he added The official said that the BSFs South Bengal Frontier has made a series of gold seizures over the last few weeks adding that several smugglers have been apprehended and vital information gathered regarding the networks operating along the border While applauding the effort of the troops the official said that they remain committed to protecting the border and stopping all kinds of smuggling he said He urged residents of border areas once again to report any information regarding gold smuggling or other unlawful activities to the Seema Sathi Helpline Number 14419They can also send text or voice messages to the WhatsApp number 9903472227 Those providing credible information would be suitably rewarded and their identity would be kept confidential he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-smuggler-arrested-gold-valued-more-than-rs-245-crore-seized-645266.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-grants-bail-to-man-convicted-of-killing-his-father-645268.html New Delhi Oct 28 IANS The Supreme Court on Monday granted bail to a man convicted of killing his father noting that he has already served nearly five years of his 10year sentence awarded by the Chhattisgarh High CourtnbspnbspA Bench of Justices Manoj Misra and Ujjal Bhuyan passed the order while hearing the petitioners special leave petition SLP challenging his convictionnbspHaving regard to the facts of the case and the period of sentence already undergone we deem it appropriate to suspend the sentence awarded by the High Court during the pendency of this appeal the apex court observedThe case arose from an incident in which the appellant Vijay Thakur allegedly assaulted his father with a wooden stick leading to his death The trial court had convicted him under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code IPC and sentenced him to life imprisonmentnbspHowever the Chhattisgarh High Court in its judgment passed in April last year modified the conviction to one under Section 304 PartI IPC reducing the sentence to 10 years of rigorous imprisonmentAppearing for the petitioner senior advocate Sonia Mathur argued that the accused had already served almost four years and eleven months of his sentence and sought suspension of the remaining period pending appealnbspIt is submitted that by now the appellant has already served almost 5 years 4 years 11 months of the sentence In such circumstances it has been prayed that the sentence awarded to the appellant be suspended and the appellant be released on bail during the pendency of the appeal the order recordedGranting relief the Justice Misraled Bench directed that the appellant be released on bail on such terms and conditions as the trial court may deem fit to impose in the facts and circumstances of the casenbspThe apex court also noted that despite its earlier order directing the lower courts to submit the case records as per the Office Report records are still awaited https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-grants-bail-to-man-convicted-of-killing-his-father-645268.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/notice-to-prashant-kishor-over-dual-voter-registration-in-bengal-and-bihar--645269.html New Delhi Oct 28 IANS Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor has come under scrutiny after reports alleged that his name appears on the electoral rolls of both Bihar and West BengalnbspThe revelation has sparked a fresh political storm in Bihar ahead of the crucial Assembly electionsnbspAccording to a notice issued by the Returning Officer of the 209Karhgar Assembly constituency in Sasaram the matter came to light following a report published in the Indian Express on October 28The report claimed that Kishors name was listed in the electoral rolls of Bengal his address is listed as 121 Kalighat Road which houses the Trinamool Congress office in Bhabanipur Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees assembly constituency while in Bihar he is registered as a voter under the Sasaram parliamentary constituency in the Kargahar assembly constituencynbspThe notice addressed to Prashant Kishor cites Section 17 of the Representation of the People Act 1950 which prohibits a person from being registered as a voter in more than one constituencyIt warns that violation of this provision could lead to legal proceedings and penalties under the same Act which includes oneyear imprisonment or penalties or bothnbspThe document notes that Kishors voter identification number in the Karhgar Assembly constituency is IUJ1323718 corresponding to Part No 621 of the rollsnbspThe Returning Officer has directed him to clarify within three days whether his name is indeed registered in more than one constituencyIn case your name is registered in more than one Assembly constituency kindly confirm and clarify the situation within three days the notice reads adding that failure to do so could attract action as per electoral lawnbspThe controversy comes at a sensitive time with Kishors Jan Suraaj movement expanding its footprint in Bihars political landscapenbspOpposition parties are likely to seize on the issue to question his credibility while Kishors camp has yet to issue an official response https://dailyworld.in/national/notice-to-prashant-kishor-over-dual-voter-registration-in-bengal-and-bihar--645269.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rahul-in-bihar-after-long-absence-to-seek-mandate-from-voters-identified-by-a-process-he-opposes-645270.html New Delhi Oct 28 IANS Almost two months after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi promised an explosive disclosure at the level of dropping a hydrogen bomb he will launch the grand old partys campaign for a poll process that he has been criticising for allegedly benefitting the Bharatiya Janata Party BJPnbspMeanwhile his party workers are yet to collect ingredients required for the revelation while others have been squabbling for a nomination in Bihar Assembly elections where the mandate will come from electors listed in the voters roll prepared by the Election Commission after its Special Intensive Revision SIRSince the Congress leadership published the final list of its candidates they have been on the receiving end of outbursts from disgruntled members whose names did not feature among the list of nomineesnbspEarlier the poll body completed the process of SIR of Bihars voters list and released the final list of electors on September 30 where it claimed there were Zero Appeals as of Monday October 27nbspThe Election Commission has further declared rolling out SIR in another dozen states and Union Territories The decision has in an expected manner triggered sharp political reactions from Opposition parties including the Congress which has again accused the poll body of vote theftAmong the 12 states and Union territories where the next phase of SIR will be held are West Bengal Kerala and Tamil Nadu where elections are expected to be held by MayJune next yearnbspMeanwhile Rahul Gandhis absence from Bihars political landscape has become a focal point of discussion as the state gears up for the November Assembly electionsnbspDespite earlier reports suggesting that he would negotiate seatsharing equations directly with Mahagathbandhan ally Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav the matter was left to the Congress High Commands emissariesInternal rebellion in the state unit by ticket hopefuls were also left to central leaders to address as was the issue of candidates contesting against allies in some constituenciesnbspThe ticket distribution process had escalated into accusations of corruption and favoritism leading to protests and a disconnect between the central leadership and local cadresnbspTill the day of withdrawal of nomination papers for the second phase of the polls on October 23 uncertainty loomed over the Opposition blocs unity Media queries on Rahul Gandhis absence reportedly did not elicit any responseHowever the Oppositions ambitious Voter Adhikar Yatra in August spanning some 1300 km across 25 districts initially did raise enthusiasm among Congress workersnbspThe gap since his last onground appearance has now affected the momentum and confidencenbspMeanwhile top leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi Home Minister Amit Shah and others including Tejashwi Yadav himself have stepped up their respective campaign engagementsSignificantly Tejashwi Yadav had launched a solo journey in some critical districts soon after the joint Voter Adhikar Yatra ended on September 1 that was much acclaimed by his partynbspSince then Rahul Gandhis absence has not only impacted Congresss visibility on the ground but also exposed internal fractures within the party and among Opposition ranksnbspMeanwhile the Congress MP continued to attend to his commitment elsewhere raising more questions Some party leaders have justified his absence owing to the festivities where Rahul is scheduled to hold joint rallies with Tejashwi on October 29 and 30nbspWith phase one polling just days away November 6 questions linger about the effectiveness of this late entry While Congress circulates old clips of Rahul Gandhis yatra to rekindle support the ground reality suggests that presence and timing are critical that the delayed involvement may be more symbolic than strategic https://dailyworld.in/national/rahul-in-bihar-after-long-absence-to-seek-mandate-from-voters-identified-by-a-process-he-opposes-645270.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/habit-of-imaginary-confusion-bjp-slams-india-bloc-over-sir-20-645275.html New Delhi Oct 28 As the Election Commission of India ECI launched the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision SIR of voter lists in 12 states and Union Territories including pollbound Tamil Nadu West Bengal Kerala and Puducherry BJP on Tuesday criticised the INDIA Bloc saying some people have made it a habit to create imaginary confusion and engage in criminal conspiracy against every reform undertaken in the nations interest The campaign for purification of voter lists should not turn into any kind of political lynching that is not in the nations interest Some people have now made it a habit to create imaginary confusion and engage in criminal conspiracy against every reform or initiative taken for the countrys welfare BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told IANSHe further added They only try to create confusion spread fear and politicise the process But they will not gain from it The SIR is a legitimate process aimed at purifying voter lists identifying illegal voters and protecting genuine ones This is not the first time such a revision is taking place it is a regular exercise to ensure fairness and transparency in the electoral systemBriefing the media about the voter revision exercise Chief Election Commissioner CEC Gyanesh Kumar on Monday congratulated the polling officials as well as electors for a successful SIR in Bihar and explained in detail the procedure and rationale of undertaking the purification drive from time to timeThe CEC said that since Independence the SIR has been undertaken in the country as many as 8 times between 1951 to 2004 and the last one took place in 2004 He added that political parties have been repeatedly urging it to conduct voter verification to ensure only legitimate voters participate in the electoral processHe said that it is essential to clean the electoral rolls after every few years because of reasons like voter duplication removal of names of those who have either passed away or have permanently shifted out of the pollbound state IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/habit-of-imaginary-confusion-bjp-slams-india-bloc-over-sir-20-645275.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/80th-un-day-relevance-of-the-united-nations-today-deliberated-at-jindal-varsity-645276.html Sonipat Haryana October 28 The Jindal School of Government and Public Policy JSGP at the OP Jindal Global University JGU organised a seminar on the Relevance of the United Nations on the 80th Anniversary of the signing of the United Nations Charter also known as the San Francisco Treaty The programme of the seminar featured eminent experts from and on the United Nations faculty from the Jindal School of International Affairs JSIA and the JSGP as also scholars and researchers from different schools of the JGUThe keynote speakers were Dr Deodat Maharaj from the UN Technology Hub for Least Developed Countries and Dr Mitali Nikore from Nikore AssociatesIn his opening remarks Prof Dr Naresh Singh urged speakers to focus on the relevance of the United Nations now rather than dwell on the past aloneDean Ramaswamy Sudarshan provided a detailed narrative of the setting within which the United Nations was created its achievements many of which are unsung and its failures most of which are wellknownProf Ambassador Mohan Kumar explained that member countries need to come forth with funds and human resources instead of blaming the organisation whose core ethos and structure had served quite well and BRICS and G20 can play this role buffering against the skewness in membership of the UN Security CouncilDr Maharaj argued that our perspective regarding the relevance of the UN is determined by where the interlocutor is located geographicallyIn the developed countries the UN is often criticised for the failures of the UN Security Council due to the veto power exercised by the P5 countries and disparaged for its shrinking budget and human resource challenges The emerging economies like the BRICS and G20 have a more nuanced view and can contribute funds and human resources for UN Reform but permanent membership of the UNSC is a sticking pointWhen it comes to other less developed countries it is not feasible to develop without a strong role of the United Nations Hence for nearly 60 per cent of the countries in the world the UN is and will continue to be highly relevantDr Nikore provided an account of her own connect with the UN first as a child growing up inspired by the UN and then her initial engagement with UN Women HQ and subsequent ongoing work with a wide variety of UN agencies the World Bank and Asian Development Bank under the umbrella of Nikore AssociatesShe argued that the UN can stay relevant provided it reflects the Global South not only in terms of projects but even more so in its hiring practices at all levels including senior positions in HQs and regional officesShe argued that the diversity in the composition of leadership at all levels and across regions will make the UN more representative of the world today and therefore more relevantProf Veselin Popowski argued that the continued relevance of the UN can be done not only through the reform programmes such as UN80 but also by creating a new UN Charter with a World Parliament which eliminates the temporary gift of the veto power to the victors of World War II and rejuvenates the language and spirit of the UN Charter for young people and future generations in the 21st centuryProf Silvia Bottega argued that the extensive network of experts and projects of the UN and its funds and programmes and specialised agencies cannot be dismantled without damaging the very development trajectory of the world including the countries critical of the UNShe explained that the reform process needs to certainly include UNSC reform but also the reform of the specialised agencies with the required increase in budget and human resources for the agenciesProf Naresh Singh summarised the points made by the speakers and argued that the frame of thinking about development needed to evolve towards addressing complexity and system interdependency and that this change would also make the thinking about the UN more relevant especially given the challenges of climate change inequality and conflictDuring the interactive QampA scholars and researchers in the audience appreciated the insights from the speakers and raised queries regarding UN reform measures the prospects of UNSC reform and new sources of funding and leadership for the UN The perspectives from them included diverse views regarding the UNs continued relevance but found common ground in the discourse of complexity and spiritualityProf Suraj Kumar stated that the relevance of the UN has been questioned and debated since its very inception and that conversation is renewed virtually every decade if not annuallyEleanor Roosevelt the founding persona behind the creation of the UN and the host country role of the United States has described the United Nations as a dream implemented by a bureaucracy The dream is eternally relevant but the bureaucracy has to adapt and reform not only in terms of the UN80 Initiative but also in the mindset of the constituent organisations funds and programmes and specialised agencies and the mindset of UN staffIndia has 28 UN agencies that find it difficult to coordinate and contribute towards common goals and there is a sharp disjunct between international staff and national staff It is time for UN constituent organisations to give up the Ego and Logo and for UN staff to forego their selfdefinition in terms of nationality and see themselves as UN staff first and foremost IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/80th-un-day-relevance-of-the-united-nations-today-deliberated-at-jindal-varsity-645276.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-bulls-trigger-boiling-oil-horror-at-bageshwar-dham-toddler-burned-vendor-injured-645290.html Chhatarpur Oct 28 A threeyearold boy Raghav sustained severe burns when scalding oil accidentally poured over him after two fighting bulls rammed a samosa handcart at Bageshwar Dham in Madhya Pradesh The chaotic incident in Bamitha police jurisdiction also injured the female vendor but authorities have dismissed earlier media claims of a heroic grandmothers intervention Speaking to IANS Bamitha police station incharge and investigating officer Ashish Shrotiya clarified the sequenceThe child was playing near the woman vendors handcart Suddenly two bulls emerged from nowhere locked horns and charged into the cart This toppled the cauldron spilling boiling oil onto Raghav and the lady owner he said He ruled out reports that the boy plunged headlong into the vat or that his grandmother pulled him out suffering hand burns herself Raghavs father Brijraj Vaishnav from Kishangarh in Rajasthans Ajmer district had brought the family including wife and son for darshan at the iconic Balaji Maharaj shrine the office said Postprayers they paused at the bustling stall inside the temple complex where fresh samosas sizzled amid devotional fervour Eyewitnesses recounted the evening turning nightmarish as the stray bulls common in rural temple areas erupted into a territorial brawl around 6 PM scattering pilgrims and upending carts in a ministampede Raghavs cries echoed through the chaos Shrotiya said identifying the injured vendor as 55yearold Lakshmi Devi the handcart owner not the childs grandmother as initially circulated No family member attempted a rescue from the oil the spill occurred purely from the impact Onlookers quickly alerted temple security and an ambulance from the Dhams facility arrived swiftly Both victims were rushed to Chhatarpur District Hospitals burn ward Contradicting earlier grim assessments Shrotiya said Raghavs condition is stable and improving He received prompt treatment full recovery is expected soon Details on Lakshmi Devis injuries remain limited but she is under treatment Speaking to IANS Roshan Dwivedi doctor on duty at Chhatarpur district hospital said The boy is out of danger he did not suffer serious burn injuries It does not seem he plunged into the cauldron The woman is also treated for minor burn injuriesAn official said that police have inspected the site taken statements and launched a probe into potential negligence particularly unsecured animals amid heavy crowds The bulls werent restrained properlylikely agitated by noise Shrotiya noted No arrests have been made but enhanced safety measures including animal control and vendor zoning are under urgent review at the Dham Founded by Dhirendra Krishna Shastri Bageshwar Baba the site draws massive devotees for Hanuman rituals IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mp-bulls-trigger-boiling-oil-horror-at-bageshwar-dham-toddler-burned-vendor-injured-645290.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-industrial-production-clocks-4-per-cent-growth-in-september-645291.html New Delhi Oct 28 Indias industrial production recorded a 4 per cent growth in September this year compared to the same month last year driven by a strong performance in the manufacturing sector according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics on Monday The industrial growth rate based on the Index of Industrial Production IIP had accelerated to 4 per cent in August from a fourmonth high of 35 per cent in July which in turn had surged from 15 per cent in June The 4 per cent growth rate has been maintained in September as wellThe data showed that the manufacturing sector which provides quality jobs for the young graduates passing out of the countrys universities and engineering institutes registered a robust 48 per cent growth in September this year over the same month of the previous year This is higher than the corresponding figure of 38 per cent registered in AugustWithin the manufacturing sector 13 out of 23 industry groups recorded a positive growth in September this year compared to the same month of the previous year The top three positive contributors for the month are Manufacture of basic metals 123 per cent Manufacture of electrical equipment 287 per cent and Manufacture of motor vehicles trailers and semitrailers 146 per centElectricity generation recorded a 31 per cent growth in September while the mining sector proved to be a laggard with a negative growth of are 04 per cent during the monthThe figures on usebased classification show that the production of capital goods which comprise machines used in factories went up by 47 per cent in September over the same month of the previous year This segment reflects the real investment taking place in the economy which has a multiplier effect on the creation of jobs and incomes going aheadThe production of consumer durables such as refrigerators air conditioners and TV sets jumped by a robust 102 per cent during the month reflecting the rise in demand for these products due to rising incomes enabling buyers to improve their living standardsThe infrastructure and construction sector clocked a doubledigit surge for the second month in a row at 102 per cent in September compared with the same month of the previous year on the back of bigticket government projects being implemented in the highways railways and ports sectors IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-industrial-production-clocks-4-per-cent-growth-in-september-645291.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tripura-mlas-delegation-visits-gujarat-legislative-assembly-lauds-advanced-infrastructure-645292.html Gandhinagar Oct 28 A delegation of 11 members including four MLAs from Tripura visited the Gujarat Legislative Assembly on Monday as part of their fiveday study tour of the state which continues until October 31 During their visit the delegates including MLAs Swapna Debbarma Manab Debbarma Ramu Das and Nayan Sarkar were given a detailed briefing by Assembly officials on the functioning of the legislature including the library facilities NeVA National eVidhan Application service centre seating arrangements for members and amenities available to legislatorsTripura MLA Swapna Debbarma expressed admiration for the Gujarat Assemblys stateoftheart infrastructure particularly its modern library and paperless digital systemsShe stated that the insights gained from this visit would help upgrade the Tripura Assemblys library and improve its facilities in the near futureOfficials also guided the delegation through various sections of the Assembly including the press and VVIP galleries and explained how the paperless operations under NeVA have enhanced transparency and efficiency in legislative work Joint Secretary Rita Mehta and Deputy Secretary Dinesh Chaudhary along with other Assembly officials and staff were present during the visitOn the first day of the visit the delegation toured Ahmedabads Sabarmati Riverfront Atal Bridge Iskcon Temple and key areas along Ashram Road Members received an overview of the citys urban planning beautification efforts and infrastructure that have contributed to Ahmedabad being recognised as the worlds first UNESCO World Heritage City Led by MLA Swapna Debbarma the delegation includes members Manab Debbarma Ramu Das and Nayan SarkarThe team praised Gujarats balanced approach to urban development and citizencentric governance noting that the visit provided valuable insights for implementation back home Over the next days the delegation will travel to Somnath Dwarka and PorbandarMahatma Gandhis birthplaceto study Gujarats developmental policies heritage conservation efforts and welfare programmes aimed at improving the quality of life across the stateGujarat has emerged as one of Indias most progressive states driven by a model that blends rapid industrial growth with inclusive social welfare The state government has implemented largescale infrastructure projects such as GIFT City the Sabarmati Riverfront and Dholera Smart City alongside initiatives in renewable energy skill development and egovernance Through programs like Mukhyamantri Amrutam Yojana Mission Mangalam and Kanya Kelavani it focuses on health womens empowerment and education IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tripura-mlas-delegation-visits-gujarat-legislative-assembly-lauds-advanced-infrastructure-645292.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/i-do-not-wish-to-become-karnataka-cm-says-muniyappa-after-being-backed-for-post-by-parameshwara-645299.html Kolar Karnataka Oct 28 Responding to the statement made by Home Minister G Parameshwara that he would be happier if Karnataka Minister for Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs is chosen for the post of Chief Minister KH Muniyappa has clarified that he has no desire to become the Chief Minister We are all bound by the decision of the high command he emphasised on Tuesday The statements have gained significance as Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar is reportedly making efforts to secure the top postThe projection of Muniyappa a seventime Congress MP former Union Minister and prominent Dalit leader as a potential CM candidate had intensified the power tussle within the party With Muniyappa now stating that he has no desire to become Chief Minister and will abide by the high commands decision sources suggest that this development could prove advantageous for Dy CM ShivakumarSpeaking to the media in Kolar on Tuesday Minister Muniyappa said I am happy that Parameshwara has backed my candidature for the CMs post Parameshwara is one of the seniormost leaders in the party He served as the President of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee KPCC and provided good leadershipWe are all committed to the decision of the high command The decision regarding the Chief Ministers post will be made by the high command I cannot simply say or declare that I am ready for the CMs post I have no wish to become the Chief Minister Muniyappa reiteratedHe further stated that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will continue in office for five years and that there are no changes in leadership at present He played a key role in bringing the Congress party to power in the state There are many capable leaders including State Congress President and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar who are eligible for the post he saidHowever every day attempts are being made to create confusion We will not take any decision on changing the Chief Minister he addedAmid the ongoing leadership row Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara had stated that he would be happy if senior party leader and Minister for Food KH Muniyappa who hails from the Dalit community becomes the Chief Minister of Karnataka Parameshwara further said that Muniyappa a seventime MP is an efficient leaderParameshwara had said Muniyappa has been elected as MP seven times from the Congress party It is not easy to win seven times He is a senior leader and a former Union Minister He is efficient If Muniyappa is made the Chief Minister I will be happySince we belong to the same community I will naturally be happy if our community gets an opportunity The community that has long been suppressed and exploited if it comes to power wont we be happier In this context Muniyappa is efficient and if he is made the Chief Minister I will be happy Parameshwara added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/i-do-not-wish-to-become-karnataka-cm-says-muniyappa-after-being-backed-for-post-by-parameshwara-645299.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/six-tourists-injured-in-road-accident-in-jampks-sonamarg--645300.html Srinagar Oct 28 Six were injured in a road accident in the Sonamarg hill station of Jammu and Kashmirs Ganderbal district on Tuesday officials said The tourists were injured in a collision between two vehicles on the SrinagarLeh national highway near the hill station in GanderbalThe accident occurred when two minibuses collided with each other causing injuries to six occupants including the driver of a minibus The injured were initially shifted to the Primary Health Centre PHC Sonamarg for immediate medical aid where attending doctors referred two of them for specialised treatment to superspecialty SKIMS hospital in Srinagar an official saidThose injured have been identified as Pawan 20 son of Chuni Lal Dhruv 22 son of Samsar Chand Vishaka 34 wife of Prasad Ashish 17 son of Chuni Lal driver Chamail Singh son of NK and Ujwal daughter of Narinder Kumar all residents of Udhampur Jammu the official said adding that police has registered a case in this incidentRash and negligent driving road rage overloading and overspeeding are the major causes of road accidents in the hilly areas of JampKThe Traffic Department has deployed special squads to check these and stringent punishment is given to offendersIn their widely publicised warnings the regional transport officers RTOs have said that cancellation of driving licences and registration certificates is the penalty for repeat offenders of traffic rulesIf a vehicle is driven by a minor the parents can be imprisoned in addition to the cancellation of registration certificates of such vehiclesIn their directives the Traffic Department has advised refilling stations not to sell petrol to motorcyclescooter drivers without helmetsThe hilly districts of Doda Kishtwar Ramban and Reasi are often in the news for fatal road accidents resulting in the loss of precious lives of travellersThe common citizens are blaming the authorities for being lenient to offenders of traffic rules as violations of traffic rules have been very common in JampK during the last 20 yearsStunts performed on roads by bikers is another menace that the Traffic Department officials are facing in JampK IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/six-tourists-injured-in-road-accident-in-jampks-sonamarg--645300.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-peace-meeting-on-rss-foot-march-in-chittapur-ends-without-consensus-645302.html Bengaluru Oct 28 The peace meeting convened by the Kalaburagi district administration on Tuesday to resolve the dispute over the proposed Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS foot march in Chittapur town represented by Minister Priyank Kharge ended without any consensus among participating organisations The meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Fauzia Taranum and Superintendent of Police Adduru Srinivasulu was held following directions from the Karnataka High Court which had asked the government to facilitate discussions and submit a report on the issue by October 30Authorities allowed three representatives from each of the 11 organisations including the RSS and several community groups to participate The session aimed to resolve the matter amicably as multiple groups had sought permission to hold processions and foot marches in Chittapur on November 2 the same day the RSS proposed to conduct its centenary marchDalit organisations said they would withdraw their applications only if the RSS agreed to carry the national flag and the Constitutions Preamble instead of lathis and the Bhagwa Dhwaj during the foot marchSources said the meeting witnessed strong differences of opinion among participants with several organisations expressing opposition to holding simultaneous processions in the same town Despite the district administrations efforts to reach a middle ground the talks failed to produce an agreement forcing officials to prepare a detailed report for submission to the High CourtFollowing the meeting tensions briefly escalated as members of a few organisations staged protests and slogans were raised However the situation was brought under control with the intervention of the policeThe peace meeting followed the Dharwad Bench of the High Courts earlier direction to the government to conduct the discussion and report on the outcome The bench while hearing a batch of petitions on Friday had sought the governments response before taking up the matter again on October 30The RSS had approached the High Court challenging the denial of permission by the district authorities to conduct its centenary foot march in Chittapur The court had subsequently directed the organisation to file a fresh application for permission to hold the event on November 2Following this several other organisations including the Bhim Army Dalit Panthers Kuruba community groups and others also submitted applications to organise processions and marches on the same date prompting security concerns in the districtThe High Court bench headed by Justice M Nagaprasanna had earlier observed that the matter should not be prolonged and must be settled amicably through administrative dialogue The court also advised the government to treat the issue as an opportunity to demonstrate administrative efficiency and uphold law and orderThe Deputy Commissioner is now expected to submit a comprehensive report on the peace meeting and the district administrations position before the High Court by October 30Meanwhile the police have maintained heightened vigilance in Chittapur and neighbouring areas ahead of the scheduled date of the foot march Senior officers said adequate arrangements are being made to ensure peace and prevent any untoward incidentsThe case will next be heard by the Kalaburagi Bench of the Karnataka High Court on October 30 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-peace-meeting-on-rss-foot-march-in-chittapur-ends-without-consensus-645302.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-mp-surya-meets-dy-cm-shivakumar-discusses-bengaluru-tunnel-project-traffic-congestion-645303.html Bengaluru Oct 28 BJP National Yuva Morcha President and Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya met Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar who also holds the Bengaluru Development portfolio at his residence in Bengaluru on Tuesday to discuss the Tunnel Road Project and traffic congestion in the city The meeting has drawn attention as Dy CM Shivakumar had earlier described Tejasvi Surya as an empty vessel and remarked that he is busy posting on social media without doing any real workChief Minister Siddaramaiah too had commented that Tejasvi Surya does not represent the sun Surya but represents Amavasya new moonAccording to the office of the Deputy Chief Minister Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya met Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar at his Sadashivanagar residence on Tuesday and held discussions regarding measures to ease Bengalurus traffic congestionThe office of Tejasvi Surya stated that two presentations were made to the Dy CM during the meeting one on Decongesting Bengaluru and another on Why Tunnel Road is Not the SolutionUnder the Decongesting Bengaluru topic the presentation highlighted the current approach of the government It stated As cities worldwide shift to peoplefirst mobility Bengaluru remains trapped in a carfirst modelThe key issues identified were overreliance on road expansion leading to induced demand lack of first and lastmile connectivity carcentric infrastructure fragmented planning across agencies lack of administrative support for key institutions and delays in project executionSurya also presented a comparison of the efficiency ratio between tunnel roads and the Metro system The Metro carries more than 40 times the number of people for the same investment Tunnel roads increase Vehicular Kilometres Travelled VKT resulting in more vehicles and exponentially higher emissions The Metro moves people efficiently as a mass public transport system whereas tunnel roads move vehicles and prioritise car users Surya statedHe further added that VKT decreases with Metro systems but increases with tunnel roads The Metro is cleaner quieter and reduces emissions while the tunnel project is polluting and energyintensive he notedTejasvi Surya proposed several recommendations to address Bengalurus mobility challenges These included Improving execution efficiency of existing solutions adopting a Move People Not Vehicles policy prioritising public transport promoting integration over silos and following the principle that the pedestrian is king not motor vehicles IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-mp-surya-meets-dy-cm-shivakumar-discusses-bengaluru-tunnel-project-traffic-congestion-645303.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 18:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/global-level-mumbai-climate-week-to-be-held-in-feb-2026-maha-cm--645315.html Mumbai Oct 28 IANS Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday announced that India will host the inaugural edition of Mumbai Climate Week MCW in February 2026nbspMumbai Climate Week aims to become a major platform for climate action across the Global South with India taking a leadership role The event will bring together the best minds from across the Global South to find practical solutions for our climate challenges said the Chief MinisternbspHe added that this platform will help developing nations work together and make their voices heard on the global stagenbspThe Chief Minister joined by leading climate experts shared details of the event saying that representatives from more than 30 countries are expected to participatenbspnbspThey will come to Mumbai to create a practical climate action plan working with city leaders state chief ministers civil society groups corporates students and young people he saidThe Chief Minister added that by bringing together governments businesses startups academia civil society indigenous communities youth and citizen groups the event aims to foster an ecosystem of shared purposenbspnbspThrough diverse expertise and realworld experience Mumbai Climate Week will help shape a just sustainable and resilient future for the Global South while amplifying its voice on the global stage said the Chief MinisterFadnavis added that the event showcases Indias resolve to lead with action adding that inspired by the vision set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi Mumbai and Maharashtra are ready to help shape a just innovative wellfunded climate future for the Global SouthnbspThe inaugural edition of Mumbai Climate Week will focus on three connected themes food systems energy transition and urban resiliencenbspnbspEach theme will be examined through the lenses of justice innovation and funding This ensures that the MCW platform addresses both climate adaptation and mitigation strategiesnbspImportantly the platform will bring together not just policymakers and experts but also give a voice to citizens and grassroots initiativesnbspTopics like mental health art spirituality sports and cinema will be included in the weeks activities A climatefocused food festival is also being planned as part of public engagementnbspnbspIn the leadup to the event in February various preparatory activities will help identify and improve solutions for showcasing These include crossstakeholder working groups innovation mapping exercises calls for applications workshops roundtables and conferencesnbspThe February event will use a unique hubandspoke format with the main event scheduled for February 17 to 19 https://dailyworld.in/national/global-level-mumbai-climate-week-to-be-held-in-feb-2026-maha-cm--645315.html Tue, 28 Oct 2025 22:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/behind-pakistans-civilian-facade-asim-munirs-deep-state-consolidation-of-power-645121.html New Delhi Oct 27 In July this year rumours were rife that Pakistans Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir was planning a coup to overthrow the government However Munir refrained from doing so as he was aware that had he done so there would have been international pressure on him to restore democracy When General Pervez Musharraf ousted Nawaz Sharif and installed himself as the President of Pakistan there was immense pressure on him to restore democracy Asmi Munir appears to have learnt from that and has instead decided to control the country entirely by himself while also having a puppet Prime Minister and President in placeThe Pakistani Army Chief is gradually bringing in people from both his family and the army into the administrative division of the country This would ensure that he gets to control the country both on the civilian as well as the military sideMunir first ensured that Imran Khan was removed from power and then jailed The biggest threat that the Army Chief faced was from Imran Khan and hence he made sure that he was out of the way Following this he installed Asif Ali Zardari as the President and Shehbaz Sharif as the Prime Minister Both are currently puppets in the hands of Asim MunirThe second step was installing his blueeyed boy General Asim Malik as the ISI chief and also handing him the additional charge of National Security Advisor Now Munir has transferred his nephew Captain Syed Abu Rehman Bin Qasim from the armed forces to the civil services Along with his nephew Munir also transferred nine other Pakistan army officials to the civil services This is a clear sign that Munir wants his men in every possible department in Pakistan so that he can control everything virtuallyAn official said that this gives Munir more power to control the system while also showing the world that Pakistan is technically a democracy Transferring his nephew to serve in the Prime Ministers office gives Munir the scope to keep a close watch on Shehbaz SharifMunir also plans to appoint his stooges in the interior ministry high commissions and embassies This would give him direct access to the administrative side of the countryIntelligence Bureau officials indicate that Munirs nephew would eventually be transferred to head an embassy either in the US or India This would also give Munir complete control over intelligencerelated operations abroad However for Munir having control over Intelligence operations is not the priority since the ISI chief is his stooge These moves are just ways of asserting himself over everything that Pakistan is concerned withThe PM or President would continue to remain in office These would just be symbolic positions just to show the world that a democracy still exists in Pakistan An official explains that all these are moves being made because Munir is extremely insecure about his position The very fact that he got Sharif to promote himself to the rank of Field Marshal despite being embarrassed during Operation Sindoor itself was a sign of his insecurityFurther Munir is repeatedly facing embarrassment at the hands of the TehreekeTaliban Pakistan TTP Balochistan Nationalist Army BLA and the Afghan Taliban He fears that a military coup could upstage him as the soldiers are very unhappy with his administration Many soldiers are already disobeying his orders and in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP they are refusing to fight against the TTP at least in the tribal beltsThese developments also come against the backdrop of tensions escalating between the GHQ and the government These tensions arose due to the extension that Munir is seeking as the Army ChiefThe government says that he can remain Army Chief until 2027 but Munir has asserted that he wants to remain in the top position until 2030 This has made several within the army unhappy especially those who are waiting to be elevated as the next Army ChiefMunir has already changed some top corps commanders to ensure that there would be no seniority issues All these developments have made Munir very shaky and insecure and hence he is taking control over the Intelligence Army and now the administration IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/behind-pakistans-civilian-facade-asim-munirs-deep-state-consolidation-of-power-645121.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/congress-infighting-parameshwara-backs-minister-muniyappa-for-ktaka-cm-post-645123.html Bengaluru Oct 27 Amid the ongoing leadership dispute Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has said that he would be happy if senior party leader and Minister for Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs KH Muniyappa who comes from the Dalit community becomes the Chief Minister Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Monday Parameshwara said Muniyappa a seventime MP is an efficient leaderMuniyappa has been elected as MP seven times from the Congress party It is not easy to win seven times He is a senior leader and a former Union Minister He is efficient If Muniyappa is made the Chief Minister I will be happySince we belong to the same community I will naturally be happy if our community gets an opportunity The community that has long been suppressed and exploited if it comes to power wont we be happier In this context Muniyappa is efficient and if he is made the Chief Minister I will be happy Parameshwara added Parameshwara also hails from the Dalit community When asked about the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle Parameshwara said I dont know anything about it as we cannot make statements on decisions that rest with the high command Let us wait for their decision Making statements to the media will only create confusion Has anyone from the high command said anything We have absolutely no information from themWe can react only if there is any communication from the high command regarding cabinet reshuffle leadership change or other developments Any statements made by us have no significance unless they come from the high command he saidNo matter who makes such statements unless they come from the high command they carry no value he reiteratedThe high command will consider everything and make decisions accordingly First there were talks about powersharing now there is talk of a cabinet reshuffle Such daily confusion only affects governance If governance has to improve this must stop and the focus should return to administration Parameshwara saidThere has been flooding in North Karnataka and Bengaluru There are also concerns about road infrastructure and the pothole menace If we want to address these complaints we need to focus more on governance he addedSpeaking about various statements by Congress leaders on cabinet reshuffle and leadership Parameshwara said You all know who makes the decisions in the Congress party If a few people in Karnataka make statements in this regard it will not make any difference The high command will think and analyse There are elections in Bihar now after that if there is a need the high command will take appropriate actionThese statements have gained significance amid the leadership row within the ruling Congress party Recently Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs son and MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah stirred controversy by projecting Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi as the successor to CM Siddaramaiah IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/congress-infighting-parameshwara-backs-minister-muniyappa-for-ktaka-cm-post-645123.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vijay-meets-families-of-karur-stampede-victims-assures-support-645125.html Chennai Oct 27 Actor and TVK President C Joseph Vijay on Monday met the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic Karur stampede incident and expressed his heartfelt condolences The meeting took place at a private resort in Mamallapuram where the families had been brought by party functionariesDuring the emotional interaction Vijay personally spoke to each bereaved family assuring them that he would bear the complete expenses related to the education and medical needs of their surviving family membersI stand by you in this difficult time Your pain is mine too Vijay was quoted as saying during the meetingThe meeting marks Vijays first direct interaction with the families since the September 27 stampede during his public rally at KarurThe tragedy occurred amid a massive crowd surge during the TVK campaign claiming the lives of 41 people including several women and childrenThe incident sent shockwaves across the state drawing widespread criticism from political circles and the publicFollowing the tragedy Vijay had initially planned to visit Karur to personally meet the families and offer condolences However the plan was reportedly shelved due to security concerns To ensure the meeting could take place in a secure and comfortable environment TVK organisers decided to bring the families to Chennai insteadAround 38 families were transported in private buses while a few others arrived by flightTVK sources said the meeting at the Mamallapuram resort was kept private and attended only by close party aidesHe wanted to ensure that the families received his condolences directly and that their immediate needs were taken care of said a senior party functionaryThe Karur stampede had led to intense scrutiny over the conduct of political rallies and crowd management practicesThe Madras High Court and the Supreme Court have since been monitoring investigations into the incidentVijays gesture on Monday though longawaited was seen as a significant move to reach out to grieving families and reaffirm his responsibility as both a political leader and a public figure IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vijay-meets-families-of-karur-stampede-victims-assures-support-645125.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/all-leaders-make-announcements-but-i-get-work-done-tej-pratap-slams-tejashwi-yadavs-promises-645131.html New Delhi Oct 27 National President of the Janshakti Janata Dal Tej Pratap Yadav on Monday reacted sharply to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadavs promises saying that while all leaders make announcements it is he who has the ability to actually get the work done Speaking to IANS Tej Pratap Yadav said All leaders make announcements but it is Tej Pratap Yadav who has the ability to actually get them done Go and see the medical college we have built I dont care what other leaders claimTej Pratap also highlighted the challenges faced by the people of Bihars Mahua saying The people are distressed and worried they need employment Here who will become the Chief Minister depends on the people The people decide whoever they give power to the Jan Shakti Janata Dal will establish itself hereI have worked a lot in Mahua Earlier people used to visit Patna for medical treatment but now the situation has changed they get treatment here in Mahua itself I have worked for their betterment The people here want work they want employment but they do not get itHe also spoke about infrastructure development in the region stating There were no proper roads in Mahua We have worked on development including starting the work to open a medical college Roads will also be built and we will winTej Pratap Yadavs remarks underline his focus on grassroots development and public service portraying a contrast to leaders who according to him operate from comfort and make unfulfilled promisesEarlier on Sunday Tejashwi Yadav the RJD leader and the Mahagathbandhans chief ministerial face held a press conference announcing several welfare measures including doubling the allowance for Panchayat and Gram Kachahri representatives and introducing pension schemes for former membersTejashwi Yadav also said that the Mahagathbandhan only seeks 20 months from the people of Bihar to prove that positive change is possibleYadav accused the NDA government of corruption unemployment and industrial neglect saying The people of Bihar are ready for change They gave 20 years to the NDA now give us 20 monthsThe Bihar Assembly elections are scheduled for November 6 and 11 with the results to be announced on November 14 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/all-leaders-make-announcements-but-i-get-work-done-tej-pratap-slams-tejashwi-yadavs-promises-645131.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-issues-notices-to-all-states-uts-in-suo-moto-case-on-digital-arrest-scams-645135.html New Delhi Oct 27 IANS The Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to all states and Union Territories in the suo moto case concerning the rising menace of digital arrest scams where fraudsters impersonate police and judicial officers using forged court orders to extort money from citizensnbspA Bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi directed all state governments to submit details of First Information Reports FIRs registered in connection with such scams and remarked We are not issuing directions today We are issuing notice to the States to ensure there is a uniform investigationThe Justice Kantled Bench added that digital arrest scams appeared to be panIndia or even crossborder in nature as it suggested that the investigation be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation CBInbspThere are more than one instances that have taken place in different parts We are inclined to entrust the matter to the CBI in respect of all the States because this is a kind of crime which may be operating panIndia or even across the border the apex court remarkednbspAppearing for the Union of India Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the top court that the CBI was already investigating several similar cases with technical assistance from the Cyber Crime Division of the Union Ministry of Home AffairsThe Attorney General for India R Venkataramani apprised the Justice Kantled Bench that the moneylaundering networks behind such scams were often based outside India operating from countries such as Myanmar and ThailandnbspThere are money laundering gangs located outside our territory in many parts of Asia including Myanmar and Thailand said AG VenkataramaninbspDuring the hearing the Haryana government which had earlier been issued notice informed the Supreme Court that two FIRs had been registered by Ambalas Cyber Crime Branch and that it had no objection if the investigation was transferred to the CBIThe Justice Kantled Bench allowed Haryanas request for one weeks time to file additional details on other related FIRsnbspBeside the two FIRs there are some more FIRs pertaining to similar crimes in Haryana AAG seeks and is granted one week time to furnish the details of those FIRs the order saidnbspThe apex court directed all other states and Union Territories to furnish details of similar FIRs registered within their jurisdictions clarifying that no formal counteraffidavits were required at this stageWe issue notice to all the States and UTs with a direction that let details of FIRs registered in their respective states pertaining to the nature of cyber crime relating to digital arrest be furnishednbspIn this regard no formal counteraffidavit is required to be filed and only details of cases may be brought on record it orderednbspThe matter will be taken up next after the state governments file their responses https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-issues-notices-to-all-states-uts-in-suo-moto-case-on-digital-arrest-scams-645135.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/patna-gears-up-for-chhath-mahaparva-78-ghats-60-artificial-ponds-ready-for-devotees-645146.html Patna Oct 27 The bathing ghats of Ganga and ponds in Bihars capital Patna are all set for the grand celebration of Chhath Mahaparva the festival of devotion and purity dedicated to Surya Sun god and Chhathi Maiya The first Arghya offering to the setting Sun will be performed on Monday evening under the Purvashada constellation while the second Arghya will be offered to the rising Sun on Tuesday morning during the Uttarashada constellation This year devotees in Patna City will offer prayers at 78 ghats with 60 artificial ponds also prepared to ensure smooth conduct of rituals and to prevent overcrowding at the Ganga ghatsAccording to Pandit Ram Narayan Shastri it is considered auspicious to offer prayers to the setting Sun half an hour before sunset and to the rising Sun just after it turns redOn Tuesday morning auspicious yogas such as Ubhayachar and Amalakriti will further enhance the significance of the festivalOn Sunday the second day of the Chhath festival devotees observed the Kharna Puja with devotion and reverenceAfter sunset they consumed prasad ritual food offering made of uncooked rice Ganga water milk jaggerybased kheer flat bread and bananas served on banana leavesThis marked the beginning of their 36hourlong waterless fastThe Patna district administration has made elaborate arrangements for security and crowd management and as many as 187 Bluetoothenabled cameras have been installed at 35 major ghats to ensure realtime monitoring of the situationOverall Chhath celebrations are being observed at 550 ghats across the district representing the traditions of 444 communitiesMedical teams including physicians and health researchers have been stationed at all primary health centres in both urban and rural areas to handle any medical emergenciesAcross Bihar a wave of devotion and enthusiasm can be seenThe Deo Surya Temple in Aurangabad and the Ular Sun Temple in Patna district are witnessing heavy footfallIn total arrangements have been made at 8500 Chhath ghats statewideSpecial instructions have been issued to the National Disaster Response Force NDRF and State Disaster Response Force SDRF who are deployed at sensitive locations to ensure devotees safetyThe Patna Municipal Corporation has also taken charge of cleaning lighting barricading dangerous ghats and setting up medical campsAuthorities have appealed to devotees to remain cautious secure their belongings and avoid unsafe or slippery areas near the riverbanks IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/patna-gears-up-for-chhath-mahaparva-78-ghats-60-artificial-ponds-ready-for-devotees-645146.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/former-cricket-captain-srikkanth-makes-maiden-visit-to-mahakaleshwar-645147.html Ujjain Oct 27 Former Indian cricket captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth participated in the worldfamous Bhasma Aarti at Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple in Ujjain on Monday morning He had travelled specially from Chennai to offer prayers to Lord Mahakal for the happiness peace and prosperity of people in India and across the world This was Srikkanths maiden visit to the revered shrineAccompanied by his family and friends he took part in the sacred ritual conducted by priests who performed the traditional worshipDeeply moved by the experience Srikkanth said The darshan of Lord Mahakal and the Bhasma Aarti was truly amazing Our entire family feels blessed to be part of this divine moment Everything will happen good for everyone in India and the worldHe also commended the temple management for the extensive arrangementsShri Mahakaleshwar Temple one of the twelve Jyotirlingas is globally known for its unique Bhasma Aarti which begins around 4 am every day and involves offering ashes to Lord ShivaOnline booking is mandatory for darshan particularly for the Bhasma Aarti The recent opening of the second phase of the Mahakal Lok Corridor has significantly improved facilities for devoteesSrikkanths spiritual visit coincided with the beginning of the first Sawari of Kartik Maas on October 27 allowing devotees two opportunities for darshan during the dayThe former cricket openers presence added a touch of celebrity devotion to the sacred occasion drawing attention to the temples growing appeal among public figuresIn a separate development following a recent clash among priests at the temple a threemember committee has been formed The involved priests have been barred from using the VIP gallery for a few daysCCTV cameras will now monitor access to the gallery to ensure proper usage and verify referencesMeanwhile Kartik Agahan Sawari which is the ceremonial procession of Lord Mahakal is also starting on Monday The procession held annually on the second Monday of the Kartik Hindu month will feature the deity in five divine forms carried through the streets of the temple town IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/former-cricket-captain-srikkanth-makes-maiden-visit-to-mahakaleshwar-645147.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sensex-nifty-end-higher-as-us-china-deal-hopes-boost-sentiment-645148.html Mumbai Oct 27 IANS Indian stock markets started the week on a positive note on Monday recovering after a brief pause in the previous sessionnbspInvestors turned optimistic as hopes grew for a potential trade deal between the United States and ChinanbspThe Sensex climbed 56696 points or 067 per cent to close at 8477884 while the Nifty gained 1709 points or 067 per cent to settle at 2596605nbspThe Nifty started on a strong note and remained mostly sideways throughout the day ahead of the NSE FampampO expiry Sentiment continues to remain strong as the index sustains above the breakout point analysts saidOn the lower end support is placed at 25700 below which weakness might emerge On the higher end resistance is seen at 26000 a decisive move or close above this level could trigger a rally towards 26500 in the short term they addednbspThe rally came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessen said on Sunday that President Trumps proposed 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese goods were off the tablenbspHe added that China is likely to increase its soybean imports and delay restrictions on rare earth exports a move that further boosted global market confidenceSofterthanexpected inflation data from the US also lifted sentiment with markets now expecting two more interest rate cuts in 2025nbspAmong major gainers on the Sensex were Bharti Airtel State Bank of India and Eternal each rising more than 2 per centnbspOn the other hand Kotak Mahindra Bank Bharat Electronics Infosys Bajaj Finance and others were among the top laggards of the dayBroader markets also moved higher with the Nifty MidCap index rising 093 per cent and the Nifty SmallCap index gaining 082 per centnbspSectorwise PSU Bank Realty Metal and Oil ampamp Gas indices advanced over 1 per cent each while Media and Pharma stocks saw some profit booking https://dailyworld.in/national/sensex-nifty-end-higher-as-us-china-deal-hopes-boost-sentiment-645148.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tejashwi-trying-to-appease-muslims-with-waqf-act-remarks-kiren-rijiju-645151.html New Delhi Oct 27 IANS Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday lashed out at RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav over his remarks on the Waqf Amendment Act saying that he lacks maturity and is making such statements merely to appease the Muslim community ahead of the Bihar Assembly electionsnbspTejashwi Yadav the Mahagathbandhans chief ministerial face in Bihar had earlier said that if his government is formed he would scrap the Waqf ActI want to tell you that when I become the CM Tejashwi will throw the Waqf Board law bill into the dustbin When I become the CM every Bihari will become CM meaning Chinta Mukt free from worries Bihar today lacks good colleges education is poor poverty is high and migration continues My only dream is to make Bihar number one he said attacking the ruling NDA for what he called 20 years of stagnationReacting sharply to this Kiren Rijiju in an interview with IANS said Its surprising that Tejashwi Yadav claims to be the Chief Minister and doesnt know the basic fact that a state government cannot overturn any law passed by Parliament He does not know the Constitution How can he talk like thisRijiju said that people across the country including in Bihar are watching Yadavs remarksThe people of Bihar and the entire country are watching laughing that a person who calls himself a Chief Minister candidate doesnt even know that he will throw a Parliamentary Act into the dustbin if he becomes Chief Minister he saidAccusing Yadav of being desperate for power the Union Minister said What kind of language is he using First I think Tejashwi is not mature and lacks knowledge Second he is so desperate for power that he will say anything To gain Muslim votes will he say he will throw the Waqf Act into the dustbin How can he say such a thingResponding to a question about whether any state government can deny implementation of a law passed by Parliament Rijiju who also holds the Minority Affairs portfolio clarified that no state has such authorityAny law passed by Parliament applies to the entire country and no one can remove the power granted by the Constitution he assertedHitting out at the Opposition for dynastic politics Rijiju said Can Tejashwi Yadav and Rahul Gandhi explain that if they dont obey laws passed by Parliament if they dont obey what the Supreme Court has cleared then do they not obey Parliament the Supreme Court or Indian democracy The children of these few families consider themselves above the law above the Constitution above Parliament But the country and the people are watchingThe Union Minister also accused the Opposition of engaging in appeasement politics ahead of the Bihar Assembly electionsFor decades Congress and RJD have ruled by doing Muslim appeasement by deceiving and misleading Muslims Now Muslims have understood this and gradually they all will But a large section is still being controlled by some people who are trying to create a vote bank by misleading them by intimidating them and by using the BJP as a pretext he saidRijiju added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi the entire nation including Muslims will progressGradually Muslims will also understand that the country will progress only because of PM Modi Under PM Modis leadership not just Muslims but everyone whether minority or majority will be safe in India Everyone knows this and Muslims have also come to understand this to a large extent he said https://dailyworld.in/national/tejashwi-trying-to-appease-muslims-with-waqf-act-remarks-kiren-rijiju-645151.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/hm-shah-kicks-off-bjps-campaign-for-maha-local-body-polls-pitches-for-triple-engine-govt-645152.html Mumbai Oct 27 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday sounded the bugle for the upcoming local and civic body polls in Maharashtra asking the party workers to secure an emphatic victory over the opposition to ensure a triple engine government in the statenbspIn Maharashtra the BJPled NDA has been victorious three times and Devendra Fadnavis has become the Chief Minister for the third time Maharashtra currently has a doubleengine government However I am not satisfied with just that we want a tripleengine government The party must fight the upcoming local and civic body elections with full strength defeating the opposition which will not even be visible through binoculars HM Shah said while addressing BJP workers after laying the foundation stone of the Maharashtra BJP units new office in South MumbaiHome Minister Shah recalled that after the BJPs alliance with the undivided Shiv Sena broke ahead of the 2014 polls the party fought independently and emerged as the singlelargest formation to form a government under CM Devendra Fadnavis Since then he said Fadnavis has held the Chief Ministers post three times and the BJP once ranked fourth in the state has now emerged as Maharashtras principal political forceI am happy that the BJP has not only grown stronger in Maharashtra but has also remained true to its ideology and traditions Today the BJP stands on its own strength and not on political crutches Just as the BJP holds an indelible place in the politics of India it has now become a strong signature in Maharashtras political arena he notedThe Home Minister also underlined the historical significance of the plot where the new headquarters is coming upThis is the land Mumbai where the Jan Sangh merged into the Janata Dal leading to the birth of the BJP As Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji said Andhera chhatega kamal khilega darkness will fade and the lotus will bloom he saidHome Minister Shah said the BJP takes pride in seeing Narendra Modi lead the nation as Prime Minister for the third consecutive termWe have proven that familyrun parties can no longer dominate Indian politics It is performancebased politics that will take the nation forward A child born in a humble teasellers family rose through dedication sacrifice and hard work to become the Prime Minister A party that cannot uphold democracy within its own organisation can never protect democracy in the country This is our message to all dynastic parties he addedHe further said that under PM Modi the BJP has fulfilled its key promises including the construction of the Ram Temple and abrogation of Article 370 while some states have implemented the Uniform Civil CodeIndia has emerged as a strong nation and the worlds fourthlargest economy under PM Modi whose government has prioritised national security Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev are the latest examples of our zerotolerance policy on terrorism HM Shah asserted https://dailyworld.in/national/hm-shah-kicks-off-bjps-campaign-for-maha-local-body-polls-pitches-for-triple-engine-govt-645152.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tourism-witnessed-surge-in-uttarakhand-with-over-23-crore-visitors-in-last-three-years-govt-645061.html Dehradun Oct 27 The relentless efforts of the Pushkar Singh Dhamiled BJP government to promote tourism and pilgrimage in Uttarakhand are coming to fruition with more than 23 crore tourists arriving in the hill state during the last three years government officials said quoting the data released by the Tourism department This fresh surge in tourism has not only supported the livelihood of homestay hotel dhaba operators women selfhelp groups as well as businessmen employed with the transport sectorDue to the diligent efforts of the state government tourism and pilgrimage is continuously booming in UttarakhandThe special thing is that tourism in Uttarakhand has now become multidimensional tourists are not only limited to big cities and selected hill stations but are also reaching small tourist destinations in remote areas as wellAlong with this participation of not only domestic but also foreign tourists has increased in the hill state promoting adventure activities like rafting trekking bungee jumping mountaineering etcDue to this surge in tourism sector in Uttarakhand the benefits of tourism are directly reaching lakhs of people of the state which includes hotels restaurants homestay operators transport businessmen women selfhelp groups etcAt present more than 6000 homestay operators in the state have emerged as direct beneficiaries of increased tourism activities in the statePilgrimage activities have also increased significantly in the state As of now this year the number of pilgrims for the revered Char Dham Yatra alone has reached five millionThis year more than 4300 horse and mule operators provided their services on the Kedarnath and Yamunotri trekking routeThe state government is now promoting winter travel as wellPrime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the sacred Adi Kailash has also boosted pilgrimage and tourism in the border region of Uttarakhands Pithoragarh districtTourism is the backbone of Uttarakhands economy as the benefits of tourism and pilgrimage directly accrue to the local peopleTherefore the Uttarakhand government is striving to continue tourism and pilgrimage activities throughout the yearPrime Minister Modis visits to the hill state have boosted pilgrimage spirituality and tourism in UttarakhandThe Uttarakhand government continues to invest in tourism infrastructure publicprivate partnerships and digital solutions to improve tourist experiences and increase regional accessibilityFrom the launch of digital tourism platforms to improved transportation networks the state is positioning itself as a global leader in tourism innovation and sustainable growthIn addition partnerships with international airlines and tour operators are helping to expand international tourism to Uttarakhand particularly from key Asian and European markets IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tourism-witnessed-surge-in-uttarakhand-with-over-23-crore-visitors-in-last-three-years-govt-645061.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vijay-to-meet-families-of-karur-stampede-victims-in-mahabalipuram-today-645070.html Chennai Oct 27 TVK president and actor Vijay will on Monday hold a meeting with families who lost their loved ones in the Karur stampede tragedy The meeting organised at a private resort in Mahabalipuram Tamil Nadu comes exactly a month after 41 people died during a TVK rally in Karur marking the first time Vijay will personally interact with the bereaved familiesOn Sunday TVK functionaries arranged for the families to be brought from Karur and the surrounding districts to Mahabalipuram Around 38 families arrived in eight private buses arranged by the party while two families are scheduled to reach by air on Monday morning A family from Tiruppur however has chosen to stay backAbout 50 rooms have been booked at the seaside resort along East Coast Road for their accommodationAccording to TVK sources the families were first picked up from their homes and transported to a common assembly point in Karur before being taken to Mahabalipuram by road The arrangements were coordinated by three district secretaries representing Karur Coimbatore and ErodeInitially Vijay had planned to visit Karur to meet the families at their residences However the plan was dropped due to security and logistical constraints The party then decided to bring the families to a common venue to facilitate a quiet and private meetingThe meeting will begin with a candlelight tribute for the 41 victims at the resorts convention hall Vijay will then meet each family individually to offer his condolences and extend assistance The event is expected to conclude by 3 pm followed by lunch after which the families will begin their return journeyParty functionaries described the event as a solemn humane occasion meant to express solidarity rather than seek publicityVijay wanted to stand by the families in their moment of grief and assure them that their pain has not been forgotten a senior TVK leader said adding that the meeting is intended to bring comfort and closure to the affected families IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vijay-to-meet-families-of-karur-stampede-victims-in-mahabalipuram-today-645070.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 08:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/paddy-procurement-rises-sharply-in-tn-over-17-crore-tonnes-procured-in-four-years-645076.html Chennai Oct 27 The state government announced a significant rise in paddy procurement under the DMK regime highlighting a neardoubling of average annual procurement when compared to the previous government According to an official release the state procured 17045545 tonnes of paddy between 2021 and 2025 translating to an annual average of 4261386 tonnes In contrast the previous administration 201617 to 202021 had procured 11351469 tonnes with an annual average of 2270293 tonnesThe difference amounts to 1991093 tonnes more under the current government which officials said reflects improved operational efficiency early planning and support to farmers The statement also said that the current paddy procurement season began on September 1 a full month ahead of the earlier practice of starting on October 1As of October 24 as many as 1853 Direct Procurement Centres DPCs have been opened across Tamil Nadu and 104 lakh tonnes of paddy have already been procured Of this 877 lakh tonnes have been transported to various districts by train while the remainder has been stored safely in the respective procurement centresThe release added that each DPC handles about 1000 bags of paddy per day with working hours extended till 8 pm to accommodate the heavy inflow of produce To meet the high demand DPCs are functioning even on Sundays 55104 tonnes were procured on October 19 aloneOfficials said this proactive approach has ensured timely payments and eased the burden on farmers during the peak harvest period The state government has also ensured adequate logistics and storage supportAn inventory of 265 crore gunny bags and 28856 plastic tarpaulins has been distributed statewideIn addition 4000 lorries and 1315 trains are being deployed daily to transport nearly 35000 tonnes of paddy To further streamline operations 100 additional load workers have been engaged since October 21 The Food and Civil Supplies Department said continuous monitoring is in place to ensure smooth procurement storage and transport across all districts IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/paddy-procurement-rises-sharply-in-tn-over-17-crore-tonnes-procured-in-four-years-645076.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/explained-how-washington-posts-article-on-lic-adani-link-churns-out-misleading-false-narratives-645088.html New Delhi Oct 27 Ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections and the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament a USbased media outlet published an article alleging that the Government of India pressured LIC to invest up to 39 billion in the Adani Group including 568 million Rs 5000 crore in May 2025 The article contains multiple false information factual inaccuracies misleading claims and false narratives The Life Insurance Corporation of India LIC has already issued an official rebuttal to the Washington Post article categorically describing it as false baseless and far from the truthFormer LIC Chairman Siddhartha Mohanty has also denounced the report stating A misleading narrative has been created by The Washington Post against LICs investments in the Adani Group alleging government interference I categorically affirm that the Government never interferes directly or indirectly in any investment decision of LIC I call upon The Washington Post to withdraw the unverified content from all platforms and refrain from publishing such baseless allegationsAccording to people close to the matter the article is based on wrong assumptions that Adani Ports amp SEZ needed money to refinance its dues and states that Adanis ports subsidiary needed to raise roughly 585 million in a bond issue to refinance existing debtNo such refinancing was due As clearly stated in Adani Ports amp SEZs official media release on May 30 this year the funds raised from LIC were earmarked for the proposed buyback of bonds maturing between 2027 and 2029 not for refinancing any existing debtImmediately after in July Adani Ports launched a tender offer to buy back up to 450 million of outstanding US bonds all maturing between 2027 and 2029The second paragraph of the article incorrectly states Indias second richest man whose net worth hovers around 90 billion had been charged with bribery and fraud last year by the US authorities and several major American and European banks he had looked to for loans were hesitant to helpThe fact is that several American and European institutions have invested in Adani in recent months all of which is publicIn April 2025 BlackRock invested in Adanis private entities In June 2025 Apollos Athene Life led a US750 million Rs 6650 crore investment in Adanis Mumbai Airport in which several insurers participatedIn September 2025 Leading Dutch Bank Rabobank and DZ Bank Germanys second largest bank based on assets invested in Adanis Green AssetsThe opening statement in the article that debt was piling up quickly this spring is falseAdanis debt numbers or balance sheets are not disclosed for the April to June 2025 quarter as Indian companies follow the practice of releasing balance sheets only halfyearly hence this claim is unverifiedFurther the debt of Adani Ports amp SEZ the company in reference has only reduced its debt in FY25 over FY24 to Rs 36422 crore The leverage of not a single Adani group company has increased in FY2025As leverage is a financial figure it can be easily verified from the companies balance sheets but this was not done Instead a dramatic dire situation is created in the opening statement to prejudice the readerFurther for FY25 Adani Portfolios EBITDA was Rs 89218 crore and the total longterm debt was Rs 265 lakh crore and the cash balance was Rs 53843 crore This simply means that Adani can knock off the entire debt in less than three years if it pauses investmentAdani Ports amp SEZ is rated AAA by all four leading domestic rating agencies the highest rating achievable by any Indian corporate reflecting the strongest credit quality and utmost safety for lenders including LICFurther the BBB rating by Fitch for Adani Ports subsidiary and Adanis two green units is equivalent to Indias sovereign rating the highest possible international rating any Indian entity can hold and LIC can invest inTo describe such investments as too risky for a lowrisk lender like LIC is factually baseless and misrepresents both Adani Ports financial strength and LICs prudent investment framework according to people familiar with the matterThe article has quoted Tim Buckley stating Why should he sell them if he can actually just get the government of India to keep on funding him he said Its the Indian people that have to keep bailing him outThe fact is that Adani has never required any bailout from the Indian people the government or its institutions Adani Ports over 75 per cent debt is foreign debt and the remaining is from a mix of domestic institutions including some of the top mutual funds and banksThis is not the first time LIC which has an AUM of over Rs 55 lakh crore has been the sole subscriber to an issuance LIC has also solely subscribed to 10year issuances by institutions like Vedanta AA rated LampT Finance AAA rated NIIF Infra Fund AAA rated Shriram Finance Ltd AA Rated India Infradebt Limited AAA rated and Arka Fincap Ltd AA ratedIn November 2023 Reliance Industries successfully raised Rs 20000 crore through a 10year domestic bond issue via private placement marking the largest such sale by an Indian nonfinancial firm at the time and the issue was indeed heavily oversubscribed wherein with LIC subscribing the lions share of Rs 12000 croreLIC is receiving 126 per cent additional spread over a 15year GSEC bond on the underlying Rs 5000 crore loan to APSEZs AAA issuance translating to additional Rs 950 crore profit over the period of tenure of the bond in comparison to a similarrated 15year Government Bond Total yield on APSEZ AAA issuance 765 per cent while 15year GSec Yield offered 649 per cent yieldDebt from LIC is less than 3 per cent of Adanis total debt Fifty per cent of the debt is from overseas investors including investors from the US Europe the Middle East and Asia Pacific and has some of the best names globally in the investors listNot just LIC but several other top institutions including ICICI Prudential Nippon and SBI mutual funds HDFC and ICICI banks LIC of India infrastructurefocused funds like NIIF Infra Aseem Infra and IIFCL and top provident funds have invested in the bond offerings by Adani over the past six monthsThe fact is that LICs debt exposure to Adani is less than 03 per cent of its overall debt portfolio On the equity side LIC invested Rs 30127 crore in Adani companies the value of which has almost doubled over the past four yearsAlso Adani is not LICs largest holding Reliance Tata Group ITC SBI SBI Bank and SBI Cards LampT HDFC and Infosys are IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/explained-how-washington-posts-article-on-lic-adani-link-churns-out-misleading-false-narratives-645088.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/howrah-municipal-corporation-chief-sujay-chakraborty-resigns-645098.html Kolkata Oct 27 Chairman of the Board of Administrators at Howrah Municipal Corporation HMC Sujay Chakraborty has resigned from the post He informed on Monday that he sent his resignation letter to the State Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim on SundayChakraborty has been serving as the Chairman of the Board of Administrators at HMC since August 18 2021 He had previously sent his resignation letter seeking relief from the post However at that time his resignation was not accepted He sent his resignation letter again on Sunday requesting that the same be accepted this timeHowever the Trinamool Congress leader said that he resigned from the post purely for personal reasons No one wanted to remove me This decision has been taken for personal reasons If the party gives me any other responsibility I will fulfil it he told a section of media personsIncidentally Saikat Chowdhury the vicechairperson of the board of administrators at Howrah Municipal Corporation had resigned a couple of days ago There were speculations that he took this decision on party ordersAccording to Trinamool sources a large section of the party was not happy with Chakrabortys performance The party believes that the anger of the residents over municipal services in Howrah may affect the partys prospects in the upcoming Assembly election However Chakraborty said in this regard that the party did not give him any instructions to resign However it remains to be seen whether his resignation will be accepted this time or notThe last election in the Howrah Municipal Corporation was held in 2013 and the municipal services were running without any elected councillors After a long time Chakraborty took charge as the chairman of the Howrah Municipal Corporations Board of Administrators in August 2021 This important city across the river Hooghly and neighbouring to Kolkata has been running under the administrative board since thenAs a result of Chakrabortys resignation announcement on Monday and the vicechairpersons resignation a few days ago both the top posts of the board of administrators have become vacantIt is to be noted that the Howrah Municipal Corporation Amendment Bill passed by the West Bengal Legislative Assembly in 2021 was stuck in the West Bengal Governors office for a long time The bill was recently signed by Governor CV Ananda Bose Therefore elections will be held soon IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/howrah-municipal-corporation-chief-sujay-chakraborty-resigns-645098.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cji-gavai-recommends-justice-surya-kants-name-as-successor-645099.html New Delhi Oct 27 Chief Justice of India CJI Bhushan R Gavai on Monday recommended the name of Justice Surya Kant as his successor to the Centre paving the way for Justice Kant to become the 53rd Chief Justice of India The recommendation comes in response to the Law Ministry seeking CJI Gavais suggestion for his successor as he is set to retire on November 23Justice Surya Kant currently the seniormost judge of the Supreme Court and next in line by seniority will assume office upon Justice Gavais retirementOnce the Centre issues the official notification Justice Kant will take oath as the new Chief Justice of India on November 24 He is expected to serve in the top judicial post until his retirement on February 9 2027 a tenure spanning approximately 14 monthsJustice Gavai took charge as the 52nd Chief Justice of India in May 2025As per convention the Law Ministry writes to the incumbent Chief Justice a little over a month before his retirement to seek the name of the next seniormost judge eligible for the positionFollowing this the Chief Justice formally recommends the name to the government for approvalAccording to the Memorandum of Procedure MoP governing judicial appointments and transfers the seniormost judge of the Supreme Court deemed fit to hold the position should be appointed as the Chief Justice of IndiaWith CJI Gavais recommendation now forwarded the government is expected to notify Justice Surya Kants appointment soonBorn on February 10 1962 in a middleclass family in Haryana Justice Kant graduated from Government Post Graduate College Hisar in 1981 and obtained his law degree in 1984 from Maharishi Dayanand University RohtakHe began his legal practice at the District Court in Hisar in 1984 and later shifted to Chandigarh in 1985 to practice at the Punjab and Haryana High Court according to Justice Kants profile on the Supreme Courts official websiteOver the years he specialised in constitutional service and civil matters representing several universities boards corporations banks and even the High Court itself Justice Kant earned the distinction of becoming the youngest Advocate General of Haryana on July 7 2000He was designated as a Senior Advocate in March 2001 and served as Advocate General until his elevation as a permanent judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on January 9 2004He also served as a member of the Governing Body of the National Legal Services Authority NALSA for two consecutive terms from February 2007 to February 2011 and is currently a member of several committees of the Indian Law Institute a deemed university functioning under the Supreme Court of IndiaJustice Kant assumed charge as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court on October 5 2018 and was elevated to the Supreme Court on May 24 2019 He has served as Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee since November 12 2024 and is due to retire on February 9 2027 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cji-gavai-recommends-justice-surya-kants-name-as-successor-645099.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/man-dies-as-bus-collides-with-car-in-rajasthans-jodhpur-645105.html Jaipur Oct 27 A tragic road accident in Jodhpur district of Rajasthan on Monday left one person dead and 30 others injured ten of them critically said officials here The accident occurred around 8 am near Naiyon Ki Dhani on the OsianChadi Road when a private bus carrying about 40 passengers collided headon with an oncoming carAccording to police the bus was travelling from Osian to Chadi while the car was heading towards Jodhpur The impact was so severe that the bus overturned and the car was completely crushed One man died on the spot and 30 passengers from both vehicles were injured The deceased has been identified as Bhanwar a businessman from Bhinmal Jalore who was travelling to Jaipur with his family after Diwali celebrations Upon receiving the report the Osian police reached the accident site and with the help of locals rescued the injured from the wreckageAll the injured were taken to the Osian SubDistrict Hospital from where ten critically injured individuals were referred to Mathuradas Mathur Hospital in Jodhpur for further treatment Naib Tehsildar Chhatar Singh Rajpurohit informed that there were seven occupants in the car Bhanwar deceased his sons Arvind Vinay and Mahendra as well as Mahendras wife Usha driver Dilip Kumar and Santosh Dave Dilip Mahendra Usha and Santosh sustained serious injuries and are being treated in Jodhpur Six bus passengers have also been referred to JodhpurThey have been identified as Pooja 26 Kishna Ram 45 Sanjay Nain Singh 62 Bhoja Ram 60 and Ganga Ram 65 all residents of nearby villages in Jodhpur district Eyewitnesses said screams echoed in the area as the bus overturned Locals rushed to the spot after hearing the crash and helped in the rescue operation Police are investigating the exact cause of the collision which is suspected to have been caused by speeding on a curved stretch of road IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/man-dies-as-bus-collides-with-car-in-rajasthans-jodhpur-645105.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/path-to-viksit-bharat-will-be-built-across-our-villages-fm-sitharaman-645114.html New Delhi Oct 27 The path to Viksit Bharat will be built not merely in cities or industrial hubs but across our villages Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday In a series of posts on X social media platform citing a media article written by her she said this will be achieved by empowering farmers as entrepreneurs converting every district into a processing hub and ensuring that the fruits of Indias progress reach every householdAn umbrella brand of Kalyana Sampada was created and each district was encouraged to identify an agriproduct or a set of products that could be developed into valueadded commodities said FM SitharamanThe initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of One District One Product programme as an extension of Make in India for our annadatas farmersIn each district a farmer producer company FPC was chosen by NABARD to operate the food processing and training units My MPLADS funds were leveraged to support farmers of the region by bringing agroprocessing capabilities to their doorstep the finance minister informedAccording to her agroprocessing today demands capital technology and market linkagesIn an increasingly protectionist global environment strengthening our domestic food processing capacity is a national security priority Selfsufficiency in food processing ensures resilience against global disruptions and creates rural prosperity in tandem she mentioned in her X postsIndia is primed for this leap In the true spirit of cooperative federalism the Centre and states must join hands to scale and replicate these successful models nationwide FM Sitharaman addedEarlier this month Sitharaman assured farmers of full support to boost agricultural income as she inaugurated the Farmers Training and Common Facility Centre and a new agroprocessing unit hereAddressing the gathering in Karnataka she highlighted initiatives like soil health cards fertilisers financial assistance and the increased MSP for foodgrains and pulses IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/path-to-viksit-bharat-will-be-built-across-our-villages-fm-sitharaman-645114.html Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pocso-case-ktaka-hc-reserves-verdict-on-quash-petition-by-ex-cm--644959.html Bengaluru Oct 25 Karnataka High Court on Saturday reserved the verdict on the petition by the BJP Central Parliamentary Committee Member and former CM B S Yediyurappa to quash proceedings in connection with the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences POCSO Act Yediyurappa pleaded to quash the order taking cognisance of the offence by the court and issuance of summons against him on February 28 2025Yediyurappa has also sought the quashing of the FIR and chargesheet against him in the caseThe single division bench headed by Justice M I Arun passed the order in this regard It can be recalled that the High Court on February 7 had set aside the trial court order taking cognisance of the offences under the Pocso Act and reverted the matter to the trial court for continuation of the probeSenior counsel C V Naagesh appearing for Yediyurappa had submitted that the High Court had quashed the earlier cognisance order after finding that there was no application of mind by the trial courtThe offence was committed on February 2 2024 at 1130 am Again on February 5 2024 the opposite parties met Yediyurappa and took pictures However a complaint was not lodged on either of the days When there was political strife in the state on March 14 2024 they lodged a complaintThe witnesses present at the time of the alleged crime have stated that nothing had happenedSenior Public Prosecutor Professor Ravivarma Kumar had submitted that the trial court had taken cognisance of the matter based on the evidence and with the application of mindAs per the charge sheet Yediyurappa in collusion with the other three accused had been charged under the Pocso Act and IPCs sections 354A sexual harassment 204 destroying document or electronic record and 214 offering bribe to another person to make them conceal an offenceThe other accused faces charges of colluding with Yediyurappa to hush up the case under IPC sections 204 and 214The charge sheet mentions that the complainant had gone to meet Yediyurappa at his residence on February 2 this year to seek his help regarding the sexual assault against her 17yearold daughterYediyurappa holding the wrist of the girl took her into a room in his residence locked it and sexually harassed her it said However it mentions that the girl resisted and came out of the room Afterwards the BJP leader refused to help themWhen the victim uploaded the photo and video on a social media account the accused had them called to his residence through other accused persons and gave Rs 2 lakh cash to the complainant The accused had also obtained the photos and video from social media and from the iPhone galleryThe victims mother had passed away on May 26 2024 due to health complications in BengaluruYediyurappa had refuted the charges and said that he was ready to face any case A mother and daughter were found near my residence We did not entertain them out of suspicion But once I saw them sitting near my house with tears in their eyes I called them and asked why they were weeping They claimed that they were going through a big crisis I called up Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayanand and asked him to help them out The woman and daughter started talking against me there itself and they were sent outThen the matter had taken a different turn If we come forward to help these are the consequences to be faced I had even given them money after hearing their woes I will face everything the former Chief Minister had said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pocso-case-ktaka-hc-reserves-verdict-on-quash-petition-by-ex-cm--644959.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 00:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vande-bharat-express-halt-at-reasi-sparks-joy-among-jampk-locals-644960.html Reasi Oct 25 In a boost to regional connectivity and tourism the Northern Railway has announced an additional twominute stoppage for the KatraSrinagar Vande Bharat Express at Reasi station starting 29 October The decision introduced on a fivemonth trial basis has been met with widespread celebration by residents who see it as a gamechanger for the areas economy and youth employmentThe semihighspeed train flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 6 June 2025 currently makes just one stopat Banihalbetween Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and SrinagarTrain numbers 26401 KatraSrinagar and 26402 SrinagarKatra will now halt at Reasi toandfro departing Katra at 0810 AM and arriving in Srinagar by 1108 AM shaving travel times while enhancing accessibilitySenior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal Jammu Division said This responds to persistent local demands and rising passenger traffic from Reasi a key religious and tourist hub near the Vaishno Devi shrine and the iconic Chenab BridgeLocals erupted in gratitude crediting Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for heeding their callsOne resident speaking anonymously to IANS said From the bottom of my heart thank you to Minister Vaishnaw This was essential tourism will boom drawing more visitors to Reasi Under PM Modis visionary leadership weve seen bridges built and now the stopping of this muchawaited train It will cut unemployment and empower our youthPankaj Malhotra another local echoed the sentiment Reasi demanded a bridge earlier and it happened Now the Vande Bharat halt from 29 October will bring outsiders boosting business at shops taxis and jobs for everyoneBusiness organisations hailed the move as a milestone predicting a surge in pilgrim footfall to nearby sites like the worlds highest railway archThe UdhampurSrinagarBaramulla Rail Link USBRL project featuring engineering marvels like the Chenab Bridge has already transformed JampKs transport landscape since its partial openingOfficials will monitor ticket sales closely with a review slated after five months to assess viabilityThe Vande Bharat has redefined speed and comfort for JampK travellers Singhal added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vande-bharat-express-halt-at-reasi-sparks-joy-among-jampk-locals-644960.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 00:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-court-dismisses-petition-challenging-scs-historic-ayodhya-verdict-644961.html New Delhi Oct 25 The Patiala House Court of Delhi has dismissed a petition challenging the Supreme Courts historic Ayodhya verdict Lawyer Mahmood Pracha had filed a petition seeking to declare the 2019 decision of a fivejudge bench of the Supreme Court null and voidIn his petition the lawyer also challenged the lower courts order refusing to hear his civil suitPracha claimed in his petition that former Chief Justice of India Justice DY Chandrachud was part of the fivejudge bench that decided the Ayodhya dispute but Justice Chandrachud in a speech last year acknowledged that the Ayodhya verdict was in accordance with the solution provided to him by Bhagwan Shri Ram Lalla Virajman It is also true that Shri Ram Lalla was one of the litigants in the Ayodhya disputeDistrict Judge Dharmendra Rana of Patiala House Court dismissed Prachas petition stating that it was frivolous fallacious and an abuse of the judicial processDismissing the petition the court also imposed a fine of Rs 6 lakh on Pracha while the trial court had imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh on himThe court stated that it is clear that the fine imposed by the lower court has failed to have any effect Therefore the court believes that a reasonable increase in the fine is necessary to effectively curb the tendency of those who file such cases with a frivolous mentalityIn the English translation of former Chief Justice Chandrachuds speech which was included in the court order Justice Chandrachud did not mention Ram Lalla He stated that he had prayed to God for a resolution to the Ayodhya caseLawyer Mahmood Pracha had also made Bhagwan Ram Lalla Virajman a party in his lawsuit The petition also included the name of then Chief Justice Dhananjay Yashwant Chandrachud as the next friend of Ram Lalla VirajmanIn fact the lower court had dismissed Prachas petition in April 2025 and imposed a fine of Rs 1 lakhPracha challenged the lower courts decision of October 18 in the district court District Judge Rana citing both the Ayodhya verdict and the former Chief Justices speech concluded that Justice Chandrachuds prayer to God was a statement made out of spiritual sentiment and not a sign of bias or external influenceThe court stated that appellant Pracha failed to grasp the subtle distinction between the Supreme God and the legal personality representing the litigant in court He appears to have a misunderstanding of religion and law It appears the appellant did not carefully read the Ayodhya judgment Otherwise such a misconception would not have arisenJudge Rana also stated that seeking guidance from God based on personal faith cannot in any way be considered fraud or manipulation of the judicial processThe court also found that Prachas petition is also barred by the Judges Protection Act 1985 It prohibits any civil or criminal proceedings against judges during judicial duties Pracha wrongly included former CJI Chandrachud as a close friend of Bhagwan Shri Ram Lalla Virajman but excluded other essential parties to the original Ayodhya caseIn his conclusion Justice Rana expressed concern that there is a growing trend of targeting public functionaries after retirement Consequently the judiciary and its associated legal community need to be vigilant against such propaganda and malicious attacks The situation becomes even more tragic when the protector himself turns predator Here too the appellant is experienced lawyer but he chose to support the wrong side Instead of participating in the solution he opted to augment the problem The appellant not only filed a false and frivolous suit but also filed an absolutely frivolous and luxurious appealThe District Court dismissed Prachas appeal upholding the lower courts order The fine imposed on him was increased from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 6 lakh IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-court-dismisses-petition-challenging-scs-historic-ayodhya-verdict-644961.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 00:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-doctor-suicide-case-accused-cop-arrested-after-surrender-644989.html New Delhi Oct 26 In a significant development in the Maharashtras female doctors rape and suicide case in Satara district police arrested SubInspector Gopal Badane after he surrendered at the Phaltan Police Station Badane who had been absconding since his suspension is accused of repeatedly raping a woman doctor and driving her to suicide He will be produced before the court on SundayEarlier on Saturday police arrested another accused Prashant Bankar the son of the deceased doctors landlord Bankar has been charged with mentally harassing the doctor whose name appeared alongside Badanes in her fourpage suicide note and in a message written on her palm before her deathAccording to officials the deceased was a government medical officer posted at the Phaltan subdistrict hospital in Satara A native of Beed district she was found hanging in a hotel room late Thursday night under mysterious circumstancesHer suicide note accused SubInspector Gopal Badane of raping her four times and Prashant Bankar of continuous mental harassment She also mentioned that a Member of Parliament MP and his personal assistants had pressured her to falsify medical reports for accused individuals in criminal casesPolice confirmed that both accused have been booked at the Phaltan Police Station under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code Satara Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi stated that a detailed investigation is underway into the rape allegations the harassment claims and the possible involvement of political figuresThe deceased doctors note revealed that she had been subjected to physical and mental torture for over five months It also mentioned that she had lodged as many as 21 complaints with various authorities but no effective action was taken In one incident described in her note the doctor claimed she was threatened by an MP over the phone for refusing to issue a false medical certificateHer cousin also made similar allegations about the doctor being made to falsify medical certificates IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/maha-doctor-suicide-case-accused-cop-arrested-after-surrender-644989.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 08:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/heavy-rain-forecast-for-six-tn-districts-fishermen-warned-against-venturing-into-sea-644990.html Chennai Oct 26 The Regional Meteorological Centre RMC in Chennai has forecast heavy rainfall across six districts of Tamil Nadu on Sunday due to the formation of a lowpressure area over the Bay of Bengal The system currently active over the central and adjoining eastern parts of the Bay is bringing widespread showers and strong winds to the regionAccording to the latest bulletin Chennai Chengalpattu Tiruvallur Kancheepuram Ranipet and Villupuram districts along with Puducherry are likely to experience heavy rainThe RMC further noted that rainfall activity is expected to intensify on Monday with extremely heavy rain possible in Tiruvallur Chennai and Ranipet districtsStrong showers are also expected in Chengalpattu Kancheepuram Vellore Villupuram and Puducherry Officials said the developing weather system is part of a larger circulation extending over the central and northwestern Bay of Bengal which is expected to strengthen further over the next 24 hoursThe lowpressure area is likely to move northwestward bringing moderate to heavy rainfall to northern coastal districts of Tamil Nadu and parts of Puducherry the RMC statedMeanwhile fishermen have been strongly advised to stay away from the sea due to squally winds Wind speeds are expected to reach 80 kmph over the southwest southeast and central Bay of Bengal and may intensify up to 100 kmph over the midwestern and northwestern sectorsCoastal residents have also been urged to remain cautious as the sea is likely to be very rough Disaster management teams in the affected districts have been placed on high alert and local administrations have initiated preparatory measures to handle possible flooding in lowlying areasWith the northeast monsoon active since October 16 several parts of Tamil Nadu have already received aboveaverage rainfall in the past week The weather office has said that further updates will be issued as the system evolves IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/heavy-rain-forecast-for-six-tn-districts-fishermen-warned-against-venturing-into-sea-644990.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 08:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/roads-crumble-in-chennai-after-heavy-rainfall-mayor-orders-swift-repairs-644991.html Chennai Oct 26 Over the past week residents across Chennai have flooded social media with complaints about the worsening condition of the state capitals arterial and interior roads which were battered by recent spells of heavy rain Videos and photos of cratered roads traffic snarls and waterlogged stretches have sparked public outrage and renewed calls for urgent civic intervention Responding to the criticism Mayor R Priya announced that the Greater Chennai Corporation GCC has identified potholes in nearly 2000 locations across the cityIn a statement on Sunday she attributed the deterioration directly to the continuous downpour and assured that immediate steps are being taken to fix the damaged stretches Due to heavy rainfall potholes have appeared on several city roads Funds have been allocated to fill them immediately and wardwise repair work is already underway These potholes will be filled on the same day they are identified the Mayor saidShe added that motor pumps have been installed in several floodprone areas to drain accumulated rainwater quickly and prevent further road damageIt may be recalled that Mayor Priya accompanied by HRampCE Minister and CMDA Chairman PK Sekarbabu had on Saturday inspected dredging work at the Buckingham Canal in Royapuram ZoneThe Minister instructed officials to ensure the free flow of rainwater and directed immediate clearance of waste from the canal to prevent floodingThis area lies adjacent to the Buckingham Canal where the Otteri Nalla joins Water from Ambattur Kolathur and Thiru Vi Ka Nagar flows into this canal Dredging work is progressing well and with the weather department predicting more rain these measures are essential to prevent inundation the Mayor saidCivic officials said doortodoor inspections were also carried out in neighbourhoods like Kalyanapuram and Kalyanapuram Pallam where around 1000 families were consulted to identify local issues and grievancesA senior GCC official noted that patchwork has already been completed in 168 locations with all complaints being tracked and resolvedMeanwhile Chennai Traffic Police have identified 115 critical pothole spots including 38 on highways 71 on bus route roads and 12 on interior roads which are now being prioritised for repair to ease traffic movement and ensure road safety IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/roads-crumble-in-chennai-after-heavy-rainfall-mayor-orders-swift-repairs-644991.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 09:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/i-respectfully-bow-down-to-devotees-observing-fast-pm-modi-on-chhath-puja-kharna-644992.html New Delhi Oct 26 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wished the people on the second day of auspicious Chhath Puja Kharna and prayed for the wellbeing of all The second day of Chhath Puja is known as Kharna During this day devotees fast from sunrise to sunset refraining from both food and water The fast is broken only after making offerings to the Sun God at sunsetIn a post on X PM Modi said Heartfelt greetings to all on the auspicious occasion of Chhath Parvas Kharna Puja I respectfully bow down to all the devotees observing the fastOn this sacred occasion which symbolises faith and restraint there is a tradition of partaking in satvik prasad prepared with jaggerybased kheer My wish is that on this ritual Chhathi Maiya blesses everyone with her grace he addedThe Prime Minister also shared a song Sukh leke ugayi Dukh leke dubayi by Bihari singer Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua as well as a Chhath Geet titled Sona Satkuniya Ho Dinanaath by Maithili ThakurKharna signifies purification prompting devotees to fast from sunrise to sunset to cleanse their bodies The fast is concluded in the evening with a special prasad offering of jaggery rice puddingConsuming the prasad marks the official start of the 36hour waterless fast that is observed until the final day of the festivalEarlier in the day Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to X and extended greetings to the peopleThe Kharna holds utmost sacred significance in Chhath Puja It is from Kharna that the fast worship and adoration of Chhathi Maiya beginMay this sacred occasion become a means of welfare in the lives of all of you he saidUnion Health Minister JP Nadda also extended best wishes to the devotees on the auspicious occasion and said I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all the devoted observers of the Kharn ritual on the second day of Chhath Puja the great festival of gratitude towards nature and worship of the Sun May Lord Surya Narayan and Chhathi Maiya bestow upon you all happiness prosperity and excellent health IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/i-respectfully-bow-down-to-devotees-observing-fast-pm-modi-on-chhath-puja-kharna-644992.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 09:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/the-third-eye-india-is-global-leader-in-artificial-intelligence-644995.html New Delhi Oct 26 India remains on the forefront of the drive to ensure that Artificial Intelligence AI was transparent oriented to public good and governed by international regulations As the Lead Chair of the Global Partnership on AI GPAI India organised the Global India AI Summit in Delhi in July 2024 which focused on key pillars of AI ecosystem including Computer Capacity Data Sets Application Development Start Up Financing and Safe and Trustworthy AI India will now host the AI Impact Summit in Delhi in February next year where the theme will be the harnessing of AI for addressing realworld challenges such as health care education agriculture climate change and governance Prime Minister Modi has taken a personal interest in promoting advancement of AI he had foreseen the transformative role of AI for humanity He has already earned the credit for putting India on the world map of digitisationMeanwhile India has moved ahead with measures to fight misuse of AI on social media for producing deepfakes videos with synthetic voices and manipulated images and tightened IT Rules 2021 in this regard On October 21 the Centre released amendments to the Rules and invited public feedback on the same within a fortnight This is a timely step considering the fact that a perceived unfair government control on social media was known to have evoked strong protests from youth in many areas in Indias neighbourhoodThe Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology MeitY in its official notice said that with the increasing availability of generative AI tools and the resulting proliferation of synthetically generated informationcommonly known as deepfakes the potential for misuse of such technologies to cause user harm spread misinformation manipulate elections or impersonate individuals has grown significantly and added that it is on recognising these risks and following extensive public discussions and parliamentary discussions that MeitY had drawn up the amendmentsThe framework of amended rules enjoins on the companies offering AI generation tools to embed permanent visible watermarks or metadata identifiers on all synthetic content prescribing coverage of at least 10 percent of the display area of images and videos Likewise audio content must carry identifiers during the first 10 percent of playback duration The amendments formally set out to define for the first time a synthetically generated information as content artificially or algorithmically created generated modified or altered using a computer resource in a manner that makes it appear as authentic or trueSignificant social media intermediaries large platforms designated under the IT Rules will be prohibited from enabling users to suppress or remove the identifiers making it harder to disguise the origin of AI generated material The platform is obligated to ask the users to declare whether uploaded content is synthetically generated before publication and deploy automated detection systems to verify such declarations The rules of course apply only to publically available content and not to private or unpublished materialIn a further move the government has brought all digital services that use mobile numbersfrom WhatsApp and payment apps to food delivery platformsunder telecom cybersecurity regulations and empowered the concerned authorities to order suspension of user accounts across multiple services The TelecommunicationsTelecom Cyber Security Amendment Rules notified on October 22 establish a governmentrun mobile number verificationMNV system and mandate database checks before buying or selling used phonesThey are meant to deal with the cybercrime surge based on stolen or forged mobile connections MNV platformthe centrepiece of the new rules will verify whether phone numbers provided by users corresponded to legitimate telecom subscribersThe government seeks to bring AIgenerated material under the same due diligence and takedown obligations that currently apply to unlawful online information MeitY says the rules aimed at promoting user awareness enhancing traceability and ensuring accountability while maintaining an enabling environment for innovation in AIdriven technologies A new provision clarifies that platforms removing synthetic content through grievance redressal mechanisms will retain their legal protection from liability over such contentThe government has introduced new procedural safeguards into the content takedown rules restricting the power to senior officers The rules limit content removal powers to officials at Joint Secretary rank and above and Deputy Inspector General or higher in Police Previously even junior officials sometimes of rank as low as Section Officer could send removal notifications Further all notifications must now include specific legal basis statutory provisions and detailed reasoning A Secretarylevel officer will review all orders on a monthly basis to ensure necessity and proportionality It maybe mentioned that Social Media Platform X had recently challenged the government arguing that thousands of officials were allowed to issue arbitrary orders without judicial oversightThe tightening of rules for online content removal is prima facie a good move as it compels serious application of mind at a senior level before sending an order to the intermediary The order will have to define the legal basis and statutory provision being invoked the nature of the unlawful act and the electronic location of the content India has taken this initiative at a time when potential misuse of AI is attracting attention worldwide The European Unions AI Act to come into effect in 2026 mandates labelling for synthetic audioimage video or text content Chinas labelling measures which came into force recently were even more detailed and strict The Indian approach is to address concerns of misinformation false political narratives and deepfakes without discouraging innovation and creative expressionA balance between regulatory penalties under the IT Act and the safe harbour provisions for intermediaries has been attempted by MeitY and this is a welcome step India leads the world in adoption of AI applications and MeitY has taken a timely initiative to help the AI based economic advancement of the country The new rules for strengthening telecom cyber security have also come not a day too soon as they ensure compliance with data protection laws and thus check the widespread malady of data theftThe writer is a former Director Intelligence Bureau IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/the-third-eye-india-is-global-leader-in-artificial-intelligence-644995.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/alert-in-tamil-nadus-chidambaram-village-after-sighting-crocodiles-644996.html Chennai Oct 26 The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has issued a public alert and launched an awareness drive in several villages along the Old Kollidam River after crocodiles were sighted in the region following heavy water discharge from the main Kollidam River Teams led by Forest Range Officer Vasanth Bhaskar Forester Panneerselvam and Forest Guard Anbumani visited villages including Velakkudi Agaranallur and Pazhaiyannallur on Saturday to warn residents and distribute pamphlets outlining safety measuresThe officials went doortodoor cautioning people against entering canals ponds or lowlying water bodies where recent reports of crocodile movements had been madeWe advised people not to enter or wash clothes in open waterbodies and to remain cautious especially during the night said Forest Range Officer Vasanth BhaskarThe rising water level has pushed several crocodiles into adjoining streams and flooded fields Their movements have been noticed near the riverbanks and irrigation canalsThe Kollidam River a major distributary of the Cauvery has been carrying a high volume of surplus water released upstream due to the ongoing monsoon rainForest officials believe that the sudden increase in water flow has displaced crocodiles from their usual habitats forcing them closer to human settlementsIn addition to the wildlife alert continuous heavy rain over the past five days has inundated several parts of Cuddalore district including Chidambaram townLocal officials reported that residential colonies and school campuses in lowlying areas have experienced waterloggingAdding to residents anxiety five snakes were rescued from different parts of the town after they slithered into houses and classrooms seeking dry shelter Fire and Rescue Services personnel led by Station Officer P Manimaran safely captured the reptiles and released them into nearby forest areasThe snakes were found at Chidambaram Government Girls Higher Secondary School Ramakrishna Higher Secondary School a house near Annamalai University Agricultural College in Annamalainagar another in VNS Nagar and one in Malaikatti Street Manimaran saidAuthorities have urged the public to remain vigilant avoid venturing into flooded areas and report any sightings of wild animals to the Forest Department or local rescue teams IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/alert-in-tamil-nadus-chidambaram-village-after-sighting-crocodiles-644996.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-departs-for-seychelles-to-attend-swearing-in-ceremony-of-president-elect-644997.html New Delhi Oct 26 Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Sunday departed for Seychelles to attend the swearingin ceremony of Presidentelect Patrick Herminie In a statement the Ministry of External Affairs MEA announced that during the visit the Vice President will extend Indias congratulations to Patrick Herminie and reaffirm the close longstanding and timetested ties between the two nationsIn a post on X the MEA said Adding further momentum in IndiaSeychelles bilateral ties VicePresident CP Radhakrishnan has departed for Seychelles to attend the swearingin ceremony of Dr Patrick Herminie Presidentelect of the Republic of SeychellesThe visit underscores Indias deep commitment to further strengthen and expand its partnership with SeychellesIndias bilateral engagement with Seychelles is characterised by New Delhis historical contacts and continuous support to Seychelles for its security IndiaSeychelles relations embody close friendship understanding and cooperationSeychelles is an important partner under Indias Vision MAHASAGAR and in our commitment to the Global South The visit underscores Indias deep commitment to further strengthen and expand its partnership with Seychelles read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs MEA on FridayIt was in the year 1770 that a small group of five Indians landed in Seychelles as plantation workers along with seven African slaves and 15 French colonists and were recorded as the first inhabitants of the Islands the MEA statesRegular trade links facilitated the migration of an Indian trading community looking for greener pastures having reached a saturation point in East AfricaIndiaSeychelles diplomatic ties were established after the countrys independence in 1976 When Seychelles attained freedom on June 26 1976 a contingent from the Indian Naval Ship INS Nilgiri took part in the Independence Day celebrationsThe Indian Mission was established in 1979 in Victoria with the High Commissioner based in DaresSalaam and concurrently accredited to Seychelles The first resident High Commissioner was appointed in 1987 while Seychelles opened its resident mission in New Delhi in early 2008During Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Seychelles in March 2015 the first by an Indian PM in 34 years four significant agreementsMoUs were signed including the inauguration of the Coastal Surveillance Radar System CRS Project announcements of gifting of a second Dornier aircraft to Seychelles and a threemonth gratis visa for Seychelles nationals for travel to India IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vp-radhakrishnan-departs-for-seychelles-to-attend-swearing-in-ceremony-of-president-elect-644997.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/man-brutally-killed-with-rod-near-kolkata-mayor-firhad-hakims-residence-645003.html Kolkata Oct 26 A man was killed with a sharpedged weapon on a public road near Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakims residence in south Kolkata the police said on Sunday The incident happened in front of Chetla 17A17B bus stand at around 1130 pm on SaturdayAccording to the police a rod was inserted into the mans throat and one person has been detained in connection with the murderThe incident in a posh locality and especially in the mayors neighbourhood raised questions about the safety and security on public roadsIt is learned that the name of the deceased is Ashok Paswan 42 He was sitting with his friends near the bus stand at around 1130 pm and was having a chat when a quarrel suddenly broke outIt is alleged that someone suddenly attacked Paswan with a rod and inserted it into his throat Injured and bleeding the man ran about 100 metres along the road towards his sisters house However he could not make it and fell on the roadside Local residents saw him covered in blood and took him to a nearby hospital The doctors at the hospital declared him brought deadSoon after the incident officers from Chetla police station reached the spot immediatelyOne person has already been detained and is being questioned Efforts are also being made to find out from the local residents who were present at the time of the incident and who committed this crime and how the murder was committed Investigation into the matter is on said a senior officer of Kolkata PoliceFurther details were awaitedThe incident spread a wave of panic in the area The place where the murder took place in Chetla is Mayor Firhad Hakims own ward The mayor and his daughter often go there for various eventsThe residents said that they have complained many times about people having drinking sessions near the bus stand in the evening They said that antisocial activities are carried out till late at night in the area where the attack took place IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/man-brutally-killed-with-rod-near-kolkata-mayor-firhad-hakims-residence-645003.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 10:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-58-candidates-get-election-symbols-for-jubilee-hills-bypoll-645007.html Hyderabad Oct 26 From fruits to kitchen utensils and from household items to electrical and electronic goods the candidates in the Jubilee Hills Assembly byeelection have chosen a variety of election symbols both mundane and unusual There are 58 candidates in the fray for the November 11 byeelection to the Assembly constituency in HyderabadThe Election Commission on Sunday issued the list of contesting candidates and election symbols allotted to themCandidates of smaller parties and independents have opted for unusual symbols like soap dish baby walker dumbbells dish antenna room cooler CCTV camera basket containing fruits bangles and frockIn addition to the candidates of three recognised national and state political parties 26 contestants from small political parties and 29 independents are in the frayThis is the highest number of candidates in the history of the Jubilee Hills constituency which was created in 2009 during the limitation of Assembly segmentsThe number of contestants would have been much higher if the nominations of 130 candidates had not been rejected Another 23 candidates withdrew their nominationsA large number of candidates entered the fray to highlight their grievances over various issues They included people allegedly affected by the demolition of houses by Hyderabad Disaster Response and Asset Protection Agency HYDRAA realignment of the proposed Regional Ring Road RRR farmers and unemployed youthAs per the final electoral rolls released two days ago the constituency has a total of 401365 voters They include 208561 men 192779 women He said 2383 new voters were enrolled after the election notification was issuedSince 58 candidates are in fray four ballot units will be used in each of the polling booths requiring a large voting compartmentDistrict Election Officer RV Karnan has announced that all arrangements have been completed for 407 polling stationsThe byeelection is likely to see a triangular fight among the Congress Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS and Bharatiya Janata PartyBRS leader Maganti Gopinath who had won the Jubilee Hills seat for the third consecutive term in 2023 died in June necessitating the byeelection The BRS has fielded his wife Maganti SunithaThe Congress party has given a ticket to Naveen Yadav while the BJP has once again fielded Lankala Deepak ReddyIn the 2023 elections Gopinath defeated former Indian cricket captain and Congress candidate Mohammed Azharuddin by 16337 votes to winIn a multicornered contest Gopinath had secured 80549 votes while Azharuddin had polled 64212 votes Deepak Reddy of the BJP was in third position with 25866 votesAll India MajliseIttehadul Muslimeen AIMIM whose candidate finished fourth in the 2023 elections is not contesting this time The party led by Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has declared support for the Congress candidate IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-58-candidates-get-election-symbols-for-jubilee-hills-bypoll-645007.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 11:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-lauds-ambikapurs-garbage-cafe-in-mann-ki-baat-645008.html Raipur Oct 26 In a stirring anecdote shared during the 127th episode of his radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Sunday Prime Minister Narendra Modi spotlighted a remarkable initiative unfolding in the heart of Chhattisgarh The Garbage Cafe in Ambikapur a city nestled in central India is redefining the concept of nourishment and civic responsibility one plastic wrapper at a timeEvery day the cafe welcomes people who visit to relish lunch or dinner but instead of paying with rupees they offer bundles of plastic waste discarded carrier bags food wrappers and water bottlesIn lieu of one kilogram of garbage you can get a good lunch or dinner for half a kilogram you can get breakfast the Prime Minister explained lauding the efforts of the Ambikapur Municipal Corporation AMC for this innovative approachThe cafes menu is generous and wholesome rice two vegetable curries dal roti salad and pickles for a full mealBreakfast options include popular street fare such as samosas and vada pav The initiative launched in 2019 under the slogan More the waste better the taste is funded through AMCs sanitation budget and strategically located near the citys main bus standThe concept was born out of a dual crisis plastic pollution and urban hunger By incentivising the collection of plastic waste the cafe not only provides sustenance but also contributes to environmental cleanlinessRagpickers and lowincome individuals are encouraged to gather plastic from streets and landfills exchanging it for hot meals that nourish both body and spiritIf food is available in place of plastic the cafe is not only helping to fill empty stomachs but also contributing to cleaning up the environmentThe cafe feeds several people daily a modest yet meaningful number in a city striving for inclusive progressAmbikapurs Garbage Cafe stands as an example of ingenuity and compassion proving that sustainable solutions can emerge from the most pressing urban challenges In a world grappling with waste and want this humble cafe offers a recipe for hope served warm with a side of civic pride IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-lauds-ambikapurs-garbage-cafe-in-mann-ki-baat-645008.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 11:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bsf-seizes-pistols-drones-heroin-in-border-areas-of-punjabs-ferozpur-amritsar-645009.html Chandigarh Oct 26 In a severe crackdown against crossborder smuggling of arms and narcotics the Border Security Force BSF has seized pistols drones and heroin in separate incidents along the IndiaPakistan border in Punjabs Ferozpur and Amritsar On Sunday the BSF troops recovered a packet of heroin weighing 553 grams from an agricultural field near the village Bhaini Rajputana AmritsarOn Saturday acting on a tipoff provided by its intelligence wing BSF troops on duty recovered one DJI AIR 3S drone near Daoke village in AmritsarThe BSF troops neutralised and recovered one DJI Mavic 3 Classic drone carrying one pistol with a magazine from a farming field near Kahangarh village in Amritsar an official statement saidIn another operation the BSF troops recovered a pistol with a magazine and two live rounds from a farmland near Bahadurke village in the Ferozepur borderThese remarkable operations by the alert BSF troops mark their resolute action in devastating the nefarious attempts of crossborder Pakistani smugglers the statement readThe BSF on Wednesday apprehended a minor boy with 11 gold biscuits along the IndiaBangladesh Border IBB in West Bengals North 24ParganasAccording to an official the weight of the seized gold was 128617 grams valued at around Rs 164 croreDuring interrogation the boy revealed that he was sent by his mother to deliver the gold The boy has been handed over to the concerned authorities along with the gold for further legal processingEarlier this month the BSF seized a gold bar weighing 579 grams from West Bengals North 24 Parganas and arrested a person in possession of the precious metal The gold was valued at Rs 7650 lakh The suspected smuggler was interrogated to extract information related to the gold smuggling racket in the area and handed over to the concerned department IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bsf-seizes-pistols-drones-heroin-in-border-areas-of-punjabs-ferozpur-amritsar-645009.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/speeding-ambulance-kills-two-in-bengals-goalpokhar-645010.html Kolkata Oct 26 Two masons were crushed to death by a speeding ambulance in the Ladukhwa area of Goalpokhar police station in West Bengals North Dinajpur district police said on Sunday The deceased were identified as Luv Pal and Utpal Pal both residents of the Ladukhwa area of GoalpokharAccording to police sources the incident occurred on Saturday night when the masons were returning home after finishing workThe speeding ambulance crushed the masons to death and fled the scene the police addedOn receiving information officers from Goalpokhar police station rushed to the spot and sent the bodies to Islampur Subdivisional Hospital for postmortem examinationMeanwhile the family members of the two deceased masons reached the hospital after hearing the news The family demanded strict action against the accused driverJatin Pal an eyewitness said that the ambulance was coming at a high speed through the Ladukhwa area Pal claimed that the driver of the ambulance was in an inebriated conditionThe Goalpokhar police said that searches are on to catch the accused and seize the vehicleWe have started an investigation into the incident where an ambulance killed two people A case under hit and run has been registered Searches are on to find the ambulance and its driver The bodies have been sent for postmortem examination said a senior officer of North Dinajpur district policeThe accident comes just hours after three people were killed in a road accident in West Bengals Hooghly districtAccording to the police three potters died in a road accident in the Kanajuli area of Gurap police station on National Highway19 early on SaturdayThe potters were travelling in a car which suddenly lost control in the Kanajuli area and hit another vehicleThe deceased were identified as Divas Mandal 30 Kaushik Mandal 28 and Nimai Das 38Further investigation is underway IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/speeding-ambulance-kills-two-in-bengals-goalpokhar-645010.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-spotlights-kutch-mangrove-revival-in-mann-ki-baat-urges-nationwide-tree-planting-645012.html Ahmedabad Oct 26 In the 127th episode of his iconic radio programme Mann Ki Baat Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Gujarats triumph in mangrove conservation as an example of ecological resilience drawing parallels between forests binding hilly terrains and mangroves protecting coastal ecosystems PM Modi emphasised how these green guardians mitigate natural disasters like tsunamis while fostering biodiversity and livelihoodsJungles bind the soil in hills and plains similarly mangroves are the lifeline of our coasts he said invoking the spirit of environmental stewardship amid greetings for the upcoming Chhath Puja which he described as a profound unity of culture nature and societyAt the heart of PM Modis address was the transformative story from Dholera in Gujarats Gulf of KhambhatUnder the state Forest Departments proactive efforts over 3500 hectares of mangroves primarily Avicennia marina species have been planted in the past five years aligning with the Central governments MISHTI Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes scheme launched in 2023This initiative has propelled Gujarat to the national forefront with 19020 hectares afforested in just two years expanding the states mangrove cover to 1175 square kilometres the secondlargest in India after the Sundarbans The results are striking The 2024 wildlife census revealed a surge in marine life along Dholeras revitalised shoresDolphins frolicking in greater numbers PM shared and thriving populations of crabsThis is natures way of thanking us PM Modi noted crediting community involvementEchoing these successes PM Modi highlighted Kori Creek in Kutch district home to one of Indias richest mangrove belts spanning 795 sq km Here the Forest Department runs a dedicated mangrove restoration centre integrating animal welfare programmes that rescue and rehabilitate coastal wildlife If reports are believed recent sightings of several dolphins across 4087 sq km from Kutch to Bhavnagar confirm the ecosystems rebound turning degraded coasts into vibrant habitatsThe 2024 census echoed positive trends 7672 wild asses in the Rann of Kutch a 26 per cent rise alongside increased sightings of otters jackals and seabirdsInland mangroves at Guneri village declared Gujarats first Biodiversity Heritage Site in January further underscore Kutchs unique ecosystems possibly remnants of ancient riverine formationsBuoyed by these positive tidings the Ahmedabad Social Forestry Division announced its maiden marine life survey for the districts coasts inspired by a similar 2024 initiative in Kutch This will assess fish stocks invertebrates and dolphin movements building on Gujarats overall mangrove expansion of 6930 hectares in 202324 with 12000 more planned for 202526 Such surveys aim to inform policy boosting ecotourism and sustainable fisheries amid a national marine fish catch dip of 2 per cent last yearPM Modi concluded with a heartfelt call to action Wherever we live let us plant a tree in the name of our mother under Ek Ped Maa Ke NaamHe urged citizens to contribute via MyGov or the NaMo App framing treeplanting as a tribute to maternal nurturing and planetary healthTrees benefit every being transcending borders he added linking it to global goals like the LiFE movementWith Gujarat leading MISHTI efforts PM Modis message says conservation is collective yielding tangible gains in biodiversity and disaster resilience IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-spotlights-kutch-mangrove-revival-in-mann-ki-baat-urges-nationwide-tree-planting-645012.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-stalin-reviews-adyar-river-works-for-2nd-straight-day-as-monsoon-gains-strength-645013.html Chennai Oct 26 Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday undertook a surprise inspection of the Adyar River mouth for the second consecutive day reviewing the ongoing dredging and widening operations intended to facilitate free flow of floodwater into the Bay of Bengal during the intensifying northeast monsoon The inspection which took place near Srinivasapuram follows CM Stalins earlier visit on October 24 Officials from the Public Works Department and the Greater Chennai Corporation briefed the Chief Minister about the progress of works and the measures taken to prevent flooding in vulnerable zones across the cityThe Chief Minister directed officials to accelerate the widening of the river mouth and ensure that the works were completed before heavy rainfall intensifies in the coming days He emphasised that the Adyar estuary plays a crucial role in draining surplus water from city reservoirs into the sea helping to mitigate flooding in lowlying areasDeputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin Health and Family Welfare Minister Ma Subramanian and Thousand Lights MLA Ezhilan accompanied the Chief Minister during the inspectionThe team closely reviewed the dredging machinery deployed along the estuary and interacted with engineers supervising the operationsAuthorities said that the Adyar River mouth had been narrowed over the years due to siltation and encroachments leading to water stagnation during intense rainfall The ongoing dredging and desilting efforts are part of the states premonsoon preparedness plan which includes strengthening river embankments clearing blockages in stormwater drains and installing motor pumps at key floodprone intersectionsThe Tamil Nadu government has intensified preventive measures across the coastal districts following the formation of a depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal which is likely to intensify into a cyclonic system in the coming daysThe India Meteorological Department IMD has forecast widespread rain for Chennai Tiruvallur Chengalpattu and Kanchipuram districts in the next 48 hoursOfficials added that roundtheclock monitoring teams have been deployed to track water levels in major reservoirs including Chembarambakkam and Poondi and to regulate surplus discharge through the Adyar River into the seaCM Stalin instructed officials to maintain high vigilance and ensure that floodmitigation works remain uninterrupted even during adverse weather conditions IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-stalin-reviews-adyar-river-works-for-2nd-straight-day-as-monsoon-gains-strength-645013.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/those-claiming-to-save-constitution-are-threatening-to-change-it-every-day-bjp-645016.html Kolkata Oct 26 The opposition parties who are constantly posing as saviours of the Indian Constitution are threatening to change that every day the BJP claimed on Sunday Referring to a viral video where RJDs member of legislative council MLC Qari Soheb announced that if Tejashwi Yadav would become the Chief Minister of Bihar they would change the Constitution and amend the Waqf law BJPs Information Technology Cell Chief Amit Malviya made a social media post on Sunday observing that the real intention of those threatening to change the Constitution is to snatch the rights of people coming from Backward ClassesThose who talk day and night about saving the Constitution are the very ones plotting to change it so that they can seize the land and rights of Dalits Backward Classes and tribals Malviya said in his social media postMalviya has also attached the viral video of Qari Soheb speaking of changing the Constitution in his postAt the same time Malviya has questioned whether the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and the RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav who is the chief ministerial candidate for the antiNDA grand alliance in Bihar would take the responsibility for such threats to change the ConstitutionNow the question is for Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav who call themselves the selfappointed guardians of the Constitution Will they allow people like Qari Soheb to encroach on the land and reservations of poor and deprived Hindus questioned MalviyaIn the viral video Qari Soheb was also heard saying at an election rally that those who supported the newly promulgated Waqf Amendment Act required proper treatmentTo save Bihar as well as the country what is required is to defeat the allies of NDA Once Tejashwi Yadav becomes the Chief Minister of Bihar all such bills would be thrown away The Mahagathbandhan will be a government for unity brotherhood and humanity he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/those-claiming-to-save-constitution-are-threatening-to-change-it-every-day-bjp-645016.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 12:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/girl-among-three-killed-in-head-on-collision-between-two-bikes-in-tripura-645018.html Agartala Oct 26 Three people including a girl were killed and another seriously injured after a headon collision between two speeding motorcycles in Tripura police said on Sunday A police officer said the accident occurred at Charilam along National Highway8 in Sepahijala district late on Saturday night when two highspeed bikes collided headon Each of the twowheelers had two ridersQuoting local residents the police officer said the impact of the collision was so severe that the loud crash brought people rushing out of their homesThey found two mangled motorcycles lying on the road and the bodies of three youths including a tribal girl scattered nearby Locals immediately alerted the Bishramganj and Bishalgarh fire servicesFirefighters from Bishalgarh rushed to the spot and took the injured and the bodies to the Bishalgarh SubDivisional Hospital One of the injured was taken to the hospital by local residents in a private vehicle A police team led by SubInspector Rammohan Debbarma of Bishalgarh Police Station reached the spot soon after the mishapThe deceased have been identified as Indrajit Das 28 Rakesh Debbarma 23 and Risha Debbarma 18 Another youth identified as Titon Das sustained serious injuries and was referred to the governmentrun Govind Ballabh Pant Medical College and Hospital in AgartalaThe accident caused a massive traffic jam on the national highway for some timePolice said the same stretch of the highway has witnessed several fatal accidents in recent months A few days ago another youth had died in an earlymorning accident at the same spot after being run over by a busLocal residents have expressed concern over the repeated accidents and urged the authorities to install proper speedcontrol measures and warning signs along this accidentprone stretch of the National Highway to prevent further loss of lives IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/girl-among-three-killed-in-head-on-collision-between-two-bikes-in-tripura-645018.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 13:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-polices-i-pragati-keeps-people-updated-on-case-progress-via-sms-645024.html Gandhinagar Oct 26 Citizens in Gujarat no longer need to make repeated visits to police stations to know the status of their complaints Through the IPRAGATI initiative Intelligent Progress Reporting and Grievance Addressing through Technology Initiative the state government is providing realtime case updates directly to complainants via SMS Since its launch on May 14 IPRAGATI has sent millions of SMS updates to citizens across the state ensuring timely and accurate information The system not only saves citizens from multiple police station visits but also helps officers focus more on investigation rather than administrative queries according to official information shared on SundayLaunched in May by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and under the guidance of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and DGP Vikas Sahay the system aims to make the police process more transparent efficient and citizenfriendlyThe initiative automatically sends SMS alerts to complainants at every key stage of their case including FIR registration panchanama notices arrests bail updates recovery of property and chargesheet filingOfficials said the initiative has strengthened public trust in the police by introducing transparency and accountability at every stage of the legal process It also creates a digital record of all updates allowing senior officials to monitor cases more effectivelyAccording to the government the IPRAGATI initiative offers several tangible benefits to citizens It promotes greater transparency and trust by providing direct updates that enhance public confidence in the police system The system also improves time efficiency saving citizens the effort and inconvenience of repeatedly visiting police stations for caserelated informationThrough automatic SMS alerts complainants receive timely notifications at every key stage of their case ensuring that no development goes unnoticed Moreover the consistent flow of updates instils a sense of security among citizens reassuring them that their cases are being actively pursued by the authorities The IPRAGATI initiative marks a major step towards citizencentric governance and technological innovation in policing IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-polices-i-pragati-keeps-people-updated-on-case-progress-via-sms-645024.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/science-guided-by-faith-can-achieve-any-goal-gujarat-cm-patel-645025.html Ahmedabad Oct 26 Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday attended the Shatchandi Mahayagna at Gozariya village in Mehsana district and claimed that science guided by faith can achieve any goal Extending New Year greetings on the occasion of Vikram Samvat 2082 the Chief Minister emphasised that development must go hand in hand with tradition echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of progress while preserving heritageHighlighting the spiritual significance of yajnas CM Patel said If science is guided by faith we can reach any destination we aspire toHe made the remarks while attending the Mahayagna organised by the Shri Umiya Mataji Mandir Trust and the Patidar communityHe praised Gozariya village noting its spirit of collective strength a village not only capable of completing its own tasks without obstacles but also helping others achieve theirsSpeaking on the renewed spiritual energy across the nation following the consecration of the Ram Lalla in Ayodhya CM Patel underscored Gujarats crucial role in nationbuilding The vision of a developed India is achievable only through a developed Gujarat he said detailing state initiatives to ensure inclusive growth that reaches every village and citizenThe Chief Minister also outlined Gujarats efforts to accelerate economic growth including the governments new zonewise Vibrant Conferences The first such conference recently held in North Gujarat resulted in investment commitments exceeding Rs 3 lakh crore and over 1200 MoUs Patel said with satisfactionCM Patel concluded his address by urging the people of Gozariya to take new resolutions for the year and prayed to Goddess Umiya Mata for their successful fulfilmentMember of Parliament Haribhai Patel highlighted the importance of maintaining religious practices across India to nurture values among the younger generationTrue development includes not just roads and infrastructure but also spirituality and cultural values Haribhai Patel saidRajya Sabha member Mayank Nayak commended the organisers for holding the Shatchandi Mahayagna to reconnect the youth with Sanatan Dharma amid the rise of technology and artificial intelligence He assured continuous support for Gozariyas development and pledged to ensure the village remains at the forefront of progressOn this occasion CM Patel offered prayers to Goddess Umiya Mata and honoured donors who contributed to the MahayagnaThe event saw the presence of Mehsana MLA Mukesh Patel Mehsana District Bank Chairman Vinod Patel Collector SK Prajapati members of the Umiya Mataji Mandir Trust Patidar community leaders and a large gathering of devotees IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/science-guided-by-faith-can-achieve-any-goal-gujarat-cm-patel-645025.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 13:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/over-60-hospitalised-after-suspected-food-poisoning-in-gujarat-645026.html Surendranagar Oct 26 Over 60 people including women and children were hospitalised after a suspected case of food poisoning in Gomta village of Gujarats Surendranagar The incident occurred on Saturday night after residents consumed buttermilk served during a house Vastu ceremonyHealth officials said several people began complaining of vomiting diarrhoea and stomach pain shortly after consuming the buttermilkThe affected villagers were rushed to hospitals in Limbdi and Wadhwan for treatmentA team of health officers and local administration immediately reached the site and hospitals to assess the situationAccording to Taluka Health Officer Jayesh Vaghela More than 60 people suffered from food poisoning after a festive meal in Gomta village All patients are under medical supervision and their condition is currently stableSamples of the buttermilk have been sent to a laboratory for testing to determine the cause of contaminationThe district Health Department has launched an inquiry and is closely monitoring the situationOfficials expressed relief that all victims have started recoveringThe Gujarat government has intensified efforts to curb food poisoning incidents by strengthening food safety enforcement increasing inspections and promoting hygiene awarenessIn 202425 the Food and Drug Control Administration FDCA tested around 60448 food samples across the state of which 145 per cent failed quality checks and 017 per cent were declared unsafe for consumptionUnder the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 Gujarat authorities filed 980 adjudication cases resolving 864 of them and imposing fines amounting to Rs 621 crore while 87 court cases related to unsafe food led to additional penalties of Rs 054 croreThrough the FDCA thousands of food samples are tested annually with strict action taken against violators under the Food Safety and Standards ActThe government has also launched statewide raids to seize adulterated or unsafe food items and imposed heavy fines on offendersIn addition health and local authorities are conducting regular awareness drives on safe food handling at community events and monitoring largescale public meals to ensure compliance with safety norms IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/over-60-hospitalised-after-suspected-food-poisoning-in-gujarat-645026.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 14:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/over-4-500-irrigation-tanks-in-tn-near-full-capacity-645029.html Chennai Oct 26 The onset of the Northeast monsoon has begun to yield significant benefits for Tamil Nadus water resources with nearly 2000 additional irrigation tanks recording storage levels exceeding 75 per cent capacity over the last ten days According to data from the Water Resources Department as of October 15 only 2622 tanks across the State had storage above the 75 per cent markBy Saturday this number had surged to 4556 tanks an increase of 1934 within just 10 days The figure also represents a substantial improvement compared to the same period last year when 3197 tanks had reached similar storage levels as on October 21 2024Of the total tanks that have achieved 100 per cent capacity 396 are located in Kanniyakumari district 266 in Tiruvannamalai 243 in Ranipet 241 in Madurai 189 in Thanjavur and 137 in VillupuramAmong districts showing the steepest rise in tank levels Villupuram recorded the highest increase with 131 tanks reaching full storage followed by Madurai with 120 and Tiruvannamalai with 111Neighbouring districts of Chennai Chengalpattu and Kancheepuram also reported improved storage with 50 and 62 tanks respectively now filledOfficials said that the rise in water levels reflects the welldistributed rainfall pattern during the first phase of the Northeast monsoon which began on October 16In addition to the filled tanks 2274 others currently hold between 76 per cent and 99 per cent of their capacityKanniyakumari district tops this category with 788 tanks followed by Thanjavur 263 Madurai 220 Pudukottai 144 and Tenkasi 109Madurai has seen the highest increase in tanks within this range with 189 more tanks nearing full capacity compared to the previous week followed by Kanniyakumari 122 and Thanjavur 95Officials expect that with the India Meteorological Department predicting aboveaverage rainfall for the remainder of the season the number of tanks reaching full capacity is likely to rise further in the coming weeks Higher tank storage they added would naturally improve groundwater levels and reduce dependency on borewellsFor farmers who already benefit from free power supply this means less groundwater extraction and a more sustainable irrigation pattern across the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/over-4-500-irrigation-tanks-in-tn-near-full-capacity-645029.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 14:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-to-bring-heavy-rain-in-bengal-says-met-office-645031.html Kolkata Oct 26 The Meteorological MeT office on Sunday said that Cyclone Montha will not have a direct impact on West Bengal but is likely to bring heavy rain from Monday onwards Districts of South Bengal including Kolkata will receive rain due to the influence of the systemAccording to the special bulletin of the MeT office the cyclone is then likely to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatam on the Andhra Pradesh coast near Kakinada region on Tuesday evening or night as a severe cyclonic stormThe maximum wind speed at the time of landfall may be 90100 kilometres per hour The wind speed may reach 110 kilometres per hour said the MeT DepartmentThe MeT Department official Sourish Banerjee said that although there will be no direct impact of the cyclone on the state the sea will remain rough in the Bengal coast from October 28 to 30 There is a possibility of gusty winds of 3545 kilometres per hour The speed of gusty winds can reach 55 kilometres per hourDue to rough seas fishermen in Bengal have been advised not to venture into the sea from October 28 to 30 Those who are in the deep sea have been asked to return by Monday October 27 said the officialOn Monday light thundershowers are likely at one or two places in South 24 Parganas Jhargram East Midnapore and West Midnapore districts On Tuesday heavy rain is likely at a few places in the South 24 Parganas and East Midnapore districts Light to moderate rain with thundershowers are likely at a few places in the remaining south Bengal districts said the officialIn addition North 24 Parganas South 24 Parganas Howrah Hooghly Jhargram East Midnapore West Midnapore and Kolkata are likely to experience light to moderate rain with thundershowers at most places on Wednesday Light to moderate rain with thundershowers is likely in all districts of south Bengal on Thursday There is a possibility of light to moderate rain with thunderstorms in most areas of all districts on FridayMeanwhile the possibility of thunderstorms in north Bengal is low However the amount of rain will gradually increase in the next seven daysThe maximum temperature in Kolkata on Saturday was 329 degrees Celsius which is 12 degrees above normal The minimum temperature on Sunday was 255 degrees Celsius which is 25 degrees Celsius above normal IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cyclone-montha-to-bring-heavy-rain-in-bengal-says-met-office-645031.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 14:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-sailing-ahead-with-over-rs-3-lakh-crore-maritime-vision-2030-645034.html New Delhi Oct 26 Charting a decade of transformation from 2014 to 2025 Indias maritime sector is cruising ahead with a record performance across ports coastal shipping and inland waterways according to an official statement issued on Sunday ahead of the India Maritime Week 2025 which kicks off in Mumbai on Monday The development is powered by Maritime India Vision 2030 backed by a total investment of Rs 335 lakh crore to modernise ports expand shipping capacity and strengthen inland waterways A recent landmark package of Rs 69725 crore is under implementation to boost shipbuilding and revitalise the maritime ecosystemIndias ports sector has witnessed a transformative leap with total port capacity nearly doubling from 1400 million metric tonnes per annum MMTPA to 2762 MMTPA reflecting major investments in modernisation and infrastructureThe sectors financial strength has surged with the net annual surplus rising sharply from Rs 1026 crore to Rs 9352 crore underscoring improved revenue generation and cost management the statement saidEfficiency indicators have also strengthened with the operating ratio improving from 73 per cent to 43 per cent marking a major step toward sustainable and profitable port operationsCargo handling volumes have grown impressively from 972 million metric tonnes MMT to 1594 MMT signalling robust growth in maritime trade and port efficiency with major ports handling approximately 855 million tonnes of cargo in FY 20242025 an increase from 819 million tonnes in FY 202324Operational performance has improved significantly as the average vessel turnaround time has been reduced from 93 hours to just 48 hours enhancing overall productivity and global competitivenessIndias shipping sector has charted steady growth with the number of Indianflagged vessels rising from 1205 to 1549 reflecting the nations expanding maritime presenceThe gross tonnage of the Indian fleet has increased from 10 million gross tonnes MGT to 1352 MGT underscoring a stronger and more capable shipping capacityCoastal shipping has gained significant momentum with cargo movement nearly doubling from 87 million metric tonnes MMT to 165 MMT reinforcing the shift toward efficient lowcost and ecofriendly transport modesIn a landmark development for the inland water transport sector the Inland Waterways Authority of India IWAI reported a record cargo movement of 146 MMT in 2025 up from 18 MMT in 2014 an increase of around 710 per centThe number of operational waterways has increased remarkably from 3 to 29 reflecting a major boost to Indias inland transport networkIWAI handed over the Haldia MultiModal Terminal MMT to IRC Natural Resources marking a major step in advancing inland waterway infrastructure and promoting multimodal logistics under the PublicPrivate Partnership PPP model Built with World Banks assistance the West Bengal terminal has a capacity of 308 million metric tonnes per annum MMTPAFerry and RoPax a ship that carries both vehicles and passengers have also gained strong traction carrying over 75 crore passengers in 202425 reflecting growing public adoption of waterbased transport for safe and efficient travelIn just a decade Indias seafarer workforce has surged from 125 lakh to over 3 lakh now accounting for 12 per cent of the global seafaring workforce making the country one of the worlds top three suppliers of trained seafarers and opening up vast opportunities in navigation ship operations logistics and allied maritime industries at home and overseasWith a Rs 25000 crore corpus the Maritime Development Fund MDF is set to provide longterm financing to expand Indias shipping tonnage and shipbuilding capacity Complementing this the revamped Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme with an outlay of Rs 24736 crore tackles domestic cost disadvantages and incentivises shipbreaking while the Shipbuilding Development Scheme drives greenfield clusters yard expansions and risk coverage with Rs 19989 croreIndia Maritime Week 2025 IMW 2025 is a landmark event in the global maritime calendar taking place from October 27 to 31 at the NESCO Exhibition Centre Mumbai Bringing together key stakeholders from the shipping port and logistics communities IMW 2025 will serve as a strategic platform for dialogue collaboration and business development The event is expecting participation from over 100 countries and drawing more than 100000 delegates port operators investors innovators and policymakers alike The fiveday programme will feature 500 exhibitors thematic pavilions technology demonstrations and sessions spanning portled development shipbuilding clusters and digital corridors IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-sailing-ahead-with-over-rs-3-lakh-crore-maritime-vision-2030-645034.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-continues-to-attract-record-fdi-flows-as-global-firms-exit-pakistan-645037.html New Delhi Oct 26 While India continues to attract record levels of foreign investment and corporate expansion Pakistan has witnessed a steady retreat of global firms across sectors This contrast reflects not only macroeconomic trends but also the underlying business culture regulatory frameworks and institutional capacity that shape investor confidence and longterm strategic decisions according to an article in Japan Forward a website of the Sankei Shimbun newspaperPakistan despite being the fifthmost populous country in the world has struggled to retain the interest of major international companies The recent announcement by Procter amp Gamble PampG to shut down its manufacturing and commercial operations in Pakistan is emblematic of broader challenges the article by Professor Pema Gyalpo saidThe PampGs exit follows similar moves by Shell Pfizer TotalEnergies Telenor and Microsoft Pfizer sold its Karachi manufacturing plant to Lucky Core Industries in 2024 ending local production Shell exited in 2023 after years of strategic reconsideration selling its stake to Saudi Arabias Wafi EnergyTotalEnergies divested its share in Total PARCO Pakistan Limited to Singaporebased Gunvor Group Telenor after a failed merger attempt agreed to sell its Pakistan operations to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited though regulatory approvals have delayed the transaction Microsoft after 25 years in Pakistan quietly shut down its operations in July 2025These exits span diverse sectors consumer goods energy pharmaceuticals telecommunications and technology suggesting systemic rather than sectorspecific issues Industry leaders have pointed to high power costs regulatory uncertainty and infrastructure bottlenecks as key deterrentsSaad Amanullah Khan former CEO of Gillette Pakistan noted that such departures should serve as a wakeup call for policymakers The lack of reliable logistics frequent power outages and delays in approvals have made it increasingly difficult for MNCs to operate efficientlyThe pharmaceutical sector offers a particularly stark example Multinational drug companies have faced prolonged delays in price change approvals and regulatory hurdles from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan DRAP Inconsistent enforcement lack of transparency and outdated promotional standards have discouraged innovation and investmentThese challenges are compounded by macroeconomic instability currency depreciation inflation and limited access to foreign exchange which erode profitability and complicate financial planningThe article highlights that in contrast India has emerged as a preferred destination for global investment In FY2425 alone India attracted 81 billion in foreign investments driven by steady economic growth a rapidly expanding middle class and a businessfriendly policy environment The governments proactive initiatives such as Make in India digital infrastructure expansion and tax reforms have created a conducive climate for corporate expansionMajor global firms are deepening their footprint in India Airbus is investing across manufacturing engineering and training aligning with national priorities Microsoft has committed 3 billion to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure with new data centres planned to support growing demandApple has significantly increased iPhone production assembling over 22 billion worth of devices in April 2025 alone Amazon already one of Indias largest employers is investing an additional 82 billion in cloud infrastructure in Maharashtra NTT DATA has launched its largest data centre campus in India while VinFast LLC is building a 2 billion EV manufacturing plant in Tamil NaduThe pharmaceutical sector in India is also thriving Eli Lilly is investing over 1 billion in contract manufacturing and establishing a global capability center in Hyderabad The company is positioning India as a key hub for innovation and production including the rollout of its experimental weight loss drug These moves reflect confidence in Indias regulatory environment skilled workforce and infrastructure readiness IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-continues-to-attract-record-fdi-flows-as-global-firms-exit-pakistan-645037.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-bjp-urges-cm-stalin-to-declare-thevar-jayanthi-as-statewide-student-festival-645040.html Chennai Oct 26 Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson ANS Prasad has urged Chief Minister MK Stalin to officially direct the School Education Department to celebrate the birth anniversary of Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar popularly known as Thevar Jayanthi as a transformative student festival across all schools and colleges on October 30 In a detailed statement Prasad described Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar as a divine son and golden soul who embodied the highest ideals of nationalism unity and personal disciplineHe appealed to the state government to declare Thevar Jayanthi as Discipline Unity and Solidarity Day a day dedicated to cultivating moral values and social responsibility among studentsQuoting Thevars guiding principle Nationalism is my body divinity is my soul Prasad said the leaders life served as a timeless example of unwavering patriotism and humanenessThevars birth anniversary must not remain confined to commemorative rituals It should become a festival that uplifts the student community reminding them of their duty to live with purpose and virtue he saidHighlighting the moral and social challenges faced by todays youth Prasad suggested that the observance of Thevar Jayanthi in schools should include awareness programmes on abstaining from tobacco alcohol and social media misuseIn an age when our culture and civility are eroded by vices and distractions this day should inspire students to embrace selfdiscipline and righteousness he statedPrasad called upon the state to integrate the teachings of great national figures like Mahatma Gandhi BR Ambedkar and Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar into educational activitiesTheir lives and sacrifices must become part of the moral education of every student in Tamil Nadu he said adding that the government has a solemn responsibility to nurture such national consciousness through institutional effortHe also recalled the wisdom of Thiruvalluvars verse Discipline brings no shame it is cherished even beyond life itself observing that Thevar exemplified this ideal throughout his lifeBy following his path students can bring pride to their families and the nation Prasad saidThe BJP spokesperson concluded that an official directive from Chief Minister Stalin declaring Thevar Jayanthi as Discipline Unity and Solidarity Day would be a fitting tribute to his legacy and a milestone initiative to strengthen student character and national spirit across Tamil Nadu IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-bjp-urges-cm-stalin-to-declare-thevar-jayanthi-as-statewide-student-festival-645040.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-offers-condolences-on-demise-of-thailands-queen-mother-sirikit-645045.html New Delhi Oct 26 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed sadness over the passing away of Thailands Queen Mother Sirikit and paid tribute to her lifelong dedication to public servicenbspHe offered condolences to Thailands King the members of the Royal Family and the people of Thailand over the death of Queen SirikitnbspPM Modis condolence message came after the Bureau of the Royal Household announced that Thailands Queen Mother Sirikit passed away at the age of 93 in King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital on FridayI am deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother of Thailand Her lifelong dedication to public service will continue to inspire generations My heartfelt condolences to His Majesty The King the members of the Royal Family and the people of Thailand in this hour of profound grief PM Modi wrote on XnbspIn an official statement the Bureau of the Royal Household stated that a team of doctors who had been providing treatment to the Queen Mother at the hospital since September 7 2019 found that she was suffering from several illnesses and abnormalities across multiple bodily systems which required continuous medical attention Xinhua News agency reportedThailands Queen Mother contracted a bloodstream infection on October 17 according to the physicians Despite the efforts made by the medical team her condition deteriorated and she passed away peacefully at 921 pm local time on FridaynbspThailands King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua has ordered the relevant bureau to make arrangements for the Queen Mothers royal funeral Her remains will be enshrined at the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in the Grand Palace in Bangkok The King also issued a decree declaring that a oneyear mourning period will be observed by members of the royal family and officials of the royal court from the date of the Queen Mothers passing https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-offers-condolences-on-demise-of-thailands-queen-mother-sirikit-645045.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/stronger-india-brazil-ties-to-give-global-south-a-bigger-say-645046.html New Delhi Oct 26 IANS India and Brazil are strengthening trade investment and energy ties as part of the BRICS bloc a move that is expected to boost the negotiating power of the Global South at a time when the turmoil over US tariffs has increased uncertainty in global tradenbspThe two countries have decided to go in for a substantial expansion of the agreement between India and MERCOSUR member states aiming for a significant share of the bilateral trade to benefit from tariff preferences according to a joint statement issued after a meeting held here between the Vice President of Brazil Geraldo Alckmin and Indias Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush GoyalThe agreement between India and MERCOSUR comprising Brazil Argentina Bolivia Paraguay and Uruguay was signed on June 17 2003 with the aim of strengthening relations and promoting the expansion of tradenbspAccording to the joint statement the expansion of the agreement should cover both tariff and nontariff issues related to trade and economic partnershipnbspAnalysts say the push is not just about shielding their economies from punitive US tariffs but also about asserting influence on multilateral issues ranging from energy security to global climate policy according to an article in the South China Morning Posts publication This Week in AsiaBrazil is Indias largest trade partner in South America and the two countries agreed to raise bilateral trade to 20 billion by 2030 from 12 billion last yearnbspThis is a partnership of weight and complementarity There is a reason to be together because their interests coincide but it is also in the interest of humankind Manjeev Puri Indias former ambassador to the European Union told This Week in AsianbspBoth countries were strong advocates for protecting the interests of developing nations in the Global South he saidnbspBrazil has helped the Global South by raising issues such as food security and health at multilateral forums including BRICS and G20 while India has provided digital infrastructure sharing humanitarian aid and supported the inclusion of the African Union into the G20Besides being founding members of BRICSa bloc of major emerging national economies that includes Russia China and South AfricaIndia and Brazil are also part of a trilateral grouping called the IndiaBrazilSouth Africa Dialogue Forum that seeks to promote cooperation in various sectorsnbspIt is in our national interest that we will be with Brazil no matter that there are strong headwinds from the US in particular Puri saidnbspExperts say there are several possible areas for deeper bilateral cooperation Brazils pioneering efforts in developing sugar canebased biofuels could be important for Indias own push to increase use of ethanol to trim crude oil imports which have historically been the biggest drag on its foreign exchange Puri notedAviation could be another sector experts say Brazilian aerospace major Embraer inaugurated its office in Delhi to strengthen its presence in Indias commercial aviation sector The Indian Air Force and the commercial airline Star Air already use Embraer aircraftnbspBrazils Vice President also met Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh PurinbspWas pleased to meet Geraldo Alckmin Vice President and Minister of Development Industry Trade and Services of Brazil during his visit to India Our conversation focused on the expanding energy partnership between India and Brazil from robust bilateral trade in hydrocarbons and longterm crude supply contracts with Petrobras to Indian investments worth over USD 35 billion in Brazils upstream sector making it Indias largest investment destination in the Americas Puri said after the meetingThe minister further stated that discussions also took place on opportunities for collaboration in exploration and production Indias participation in upcoming offshore projects and mutual prospects in deep and ultradeepwater activitiesnbspAlckmin also held a meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Brazilian Defence Minister Jose Mucio Monteiro Filho was also present during the interactionnbspIndia and Brazil share a strategic partnership The leaders reviewed the entire range of multifaceted relations in the defence sector between the two countriesnbspThey also exchanged views on areas of mutual interest covering militarytomilitary and defence industrial cooperation including joint exercises and training visitsnbspThe leaders reviewed the progress of ongoing defencerelated initiatives and identified priority areas for joint work including exploring opportunities for codevelopment and coproduction of defence equipment the Ministry of Defence said in a statement https://dailyworld.in/national/stronger-india-brazil-ties-to-give-global-south-a-bigger-say-645046.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-omar-abdullahs-statement-to-step-down-on-statehood-demand-stirs-speculation-in-jk-645047.html Srinagar Oct 26 IANS Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Sunday that he would resign as the CM if statehood was not restored in a finite periodnbspIn an interview with NDTV Omar Abdullah has said that he would resign as the chief minister if statehood was not restorednbspThe statement assumes significance for more than one reason as it comes in the aftermath of alleged crossvoting in the recently concluded Rajya Sabha elections in which four seats were won by the National Conference NC and one by the Bharatiya Janata Party BJPThe BJP victory on the 4th seat has come as a surprise to Omar Abdullah and his party as he had said with confidence that the NC would win all four seatsnbspOmar Abdullah has now said that no MLA from the NC went against the party whip and all of them voted for the four NC candidates Mohammad Ramzan Chowdhary Sajad Kichloo Shami Oberoi and Imran Nabi DarnbspImran Nabi Dar lost to BJPs JampampK president Sat Sharma contesting for the 4th Rajya Sabha seat Omar Abdullah has been accusing those MLAs belonging to nonNC political parties of having declared support for NC but finally voting for the BJP candidate on the 4th seatThe BJP candidate got 32 votes against 22 taken by the NC candidate on the 4th seatnbspThe BJP had 28 votes of its own on the 4th seat and Omar Abdullah and other leaders now want to know which four MLAs voted for the BJP for this seatnbspThe NC was depending on the support of six Congress MLAs one CPIM MLA five Independents one of the Awami Ittehad Party AIP and one of the Aam Aadmi Party AAP on the 4th seatnbspSajad Lone chief of Peoples Conference PC and MLA from the Handwara constituency had chosen to stay away from the Rajya Sabha polls but after the results were out Sajad stirred the Hornets nest by saying that the NC had gifted seven MLAs to the BJP in a fixed match to ensure the victory of the BJP candidateOmar Abdullah took exception to Sajad Lones comment and said that after abstaining from voting Sajad should not talk like a professor teaching political lessons to othersnbspIn the 2024 Assembly polls NC won 42 BJP 29 Congress 6 PDP 3 CPIM 1 AIP 1 PC 1 AAP 1 and 6 Independents also won One of the Independents later joined the NC while the Congress chose to support the NC government from outside without joining itnbspIn the 90member Legislative Assembly to form the government a simple majority of 46 is needed to form the government Two seats of Nagrota and Budgam are presently vacant as these two Assembly constituencies go to bypolls on November 11On its own NC has 42 seats including the one independent who joined the NC later this time and it has the support of one CPIM MLA and six Congress MLAsnbspAAP MLA Mehraj Malik presently in detention initially supported the NC government but later withdrew his supportnbspA political debate of sorts is doing the rounds in JampampK now whether the latest statement by Omar Abdullah threatening to resign if statehood is not restored in the near future owes itself to NCs statehood restoration commitment or the fear that the future could upset the numbers equations in the JampampK assembly One would not have to wait long for the rabbit to come out of the bag either way https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-omar-abdullahs-statement-to-step-down-on-statehood-demand-stirs-speculation-in-jk-645047.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/life-of-sant-namdev-ji-reflects-love-devotion-equality-says-haryana-cm-645049.html Chandigarh Oct 26 IANS The life of Sant Namdevji Maharaj reflects love devotion and equality as he worked to unite society by eliminating discrimination untouchability and inequality said Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on SundaynbspPresiding over the statelevel event dedicated to Sant Namdevji Maharaj in Hisar under the SantMahapurush Vichar Samman and Prasar Yojana an initiative of the government aimed at spreading the teachings of saints and great personalities CM Saini announced that in response to peoples requests a government institution would be named after Sant Namdev MaharajCM Saini declared a grant of Rs 51 lakh for the upkeep of various dharamshalas managed by the community and for installing solar panelsnbspHe said the land would be allotted as per norms if the community applies for plots in Bhiwani Panipat and NarnaulnbspIn addition the Chief Minister said other demands would be forwarded to the departments concerned for implementationnbspThe Chief Minister said that Sant Namdevji saw divinity in every individual and worked tirelessly to eradicate social evils such as casteism untouchability and inequalityHe said the true religion connects humanity and teaches compassion for others He added Sant Namdevjis message of hard work devotion and honesty is deeply rooted in Haryanas social fabricnbspThe states working class farmers artisans tailors blacksmiths and all hardworking people embody his spirit through their dedication and worknbspThe Chief Minister said the government guided by its commitment to harmony goodwill equitable growth unity and tolerance has introduced reforms that have made life simpler easier and safer for the common citizenPeople no longer need to visit multiple offices to access government services In todays Haryana the hopes and aspirations of ordinary citizens are being fulfilled and their dreams are turning into reality Inspired by the teachings of saints and great personalities the state government remains dedicated to the welfare and upliftment of every section of society he saidnbspIts foremost objective is to improve the living standards of the poorest ensuring that the benefits of development reach the last person added the Chief Minister https://dailyworld.in/national/life-of-sant-namdev-ji-reflects-love-devotion-equality-says-haryana-cm-645049.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/waqf-act-will-be-thrown-into-dustbin-if-india-bloc-voted-to-power-in-bihar-tejashwi-645050.html KatiharKishanganjAraria Oct 26 If the INDIA bloc is voted to power in Bihar the Waqf Amendment Act would be thrown into the dustbin the opposition coalitions CM candidate Tejashwi Yadav said on SundaynbspAddressing backtoback public rallies in the Muslimdominated Katihar Kishanganj and Araria districts Yadav said his father Lalu Prasad the RJD chief never compromised with communal forces in the countrynbspBut Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has always supported such forces and it is because of him that the RSS and its affiliates are spreading communal hatred in the state as well as in the country The BJP should be called Bharat Jalao Party If the INDIA bloc comes to power in the state we will throw the Waqf Act into the dustbin he saidThe Waqf Amendment Act was passed by Parliament in April The ruling BJPled NDA has hailed the law as a step towards transparency and empowerment for backward Muslims and women in the community while the opposition has criticised it alleging that it infringes upon the rights of MuslimsnbspOn Saturday RJD MLC Mohammad Qari Sohaib stirred a controversy by stating that if Yadav becomes the CM of Bihar all bills will be torn apart including the Waqf bill inviting a barrage of attacks from their opposition who questioned how a central law could be changed by the chief minister of a stateWithout naming Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor Yadav alleged Some people are trying to divide votes by fielding candidates forcefully but people should not pay attention to such candidates He claimed that this election is a fight to protect the Constitution democracy and brotherhoodnbspPeople of the state are tired of the 20yearold Nitish Kumar government Nitish Kumar has become like stagnant water which has stopped flowing Its stinking now Therefore in that case this NDA government should be thrown out he claimednbspThe CM is not in his senses Corruption is rampant in each and every department of the government The law and order situation has completely collapsed in the state he allegedYadav claimed that the NDA government has done nothing for the development of the Seemanchal region comprising Purnia Araria Kishnaganj and Katihar districtsnbspIf we come to power we will set up the Seemanchal Development Authority for the overall development of the region A worldclass university will be built here besides a superspeciality hospital and a centre of the Aligarh Muslim University he saidnbspYadav alleged that even after Kumar as CM for 20 years and Narendra Modi as PM for 11 years Bihar has remained the most backward and poor state in the countrySeemachal is the poorest region of the state This is the time to teach them a lesson he addednbspThe RJD leader alleged that the NDA government was copying the election promises he was makingnbspWe promised an increase in the oldage pension The Nitish Kumar government increased it from Rs 400 per month to Rs 1100 per month I promise we will increase it to Rs 2000 per month he saidnbspYadav also hit back at Union Home Minister Amit ShahnbspA few days ago when Amit Shah came to Bihar he was threatening us that he wouldnt leave us in a condition to contest elections I will fight and I will win We are Biharis true Biharis we do not fear outsiders Ek Bihari sab pe bhari one Bihari is stronger than everyone else he said https://dailyworld.in/national/waqf-act-will-be-thrown-into-dustbin-if-india-bloc-voted-to-power-in-bihar-tejashwi-645050.html Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/raua-sab-par-chhathi-maiya-ke-kripa-banal-rahe-up-cm-yogi-wishes-mothers-sisters-observing-chhath-puja-644866.html New Delhi Oct 25 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday shared a video message on the occasion of Chhath Puja extending greetings to all devotees He said Raua Sab Par Chhathi Maiya Ke Kripa Banal Rahe May Chhathi Maiyas blessings be upon you all Taking to his official social media handle X CM Yogi said I extend my heartfelt greetings to everyone on Chhath Puja Raua Sab Par Chhathi Maiya Ke Kripa Banal Rahe My special wishes to all mothers and sisters who observe this difficult fast for the wellbeing of their familiesDescribing the significance of the festival he added Chhath Puja is the confluence of faith and discipline Through Surya Upasana worship of the Sun God it conveys a message of light energy and balance This is not merely a festival it is the soul of our culture May all devotees observing the fast be blessed with success health wealth and happiness Let this sacred tradition continue for generations to comeEarlier in the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to devotees across the country on the occasion of Nahay Khaay marking the beginning of the fourdaylong Chhath pujaTaking to social media platform X Prime Minister Modi said The fourdaylong Chhath festival begins today with the sacred rituals of bathing and eating My heartfelt greetings to devotees across the country including Bihar My salutations and respect to all those observing the fastThis grand festival of our culture symbolizes simplicity and restraint its purity and adherence to discipline are incomparable The scenes witnessed at the Chhath Ghats on this sacred occasion offer a wonderful inspiration for family and social harmony The ancient tradition of Chhath has had a profound impact on our society PM Modi addedHe further wished that Chhathi Maiya bestows her bountiful blessings on everyoneToday Chhath is celebrated as a major cultural festival in every corner of the world Indian families living around the world participate wholeheartedly in its traditions I wish that Chhathi Maiya bestows her bountiful blessings on everyone he saidPM Modi further said that Chhath Mahaparva is a unique confluence of faith worship and love for natureChhath Mahaparva is a unique confluence of faith worship and love for nature While offerings are made to the setting and rising Sun the offerings also incorporate the diverse colours of nature The songs and melodies of Chhath Puja are also imbued with a unique sense of devotion and love for nature PM Modi saidHe further remembered that Bihars Nightingale late Sharda Sinha had a close relationship with BegusaraiI was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit Begusarai just yesterday Bihars Nightingale Sharda Sinha had a close relationship with Begusarai Sharda Sinha and many other folk artists from Bihar have added a unique touch to the Chhath festival through their songs PM Modi addedPM Modi further shared a song of Sharda Sinha who had died during the Chhath festival last yearToday on this great festival I am sharing with you all such songs of Chhathi Maiya listening to which everyone will be mesmerised he addedOn the first day devotees known as Vratis people who are fasting take a holy dip in rivers or ponds and consume a simple sattvic having qualities of purity harmony and balance meal of arwa chawal plain rice and lauki ki sabzi bottle gourd curry after offering prayers Other traditional foods like chana dal amla chutney and papad are prepared and later served as prasad ritual food offeringMass gatherings are expected across various bathing ghats across the country where thousands of devotees will participate in the rituals with unwavering faithWith roots tracing back to the Satyuga and Dwapara Yuga Chhath Puja is regarded as one of the oldest forms of Sun worship Devotees observe strict fasting abstaining from food and water for extended periods to express devotion and seek blessings of prosperity health and happiness Worshipping Surya during Chhath is believed to dispel negativity and usher in peace and positivityChhath Puja is one of the most significant Hindu festivals primarily observed in Bihar Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh It is also celebrated in parts of Nepal and among Indian communities across the world IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/raua-sab-par-chhathi-maiya-ke-kripa-banal-rahe-up-cm-yogi-wishes-mothers-sisters-observing-chhath-puja-644866.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 17:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rave-party-serving-liquor-in-dry-state-gujarat-raided-15-detained-644874.html Ahmedabad Oct 25 Police raided a rave party in Gujarats Ahmedabad leading to the detention of 15 people who were consuming alcohol in the dry state The Bopal Police acted after receiving a tipoff about the party at Zephyr Farmhouse near Shilaj where both liquor and drugs were reportedly being usedUpon reaching the venue police found 15 individuals including 13 foreign nationals from Nigeria Mozambique Kenya and other African countries alongside two Indians intoxicatedInvestigations revealed that the organisers had printed special passes for the party advertising unlimited alcohol showing the scale and planning behind the eventAll 15 attendees have been detained a case has been registered and further inquiries are underway to identify the main organisers the farmhouse owner and the source of the liquor in a state where alcohol is bannedGujarat has maintained a strict prohibition on alcohol since 1960 under the Gujarat Prohibition Act 1949 which bans the sale consumption and manufacture of liquor across the stateThe law applies to all forms of alcoholic beverages including Indianmade foreign liquor IMFL countrymade liquor and spirits Exceptions exist only for medicinal industrial and export purposes subject to government permission Violations of the Act carry severe penalties including imprisonment fines and seizure of property involved in the illegal tradeDespite Gujarats strict prohibition laws the illegal liquor trade remains a significant issueIn 2024 authorities seized approximately 82 lakh bottles of liquor valued at Rs 144 crore across the state Ahmedabad alone accounted for over 438 lakh bottles with 2139 cases involving IMFL and 7796 cases related to countrymade liquor Notably the State Monitoring Cell SMC registered 455 cases confiscating liquor worth Rs 225 crore and total items valued at nearly Rs 52 croreIn a significant operation the SMC seized over 8500 bottles of foreignmade liquor worth Rs 119 crore in Chotila taluka SurendranagarAdditionally in a midsea raid off Una Rajkot authorities intercepted a boat carrying liquor worth Rs 25 lakhThese seizures reflect ongoing efforts to combat the illegal liquor trade which often involves smuggling from neighbouring states like Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rave-party-serving-liquor-in-dry-state-gujarat-raided-15-detained-644874.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 17:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-harmonises-customs-exemption-framework-to-boost-ease-of-doing-biz-effective-from-nov-1-644876.html New Delhi Oct 25 The government has issued a new notification towards bringing a major reform in the customs exemption framework towards ease of doing business The new notification by Ministry of Finance Department of Revenue rationalises and harmonises existing customs duty exemptions across various sectors The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs CBIC has consolidated 31 separate Customs Duty notifications into a single comprehensive document The sectors covered include renewable energy metals fertilisers agriculture pharmaceuticals electronic components etcEffective from November 1 2025 the notification consolidates a wide range of legacy notifications into a single unified structure while providing conditional exemptions on customs duties Integrated GST and compensation cess where applicableThe Notification No 442025Customs dated 24th October 2025 amends several existing Customs notifications in the public interest The new consolidated notification effectively merges all relevant exemptions and procedural details into a single framework thus eliminating redundancy while preserving the substance of existing benefitsThe amendments affect key notifications governing customs exemptions and procedural frameworks including Notification Nos 112018Customs 82020Customs 112021Customs and 522017Customs The current changes bolster the governments effort to harmonise customs provisions with ongoing budgetary and policy adjustments under the Integrated and Goods and Services Tax framework Earlier this month the CBIC introduced systembased autoapproval for IFSC code registration to enhance the ease of doing businessThe system will automatically approve requests for registration of the same incentive bank account and IFSC code for a particular Importer Exporter Code IEC at multiple Customs locations provided the same combination has already been approved at any one location The move comes as part of the CBICs initiatives to leverage technology to simplify procedures reduce transaction costs and enhance the ease of doing business for Indias trade community the statement added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-harmonises-customs-exemption-framework-to-boost-ease-of-doing-biz-effective-from-nov-1-644876.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 17:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/accused-should-be-shot-in-front-of-hospital-rg-kar-victims-father-on-mumbai-doctor-suicide-644880.html Kolkata Oct 25 The father of an RG Kar victim on Saturday reacted to the Satara doctors suicide in Maharashtra saying the accused should be shot in front of the hospital so that such incidents do not recur Speaking to IANS he said What the accused have done is wrong and there should be strict action against them Wherever the incident happened outside that hospital the accused should be shotHe added A clear message must be sent that such acts will not be tolerated and should not be repeated in the future There should be an encounter in this caseHe also criticised the Womens Commission which filed a suo motu case saying They do nothing they only come and file cases They visited our case as well but nothing happenedMeanwhile police in Maharashtras Satara district arrested one accused on Saturday in connection with the death of the female doctor who allegedly committed suicide after being repeatedly raped by a police officer and being pressurised by an MP to falsify medical reports of the accused in casesAccording to officials the arrested person has been identified as Prashant Bankar the son of the doctors landlord whose name was mentioned in her fourpage suicide noteThe deceased doctor a native of Beed district was posted as a medical officer at a government hospital in Phaltan Satara On Thursday night she was found hanging in a hotel room under mysterious circumstances Shockingly she had written a suicide note on her palm naming SubInspector Gopal Badane and Prashant Bankar accusing the police officer of rape and Prashant of mental harassmentAfter Prashants arrest police said he will be produced before the court and his custody will be sought for further investigation Meanwhile SubInspector Badane has been suspended and a detailed enquiry is underway Both accused have been booked at the Phaltan Police Station Satara SP Tushar Doshi confirmed that the rape allegations and Prashants role are being thoroughly investigatedThe female doctor who allegedly committed suicide left behind a detailed fourpage suicide note apart from the inked note on the palm of her hand stating that a police officer raped her four times and exerted pressure on her to issue fake fitness certificates for accused persons in police cases It has now emerged in her note that she was allegedly under pressure not only from police officials but also from a Member of Parliament MP and his personal assistantsShe had complained 21 times to various authorities but no action was taken against her tormentorsRecounting a particular instance in her note the doctor said she had refused to issue a certificate and two personal assistants of an MP had come to the hospital and made her speak to him over the phone She stated in her note that during that conversation the MP had threatened her indirectlyHer cousin also made similar allegations about the doctor being made to falsify medical certificates IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/accused-should-be-shot-in-front-of-hospital-rg-kar-victims-father-on-mumbai-doctor-suicide-644880.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sikkim-up-biodiversity-panels-get-rs-183-lakh-under-benefit-sharing-mechanism-644881.html New Delhi Oct 25 Recognising and rewarding local communities for acting as custodians of biological heritage the National Biodiversity Authority NBA has released Rs 183 lakh to Biodiversity Management Committees in UP and Sikkim an official said on Saturday The funds represent the access and benefitsharing mechanism under the framework of the Biological Diversity Act 2002 said the Environment Ministry official in a statementThese funds will be utilised for activities outlined under Section 44 of the Act and the relevant State Biodiversity Rules the statement saidBy transferring these funds the NBA is empowering these local custodians to lead a role in biodiversity conservation and the sustainable management of their resources Also the fund transfer is aimed at promoting fair and equitable benefitsharing said the statementThe funds were seamlessly transferred through the respective State Biodiversity Boards directly to two BMCs namely Narrau village Biodiversity Management Committee located in Akrabad Kaul Taluk Aligarh District Uttar Pradesh and Biodiversity Management Committee in the Lampokhari Lake Area Aritar SikkimA company accessed crop materials within the Narrau village for producing fermentable compounds from lignocellulosic biomass Another company accessed microorganisms from water and soil samples collected in the Lampokhari Lake area for research purpose said the statementEarlier the NBA released Rs 136 crore sharing the benefits of commercial use of biodiversity to local communities in Maharashtra and Uttar PradeshThis financial support was routed through the State Biodiversity Boards of Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh to three Biodiversity Management Committees BMCs Sakharwadi village Phaltan Taluk Satara District Maharashtra Kunjirwadi village Haveli Taluk Pune Maharashtra and the Kasganj area Etah District Uttar Pradesh according to a statement from the Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate ChangeEach BMC will receive Rs 4550 lakh This initiative underscores the governments unwavering commitment to the principles of equity sustainability and conservationThe released funds represent a tangible Access and Benefit Sharing ABS payment following the commercial use of microorganisms sourced from soil and industrial effluent samples for producing fructooligosaccharide products IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sikkim-up-biodiversity-panels-get-rs-183-lakh-under-benefit-sharing-mechanism-644881.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/e-bill-module-law-ministry-eyes-digitisation-of-advocate-fee-disbursal-644882.html New Delhi Oct 25 The Department of Legal Affairs Law and Justice Ministry has launched an initiative to enable the digitisation of the entire process of advocate fee disbursal and forms a statement said on Saturday Earlier payment of fees to advocates involved physical processing manual verification and submission of hard copies to the Pay and Accounts Office often resulting in delays and paperintensive workflows The enhanced eBill module now enables endtoend electronic processing of fee disbursals to Law Officers and Panel Advocates said the Law and Justice MinistryThe enhanced eBill module now enables endtoend electronic processing of fee disbursals to Law Officers and Panel Advocates eliminating manual paperwork and delays that previously characterised the system it saidThe Ministry of Law and Justice said it has achieved a major milestone in procedural simplification by integrating the Legal Information Management and Briefing System LIMBS with the Public Financial Management System PFMSThis reform is enabling digitisation of the entire process of advocate fee disbursal and forms an important component of the Governments broader initiatives of Ease of Doing Business and Digital India it saidWith further enhancements in the eBill module bills generated by Law Officers and Panel Advocates on the LIMBS platform are now also seamlessly transmitted to PFMS for digital verification sanction and payment it saidThe integration has made the entire process paperless reducing processing time enabling realtime bill tracking and eliminating human errorEach claim generates a Claim Reference Number CRN enabling administrative units to track progress in real time Once verified and digitally signed by the Drawing and Disbursing Officer DDO payments are released directly to the beneficiarys bank account through PFMS without any physical file movement said the statementThe Central Agency Section CAS of the Department of Legal Affairs implemented the eBill module for panel advocate payments through LIMBS in February 2025 and the Department is now preparing to extend the system to other litigation units including the Delhi High Court it saidA proposal for creating a Retainer Fee Module within LIMBS to cover Law Officers periodic payments is also being considered for implementation IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/e-bill-module-law-ministry-eyes-digitisation-of-advocate-fee-disbursal-644882.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/such-arrangements-for-the-first-time-passengers-on-special-trains-on-chhath-puja--644884.html New Delhi Oct 25 Delhis Anand Vihar railway station witnessed a massive crowd of passengers on Saturday ahead of the Chhath festival Excitement filled the air as people prepared to travel to their hometowns in Bihar Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh to celebrate and worship Chhath Puja with their families The fourday Chhath festival began on October 25 with NahayKhaay marking the start of the festivitiesPassengers at Anand Vihar railway station expressed satisfaction with the arrangements made by Indian Railways Separate ticket counters were set up making it easier for passengers to purchase tickets while security was tightened RPF personnel were seen assisting passengers and guiding them about ticketing and boarding detailsSpeaking to IANS passenger Mohan Rai said Everything is very comfortable We are getting great facilities here I want to thank the police and railway authorities for this arrangementAnother passenger Rajan added I am going to Bihar The facilities are excellent I have never seen such an arrangement beforeTo manage the surge in passenger traffic the Indian Railways has made elaborate preparations Special trains additional coaches and several passengerfriendly measures were introduced on major routes and at key stations A roundtrip Chhath Puja Special train has also been scheduled between Rani Kamlapati and Hazrat NizamuddinThis special train will comprise 22 LHB coaches including two Second AC three Third AC six Economy Third AC five Sleeper four General Class one SLRD and one generator carAccording to the Railways Ministry around 6181 special trains have been planned for October 28 to facilitate passengers returning to their workplaces after the festive season In total over 12000 special trains are being operated across the country with more than 900 additional trips scheduled in the next three days to manage the festival rushChhath Puja is one of the most significant Hindu festivals primarily celebrated in Bihar Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh It is also observed in parts of Nepal and among Indian communities worldwide Dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and his sister Chhathi Maiya the festival signifies purity gratitude and the wellbeing of ones family IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/such-arrangements-for-the-first-time-passengers-on-special-trains-on-chhath-puja--644884.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-sonu-nigam-arrives-in-srinagar-to-enthral-fans-644885.html Srinagar Oct 25 Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam arrived here on Saturday for October 26 musical concert on the banks of the Dal Lake in JampKs Srinagar city The concert being held at the ShereKashmir International Convention Centre SKICC by the banks of the Dal Lake tomorrow will be a tribute to the legendary singer late Mohammad RafiThis is going to be the first major musical event in Kashmir after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 by Pakistanbacked LashkareTaiba LeT terroristsOrganised by NDTV Good Times the musical bonanza will feature Sonu Nigams voice blending modern energy with the timeless melodies of Mohammad RafiThe concert will be open to all ages with tickets available on the official website of wwwdistrictineventssonunigamlivetributetomohammedrafi2025buyticketsThose desirous of attending the concert can also visit the SKICC venue for tickets and more detailsIt is more special because we have not seen the celebration of 100 years of the late Mohammed Rafi Sahab at Dal Lake Can you imagineThe whole World knows my connection with my peer my guru and my inspiration but celebrating his legacy at Dal Lake in Kashmir celebrating the zest of Kashmir will be really wonderful and special Looking forward to seeing you all there Sonu Nigam has saidThe concert is slated to last approximately 5 hours and 30 minutesSrinagarbased Qazi Touqueer who won the reality show Fame Gurukul in 2005 will be the opening act at the Sonu Nigam Live On Dal Lake concertLimited free parking will be available at the venue and visitors are advised to arrive early to avoid congestionThere is no dress code and the venue is wheelchair accessible ensuring an inclusive and comfortable experience for all attendeesA variety of food beverages and drinks will be available for purchase at the venue Reentry will not be permitted once you exit so guests should plan their movements accordingly IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jampk-sonu-nigam-arrives-in-srinagar-to-enthral-fans-644885.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/name-the-site-for-industries-well-acquire-land-dks-to-union-minister-kumaraswamy-644886.html Bengaluru Oct 25 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has said that Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy should tell the state government the sites where industries are to be set up adding that the land acquisition process will begin accordingly Let Kumaraswamy tell us where he plans to bring industries Wherever he names well begin the land acquisition process there said Shivakumar Speaking to the media on Saturday at Bharat Nagar Gandhi Park in Herohalli Yeshwanthpur constituency the state Congress president responded to various questions from reportersWhen asked about JDS allegation of corruption in converting A Khata and B Khata property documents he said I have been inviting everyone for an open discussion What corruption is taking place in A KhataB Khata conversions Our goal is to regularise property records for Bengaluru citizens so they can access bank loans and other facilities pay taxes properly and receive better civic amenitiesThis initiative is our sixth guarantee No other city in India has implemented such a project in fact the central government has awarded us for it Thousands have already applied Why didnt they previous governments digitize property records during their tenure Why didnt they implement EKhata They had no such visionHe further said Union Minister Kumaraswamy keeps saying hell bring industries fine let him bring them Whether its in Ramanagara Bidadi or Mandya let him list the locations If he submits applications for the required land well proceed But just empty talk wont convince anyoneOn the reported clash between Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar and former MP Pratap Simha Shivakumar said I will not intervene in that issue If its about development Ill talk otherwise I wontAsked if MLA ST Somashekar is joining Congress he said Leave that aside Hes doing his duty as an MLA thats enoughSpeaking about his Bengaluru Walk programme he said This area was developed about 25 years ago Now congestion has increased and most residents are middleclass There are several basic infrastructure issues here Hundreds of people came and shared their problems Ill return on another day to spend more time with them he saidHundreds of people from the area have come and poured out their woes and I will come here another time he statedThese areas were established 15 to 20 years ago These areas have more pressure as mostly middleclass people are residing here New people have settled here and Kempegowda Layout is close by The area is facing issues regarding infrastructure and I have kept everything in mind Shivakumar stated IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/name-the-site-for-industries-well-acquire-land-dks-to-union-minister-kumaraswamy-644886.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/final-phase-of-rte-admissions-in-tamil-nadu-to-begin-on-oct-30-644887.html Chennai Oct 25 The School Education Department has announced that the final phase of admissions under the Right to Education RTE Act will commence across Tamil Nadu on October 30 marking a crucial step in ensuring equitable access to education for all children School Education Department Secretary B Chandra Mohan said that 7717 schools have registered under the RTE quota this year receiving 81927 applications for LKG and 89 applications for Class 1 for the academic year 202526The enrolment is being conducted under the 25 per cent reservation mandated by the RTE Act which guarantees free and compulsory education to children from economically weaker sectionsAccording to the schedule eligible students will be admitted on October 30 in schools where the number of applicants does not exceed the available seatsIn cases where the number of applications surpasses the seats a draw of lots will be conducted on October 31 following which the selected students will be enrolledOnce the process concludes all admitted children will be officially tagged under the RTE quota in the Education Management Information System EMIS portal ensuring transparency and monitoring throughout the academic yearChandra Mohan reiterated that schools are strictly prohibited from collecting any form of tuition or admission fees from students admitted under the RTE categoryIf any fees have already been collected they must be refunded within seven working days he emphasisedTo ensure smooth implementation districtlevel monitoring committees have been directed to oversee the process and a State helpline has been set up to assist parents and address grievancesThe state government remains fully committed to upholding every childs constitutional right to free and compulsory education Chandra Mohan saidThe RTE 25 per cent admission process will continue to be conducted in a transparent equitable and childcentred manner across Tamil NaduOfficials added that this years RTE admissions have seen an encouraging response from parents across the state reflecting growing awareness of the schemes benefits and the governments sustained efforts to make quality education accessible to all IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/final-phase-of-rte-admissions-in-tamil-nadu-to-begin-on-oct-30-644887.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/seshasayee-paper-q2-net-profit-falls-21-pc-to-rs-224-crore-644889.html Mumbai Oct 25 Seshasayee Paper and Boards Ltd reported a 213 per cent yearonyear YoY decline in consolidated net profit for the second quarter of FY26 as per a regulatory filing on Saturday The companys net profit stood at Rs 224 crore down from Rs 285 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous yearMeanwhile Revenue from operations also fell 131 per cent to Rs 3463 crore compared to Rs 3985 crore in the same period last yearEarnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation EBITDA came in at Rs 263 crore a 144 per cent decrease from Rs 307 crore a year earlierThe EBITDA margin for the quarter stood at 76 per cent marginally lower than 77 per cent in the yearago quarterDuring the quarter the company invested Rs 26 crore in a special purpose vehicle SPV to acquire a 261 per cent equity stake in line with the terms of its investment agreementSeshasayee Paper and Boards Ltd is a leading manufacturer of writing and printing paperMeanwhile Seshasayee Paper and Boards shares closed slightly higher on Friday ahead of the Q2 result announcement The scrip ended the session at Rs 2560 up 020 per cent In the last five days the stock jumped nearly 15 per cent however in the last 30 days it remained flat This year till date the stock has plunged over 18 per cent and in a year the shares of the company fell 14 per centSeshasayee Paper and Boards Limited SPB the flagship company of the SPBESVIN Group owns and operates an integrated pulp paper and paperboard mill at Pallipalayam in Erode Tamil Nadu and another paper mill in Tirunelveli District Tamil NaduIncorporated in June 1960 SPB was promoted in association with its foreign collaborator Ms Parsons and Whittemore USA IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/seshasayee-paper-q2-net-profit-falls-21-pc-to-rs-224-crore-644889.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/as-trump-embarks-on-asia-tour-world-awaits-outcome-from-xi-talks-and-if-he-indeed-will-meet-kim-again-644890.html New Delhi Oct 25 United States President Donald Trumps current visit to three Asian destinations will be followed by the global community with a mixed bag of expectations The fiveday trip begins with Malaysia where the President is expected to land on Sunday morning for the AESAN Summit followed by visits to Japan and South Korea But the highlight of his visit may be marked with a facetoface meeting with President Xi Jinping of China amidst the ongoing trade tariff tensions And during that last leg of his trip though not part of the official schedule if he does meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as he did in his earlier term that will hog international headlines over the restThe earlier encounters which included three summit meetings between 2018 and 2019 plus highprofile public gestures had turned into muchtalked international events The most vivid example remains their impromptu June 30 2019 meeting at the Demilitarised Zone DMZ in Panmunjom After what seemed a brief moment of hesitation where Trump asked if he could step across the demarcating line the US President did cross a few steps onto North Korean soil That made Trump the first sitting US President to set foot on North Korean territoryThe world watched Trump joked and bantered with Kim while media coverage emphasised the optics The handshake and the gesture of walking across the border was taken as evidence of a personal rapport that could break longstanding diplomatic logjamsMeanwhile according to South Koreas unification minister Chung Dongyoung Trump and Kim should make a bold decision to meet facetoface again said reports The US President himself told reporters onboard Air Force One as he departed for the visit that he was open to it meeting the North Korean leader adding that he had a great relationship with KimMedia reports late last month quoted the North Korean leader saying that he has good personal memories of Trump from their meetings and there is no reason to not resume dialogues But he did have a rider that the US needs to abandon its delusional obsession with denuclearisationAgain in South Korea Trumps meeting with Xi Jinping is scheduled to be held on the sidelines of the APEC meetings Their current dynamic is shaped by the tariff threats from Washington and Beijings retaliatory moves on export controls for critical inputs such as rareearth elementsBoth sides have reasons to deescalate economic slowdown risks domestic political calendars and the global costs of supplychain disruption yet both also see leverage in holding firm making outcomes fragile and incremental Their meeting can produce useful shortterm relief for markets and tactical concessions on highpriority items but durable peace in the economic sphere will require followthrough through enforceable agreements technical working groups and domestic political buyin on both sidesWhile the last leg of his tour at the end of this month may witness the highprofile encounters Trump may likely also showcase new trade deals push for credit for negotiating peace between Thailand and Cambodia and show that Washington still has sway in Southeast Asia a region where Beijing has growing clout He hopes to sign a trade agreement with Malaysia and witness a peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia that he has personally taken credit for brokeringIn Japan Trump will hold formal bilateral talks economic and security discussions and meet business delegations to press trade and investment objectives IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/as-trump-embarks-on-asia-tour-world-awaits-outcome-from-xi-talks-and-if-he-indeed-will-meet-kim-again-644890.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-rifles-recover-huge-arms-ammunition-in-mizoram-644891.html Aizawl Oct 25 The Assam Rifles have recovered a huge cache of arms ammunition in Mizoram officials said here on Saturday A defence spokesman said that based on specific intelligence inputs Assam Rifles launched a deliberate and wellcoordinated search operation on Friday at Saikhumpai areas in bordering Champhai District a hotspot of smuggling of various drugs and arms The operation was conducted with complete surprise and involved a sustained search through dense forested terrain During the search troops unearthed a concealed cache containing six 60mm Mortar Tubes with Base plates two 762mm Myanmarmade Assault Rifles three shotguns two point 22 Rifles and one Hand Grenade During the intensive search the troops also recovered 45 live rounds of 762mm 15 rounds of 60mm Mortar two AntiPersonnel Mines and two radio sets with antennas along with a charger Following the recovery the team carried out extensive area domination to verify any presence of underground cadres in the vicinity However no signs of underground movement were detected The recovered weapons ammunition were secured at the site and later handed over to the Mizoram Police for further investigation and legal proceedings Assam Rifles remains steadfast in its commitment to eliminating illegal arms networks and ensuring continued peace and security in Mizorams border areas an official statement said The paramilitary force guards the 1643kmlong IndiaMyanmar border along four Northeastern states Mizoram Arunachal Pradesh Manipur and Nagaland These unfenced frontiers serve as key illegal transit points for drugs particularly heroin and methamphetamine tablets as well as various arms entering India The Mizoram districts that border Myanmar are Champhai Siaha Lawngtlai Hnahthial Saitual and Serchhip These six districts share a combined border of 510 km with Myanmars Chin state which is a hub for smuggling of varied drugs arms and ammunition exotic wildlife animals and many other contraband through the Northeastern states IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-rifles-recover-huge-arms-ammunition-in-mizoram-644891.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/deeply-painful-mpca-condemns-molestation-of-australian-women-cricketers--644892.html Indore Oct 25 Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association MPCA on Saturday expressed profound dismay over the alleged molestation involving two Australian women cricketers in Indore No woman should have to endure such inappropriate behaviour We extend our deepest condolences to the affected players This incident is deeply painful not only for the players but for the entire sports community as well as for our state and city Mahanaaryaman Scindia President of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association MPCA posted on his XA shocking incident of alleged molestation involving two Australian women cricketers has sent ripples through the cricketing world and local community prompting swift arrests and strong condemnations from officials Scindia said that Madhya Pradesh especially Indore has always been renowned for the respect and safety of its guests The players staying at the premium Hotel for the Womens World Cup Cricket were reportedly harassed while walking to a nearby cafe casting a shadow over Madhya Pradeshs reputation for hospitality Scindia further lamented the damage to the citys image The inappropriate behaviour of one individual has tarnished this prestigious image leaving us all deeply saddened We commend the swift and firm action of the local administration and police who promptly identified and arrested the accused The MPCA stands in complete solidarity with the affected players and the Australian team during this difficult time and is committed to providing all possible cooperation to the investigating agencies According to police officials the incident occurred on Thursday when the two cricketers were approached by two young men on a motorcycle The suspects allegedly began harassing them verbally and physically before fleeing the scene Distressed the players immediately sent an SOS call to the hotel and team security Danny Simmons who alerted local authorities Police responded promptly identifying and arresting one of the accused 28yearold Aqueel Khan on Friday Investigations are going on to apprehend the second suspect Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya echoed the sentiment stating If this has happened it is shameful Strict action will be taken against those involved as this concerns the honour of our country He assured that the government would ensure justice and prevent such occurrences in the future The Australian team management has acknowledged the incident but declined further comment focusing on player welfare Cricket Australia is reportedly in touch with local organisers to bolster security measures for the remainder of the tournament This episode has sparked broader discussions on womens safety in public spaces particularly during highprofile international events Local residents and cricket enthusiasts in Indore have voiced support for the victims with many praising the rapid police response The MPCA has pledged enhanced protocols to safeguard all participants The arrested suspect faces charges under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code with a court appearance scheduled soon IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/deeply-painful-mpca-condemns-molestation-of-australian-women-cricketers--644892.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-bjp-seeks-probe-into-illegal-clearance-for-rs-2-000-crore-project-inside-pallikaranai-ramsar-site-644894.html Chennai Oct 25 Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson ANS Prasad has written to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav urging an immediate investigation and revocation of environmental clearances and building permissions granted for a Rs 2000crore housing project at Perumbakkam in Chennai In his detailed representation Prasad alleged that the 147acre project consisting of 1250 residential units lies within the boundaries of the Pallikaranai Marshland a Ramsarnotified wetland and ecologically sensitive zoneThe marshland spread over 3081 acres was officially declared a Ramsar site in April 2022 under the Wetlands Conservation and Management Rules 2017He said any form of permanent construction or alteration of the wetlands natural character is strictly prohibited under these rulesAccording to Prasad rights body Arappor Iyakkam had already submitted a 213page complaint on October 23 to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Chief Secretary and the Directorate of Vigilance and AntiCorruption DVAC alleging collusion between the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority SEIAA Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority CMDA Forest Department and Water Resources Department in granting approvals for the projectCiting key irregularities Prasad said the project proponents falsely claimed the site was located 12 km away from the marshland though it actually abuts survey number 5344 a documented marsh parcelDuring the SEACs 411th meeting in September 2023 the project was recorded as abutting the Ramsar site and was deferred for clarification on boundary coordinates and mitigation plansDespite this SEIAA granted environmental clearance File No 9462 on January 20 2025He also highlighted historical manipulation of land records dating back to 1911 through which portions of the original marshland survey number 430 were subdivided shrinking its extent from over 640 acres to barely six acres by 1993 thereby facilitating encroachmentsThese survey numbers are clearly within Ramsar boundaries as per Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority maps and CMDA influence zones he addedPrasad further pointed out that the CMDA granted building permission on January 23 2025 just days after the environmental clearance in violation of its own Office Order 72025 issued in September which prohibits any approval within Ramsar sites or their onekilometre bufferHe noted that the project is also listed on the Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority TNRERA website without addressing these violationsThe Pallikaranai marsh is Chennais natural sponge and its destruction will intensify future flooding This case represents not only an environmental crime but also a deep administrative failure Prasad saidHe urged the Union Environment Ministry to order an immediate probe under Section 3 of the Environment Protection Act 1986 into the roles of SEIAA CMDA and other state departments and to coordinate with the DVAC for corruption investigationsHe also demanded that all site activities be halted the environmental clearance and building approvals revoked and the encroached wetland areas restoredThe truth will emerge if the Ministry obtains Arappor Iyakkams complaint SEIAA minutes and Ramsar maps The project violates both national and international environmental laws Prasad stated calling for strong action against the officials and the developer involved IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-bjp-seeks-probe-into-illegal-clearance-for-rs-2-000-crore-project-inside-pallikaranai-ramsar-site-644894.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/greater-bengaluru-authority-will-continue-dks-responds-to-bjps-scrap-the-body-remark-644898.html Bengaluru Oct 25 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar responding to the BJPs statement that it would scrap the Greater Bengaluru Authority GBA if it comes to power stated that its not in the fate of the party to come to power He was responding to media questions on Saturday at Bharat Nagar Gandhi Park in Herohalli Yeshwanthpur constituency in BengaluruShivakumar said If they come to power they can do whatever they want But its not written in their fate that they will come to power and scrap the GBA This authority will continue If they dont want GBA let them boycott the upcoming municipal elections Lets see if they withdraw from contesting Their workers are already preparing to contestAsked about Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Suryas opposition to the tunnel road Shivakumar said Anyone can oppose anything I wont bother He has gone to court His intention is that the government should not earn goodwill by doing good work Im not acquiring any land for this projectOnly a small portion of land is acquired for the tunnel project Ill review it and if theres an issue well make alternative arrangements Lalbagh will not be disturbed in any way Well only use a small portion temporarily during construction and return it afterwardWhen told that Tejasvi Surya called Lalbagh a heritage site Shivakumar responded The tunnel road will be dug underground not above ground We cant stop the project just because of what he says If thats the case why are they digging and building tunnel roads in Mumbai and DelhiI will not yield to his words Let those who want to protest do so Criticisms will die good work will remain Were working for the people What good work did they do for Bengaluru during their term Tejasvi Surya is an empty trunk Shivakumar slammedAsked whether the tunnel road is being built only for the benefit of the rich he replied Yes its for those who will pay tolls and use it If they dont want this project ask them to come up with a plan to solve Bengalurus traffic congestion As the citys MP has he ever brought even Rs 10 of special funding for the citys development from the Prime MinisterDuring their rule what steps did they take to reduce traffic congestion Why couldnt they even issue tenders for garbage collection Why didnt they widen roads or build flyovers They did nothing for Bengaluru he questionedOne can still see dangling cable wires all over the city why didnt they BJP remove them They joined hands with mafias and ruined Bengaluru Thats why people supported our party and elected 140 MLAs to power Well continue doing our work with commitment Bengaluru is a global city and well do whatever it takes to protect it Shivakumar said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/greater-bengaluru-authority-will-continue-dks-responds-to-bjps-scrap-the-body-remark-644898.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 19:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/haryana-procures-5218-lakh-tonnes-paddy-cm-saini-says-govt-to-purchase-every-grain-644900.html Chandigarh Oct 25 After procuring 5218 lakh metric tonnes of paddy Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday said the government is committed to purchasing every grain of crops Both the Central and state governments under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi are working in the interest of farmers At present procurement of paddy and bajra crops is underway in the state he saidHowever those attempting to defraud the government under the pretext of procurement will not be spared under any circumstances CM Saini saidThe Chief Minister was chairing a highlevel review meeting to ensure transparency and smooth operations in paddy and bajra procurementOfficers from all departments concerned attended the meeting with all Deputy Commissioners and Police Superintendents joining virtuallyThe meeting reviewed arrangements related to the procurement the condition of mandis farmers complaints and the eprocurement systemThe Chief Minister was categorically clear in saying the government would not compromise on the interests of farmersCM Saini instructed that in cases where irregularities were found in eprocurement portal entries employees and officers have been suspendedThe Chief Minister emphasised that the government is determined to protect farmers earnings and purchase every grain of their produceOfficials reported that paddy procurement started on October 22 and in most markets it is proceeding smoothly So far procurement from 266 lakh farmers has resulted in approximately 5218 lakh metric tonnes of paddy being purchasedAround Rs 1020498 crore has been transferred to farmers accounts Procurement of bajra includes 29110 metric tonnes by state agencies and 399 lakh metric tonnes by private tradersThe officials also reported some complaints regarding paddy coming from other states and irregularities in gate pass scanning to which the government has taken a strict stancePhysical verification is being conducted for rice mills in Ambala Yamunanagar Kurukshetra and Kaithal where paddy has been allocated for millingTo prevent illegal entry of paddy from other states all border districts have been instructed to implement strict police checkpointsThe Chief Minister instructed district administration officers to regularly visit mandis and interact with farmers Rice mills allocated paddy should be physically verified periodically IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/haryana-procures-5218-lakh-tonnes-paddy-cm-saini-says-govt-to-purchase-every-grain-644900.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 19:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-cpi-wants-pm-shri-to-be-cancelled-govt-in-damage-control-mode-644906.html Thiruvananthapuram Oct 25 The CPI continues to demand that the Kerala government cancel its agreement to implement the PMSHRI scheme even after a highlevel meeting between CPI General Secretary D Raja and CPIM General Secretary MA Baby at AKG Bhavan in Delhi took place on Saturday Our position is clear the PMSHRI pact should be cancelled Raja said adding that the matter was discussed in detail and that the CPI expects CPIM to reconsider its stanceBaby said the state leadership of both parties will sort out the matterBack in Kerala State Education Minister V Sivankutty personally met CPI State Secretary Binoy Viswam at the MN Memorial to discuss the issueState Food Minister and top CPI leader GR Anil was also presentAfter the meeting Sivankutty confirmed that certain matters related to PMSHRI were discussed but declined to reveal details stating I am not responding now all problems will be resolvedReports indicate the Minister informed the CPI that the governments decision was aimed at securing central funding Later LDF convener TP Ramakrishnan said the LDF would review both the signed agreement and the issues raised by the CPIHe added that the National Education Policy NEP implications of PMSHRI would also be examined and all parties views considered before a final decisionThe CPI has raised objections over consultation lapses and coalition protocol while the CPIM has defended the state governments decisionParty leaders assigned Sivankutty to engage in reconciliation talks ahead of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayans return from abroad tomorrowRamakrishnan expressed confidence that the discussions would help resolve the controversyThe ongoing debate highlights internal strains within the Left Front as the government balances Central directives with alliance sensitivities ahead of crucial educational reformsMeanwhile it has been reliably learned that even some of the CPIM Ministers were unaware of the Vijayan government going forward with the PMSHRI programme and a top State Education official was going to sign it and only after the news surfaced on Thursday that it was inked did many in the Vijayan cabinet know about it IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-cpi-wants-pm-shri-to-be-cancelled-govt-in-damage-control-mode-644906.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 19:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/over-15-crore-train-passengers-travelled-in-festive-season-so-far-ashwini-vaishnaw-644909.html New Delhi Oct 25 Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said nearly 15 crore train passengers have travelled so far in this festive season adding that over 25 crore passengers are likely to travel by the end of the festival season Vaishnaw informed that big holding areas have been set up at 30 railway stations for smoother crowd managementSpeaking to reporters here the minister further said that during former Railways Minister Lalu Prasads tenure 178 special trains were run during the Diwali and Chhath festival which have now increased to over 13000 a massive jumpThe safety has also increased and the number of accidents has reduced from over 170 in 2014 to just 31 in 202425 and we aim to reduce it further and make it saferAccording to Vaishnaw rail track construction has risen from 400600 kilometres per year to over 4000 per yearThe Indian Railways is also gearing up for the safe and comfortable return journey of passengers after the Chhath Puja festivities For October 28 6181 special trains have been notified to facilitate passengers returning to their workplaces after the festival seasonAround 30 stations in Bihar are gearing up for the festive rush with holding areas additional ticket counters CCTV surveillance and other passengerfriendly arrangements Moreover Railways has set up 24x7 medical booths at Patna Muzaffarpur Darbhanga Gaya and Saharsa with fire brigade and ambulance services on standby for prompt passenger health assistance and safety managementThe minister further said that more than 12 lakh Central Government employees have been onboarded on Zohos swadeshi digital suiteChipsets for various applications including CCTV are being developed in India Within two years India is set to achieve complete domestic production of mobile phone components The government will invest more than Rs 200 crore to develop energyefficient microprocessors for highperformance computing including servers said the minister IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/over-15-crore-train-passengers-travelled-in-festive-season-so-far-ashwini-vaishnaw-644909.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 19:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ktakas-khata-conversion-scheme-is-bogus-kumaraswamy-644932.html Bengaluru Oct 25 Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy said on Saturday that the conversion of B Khata to A Khata is a complete bogus asserting that it is nothing but an extortion scheme designed to loot money by the Congressled government No one should pay money for Khata conversion In two years when the JDSBJP alliance government comes to power we will get it done for you people at minimal cost Do not fall for the bogus temptations of this government This is my open call to the people of Bengaluru he said He also attacked the Congress government regarding the programme as the sixth guarantee for converting B Khata to A KhataHe alleged that the Congress government is committing daylight robbery adding that the government is using people to extortion money Under no circumstances should you pay even a single rupee For no reason should you go ahead with Khata conversion in the next two years Do not be misled by their words It is our responsibility to protect you and safeguard your interests he said He claimed that after two years when their alliance government comes they will ensure Khata conversion most simply and easily without any financial burden on the people People are struggling to repay loans taken for property Do not once again borrow lakhs of rupees just to get A Khata done Do not fall into another debt trap Already people are crushed under price rise and tax burdens At such a time this government has brought in the socalled A Khata scheme claiming it as a Diwali gift and their sixth guarantee he said Kumaraswamy also claimed that this government has been flooding the public with advertisements about this bogus programme for the last 15 days This is nothing but fooling the people of the state Who said Khata conversion should not be done The question is why charge lakhs in the name of it he saidHe said that the people of Bengaluru have been facing this problem since 1995 adding that it also exists in rural areas In 1997 an order was passed Until 2003 the then Deve Gowda government divided 60 municipal wards into 90 and created new town municipalities and city councils as the Bengaluru outskirts had not developed much then In 1997 the rate was fixed at Rs 110 per sq metre Through Form 19 Khata was issued For a 30x40 site the rate came to Rs 12263 and for land conversion Rs 1500 was collected explained the MinisterIn 2007 when I was CM a central government programme was launched for urban development over five years I emphasised the development of Bengaluru and Mysuru BBMP was created with 198 wards by merging 110 villages A comprehensive development plan of Rs 25000 crore was drawn up for Bengaluru and MysuruAt that time we fixed clear rates for Khata conversion Rs 200 per sq metre for up to 60 sq m Rs 400 for 60120 sq m and Rs 600 for above 120 sq m Then some people went to court The court directed that Khata be given within 15 days From then itself the government and BBMP have collected money for Khata Why should they charge again now he saidThe Union Minister said that Bengaluru is a rapidly growing city Its development cannot be ignored adding that the unplanned and unsafe constructions are causing trouble for citizens In this order the government claims Khata conversion is needed because of such issues Are B Khata houses collapsing in the rain Is that why they are making A Khata Is this believable he saidHow long will you keep looting people in broad daylight Your bad time has begun Whenever we speak for the people you accuse us of jealousy There is nothing like B Khata or A Khata As if that wasnt enough now they are bringing in OC Occupancy Certificate and CC Completion Certificate They say 70 per cent of people will benefit from OC exemptions Kumaraswamy alleged IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ktakas-khata-conversion-scheme-is-bogus-kumaraswamy-644932.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-cracks-robbery-case-in-seelampur-two-held-stolen-items-recovered-644933.html New Delhi Oct 25 In a swift breakthrough the Delhi Police team of Police Station Seelampur has successfully solved a robbery case reported earlier this month The police have arrested the robber along with the receiver of the stolen items and recovered both the robbed mobile phone and the scooter used in the commission of the crimeAccording to a statement from the police On the night intervening 13141025 a robbery incident was reported at PS Seelampur The complainant Ashraf 50 years So Mehar Ro JMC Welcome stated that after midnight while he was charging his mini tempo at a Charging Hub near Welcome Metro Station three persons on a scooty robbed him of his mobile phoneFollowing the complaint a case under Sections 309635 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS was registered at Police Station Seelampur and a detailed investigation was initiatedA dedicated team led by Inspector Pankaj Kumar SHOPS Seelampur developed vital leads in the case and managed to trace one of the suspects The accused was identified as Dinesh 23 years So Kallu Ro Kishan Colony Prahladpur Bangar Delhi During the search police recovered the robbed mobile phone from his possessionDuring interrogation Dinesh revealed that he had purchased the stolen phone from an acquaintance Acting on his disclosure police conducted a raid and apprehended Paras 29 years So Kanhaiya Lal Ro Jheel Khuranja Geeta Colony Delhi The team also recovered the scooty No DL5SDA1878 used in the robberyPolice said During sustained interrogation both accused admitted to their involvement in the robbery Verification revealed that the accused Paras has a previous criminal record and was earlier involved in three cases including theft and Arms Act violationsBoth accused have been taken into custody and further investigation is underway to identify and arrest the third accomplice who remains at largeThe prompt action of Seelampur Police under the supervision of senior officers demonstrates the departments continued efforts to ensure public safety and bring habitual offenders to justice Authorities stated that more arrests are likely as the probe progresses IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-cracks-robbery-case-in-seelampur-two-held-stolen-items-recovered-644933.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/one-killed-three-injured-in-bengaluru-blast-union-minister-seeks-probe-644934.html Bengaluru Oct 25 One person was killed and three others from the same family were injured in an explosion in Bengaluru on Saturday The impact of the blast was so severe that the house sustained significant damage The explosion has been reported from Triveninagar in the KR Puram localityUnion Minister Shobha Karandlaje visited and inspected the spot She has also demanded a comprehensive probe into the incidentThe deceased has been identified as 80yearold Akkayyamma Besides 25yearold Kiran 52yearold Shekar and 22yearold Chandana are the injured persons Chandana has suffered more than 50 per cent burn injuriesEast Division Joint Commissioner of Police Ramesh Banoth also visited the spot and gathered information from the officialsHe said The incident occurred at around 730 am An elderly woman who was sleeping died after the roof slab collapsed on her Three others have sustained injuriesA woman living in the house behind was also injured Shekhars daughter too was hurt We obtained information from them They said the explosion occurred when the gas stove was turned on The young woman gave this statement However an investigation is being carried out to determine the exact cause he statedWhitefield Division DCP Parashuram stated Among the injured a woman named Chandana has sustained serious injuries The house where the incident occurred has been completely damaged Three shed houses behind the main house have also suffered damage A woman residing in one of those sheds has also been injuredAt first glance it appears to be a cylinder blast A clear picture will emerge after expert examinationLocal resident Rajalakshmi stated Between 7 and 710 am we heard a very loud sound Since it was Diwali we thought someone might be bursting crackers When we came out we saw that the entire house was damagedThe injured were immediately taken to the hospital with the help of neighbours Window panes of nearby houses were shattered Four people were living in the same house A woman living in the house behind was also injured The sound was heard up to four to five kilometres awayShekhars relative Sindhu stated My brotherinlaw his children and their mother were in the house In the morning we received a call informing us about the incident All of them have suffered injuriesUnion Minister Shobha Karandlaje has demanded a thorough investigation into the largescale explosion that occurred in Triveninagar of the KR Puram Assembly constituency in Bengaluru citySpeaking to the media after inspecting the explosion site she said that an explosion occurred this morning in Triveninagar resulting in the death of a woman and causing severe damage to the entire house Expressing concern she said that a detailed forensic report must be obtained to bring out the truth Incidents like this create fear among the public she addedThere must be a reason behind the collapse of such a large and sturdy house An investigation should determine whether the explosion was caused by a gas leak or by some other explosive material the Union Minister emphasised She urged the government to immediately provide compensation to the deceaseds family and ensure free medical treatment for the injuredShe noted that nearby houses were also affected by the blast and that some neighbours have been hospitalized Glass panes have shattered up to a considerable height she remarked with concern She appreciated the efforts of police officers fire personnel and local residents who rushed to helpThe Minister also appealed to the government to compensate those whose houses were damaged due to the incident She mentioned that the cylinder involved reportedly belonged to Bharat Petroleum and urged the company to conduct its own investigation as wellFormer Minister and BJP MLA Byrathi Basavaraj representing the KR Puram Assembly constituency said he was shocked after visiting the site of the massive explosion that occurred in Triveninagar in BengaluruAccording to preliminary investigations the building is owned by a person named Ramesh Shekhar was residing in the house Shekhars family had moved into the house on rent about nine months ago He was living there with his two children Chandana and Kiran Kumar and the elderly woman Akkayyamma IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/one-killed-three-injured-in-bengaluru-blast-union-minister-seeks-probe-644934.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-37-251-domestic-electricity-connections-issued-in-20-days-644935.html Jaipur Oct 25 In line with the vision of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma Rajasthans Discoms delivering on the promise of quality accessible and consumercentric electricity services have made significant strides in improving service delivery and introducing innovations that ensure accountability and transparency Ahead of Diwali 2025 the Discoms conducted a special campaign that successfully issued 37251 domestic electricity connections across the stateFurthering consumer engagement Jaipur Discom has launched a Star Rating feedback system to strengthen service quality through direct consumer input The campaign focused on clearing pending cases and providing new connections efficiently The Discoms expedited all necessary processes including document verification site inspection and demand note issuance while ensuring the timely availability of line materials at storage branches As a result Jaipur Discom issued 17373 connections Ajmer Discom issued 15433 connections and Jodhpur Discom issued 4445 connections This achievement highlights the governments proactive approach to ensuring timely access to electricity for every householdTo enhance accountability and monitor service quality Jaipur Discom has developed an independent feedback system for consumers receiving new connections Once a domestic connection is activated the consumer receives an SMS link to download the Bijli Mitra mobile app Upon entering the K number users can rate their experience from 1 to 5 stars via a feedback popup These ratings will be reviewed monthly at the circle and subdivision levels with Superintending Engineer and Assistant Engineer offices ranked based on performanceThe initiative enables continuous improvement in service delivery and better monitoring of fieldlevel officers and staff said officials In addition to appbased feedback Jaipur Discom has also been collecting consumer opinions through its helpline 181 Between April 1 and August 15 2025 calls were made to 75746 consumers who recently received connections gathering valuable insights to refine service procedures and enhance consumer satisfaction IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-37-251-domestic-electricity-connections-issued-in-20-days-644935.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-to-begin-paddy-procurement-from-nov-1-payments-directly-to-farmers-accounts-644936.html Kolkata Oct 25 The West Bengal Food Department will start buying paddy from farmers at the beginning of the kharif season on November 1 said a senior government official on Saturday It has been informed that if the paddy is sold in the government buying centre the farmers will get the price of paddy within a maximum of three working days The money will directly enter the bank account of the farmers This initiative has been taken to ensure that there is no delay in getting money for the farmers after the sale of paddy according to the officialThe government will buy paddy for the 202526 season across the state from November 1To collect this paddy the Food Department is launching 620 permanent buying centres In addition about 179 mobile permanent purchase centres which will mainly travel to remote areas will buy paddy from farmersThese mobile centres will play a major role especially where it is difficult for the farmers to reach the nearby permanent buying centresAt the same time temporary paddy procurement camps will be conducted at various places during the kharif season These camps will be managed by various government agenciesAccording to the guidelines issued by the Food Department the agencies should inform the Food Department the day after the purchase of paddy in the temporary camp The Food Department will verify that information and send the money to the farmers bank account quicklyFarmers will get Rs 2369 per quintal if they sell paddy this season Besides the state government has decided to give an additional bonus of Rs 20 in case they sell paddy in government purchasing centres Therefore a total of Rs 2389 per quintal will go to the farmerHowever online registration has been made mandatory for the sale of paddy by the Food Department Farmers have to go to the designated purchase centre and sell paddy on the appointed dayIf for some reason it is not possible to reach on the appointed day then rebooking should be done said the officialIt should be noted that from November to February these four months are considered as the busiest and most important time for buying paddy IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-to-begin-paddy-procurement-from-nov-1-payments-directly-to-farmers-accounts-644936.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-bjp-says-state-now-aligns-with-national-education-policy-644937.html Kozhikode Oct 25 Former state unit BJP president K Surendran on Saturday said that Kerala has finally adopted the correct stance on the National Education Policy NEP a position the BJP has long advocated Surendran noted that both the state government and a few Congressruled states have acknowledged that the BJPs position was right even as implementation lagged over the past four yearsHe criticised the delay in rolling out NEP initiatives pointing out that hundreds of thousands of students missed the benefits of the policys modern educational programsSurendran urged the government to implement the NEP this academic year itself without further delays stressing that children should not be inconveniencedHe added that the Left Front by creating unnecessary controversies had misled the public and is largely responsible for the current debates surrounding education reformsWelcoming the Education Ministers admission that there was no flaw in the NEP and that he had revised his earlier stance Surendran called for an apology to the public for the prolonged inactionHe described the CPIMs claim that the PMSHRI program is merely a tool to earn cash and that policies would not be implemented as laughable emphasizing that directives from the Central Government would be implemented in Kerala as in other statesSurendran further highlighted that curriculum reform falls under concurrent subjects allowing both the Centre and the state to interveneHe said that Prime Minister Narendra Modiled government would correct the historical narratives neglected by Congress encouraging students to learn about figures such as Veer Savarkar Dr Hedgewar and Pandit Deendayal UpadhyayaHe also took pot shots at the CPI noting that the CPI may bark but it wont bite Surendran pointed out that CPI claims including opposition to Maoist hunts and ration reforms have not materialized and even their ministers did not resign over controversial issues like the One India One Ration Card schemeAccording to Surendran the ongoing debates show that both the Left and Congress in Kerala are trying to mislead the public instead of focusing on practical implementation of education reforms IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-bjp-says-state-now-aligns-with-national-education-policy-644937.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kumaraswamy-criticises-ktaka-govt-says-rss-row-is-to-hide-failures-644938.html Bengaluru Oct 25 Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday sharply criticised the Congressled Karnataka government stating that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS issue is being highlighted by the state government to cover its own failures Speaking to the media in Bengaluru he said that the RSS cannot be banned and questioned why the government constantly talks about the organisation What have they achieved Why waste time discussing RSS he askedReferring to past controversies Kumaraswamy noted that the government delayed action on the Dharmasthala SIT case Now Mahesh Shetty activist against temple authorities has received relief in one case During this government nothing reaches a logical conclusion They waste time and mislead people he saidHe emphasized that instead of focusing on the RSS the government should prioritize development and resolving the states pressing issues Mere criticism is of no use he addedResponding to a question on Yathindra Siddaramaiah projecting Satish Jarkiholi as the next Chief Minister Kumaraswamy said Anyone can become CM in this country under the Constitution drafted by Ambedkar Its the partys decision to choose the CM No one is inevitable What I think doesnt matterHe further criticized the state government for neglecting farmers issues I dont know if reports were submitted to the central government Banning RSS is not the priority First solve peoples problems he saidWhen asked about Dy CM DK Shivakumars challenge to him to bring industries to the state and he would ensure land acquisitions Kumaraswamy reminded that during his tenure as CM he initiated numerous reforms He highlighted the Compete with China plan industrial clusters employment schemes and proposed Rs 25000 crore subsidies for the industrial sector initiatives that were scrapped by the current government They lacked the capability to continue these projects he saidOn the challenge for an open discussion from Shivakumar Kumaraswamy retorted that Shivakumar lacks the competence Does he have the eligibility to hold an open debate I never engaged in corruption like him Before talking about me understand my work as CM my departments and my initiatives I have taken steps such as introducing 4500 electric buses in Bengaluru and other development projects across the state he saidKumaraswamy also questioned the claims of past ministers regarding industrial development in Bengaluru implying that many projects were mismanaged or swallowed by private interestsReacting to Siddaramaiahs remark that he would not ask PM Narendra Modi for funds Kumaraswamy said Why should I ask for funds People gave 136 seats for the Congress When floods came I built 1000 houses in Kodagu without waiting for central aid They lack such capability and initiative he saidAmong those present at the press meet were Legislative Party Leader Suresh Babu former Minister Venkatarao Nadagouda Legislative Council members TA Sharavan SL Bhojegowda Javarayigowda Vivekananda JDS Bengaluru City unit President and former MLA HM Ramesh Gowda and Choudareddy Thoopalli IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kumaraswamy-criticises-ktaka-govt-says-rss-row-is-to-hide-failures-644938.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/aaps-greatest-failure-bjp-on-former-woman-athlete-selling-her-son-for-drugs--644939.html Chandigarh Oct 25 Expressing concern over an alleged incident in which a former woman athlete who fell into the grip of addiction sold her own son for just Rs 180 lakh Punjab BJPs working President Ashwani Sharma slammed the Aam Aadmi Party government over the incident saying this reflected the governments greatest failure BJP leader Sharma said the states antidrug campaign has remained confined only to papers and photo opportunitiesHe said the woman athlete had become addicted to drugs and due to financial distress she took this horrifying stepAbout two and a half months later when she realised her mistake her maternal instincts resurfaced and she applied to the Bareta Police Station to get her son back leading to the exposure of the caseThe BJP legislator said the drug trade has now spread to every village and town yet the governments policies are trapped in advertisements and false claimsJoining the issue Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of wilfully ignoring the drug menace that is ravaging Punjab and leaving an indelible stain on its historyCongress lawmaker Bajwa highlighted that in a gutwrenching incident that exposes the horrifying depths of Punjabs drug crisis a drugaddict couple from Mansa district sold their fivemonthold son to a family in Budhlada for Rs 18 lakh just to fund their addictionA fivemonthold baby was sold like an object An innocent life was reduced to a transaction because drugs have eaten away the soul of our society said Bajwa in a statementHe said the mother was once a statelevel wrestler She and her husband both enslaved by drugs sold their baby to keep their next high goingThis is not fiction This is the reality of Punjab in 2025 he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/aaps-greatest-failure-bjp-on-former-woman-athlete-selling-her-son-for-drugs--644939.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-five-employees-affected-as-gas-leaks-at-rawatbhata-heavy-water-plant-644941.html Jaipur Oct 25 A hydrogen sulfide HS gas leak at the Rawatbhata Heavy Water Plant on Saturday left five employees affected including one departmental employee and four contract workers Of them two have been referred to Kota for advanced medical treatment while three are receiving care at the Nuclear Power Plant HospitalAccording to General Manager P Satish the incident occurred while employees were working in the field All affected workers were immediately shifted to the hospitalContract worker Dharmendra Lohar son of Mohan Lohar from Bhainsrodgarh is reported to be in critical condition and has been referred to Kota HospitalUpon learning of the incident DSP Kamal Prasad Meena Tehsildar Vivek Garasiya Police Station Officer Raisal Singh and other officials reached the siteAuthorities confirmed that the situation is now under control though the exact cause of the gas leak is still under investigationSDM Kriti Vyas stated I spoke with the General Manager who informed me that two people were injured and are undergoing treatmentMeanwhile a soldier posted at Tower No 11 reportedly suffered eye irritation and swelling due to exposureHydrogen sulfide is a highly toxic and flammable gas Even at low concentrations it can cause eye irritation respiratory distress nausea and vomiting Prolonged or highlevel exposure can lead to unconsciousness or deathFollowing the incident the local residents and plant employees have demanded a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsibleAs of now no official statement has been issued by the plant administration or district authoritiesFurther investigations were in progress till the time of filing of this report IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-five-employees-affected-as-gas-leaks-at-rawatbhata-heavy-water-plant-644941.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 20:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-lover-arrested-for-forcing-girl-to-convert-to-islam-for-marriage-644942.html Bengaluru Oct 25 Karnataka Police on Saturday arrested a man for allegedly forcing a girl to convert to Islam in order to marry her The accused Mohammad Ishaq has been arrested in Amrutalli police station limits in BengaluruThe case came to light after the victim filed a complaint against her lover and his family alleging that they were pressuring her to convert to Islam for marriage The complaint was registered at HSR Layout police station in Bengaluru on ThursdayAccording to police the victim and Mohammad Ishaq were introduced via Instagram on October 17 2024 After some interaction they began a relationship On October 30 2024 they met at a mall in the Thanisandra locality of Bengaluru where the accused allegedly promised to speak to her parents and marry herLater that day he booked a room in Dasarahalli and reportedly sexually exploited her The victim claimed that he repeatedly abused her physically under the pretext of marriage Over time she became suspicious of his behaviour and discovered that he had multiple affairs with other girls When she insisted on marriage he allegedly kept postponing it with excusesIt was further revealed that the accused had gotten engaged to a Muslim girl on September 14 2025 When confronted about this he allegedly threatened the victim warning that she would be killed if she contacted him again and told her to move on The victim also stated that she was verbally abused in vulgar languagePolice said the victim attempted suicide after which Mohammad Ishaqs family contacted her family suggesting that the matter could be resolved amicably However Ishaqs elder brother and brotherinlaw reportedly told the girl that she must convert to Islam if she wanted to marry him They allegedly instructed her to learn to perform namaz prayers within 40 days and stated that marriage discussions would only proceed after her conversionThe case has taken a controversial turn with Hindu organizations approaching the victims family claiming it as a case of love jihad and demanding justice The police are treating the matter seriously and continue to investigateIt may be recalled that the BJP has alleged that cases of love jihad are on the rise in Karnataka due to the appeasement policies of the Congressled government Former minister and BJP MLC CT Ravi had urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to form a Special Investigation Team SIT to comprehensively investigate all cases of love jihad land jihad and vote jihadBJP State President and MLA BY Vijayendra also stated that love jihad cases are increasing in the state which he claimed is following a Kerala model due to the minority appeasement politics of Siddaramaiah Those who commit crimes against women and other antisocial activities believe that the state government will support them because it hesitates to arrest accused individuals even in cases such as raising Pakistan Zindabad slogans at Vidhana Soudha This policy is destabilizing law and order and creating fear among Hindu families and women Vijayendra said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-lover-arrested-for-forcing-girl-to-convert-to-islam-for-marriage-644942.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/trinamool-disciplinary-committee-meeting-next-week-to-crack-whip-on-rebel-mla-humayun-kabir-644943.html Kolkata Oct 25 The Trinamool Congress has convened a meeting of its disciplinary committee next week to crack the whip on rebel party leaders who are making public statements against the party leadership Sources in the Trinamool Congress said on Saturday that the discussion will be held on party leader Humayun Kabir and his controversial remarks against the party Before the meeting members of the disciplinary committee will discuss with Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee It is learnt that senior party leader Sovandev Chattopadhyay is already in touch with the members on behalf of the committee The meeting will be held next week but the date is yet to be finalisedFor the past few days the Trinamool Congress MLA from Bharatpur in Murshidabad district has been practically naming and shaming the presidents of the party organisations starting with the Murshidabad district president Apurba Sarkar He has warned that those who hold various political positions in the entire district will be brought to the fore and their photographs will be hung on the wall After that he practically threw a challenge to the party and said Let me be expelled from the party I want to leave Then I will explain the kind of politics prevailing in the districtHe also alleged that Sarkar played a role in the arrest of another Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha by Enforcement Directorate ED in cash for school jobs scamI have information and I will share it at the right time I will tell you at the right time how this district president got Jiban Krishna Saha arrested by influencing Sahas father Bishwanath SahaIt may be recalled thay has also raised his voice against Baharampur Trinamool Congress MP Yusuf PathanPreviously Kabir had been censured by the Trinamool Congress leadership a number of times and even slapped with showcause notices for making public statements that caused embarrassment to the party However despite being reprimanded Kabir repeated his actions and statements IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/trinamool-disciplinary-committee-meeting-next-week-to-crack-whip-on-rebel-mla-humayun-kabir-644943.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-leadership-row-bjp-questions-shivakumars-courage-to-act-against-cm-siddaramaiahs-son--644944.html Bengaluru Oct 25 The Karnataka BJP has criticised Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president DK Shivakumar questioning inaction against Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs son MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah for projecting Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi as successor to his father The BJP wondered doesnt he even have the courage to issue a notice to CM Siddaramaiahs sonLeader of the Opposition R Ashoka stated on Saturday Shivakumar has the courage to threaten film actors saying he will tighten their nuts and bolts He has the courage to threaten MLAs saying they must behave submissively He even has the courage to shout at party workers at his will But as Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee KPCC President dont you even have the courage to issue a notice to Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs son Yathindra Mr DK ShivakumarAshoka further attacked When you look up to the Delhi High Command for everything how will you lead the state if you somehow become Chief Minister tomorrow Mr DK ShivakumarJust as the late Dr Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister but Sonia Gandhi held the real power in her hands even if you suddenly become the Chief Minister there is no doubt that Siddaramaiah will remain the super CMWhat benefit will Kannadigas get if a weak leader like you becomes the Chief Minister Ashoka questionedIn a major development Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs son MLC Yathindra Siddaramaiah had stated that his father is in the fag end of his political career He further said that at this crucial juncture Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will take the lead in guiding those who follow scientific and progressive thoughtThe statements have stirred a huge controversy amid rumours of a leadership change and discussions of a powersharing agreement in KarnatakaYathindra said Today my father is at the end of his political career He is in the final stage of his political life At this hour for those who embrace scientific and progressive ideas Minister for PWD Satish Jarkiholi will take responsibility and provide leadershipThough Dy CM Shivakumar had said that no one is bigger than the party and that party workers should remain devoted to the party till date no action has been initiated However the party has issued notices to MLAs for raising leadership issues in public earlierDeclining to comment on the matter Shivakumar later maintained that he would convey the message to the appropriate quarters Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Friday Shivakumar said when asked whether he would issue a notice to Yathindra I wont talk about the matter now I will convey the message where it should reachI stand by discipline Discipline is the priority of my party Shivakumar underlined The statements are likely to trigger a major controversy within the ruling Congress as the Siddaramaiah camp is also expected to react to Shivakumars remarksMeanwhile sources confirmed that a report on Yathindras statement along with a video clip of his announcement has already been sent to the party high command by the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee KPCC The Shivakumar camp is confident that the national leadership will take note of the message conveyed through Yathindras remarks IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ktaka-leadership-row-bjp-questions-shivakumars-courage-to-act-against-cm-siddaramaiahs-son--644944.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/two-ieds-seized-from-man-in-punjab-644945.html Chandigarh Oct 25 Punjab Polices Special Operation Cell of Amritsar has apprehended an operative of a terror network and recovered two improvised explosive devices IEDs weighing around 25 kg each packed with highgrade RDX and equipped with timers for detonation said Director General of Police DGP Gaurav Yadav here on Saturday The accused has been identified as Manpreet Singh alias Tiddi a resident of Kotla Tarkhana village in Amritsar He has a criminal history being previously involved in two criminal cases registered in police stations of Batala and Kalanaur After spending around one and a half years in Gurdaspur and Amritsar jails he was released in February 2025 and he subsequently resumed his criminal activitiesDGP Yadav said preliminary investigation has revealed that the accused was working on the directions of his handlers based in Armenia Britain and Germany who are further receiving instructions from a Pakistanbased mastermind of a banned terrorist organisationSharing operational details Assistant Inspector General Amritsar Sukhminder Singh Mann said acting swiftly on a specific intelligence input the police arrested suspect Manpreet Singh and recovered a pistol of 30 bore along with ammunition from his possession Following his disclosure two IEDs packed in metal containers with highgrade RDX and equipped with timers for detonation are also recovered from the area of Kotla Tarkhana village he saidThe AIG said probe further indicated that around two weeks back the Pakistanbased handler facilitated a dronedropping of the seized consignment in the Ajnala sector which was retrieved by the arrested person and further concealed by him near a canal close to his Kotla Tarkhana villageHis handlers had instructed him to remain on standby and await further orders to hand over the IEDs to another contact for intended use he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/two-ieds-seized-from-man-in-punjab-644945.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/hyderabad-cell-phone-thief-injured-in-firing-by-dcp-644949.html Hyderabad Oct 25 A Deputy Commissioner of Police in Hyderabad opened fire injuring a mobile phone thief who was fleeing after trying to attack police with a knife The incident occurred in broad daylight in the Chaderghat area around 5 pm on SaturdayThe incident near Victory Playground on the banks of the Musi River sent panic through the busy areaSai Chaitanya Deputy Commissioner of Police South East who was returning to his office after attending a meeting at the Police Commissioners Office spotted a rowdy sheeter and a property offender committing a mobile phone theft The DCP along with his gunman tried to catch the offendersThe accused tried to attack the gunman with a knife Police Commissioner C V Sajjanar told media persons after a visit to the spot that on seeing the constable getting injured in the attack the DCP opened two rounds of fire injuring one of the offendersThe accused who sustained injuries on the hand and near the stomach was taken to a private hospital while the other accused managed to escapeDCP and the gunman also sustained minor injuries in the scuffle and they were also shifted to a private hospitalThe injured offender was identified as Omer Ansari a rowdy sheeter of Kalapatthar police station in the city He is said to be involved in 20 casesPolice teams were working to catch the absconding accusedThe Police Commissioner defended the DCPs action in opening fire in a crowded area saying a constable was under attackThe incident in the busy area triggered a sensation One of the eyewitnesses said that when the police were chasing the accused they entered the playground and mingledSultan Bazar Police registered a case and took up an investigation The team collected clues from the sceneDCP South Zone Sneha Mehra DCP Central Zone K Shipavalli and other officials also visited the Victory playground IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/hyderabad-cell-phone-thief-injured-in-firing-by-dcp-644949.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:44:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/chhattisgarh-badesetti-becomes-first-maoist-free-village-setting-model-for-peace-development-644952.html New Delhi Oct 25 Once a symbol of fear and insurgency Badesetti village in the Bastar region has scripted a new chapter in Chhattisgarhs history by becoming the states first Maoistfree Gram Panchayat Once caught in the shadow of Maoist violence this remote village is now a model of peace development and selfreliance Under the Maoist Rehabilitation Policy the Panchayat and Rural Development Department has sanctioned Rs 110 crore for the holistic development of the village The funds are being utilised to improve infrastructure strengthen local governance and ensure the return of essential public services that were once disrupted by Maoist activitiesToday Badesetti stands as a symbol of transformation The same residents who once feared venturing out after sunset now actively participate in village development meetings and digital transactions With the reopening of bank accounts that were dormant during years of insurgency the people of Badesetti are now embracing Digital India using UPI payments for daily transactions a small but powerful sign of confidence and progressThe Anganwadi centre which had been shut down for nearly three years due to Maoist threats has now reopened Workers have returned and children once again receive early education and nutritional support Government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Jal Jeevan Mission and Solar Lighting Projects have brought clean drinking water and reliable power to the community Construction of a Panchayat Bhawan and a primary health centre is underway while the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana has connected the village to nearby towns with a newly built concrete road making transport and trade easier than everA villager said Yes the construction work in our Panchayat has been completed and everything is functioning properly now Earlier the situation was very different but now a real improvement is visible Bus services have started electricity has reached every home and a concrete road connects us to nearby areas Development is clearly taking shape hereAnother villager shared how peace has returned to the region saying Earlier my entire area was under Maoist influence but now the presence has completely ended There are no signs of any Maoist activity anymore the area is fully free and peacefulBadesettis transformation has become a source of inspiration for nearby villages still struggling under the remnants of extremism Local authorities believe that the villages success story can serve as a model of peace through development for the rest of BastarOfficials say continued investment in education health and employment generation will ensure that this peace is lasting From fear to freedom and from darkness to development Badesetti has truly become the face of a new selfreliant Bastar IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/chhattisgarh-badesetti-becomes-first-maoist-free-village-setting-model-for-peace-development-644952.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/three-killed-in-road-accident-in-bengals-hooghly-district-644954.html Kolkata Oct 25 Three persons were killed in a road accident in West Bengals Hooghly district early on Saturday According to the police three potters died in the road accident which occurred in Kanajuli area of Gurap police station on National Highway19The potters were returning to Asansol in a car on Saturday morning The car suddenly lost control in the Kanajuli area and rammed into the back of a moving car The intensity of the accident was so high that the front part of the car was completely damaged Three people in the car were seriously injuredLocal residents first started the rescue work Later Gurap police station was also informed The police came and rescued the injured and quickly sent them to Burdwan Medical College and HospitalHowever doctors at the hospital declared all three dead on arrival The deceased have been identified as Divas Mandal 30 Kaushik Mandal 28 and Nimai Das 38 died All are known to be potters by profession Among them Divas house is in Hingalganj of North 24 Parganas district Kaushiks house is in Haroa police station area of the same district Nimais house is in Rabindra Sarobar police station area of south KolkataIn the preliminary investigation the police are of the view that this incident may have happened after the driver fell asleepA terrible accident took place at around 4 to 5 am The car was travelling in a high speed It lost control and rammed the back of a moving car Three people died in the accident Further investigation is on said a senior officer of Hooghly district policeThe bodies have been sent for postmortem According to the police officer family members of the deceased potters have been informed Following the news of the accident a pall of gloom has descended on the neighbourhood of the potters IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/three-killed-in-road-accident-in-bengals-hooghly-district-644954.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/eci-asks-bihar-parties-to-disclose-if-campaign-content-is-ai-generated-644804.html New Delhi Oct 24 To maintain a levelplaying field in the Bihar Assembly election campaign the ECI on Friday directed candidates and parties to clearly mention on videos and images if these are synthetically generated or AIaltered While advising them to use such content responsibly the poll panel emphasised the need for strict compliance by all political parties with the due diligence obligations and contentrelated responsibilities prescribed under the IT Rules 2021 to ensure a fair and transparent electoral processTo guard against deep fakes the ECI advised parties and candidates that no content shall be published or forwarded which is unlawful and misrepresents the identity appearance or voice of any person without his consent in a manner reasonably likely to mislead or deceive the electorateAny synthetically generated or AIaltered image audio or video used or disseminated for campaigning purposes shall bear a clear prominent and legible label such as AIGenerated Digitally Enhanced or Synthetic Content covering at least 10 per cent of the visible display area or initial 10 per cent duration for audio content The label in the case of video content shall be carried as part of the top hand of the screen said an advisory issued by the Election Commission of India ECISuch content shall prominently disclose the name of entity responsible for its generation in the metadata or accompanying caption said the ECIThe poll panel also cautioned candidates and parties that any content that violates this advisory shall have to be taken downAny instance of synthetically generated or AIaltered image audio or video misinformation or manipulated content detected on official party handles shall be taken down within 3 hours of being noticed or reported it saidEarlier the ECI announced a paid holiday for employed electors on the two polling days for the Bihar Assembly elections and warned employers of a penalty if they deduct wages of their staff for absence on November 6 and 11The result of the election to pick a new 243seat Assembly will be declared on November 14 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/eci-asks-bihar-parties-to-disclose-if-campaign-content-is-ai-generated-644804.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 00:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ravi-kishan-urges-parents-to-remind-youth-of-bihars-past-defends-nitish-kumars-leadership-644807.html Patna Oct 24 Bhojpuri film superstar and BJP MP Ravi Kishan made an emotional appeal to the people urging parents to educate their children about the states past and how far it has come under the NDA government I urge all parents to tell their children what Bihar was like 20 years ago how people lived in fear and how crime ruled the streets Ravi Kishan said while addressing a public meeting in Bhojpurs Sandesh block on FridayPrime Minister Narendra Modi has always said that we must not forget history Bihars reputation was terrible before But after our government came to power the pace of development accelerated We are now running on the path of progress and we must never go back Kishan saidRecounting his own experiences the actorturnedpolitician said When I came to Bihar in 2001 for the shooting of Saiyaan Hamaar the roads were in horrible condition The atmosphere was terrifying shootings ransom and kidnappings were common But today Bihar has changed completely I appeal to everyone to tell their children about the Jungle Raj of 20 years ago so that history is never repeatedRavi Kishan expressed confidence that Bihar would achieve great heights of progress after November 14 and said that everything would be clear on the day of the resultsReacting strongly to Tejashwi Yadavs remark calling Chief Minister Nitish Kumar old and sick Ravi Kishan came out in passionate defence of the JDU leaderNitish Kumar sacrificed himself for Bihar His wife never even entered the Chief Ministers residence He devoted his entire life to beautifying Bihar and pulling it out of misery There isnt a single blemish on his political career he saidDrawing an emotional comparison Ravi Kishan asked When our parents grow old do we abandon them on the streets Nitish Kumar has given everything for Bihar He has energy honesty and dedicationThe BJP MP further said that the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections being held in two phases will once again witness the peoples support for the NDAThose who supported the RJD until yesterday are now standing against them People will rise above caste politics and vote for the NDA I am confident that Bihar will once again form a doubleengine government under the leadership of PM Modi and Nitish Kumar he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ravi-kishan-urges-parents-to-remind-youth-of-bihars-past-defends-nitish-kumars-leadership-644807.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 00:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/four-day-festival-of-faith-chhath-puja-begins-with-the-ritual-of-nahay-khaay-644821.html New Delhi Oct 25 The fourday festival of faith and devotion Chhath Puja began on Saturday with the sacred ritual of NahayKhaay Dedicated to the Sun god the festival celebrates the harmony between nature and humanity embodying purity gratitude and discipline On the first day devotees known as Vratis people who are fasting take a holy dip in rivers or ponds and consume a simple sattvic having qualities of purity harmony and balance meal of arwa chawal plain rice and lauki ki sabzi bottle gourd curry after offering prayers Other traditional foods like chana dal amla chutney and papad are prepared and later served as prasad ritual food offeringMass gatherings are expected across various bathing ghats across the country where thousands of devotees will participate in the rituals with unwavering faithWith roots tracing back to the Satyuga and Dwapara Yuga Chhath Puja is regarded as one of the oldest forms of Sun worship Devotees observe strict fasting abstaining from food and water for extended periods to express devotion and seek blessings of prosperity health and happiness Worshipping Surya during Chhath is believed to dispel negativity and usher in peace and positivityChhath Puja is one of the most significant Hindu festivals primarily observed in Bihar Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh It is also celebrated in parts of Nepal and among Indian communities across the worldDedicated to the worship of the Sun god and his sister Chhathi Maiya the festival emphasises purity gratitude and the wellbeing of ones familyThe fourday celebration involves elaborate rituals that symbolise purification faith and selfcontrolDay 1 Nahai Khai The festival begins with devotees taking a holy dip in a river or pond to cleanse themselves They bring vegetables and pulses and prepare the first offerings emphasising cleanliness and sanctityDay 2 Kharna On this day devotees observe a strict fast from sunrise to sunset They prepare offerings of jaggery rice and wheat breaking their fast in the evening after making offerings to the deity The prasad ritual food offerings is then shared with family friends and neighbours to promote unity and community spiritDay 3 Sandhya Arghya Devotees gather near water bodies in the evening to offer arghya prayers and offerings to the setting Sun They present fruits sugarcane and prasad to express gratitude to the Sun god for sustaining life on EarthDay 4 Usha Arghya The final day is dedicated to offering prayers to the rising Sun Devotees break their fast after making offerings symbolising renewal and spiritual rebirth The prasad is distributed among family and community members marking the end of the ritualsChhath Puja is celebrated with simplicity dedication and purity The offerings including fruits vegetables and sweets represent the gifts of nature and the ritual of fasting and prayers signifies the devotees willingness to cleanse their body mind and soul The primary essence of Chhath Puja is gratitude as it fosters respect for natural resources and the harmonious relationship between nature and humankind IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/four-day-festival-of-faith-chhath-puja-begins-with-the-ritual-of-nahay-khaay-644821.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 09:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-railways-tries-to-ease-holiday-rush-for-chhath-puja-with-special-trains-644827.html New Delhi Oct 25 The Indian Railways has made elaborate arrangements to manage the surge in passenger traffic for Chhath Puja as thousands of people tried to reach home even on Saturday to celebrate the festival with their families To accommodate the growing demand special trains additional coaches and several passengerfriendly measures were introduced on major routes and at key stationsIn response to the heavy rush a roundtrip Chhath Puja Special train has been scheduled between Rani Kamlapati and Hazrat NizamuddinAccording to officials train number 01661 Chhath Puja Special departed from Rani Kamlapati station on Saturday at 730 am and will arrive at Hazrat Nizamuddin station at 815 pmOn its return journey train number 01662 will leave Hazrat Nizamuddin at 830 pm on Saturday and halt at Mathura at 955 pm Agra Cantt at 1050 pm Gwalior at 255 am Veerangna Rani Laxmibai Jhansi at 535 am Bina at 810 am Vidisha at 915 am before reaching Rani Kamlapati Station at 1050 am on SundayThe train will comprise 22 LHB coaches including two Second AC three Third AC six Economy Third AC five Sleeper four General Class one SLRD and one generator carThe Railways Ministry stated that around 6181 special trains have been notified for October 28 to facilitate the return of passengers to their workplaces after the festive season is overIn total over 12000 special trains are being operated across the country with more than 900 special trips scheduled in the next three days to manage the festival rushIn Bihar nearly 30 stations are being equipped to handle the massive passenger inflow Measures include additional ticket counters CCTV surveillance weatherproof holding areas and enhanced crowd management systemsStations such as Patna Danapur Rajendra Nagar Terminal Saharsa Darbhanga Muzaffarpur Gaya Samastipur and Barauni in Bihar along with Gorakhpur Ballia and Varanasi also known as Banaras in Uttar Pradesh are among those where holding areas have been set up to ensure smooth operationsAdditional coaches are also being attached to existing services to accommodate increased demand Weatherproof holding areas are being created at major stations to manage large passenger inflows and provide convenient waiting facilities before train departures the ministry statedTo ensure passenger safety 247 medical booths have been established at key stations including Patna Muzaffarpur Darbhanga Gaya and Saharsa Fire brigade and ambulance services have also been stationed for emergency health assistance and safety managementAdding to the festive spirit Indian Railways has begun playing Chhath songs at several major stations to help passengers feel more connected to the occasionAt stations like Patna Danapur Hajipur Bhagalpur Jamalpur Sonpur New Delhi Ghaziabad and Anand Vihar Terminal the devotional songs are creating a joyful atmosphere and evoking the spirit of home and tradition for travellers heading back for the sacred festival IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-railways-tries-to-ease-holiday-rush-for-chhath-puja-with-special-trains-644827.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 10:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kannada-actress-involved-in-hit-amp-run-case-bengaluru-police-to-question-divya-suresh-644840.html Bengaluru Oct 25 The police investigation into the hitandrun case reported from the Byatarayanapura Traffic Police Station in Bengaluru has revealed the involvement of Kannada actress and Big Boss Kannada contestant Divya Suresh police said on Saturday Thirtyfouryearold Anita suffered a leg fracture while two other riders travelling on the bike escaped with minor injuries in the incidentAccording to the police Divya Suresh is currently busy shooting for a project and will soon be taken into custody for questioning regarding the incidentMeanwhile a video clip of the incident has gone viral on social media The video shows the car ramming into a bike and speeding away even as the victims fall onto the road screaming in painThe police have confirmed that the vehicle was driven by Divya Suresh and eyewitnesses have also identified her as the driverThe incident took place at around 1 30 am on October 4 in the Byatarayanapura locality The complainant stated that the complaint was lodged later as they were initially occupied with arranging treatment for the injured victimAn FIR has been registered against an unknown driver under Sections 281 and 125a of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS and under Sections 134a 134b and 187 of the Indian Motor Vehicles ActThe complaint was filed by Kiran G a resident of Deepanjalinagar According to the FIR a car coming from the direction of the Byatarayanapura Police Station collided with a twowheeler coming from the opposite directionKiran Anusha and Anita were travelling on the bike to a hospital when they fell onto the road after the collision Anita sustained a fracture in her legHowever the police are also verifying claims that the bike rider swerved slightly towards the car to avoid barking stray dogs which may have caused the accident Further investigation is underwayThe family of Anita stated that she has been advised to undergo surgery costing Rs 2 lakh The doctors have also recommended an extended period of bed rest They further mentioned that Divya Suresh has not contacted themAfter the incident despite the victims calling for help the car did not stop at the spot following the collision It was the police who rushed to the scene and made arrangements to shift Anitawho was bleeding severelyto the hospital they added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kannada-actress-involved-in-hit-amp-run-case-bengaluru-police-to-question-divya-suresh-644840.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 16:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/crumbling-frontline-how-ttps-rural-takeover-has-left-pakistan-army-cornered-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-644841.html New Delhi Oct 25 For the Pakistan army Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP is fast becoming uncharted territory Although it has entered into a delicate truce with the Afghan Taliban the army is battling on several other fronts such as KP and Balochistan The internal strife within the country has also heavily stressed the security mechanismIn KP it appears to be a complete takeover by TehreekeTaliban TTP The TTP is following the exact strategy that the Taliban had adopted before the 2021 pullout by the US forcesFirst the TTP infiltrated rural belts and then made a gradual entry into the urban zones This is typical of what the Afghan Taliban had done before 2021An official said that the situation has become so grave due to the TTPs growing strength many soldiers especially those of Punjabi origin are refusing deployment in the region Some of the rural and tribal belts where the TTP is in complete control include areas adjoining North and South Waziristan Bajaur and Khyber Kurram The soldiers are in particular refusing to enter the rural zones because these areas are tricky and the TTP fights better hereMoreover the TTP has local support which makes the matter worse for the Pakistan Army Many soldiers have refused to fight in these zones As a compromise measure it was decided that the soldiers would stand in defensive positions rather than carry out operations to eliminate TTP cadresIn a nutshell it is a shoot if shot at strategy that is in force in rural zones of KP While rural areas were largely dominated by TTP what worries the Pakistan army is the infiltration into the urban zones The infiltration into urban zones like Bara Road corridors and Badaber and Mattani has worried Pakistan Before the TTP breezed through these areas they were under the control of the Frontier Corps and police These zones are now being used to collect funds to fund TTPs operationsIn addition to this terrorists as well as arms and ammunition are being moved through these areas Recently videos of TTP cadres dancing on the roads and collecting funds in the open had surfaced These shots taken from the urban zones show how much the TTP is in charge and how less the army can do about it The videos also show TTP fighters checking vehicles and verifying documents again suggesting that the outfit is in controlWith each passing day the Pakistan army is finding it hard to gain control over the TTP There are multiple reasons why the army is not able to contain the TTP The TTP has a set of fierce fighters whom the army finds hard to beatIn most parts of Pakistan an antiarmy sentiment is building This has been a major factor as the locals tend to support the TTP rather than the army This is the same sentiment that one can see in Balochistan and Pakistanoccupied Kashmir PoK as wellThe army is in a fierce battle with the Balochistan Liberation Army BLA and has suffered immense losses in recent yearsFurther the relationship with the Taliban has not been smooth and this too has added to the armys woes There is the Indian border as well where the Army is busy trying to help terrorists infiltrate By keeping itself busy on so many fronts the army is running out of options and in the bargain has suffered losses IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/crumbling-frontline-how-ttps-rural-takeover-has-left-pakistan-army-cornered-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-644841.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 16:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/woman-doctors-suicide-maharashtra-resident-doctors-launch-protest-threaten-to-strike-work-if-action-against-culprits-not-taken-644847.html Mumbai Oct 25 Following the tragic suicide by a 26yearold female doctor in Satara after being repeatedly raped by a police officer and being pressurised by an MP to falsify medical reports of accused in jail there has been a wave of anger in the medical fraternity over the issue Resident doctors under the banner of the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors MARD staged protests at KEM Hospital in Mumbai on Saturday over the issue As part of their demonstration doctors wore black armbands to express grief and anger over the incident More than 8000 resident doctors across the state participated in the protest demanding justice and a thorough investigation into the case by either the CID or a Special Investigation Team SITSeveral female doctors at KEM Hospital expressed fear and insecurity stating that they worry such incidents could happen again if action is not takenSpeaking to IANS resident doctor Sameer Warge said After this incident we have tied black ribbons and are carrying out a working protest OPD and emergency services have not been stopped However if our demands are not met we will intensify the protest We are demanding the immediate arrest of the accused and proper functioning of the POSH committee so that there is a sense of accountability and deterrence For now we are continuing our duties but if this situation persists we will be forced to stop workAnother protesting doctor said What is most painful is that despite repeated complaints no one listened to her and no action was taken In the end she took her own life Its deeply unfortunate There must be strict action and a transparent investigationpreferably by the CBI or an independent agency Womens grievances must be heard and the POSH Act must be properly implementedResident doctor Bhumika said This is our silent protest We are tying black ribbons on our arms to condemn the incident We have not stopped medical services but we demand a transparent timebound investigation and the arrest of those responsible There should also be a committee to monitor the pressure faced by doctors POSH must be implemented effectively so that doctors especially women can feel safeAnother resident doctor Seenam added Its a very unfortunate incident We want our demands to be met If no action is taken we will be compelled to stop work As doctors we are here to serve but we also deserve a safe and respectful workplaceMeanwhile the female doctor who allegedly committed suicide in Maharashtras Satara district left behind a detailed four page suicide note apart from the inked note on the palm of her hand stating that a police officer raped her four times and exerted pressure on her to issue fake fitness certificates of accused in police cases It has now emerged in her note that she was allegedly under pressure not only from police officials but even from a Member of Parliament MP and his personal assistantsThe woman doctor who worked as a medical officer at the Phaltan subdistrict hospital in Satara also wrote in the note on her palm of her hand that she had been raped four times by SubInspector Gopal Badne and was subjected to mental and physical abuse for over five monthsThe woman doctor who hails from Beed district had been serving in the hospital for 23 months and was just a month away from completing her bond period for service in a rural area when she took the extreme step out of frustrationIn her fourpage suicide note she wrote that police officers pressured her into issuing fake fitness certificates for accused many of whom would not even be brought in for a medical examination When she refused to comply she would be harassed by SubInspector Gopal Badne and others she added in her noteThe reason for my death is SubInspector Gopal Badne who raped me and Prashant Bankar who tortured me mentally and physically for 4 months she said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/woman-doctors-suicide-maharashtra-resident-doctors-launch-protest-threaten-to-strike-work-if-action-against-culprits-not-taken-644847.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 16:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lic-rebuts-washington-post-report-as-false-baseless-far-from-truth-644852.html New Delhi Oct 25 The Life Insurance Corporation of India LIC on Saturday denied false reports by The Washington Post reaffirming all investments are made with integrity and due diligence In a rebuttal to the article LIC said the allegations leveled by The Washington Post that the investment decisions of LIC are influenced by external factors are false baseless and far from truthNo such document or plan as alleged in the article has ever been prepared by LIC which creates a road map for infusing funds by LIC into Adani group of companies the company said in a statementThe article had claimed that officials allegedly fasttracked a proposal in May this year to direct approximately 39 billion in investments from the LIC to an Adani group firmLIC said that the investment decisions are taken independently as per Board approved policies after detailed due diligenceDepartment of Financial Services or any other body does not have any role in such decisions LIC has ensured highest standards of due diligence and all its investment decisions have been undertaken in compliance with extant policies provisions in the Acts and regulatory guidelines in the best interest of all its stakeholders it further stated in the statementLIC said that these purported statements in the article appear to have been made with the intentions to prejudice the well settled decisionmaking process of LIC and also to tarnish the reputation and image of LIC and the strong financial sector foundations in IndiaLIC the countrys largest life insurer reported a 391 per cent yearonyear YoY increase in its consolidated net profit for the June quarter of the current financial year Q1 FY26The profit rose to Rs 10957 crore from Rs 10544 crore recorded in the same period previous year Q1 FY25 according to its stock exchange filing IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lic-rebuts-washington-post-report-as-false-baseless-far-from-truth-644852.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/four-day-chhath-festival-underway-in-bihar-644853.html Patna Oct 25 The grand fourday festival of Chhath a celebration of faith and devotion to the Sun God began on Saturday with the ritual of NahayKhaay Chhath Puja which begins on the Chaturthi Tithi fourth day of the bright fortnight of Kartik month will culminate with offerings to the rising sun on the Saptami Tithi October 28The main ritual of Sandhya Arghya evening offerings to the setting sun will take place on October 27 followed by Usha Arghya morning offerings the next dayThe festival is being celebrated with great fervour and devotion across Bihar Jharkhand eastern Uttar Pradesh and NepalOn NahayKhaay devotees bathed in holy rivers and water bodies cleaned their homes and kitchens and took vows to maintain purity in mind speech and actionThey prepared a simple sattvic meal of pumpkin curry gram dal and rice cooked on clay stoves without onion garlic or regular salt a symbolic act of inner and outer purificationDevotees believe that Chhathi Maiyas blessings begin from this day and hence rituals are performed with utmost discipline and devotionDuring the four days of the festival participants abstain from nonvegetarian food alcohol and negative behaviour emphasising selfcontrol and spiritual cleansingAccording to the Hindu calendar the Shashti Tithi will begin at 604 am on October 27 and end at 759 am on October 28During this period millions of devotees will gather at riverbanks and ponds to offer their prayers to the Sun God a tradition symbolising gratitude toward nature light and lifeThe ghats across Bihar are being decorated and illuminated for the upcoming Sandhya and Usha Arghya which mark the spiritual and visual climax of the festivalThe rhythmic sounds of Chhath songs lighting of lamps and devotional aartis will transform the riverbanks into divine spectacles over the next few days IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/four-day-chhath-festival-underway-in-bihar-644853.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 17:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sir-in-bengal-ceos-office-to-introduce-two-tier-daily-electoral-administration-after-issue-of-notification-644855.html Kolkata Oct 25 The office of the Chief Electoral Officer CEO West Bengal will introduce a twotier daily electoral administration system in the state immediately after the notification for the Special Intensive Revision SIR in the state is issued After the notification is issued an officer in the rank of additional CEO will hold daily interactions with the district magistrates who are also the district electoral officers reviewing the daily progress in the revision exercise in the respective districtsSimilarly a couple of officers in the rank of joint CEO will hold interactions with the electoral registration officers EROs reviewing the progress of the revision exercise in areas under the jurisdiction of the EROsAn insider from the CEOs office said that this twotier electoral administration is aimed at bridging any communication gap between the CEOs office and the districtlevel electoral administration systemThe entire system will run under the direct supervision of the CEOIt has also been decided that immediately after the notification for the SIR is issued the CEOs office will organize matters with all political parties and in this respect also a twotier system will be followedOn one hand the CEO himself will organize a statelevel meeting with all political parties centrally at the CEOs office in Kolkata On the other hand the district magistrates also the district electoral officers will chair meetings with the district leaderships of all parties in the respective districtsWhile at the statelevel meeting the CEO will note the general perspectives demands and grievances of the political parties on the SIR the district electoral officers will take note of districtspecific issues relating to the revision exerciseAlready the Election Commission of India ECI has decided to adopt multiple measures to ensure that boothlevel officers BLOs remain immune from pressure or influence by political parties or the state administration once the revision process beginsThe steps include complete administrative control of the CEOs office on the BLOs who are state government employees so that they cannot be transferred by the state administration during the SIR exercise or forced to get engaged in any other administrative dutyThe CEOs office has been instructed by the ECI to assure BLOs that their security will be given top priority and that any breach or intimidation attempt will be dealt with strictlyBLOs are being advised to handle pressure tactfully and avoid confrontation but to immediately report such incidents directly to the CEOs office which will then consult the ECI headquarters in New Delhi for suitable action IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sir-in-bengal-ceos-office-to-introduce-two-tier-daily-electoral-administration-after-issue-of-notification-644855.html Sat, 25 Oct 2025 17:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/elderly-woman-beaten-up-in-kolkata-for-protesting-against-bursting-firecrackers-644611.html Kolkata Oct 23 An elderly woman on Thursday lodged a complaint against five men for beating her up after she objected against bursting of firecrackers late at night The incident took place in Bhawanipur area in south Kolkata in the early hours of Tuesday The elderly woman alleged that she had gone to the police on the same day but the officers refused to register a complaint as it happened to be the night of Kali Puja when it is common for people to burst firecrackersHowever the woman went to the police station again on Thursday accompanied by a lawyer to lodge the complaint This time the police have registered an FIR against five persons based on her complaint However no one has been arrested so far in connection with the incidentIt has been learnt that Anupama Chowdhury a resident of 4B Asutosh Mukherjee Road alleged that some youth from the neighbourhood were bursting firecrackers at around 130 am on the day of Kali Puja which was beyond the permitted hours for bursting crackersThe elderly woman alleged that she had gone to protest against the bursting of firecrackers with such loud noise She alleged that her house had caught a minor fire from the firecrackers The boys however beaten up the woman and her brother for protesting against bursting of firecrackersSpeaking to a section of media persons the elderly woman said I was sleeping at night Suddenly I saw that the house was filled with smoke I could not breathe I went downstairs and asked the boys to stop bursting firecrackers They forcibly grabbed me and beat me up Locals did not come to my rescueShe feels that she may be attacked again At the same time she raised allegations of noncooperation from the police The police however said that an investigation has started into the matter IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/elderly-woman-beaten-up-in-kolkata-for-protesting-against-bursting-firecrackers-644611.html Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/digital-payments-make-up-998-pc-of-all-transactions-in-h1-2025-rbi-644615.html New Delhi Oct 23 Indias digital payments landscape continues its rapid expansion with digital transactions accounting for 998 per cent of the total payment volume and 977 per cent of the total transaction value in the first half of 2025 H1 2025 according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India RBI Unified Payments Interface UPI continues to dominate the digital ecosystem accounting for 85 per cent of transactions by volume and 9 per cent by value in the first six months of the yearDuring this time the UPI system handled 10637 crore transactions valued at Rs 1433 lakh crore compared to Rs 117 lakh crore in the previous year According to the RBI UPIs effectiveness roundtheclock accessibility and userfriendliness continue to make it the most popular retail fast payment system in IndiaOn the other hand although it only made up 01 per cent of the total volume the Real Time Gross Settlement RTGS system which facilitates highvalue transfers held the largest share in terms of value at 69 per cent In 2024 there were 295 crore RTGS transactions up from 148 crore in 2019 and the transaction value increased from Rs 13887 lakh crore to Rs 19382 lakh croreRTGS handled 161 crore transactions totalling Rs 10792 lakh crore in the first half of 2025 aloneThe RBI explained the divergent trends in volume and value shares by pointing out that RTGS mainly handles largevalue transfers with a minimum transaction threshold of Rs 2 lakh whereas UPI processes a large number of smallvalue transactions Of the Rs 1572 lakh crore in total payment transactions that took place during that time Rs 1536 lakh crore were handled digitallyThe Clearing Corporation of India Limiteds CCIL largevalue payment systems saw growth as well The number of CCIL transactions increased from 35 lakh in 2019 to 45 lakh in 2024 and their value increased from Rs 1270 lakh crore to Rs 2780 lakh crore CCIL recorded 288 lakh transactions totalling Rs 1734 lakh crore in the first half of 2025The RBI data demonstrates how UPI and other innovations along with persistent efforts to encourage cashless transactions throughout the economy have led to Indias payments ecosystem becoming overwhelmingly digital IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/digital-payments-make-up-998-pc-of-all-transactions-in-h1-2025-rbi-644615.html Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:33:00 +0530