DailyWorld News - The First International Newspaper From India https://dailyworld.in/ Fri, 07 Aug 2026 07:02:46 +0530 en https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-expresses-grief-over-loss-of-six-lives-in-pratapgarh-house-collapse--695943.html Pratapgarh Aug 6 IANS Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday expressed deep grief over the loss of six lives in a house collapse in Pratapgarh district and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved familyCM Yogi took to social media X and said The loss of life in an unfortunate accident in Pratapgarh district is deeply saddening My condolences are with the bereaved families I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed souls a place at his holy feet and a speedy recovery to the injuredDistrict Magistrate Abhishek Pandey and Superintendent of Police Deepak Bhukar visited the site where six members of a family lost their lives after a dilapidated house collapsed The officials inspected the scene and also met the lone survivor Aman SrivastavaSpeaking to reporters District Magistrate Abhishek Pandey said The house belonged to Pramod Srivastava A room on the second floor had a roof constructed using an old building technique Preliminary findings suggest that the roof built with this outdated method collapsedHe further said that all seven family members were sleeping in the same room where an airconditioner had been installed when the tragedy occurredOut of the seven people sleeping in the room six were killed Aman survived and is currently under clinical observation It is deeply tragic that almost the entire family was wiped out in a single incident We have received instructions to stand firmly with the family and provide all possible assistance he saidPandey added that he had spoken to Aman and assured him that all eligible government benefits and relief measures would be provided within 24 hoursThe six members of the Srivastava family were killed and another injured after a nearly 100yearold house collapsed amid heavy rainfall in the Mahuli locality under the Kotwali police station area of Uttar Pradeshs Pratapgarh district in the early hours of ThursdayAccording to police all seven family members were asleep in the same room when the structure suddenly gave way burying them under the debris Rescue teams rushed to the spot launched an operation and pulled the victims from the rubble One survivor was rescued alive and admitted to a hospital for treatmentSpeaking to reporters injured survivor Aman Srivastava recounted the tragedy When I woke up I realised I was buried under the debris I somehow managed to get out and saw that all my family members were trapped I first tried to rescue them myself but I couldnt so I started shouting for help Family members neighbours and others gathered at the spot All seven of us were sleeping in the same room My parents my younger brother my wife and our two young children were inside I was rescued but they all died he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-expresses-grief-over-loss-of-six-lives-in-pratapgarh-house-collapse--695943.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 10:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-arrests-another-absconding-accused-in-praveen-nettaru-murder-case-695944.html New Delhi Aug 6 IANS The National Investigation Agency NIA has arrested another key absconding accused in the 2022 murder of Karnataka BJP leader Praveen Nettaru taking the total number of arrests in the highprofile case to 25The accused identified as Ummar Farook MR was apprehended on Wednesday from Kochi Kerala following a targeted operation based on credible intelligence inputsUmmar Farook who had been absconding was wanted in the case and had a Red Corner Notice RCN and a nonbailable warrant issued against him The investigating agency had also announced a reward of Rs 4 lakh for information leading to his arrestThe NIA had earlier chargesheeted Ummar Farook in connection with the conspiracy behind the murder under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code IPC and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act UAPA Investigations revealed that he attended a conspiracy meeting at the office of the banned Popular Front of India PFI in Sullia town along with other accused personsAccording to the investigation Ummar Farook had agreed to provide his motorcycle to a coaccused for identifying potential targets and conducting reconnaissance in Bellare village before the murder He is also accused of participating along with other coaccused in an attempt to eliminate a protected witness in the caseThe latest arrest comes weeks after the NIA in July this year apprehended two other absconding accused Abdul Nasir P alias Nasir and Naushad from Kochi in Kerala and Hosur in Tamil Nadu respectively in a coordinated operation based on information received from the Andhra Pradesh PoliceThe murder of Praveen Nettaru a local BJP leader from Dakshina Kannada district on July 26 2022 had triggered widespread outrage and led to the NIA taking over the investigation The agencys probe has revealed that the killing was part of a larger criminal conspiracy allegedly orchestrated by cadres of the banned PFIIn the case two accused still remain absconding Efforts are continuing to trace and arrest the remaining fugitives and bring the investigation to its logical conclusionIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-arrests-another-absconding-accused-in-praveen-nettaru-murder-case-695944.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 10:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nadda-to-visit-flood-hit-arunachal-pradesh-review-relief-and-rehabilitation-measures-695945.html Itanagar Aug 6 IANS Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda is scheduled to visit Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday to assess the floodaffected areas of the state and review the ongoing rehabilitation relief and healthcare measures being undertaken for those impacted by the disasterThe Arunachal Pradesh visit marks the third and final leg of Naddas threeday tour of the flood and landslideaffected northeastern states of Assam Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh where he has been assessing the extent of damage and reviewing relief efforts on the groundDuring his visit the Union Minister is expected to inspect regions affected by floods flash floods and cloudbursts His itinerary is also likely to include visits to relief camps inspections of damaged infrastructure and interactions with residents who have been affected by the natural calamitiesEarlier on Wednesday Nadda assured the people of Assam that the Centre would extend all necessary support for relief rehabilitation and reconstruction work in floodaffected areas reiterating the Union governments commitment to helping affected families rebuild their livesAccompanied by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma the Union Minister visited the floodhit Bihubor and Nepali Khuti areas in Sivasagar district where he reviewed the ground situation and interacted with families impacted by the recent floodsWhile addressing local residents during the visit Nadda said the Central government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood firmly with the people of Assam and would ensure that relief and rehabilitation work proceeds without any shortage of resourcesHe also stated that teams deputed by the Centre were already carrying out detailed assessments of the losses caused by the floods so that rehabilitation and restoration measures could be implemented at the earliestThe Bihubor and Nepali Khuti areas in Sivasagar district have suffered extensive damage due to the recent flooding with hundreds of homes damaged large stretches of agricultural land submerged and significant livestock losses reportedLater in the day Nadda travelled to Nagaland where he was accompanied by the states Health and Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal and Rajya Sabha MP from Nagaland Phangnon Konyak to inspect landslideaffected areas in Mon townDuring the visit the Union Minister inspected the landslidehit Defence Colony and adjoining affected areas in Techa Ward He also met bereaved families and interacted with displaced residents staying at the Konyak Union OfficeNadda assured the affected families that the Central government stands firmly with the Nagaland government in tackling the ongoing flood and landslide situation He said the Narendra Modiled government is working in close coordination with the state administration to ensure that timely relief and every possible assistance reach all affected familiesHeavy rainfall had triggered multiple landslides across Mon district with Defence Colony and nearby localities emerging among the worsthit areas Several residential houses suffered extensive damage forcing many families to leave their homes The landslides also disrupted road connectivity at several locations while power and water supply were temporarily affected in parts of the districtIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nadda-to-visit-flood-hit-arunachal-pradesh-review-relief-and-rehabilitation-measures-695945.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 10:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-agriculture-budget-today-crop-loan-waiver-higher-msp-in-focus-695947.html Chennai Aug 6 IANS Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister R Vinoth will present the states separate Agriculture Budget for 202627 in the Legislative Assembly on Thursday with farmers looking for major announcements on crop loan waivers higher procurement prices and measures to address climaterelated challengesnbspThe Agriculture Budget comes a day after Finance Minister N Marie Wilson presented the Revised Budget Estimates for 202627 the maiden Budget of the TVK government headed by Chief Minister C Joseph VijayExpectations are high among farmers particularly over a possible crop loan waiver Farmers organisations have been pressing the government to waive cooperative crop loans availed up to February 28 and are hoping the Agriculture Budget will provide clarity on the extent and financial framework of such reliefMinimum Support Price and procurement incentives for key crops are also expected to receive considerable attentionRecent review meetings chaired by Chief Minister Vijay have discussed measures to improve returns for farmers with paddy and sugarcane among the major crops in focus Farmers are expecting the government to announce enhanced procurement incentives steps to reduce production costs and measures to ensure timely paymentsStrengthening procurement centres and simplifying procedures for farmers selling their produce to government agencies are also among the demandsClimate resilience is likely to emerge as another major theme of the Budget Several agricultural regions have faced increasingly erratic weather conditions including drought excessive rainfall and changing monsoon patterns affecting crop yields and farm incomes The government is expected to outline measures for drought mitigation irrigation improvement and water conservation particularly in the Cauvery delta and droughtprone southern districtsInvestments in agricultural infrastructure farm mechanisation storage facilities and modern technologies could also feature in the BudgetIn the general Budget presented on Wednesday the government earmarked Rs 14984 crore under the Revised Budget Estimates for the Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department providing the financial backdrop for Thursdays sectorspecific announcementsThe Agriculture Budget is also expected to spell out the TVK governments longerterm strategy for increasing agricultural productivity strengthening farmers incomes and attracting investment into food processing and allied sectorsWith the government beginning its first full budgetary exercise after assuming office Thursdays Agriculture Budget will be closely watched for how far the TVK administration translates its election commitments to farmers into concrete schemes and financial allocationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-agriculture-budget-today-crop-loan-waiver-higher-msp-in-focus-695947.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 11:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-deadlock-continues-house-adjourned-till-2-pm-amid-oppn-uproar--695955.html New Delhi Aug 6 IANS The Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 pm on Thursday after repeated appeals by Speaker Om Birla to maintain order in the House went unheeded as persistent sloganeering by Opposition members disrupted proceedingsThe Opposition continued its protests over the NEET paper leak demonstrations demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the police action against protesters as well as the alleged Ram Temple donation theft controversyWith the House unable to function amid the uproar Speaker Om Birla adjourned the proceedings till 2 pmThe continuing protests have prevented the Question Hour from functioning even for a single day during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament as repeated disruptions kept stalling regular legislative businessOn Wednesday despite sustained protests by Opposition members the Lok Sabha passed a Bill aimed at recognising digital and virtual records as admissible evidence in courtsThe legislation which was cleared through a voice vote without any discussion seeks to modernise the legal framework governing evidence related to bankers books by bringing it in line with contemporary digital banking practices It also covers matters connected or incidental to the legislationMeanwhile Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticised the Opposition for protesting over the alleged Ram Temple donation scam accusing Congress the CPI and the Samajwadi Party of consistently opposing Lord RamReferring to the Oppositions chanda chori skit staged within the Parliament premises Rijiju said it had hurt the sentiments of people across the countryThe Union Minister also alleged that the Opposition was deliberately preventing Parliament from functioningKC Venugopal is a good man but he is unable to make his party members understand and maintain decorum Rijiju told the House while asserting that the government was prepared for a discussionMeanwhile targeting the BJP over the Ram Temple issue Venugopal said The people who looted the Ram temple are now accusing Congress of being Ram virodhi People will laugh at such allegations We are asking for action against those who took money from Ram temple donations and they have no answer to thatIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-deadlock-continues-house-adjourned-till-2-pm-amid-oppn-uproar--695955.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 12:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rs-sees-heated-exchanges-between-rijiju-and-kharge-over-rule-interpretations-695959.html New Delhi Aug 6 IANS Rajya Sabha proceedings on Thursday were marked by sharp verbal exchanges and persistent Opposition protests demanding the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah in the HousenbspnbspDespite continuous sloganeering of Grih Mantri Sadan Mein Aao Chairman CP Radhakrishnan allowed Question Hour to proceed soon after the House reassembled at noonHe told opposition members that the Leader of Opposition LoP would be given the floor once the initial questions concludedFollowing the first set of questions the Chairman invited LoP Mallikarjun Kharge to speak A heated faceoff quickly developed between Kharge and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren RijijuDefending the Oppositions stance Kharge asserted that members were raising critical matters of national importance and reiterated the demand that the Prime Minister and Home Minister address the House He insisted it was his right to decide how to speak what to speak and when to speakCiting former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Kharge maintained that disruption is part of democracy and that members possess the fundamental right to raise pressing public questionsThe debate intensified as Kharge accused Rijiju of misapplying parliamentary rules alleging he had quoted Rule 239 while overlooking Rule 238 which says a personal charge or defamatory incriminatory allegations against another member cannot be made and criticised earlier remarks concerning Congress leader Pawan KheraKharge stressed that no inflammatory or defamatory statements should be permitted inside the chamberCountering the allegations Rijiju clarified that he had initially cited Rule 240 and pointed out that Opposition members were repeatedly raising matters already addressed with the Chairs permissionHe said he was always ready to facilitate new members and noted that Khera being a new member had not yet made his maiden speech a point he had mentioned in the morning sessionRijiju said new members should also be given an opportunity to speakResponding to the demand for the Home Ministers presence Rijiju said that while members could request decisions from the Chair they could not dictate nor issue directions on which minister should be present in the House adding that we are all collectively responsibleChairman Radhakrishnan noted his intent to facilitate newer members and observed that one member had yet to deliver a maiden speech He however told the Parliamentary Affairs Minister to respect the sentiments of the Opposition as they are demanding the Home Ministers presenceThe Chairman firmly underlined that no rule permits members to shout against the ChairAs the Chairman attempted to restore order and proceed with Question Hour he called upon member John BrittasWhen Brittas thanked the Chair for directing the Parliamentary Affairs Minister the Chairman declined to entertain the point further and adjourned the House until 215 pm amid the unrelenting protestsEarlier during Question Hour Manoj Jha asked the government about steps taken to ensure representation of judges from Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste communities in the higher judiciary Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal replied that the government always sends its recommendations to include judges from ST and SC communities in the Memorandum of Procedure MoP which lays down the procedure for appointment and transfer of judges to the Supreme Court and State High CourtsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rs-sees-heated-exchanges-between-rijiju-and-kharge-over-rule-interpretations-695959.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 14:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/row-erupts-over-revocation-of-permission-for-rahul-gandhis-student-event-in-up-cong-cries-foul-695972.html New Delhi Aug 6 IANS The withdrawal of permission for Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhis Chhatron ki Goonj event slated to be held in Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj has snowballed into a major controversy with many Congress leaders calling out shameful conduct allegedly at the behest of the BJP government in the statenbspRahul Gandhi was set to address a gathering of students at KP Ground on August 8 but the venue permission has been revoked just two days before the scheduled address The Kayastha Pathshala Trust which owns the KP Ground cancelled the permission citing unsafe conditions in light of incessant rains and also a court orderHowever a string of Congress leaders cried foul over the abrupt cancellation of the venue accusing the BJP of crushing dissent and throttling democracyUP Congress chief Ajay Rai saw a BJP design in disrupting Rahuls Chhatron ki Goonj events across the country and claimed that the ruling dispensation was making futile attempts to block the LoPs dialogue with studentsFirst Kota Rajasthan then Dehradun Uttarakhand and now Prayagraj the BJP government is making futile attempts everywhere to stop this historic dialogue between the youth and Rahul Gandhi he said on XHe asserted that the programme will go on in Prayagraj and also made a fervent appeal to students and examination aspirants to reach the city on the dayMany Congress MPs and leaders reacted to the cancellation of permission for Rahuls muchpublicised students event venue with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra telling scribes in a oneliner Dont know what they are afraid ofCongress MP Vivek Tankha speaking to scribes on Parliament premises said This amounts to throttling democracy and questioned the governments approach in upholding democratic valuesAnother Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi called out the shameful conduct and slammed the administration over attempts to stop students engagementWhat could be more shameful than this You are afraid of a students programme You are unwilling to engage with students yourselves and when the Leader of Opposition goes to interact with them you cancel the permission for the programme he saidSamajwadi Party MP Iqra Hassan called the move unconstitutional saying In a democracy everyone has the right to go anywhere and preventing someone from doing so only reflects the weakness of the governmentIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/row-erupts-over-revocation-of-permission-for-rahul-gandhis-student-event-in-up-cong-cries-foul-695972.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 15:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-busts-telegram-based-part-time-cyber-job-scam-arrests-two-from-rajasthan-695977.html New Delhi Aug 6 Delhi Polices Cyber Police Station in the Central District has arrested two cyber criminals from Rajasthan for their involvement in a Telegrambased parttime job and investment scam The accused were engaged in procuring and supplying mule bank accounts to cyber fraud syndicates enabling the transfer and laundering of money obtained through online scams According to police the case came to light after a complaint was lodged on July 9 regarding a Telegrambased fraud in which the victim was cheated of Rs 284100 The complainant reported that he was initially approached on June 9 by a Telegram user identified as Payal Singh Jaat who assigned him online review tasks related to Foodpanda The tasks appeared genuine and were designed to gain the victims trustSubsequently on July 2 the complainant was introduced to another Telegram user identified as Gaurika Ojas mhhgdzs who persuaded him to invest money in an online investment scheme by promising unusually high returnsBelieving the claims made by the fraudsters the victim transferred a total of Rs 284100 through UPI and IMPS transactions from his State Bank of India SBI and Punjab National Bank PNB accounts to several bank accounts provided by the accusedBased on the complaint an EFIR No 1902026 dated July 9 under Sections 3184 and 319 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS was registered at the Cyber Police Station Central DistrictDuring the investigation police traced the movement of the defrauded funds through multiple beneficiary accounts maintained in different banks including the Central Bank of India Kerala Gramin Bank and State Bank of IndiaA detailed analysis of the money trail revealed that Rs 100000 from the cheated amount had been credited into a Central Bank of India account held in the name of Dinesh at the Marudhar Industrial Area Branch in Jodhpur RajasthanFurther scrutiny of the account revealed that Rs 80000 had been withdrawn through a Central Bank of India ATM in Jodhpur while another Rs 38000 was withdrawn from an HDFC Bank ATM in Ajmer Investigators also found evidence of expenditure amounting to Rs 19500 at a petrol pumpUsing technical surveillance financial transaction analysis and bank records police established the involvement of the account holder A dedicated police team led by Inspector Yograj Dalal SHO of Cyber Police Station Central District was formed under the supervision of ACP Paharganj Saurabh A Narendra The team included ASI Pankaj Head Constables Ravi Kant and Ashok and Constable NitinActing on specific inputs the team conducted a raid in Jodhpur on July 31 and apprehended Dinesh aged 21 During interrogation investigators reportedly obtained substantial incriminating evidence linking him to the fraud He was subsequently arrested in the caseBased on Dineshs disclosure statement police traced and arrested his alleged associate Vikas Siyag a 20yearold resident of Jodhpur Investigators believe the duo played a key role in arranging and supplying mule bank accounts that were used to receive and transfer money generated through cyber fraudPolice recovered four mobile phones and one SIM card from the accused The seized devices have been sent for forensic examination to uncover further evidence and identify other members of the syndicateDuring the investigation authorities also found that the bank account used in the present case was linked to five cyber crime complaints registered in different jurisdictions indicating its repeated use in cyberenabled financial frauds Verification of the criminal antecedents of both accused is currently underwayFurther investigation is in progress to identify and apprehend other members of the cyber fraud network involved in the scam IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-busts-telegram-based-part-time-cyber-job-scam-arrests-two-from-rajasthan-695977.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cabinet-expansion-grievances-persist-despite-karnataka-cm-shivakumar-surjewalas-outreach-to-mlas-695982.html Bengaluru Aug 6 Despite efforts by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and AICC Karnataka incharge Randeep Singh Surjewala to pacify disgruntled Congress legislators following the recent Cabinet expansion protests and expressions of dissatisfaction continued across the state on Thursday In Kolar district a bandh was observed in Bangarpet in support of threeterm MLA SN Narayanaswamy whose supporters demanded that he be inducted into the state Cabinet Protesters exempted emergency services from the shutdown but organised bike rallies blocked the Kolar Main Road and burnt tyres alleging that the senior legislator had been overlooked despite his contributions to the partyIn Koppal district supporters of senior Congress leader Raghavendra Hitnal continued their agitation over his exclusion from the Cabinet Several party workers announced that they would resign from their organisational posts in protest Hitnal however maintained that he would take a decision on his future course of action after a weekA similar protest was witnessed in Haveri district where supporters of Byadagi MLA Basavaraj Shivannavar along with members of the Kuruba community called for a bandh demanding his inclusion in the Cabinet Supporters said they would urge former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah who also belongs to the Kuruba community to ensure Shivannavar was accommodated in the ministryMeanwhile senior Congress leader Yashavanthrayagouda Patil of Vijayapura who had earlier resigned from his Assembly membership in protest announced that he was withdrawing his resignation following appeals from supporters and discussions with SurjewalaAddressing the media Patil on Thursday said he had reconsidered his decision after witnessing the affection and support shown by people in his constituencyI have withdrawn my resignation keeping in mind the sentiments of the people The pressure from my supporters and wellwishers convinced me that the love of the people is more valuable than a ministerial post I will remain in the Congress till my last breath he saidPatil said he had questioned Surjewala about the assurance allegedly given to him in 2023 regarding a Cabinet berth According to him the Congress leader explained the circumstances behind the final selection of ministers following which he was satisfied with the clarificationHe said he had been promised a ministerial position during the formation of the government under Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah after the 2023 Assembly elections However he alleged that the assurance was not honoured prompting him to submit his resignationSurjewala came to my residence and held detailed discussions with me He requested me not to be upset over missing out on a Cabinet berth After requests from party leaders and supporters I have decided to withdraw my resignation I have no intention of joining any other political party in search of a position Patil saidAnother disgruntled senior Congress MLA BR Patil from Aland in Kalaburagi district continued to express disappointment over being denied a ministerial berthHe said he was unsure whether Siddaramaiahs explanation that local leaders had created obstacles to his induction was genuine or merely an excuseI never approached anyone seeking a ministerial post Leaders from my own district became a roadblock to my inclusion in the Cabinet Siddaramaiah himself has spoken about this but I do not know whether he is stating the truth or merely saying it for the sake of it BR Patil saidHe further claimed that Siddaramaiah had personally called him three times before the Assembly elections and promised him a ministerial position while campaigning for himI never demanded a Cabinet berth It was Siddaramaiah who assured me that I would be made a minister Going back on that promise has caused me immense disappointment he addedThe continuing protests in several districts despite sustained efforts by the party leadership to contain the rebellion indicate that the Congress is yet to fully overcome the resentment triggered by the latest Cabinet expansion IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cabinet-expansion-grievances-persist-despite-karnataka-cm-shivakumar-surjewalas-outreach-to-mlas-695982.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-steel-production-clocks-4-pc-growth-in-april-july-this-fiscal-govt-695983.html New Delhi Aug 6 Indiaâs production of finished steel during AprilJuly in the current financial year went up to 543 million tonnes which represents a 4 per cent increase over the corresponding figure of 522 million tonnes in the same fourmonth period last year according to data released by the Ministry of Steel on Thursday The countryâs consumption of finished steel shot up by a robust 78 per cent to 559 million tonnes during AprilJuly compared with 519 million tonnes in the same period last year as demand from bigticket infrastructure projects taken up by the government in the highways railways and port sectors fuelled demandIndiaâs steel exports also surged by 35 per cent during AprilJuly this year to 2292300 tonnes compared with the corresponding figure of 1698000 tonnes in the same period last year In value terms the exports during AprilJuly jumped by 294 per cent to Rs 181054 crore from Rs 139962 crore in the same period last yearIndiaâs steel exports also surged by 381 per cent in June to 616200 tonnes compared with the corresponding figure of 446200 tonnes in the same month last year The production of crude steel was recorded at 563 million tonnes in AprilJuly of the current financial year compared with 549 million tonnes in the same period of the previous year which represents a 26 per cent increase Indias total crude steelmaking capacity currently stands at 222 million tonnes per annum keeping the industry on track to achieve the National Steel Policy target of 300 million tonnes per annum by 2030 according to an official statementPublic steel giant SAIL reported a strong performance in the first quarter of FY 202627 with net profit rising over 138 per cent yearonyear to Rs 1636 crore The company recorded revenue from operations of Rs 26246 crore during the quarter reflecting improved financial performanceSAIL received a Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology LAToT from the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory of DRDO to manufacture DMR249A DMR249B and DMR249BK grade steel for naval ships and submarines strengthening Indias indigenous capability in specialised defencesteel manufacturing and supporting the countrys defence manufacturing sectorSAIL also marked a sustainability milestone with the inauguration of its first Micro Pellet Plant at Rourkela Steel Plant in July 2026 â a 018 MTPA facility that converts steelmaking waste into valueadded micro pellets The plant supports RSPs efforts to reduce landfill waste and improve raw material selfsufficiency by recycling process residues IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-steel-production-clocks-4-pc-growth-in-april-july-this-fiscal-govt-695983.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-vijay-hails-tvks-debut-budgets-as-roadmap-for-inclusive-growth-695992.html Chennai Aug 6 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Thursday congratulated Finance Minister N Marie Wilson and Agriculture and Farmersâ Welfare Minister R Vinoth for presenting the stateâs Revised Budget and Agriculture Budget for 202627 saying the financial proposals were designed to promote inclusive growth and strengthen the livelihoods of people across sectors In a statement issued after the presentation of the Agriculture Budget in the Legislative Assembly CM Vijay said the two budgets reflected the governmentâs commitment to Tamil Naduâs development while placing the welfare of its people at the centre of policymakingThe Chief Minister conveyed his appreciation to Finance Planning and Development Minister Marie Wilson for presenting the Revised Budget for 202627 and to Vinoth for unveiling the Agriculture BudgetThe Agriculture Budget was presented in the Assembly on Thursday with Vinoth outlining a series of schemes and initiatives covering farmers agricultural production and allied sectors The Minister began reading his Budget speech at 931 am and concluded at 1138 am speaking for more than two hoursCM Vijay said the revised budget had been formulated with a broad vision to create new opportunities and improve the welfare of different sections of society He said the proposals were aimed at supporting students youth women children persons with disabilities transgender persons workers fishermen weavers entrepreneurs and government employees among othersThe Budget he said sought to give fresh hope to people from all sections while laying the foundation for the stateâs longterm economic and social developmentReferring to the Agriculture Budget CM Vijay said it had been specifically designed to strengthen farmersâ welfare and livelihoods while accelerating the development of agriculture and allied activities across Tamil NaduThe Budget also focuses on livestock farming fisheries and dairy farming besides encouraging food processing and valueadded industries linked to the agricultural economyThe Chief Minister said strengthening these sectors would help create additional livelihood opportunities improve farmersâ economic security and contribute to the overall development of rural Tamil NaduCM Vijay said the governmentâs fiscal and agricultural plans were intended to ensure that economic progress reached people across different sections of society and regions of the StateExpressing confidence in the governmentâs development agenda the Chief Minister said Tamil Nadu should continue its journey towards greater prosperity with the participation and welfare of all sections of society at its core IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-vijay-hails-tvks-debut-budgets-as-roadmap-for-inclusive-growth-695992.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-issues-contempt-notice-to-lda-vice-chairman-seeks-sit-report-on-lucknow-fire-tragedy--696020.html New Delhi Aug 6 IANS The Supreme Court has issued notice in contempt proceedings against the ViceChairman of the Lucknow Development Authority LDA over alleged noncompliance with its directions on illegal constructions and landuse violations while taking serious note of the recent Lucknow tragedy in which 15 students lost their lives in a building being used for commercial activitynbspA Bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and R Mahadevan directed the LDA ViceChairman to remain personally present on the next date of hearing and show cause as to why appropriate orders should not be passed against him for noncompliance with the apex courts earlier ordersnbspThis Court is constrained to issue notice in the contempt proceedings as it is an admitted position that no effective action has been taken against those who have blatantly violated the sanctioned land use prescribed under the Master Plan the Justice Amanullahled Bench saidThe apex court was informed by amicus curiae and senior advocate Ajit Kumar Sinha that the devastating blaze at a commercial building in Lucknows Aliganj area claimed the lives of 15 students and left many others injured following which the structure was demolishedAccording to the amicus a demolition order had originally been passed on May 10 2016 but was recalled by the same authority on July 5 2016 on a technical ground after which no further action was taken until the fatal incident occurrednbspTaking note of the submissions the Justice Amanullahled Bench said it had been informed that a Special Investigation Team SIT had been constituted and had submitted its report Let the report be produced before this Court in a sealed cover on the next date of hearing it orderedThe ViceChairman Lucknow Development Authority shall remain personally present on the next date of hearing to show cause as to why appropriate orders should not be passed against him for noncompliance with the orders of this Court the apex court addednbspWhile directing the LDA ViceChairman to remain personally present at the next hearing the Supreme Court dispensed with the personal appearance of the Lucknow Municipal Commissioner for the time beingnbspThe top court also impleaded the Lucknow Development Authority through its ViceChairman as a party respondent after noting that though it was not originally a party to the proceedings it had filed an affidavit along with an application seeking impleadment The proceedings arise from the Supreme Courts continuing monitoring of illegal constructions and unauthorised landuse violations across the countrynbspLast month the apex court had come down heavily on civic authorities over rampant illegal constructions and repeated noncompliance with its earlier directions observing that if officials fail to act even after the top courts orders it raises serious concerns about the plight of ordinary citizensnbspIt had also flagged recent fire incidents and building collapses including the one in Lucknow warning that ineffective enforcement of building laws could have disastrous consequences and that officials entrusted with implementing its directions would be held personally accountable for any failure to actnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-issues-contempt-notice-to-lda-vice-chairman-seeks-sit-report-on-lucknow-fire-tragedy--696020.html Thu, 06 Aug 2026 19:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ethanol-policy-bombay-hc-orders-removal-of-defamatory-social-media-posts-against-gadkari-695752.html Mumbai Aug 5 IANS In a significant relief to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari the Bombay High Court on Wednesday directed the removal of defamatory and AIgenerated deepfake content circulating on social media platforms that falsely linked him and his family members to the Central governments E20 ethanol blending programmenbspThe courts order came while hearing a civil suit filed by Gadkari against major technology and social media companies including Meta X and GoogleYouTube along with unidentified content creators accused of publishing and disseminating the disputed materialAccording to the petition several manipulated videos deepfakes and misleading social media posts alleged that Gadkari and his family had benefited financially from the governments ethanolblended fuel policynbspThe Minister contended that the content was fabricated malicious and aimed at damaging his reputation by spreading false narratives among the publicnbspIn his plea Gadkari clarified that the Ethanol Blending Programme including the implementation of E20 ethanolmixed petrol falls entirely under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and has no connection with the ministry headed by himnbspThe petition argued that linking him or his family to the policy for personal gain was factually incorrect and defamatorynbspSeeking urgent judicial intervention Gadkari had requested immediate removal of the objectionable content from all digital platforms He also sought damages of Rs 11 crore for the alleged reputational harm caused by the circulation of the false and manipulated materialThe suit further highlighted the growing challenge posed by deepfake technology and misinformation on social media platforms arguing that intermediaries have a responsibility to act promptly against demonstrably false and defamatory content The legal action is aimed at holding platform operators accountable for allowing the dissemination of fabricated and derogatory material while not impeding legitimate public discourse or criticismThe High Courts directive marks a significant step in addressing concerns over the misuse of artificial intelligence and social media platforms to spread misinformation involving public figuresIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/national/ethanol-policy-bombay-hc-orders-removal-of-defamatory-social-media-posts-against-gadkari-695752.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/someone-has-to-pay-cost-but-mdr-on-upi-proposal-still-premature-rbi-governor-695754.html Mumbai Aug 5 IANS RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said on Wednesday that costs have to be paid by someone for the sustainability of the public infrastructure for digital payments to run the UPI system but this may not fall on general consumersnbspHe was responding to a question at a press conference here on how the RBI plans to impose a merchant discount rate MDR or commission on UPI transactionsnbspnbspIt is very premature to say something on it lets wait and watch for the development ultimately it is the consumers who pay but it may not be the general consumers he remarkedThe RBI Governor had also said last month that digital infrastructure costs have to be covered but there is no formal framework or proposal to charge everyday usersnbspThe Finance Ministry has proposed legislative changes to the Payment and Settlement Systems Act which is aimed to allow potential flexibility for future merchant charges on highvalue UPI transactions above 2000 However regular consumer UPI payments would remain free according to senior officialsGovernment officials said that over 90 per cent of the transactions that include daily purchases of milk vegetables and groceries will not attract an MDR chargenbspAt present credit and debit card purchases come under MDR but most merchants to do not pass on the cost to consumersnbspThe finance ministry proposed amending section 10A of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act removing rigid zerocharge mandates to allow future government notification on transaction feesThe Bill introduced in the Lok Sabha changes the legal framework giving the government the flexibility to decide in the future which digital payment modes should remain exempt from charges and which could attract MDRnbspCurrently the law prevents banks and payment service providers from levying charges on notified payment modes such as UPI and RuPay debit cardsnbspThe amendment would remove this blanket statutory protection and pave the way for the government to notify which electronic payment modes will remain exempt from charges and which could attract MDRIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/someone-has-to-pay-cost-but-mdr-on-upi-proposal-still-premature-rbi-governor-695754.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/meta-row-parliamentary-panel-seeks-mark-zuckerberg-apology-in-3-days-695757.html New Delhi Aug 5 IANS A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Wednesday took strong exception to the temporary removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modis video from Facebook and has sought an apology from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg within three daysnbspAccording to a letter sent to the Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology MeitY the committee viewed the removal of the Prime Ministers speech very seriouslyThe video which featured PM Modi addressing students and Gen Z on examinationrelated controversies and the governments crackdown on paper leaks was reportedly unavailable on Facebook for around five to six hoursThe letter signed by A Jyothirmayi Director in the Lok Sabha Secretariat warned that the protection and immunity available to Zuckerberg could be reconsidered if an apology is not issued within the stipulated periodI am directed to refer to the meeting of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology 202526 held on August 3 2026 with representatives of Ministry of Home Affairs Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Social and Digital Media Platforms Snapchat Google X Meta Facebook WhatsApp and Instagram and YouTube on Social and Digital platforms and their regulation Jyothirmayi saidThe removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modis video addressing students and Gen Z regarding examination controversies and strict actions against paper leaks from Facebook for 56 hours viewed very seriously by the Committee Jyothirmayi statedThe panel said the incident raised concerns over the handling of content involving the Prime Minister and called for accountability from the social media giant It asked the government to take up the matter and ensure an appropriate response from MetaDuring the deliberations the Committee demanded an apology from Mark Zukerberg Meta Chief on this issue she notedIf he fails to tender an unqualified apology within 3 days of receipt of this letter the protectionimmunity given under Section 793 of IT Act may be withdrawn and action taken against him as a Publisher Jyothirmayi mentionedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/meta-row-parliamentary-panel-seeks-mark-zuckerberg-apology-in-3-days-695757.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjps-bansuri-swaraj-attacks-rahul-over-rss-remarks-questions-his-silence-on-jharkhand-exams-row-695761.html New Delhi Aug 5 IANS BJP Member of Parliament Bansuri Swaraj on Wednesday slammed Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition LoP Rahul Gandhi over his recent remarks targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh RSS alleging that the Congress leader lacks the vision for a positive agenda and relies on accusations instead of constructive politicsnbspHer remarks came against the backdrop of Rahul Gandhis continued criticism of the RSS in which he has accused the organisation of attempting institutional capture rewriting Indias history and exercising influence over key Union ministries and public universities through the backdoorReacting to the remarks Bansuri Swaraj accused Rahul Gandhi of lacking a developmental vision and said his politics was centred on allegations rather than meaningful public discoursenbspSpeaking to reporters she said Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi has neither a vision for development nor a positive agenda His politics is based only on allegations and creating illusions Due to a lack of facts he repeatedly targets national and ideological organisationsnbspThe BJP MP further defended the RSS saying the organisation has been serving the nation for nearly a century through voluntary efforts and has consistently contributed to relief work during natural disasters and other emergenciesThe RSS which has been contributing selflessly to nationbuilding for the last 100 years and is often the first to undertake relief work during disasters is repeatedly subjected to baseless allegations by Rahul Gandhi she saidnbspThis is truly shameful behaviour of Rahul Gandhi The countrys voters have repeatedly rejected Rahul Gandhi and the divisive policies of the Congress party Swaraj saidnbspOn Tuesday during a meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence Gandhi reportedly alleged that the RSSs involvement in Sainik Schools across the country was increasing unnecessarilyAt a separate book launch event held the same day the Leader of the Opposition also accused the RSS and the BJP of promoting the idea that India is not a collective expression of its diverse culturesSwaraj also questioned Rahul Gandhi over what she described as his selective approach towards issues concerning students and examinationrelated controversiesnbspReferring to paper leak cases in states governed by parties belonging to the INDIA bloc she asked why the Congress leader had remained silent on those incidentsnbspShe said she wants to ask Rahul Gandhi why he sheds crocodile tears over student protests in Delhi but maintains silence over exam controversy in JharkhandIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjps-bansuri-swaraj-attacks-rahul-over-rss-remarks-questions-his-silence-on-jharkhand-exams-row-695761.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/shashi-tharoor-questions-delay-in-lgbtqia-panels-work-695765.html New Delhi Aug 5 IANS The Centres HighPowered Committee constituted to examine issues concerning samesex couples has met only twice since its formation more than two years ago and is yet to submit any recommendation or report according to the governments written reply to an unstarred question raised by Congress MP Dr Shashi Tharoor in the Lok SabhanbspThe reply received by Tharoor on Tuesday states that the committee was constituted pursuant to the Supreme Courts judgment in the Supriyo caseIt also says that the panels last meeting was held more than two years agoReacting to the reply in a social media post Tharoor said on Wednesday The Governments reply to my question lays bare the utter failure of the HighPowered Committee constituted pursuant to the Supreme Courts Supriyo judgment and more importantly the Governments complete lack of political will to address the concerns of samesex couples and secure meaningful rights for our fellow citizens in the LGBTQIA community More than two years after its constitution the Committee has met only twice Its last meeting took place over two years ago and it has yet to produce a single recommendation or reportThe interim measures cited by the Government cannot substitute for meaningful legal reform Advisories do not create rights They do not guarantee equal access to housing employment healthcare inheritance joint financial benefits nextofkin recognition medical decisionmaking or public services If the Government believes these questions should await the Committees recommendations it owes the community an explanation for why the Committee itself has remained virtually inactive for over two years he saidOne is compelled to ask Was the Committee constituted merely to satisfy the Court with no genuine intention of carrying its mandate forward The Governments own reply regrettably points in that direction asks TharoorCongress MP Tharoor a senior member of the Lok Sabha has been representing the state capital city constituency uninterrupted starting from 2009 and was a Union Minister too in the Dr Manmohan Singh CabinetIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/shashi-tharoor-questions-delay-in-lgbtqia-panels-work-695765.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-clarifies-media-reporting-of-court-proceedings-unaffected-restricts-use-of-courtroom-audio-video-695774.html New Delhi Aug 5 IANS The Supreme Court has clarified that its recent interim order regulating the use of audio and video recordings of court proceedings does not impose a blanket prohibition on reportage by recognised news organisations while reiterating that such outlets cannot use audio or video clips of judicial proceedings in their coveragenbspnbspA Bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana passed the clarification after observing that some confusion persists regarding paragraph 11 of its July 24 interim order passed in a petition seeking implementation of a uniform framework for live streaming and recording of court proceedings across the countryClarifying the scope of its earlier directions the CJIled Bench said The said paragraph makes it clear that the order is not to be construed as imposing a blanket prohibition on the reporting of court proceedings by recognised news outletsSuch outlets may therefore continue to report on the proceedings and inform the general public of legal developments and judicial pronouncements save that audio or video clips of the court proceedings shall not be utilised in the course of such reportage it addedIIn sum while news outlets may continue to report on the court proceedings they shall nonetheless remain bound by the restrictions set out in paragraph 10Accordingly the top court said that paragraph 11 of its July 24 order stands clarified to that extentThe CJI Surya Kantled Bench also granted four weeks time to the respondents to file their counter affidavits and posted the matter for further hearing on September 18Earlier on July 24 the Supreme Court had directed that audio and video recordings of judicial proceedings cannot be extracted disseminated monetised posted reposted uploaded transmitted modified stored or hosted on social media or any other digital platform without prior permission of the Secretary General of the apex court or the Registrar Generals of the respective High CourtsThe interim direction was passed while issuing notice on the writ petition and impleading all High Courts along with major social media intermediaries and technology platforms as parties to the proceedingsThe apex court had also directed the Union government to place before it a proposal formulated through the nodal Ministries to give effect to the reliefs sought in the petition while asking all High Courts to submit status reports on the adoption of the Model Rules for live streaming and recording of court proceedings including the feasibility of continuous and uninterrupted live streamingnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-clarifies-media-reporting-of-court-proceedings-unaffected-restricts-use-of-courtroom-audio-video-695774.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/no-proposal-to-prematurely-end-fcnr-b-incentive-scheme-rbi-governor-695776.html Mumbai Aug 5 IANS RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said on Wednesday there is no proposal to prematurely close the Foreign Currency NonResident Bank or FCNR B deposit incentive schemenbspThe RBI Governor was responding to a question at a press conference here after the announcement of the monetary policy review earlier in the daynbspThe scheme has driven robust capital inflows into the country enabled Indian banks to mobilise 367 billion through FCNR deposits as of July 31 2026 which has helped to steady the rupee compared to the US dollar at a time when it had begun to slide amid rising oil prices in the global marketDriven by these massive FCNR inflows Indias headline foreign exchange reserves are expected to cross the 700 billion milestone in the coming weeksThe concessional zerocost swap facility offered by the RBI remains fully operational and is scheduled to run through its original deadline of September 30 2026Even before these measures came in we had a very strong and comfortable external position This further fortifies our external position the RBI Governor saidMalhotra further stated that the RBIs policy has always been to allow markets to determine the rupees price level within the band and that the central bank does not pursue a specific exchangerate levelWe only intervene in case there is an excessive volatility or there are speculative pressures that are getting built in he explainedThe RBI will endeavour to ensure the rupees trajectory remains orderly without disruptive movements or the buildup of selffulfilling expectations around the exchange rate he further statedMajor commercial banks like State Bank of India SBI and ICICI Bank have collectively captured over half of all inflows generated under the FCNR B special dollarmobilisation driveThe RBI temporarily eased interest rate curbs on nonresident deposits to enable banks to offer higher returns on fresh FCNR B and NRE deposits with the aim of attracting more overseas funds to prop up the countrys foreign exchange reserves and strengthen the rupeenbspUnder the relaxed rules that have been put in place till September 30 2026 the RBI has withdrawn the interest rate ceiling on fresh Foreign Currency NonResident Bank or FCNRB deposits with maturities of more than three years and up to five years It has also removed restrictions on interest rates offered on fresh NonResident External NRE deposits of three years and aboveThe move gives banks more freedom to offer higher interest rates to nonresident Indians in order to mobilise more foreigncurrency and rupee deposits from overseas investors and saversBefore the new rules were rolled out banks were required to ensure that interest rates on NRE deposits did not exceed those offered on comparable domestic rupee term deposits FCNR B deposits of three to five years were subject to an interest rate ceiling linked to the applicable overnight alternative reference rate or swap rate plus 350 basis pointsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/no-proposal-to-prematurely-end-fcnr-b-incentive-scheme-rbi-governor-695776.html Wed, 05 Aug 2026 15:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nda-mangal-milan-meet-underway-discussions-likely-on-final-leg-of-monsoon-session-695486.html New Delhi Aug 4 The NDA Parliamentary Partys Mangal Milan meeting is underway at the Parliament Library Building PLB The discussion is likely to chalk out the ruling alliances floor strategy for the remaining 10 days of the Monsoon Session All the members of the ruling NDA arrived at the GMC Balayogi Auditorium for the meeting The Nationalist Citizens Party of India NCPI MPs who were earlier with the Trinamool Congress also attended the meeting for the second time Prime Minister Narendra Modi Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Home Minister Amit Shah BJP National President Nitin Nabin Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar along with other NDA MPs are expected to attend the meetingThe meeting comes as the Monsoon Session of Parliament enters its last leg The NDAled Centre prepares to introduce several pending Bills for consideration and passage even as disruptions from the Opposition are expected to continue over a range of contentious issuesThe Monsoon Session has witnessed repeated protests and interruptions over the past several days as Opposition parties raise issues including examination paper leaks police action against protesters during the Jantar Mantar demonstration and the Ram Mandir donation theft case With both the government and the Opposition expected to remain firm on their respective positions the third week of the session is likely to witness another round of intense political exchanges alongside efforts to push forward the Centres legislative agendaThe Mangal Milan meeting is virtually the rebranded weekly NDA parliamentary party strategy session held to foster constructive debate and seamless alliance alignmentApart from facilitating daily floor management and crossparty consensus during Parliament sessions the Mangal Milan meeting also serves as a medium to promote coordination with NDA constituentsThe meeting promotes the participation of NDA MPs in debates and the distribution of speaking roles among key allies including the Shiv Sena LJP TDP JDU and other regional partiesThe previous Mangal Milan held on July 28 marked the debut of NCPI MPs Kakoli Ghosh Shatabdi Roy and Saayoni Ghosh who were earlier with the Trinamool Congress at the meeting along with other NDA constituentsMany of the NCPI MPs who attended the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting Mangal Milan for the first time had praised the organised system of the ruling alliance IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nda-mangal-milan-meet-underway-discussions-likely-on-final-leg-of-monsoon-session-695486.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/arrested-jem-suspect-lured-aspiring-models-for-honey-trapping-racket-695487.html Kolkata Aug 4 Hamim Mondal the suspected JaishâeâMohammed JeM associate who was arrested last week from Burdwan in West Burdwan district used to target new and upcoming models for honeytrapping politically and socially influential persons in West Bengal At the same time attractive female social media influencers who are regular in posting reels on social media were also his target the investigating officers have learnt after interrogating HamimIn fact Arpita Sarkar his female aide who was arrested last week in Sahibganj in neighbouring Jharkhand was a social media influencer who frequently posted reels which became Mondals first point of contactThis assignment for roping in attractive young women as per his confessions during interrogation was given to him by Shahzad Bhatti Network SBN a Pakistanbased terroristcriminal group sources saidAccording to sources Mondalâs role was limited to the initial stage of establishing contact between his targets and the SBN handlers based out of Pakistan Thereafter the SBN handlers used to contact the target independently bypassing Mondal which happened in the case of Arpita SarkarNow the investigating officials of the Special Task Force STF of West Bengal Police are trying to track the identities of other young and attractive women who had been trapped by Mondal apart from Arpita Sarkar The STF sleuths have also arrested Aditya Singh the second aide of the suspected JeM associateThe investigating officials are also trying to locate those who have become victims of a honey trap but remained silent for fear of losing social prestigeThe National Investigation Agency NIA on Monday interrogated Mondal and Sarkar and is likely to interrogate Aditya Singh todaySources said if necessary all three might be interrogated together by the NIA to avoid contradictions in their statementsThe STF officials following interrogation of Mondal and Sarkar have learnt that SBN targeted the family members of at least six current members of the West Bengal cabinet through Arpita Besides the family members of the state cabinet members some other influential persons in the stateâs administrative machinery were also targeted through Sarkar as revealed in the investigation so far IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/arrested-jem-suspect-lured-aspiring-models-for-honey-trapping-racket-695487.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-arrest-neeraj-bawana-gang-member-after-brief-encounter-695490.html New Delhi Aug 4 The Outer North District Police have arrested an alleged active member of the Neeraj BawanaNaveen Bali gang following an encounter on GTK Road to Hiranki Pushta Road officials said on Tuesday The accused identified as Savinder alias Baba alias Pagal was injured during the exchange of fire and has been taken into custodyAccording to a press note issued by the Delhi Police the operation was carried out late on August 3 at around 10 pm by teams of the Special Staff and Alipur Police Station following specific intelligence inputs about the accusedâs movementThe police said Savinder aged 36 was a key associate of the gang and had allegedly been involved in extortion activities targeting businessmen and property dealers in the Alipur and Narela areas Due to fear of retaliation many victims were reportedly reluctant to approach the police officials saidThe police team laid a trap on the route from GTK Road to Hiranki Pushta Road to apprehend the accused As per the police statement when Savinder was intercepted and asked to surrender he allegedly opened fire at the police personnelâThe moment the accused was intercepted and asked to surrender he resorted to violence and fired indiscriminately at the police partyâ the Delhi Police said in its statementDuring the exchange of fire SubInspector Vishal narrowly escaped injury after a bullet hit his bulletproof jacket police said The team retaliated in selfdefence following which the accused sustained a gunshot injury to his left leg and was overpowered No police personnel were injured in the incidentThe accused was immediately provided medical assistance and was first taken to Raja Harishchandra Hospital before being shifted to LNJP Hospital Police said he is currently stable and consciousThe police recovered one pistol three live 765mm cartridges three empty 765mm rounds and two empty 9mm rounds from his possessionAccording to the police Savinder has a criminal record involving six FIRs including cases related to murder attempt to murder assault and violations under the Arms Act He was also allegedly involved in threatening businessmen in the areaThe Delhi Police said the arrest has dealt a major setback to the activities of the Neeraj BawanaNaveen Bali gang in Outer North Delhi and is expected to provide relief to the local business communityâDelhi Police remain committed to maintaining law and order and will continue to take strict action against such antisocial elementsâ the statement saidFurther investigation and legal proceedings are underway police added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-arrest-neeraj-bawana-gang-member-after-brief-encounter-695490.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 11:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/up-govt-tables-rs-59-01954-crore-supplementary-budget-amid-opposition-protests-in-assembly-695512.html Lucknow Aug 4 IANS Uttar Pradesh Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna on Tuesday presented a supplementary budget of Rs 5901954 crore in the Assembly during the second day of the Monsoon SessionnbspThe supplementary budget sees significant allocations for the energy industrial development health agriculture and social welfare sectorsnbspThe budget was tabled amid noisy protests by opposition members particularly from the Samajwadi Party SP leading to heated sloganeering between treasury and opposition benchesPresenting the supplementary budget the Minister announced additional financial provisions aimed at boosting infrastructure expansion attracting industrial investment strengthening healthcare services and supporting the agricultural sector across the stateThe supplementary budget earmarks Rs 4722 crore for the energy sector and Rs 1655 crore for the Social Welfare DepartmentnbspAccording to the government the additional expenditure is intended to accelerate development projects and improve public service delivery in key sectorsIn agriculture and allied sectors the Agriculture Department has been allocated Rs 13238 crore under the revenue head and Rs 159 crore under the capital headnbspThe Horticulture and Food Processing Department will receive more than Rs 24480 crore while additional provisions have also been made for the Animal Husbandry Department Dairy Development Fisheries Land Development and Water Resources departmentsThe health sector emerged as one of the major beneficiaries of the supplementary budget Allopathic medical services have been allocated Rs 1100 crore under revenue expenditure and Rs 96 crore under capital expenditurenbspAn additional Rs 70425 crore has been provided for Family Welfare programmes while Rs 6065 crore has been earmarked for Public Health services The government has also allocated funds for the expansion of Ayurvedic and Unani healthcare facilitiesThe government has laid special emphasis on industrial development and infrastructure expansion The Department of Heavy and Medium Industries has been allocated nearly Rs 2090588 crore under the capital head and Rs 13030 crore under the revenue headnbspAdditional provisions have also been made for handloom and textilerelated projects as well as printing and stationery infrastructure worksMeanwhile opposition protests continued throughout the budget presentation SP legislators entered the well of the House and raised slogans against the governmentnbspDuring the exchange SP members shouted Chanda Chor Kahan Milenge BJP Ke Daftar Mein while BJP legislators responded with slogans targeting the oppositionnbspChief Minister Yogi Adityanath was present in the House during the proceedingsSP MLA Atul Pradhan questioned the rationale behind the supplementary budget and demanded details on the utilisation of funds sanctioned in previous budgetsnbspHe argued that merely announcing fresh allocations would not address public concerns unless the government accounted for the implementation of earlier commitmentsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/up-govt-tables-rs-59-01954-crore-supplementary-budget-amid-opposition-protests-in-assembly-695512.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 13:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-has-done-nothing-wrong-shaina-nc-slams-kejriwal-over-march-to-pms-residence-on-e20-issue-695513.html New Delhi Aug 4 IANS Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC on Tuesday criticised Aam Aadmi Party AAP National Convener and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal over his proposed march to Prime Minister Narendra Modis residence against the E20 petrol issue She accused Kejriwal of spreading misinformation and claimed that the government had done nothing wrongThe remarks came after Kejriwal announced that he would lead a march to the Prime Ministers residence to protest against the Centres promotion of E20 petrol However Delhi Police stated that the proposed August 4 procession would not be permitted setting the stage for a fresh political confrontation between the AAP and the CentreSpeaking to IANS Shaina NC said Arvind Kejriwal is merely spreading rumours The government has not done anything wrong There is nothing objectionable in pursuing policies with good intentions Why then is he creating such false narratives and misinformation Perhaps this reflects the extent of his political desperationBJP MP Tarun Chugh said It is unfortunate Making baseless and irrelevant statements without having any knowledge about the issue is inappropriate behaviourReacting to the march Congress MP Imran Masood said He has already announced it But who is going to allow him to proceed No one is going to let him goSamajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad took a more neutral stance saying This is a programme of their own party Political parties organise their activities according to their strategies and this is a part of their political agendaShiv Sena UBT leader Priyanka Chaturvedi supported the AAP leader saying People have been suffering due to E20 for a long time and they are raising their voices against it The government has again ignored this issue We have seen protests at Jantar Mantar earlier as well Today Arvind Kejriwal ji is leading itOn Monday Kejriwal reiterated his decision to march to Prime Minister Modis residence along with 100 supporters to personally submit petitions opposing ethanolblended petrol He alleged that the Centre was aggressively promoting E20 fuel after yielding to pressure from US President Donald Trump to purchase ethanol from the USDelhi Police however clarified that no permission had been granted for the proposed march Officials said security arrangements had been put in place to prevent any unauthorised procession from reaching sensitive areasThe planned protest comes amid AAPs campaign against E20 petrol Kejriwal claimed that an online petition launched by the party against the fuel policy has already gathered more than two lakh signaturesThe former Delhi Chief Minister has repeatedly questioned the governments push for E20 fuel arguing that it could create difficulties for owners of older vehicles that were not designed to run on higher ethanolblended petrol He has demanded that consumers continue to have access to fuel that is compatible with their vehicles and has announced protests over the issueIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-has-done-nothing-wrong-shaina-nc-slams-kejriwal-over-march-to-pms-residence-on-e20-issue-695513.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 13:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nda-to-hold-mangal-milan-today-to-finalise-strategy-for-last-leg-of-monsoon-session-695516.html New Delhi Aug 4 IANS The NDA Parliamentary Party will hold its Mangal Milan meeting on Tuesday at the Parliament Library Building PLB to chalk out the ruling alliances floor strategy for the remaining 10 days of the Monsoon SessionA note circulated among all National Democratic Alliance NDA members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha by the office of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Parliament said All Honble NDA Members of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha are requested to kindly make it convenient to attend the programme and be present at the venue well in timeThe meeting is scheduled to begin at 930 am on Tuesday in the GMC Balayogi Auditorium said the Office Secretary of the BJP in ParliamentPrime Minister Narendra Modi Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi and Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh along with other NDA MPs are expected to attend the meetingThe Mangal Milan meeting is virtually the rebranded weekly NDA parliamentary party strategy session held to foster constructive debate and seamless alliance alignmentApart from facilitating daily floor management and crossparty consensus during Parliament sessions the Mangal Milan meeting also serves as a medium to promote coordination with NDA constituentsThe meeting promotes the participation of NDA MPs in debates and the distribution of speaking roles among key allies including the Shiv Sena LJP TDP JDU and other regional partiesThe previous Mangal Milan held on July 28 marked the debut of NCPI MPs Kakoli Ghosh Shatabdi Roy and Saayoni Ghosh who were earlier with the Trinamool Congress at the meeting along with other NDA constituentsMany of the Nationalist Citizens Party of India NCPI MPs who attended the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting Mangal Milan for the first time had praised the organised system of the ruling allianceSpeaking to IANS after the meeting NCPI MP Satabdi Roy had said Today since we attended the meeting for the first time we were provided recognition The system we saw this organised approach we havent seen like this beforeIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nda-to-hold-mangal-milan-today-to-finalise-strategy-for-last-leg-of-monsoon-session-695516.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 13:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rs-adjourned-briefly-amid-uproar-after-kharge-raises-ram-temple-donation-issue-rijiju-demands-apology-695518.html New Delhi Aug 4 IANS Rajya Sabha was adjourned briefly amid chaos and protests from both the NDA and Opposition MPs who accused each other of disrespecting Lord Ram with the treasury benches demanding an apologynbspNDA members erupted in protest in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday after Congress president and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge raised the alleged Ram Temple donation theft issue during Zero Hour triggering a major ruckus that disrupted proceedingsOpposition MPs began sloganeering over the matter involving the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra TrustChairman CP Radhakrishnan intervened stating that he would call the Leader of Opposition but members must also listen to the other side as that was the tradition of the HouseHe then permitted Kharge to speak Kharge raised questions about the Ram Janmabhoomi Trust and the alleged theft of donationsParliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju responded that Opposition members do not believe in Lord Ram and were seeking to misuse the parliamentary forum by repeatedly raising the same Ram Temple issue both inside and outside the HouseHe noted that other members had important matters to discuss and described the approach as unfairHe alleged that the Congress party and Samajwadi Party must apologise to the nation for dishonouring Lord RamThis exchange sparked chaos Opposition members moved towards the well of the House Treasury benches reacted sharply in response and the din made it impossible to hear anything clearlyThe Chairman asked the Parliamentary Affairs Minister to respond Amid the noise Rijiju said the Opposition members must apologise to the country before raising the same issue again and misusing the valuable time of the HouseThe pandemonium continued drowning out his voice Kharge rose once more and reiterated his allegations The Chairman again called upon Rijiju to replyAmid the continuing uproar the minister stated that if Congress and Samajwadi Party wished to raise the Ram Temple issue they must first apologise to the countrySeeing no letup in the chaos the Chairman adjourned the proceedings till noonThe controversy surrounding alleged irregularities in the handling of devotees offerings at the Ayodhya Ram Temple has been in the news since early June 2026 The Opposition has demanded an independent or courtmonitored probe into the Trusts financial affairsEarlier when the House assembled at 11 am papers relating to various ministries were laid on the Table reports of the Public Accounts Committee were presented and a motion was moved for elections to the institute bodies of several All India Institutes of Medical SciencesAnupriya Patel laid papers for the Ministry of Ayush Pankaj Chaudhary for the Ministry of Finance Anupriya Patel for the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers BL Verma for the Ministry of Consumer Affairs Food and Public Distribution Shantanu Thakur for the Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways and Harsh Malhotra for the Ministry of Corporate AffairsSudhanshu Trivedi and Akhilesh Prasad Singh laid on the Table a copy each in English and Hindi of two reports of the Public Accounts Committee for 202627The first was the 52nd report on the construction of the DimapurKohima new line project of the Northeast Frontier Railway under the Ministry of RailwaysThe second was the 53rd report on the action taken by the government on the observations and recommendations contained in the committees 79th report of the seventeenth Lok Sabha regarding Improper Exemption of IGST on import of pharmaceutical products pertaining to the Ministry of Finance Department of RevenueAA Rahim and Jogen Mohan laid a report of the Departmentrelated Parliamentary Standing Committee on Housing and Urban Affairs for 202526 which reviewed sewerage and septage coverage in cities with special reference to interventions under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation AMRUT and AMRUT 20 and pertained to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Department of Urban DevelopmentPrataprao Jadhav made a statement on the status of implementation of the recommendations and observations contained in the 170th Report of the Departmentrelated Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare regarding the Action Taken by the government on the recommendations and observations in its 163rd Report on Demands for Grants for 202526 under Demand No 46 of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Department of Health and Family WelfareNimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya made statements on the status of implementation of the recommendations and observations contained in the 38th Report of the Seventeenth Lok Sabha of the Departmentrelated Parliamentary Standing Committee on Consumer Affairs Food and Public Distribution concerning the functioning of the Warehousing Development and Regulatory Authority as well as those in the 14th Report of the Eighteenth Lok Sabha of the same Committee on Demands for Grants for 202627 both pertaining to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs Food and Public Distribution Department of Food and Public DistributionAnupriya Patel moved a motion on behalf of Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda seeking the election of members to the institute bodies of various AIIMS The motion proposed that the House elect six Members one each for the All India Institute of Medical Sciences at Awantipora Bathinda Bhopal Guwahati Vijaypur and Madurai in accordance with the relevant provisions of the AllIndia Institutes of Medical Sciences Act 1956 as amended in 2012It further sought the election of one Member to AIIMS Jodhpur to fill the vacancy arising from the retirement of Rajendra Gehlot from the Rajya Sabha on June 22 That in pursuance of Section 4g read with Section 61 of the AllIndia Institutes of Medical Sciences Act 1956 as amended by the AllIndia Institutes of Medical Sciences Amendment Act 2012 this House do proceed to elect in such a manner as directed by the Chairman six members from amongst the members of the House to be members of the Institute bodies ie one each in the All India Institute of Medical Sciences AIIMS at Awantipora Bathinda Bhopal Guwahati Vijaypur and Madurai and that in pursuance of Section 4g read with Section 63 of the AIIMS Act 1956 as amended by the AIIMS Amendment Act 2012 this House do proceed to elect in such a manner as directed by the Chairman one member from amongst the members of the House to be a member of the AIIMS Jodhpur in the vacancy caused due to the retirement of Rajendra Gehlot from the membership of Rajya Sabha on 22nd June 2026 subject to the provisions of the Act the motion saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rs-adjourned-briefly-amid-uproar-after-kharge-raises-ram-temple-donation-issue-rijiju-demands-apology-695518.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 14:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/prashant-kishor-has-pulled-off-masterstroke-leaders-on-jan-suraaj-founders-bankipur-win-695519.html New Delhi Aug 4 IANS The victory of Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor in the Bankipur Assembly byelection has triggered a wave of reactions from political leaders with Bihar Minister Ramkripal Yadav describing the result as a masterstrokenbspReacting to the result Ramkripal Yadav praised Kishors campaign strategy but also cautioned him to deliver on his promisesPrashant Kishor ji has really pulled off a masterstroke he played the game brilliantly He has instilled great hope in the people of Bankipur Yadav saidThe Bihar minister added I have full faith that you Prashant Kishor ji follow through on what you say However your statements have kept changing I heard with my own ears you saying that you would bring about development here just like in Bengaluru Now you say that you wont exactly turn this into BengaluruMeanwhile Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad linked the bypoll outcome to a larger political shift and claimed that the BJPs electoral setbacks would continueThese byelection results are not surprising This was expected The same trend will continue in the upcoming byelections The results are a clear indication that the BJPs time is coming to an end he saidPrasad further claimed that the BJPs decline had started with the Ayodhya election result and predicted a change of government in Uttar Pradesh in 2027 under Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh YadavIn 2027 the PDA government will be formed under the leadership of Akhilesh Yadav Only then will the state move towards progress he saidJDU National General Secretary Shyam Rajak said the party must conduct a detailed review after losing the seat and identify shortcomings at the grassroots levelIf the people were misled then somewhere we must also accept our own shortcomings All these issues need a thorough review Rajak saidHe added A formal meeting or gathering alone is not enough to assess the situation We need to conduct a detailed grassrootslevel review by engaging with party workers Only then will the real picture emerge Based on those findings we will begin working again to regain the seat we have lostPrashant Kishor emerged victorious in the Bankipur bypoll marking the first electoral win for the Jan Suraaj Party which is still in the early stages of its political journey After 31 rounds of counting Kishor secured 63203 votes and defeated BJP candidate Neeraj Kumar Sinha who received 44250 votes RJD candidate Rekha Gupta finished third with 14085 votes Kishor won the seat by a margin of 18953 votesThe Bankipur result has provided a major boost to Prashant Kishors political ambitions giving the Jan Suraaj Party its first electoral success and strengthening its claim as a new force in Bihar politicsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/prashant-kishor-has-pulled-off-masterstroke-leaders-on-jan-suraaj-founders-bankipur-win-695519.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 14:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-approves-appropriation-bill-amid-opposition-din-695533.html New Delhi Aug 4 IANS The Appropriation No 3 Bill 2026 which seeks to authorise expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India towards excess spending incurred during the financial year ended on March 31 2023 was passed in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday by a voice vote amid protests from the OppositionnbspAmid the chaos Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Taxation and Other Laws Amendment Bill in the House for considerationThe Bill seeks to amend the Payment and Settlement Systems Act 2007 the Incometax Act 2025 and the Finance Act 2026The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Tuesday amid persistent protests and an ongoing deadlock over oppositionled issues Proceedings were disrupted multiple times due to opposition sloganeering and protests before the Lower House was adjourned It will reconvene on Wednesday at 11 amThere were multiple adjournments in both the Houses of Parliament amid noisy protests by the Opposition over various issues on Tuesday Opposition MPs staged protests at the Parliament premises over multiple issues including the embezzlement of Ram Mandir donations police action on protesters during the Parliament March on July 20 in the national capital and the Cauvery water disputeA day earlier on Monday the Lok Sabha passed a Bill to increase the sanctioned strength of judges in the Supreme Court without any discussion amid persistent protests by Opposition membersMeanwhile the BJP on Tuesday accused the opposition of repeatedly disrupting Parliament proceedings and preventing the House from functioning during the ongoing Monsoon SessionThe remarks came amid continued disruptions in the Monsoon Session over the NEET paper leak controversy and the police action against protesters at Jantar Mantar on July 20 Opposition parties have been demanding a response from the Union Home Minister over the alleged firing on the protestersThe BJP accused the Congress and its allies of deliberately obstructing parliamentary business depriving elected representatives of the opportunity to raise public issues and discuss important legislationIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-approves-appropriation-bill-amid-opposition-din-695533.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 15:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/expert-panel-to-audit-neet-pg-admission-system-centre-informs-sc-695537.html New Delhi Aug 4 IANS The Centre on Tuesday informed the Supreme Court that it has constituted an expert committee headed by the Director General of Health Services DGHS to examine issues arising out of the challenge to the reduction of qualifying cutoff percentiles for the NEETPG 202526 examinationnbspnbspA bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe was hearing a public interest litigation PIL challenging the decision to drastically lower the qualifying cutoff percentiles for postgraduate medical admissionsAppearing for the Union government Additional Solicitor General ASG Aishwarya Bhati submitted that the expert committee has been constituted in compliance with the apex courts earlier directions and sought eight weeks time to complete the exercise and submit its reportWe have set up a committee as per your lordships directions We will do the exercise and submit a report ASG Bhati told the apex courtWhen the Justice Narasimhaled Bench sought details regarding the composition of the committee the ASG said that the DGHS would chair the panel which comprises 11 other membersYour Lordships had directed that an internal audit be done and solutions be found out she addedTaking on record the office order dated July 23 issued by the Directorate General of Health Services DGHS the apex court recorded that it relates to the constitution of an expert committeeAsking how much time would be required for the exercise the Justice Narasimhaled Bench was informed that the committee would need eight weeks to submit its reportRecording the submission the Supreme Court directed the committee to invite suggestions from various stakeholders and after detailed consideration submit its report within eight weeksThe committee will call for suggestions from various stakeholders and after detailed consideration submit a report within eight weeks the top court said while posting the matter for further hearing after eight weeksAs per the office order issued by the DGHS the expert committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of DGHS Dr Loveneesh G Krishna It also comprises senior officials from the Directorate General of Health Services the National Board of Examinations NBE representatives of the National Medical Commission NMC the National Testing Agency NTA the Union Health Ministry and the National Informatics Centre NICThe committee has been tasked with formulating a mechanism for conducting a comprehensive audit of the existing admission system through the NEET examination involving various stakeholders identifying lacunae and gaps in the existing system and suggesting practical and implementable solutionsThe matter arises out of a PIL challenging the decision to drastically reduce the qualifying cutoff percentiles for NEETPG 202526The plea filed by advocate Satyam Singh Rajput contends that the decision to lower qualifying standards to abnormally low zero or even negative percentiles after declaration of results and completion of two rounds of counselling is arbitrary and unconstitutional violating Articles 14 and 21 of the ConstitutionAccording to the petition permitting candidates with such scores to enter postgraduate medical training compromises patient safety public health and the integrity of medical education It further argued that the rules of the game cannot be altered after the selection process has commencedDefending the decision the Union government has said that the cutoff reduction was taken after detailed deliberations by expert bodies in view of a large number of vacant postgraduate seats and to ensure optimal utilisation of healthcare infrastructureIn its affidavit the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that nearly 20000 postgraduate medical seats were likely to remain vacant nationwide prompting a review of the qualifying cutoff It added that the decision rendered more than one lakh additional candidates eligible for the third round of counselling without altering inter se merit and pointed out that a similar reduction to zero percentile had also been undertaken in 2023The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences NBEMS in a separate affidavit clarified that it had no role in the decision to reduce the qualifying percentile and said the revised cutoff made 95913 additional candidates eligible for counsellingIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/expert-panel-to-audit-neet-pg-admission-system-centre-informs-sc-695537.html Tue, 04 Aug 2026 16:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rbis-3-day-mpc-meeting-begins-today-all-eyes-on-repo-rate-decision-695357.html Mumbai Aug 3 IANS The Reserve Bank of Indias RBI threeday Monetary Policy Committee MPC meeting led by Governor Sanjay Malhotra begins on Monday with investors and economists closely tracking the central banks assessment of inflation economic growth and the future interest rate trajectory ahead of the policy decision due on August 5nbspThe policy announcement is expected to provide cues on the outlook for interest rates liquidity conditions and the broader economy amid an uncertain global environmentMany analysts expect the sixmember MPC to keep the policy repo rate unchanged at 525 per cent after maintaining the status quo in its June meetingAccording to SBI Research the RBI is likely to leave policy rates unchanged as consumer price inflation is expected to remain above 5 per cent over the next two quarters while domestic economic activity has shown signs of strengtheningThe report said Q1 FY27 GDP growth could exceed 7 per cent higher than earlier estimatesIt further stated that an explicitly dovish message from the central bank appears unlikely in view of oil price volatility pressure on the rupee and caution over external capital flowsHowever the report noted that domestic fundamentals have improved helped by strong capital inflows in July a recovery in foreign exchange buffers better monsoon conditions and nearnormal reservoir levelsAdditionally at its previous policy review in June the RBI had unanimously retained the repo rate at 525 per cent and kept its policy stance neutralnbspThe central bank also revised its FY27 GDP growth forecast to 66 per cent amid geopolitical tensionsMarkets will also closely watch the RBIs commentary on inflation risks growth prospects and global developments for signals on the future course of monetary policyIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rbis-3-day-mpc-meeting-begins-today-all-eyes-on-repo-rate-decision-695357.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 10:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/parliament-set-for-crucial-3rd-week-as-govt-eyes-key-bills-amid-likely-oppn-protests-695358.html New Delhi Aug 3 IANS Parliament is scheduled to resume its proceedings for the third week on Monday as the Centre prepares to introduce several pending Bills for consideration and passage even as disruptions from the Opposition are expected to continue over a range of contentious issuesThe Monsoon Session has witnessed repeated protests and interruptions over the past several days as Opposition parties raise issues including examination paper leaks police action against protesters during the Jantar Mantar demonstration and the Ram Mandir donation theft caseDespite the anticipated disruptions the government has lined up key legislative business in both Houses of ParliamentIn the Lok Sabha Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh is scheduled to introduce The Indian Statistical Institute Bill 2026 while Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to table The Bankers Books Evidence Bill 2026 for consideration by the HouseIn the Rajya Sabha Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi is slated to introduce The Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development Amendment Bill 2026 for consideration and passageThe previous two weeks of the Monsoon Session witnessed repeated adjournments and heated exchanges between the treasury and Opposition benches over multiple political issuesnbspThe Opposition is also expected to continue demanding a statement from Home Minister Shah on police action against the Jantar Mantar protesters including the alleged use of pellet guns against the demonstratorsEven amid the disruptions Parliament successfully cleared two significant legislations the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Amendment Bill 2026 and the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Amendment Bill 2026With both the government and the Opposition expected to remain firm on their respective positions the third week of the session is likely to witness another round of intense political exchanges alongside efforts to push forward the Centres legislative agendaIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/parliament-set-for-crucial-3rd-week-as-govt-eyes-key-bills-amid-likely-oppn-protests-695358.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 10:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-urges-citizens-to-make-shravan-month-symbol-of-cleanliness-water-conservation-695359.html New Delhi Aug 3 IANS Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has called upon the people of the state to dedicate the holy month of Shravan to service cleanliness water conservation environmental protection and social harmony saying the sacred period reflects the ideals of public welfare respect for labour and collective responsibilitynbspIn a letter addressed to the people of Uttar Pradesh the Chief Minister highlighted the spiritual cultural and ecological significance of Shravan linking the worship of Lord Shiva with environmental awareness and sustainable livingAddressing citizens CM Yogi wrote My respected people of the state the month of Shravan is a sacred festival of public welfare respect for labour and collective spirit Nature conveys the message of renewal while the hard work of our farmers begins to bear fruit in the form of lush prosperity In Sanatan culture this renewal of nature through the worship of Lord Shiva guides humanity towards discipline service and social harmonyReferring to the legend of Samudra Manthan he said Lord Shivas act of consuming the deadly poison symbolises the highest sacrifice for protecting creationDuring the churning of the ocean Lord Shivas acceptance of the deadly poison symbolised the supreme sacrifice made for the protection of creation The tradition of offering water to Lord Shiva is an expression of that spirit of sacrifice gratitude and public welfare Lord Mahadev himself is the deity of ecological consciousness The Ganga flowing through his matted locks the moon adorning his forehead the serpent around his neck Nandi and his attendants all remind us of the message of harmonious coexistence with nature he wroteThe Chief Minister also described Shravan as a season that brings renewed energy across villages and cities alikeHe wrote that after the scorching heat of the summer months the gentle monsoon showers transform the landscape with greenery rivers flow in their full splendour and peacocks dance in celebration of nature He also highlighted the tradition of community meals after paddy transplantation in villages and the large gatherings at Shiva temples saying these strengthen the values of service cleanliness and social participationStressing the need to conserve water CM Yogi said Among the five natural elements water is regarded as the very foundation of life Our commitment to water conservation is reflected in the development of nearly 20000 Amrit Sarovars across the state At a time when climate change and excessive exploitation of natural resources have made water conservation a global necessity public participation has become indispensableHe also cited an initiative by a residential society in Lucknow that is recharging groundwater by channeling nearly 50000 litres of water generated daily from RO systems and air conditioners into a rainwater harvesting system describing it as an inspiring example of giving back to natureConcluding his message the Chief Minister urged people to adopt sustainable practices during the holy monthI especially urge all of you to resolve to make the month of Shravan a month of service cleanliness water conservation environmental protection and social participation Respect every drop of water and protect every plant This is the true message of Shravan and the foundation of a prosperous secure and developed Uttar Pradesh he wroteThe letter ended with the message Jal hi jeevan hai Water is LifeIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-urges-citizens-to-make-shravan-month-symbol-of-cleanliness-water-conservation-695359.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 10:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-refuses-to-revisit-verdict-declining-fir-against-anurag-thakur-over-goli-maro-remark-695360.html New Delhi Aug 3 IANS The Supreme Court has dismissed a review petition filed by CPIM leader Brinda Karat seeking reconsideration of its April 29 judgment which had declined to interfere with the refusal to direct registration of an FIR against BJP MP Anurag Thakur over his alleged goli maro speech during the antiCAA protests in 2020nbspA Bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta rejected Karats plea saying that it found no ground to revisit the earlier verdictWe have gone through the review petition as well as the grounds in support thereof We do not find any error much less apparent in the order impugned warranting its reconsideration the apex court said in its order passed on July 29It also rejected an application seeking listing of the review petition for an oral hearing in open court Application for listing the present review petition in open court is rejected the Justice Nathled Bench ordered adding that the review petition stood dismissed and all pending applications if any also stood disposed ofIn its April 29 judgment the Supreme Court partly allowed Karats appeal by disagreeing with the legal reasoning adopted by the Delhi High Court and the trial court that prior sanction under the Code of Criminal Procedure CrPC was necessary before directing registration of an FIR under Section 1563 CrPCThe apex court had clarified that prior sanction is required only at the stage of taking cognisance by the court and not for registration of an FIR or investigationIt had held that an order passed by a judicial magistrate under Section 1563 CrPC directing investigation is a precognisance exercise and does not amount to taking cognisance of an offenceThe Justice Nathled Bench had observed that making FIR registration contingent on prior sanction would be contrary to the statutory scheme governing criminal investigationsHowever despite disapproving the reasoning of the courts below on the issue of prior sanction the Supreme Court had upheld the ultimate conclusion refusing registration of an FIR after independently examining the material on recordThe April 29 judgment had said that upon a careful consideration of the speeches the status report filed before the trial court and the reasons recorded by the courts below no cognizable offence is made outThe case arose from Karats plea seeking registration of an FIR against Anurag Thakur and then BJP MP Pravesh Verma over their alleged hate speeches made during the antiCAA protests in January 2020After the police declined to act on her complaint she approached the trial court under Section 1563 CrPC which refused to direct registration of an FIR on the ground that prior sanction was requiredThe Delhi High Court had affirmed that view prompting Karat to move the Supreme CourtWhile the apex court corrected the legal position on the requirement of prior sanction in its April verdict it ultimately declined to order registration of an FIR holding that the speeches in question did not disclose the commission of any cognisable offenceIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-refuses-to-revisit-verdict-declining-fir-against-anurag-thakur-over-goli-maro-remark-695360.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 11:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/uzbekistan-foreign-minister-bakhtiyor-saidov-arrives-in-new-delhi-for-official-visit-695361.html New Delhi July 3 IANS Uzbekistans Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakhtiyor Saidov arrived in New Delhi on Monday for an official visit to further strengthen bilateral relations between India and UzbekistannbspnbspWelcoming his arrival Ministry of External Affairs MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said A very warm welcome to Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov FMSaidov of Uzbekistan on his arrival in New Delhi for an official visit in a post on XSaidov is visiting India till August 5 at the invitation of the Indian government During his visit the Uzbek Foreign Minister is scheduled to call on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hold discussions with External Affairs Minister S JaishankarnbspHe will also participate in a business forum in New Delhi highlighting opportunities for expanding economic and commercial cooperation between the two countriesThe visit comes at a time when India and Uzbekistan are seeking to deepen their strategic partnership across multiple sectors including trade investment technology energy education and connectivity Ahead of the visit External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Saidov on July 20 during which both leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperationFollowing the conversation EAM Jaishankar said that the discussions focused on deepening our bilateral ties including in trade investment and other areas Saidov also described the talks as substantive and said both sides agreed to continue regular and trustbased dialogue between their foreign ministriesIndia and Uzbekistan have maintained close diplomatic engagement under their strategic partnership framework In May the two countries held the 17th round of Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi where officials reviewed the progress of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interestDuring the consultations both sides focused on expanding cooperation in areas such as trade and investment tourism digital technology innovation energy and education The two countries also discussed strengthening coordination in international forums and advancing future highlevel engagementsSaidovs visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to IndiaUzbekistan relations particularly in enhancing economic partnerships and exploring new areas of cooperation between the two strategic partners in Central AsiaIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/uzbekistan-foreign-minister-bakhtiyor-saidov-arrives-in-new-delhi-for-official-visit-695361.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 11:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/inside-isis-pan-india-influencer-network-to-spread-falsehoods-shape-narratives-post-op-sindoor-695365.html New Delhi Aug 3 IANS Pakistan has been making a major push to build a massive influencer network in India The push to build this panIndia network continues despite the Indian agencies busting many such modules in recent months The decision to ramp up these networks came in the aftermath of Operation SindoornbspThis operation carried out to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack on India in which 26 people were killed exposed Pakistan badly as the Indian armed forces took down terror infrastructure both in Pakistan and PakistanoccupiedKashmir PoKAn Intelligence Bureau official said that Pakistan has realised that it is no match for the Indian armed forcesTo overcome this it decided to build a massive network comprising influencers in IndiaThe ISI had used Shehzad Bhatti a former influencer to build multiple terror modules in IndiaThe plan was a big success and the ISI realised that influencers have better command over the social media and they would be able to scout for targets with much ease the official saidAn official said that the ISIs plan is not just to use these influencers to recruit people into joining terror groups These influencers are also meant to spread falsehood about the Indian government and the armed forcesPakistan wants to set up a network of influencers to set the narrative that it wants to in IndiaAnother official said that these influencers have been told to make a soft push instead of going rabid The soft push does not get scrutinised by Indian agencies easilyThe idea is to create as much content as possible and then influence the people of the country into believing that everything around them is wrongFor a common man these videos would appear to be normal as they raise existing issues However the common man does not realise that these may seem normal but in reality the idea is to amplify an issue to the highest levelsThis is where the brainwashing of the common man takes place and they are led into believing that everything in the country is wrongIn the long run these influencers would hope that the public comes out in the open and protests or indulges in violence against the state the official pointed outOfficials say that for the Indian agencies the social media and other video platforms have become the biggest headache There are millions of people on these platforms and hence it is very difficult to trackThe agencies will have to keep a watch on these ISIbacked channelsThe Intelligence agencies and cyber crime officials will have to follow the pattern in which the content is being generated before they can actually take action officials also point outIn the ongoing probe by the Special Task Force STF in Bengal the agencies found that an influencer network was being built up by two persons Their aim however was not just to influence the people but to also set up a major espionage networkThe idea of having such a module was to gather information about sensitive locations They were also seeking information regarding the routes taken by high profile persons such as ministersHowever this network largely wanted information on the Chief Minister of Bengal Suvendu Adhikari The STF said the module was more keen on the routes of the CM especially the unguarded onesThe idea apparently was to assassinate Adhikari by getting this information the STF found Officials say that many such modules have been busted since Operation Sindoor However the ISI had no plans at stopping at thatIt realises the importance of having influencers in their pocket These are the persons who can set narratives and also spread falsehoods to incite the people against the Indian state the official also pointed outIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/inside-isis-pan-india-influencer-network-to-spread-falsehoods-shape-narratives-post-op-sindoor-695365.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 12:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/hc-directs-punjab-govt-to-clear-da-dues-within-15-days-restrains-it-from-undertaking-large-scale-ad-campaign-695398.html Chandigarh Aug 3 IANS In a setback to the AAP government the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday directed the government to clear dearness allowance DA dues of government employees and pensioners within 15 daysnbspnbspAlso it restrained the state from undertaking a largescale advertisement campaign until the dues are paidThe order to release DA will entail a liability of an estimated Rs 14191 croreA Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra and Justice Rohit Kapoor observed that financial constraints cannot be cited as a ground to deny employees and pensioners their accrued service benefitsTill all such dues are cleared the state of Punjab shall not resort to any unproductive expenditures such as largescale advertising campaigns in print or social media as these expenses cannot justify the denial of dues admissible to state employees the Bench observedThe Bench said the payment be done within a fortnight and in case of default the unpaid amounts shall carry simple interest of six per cent per annumThe court said a compliance report be filed before the end of this monthState counsel Maninderjit Singh Bedi had submitted that the single judges direction for release of pending DA was corum nonjudiceThe High Court on July 22 reserved its order on the pleas from the state government and Punjab State Power Corporation Limited PSPCL filed against the singlejudge order that directed the release of DA to employees and pensioners by June 30The single judge on April 8 struck down the states Liquidation Plan of February 18 2025 with staggered payment of pension arrears based on age terming it arbitrary and violative of Article 14 of the ConstitutionnbspThe single judge had directed the state and PSPCL to release all uptodate pending instalments of DA to all its employees and pensioners at the same rates as have been paid to the members of the All India Services serving within PunjabThe employees groups have stated that the government had formally accepted the payment of DA on the Central government pattern but was delaying payments citing financial constraintsKeeping in view the financial health of the state the state government with approval of the state cabinet had issued a systematic liquidation plan on February 18 2025 The total financial implication for payment of arrears of revised pay pension family pensions including DADR and leave encashment is around Rs 14191 crore the state had informed the High Court in its affidavitIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/hc-directs-punjab-govt-to-clear-da-dues-within-15-days-restrains-it-from-undertaking-large-scale-ad-campaign-695398.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 13:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rapid-progress-in-power-restoration-in-flood-hit-areas-assam-cm-695401.html Guwahati Aug 3 IANS Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said that power restoration work in floodhit Sivasagar district is progressing steadily with electricity supply being restored to a large number of consumers over the past 24 hoursnbspSharing an update on social media the Chief Minister said power department teams have safely reconnected several transformers significantly reducing the number of affected consumers in the districtEncouraging progress on power restoration Over the last 24 hours our teams have safely reconnected many more transformers bringing down the number of affected consumers in Sivasagar by nearly 58 per cent We are steadily moving towards full normalisation of the power situation Sarma saidAccording to the latest flood impact and power supply status released by the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited APDCL at 8 am on Sunday only 2274 consumers in Sivasagar district remain affected a sharp decline following restoration effortsThe report showed that all 33 kV transmission lines and 3311 kV substations in the district are fully operational with no faults reported There are also no disruptions in the 11 kV feeder network except for one feeder that remains disconnected due to an alternate source arrangementHowever 61 distribution transformers DTRs are yet to be reconnected mainly in floodaffected pockets resulting in power disruptions for a limited number of consumersAmong the worstafcected areas SesaD2 Sivasagar ESDII has 920 consumers without electricity followed by Gaurisagar with 799 consumers and Sivasagar ESDI with 375 consumersNazira has 180 affected consumers while power supply has been fully restored in Amguri and Demow subdivisionsThe restoration drive follows widespread disruptions caused by the recent floods that inundated several parts of Upper Assam damaging electrical infrastructure and affecting thousands of householdsThe state government and APDCL have intensified restoration efforts in the floodhit districts deploying field teams to repair damaged infrastructure and reconnect electricity supplyOfficials said work is continuing in the remaining affected areas to ensure complete normalisation of power services at the earliestIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rapid-progress-in-power-restoration-in-flood-hit-areas-assam-cm-695401.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 13:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-introduces-bankers-books-evidence-indian-statistical-institute-bills-in-lok-sabha-695403.html New Delhi Aug 3 IANS Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced Bankers Books Evidence Bill 2026 in Lok Sabha on Monday while the Indian Statistical Institute Bill 2026 was tabled by the Union Minister of State Independent Charge of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Rao Inderjit SinghnbspThe government is replacing a colonialera law with one that seeks to preserve access to banking evidence while protecting banks from unnecessary legal proceedings shifting the emphasis to bettertargeted judicial oversight rather than unrestricted access to banking recordsWith the Bankers Books Evidence Bill 2026 the government seeks to replace the Bankers Books Evidence Act 1891 which has governed the production of banking records in courts for over 125 yearsThe proposed legislation aims to provide for law relating to evidence with respect to bankers books and to align it with contemporary digital banking practicesThe Indian Statistical Institute Bill 2026 seeks the institutes incorporation as a body corporate to strengthen its governance promote academic excellence and research and allow it to serve the emerging needs in the fieldThe Bill states that the President of India will be the Visitor of the institute and provisions for a Board of Governors that will be its principal policy executive body The board will be headed by the chairperson who will be an eminent person from the field of academia industry education public policy and statistical sciencesThe agenda also includes a statement by Finance Minister Sitharaman showing Demands for Excess Grants for 202223Meanwhile the Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned after disruptions by Opposition members over the police action against students protesting NEET paper leak and the alleged theft of Ram Temple donations prevented the House from taking up the Question HourThe Parliament resumed its proceedings for the third week as the Centre prepares to introduce several pending Bills for consideration and passage even as disruptions from the Opposition are expected to continue over a range of contentious issuesThe Monsoon Session has witnessed repeated protests and interruptions over the past several days as Opposition parties raise issues including examination paper leaks police action against protesters during the Jantar Mantar demonstration and the Ram Mandir donation theft caseIn the Rajya Sabha Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi is slated to introduce the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Development Amendment Bill 2026 for consideration and passageThe previous two weeks of the Monsoon Session witnessed repeated adjournments and heated exchanges between the treasury and Opposition benches over multiple political issuesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-introduces-bankers-books-evidence-indian-statistical-institute-bills-in-lok-sabha-695403.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 14:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bankipur-bypoll-results-prashant-kishor-widens-lead-over-bjp-candidate-to-10-436-votes--695408.html Patna Aug 3 PTI Jan Suraaj Party candidate Prashant Kishor on Monday widened his lead over BJPs Neeraj Kumar Sinha to 10436 votes in the Bankipur assembly byelection in Bihar as the counting crossed the halfway mark officials saidCelebrations broke out at the Jan Suraaj Party headquarters and outside the counting centre at A N College here with supporters dancing to the tunes of local songs and distributing sweetsWhile political strategistturnedpolitician Kishor bagged 35713 votes Sinha got 25277 votes and RJDs Rekha Gupta stood third with 9316 votes after 18 rounds of counting A total of 31 rounds of counting will be heldThe counting of votes for the bypoll began at 8 am here on Monday with all eyes on whether debutant Kishor wrests the seat from the BJPTalking to reporters in Patna Bihar ministers Shrawon Kumar and Sunil Kumar both from the JDU said counting was still underway and everyone should have patience until final results were announcedThe byelection was necessitated following the resignation of BJP national president Nitin Nabin who gave up the seat in April upon election to the Rajya Sabha The BJP has fielded lowkey youth wing leader Neeraj Kumar SinhaRJDs Rekha Gupta who lost to BJPs Nitin Nabin in the 2025 assembly elections by a margin of over 50000 votes has been fielded again by her partyA little less than 38 lakh voters including 200060 men 179533 lakh women and 23 third gender persons were eligible to vote in the polls The bypoll held on July 30 recorded a voter turnout of 3430 per cent around 130208 voters down by more than seven per cent from the 4145 per cent registered in the last assembly elections RJD working president Tejashwi Yadav visited Baba Harihar Nath Temple in Sonepur and offered prayers before the counting began PTI SUKnbsp ACD 08031450Agencies https://dailyworld.in/national/bankipur-bypoll-results-prashant-kishor-widens-lead-over-bjp-candidate-to-10-436-votes--695408.html Mon, 03 Aug 2026 15:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/heavy-rain-forecast-in-north-bengal-till-aug-5-scattered-showers-to-continue-in-south-695308.html Kolkata Aug 2 The Meteorological Office on Sunday predicted heavy rain in North Bengal till August 5 and light to moderate rain in South Bengal for the next few days According to a Met Department official a lowpressure area and an active southwest monsoon axis are located in the southeast of Rajasthan due to which moisture is entering the state from the Bay of Bengal Therefore heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in several districts of North Bengal till Wednesday August 5Five districts namely Darjeeling Kalimpong Jalpaiguri Alipurduar and Cooch Behar may receive 7 to 20 centimetres of rainfall Heavy rainfall is also predicted in North Dinajpur district for a few days Heavy rainfall is likely in Jalpaiguri Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts on Thursday August 6 There is a possibility of scattered rain in all districts of North Bengal on Friday August 7Meanwhile favourable rain conditions will also continue in South Bengal There is a possibility of thunderstorms with gusty winds in South 24 Parganas East Midnapore West Midnapore Bankura East Burdwan West Burdwan Murshidabad and Birbhum districts in the next few days starting this day Officials stated that gusty winds could reach speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hourOn Monday a warning of heavy rain has been issued in North 24 Parganas Nadia and Murshidabad districts At the same time there is a possibility of rain with thunderstorms in all districts of South Bengal On Wednesday heavy rain may occur in Birbhum Murshidabad and East Burdwan districtsOn the other hand on Friday August 7 the Met Office has predicted heavy rain in South 24 Parganas East Midnapore West Midnapore Jhargram Bankura and Purulia districtsThe maximum temperature in Kolkata and its surrounding areas on Saturday was 3207 degrees Celsius which is 0002 degrees higher than normal The minimum temperature was 28 degrees Celsius 0104 degrees higher than normal The relative humidity was a maximum of 94 per cent and a minimum of 71 per cent IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/heavy-rain-forecast-in-north-bengal-till-aug-5-scattered-showers-to-continue-in-south-695308.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/drug-trade-part-of-hostile-nations-terror-agenda-pm-modi-cautions-youth-against-addiction-695312.html New Delhi Aug 2 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that hostile nations are attempting to weaken India by pushing drugs into the country and targeting its youth describing the illegal drug trade as part of an enemys terror agendanbspAddressing young people during the launch of the Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyaan the Prime Minister urged them to stay away from addiction and play a leading role in building a developed India by 2047Speaking at the launch of the nationwide campaign PM Modi said When a young person falls prey to drug addiction it is not just that individual who loses a dream is lostHe said that the consequences of addiction extend beyond individuals and families affecting the nations overall strength The national strength also weakens and hostile countries conspire to leave no stone unturned to drag our youth into the trap of addiction he saidDescribing narcotics trafficking as a deliberate strategy to harm India the Prime Minister added Profiting from supplying drugs and aiming to destroy a nation like ours is also part of their terror agenda Hence we need to save every youth from addiction You need to protect your potential by staying away from drugsWarning youngsters about the longterm consequences of substance abuse he remarked Drugs give you a high for a while but they destroy your familyCalling upon the youth to shoulder the responsibility of shaping the countrys future PM Modi said In the next 2025 years you will give a direction to your lives You will be the ones who will take India towards the resolution of Viksit Bharat till 2047 and you will be the ones sitting at the top of the peak fully savouring the fruits of that achievement The country needs your energy creative imagination and talent Hence for the country and your own lives keep yourselves away from drugsnbspnbspHe stated that the commitment of the new generations towards eradicating the problem of drug addiction from society has reaffirmed his belief that the youth of India is aware socially conscious and serious about their dutiesThe Prime Minister stressed that the next 100 Sundays will mark 100 strong steps towards a drugfree India He also mentioned that the activities under this initiative will include sports events walkathons meditation sessions cultural programmes awareness campaigns etcAs an MP from Kashi I am happy that last year this project was launched from the holy land of Kashi as a pilot project Therefore in addition to scientific clarity it also possesses spiritual energy the blessings of saints and cultural heritage It also embodies the cultural dedication that has rejected addiction for centuries This is why the countrys 125 spiritual organisations are working tirelessly to serve millions of citizens he mentioned adding that all these institutions adopted the Kashi Declaration a 5year roadmap for a drugfree India adopted in July 2025 at the Youth Spiritual Summit in VaranasinbspAll of you have strengthened my belief that the youth of India is aware socially conscious and serious about their duties he addednbspHighlighting the importance of rehabilitation PM Modi said Do not hide it behind the pressure of social reputation Those who need help should seek support Talk openly with them take the help of experts and make efforts to free your child from addiction with the support of medical professionals We should also create a culture of open communication with children within the family so that we can hold their hands before they get trapped in such a situationnbspYou will get signs if you pay a little attention you may notice changes in their behaviour They may appear lost start hiding their face remain locked in their rooms come home late at night or demand unnecessary amounts of money These are some indications that something may be wrong I would also like to appeal to our professor friends in colleges and universities Along with academic studies please talk to students about the dangers of drugs he addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/drug-trade-part-of-hostile-nations-terror-agenda-pm-modi-cautions-youth-against-addiction-695312.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/joint-forces-arrest-ogw-in-jampks-baramulla-recover-armsammunition-695313.html Srinagar Aug 2 In a joint operation on Sunday one overground worker OGW of terrorists was arrested in Jammu and Kashmirs Baramulla district and arms and ammunition were recovered from his possession Officials said the OGW was arrested by joint security forces âA joint âNakaâ Checkpost was set up at ZandfaranGoriwan Crossing in Narwav by personnel of 46 Rashtriya Rifles special operations group SOG of Baramulla police 53 Battalion CRPF and 112 Battalion BSF as part of intensified security measures During checking a suspicious person coming from the Goriwan side tried to flee upon spotting the naka party Alert troops chased and detained him on the spotâ the officials saidOn search of the suspect joint forces recovered one camouflaged MP5 type pistol one magazine with 10 live 9mm rounds one mobile phone and one black backpack from himThe arrested individual has been identified as Aijaz Ahmad Ganie son of Late Mohammad Sultan Ganie a resident of Namblan Sheeri Baramulla An FIR No 372026 has been registered at Police Station Sheeri under relevant sections of lawInvestigation is underway to ascertain his links and activities the officials saidOverground workers called OGWs are civilian helpers secret supporters and logistics providers for armed terror groupsThe OGWs provide safe houses food transport and also help move weapons They gather and share realtime information on troop movements for the terror groupsThey handle money through illegal channels like hawala OGWs find and radicalise vulnerable youthSecurity forces and intelligence agencies believe that OGWs constitute the hidden backbone of insurgencies terrorists without fighting directlyLaw enforcement agencies track and detain them under strict laws such as the Public Safety Act and UAPAIn the wake of terrorist killings of nonlocal labourers and a police head constable recently the police have rounded up around 2000 OGWs from various districts of the Valley to trace their links to the assailants IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/joint-forces-arrest-ogw-in-jampks-baramulla-recover-armsammunition-695313.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-dismantled-goodwill-behind-indus-waters-treaty-instead-of-dismantling-terror-infrastructure-indian-envoy-to-us-695314.html Washington Aug 2 IANS Indias Ambassador to the US Vinay Kwatra has said that the Indus Water Treaty IWT was signed in a spirit of goodwill and friendship in 1960 but Pakistan spent 50 years dismantling this and its abeyance merely acknowledges what Pakistans conduct had already destroyedThe IWT was signed between India and Pakistan in 1960 concerning the utilisation of the waters of the Indus system rivers Under the treaty India received control over the three eastern rivers which account for roughly 20 per cent of the basins water while Pakistan received the water of three western rivers which carry roughly 80 per cent of the water shareThat asymmetry stifled development for decades in Indian regions that could have benefited from better water rights India honoured the treaty anyway Kwatra a former Foreign Secretary wrote in an opinion piece in NewsweekHowever after last years heinous Pahalgam terror attack India exercised its rights as a sovereign nation under international law and placed the IWT in abeyance until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjured its support for crossborder terrorismThe Indian envoy said that Pakistans approach towards India had been marked by wars hostility and crossborder terrorist attacks including on the Indian Parliament the Mumbai terror attack the Uri and Pathankot attacks and the Pahalgam attack More than 40000 people have been killed in India due to Pakistans terror campaign according to KwatraAccording to Kwatra Pakistans approach to Indiainitiated projects was using obstruction and bureaucratic delays Repeated targeting of Indian project sites including the terrorist attack on the Tulbul Navigation Project in 2012 stopped India from exercising its rights under the treaty Kwatra stated that Pakistan opposed Indias initiatives to renegotiate the treaty in view of the technological change which would have enabled India to build its hydropower potentialPakistan eroded Indias faith that it could exercise its rights under the treaty or hope for a better one considering the current realities of the world he said noting that Pakistan was facing water scarcity due to its governments mismanagementIn the opinion piece he said It is worth remembering that the treatys preamble declares it was concluded in a spirit of goodwill and friendship Pakistan spent half a century dismantling that goodwill and friendship The abeyance merely acknowledges what Pakistans conduct had already destroyedResponding to calls for India and Pakistan to resume talks Kwatra said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has clearly voiced Indias stand today Terror and talks cannot go together Terror and trade cannot go together Water and blood cannot flow together Pakistans aggressive rhetorical incitement casting India as a water aggressor betrays the truth that the water scarcity Pakistanis face today is the product of their own governments mismanagementKwatra urged the Pakistan government to fix its dismal water productivity instead of holding conferences for blaming India and issuing threatsThe habit of pinning every domestic failure on its neighbour has grown old The world should say so unequivocally And if Pakistan does sincerely want Indias cooperation on bilateral issues it must first dismantle the terror infrastructure that it has builtIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistan-dismantled-goodwill-behind-indus-waters-treaty-instead-of-dismantling-terror-infrastructure-indian-envoy-to-us-695314.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-rain-fury-eight-dead-search-for-missing-continues-cm-assures-assistance-695315.html Thiruvananthapuram Aug 2 Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan on Sunday confirmed that so far eight people have lost their lives in rainrelated disasters in the state 13 have sustained injuries and eight remain missing while assuring financial assistance for those who lost their family members houses and livelihood In a post on X the Kerala CM said Communications continue with the Revenue Minister Ministers responsible for the districts and district administrations regarding the rain disaster in the state The reduction in rainfall compared to yesterday is encouragingMentioning that cleanup operations have begun in the floodaffected areas he urged political workers and voluntary organisations to participate in the cleanup effortsFull support from the government will be provided he statedFurther CM Satheesan said According to the latest figures eight deaths have been confirmed Eight people are missing 13 people have been injured 5792 people have been relocated to 209 relief camps 27 houses have been completely destroyed and 196 houses partially damagedHe assured that the state government will ensure assistance to the families of the deceased and those who have lost their homes and livelihoodsVigilance must continue in the hilly areas Even though the amount of rain has decreased preparations have been made to face any eventuality Peoples representatives and voluntary workers are actively involved in relief operations For any needs contact can be made with government systems CM Satheesan saidMeanwhile the Indian Meteorological Department IMD has issued an orange alert for 12 districts in KeralaIt has warned of heavy rains and the possibility of flash floods mudslides and road and neighbourhood inundation in Pathanamthitta Alappuzha Kottayam Ernakulam Idukki Thrissur Palakkad Malappuram Kozhikode Wayanad Kannur and Kasargod districtsFurther red and orange alerts have been issued to dams under Kerala State Electricity Board KSEBRed alert has been issued to Moozhiyar Kallarkutty Erattayar Lower Periyar and Peringalkuttu dams while an orange alert has been issued to Kuttyadi damPreviously the IMD had issued a formal red alert for Pathanamthitta Idukki and other districts of Kerala on Saturday morning But by then torrential rain had already battered the region and disaster had unfolded making the upgraded warning largely ineffectiveUnder the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority KSDMA protocol an orange alert signifies action requiring authorities to initiate preventive measures IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-rain-fury-eight-dead-search-for-missing-continues-cm-assures-assistance-695315.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-minister-nirmal-kumar-accuses-dmk-of-obstructing-cauvery-water-release-695316.html Chennai Aug 2 Tamil Nadu Minister Nirmal Kumar has accused the DMK of working with Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to create hurdles to the release of Cauvery water to the state alleging that the opposition party does not want CM Vijay to receive political credit for resolving the longstanding interstate water dispute Speaking to reporters in Chennai Nirmal Kumar alleged that the DMK was attempting to prevent the Vijay government from securing Tamil Naduâs legitimate share of Cauvery waterHe claimed that the partyâs actions were politically motivated and aimed at denying the Chief Minister public recognition over the issue âThe DMK does not want Chief Minister Vijay to earn goodwill among the people That is why it is creating obstacles in the Cauvery issue along with Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumarâ Nirmal Kumar allegedThe Minister also questioned the AIADMKâs approach to the Cauvery dispute asking why the party had chosen to approach the courts instead of registering its opposition and pressing the issue strongly in the Tamil Nadu Legislative AssemblyReferring to demands for an allparty meeting on the Cauvery dispute Nirmal Kumar said there was a lack of political unity in Tamil Nadu on the issueHe maintained that differences among political parties should not be allowed to weaken the stateâs efforts to secure its rightful share of Cauvery waterResponding to DMK president MK Stalinâs claim that Chief Minister Vijay had become politically isolated the Minister said such statements would have no bearing on the interests of Tamil Nadu or its peopleThe government he asserted would continue to pursue the stateâs water rights irrespective of political criticism from opposition partiesNirmal Kumar also targeted Karnataka CM Shivakumar questioning whether the Congress leadership was in a position to influence him on the Cauvery issueHe alleged that Shivakumar was not prepared to listen to the Congress high command on the watersharing dispute and claimed that the Karnataka leader was more inclined to heed StalinThe Ministerâs remarks come amid continuing political exchanges in Tamil Nadu over the Cauvery dispute with parties trading accusations over the strategy required to ensure the state receives its stipulated share of water from KarnatakaThe issue has once again emerged as a major political flashpoint with the ruling and opposition camps accusing each other of undermining Tamil Naduâs interests IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-minister-nirmal-kumar-accuses-dmk-of-obstructing-cauvery-water-release-695316.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mayawati-expels-ashok-siddharth-from-bsp-again-over-indiscipline-695321.html Lucknow August 2 Bahujan Samaj Party BSP chief Mayawati on Sunday expelled former MP Ashok Siddharth from the party for the second time over indiscipline and antiparty stance Ashok Siddharth is the fatherinlaw of Akash Anand the nephew of Mayawati whom she appointed the partyâs national convenor last year effectively making him the partyâs secondincommandSenior party leader Randhir Singh Beniwal has also been shown the door with immediate effectTaking to X the BSP supremo stated that the party has taken stern action against the duo for gross indiscipline and violating the party guidelines âIt is well known that Ashok Siddharth had previously been expelled for indiscipline and violating guidelines specifically regarding the distribution of party tickets and a failure to coordinate properly with BSP Maharashtra state president during state elections He had been reinstated on the condition that he would not repeat such mistakes and would be assigned responsibility of expanding the partys support base only in other states not in Uttar PradeshâShe also informed that Ashok Siddharth will not be taken back into the party âunder any circumstances in the futureâ Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Gautam has been reappointed as the incharge for Punjab alongside other states and will continue to discharge responsibility through both the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections and the subsequent Lok Sabha general electionsMayawati also stated that it is the current policy decision of BSP leadership that any senior party officebearer or coordinator hailing from UP who is currently fulfilling responsibilities in states outside UP will not be assigned any party role within the stateShe also made a special appeal to party members to remain vigilant against âmischievous and conspiratorialâ elements who attempt to derail or harm the campaign driven by firm resolve to form BSP government in Uttar Pradesh Yesterday she said in a stern message that all the candidates for upcoming elections will be finalised by her and not by her nephew Akash Anand settling the speculations over power structure in the party and asserting that she remains the undisputed boss of party IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mayawati-expels-ashok-siddharth-from-bsp-again-over-indiscipline-695321.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mayawati-expels-former-mp-ashok-siddharth-from-bsp-again-over-indiscipline-695322.html Lucknow August 2 Bahujan Samaj Party BSP chief Mayawati on Sunday expelled former MP Ashok Siddharth from the party for the second time over indiscipline and antiparty stance Ashok Siddharth is the fatherinlaw of Akash Anand the nephew of Mayawati whom she appointed the partyâs national convenor last year effectively making him the partyâs secondincommandSenior party leader Randhir Singh Beniwal has also been shown the door with immediate effectTaking to X the BSP supremo stated that the party has taken stern action against the duo for gross indiscipline and violating the party guidelinesâIt is well known that Ashok Siddharth had previously been expelled for indiscipline and violating guidelines specifically regarding the distribution of party tickets and a failure to coordinate properly with BSP Maharashtra state president during state elections He had been reinstated on the condition that he would not repeat such mistakes and would be assigned responsibility of expanding the partys support base only in other states not in Uttar PradeshâShe also informed that Ashok Siddharth will not be taken back into the party âunder any circumstances in the futureâRajya Sabha MP Ramji Gautam has been reappointed as the incharge for Punjab alongside other states and will continue to discharge responsibility through both the upcoming Punjab Assembly elections and the subsequent Lok Sabha general electionsMayawati also stated that it is the current policy decision of BSP leadership that any senior party officebearer or coordinator hailing from UP who is currently fulfilling responsibilities in states outside UP will not be assigned any party role within the stateShe also made a special appeal to party members to remain vigilant against âmischievous and conspiratorialâ elements who attempt to derail or harm the campaign driven by firm resolve to form BSP government in Uttar PradeshYesterday she said in a stern message that all the candidates for upcoming elections will be finalised by her and not by her nephew Akash Anand settling the speculations over power structure in the party and asserting that she remains the undisputed boss of party IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mayawati-expels-former-mp-ashok-siddharth-from-bsp-again-over-indiscipline-695322.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-surpasses-us-to-become-worlds-second-fastest-growing-solar-energy-market-695325.html New Delhi Aug 2 Indias installed solar power capacity has surged by a massive 50fold from a mere 3 GW in 2014 to scale the 16215 GW mark till June 30 2026 marking the dawn of a new era in renewable energy according to a factsheet issued by the government on Sunday The country added 37 GW of solar capacity in 2025 surpassing the United States in annual additions to emerge as the worlds secondlargest solar growth market it saidOne of the most significant developments in the solar sector has been the decline in power tariffs over the past decade This was driven by bidding through the eReverse Auction mechanism where developers compete to supply electricity at the lowest tariff As more developers participated the tariffs declined from around Rs 18 per unit in 2010 to a recordlow of Rs 244 per unitThe decline in tariffs has made solar power increasingly affordable As a result India has emerged as one of the worlds lowestcost solar power markets In 2025 the Levelised Cost of Electricity LCOE from utilityscale solar PV stood at 35 per MWh well below the global average of 44 per MWhIndias solar sector has received a major boost with the approval of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana PMSSY on July 31 2026 The scheme aims to support 5000 MW of Floating Solar Photovoltaic FSPV projects with colocated Energy Storage Systems ESS The ESS with a minimum storage capacity of two hours 10000 MWh will further help states manage peak demand By utilising existing reservoirs and industrial ponds the scheme will reduce pressure on scarce land resources It will also improve grid reliability through integrated energy storage With an outlay of Rs 5070 crore the scheme will be implemented from FY 2026â 27 to FY 2030â 31Large solar projects in India contribute 11879 GW of installed capacity Some of the large solar projects include the Bhadla Solar Park Rajasthan Pavagada Solar Park Karnataka and Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Park Madhya Pradesh Rooftop solar systems connected to the electricity grid contribute another 2788 GW The remaining capacity comes from hybrid solar projects and offgrid solar systems Hybrid projects combine solar power with battery storage or other power sources while Offgrid systems provide electricity in areas not connected to the gridTotal nonfossil fuel capacity reached 28346 GW including 27468 GW of renewable energy capacity On 29 July 2025 renewable energy sources met 515 per cent of Indias electricity demand the highest monthly share recorded so farAt COP26 in Glasgow India announced the Panchamrit goals which include 500 GW of nonfossil fuel capacity by 2030 and netzero emissions by 2070 These commitments were reflected in Indias updated Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-surpasses-us-to-become-worlds-second-fastest-growing-solar-energy-market-695325.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-greatest-strength-lies-in-its-65-pc-young-population-jampk-l-g-695327.html Srinagar Aug 2 Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said on Sunday that Indiaâs greatest strength lies in its young population which accounts for nearly 65 per cent of the total population LG Sinha attended the launch of the âNasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyanâ at a UTLevel function organised by the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports and SKUASTKashmirThe 100week mega campaign was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi marking a nationwide resolve to secure Indiaâs future by empowering its youth and eliminating the menace of drugsAddressing the youth of Jammu and Kashmir the Lieutenant Governor emphasised that Indiaâs greatest strength lies in its young population with nearly 65 per cent below the age of 35He also highlighted that 37 crore youth in the 1529 age group are eager to contribute to nationbuilding âThe Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan seeks to energise this demographic guiding them towards healthy lifestyles and active participation in developmentHe said Indiaâs youth must emerge like a cloud of energy spreading across the horizon of developmentThe Lieutenant Governor observed that the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan launched in 2020 by the Prime Minister is not merely a government programme but a social movement against the drug menace Its objective is to instil values of selfdiscipline positive thinking and strong determination among citizensThe Lieutenant Governor noted that over one crore youth are joining the âNasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat Sankalp Abhiyanâ at nearly 10000 locations nationwide reflecting the collective responsibility of society to protect young people from drugsMore than 35000 MY Bharat youth clubs Nehru Yuva Kendras schools colleges and industry organisations are participating in the 100week campaign which connects youth every Sunday across the countryThe LG expressed confidence that this initiative will become a milestone in uprooting drugs from society Congratulating the youth of Jammu and Kashmir he praised their active participation in the 100day Nasha Mukt JampK Abhiyan conducted from April 11 to July 20He said this campaign has become a model of success for the entire nation âThe combined efforts of administration police social organisations educational institutions religious leaders and citizens proved that even the biggest challenges can be overcome when society unites for a common purposeâ the Lieutenant Governor saidHe also highlighted the significant achievements of the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaignAround 2300 FIRs have been registered 2600 people arrested and 1500 kilograms of narcotics seized More than 331 properties worth around Rs 200 crore belonging to narcoterrorists and drug smugglers have been attachedAdditionally over 370 driving licenses and 750 vehicle registrations have been cancelled with recommendations made to cancel nearly 3000 Aadhaar cards The Lieutenant Governor said these actions demonstrate the governmentâs unwavering policy against the drug network that threatens the future of youthâWhile enforcement remains crucial public awareness and rehabilitation are equally important We will soon initiate the Rehabilitation and SocioEconomic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims 2026 The pilot project will begin in the two mostaffected districts of Kashmir and Jammu divisions Designed as a threeyear rehabilitation cycle the scheme will focus on medical treatment counselling education skill development employment reintegration and longterm monitoring I see youth affected by drugs as victims and we need to ensure their dignity livelihood and a meaningful futureâ the Lieutenant Governor saidHe urged families teachers and youth organisations to play a proactive role in guiding youth âParents and teachers are the greatest guides and must support youth through dialogue trust and encouragement Volunteers of MY Bharat Nehru Yuva Kendras and youth clubs should take the campaignâs message to every village school college and communityâ he saidThe Lieutenant Governor exhorted the youth to stay away from drugs inspire peers and become healthy disciplined and responsible citizens He expressed confidence that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir will dispel the darkness of drugs and spread the light of knowledge progress and positive energyâA healthy youth a strong family and an aware public will become the identity of Viksit Bharatâ the Lieutenant Governor saidOn the occasion the Lieutenant Governor also administered the Nasha Mukt Yuva Pledge to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai Vice Chancellor SKUAST Kashmir Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary CommissionerSecretary Youth Services and Sports Department Anshul Garg Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Nitin Hangloo Director Mera Yuva Bharat MY Bharat JampK senior officials members of Youth Clubs Nehru Yuva Kendras prominent citizens and youth in large numbers attended the UTlevel function IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-greatest-strength-lies-in-its-65-pc-young-population-jampk-l-g-695327.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/chinas-workers-losing-jobs-due-to-rapid-ai-rollout-695332.html New Delhi July 2 The deployment of AI in China is progressing at a much faster pace triggering concerns of more job losses in an uncertain labour market a media report said Taxi drivers in Wuhan were rendered jobless as driverless cabs were rolled out in the city There was some relief and drivers got back their jobs when some of these cabs suddenly stalled causing traffic jams on the roads and the fleet was withdrawn for investigation highlights the report by journalist Amy Hawkins in the Guardian newspaperRecent incidents of whitecollar workers being replaced by AI have also added to the fears of largescale unemployment resulting from the use of this new technologyAddressing Shanghaiâs World AI Conference in July Chinese President Xi Jinping said that AI should be âan important driver for shared prosperity and common securityâHowever the report noted that the goal is being pursued amid an increasingly fragile labour marketAs well as suffering from high levels of unemployment China has seen tens of millions of workers drop out of formal employment into the gig economy According to one thinktank the number of people in flexible employment will rise to 320 million this year up from 160 million in 2019 That is about 44 pc of Chinaâs workforce it saidAcross the country as industries such as real estate and education have gone into a recession workers have turned to ridehailing apps to make ends meet But now the rollout of robotaxis one of the most popular applications of AI that is already in use in China is threatening their livelihoods the report pointed outRecent court rulings have awarded compensation to whitecollar workers laid off by their firms to be replaced by AI But many workers fear that the rollout of AI will leave fewer jobs in the market for them to get employmentThe report also highlights the experience of cinematographer Tian Zemin who has been working in the film industry in Beijing for close to 20 years and has lost his job to AIâI spent six gruelling years working my way up to become a cinematographer only to be replaced by a piece of softwareâ the report cites him as saying in a social media post about AIMany analysts believe that China where the government exerts significant control over the private sector will be better placed than the US to contain the fallout from AIrelated job losses Beijing could for example instruct companies to comply with hiring quotasHowever the dilemma is that these protections may not come in time to save jobs that are currently being lost the report added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/chinas-workers-losing-jobs-due-to-rapid-ai-rollout-695332.html Sun, 02 Aug 2026 16:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/omcs-cut-commercial-lpg-cylinder-prices-by-over-rs-200-695112.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS Stateowned oil marketing companies OMCs on Saturday reduced the price of 19kg commercial LPG cylinders by over Rs 200 across major cities providing relief to restaurants hotels and other commercial establishments that depend on the fuel for cookingnbspThe price of 19kg commercial LPG cylinders has been reduced by more than Rs 200 in Delhi and Kolkata The latest revision which took effect on August 1 saw the price of a commercial cylinder fall by Rs 202 in Delhi and Rs 209 in KolkataIn Kolkata the revised price of a 19kg commercial LPG cylinder stands at Rs 287250 The reduction however is limited to commercial LPG usersHowever prices of 142kg domestic LPG cylinders used by households remain unchangedThe reduction comes as global energy markets continue to adjust to supply risks arising from geopolitical tensions in the regionOn July 1 the OMCs reduced the price of 19kg commercial LPG cylinders by up to Rs 1835 across major citiesThe decision of price reduction comes after commercial LPG prices witnessed multiple increases amid rising global energy prices triggered by West Asia conflictEarlier the government relaxed LPG supply restrictions for commercial and industrial users after fuel availability improvedIt restored 50 per cent of supplies to customers whose allocations had earlier been suspended as part of measures to prioritise domestic household demandDuring the war the government had issued orders under the Essential Commodities Act requiring C3C4 streams to be utilised exclusively for LPG production diverting them from petrochemical and other downstream usesMoreover the government had directed the OMCs to continue maintaining comprehensive data on commercial and industrial LPG consumers to facilitate efficient planning and supply managementIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/omcs-cut-commercial-lpg-cylinder-prices-by-over-rs-200-695112.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-sentences-seven-convicts-to-two-years-rigorous-imprisonment-in-lok-priya-vihar-cghs-scam-case-695113.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS A CBI Court in New Delhi has sentenced seven convicts including two former public servants in connection with the fraudulent revival of the Lok Priya Cooperative Group Housing Society CGHS an official statement said on SaturdaynbspThe convicted public servants are RK Shrivastava the then Registrar of Cooperative Societies and PN Manchanda the then Assistant Registrar The five private individuals convicted in the case are KK Wadhwa Anil Kumar Sunil Kumar Devender Pal Singh and Ravi SalujaThe two former public servants have been sentenced to two years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 75000 each for offences related to criminal misconduct The five private individuals have also been awarded two years of rigorous imprisonment along with fines for offences involving cheating criminal conspiracy and the use of forged documentsThe Central Bureau of Investigation CBI had registered the case in September 2006 as part of its probe into the fraudulent revival of defunct or woundup Cooperative Group Housing Societies that were originally registered between 1970 and 1980According to the investigation the private accused entered into a criminal conspiracy with officials of the Office of the Registrar of Cooperative Societies to illegally revive the Lok Priya CGHS As part of the conspiracy forged and fabricated documents were allegedly used to secure the allotment of land from the Delhi Development Authority DDAAfter completion of investigation the CBI filed a charge sheet on January 27 2008 against the accused persons before the competent Court in DelhiAfter a detailed trial the court convicted all seven accused on July 14 Subsequently on July 30 the court pronounced the sentence awarding two years of rigorous imprisonment and imposing fines on the convicts in accordance with the offences proved against themEarlier on July 31 the CBI had seized documents and digital devices while searching commercial and residential premises at 10 locations including Hyderabad and Vizianagaram in a Rs 10544 crore loan fraud committed by NCS Sugars against Punjab National BankIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-sentences-seven-convicts-to-two-years-rigorous-imprisonment-in-lok-priya-vihar-cghs-scam-case-695113.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rbi-may-hold-rates-in-august-mpc-as-q1-growth-likely-to-cross-7-pc-report-695114.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS The Reserve Bank of India RBI is likely to keep policy rates unchanged in its Monetary Policy Committee MPC meeting this month as consumer price inflation is expected to remain above 5 per cent for the next two quarters and Q1 FY27 domestic product growth may exceed about 7 per cent a report said on SaturdaynbspThe report from SBI Research said that 35 billion of capital inflows through July have recouped foreign exchange buffers by 125 billion by July 24 and vacated the outstanding forward position by 13 billion in the short end up to 3 months till June endThe RBI MPC may therefore maintain a status quo on rates the report said adding that an explicitly dovish message is less likely given oil volatility rupee pressure and external flow cautionThe upcoming RBI MPC meeting is scheduled for August 35 with the policy rate decision announcement set for August 5Global economy remains uncertain amidst the West Asia crisis with diverging trends visible across countries The US economy slowed down unexpectedly in AprJun 2026 quarter the research firm notedIn the last three policies RBI downgraded Q1 FY 27 GDP growth projection from 69 per cent to 66 per cent due to war in the Middle east However now we believe that situation has changed and Q1 growth print may be much better than anticipated it notedGlobal currency dynamics remain unbalanced with the rupee bearing most of the brunt in MarchThe report mentioned deft manoeuvrability by the RBI in altering the outstanding composition with a focus on alleviating the pressure along the short or near end to support the rupee from depreciation expectations on account of hedging operations from exporters and importersMonsoon has recovered with July surplus showers reducing the nationwide rainfall shortfall to 13 per cent Reservoir levels are near normal and kharif sowing is only 47 per cent lower than 2025 levels supporting rural demandThe banks research wing also flagged concerns about a potential AI bubble Every major technological revolution attracts large amounts of capital speculation optimism and sometimes overoptimism It is entirely possible that companies are overinvesting in AI infrastructure today it addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rbi-may-hold-rates-in-august-mpc-as-q1-growth-likely-to-cross-7-pc-report-695114.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistani-deepfake-campaign-shifts-focus-to-pm-modi-to-reignite-student-protests-695115.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS The Indian Intelligence agencies have flagged a sudden increase in the number of deepfake videos with a specific intention of targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi The intention of such videos is to instigate the youth into targeting the PMnbspThere are scores of such videos that are in circulation claiming that the PM is looking to take stringent action against students who took part in the recent protestsAlmost all videos that the Pakistani handles are trying to push into the online space only target PM Modi and how he wants to take action against the studentsAn Intelligence Bureau official said that this is systematic targeting with the clear intention to get the students on the streets They are trying to incite the students to return to the streets and this time around only target the PMDuring the recent protests the students were more focussed around the NEET paper leaks and once action was taken by the Union Government against former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan the situation calmed downThe official added that the Pakistani handles are singling out PM Modi this time around and they hope that through the students they can effect a regime changeThe government had made it clear that no coercive measures or legal action would be taken against students who took part in peaceful protests Delhi Bihar West Bengal Assam and Maharashtra had given the students this assurance last weekOn Thursday the Delhi government clarified that no adverse legal action is being taken against students who took part in the NEETUG protests in the national CapitalIt also ordered the closure of proceedings in 13 FIRs that were registered in connection with the demonstrationsAn official said that the government has clearly signalled that it wants a solution and not a confrontation This has upset the ISIbacked elements and has led them to ramp up fake videos and claimsThese elements have circulated several deepfake videos of the PM in which he is heard saying that strict action would be taken against those students who protested at Jantar MantarThose who protested against the BJP government will face the consequences the PM is heard saying in this altered videoMany Pakistani handles have used the video of the PM in which he had said that action would be taken against the paper mafia He thanked the students for sending out positive and constructive suggestions regarding the examination processIn the latest clip the PM appealed for restraint and forgiveness after abusive slogans were directed at him during the protestsAbuses dont solve anything Let us guide the misguided and let us work together Let us work for Bharat PM Modi had also saidAnother official said that the frustrations of the Pakistanis is that the government managed to find a solution and the protests came to an end They would have hoped that the protests continued longer so that this would have shaken the establishmentThe official said that this is a part of Pakistans larger game to shake the peoples faith in a democratically elected governmentThe decision to ramp up the circulation of such fake videos with the intention of creating trouble in India is also a diversionary tactic from their own problems in PakistanoccupiedKashmir PoK Balochistan and Khyber Paktunkhwa KP the official saidA couple of weeks back these same handles would put out deepfake videos mainly about the Indian Army However the recent pattern suggests that they are looking to target the PM alone in a bid to cause confusion and hatred in the minds of the students the officials sayMore such attempts would be made in the days to come and the people especially the students must not fall into the trap of these Pakistani based social media handles officials also noteIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pakistani-deepfake-campaign-shifts-focus-to-pm-modi-to-reignite-student-protests-695115.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 13:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lop-rahul-gandhi-condemns-kulgam-terror-attack-demands-harshest-punishment-for-perpetrators-695116.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS Leader of the Opposition LoP in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmirs Kulgam district that claimed the lives of two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh describing the incident as extremely tragic and calling for the strictest action against those responsiblenbspTaking to social media platform X LoP Rahul Gandhi expressed condolences to the bereaved families and reiterated the nations collective resolve against terrorismThe cowardly terrorist attack in Kulgam Jammu and Kashmir which resulted in the murder of two workers from our country is extremely tragic I extend my condolences to the grieving families Strict action must be taken against the terrorists for this dastardly attack and they must receive the harshest possible punishment The nation remains united against terrorism LoP Gandhi postedThe attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders across party lines with demands for swift action against those involvedThe incident took place on Friday evening when terrorists opened fire on two brick kiln workers from Chhattisgarh in Kellam village of Kulgam district critically injuring both menThe victims were rushed to the Government Medical College Hospital in Anantnag for treatmentOne of the injured identified as Deepak succumbed to his injuries at the hospital on Friday nightThe second victim Bopinder was later shifted to the ShereKashmir Institute of Medical Sciences SKIMS Soura in Srinagar for advanced treatment where he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday morningThe killing of the two migrant labourers has been widely condemned by local political and religious leaders who described the attack as an assault on innocent civiliansJammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also condemned the attack and announced an ex gratia relief of Rs 10 lakh each for the next of kin of the two deceased workers The compensation will be provided from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund according to an official announcementThe latest attack comes less than two weeks after terrorists shot dead Head Constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi in Anantnag on July 22 while he was deployed for security duties during the annual Amarnath YatraSecurity officials say terrorists have increasingly resorted to targeting unarmed civilians including migrant labourers roadside vendors and drivers after years of attacking prominent citizens political workers judges religious leaders and members of the security forces The shift in tactics is aimed at spreading fear and disrupting normalcy in the Kashmir ValleyIn response to the recent attacks security forces and the Jammu and Kashmir Police have intensified vigil around transit camps and other locations housing nonlocal workers to prevent further incidents and ensure their safetyIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lop-rahul-gandhi-condemns-kulgam-terror-attack-demands-harshest-punishment-for-perpetrators-695116.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 14:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/arvind-kejriwal-announces-march-to-pm-modis-residence-on-august-4-over-e20-695136.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS Aam Aadmi Party AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday demanded that the NDA government at the Centre provide consumers with the option to choose between pure petrol and E20 fuel at petrol pumps and announced a march to Prime Minister Narendra Modis residence on August 4 to submit petitions signed by citizensAddressing the National Townhall Against E20 Kejriwal said A few days ago I appealed to people to sign a petition addressed to the Prime Minister More than 2 lakh people have signed the petition online I have taken printouts of all those signatures On Tuesday the 4th at 12 noon I will personally take those petitions and march towards the Prime Ministers residence to submit them Not everyone needs to come I will take 100 people with me who are not afraid of lathis and not afraid of going to jail Whoever wants to join should write to me and tag me We will take 100 people along march towards the Prime Ministers residence and then see what happens after thatReacting to his proposed protest march towards PM Modis residence on August 4 to submit a citizens petition seeking changes to the Centres E20 fuel policy Kejriwal said As far as they Congress leaders were allowed to go I hope we will also be allowed to go that far More than 2 lakh people have signed the petitionSpeaking about the turnout at the event Kejriwal said I can see that the entire hall is packed As many people are sitting an equal number of people are standing and screens have also been placed outside In front of those screens as many people are present outside as there are inside More than 4 lakh people are watching this programme online todayClaiming that the government was closely monitoring the event he said I have full confidence that today the government is also watching this programme Whenever their ministers come they say E20 is safe E20 has no problem Those who raise their voice against E20 are antinational I want to tell them today we kept so many testimonies in front of you Today we kept so many proofsHe further said With this we get to know that how people are worried with this issues Today people have raised three demands there should be choice at petrol pumps for people Whosoever wants E20 can have it or if other wants to have pure petrol they can have it Second demand they said that the cost of E20 should be less than pure petrol third when the crude oil price has decreased now the petrol price should be less than Rs 84IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/arvind-kejriwal-announces-march-to-pm-modis-residence-on-august-4-over-e20-695136.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 15:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-railways-greenlights-rs-976-crore-multitracking-project-in-bihar-695162.html New Delhi Aug 1 In a bid to support the socioeconomic development of Bihar Indian Railways has approved multitracking of the 29 km Danapur to Fatuha section of East Central Railway for Rs 976 crore an official statement said on Saturday The approval reaffirms the commitment of Indian Railways to expanding capacity on highdensity routes strengthening logistics for energy and industryThe project will decongest one of the busiest stretches on the Patna rail corridor and create room for a large increase in both passenger and freight services according to Railways MinistryIn the first year of operation the project will allow 22 additional passenger trains and 18 additional freight trains every dayIt will also enable handling of an additional 52 million tonnes per annum of freight trafficThe project forms part of the quadrupling initiative on the Delhi Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction Patna Kiul Bhagalpur Khanna and Howrah routeThis route is identified under the Energy Mineral and Cement Corridor of Indian RailwaysThe strengthened section is also vital for the upcoming 2120 MW thermal power plant at Chausa in Buxar district which will depend on rail movement of bulk inputs according to the statementThe sanctioned work covers three components Third and fourth lines will be laid between Danapur and Patna A third line will be laid between Rajendra Nagar and Patna SahebThird and fourth lines will be laid between Patna Saheb and Fatuha The additional lines will ease congestion minimise delays and improve punctuality across the Patna region according to the statementAccording to the ministry Railways is headed for a transformative expansion with the government having approved a total investment of Rs 153 lakh crore across 100 new projects in 202526 covering more than 6000 kilometres of railway networkCompared to FY 2024â25 where 64 projects worth Rs 72869 crore covering over 2800 kilometres were cleared project approvals have increased by 56 per cent route coverage has surged by over 114 per cent and financial commitment has witnessed a remarkable jump of more than 110 per cent according to a factsheet released by the ministry IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indian-railways-greenlights-rs-976-crore-multitracking-project-in-bihar-695162.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/thoppu-venkatachalam-removed-from-dmk-post-speculation-grows-over-possible-exit-695164.html Erode Tamil Nadu Aug 1 Former Minister Thoppu ND Venkatachalam has been removed from his organisational responsibilities in the DMK triggering speculation that he may soon quit the party and join another political outfit Venkatachalam who served as a minister during the previous AIADMK government had subsequently joined the DMK and was appointed incharge of the partyâs Erode Central district unitHis removal comes amid reports of continuing differences between him and former DMK minister S Muthusamy a senior party leader from Erode districtAnnouncing the organisational changes DMK general secretary Duraimurugan said Venkatachalam had been relieved of his responsibility as the Erode Central district inchargeAs part of the restructuring the DMK has also decided to dissolve the existing Erode Central district arrangement and redistribute the Assembly constituencies under it between the partyâs neighbouring district unitsAccording to the announcement the Perundurai Assembly constituency which was under the Erode Central district unit will now be brought under the Erode South district The Bhavani Assembly constituency will be attached to the Erode North district The respective district secretaries will henceforth oversee party activities in the two constituenciesThe decision effectively leaves Venkatachalam without a significant organisational position in the DMK and has fuelled speculation over his political futureParty circles have been discussing Venkatachalamâs next move for some time particularly against the backdrop of his reported differences with MuthusamyHis removal from the districtlevel post has now intensified speculation that he could formally sever his association with the DMKVenkatachalam had joined the DMK after a long stint with the AIADMK where he had emerged as an influential politician from the Erode region and held a ministerial portfolio when the party was in powerHis induction into the DMK and subsequent appointment as Erode Central district incharge had been seen as an attempt by the party to utilise his political base and organisational experience in the regionReports now suggest that Venkatachalam may shortly resign from the primary membership of the DMK and join another party IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/thoppu-venkatachalam-removed-from-dmk-post-speculation-grows-over-possible-exit-695164.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/commercial-lpg-price-cut-brings-relief-to-traders-small-businesses-695165.html New Delhi Aug 1 Traders shopkeepers and customers across Delhi and Uttar Pradesh on Saturday welcomed the governments decision to reduce commercial LPG cylinder prices saying the move would provide muchneeded relief to small businesses and help ease inflationary pressure Commercial LPG cylinder prices witnessed a significant reduction on Saturday with the price of a 19kg cylinder cut by up to Rs 209 across major cities The retail price of a 19kg commercial LPG cylinder has been reduced by Rs 202 in Delhi and Rs 209 in Kolkata effective August 1Following the revision the price of commercial LPG stands at Rs 2738 per cylinder in Delhi and Rs 2872 per cylinder in KolkataSpeaking to IANS traders and customers said the reduction would lower operating costs and benefit businesses that rely heavily on commercial LPGA trader in Delhis Vasant Kunj expressed gratitude for the governments decision and said the reduction would help small businesses recover from rising costs He said that due to the high price of commercial cylinders many shopkeepers were forced to increase the prices of their productsAccording to him the price of tea at his shop had been raised from Rs 10 to Rs 15 resulting in a fall of nearly 50 per cent in customers He added that the latest price cut would provide relief to both traders and consumersIn Mirzapur Uttar Pradesh a shopkeeper described the move as a commendable step for the public He said lower LPG prices would have a positive impact on the prices of other goods as well making several essential items more affordable He welcomed the governments decision stating that it would benefit both businesses and consumersA customer in Mirzapur also welcomed the reduction saying that the Rs 202 cut in commercial LPG prices could help bring down inflation He termed it a positive decision and expressed hope that prices might decrease further in the future if global economic conditions improveTraders in Prayagraj also reacted positively to the announcement One trader said the governments initiative was in the interest of the trading community and would help address the difficulties faced due to high cylinder prices He said traders were pleased with the decision and expected it to provide financial reliefAnother trader from the city said the reduction in commercial LPG rates would significantly reduce business expenses He thanked the government for lowering the prices and said the move would help small enterprises sustain their operations more effectivelyIn Maharajganj a trader said the reduction in cylinder prices was welcome news for businesses dependent on LPG He expressed hope that prices would decline further in the coming months which could attract more customers He added that rising LPG costs had earlier forced sweet shop owners and other businesses to increase the prices of their products affecting sales and customer footfallThe reduction in commercial LPG prices is expected to benefit restaurants tea stalls sweet shops and other small businesses that depend on commercial cylinders for their daily operations IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/commercial-lpg-price-cut-brings-relief-to-traders-small-businesses-695165.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:10:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rbi-foreign-exchange-swap-facility-draws-40816-billion-till-july-31-fcnr-695166.html New Delhi Aug 1 The Reserve Bank of India RBI on Saturday said its concessional foreign exchange swap facility has attracted 40816 billion in overseas currency inflows since June when it was launched Foreign Currency NonResident Bank deposits account for the bulk of the mobilisation according to data received from authorised dealer banksTotal inflows under the facility stood at 40816 billion as of July 31 FCNR B deposits contributed 36725 billion to the total while Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings OFCBs accounted for 2575 billion External Commercial Borrowings ECBs brought in a further 1516 billionThe swap facility has seen avid interest and attracted steady forex inflows since June 8 2026 the RBI said in a statement âRBI had announced a facility for offering concessional swaps for fresh FCNR B deposits OFCB and ECB inflows on June 5 2026 and the same was operationalised on June 8 2026 which is available up to September 30 2026 for the FCNR B deposits and up to December 31 2026 for the OFCBs and ECBsâ said Central BankAccording to a latest report India may receive FCNR B deposits in the range of 6570 billion by the end of the RBI scheme on September 30 and overall 8085 billionAn SBI Research report said that âWe now estimate that FCNR B since then has already crossed 2013 level of 26 billion in just 45 daysâThe earlier RBI data indicated that FCNR B deposits worth 174 billion have been mobilised till July 17 2026 and trend suggests that PSBs are major drivers of this mobilisationâWe also believe that significant majority of existing FCNR deposits which are going to mature in AugustSeptember 2026 will be renewed under the new scheme gravitated by higher interest rates and will boost the FCNR B inflowsâ the report mentionedPublic Sector Banks front led by larger banks are apparently anchoring the drive ensuring incremental flows by leveraging not only the deposits but also the trust built with materially significant clientele credit worthiness and risk profile duly factored spread across various geographies and remaining tacitly agile by shifting their strategy to an optimally blended OnshoreOffshore game plan IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rbi-foreign-exchange-swap-facility-draws-40816-billion-till-july-31-fcnr-695166.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-health-dept-bars-11-blood-banks-from-conducting-donation-camps-probe-on-into-irregularities-695167.html Kolkata Aug 1 The West Bengal Health Department on Saturday announced that it has barred 11 blood banks in the state from conducting blood donation camps anywhere in the state till further orders The state health department had started an investigation against 11 blood banks accused of severe irregularities including illegally selling blood collected in West Bengal to other states âTill the time the investigation process in the matter is completed these 11 blood banks would be barred from organising blood donation camps anywhere in the stateâ said a West Bengal Health Department officialA notification on this count had also been issued by the West Bengal Health Department The bar on organising blood donation camps is applicable from August 1It is learnt that there are serious allegations of multiple irregularities against them including blood and plasma being unauthorisedly being sent to other states in exchange of moneyâCurrently an investigation against these 11 blood banks is being carried out by the State Blood Transfusion Board However the ban applies only to organising camps outside Blood sample collection or trading will continue within the institutionAgain that should be done only by skilled and trained staff following all the rules on this count In addition the state health department has asked the State Blood Transfusion Board to be alert of any major blood transaction anywhere in the stateâ the West Bengal Health Department official saidA few days ago officials from the West Bengal Health Department conducted search operations in connection with the investigation into irregularities in organising blood donation camps They raided several places in Kolkata and the district and monitored the situation thereSeveral important documents were also seized In view of that this time a ban has been imposed on these 11 blood banks from organising blood donation camps till further ordersAccording to sources some of these blood bank authorities did not even seek the necessary permission from the West Bengal Health Department to organise blood donation campsThere were also irregularities in blood collections Apart from that there were allegations that red blood cells and plasma were sent to other states on premium prices The officials concerned are investigating these allegations Until the investigation is completed no new camps can be organised IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-health-dept-bars-11-blood-banks-from-conducting-donation-camps-probe-on-into-irregularities-695167.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-lakshmi-yojana-will-empower-women-bjp-applicants-grateful-for-financial-security-695180.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS After Chief Minister Rekha Gupta launched the governments flagship Delhi Lakshmi Yojana on Saturday the BJP said that the scheme aims to empower womennbspThe women who got themselves registered on the first day expressed their gratitude to the government for providing financial securityThe portal for the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana under which eligible women will receive a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2500 went live on SaturdaySpeaking to IANS about the muchhyped scheme BJP MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat said Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was keen to introduce this scheme for women Earlier the government had already provided the Pink Pass for free travel in DTC buses and bicycles for Class 9 girls But this was an important scheme whose registration began from todayPrime Minister Narendra Modi always thinks about making women independent she addedDelhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa requested all eligible women to submit their applications at the earliestI also want to inform everyone that BJP MLAs have deployed additional staff at their constituency offices to assist women with the application process Eligible beneficiaries can also visit their local MLAs office to complete the registration and receive the monthly financial assistance of Rs 2500 under the scheme he told IANSEast Delhi District Magistrate Vadodaria Karanjit P said that so far more than 1000 registrations have been completed across the national capitalThe Chief Minister launched the portal this morning Registration camps have been set up at the district offices across all 13 districts where eligible beneficiaries can visit and complete their registration Apart from this beneficiaries can also register through their mobile phones or computers he saidInteracting with IANS a housewife praised the scheme saying Earlier we had to remain dependent on our husband but this scheme will make us financially independent and will enable us to fulfil our basic needs on our ownA senior citizen who registered herself said she will be happiest when the money actually comes into her accountA young woman was grateful to the government for considering womens financial freedomWith this amount we will be able to do something substantial she told IANSDelhi BJP MLAs also hailed the scheme referring to it as a longstanding demandBJP MLA Abhay Verma said This was a longstanding demand The Opposition also kept raising questions about it We had said that the scheme would be implemented at the appropriate time but they did not believe usOur intention was clear from the beginning We wanted to implement this scheme and we have now brought in a proper system to ensure that the maximum number of women can benefit from itBJP MLA Anil Goyal added Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had allocated approx Rs 5100 crore in the Budget for the Delhi Lakshmi Yojana During the election campaign Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised that women in Delhi would receive Rs 2500 per month This scheme fulfils that promise The financial assistance is being provided to economically weaker womenBJP MLA Ravi Kant echoed saying The Delhi Lakshmi Yojana will empower women and serve as an important step towards bringing prosperity The BJP government is continuously working towards womens empowermentIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-lakshmi-yojana-will-empower-women-bjp-applicants-grateful-for-financial-security-695180.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 17:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/alka-nangia-arora-takes-charge-as-controller-general-of-defence-accounts-695181.html New Delhi Aug 1 IANS Alka Nangia Arora a 1991batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service IDAS assumed charge as the Controller General of Defence Accounts CGDA on Saturday a Defence Ministry official saidAn alumnus of Garhwal University Dehradun and IIT Roorkee Arora has over three decades of extensive experience in defence financial management and public service said an official statementArora has tenanted key appointments in the Government of India including as Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser in the Department of Agricultural Research and Education DARE under the Ministry of Agriculture Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Micro Small ampamp Medium Enterprises Managing Director of Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India Limited and Additional Development Commissioner for Handicrafts under the Ministry of Textiles said the statementBringing over three decades of extensive experience in defence financial management and public service she has led several initiatives in promotion of handicrafts agricultural research procurement policy and public finance supported by advanced training from premier institutions including IIM Bangalore and ISB Mohali said the statementArora began her career in the Ministry of Defence at Dum Dum Ordnance Factory in Kolkata and since then has held key appointments in the Defence Accounts Department DAD it saidShe has served with all three armed forces including as FA to Admiral Superintendent of the Naval Dockyard ASD in Mumbai FA to the Army Eastern Command and head of the Area Accounts Office in Kolkata as IFA to the Western Air Command WAC and Army Hospital Research ampamp Referral AHRR and Principal IFA to the Air Force Headquarters said the statementShe has held the post of Additional and Special CGDA at the CGDA Headquarters steering policies concerning Audit IT ampamp Systems IFA ampamp Training it saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/alka-nangia-arora-takes-charge-as-controller-general-of-defence-accounts-695181.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 17:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/true-freedom-lies-in-nation-building-nsa-ajit-doval-urges-youth-to-ponder-lokmanya-tilaks-vision-695188.html Pune Aug 1 IANS National Security Advisor NSA Ajit Doval on Saturday cautioned youth against misinterpreting liberty as unrestrained personal choice urging them instead to align their individual ambitions with national interestnbspHe was speaking at the function organised by the Lokmanya Tilak Smarak Trust after receiving the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak Award from Union Home Minister Amit ShahHe noted Todays youth feel that freedom simply means doing whatever one wishes or pleases But freedom was never just thatAt a time when no one dared to raise a voice against British oppression Lokmanya Tilak chose the difficult path of struggle and led the nation Doval urged the younger generation to ponder Tilaks vision for nationbuilding emphasising that true freedom comes with the responsibility of safeguarding and developing the country Doval stressed the deeper essence of freedom and national buildingAddressing a gathering of leaders scholars and citizens NSA Ajit Doval reflected on the evolving definition of freedom across generations He noted that modern youth often equate freedom with absolute personal volitiona view he contrasted sharply with the sacrifices that secured Indias IndependenceToday is a truly special day It marks the death anniversary of Lokmanya Tilakan inspirational leader incredible freedom fighter thinker and guide of our independence movement said DovalRevisiting Tilaks historic declarationSwaraj is my birthright and I shall have itthe NSA reframed the iconic slogan to suit 21stcentury aspirationsIf Lokmanya Tilak were alive today he would surely say that we have achieved Swaraj and now making India strong and developed is our birthright Doval assertedHe highlighted that national progress requires shared commitment and disciplined sacrifice pointing out that actions detrimental to the nation ultimately harm every citizenDoval who spent a portion of his early school years in Pune shared nostalgic anecdotes of attending school assemblies and visiting the Chaturshringi Temple He expressed profound humility at receiving an award named after the legend whose story he first heard as a young student in the cityPaying tribute to Punes rich history Doval hailed the region as a land of legendary military commanders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Peshwa Bajirao Tanaji Malusare and Murarbaji Deshpande as well as visionaries like Gopal Krishna Gokhale Gopal Ganesh Agarkar Maharshi Karve and Senapati BapatTurning to national security Doval reminded the audience that India continues to face complex challenges from both internal and external quarters He called for complete unity across society to ensure the countrys security and progress Whatever is not in the national interest is not in our interest either Doval stressed urging all citizens and youth to take a collective pledge toward nationbuildingExpressing his gratitude after receiving the honour from Union Home Minister Amit Shah Ajit Doval shared a deeply personal and reflective address stating that he felt immensely humbled and honoured by the gestureReflecting on Tilaks commitment during times of crisis Doval pointed to the plague epidemic in Maharashtra During the plague epidemic Tilak lost his 21yearold son Vishwanath Yet he did not leave Pune and continued his dedicated social service Pune is a land of heroes and thinkers This land gave birth to the bravery of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Peshwa Bajirao Tanaji Malusare and Murarbaji Deshpande it also nurtured great minds like Maharshi Karve Gopal Krishna Gokhale Gopal Ganesh Agarkar and Senapati Bapat Tilak possessed valour steadfast resolve and deep respect for our culture and values He endured imprisonment but he never abandoned his social and national duties he addedHighlighting the shift from the preIndependence struggle to modern national progress Doval said When no one dared to step forward against British atrocities Tilak stepped up and declared Swaraj is my birthright If Lokmanya Tilak were alive today he would surely say that we have achieved Swaraj and now making India strong and developed is our birthrightSpeaking on national security and strategy the NSA called upon citizens to prioritize the country above all elseIf any action of ours harms the nation we must not walk that path Whatever is not in national interest cannot be in our interest either Even today the country faces various internal and external challenges In such times everyone must remain united and serve the nationToday an atmosphere exists where we can make India immensely powerful The country is progressing under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah I have closely witnessed Amit Shahs dedication and love for the country Ultimately the youth of this era must contribute to building the nation Doval concluded urging attendees to resolve toward national serviceI feel a sense of great humility standing on this stage I extend my sincere gratitude to the Honourable Home Minister Chief Minister Deputy Chief Minister and everyone who spoke about me I bow to the warmth and perception you hold of me Words fall short to express my gratitude said DovalIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/true-freedom-lies-in-nation-building-nsa-ajit-doval-urges-youth-to-ponder-lokmanya-tilaks-vision-695188.html Sat, 01 Aug 2026 17:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-adjourned-till-monday-registration-of-births-and-deaths-amendment-bill-cleared-695043.html New Delhi July 31 IANS The Lok Sabha cleared the Registration of Births and Deaths Amendment Bill on Friday amid noisy protests and constant sloganeering by the OppositionnbspThe Bill presented by the Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai was passed through voice vote amid intense chaos and ruckus as the Opposition Benches amped up pressure on the NDA government for a debate on the Ram Temple donation theft controversy and also chanted slogans demanding accountability from Home Minister Amit Shah over alleged police brutality during the students stir in the national Capital over the NEET paper leakWhile the Chair made repeated requests for smooth functioning of the House the Opposition members trooped into the Well of the House raising slogans and waving placards Sadan mein aao Come to Parliament chants reverberated in the House even as Dilip Saikia presiding over the House proceedings sought to conduct the legislative businessWhen the House reconvened at 12 noon many members made their submissionsNityanand Rai sought the Houses consent for the Births and Deaths Amendment Bill and it was passed within minutes without any discussion amid the dinThe Bill provides that if a birth or death is reported to the Registrar more than one year but within two years after its occurrence it may be registered only with the approval of the District Magistrate SDM or Executive Magistrate authorised by the District Magistrate The amendments have been brought to make provisions for delayed registration more stringent and to encourage timely reporting of births and deathsParliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stood up to denounce the Oppositions conduct cautioning them against disruptive tactics when Bills of national importance are being brought in the HouseHe claimed that this was discussed and agreed upon in the Business Advisory Committee BSC the body that decides the House agenda and yet the Opposition chose to disrupt rather than discuss the key legislationTerming it sad and unfortunate Rijiju told the Opposition Benches People have sent you to the Parliament for discussing and deliberating on key legislative issues and framing laws You dont engage in discussion on legislation then go in public claiming that the government is bulldozing the Bill through the HouseThis is not correct you should participate in discussion he addedDilip Saikia seconding Rijijus advice said that such conduct will set a bad precedent before the nation and urged the members for constructive dialogue and engagementAs the ruckus persisted the Chair adjourned the House till Monday morningIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-adjourned-till-monday-registration-of-births-and-deaths-amendment-bill-cleared-695043.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-sentences-railway-goods-clerk-to-four-years-in-jail-in-bribery-case-695045.html Lucknow July 31 IANS A special CBI court in Lucknow has convicted and sentenced Durgesh Bahadur Singh then posted as Goods Clerk at Dariyapur Junction Railway Station in Uttar Pradeshs Raebareli district to four years imprisonment in a bribery case an official statement said on FridaynbspThe sentence was pronounced on July 30 Besides the jail term the court also imposed a fine of Rs 10000 on the accusedAccording to the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI the case was registered on October 13 2017 following a complaint by the Director of Ms RD Cement Industries Pvt Ltd LucknowThe complainant alleged that Singh had demanded a bribe of Rs 60000 in return for substantially reducing a demurrage charge of Rs 126 lakh levied on the company The charge had been imposed after the firm failed to unload raw materials from a railway rake within the stipulated timeDuring negotiations the accused allegedly agreed to accept the revised demurrage amount of Rs 37800 and an illegal gratification of Rs 7200 from the complainantActing on the complaint the CBI laid a trap and caught Singh redhanded while accepting the bribe amount of Rs 7200Following the investigation the agency filed a charge sheet against the accused public servant on November 30 2017After examining the evidence and concluding the trial the CBI court found the accused guilty and sentenced him accordingly the agency saidIt said it actively pursues corruption charges and takes them to logical conclusionsnbspRecently the CBI arrested an Assistant Engineer AE of Delhis Public Works Department PWD along with a representative of a private construction firm and one of the firms employees in connection with a bribery racket involving the execution of a government construction projectJust a week ago the CBI arrested a Senior Divisional Materials Manager Sr DMM of the North Eastern Railway NER in Varanasi for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 170 lakhIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-sentences-railway-goods-clerk-to-four-years-in-jail-in-bribery-case-695045.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-issues-notice-on-umar-khalids-bail-plea-in-2020-riots-conspiracy-case-695046.html New Delhi July 31 IANS The Delhi High Court on Friday issued notice to the Delhi Police on jailed former JNU student Umar Khalids regular bail plea in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots larger conspiracy case and sought its responsenbspA Division Bench of Justices Prathiba M Singh and Vikas Mahajan also issued notice on Khalids plea seeking interim bail and posted it along with the regular bail plea of coaccused Sharjeel Imam for further hearing on August 27nbspKhalid has challenged the Karkardooma Courts order refusing him regular bail in the case registered under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act UAPA and other penal provisionsnbspDuring the hearing senior advocate Trideep Pais appearing for Khalid submitted that apart from challenging the trial courts order refusing him regular bail Khalid had also sought interim bail on the ground that the Supreme Court has referred to a larger Bench the question relating to the grant of bail in UAPA cases where there is prolonged incarceration and delay in trialnbspPais argued that pending a decision by the larger Bench Khalid should be released on interim bailnbspEarlier this month Additional Sessions Judge Sameer Bajpai of the Karkardooma Court dismissed the regular bail pleas of Khalid and Imam holding that the trial court was bound by the Supreme Courts January 5 order declining them bail and that their fresh applications were not maintainablenbspThe trial court had said that the apex court had made it clear that the two accused would be at liberty to renew their prayer for bail only after the examination of the protected witnesses relied upon by the prosecution or on the expiry of one year from its January 5 order whichever was earliernbspThe Court has no option but to follow the judgment dated January 5 2026 as passed by the Supreme Court whereby the petitions of both the applicants were dismissed the trial court had saidnbspIt further held that in view of the Supreme Courts directions it could not entertain the fresh bail applications and grant relief to the applicantsnbspDuring the proceedings before the trial court the defence had argued that there had been a change in circumstances after the Supreme Courts January 5 judgment refusing bail It relied on the apex courts subsequent order granting six months interim bail to coaccused Tasleem Ahmed and Khalid Saifi after referring to a larger Bench the question of whether prolonged incarceration and delay in trial can justify the grant of bail despite the restrictions under Section 43D5 of the UAPAnbspThe prosecution opposed the pleas contending that there had been no substantial change in circumstances warranting reconsideration of the issue and that the Supreme Court had already rejected the bail petitions of both applicantsnbspThe case relates to the alleged larger conspiracy behind the communal violence that broke out in northeast Delhi in February 2020nbspKhalid and Imam are among several accused booked under the UAPA and other penal provisionsnbspEarlier this year the Supreme Court dismissed the bail pleas of Khalid and Imam holding that the prosecution material disclosed prima facie grounds attracting the statutory embargo on the grant of bail under Section 43D5 of the UAPA while granting bail to five coaccused Gulfisha Fatima Meeran Haider Shifa Ur Rehman Mohd Saleem Khan and Shadab AhmednbspMore recently the apex court granted six months interim bail to coaccused Tasleem Ahmed and Khalid Saifi while referring to a larger Bench the question of whether prolonged incarceration and delay in trial can justify the grant of bail despite the restrictions under Section 43D5 of the UAPAnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-issues-notice-on-umar-khalids-bail-plea-in-2020-riots-conspiracy-case-695046.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jk-students-association-writes-to-lop-gandhi-to-raise-uts-recruitment-scams-paper-leaks-in-parliament-695047.html Srinagar July 31 IANS JampampK Students Association JKSA said on Friday that it has written to the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi to raise Jammu and Kashmirs alleged recruitment scams paper leaks and institutional failures in the ParliamentnbspNasir Kheuhami national convenor of JKSA said they have written to LoP Rahul Gandhi urging him to raise in Parliament the continuing recruitment scams examination irregularities paper leaks tendering controversies outsourcing concerns and institutional failures that have plagued public recruitment in Jammu ampamp Kashmir over the past several yearsIn its letter to LoP Gandhi the Association expressed anguish over the persistent allegations of recruitment scams paper leaks procedural lapses outsourcing controversies and institutional failures that have repeatedly undermined the integrity of public recruitment in the Union TerritoryNasir Khuehami said these recurring controversies have severely eroded public confidence in the recruitment system undermined the principles of fairness and merit and shattered the aspirations of thousands of deserving candidatesFor educated youth in JampampK government employment is not merely a career opportunity but a source of livelihood dignity and social security Unfortunately repeated allegations of scams corruption manipulation paper leaks opaque tendering and administrative failures have devastated the aspirations of an entire generation and weakened faith in public institutions he saidThe Association described the recruitment of 1200 SubInspectors in the Jammu ampamp Kashmir Police as the most glaring example of institutional failure It recalled that the Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board JKSSB issued Advertisement Notification No 06 of 2021 and conducted the examination in March 2022However after the results were declared widespread allegations of manipulation abnormal selection patterns and irregularities surfaced Following public outrage the matter was referred to the CBI which allegedly uncovered a conspiracy involving officials intermediaries and beneficiary candidatesThe investigation alleged that candidates paid between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 30 lakh to secure selection leading to chargesheets against 33 accused and the eventual cancellation of the entire recruitment process Khuehami said that despite nearly four years having passed since the investigation began aspirants continue to await its logical conclusionWhile chargesheets have been filed and trials are underway there has been no comprehensive disclosure regarding institutional accountability departmental action against responsible officials or systemic reforms to prevent similar incidents Justice delayed has effectively become justice denied for thousands of deserving aspirants he saidThe Association also expressed concern over JKSSBs decision to award the contract for the fresh SubInspector recruitment examination to Aptech Limited despite widespread objections from aspirantsIt noted that in April 2023 the Ministry of Home Affairs directed the Lieutenant Governors Administration to constitute a HighLevel Committee under the then Additional Chief Secretary Home Raj Kumar Goyal to examine the tendering process and the award of the contractAlthough the matter came under the scrutiny of the High Court of Jammu ampamp Kashmir and Ladakh the committees report has still not been made public raising serious concerns about transparency and accountabilityThe Association stressed that the JKPSI controversy was not an isolated incident Between 2019 and 2026 several recruitment examinations conducted by JKSSB and other recruiting agencies were marred by allegations of paper leaks procedural violations manipulation and a lack of transparencyIt cited the Finance Accounts Assistant FAA recruitment which was eventually scrapped following allegations of irregularities However those responsible were never publicly identified or held accountableSimilarly the Junior Engineer Civil recruitment witnessed prolonged protests over answer key discrepancies evaluation concerns and a lack of transparency before it too was cancelled without any meaningful accountabilityThe Association also referred to the Fire and Emergency Services recruitment where candidates alleged that question papers had been leaked and sold before the examinationIt further noted that several other recruitment processes involving departmental technical and engineering posts were challenged over procedural irregularities opaque evaluation mechanisms delays and deficiencies in examination administration with many cases reaching the High CourtThe Association expressed grave concern over the continued outsourcing of recruitment examinations to private agencies despite repeated public objections regarding their credibilityIt said the absence of transparent due diligence and public disclosure in the tendering process has generated widespread distrust among aspirants Highlighting the cumulative impact of these recurring controversies JKSA said thousands of deserving candidates have suffered immense academic financial and psychological hardshipMany have exhausted years of eligibility while recruitment processes remained entangled in investigations litigation and administrative delays while their families have borne enormous financial burdens only to witness repeated cancellations and prolonged uncertaintyThe Association further said that following the constitutional changes of August 2019 the youth of JampampK were promised transparent meritbased and accountable governance Instead they have repeatedly faced recruitment scams paper leaks cancelled examinations prolonged investigations and delayed justice These recurring failures it said have eroded public trust and caused severe psychological economic and professional hardship to an entire generation of young job seekersStating that the aspirations of an entire generation cannot become collateral damage of administrative failures the Association urged LoP Gandhi to raise the matter comprehensively in Parliament and seek an explanation from the Government of India regarding the repeated recruitment controversies examination cancellations paper leaks and irregularities in major recruitment processes including those for the Jammu ampamp Kashmir Police SubInspector JKPSI Finance Accounts Assistant FAA Junior Engineer Civil Fire ampamp Emergency Services and several other JKSSB examinationsThe Association further urged him to seek details of the reforms introduced to restore public confidence in the recruitment system and to call for the establishment of an independent oversight mechanism to ensure transparent fair meritbased and accountable recruitment in the futureIt also sought clarity on the status of the CBI investigation and departmental proceedings in the JKPSI scam the continued nondisclosure of the HighLevel Committees report on the Aptech tender the action taken against officials and agencies responsible for procedural lapses the safeguards introduced to prevent future paper leaks and the rationale for continuing to entrust recruitment examinations to agencies that have faced serious public scrutinyIt expressed hope that LoP Gandhi would raise the issue forcefully in Parliament and seek a comprehensive statement from the Government to ensure justice for every deserving aspirant whose future has been adversely affected by these recurring recruitment controversies and institutional failuresIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jk-students-association-writes-to-lop-gandhi-to-raise-uts-recruitment-scams-paper-leaks-in-parliament-695047.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/without-ethanol-blending-petrol-price-could-have-hit-rs-125-per-litre-govt-695048.html New Delhi July 31 IANS Petrol prices in Delhi would have risen to around Rs 125 per litre during the recent West Asian crisis without ethanol blending the government said on Friday claiming the programme helped consumers save nearly Rs 30 per litre by cushioning the impact of the global crude oil price surgenbspAccording to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas when the Indian crude basket climbed to around 135 per barrel during the crisis petrol without ethanol blending was projected to retail at about Rs 125 per litre in the national capitalHowever consumers paid Rs 9477 per litre as 20 per cent of every litre comprised domestically produced ethanol procured at stable preagreed pricesThe ministry said the savings demonstrated the role of ethanol blending in strengthening Indias energy security while reducing dependence on imported crude oil and keeping a larger share of the countrys fuel expenditure within the domestic economyIt stressed that the Ethanol Blended Petrol EBP Programme balances food security farmer welfare and energy security Only surplus grain certified by the Department of Food and Public Distribution after meeting all food security obligations is approved for ethanol production it saidThe government added that grain procured under the Public Distribution System the National Food Security Act welfare schemes and mandatory buffer stock requirements is not diverted for ethanol production before food security needs are metnbspIt also noted that damaged grain broken rice and foodgrain unfit for human consumption are utilised under the programmeAccording to the ministry the EBP Programme has so far helped India save more than Rs 197 lakh crore in foreign exchange by reducing crude oil imports while cutting over 950 lakh metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissionsIt has also resulted in payments of more than Rs 166 lakh crore to farmers and distillers creating a stable domestic market for agricultural produceThe ministry said ethanol blending is intended to reduce Indias dependence on imported crude oil which still accounts for nearly 88 per cent of the countrys oil requirement and acts as an insurance policy against global oil price shocksIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/without-ethanol-blending-petrol-price-could-have-hit-rs-125-per-litre-govt-695048.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/maharashtra-cyber-police-register-fir-over-ai-generated-videos-targeting-pm-modi-piyush-goyal-695049.html Mumbai July 31 IANS Maharashtra Cyber Police have registered an FIR regarding the circulation of allegedly AIgenerated and morphed videos of Union Minister Piyush Goyal and objectionable content targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi The action was initiated following a complaint filed by a BJP social media officebearerAccording to officials the Maharashtra Nodal Cyber Police have registered a case against unidentified individuals and launched an investigation into the matter The FIR has been filed under Sections 3182 336 352 3531 3532 3561 and 3562 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS along with Sections 66D and 67 of the Information Technology ActThe complainant alleged that during recent student protests morphed or AIgenerated videos of Union Minister Piyush Goyal were circulated through various social media accounts He further claimed that objectionable content targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also shared onlineAccording to the complaint a video was posted from a Facebook account named Maharashtra Dharma with a caption claiming that Piyush Goyal had spoken about publicly hanging the protesters referring to them as cockroachesThe complainant alleged that the minister appeared to be making objectionable remarks in the circulated clip However after comparing it with the original video released by a news agency he concluded that the video had allegedly been digitally manipulated or created using artificial intelligenceThe complainant also highlighted several other social media posts including an allegedly morphed image of Prime Minister Modi shared through a Facebook account an objectionable video circulated on Instagram and another video containing abusive language directed at the Prime MinisterAccording to the complaint the content was circulated with the intention of spreading misinformation provoking public discontent and insulting individuals holding constitutional positionsPolice officials said efforts are underway to identify and trace the operators of the social media accounts involved Further investigation into the case is in progressIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/maharashtra-cyber-police-register-fir-over-ai-generated-videos-targeting-pm-modi-piyush-goyal-695049.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-stays-senthil-balajis-arrest-asks-him-to-cooperate-with-tasmac-probe-695064.html New Delhi July 31 DMK MLA and former Tamil Nadu Minister V Senthil Balaji on Friday secured interim protection from arrest from the Supreme Court in the Directorate of Vigilance and AntiCorruption DVAC case alleging largescale corruption in the functioning of the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation TASMAC A bench headed by Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant issued notice on Balajis special leave petition SLP challenging the Madras High Courts refusal to grant him anticipatory bail Subject to Balaji joining and fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation the bench ordered that his arrest will remain stayed till further orders The apex court also directed Balaji to deposit his passport with the investigating officer cooperate fully with the probe and ensure that no witnesses are influenced during the pendency of the proceedings The matter has been posted for further hearing after three weeks Earlier in the day Justice V Mohana recused herself from hearing the matter following which CJI Surya Kant informed the parties that the case would be taken up by a Bench comprising himself and Justice Joymalya Bagchi later in the day owing to its urgency When the matter was taken up subsequently senior advocate Guru Krishnakumar appearing for the Tamil Nadu government opposed the grant of anticipatory bail contending that the allegations related to a serious corruption case involving hundreds of crores of rupees He argued that there was a risk of evidence being destroyed and referred to Balajis criminal antecedents submitting that he should not be granted blanket protection from arrest Responding to the submissions the bench remarked that the investigation should proceed independently and said If he is guilty he will have to face consequences When the state government expressed apprehension that custodial interrogation might become necessary during the course of the investigation Justice Bagchi observed that the top court would ensure Balajis participation in the probe and that he would not interfere with the investigation If there is any breach or any perception of breach come to us he told the Tamil Nadu government On Thursday Balaji had approached the Supreme Court challenging the Madras High Courts order rejecting his anticipatory bail plea in the DVAC case Senior advocate Kapil Sibal had on Thursday mentioned Balajis special leave petition SLP for urgent listing before the CJIled Bench The apex court agreed to list the matter for hearing on Friday subject to removal of defects if any Balaji moved the apex court after the Madras High Court declined to grant him prearrest bail in the DVAC case alleging largescale corruption in the functioning of TASMAC Dismissing the anticipatory bail plea the Madras High Court had held that the nature of the allegations warranted custodial interrogation and observed that the case involved serious charges of largescale corruption A singlejudge Bench of Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan had also taken note of the prosecutions contention that the accused allegedly abused their official positions entered into a criminal conspiracy and caused substantial financial loss to the state exchequer The case stems from an FIR registered by the DVAC on July 28 against Balaji and several others over alleged irregularities in TASMAC between 2021 and 2025 when he served as Minister for Electricity Prohibition and Excise in the MK Stalinled DMK government According to the prosecution Balaji conspired with several others including private individuals distillery and brewery companies transport contractors bottling firms and unidentified TASMAC officials to manipulate official processes misappropriate public funds and facilitate the laundering of illicit money causing substantial losses to the state Seeking anticipatory bail before the Madras High Court Balaji denied the allegations contending that the FIR was based on vague and omnibus accusations without identifying any specific tender contract or transaction linking him to the alleged offences He also claimed that the case was politically motivated and registered due to hostility from the ruling party following the Karur stampede controversy However the High Court held that the gravity of the allegations and the need for a thorough investigation outweighed the grounds urged by the defence and concluded that custodial interrogation was necessary to ascertain the alleged conspiracy and financial irregularities IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-stays-senthil-balajis-arrest-asks-him-to-cooperate-with-tasmac-probe-695064.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-grants-conditional-bail-to-suspended-ias-officer-vinay-chaubey-in-jharkhand-land-scam-695067.html New Delhi July 31 The Supreme Court on Friday granted conditional bail to suspended Jharkhand IAS officer Vinay Kumar Chaubey in the highprofile Hazaribagh land scam case The relief by a bench of Justices Arvind Kumar and Vipul M Pancholi has paved the way for his release from jail after over 13 monthsThe apex court however imposed several conditions Chaubey has been directed not to leave the country without prior permission to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and not to influence or contact any witness connected with the caseThe top court further said that if any of the bail conditions are violated the state government would be free to approach the competent court seeking cancellationChaubey had approached the Supreme Court after the Jharkhand High Court rejected his bail pleaDuring the hearing his counsel argued that he had been in custody since November 2025 in connection with the case and that coaccused Vinay Singh and his wife Snigdha Singh had already been granted bailOpposing the plea the state government contended that Chaubey being a former senior bureaucrat could influence witnesses if releasedAfter considering submissions from both sides the court allowed the bail application with conditions imposedThe Hazaribagh land scam took place when Chaubey was posted there as Deputy CommissionerAccording to an FIR registered by the AntiCorruption Bureau ACB official records relating to forest land and Khas Mahal land were allegedly manipulated to alter their nature following which the properties were transferred to private individuals using forged documentsThe ACB has registered a case naming 73 accused including Chaubey The agency is investigating alleged financial transactions land transfers and changes made to government land recordsChaubey is also an accused in the Jharkhand liquor scam He was arrested by the ACB in the liquor scam case on May 20 2025 after nearly six hours of questioningRecently he secured bail from a special ACB court in the liquor scam case as the charge sheet was not filed within the prescribed 92day period following his arrestHowever he remained in jail due to the separate FIR lodged in the Hazaribagh land scam caseA senior bureaucrat Chaubey has held several key positions in the Jharkhand government including Secretary of the Excise Department and Secretary to the Chief MinisterThe ACB is investigating both liquor and land scam cases currently IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-grants-conditional-bail-to-suspended-ias-officer-vinay-chaubey-in-jharkhand-land-scam-695067.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-hc-constitutes-25-benches-as-all-39-judges-shift-to-jaipur-for-three-day-conference-695068.html Jaipur July 31 In a rare administrative arrangement all 39 judges of the Rajasthan High Court from both the Principal Seat at Jodhpur and the Jaipur Bench will hear cases from Jaipur on Friday For the days proceedings the High Court has constituted four larger benches six division benches and fifteen single benches Cases pertaining to the Jodhpur Principal Seat will be heard through video conferencing VCThe special arrangement has been made as all judges will remain in Jaipur for the next three days to participate in an international conference on peace mediation and the rule of law commencing on Friday evening Hosted by the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority the conference will bring together several luminaries including judges senior advocates mediators scholars and policymakers from Commonwealth countriesUnder the roster one larger bench three division benches and four single benches will hear matters relating to the Jodhpur Principal Seat through video conferencingFor cases filed before the Jaipur Bench three larger benches three division benches and eleven single benches have been constituted The arrangement is expected to ensure that judicial work continues uninterrupted despite all judges being stationed in JaipurThe larger benches are scheduled to hear several significant legal issues including whether cases involving senior citizens women children and persons with disabilities should be accorded priority in hearing petitions pending since 1989 filed by Acharya Dharmendra and others concerning the installation of a statue of Manu within the Jaipur Bench premises of the Rajasthan High Court legal issues relating to the eligibility of convicts serving sentences in cases under the POCSO Act and for the rape of minors for transfer to open prisonsSeveral of these matters involve substantial questions of law and the decisions of the larger benches are expected to provide authoritative interpretations that may guide the adjudication of similar cases in the futureThe special sitting assumes significance from both judicial and administrative perspectives as it enables the High Court to continue regular proceedings while all judges attend the threeday international conference in Jaipur IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajasthan-hc-constitutes-25-benches-as-all-39-judges-shift-to-jaipur-for-three-day-conference-695068.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ladakh-to-hold-nations-first-black-necked-crane-festival--695073.html Srinagar July 31 As part of the administrationâs efforts to preserve and protect the rich and unparalleled natural heritage of the Ladakh region Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Friday announced the nationâs first blacknecked crane festival from August 11 to August 14 in the union territory Lt Governor Saxena said on X today âThe Nations First BlackNecked Crane Festival is a celebration of Ladakhs unparalleled natural heritage and our collective commitment to wildlife conservation From 1114 August 2026 join us in Leh Tso Kar and Hanle for an extraordinary journey of conservation culture birdwatching and community engagement dedicated to protecting the worlds only alpine craneâTogether let us safeguard these sacred wings and preserve Ladakhs pristine ecosystems for future generationsâ he saidThe Blacknecked Crane is deeply connected to Ladakh as its designated state bird an iconic summer breeding visitor and a sacred symbol of good luck in local cultureLadakh is the only region in India where these rare birds successfully breed These arrive in Ladakh in March and April to breed in the highaltitude marshes wetlands and lakes of the Changthang region such as Tso Kar Tso Moriri and HanleThese birds build their nests in shallow wetland waters about 30 cm deep to protect eggs from predators The threats faced by this rare bird species are due to environmental pressures caused by feral dogs overgrazing by livestock and tourist disruptions during breeding monthsLocals call these birds âcha thungthungâ They are viewed as sacred harbingers of prosperity and good fortuneAs per folklore sighting a pair of these birds is considered luckyTheir striking courtship and mating dances have directly inspired traditional Ladakhi folk performances like the Chartses danceThese birds and the effort to protect them are celebrated through regional initiatives like Ladakhs dedicated BlackNecked Crane Festival to raise awareness for protecting their fragile nesting grounds IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ladakh-to-hold-nations-first-black-necked-crane-festival--695073.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cauvery-dispute-kannada-outfits-call-ktaka-bandh-on-august-13-against-tn-water-release-order-695078.html Bengaluru July 31 Veteran Kannada activist Vatal Nagaraj on Friday announced a statewide Karnataka bandh on August 13 from 6 am to 6 pm in protest against the direction to release Cauvery water from Karnatakas reservoirs to Tamil Nadu Addressing the media after a meeting of proKannada organisations along with prominent leaders in Bengaluru Vatal Nagaraj said the bandh would be observed across the state from Belagavi to Karwar and from Mangaluru to Kolar and appealed to citizens not to oppose the shutdownThe bandh will be observed from 6 am to 6 pm across Karnataka This protest is for the farmers and for protecting the states drinking water interests If water is released to Tamil Nadu Bengaluru and several parts of Karnataka could face a drinking water crisis he saidVatal Nagaraj claimed that a wide range of organisations including farmer groups student bodies labour unions womens organisations and government employees associations have extended support to the bandh callAccording to him the bandh has also received backing from the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce with its president and senior actor Jayamala expressing support for the protest Hotel associations truck and auto owners associations corporation employees and various transport sector organisations are also expected to participateHe further said malls theatres and cab aggregator services are likely to remain shut during the bandh while discussions would be held with employees unions of staterun transport corporations to garner their supportNothing would come out of the allparty meeting called by Chief Minister Shivakumar The allparty meeting is being held for the sake of it Farmers and Kannada activists are not invited for the meeting he said We will also lay siege to the airport he said However emergency services wont be harmed he clarifiedThe bandh call comes amid escalating tensions over the Cauvery watersharing dispute with political parties farmer organisations and proKannada groups intensifying their opposition to the Cauvery Water Management Authoritys CWMA directions on water releaseThe Karnataka government has maintained that the state is facing a potential drinking water shortage and has convened an allparty meeting on August 2 to discuss the Cauvery issue and formulate a unified responseWith several organisations reportedly extending support the proposed bandh is likely to have a significant impact across Karnataka if it goes ahead as plannedThe Cauvery Water Regulation Committee CWRC directed Karnataka to release water to Tamil Nadu at a rate of 3500 cusecs per day for 15 days from July 29 however Karnataka facing drought has filed an appeal against the CWRCâs order before the CWMA In a setback to Karnataka the Cauvery Water Management Authority CWMA which met in Delhi on Thursday upheld the Cauvery Water Regulation Committeeâs CWRC order that Karnataka should release water to Tamil Nadu at a rate of 3500 cusecs a day for 15 days IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cauvery-dispute-kannada-outfits-call-ktaka-bandh-on-august-13-against-tn-water-release-order-695078.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/another-fund-scam-jolts-cpi-695082.html Kannur July 31 The Kerala CPIM has been rocked by yet another financial scandal this time from its ideological and organisational nerve centre Kannur Allegations that nearly Rs 1 crore collected for a memorial building in the name of late former State Secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan remains unaccounted for have triggered fresh turmoil within the party exposing deepening fissures in what has long been regarded as the CPIMs most impregnable fortressThe controversy comes close on the heels of unresolved allegations over party fund collections in Payyannur suggesting that financial irregularities are no longer isolated incidents but a recurring challenge confronting the Kannur unitKannur occupies a unique place in the CPIMIt is the home district of many of the partys most influential leaders in Kerala including former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan MV Govindan senior leaders P Jayarajan EP Jayarajan and MV Jayarajan besides former Health Minister KK ShailajaThe emergence of repeated financial controversies from a district that has traditionally projected itself as the partys organisational model has therefore become a source of considerable embarrassment for the leadershipThe latest allegations centre on the purchase of land and a building for a proposed local committee office to be named after Kodiyeri BalakrishnanThe property bought for around Rs 70 lakh was allegedly registered in the name of the then local secretary instead of the party in violation of organisational normsIt is further alleged that the property was subsequently mortgaged to raise Rs 30 lakh while another Rs 20 lakh was borrowed from party workers and employees of cooperative institutionsFundraising drives including public exhibitions and coupon sales reportedly generated substantial collections but no comprehensive accounts were placed before party committeesFollowing mounting pressure from grassroots workers the party removed the local secretary and ordered an internal enquiryThe former officebearer has reportedly maintained that every major decision was taken with the knowledge of the leadership a claim that has intensified demands for accountability beyond the local levelWith successive fund controversies surfacing from Kannur the district that has long been the CPIMs political showcase now finds itself confronting uncomfortable questions over transparency internal oversight and organisational discipline IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/another-fund-scam-jolts-cpi-695082.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sfj-bhatti-nexus-aims-to-provoke-police-action-fuel-anti-india-narrative-globally-695084.html New Delhi July 31 There is a new headache for the Indian security agencies as it has been noticed in recent weeks that foreign networks are using the online space to instigate some youth in the country Multiple foreign networks have been working in tandem to run a massive propaganda campaign in a bid to instigate the youth into indulging in violence An Intelligence Bureau official said that these foreign networks working for the ISI have been told to join hands to carry out this major operation The official said that the latest development would indicate that the ISI has told the Sikhs for Justice and the Shahzad Bhatti network to work in tandem in a bid to incite violence in the countryCurrently the targets are those with criminal backgrounds They are paid a good sum of money to undertake the job the official said Their brief is to infiltrate protests or demonstrations and incite violence The aim is to ensure a strong police response against the demonstrators and make this a global issue Once these elements manage to elicit a strong police response the visuals are captured and then circulated across the globe in large numbers the official addedThe idea is to malign the image of the country by showing to the world that the police have been given a free hand to act against protesters by using excessive force Another official said that the biggest problem is recruiting persons with criminal backgrounds These elements are used to carry out violence and crimes They can very easily incite violence and rile up the police as they are experts in doing soThese networks would also be looking for persons who have been booked previously for rioting or indulging in communal violence These are the perfect candidates for the SFJ or Bhatti network as such candidates have prior hand experience in inciting violence the official also addedThe agencies have learnt that these networks are primarily operating from North America and Europe Officials say that it is not just the recruitment that is worrying Apart from this these networks have even instructed their people to flood the internet with propaganda material particularly videos on channels such as YouTube This is an ongoing process for the agencies an official explainedVideos with false narratives are being circulated in large numbers Such videos and fake claims by Pakistani accounts only went up after Operation Sindoor as they wanted to cover the losses they faced at the hands of the Indian armed forces These networks run by the ISI have been routing funds to the recruits through hawala channelsAlso on the watch of the Indian agencies are the fake charities across the country These charities too have been instructed to distribute the money to the recruits What has also caught the attention of the Indian agencies is that such campaigns are not being pushed in a rushIt is a systematic campaign to change the discourse and narrative in the country gradually The ultimate goal however is to incite violence and force the police to commit excesses Any major action by the police tends to become an international issue These elements want such issues to be highlighted by the foreign media and ultimately run a narrative that India is a police state an official added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sfj-bhatti-nexus-aims-to-provoke-police-action-fuel-anti-india-narrative-globally-695084.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ktr-appears-before-court-in-formula-e-car-race-case-695088.html Hyderabad July 31 Bharat Rashtra Samithi BRS working president KT Rama Rao on Friday appeared before the special ACB Court here in the Formula Ecar race case Rama Rao and other accused in the case personally appeared in the court in response to the summons issued in MayIndian Administrative Service officer Arvind Kumar and former Chief Engineer of the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority BLN Reddy also appeared before the courtKTR and others paid sureties of Rs 1 lakh each and completed other formalities The court later adjourned the hearing in the case to August 25Former Ministers Sabita Indra Reddy Mahmood Ali MLA Kaushik Reddy BRS leader Praveen Kumar and several other party leaders and a large number of party workers also reached Nampally Court Complex to show solidarity with KTRAccording to the chargesheet filed by the AntiCorruption Bureau ACB in March 2026 around Rs 55 crore was allegedly transferred to a foreign firm in violation of norms during the 2023 Formula E car race in HyderabadKTR has been named accused number one in the case relating to the alleged misappropriation of public funds for conducting the Formula E race in Hyderabad during the BRS ruleThe ACB questioned KTR Arvind Kumar and BLN Reddy multiple times in the caseThe former minister who was questioned by the ACB four times dismissed the Formula E case as a âbogus caseâIn November last year then Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma gave his nod to prosecute KT Rama Rao in the Formula E race caseIn September the ACB submitted its report and through the state government sought the Governorâs sanction to prosecute KT Rama Rao Arvind Kumar and othersAfter nine months of an investigation into the alleged irregularities in hosting the Formula E race in Hyderabad the ACB submitted its report to the governmentThe BRS leader has been accused of receiving Rs 44 crore in the form of an electoral bond from a sponsorship company in exchange for granting it the right to organise the raceThe ACB in December 2024 booked a case against KTR former Special Chief Secretary Municipal Administration and Urban Development Arvind Kumar and Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority former Chief Engineer BL N Reddy for alleged irregularities of Rs 5488 crore in the Formula E dealAfter the Governor permitted the probe an FIR was registered on a complaint by Principal Secretary Municipal Administration and Urban Development M Dana Kishore who stated that foreign remittances were made without prior approvals from the relevant regulatory authorities resulting in an additional tax burden on the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority to the tune of Rs 806 crore IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ktr-appears-before-court-in-formula-e-car-race-case-695088.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 16:45:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-govt-to-open-applications-for-2nd-mental-health-fellows-cohort-in-august-695091.html DW Bureau Chandigarh Reinforcing its commitment to tackling drug addiction through a comprehensive approach the Punjab government launched Indias first fellowship against substance abuse the Leadership in Mental Health Programme LMHP in February 2026 Thirteen fellows from the first cohort of the programme are now working across Punjab to strengthen mental healthcare servicesnbspLMHP fellows work across the state under the Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mannled Yudh Nashean Virudh initiative supporting healthcare services and integrating a health and communityfirst perspective in the states fight against drugs This marks a significant milestone in strengthening the states mental healthcare system and ensuring that rehabilitation remains at the heart of Punjabs fight against substance abuseNow the Punjab Government plans to roll out applications for the second cohort of the programme 10 fellows and seven Senior Associates to create a robust statewide network of trained young professionals covering all 23 districtsOperating under the purview of the Department of Health and Family Welfare in close collaboration with states Data Intelligence and Technical Support Unit LMHP is building a team of skilled mental health leaders who can drive evidencebased prevention and rehabilitation activities across the state LMHP fellows are professionals from diverse backgrounds includingnbsp nbsppsychology public health and social work who have committed to supporting the states antidrug campaign for a period of two years Selected through a rigorous selection process the Fellowsnbsp undergo intensive training in psychosocial interventions relapse prevention programme management communitybased rehabilitation and leadership skills The training is deliverednbsp with the support of Tata Institute of Social Sciences TISS Mumbai the programmes selectioncumknowledge partnernbspHealth Minister Dr Balbir Singh said that the programme focuses on combining leadership with empathy to restore families and hope across the state He added Yudh Nashean Virudh is not just an initiative against drugs it is a movement to reclaim Punjabs youth While strict action is being taken against drug peddlers and traffickers we are equally committed to helping every victim of drug abuse return to a life full of dignity and prevent the youth from falling into the trap of addictionnbsp Leadership in Mental Health Programme reflects our belief that making Punjab addictionfree is possible only when enforcement treatment and prevention work handinhand and backed by strong healthcare setup and community supportHe further highlighted that addiction is a chronic health issue that demands sustained care These fellows during their tenure at various district hospitals and deaddiction and rehabilitation centres gain handson experience in addressing substanceuse as a social issue not just an individual ailment They talk with families help mitigate family crises arising from drug addiction connect patients with treatment support relapse prevention and promote integrated rehabilitation They also lay special focus on reducing stigma strengthening community engagement and ensuring continuity of care after individuals complete deaddiction and rehabilitation programmesBeyond providing districtlevel leadership the first cohort of LMHP fellows is playing a catalytic role by supporting healthcare workers strengthening service delivery and institutionalizing best practices in the fight against drugsnbspThe inaugural cohort of the Leadership in Mental Health Programme is transforming the way the community understands and responds to substance use and addiction In doing so Punjab is embedding mental health at the heart of its Yudh Nashean Virudh campaign recognising that the fight against drugs is not only about cutting off supply but also about healing minds rebuilding families and restoring lives with compassion and care https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-govt-to-open-applications-for-2nd-mental-health-fellows-cohort-in-august-695091.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 17:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/aap-govt-committed-to-freedom-fighters-dreams-cm-mann-695092.html DW Bureau SUNAM UDHAM SINGH WALA 31st July 2026nbspPunjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday reaffirmed the Aam Aadmi Party AAP Governments unwavering commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the great nationalists who made the supreme sacrifices to free the country from the clutches of British imperialism During a statelevel function to commemorate the 87th martyrdom day of Shaheed Udham Singh at Sunam the Chief Minister said the legendary revolutionarys unparalleled patriotism and supreme sacrifice would continue to inspire generations to serve the nation selflessly and that the nation would forever remain indebted to the iconic martyr Earlier the Chief Minister paid floral tributes and laid a wreath at the memorial in honour of Shaheed Udham SinghPaying tribute to Shaheed Udham Singh CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X On the martyrdom day of the great revolutionary Shaheed Udham Singh Ji who avenged the Jallianwala Bagh massacre I pay my humble tributes to him His unparalleled sacrifice for the honour and dignity of the nation will forever remain a great source of inspiration for all of usAddressing the gathering CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said Shaheed Udham Singh made the supreme sacrifice for the freedom of our country It is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction for me to be part of this solemn occasion to pay tribute to this iconic martyr Indias freedom struggle witnessed countless sacrifices by brave sons and daughters of the nation who laid down their lives to free the country and pave the way for an egalitarian society committed to the welfare of the weaker and underprivileged sectionsThe Chief Minister said Today we have gathered here to express our highest gratitude to this great patriot while commemorating the day on which Shaheed Udham Singh embraced martyrdom He avenged the dastardly act committed by the erstwhile British Government at Jallianwala Bagh where hundreds of unarmed and innocent Indians were mercilessly shot dead under the administration of the then Lieutenant Governor of Punjab Michael ODwyer Shaheed Udham Singh ensured that Michael ODwyer was brought to justice at Caxton Hall in LondonPaying rich tributes to Shaheed Udham Singh at the Udham Singh Memorial in the local stadium the Chief Minister laid a wreath at the memorial in honour of the legendary martyrCM Bhagwant Singh Mann noted This is a sacred place where people from across the country and around the world come to pay homage and draw inspiration from the extraordinary life of Shaheed Udham Singh This true son of the soil displayed exemplary courage by eliminating Michael ODwyer the principal perpetrator of the Jallianwala Bagh massacreHe further said The supreme sacrifice made by this son of the soil in the national freedom struggle strengthened Indias resolve to overthrow British imperialism The unparalleled sacrifice of Shaheed Udham Singh will continue to inspire our youth to dedicate themselves to selfless service of the nation Our country will always remain indebted to this iconic martyr who laid down his life for the motherlandSenior AAP leader and Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia Cabinet Minister Aman Arora and several other dignitaries were also present on the occasion https://dailyworld.in/national/aap-govt-committed-to-freedom-fighters-dreams-cm-mann-695092.html Fri, 31 Jul 2026 17:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/political-tensions-escalate-ahead-of-hm-shahs-pune-visit-cong-plans-protest-bjp-warns-of-tit-for-tat-response-694929.html Pune July 30 IANS The political temperature in Pune has risen sharply ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shahs scheduled visit to the city on August 1 The Pune City Congress has announced a protest during Shahs visit while the BJP has strongly opposed the move and warned of a titfortat response The escalating war of words between the two parties has also sparked concerns over maintaining law and order in the cityPrashant Jagtap President of the Pune City East Congress Committee alleged that the Central Government had attempted to suppress student protests held across the country over the alleged NEET examination paper leak According to him students participating in these demonstrations were subjected to lathi charges tear gas and other forms of force leaving several injuredJagtap claimed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah was responsible for suppressing the voices of students who were demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak controversy He said the Congress would register its protest against the Centres handling of the issueAnnouncing the demonstration Jagtap said Congress workers students and concerned citizens would gather at Seven Loves Chowk on Shankarsheth Road at 1030 am on August 1 The location falls along the route scheduled for Shahs visitHe further claimed that false cases were being filed against protesters and that even their family members were facing harassment after the protests had endedAppealing to Pune residents to participate in large numbers Jagtap said the protest would be directed against what he termed the Central Governments dictatorial attitude and the alleged atrocities committed against students He asserted that the Congress would continue to raise its voice against actions it believes undermine democratic rightsMeanwhile Pune City BJP President Dheeraj Ghate addressed a press conference and criticised the proposed Congress protest describing it as politically motivated According to Ghate Shahs visit is linked to an important civic event and should not be politicisedHe pointed out that Shah is scheduled to attend the Lokmanya Tilak Award ceremony during which National Security Advisor Ajit Doval will be honoured with the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak Award Ghate said the event is a matter of pride for Pune and accused the Congress of attempting to overshadow the occasion for political reasonsGhate alleged that the Congress was organising the protest solely for political mileage and without any legitimate justification He maintained that the BJP would firmly oppose the agitation and added that all necessary permissions including those related to sound systems and event arrangements had been sought from the police authoritiesResponding to Ghates remarks Jagtap reiterated that the Congress would go ahead with the protest regardless of any pressure or opposition He alleged that the Pune Police had been making repeated attempts to discourage the agitation but insisted that the party would not retreatAccepting the BJP leaders challenge Jagtap said We will hold the protest just try and stop us It remains to be seen whether law and order in Pune city is maintained by the police or by BJP workers The entire city will watch how the police respond if the BJP attempts to disrupt our protestTaking a swipe at the BJP he claimed that the partys reaction itself demonstrated the impact of the Congress protest He emphasised that expressing dissent through democratic means is a constitutional right and said the Congress would continue its agitationWith both parties refusing to back down a political confrontation now appears likely during Shahs Pune visit on August 1 Ensuring peace and maintaining law and order amid the escalating political standoff is expected to be a significant challenge for the Pune PoliceIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/political-tensions-escalate-ahead-of-hm-shahs-pune-visit-cong-plans-protest-bjp-warns-of-tit-for-tat-response-694929.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/oppn-stages-walkout-in-rajya-sabha-nadda-says-they-have-no-agenda-694930.html New Delhi July 30 IANS Opposition members staged a walkout in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday The Leader of the House JP Nadda asserted that the Opposition had no agenda and did not want a discussion while the government remained ready to debate all subjectsnbspThe disruption started after the House assembled following the laying of papers reports and ministers statementsCongress member from Rajasthan Pramod Tiwari referred to Article 75 stressing that the Council of Ministers was collectively responsible to the House He demanded the presence of the Home Minister in the HouseTreasury benches objected but Chairman Radhakrishnan allowed him to speak before declining his point of order stating it was not related to the listed business and permitted other members to raise issues with the Chairs permissionDespite the proceedings moving forward Opposition members continued sloganeering Home Minister Sadan Mein Aao Home Minister come to the House drowning out other voices Several members then highlighted regional and sectoral concernsPrakash Chik Baraik of the BJP from West Bengal and Sanjay Singh of the AAP raised the problems of sugarcane farmers in Uttar PradeshGhanshyam Tiwari of the BJP spoke on drinking water scarcity in the Shekhawati area of RajasthanKanad Purkayastha of the BJP sought establishment of a logistics park under the PM Gati Shakti project in AssamGovindbhai Laljibhai Dholakia from Gujarat called for promotion of natural farming across IndiaRekha Sharma of the BJP from Haryana drew attention to wastage of leftover food prepared by Indian Railways for passengers and suggested it be provided to the needy instead of being discardedChairman Radhakrishnan next allowed Congress member Rajiv Shukla who observed that the House was not in order and that what the Opposition wished to say would not come on recordPramod Tiwari was again permitted to speak He reiterated the demand for the Home Ministers presence citing collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers under the Constitution for formal answers He referred to the fact that when it was a matter of lathi charge and bullets used on students the Home Minister must show up in the House and replyChairman Radhakrishnan ruled that the point of order was not linked to the List of Business and called Dorjee Tshering Lepcha of the BJP from SikkimAt this stage Opposition members staged a walkout Lepcha raised the issue of yak conservation in SikkimLeader of the House JP Nadda then addressed the House He said the Opposition members were collectively in the habit of shifting the goalpost even though the Modiled government was always ready to discuss all issuesWhenever discussions took place he added the Opposition fell flatNadda condemned the Oppositions role and assured the House that the government stood prepared to discuss every matter describing the Oppositions conduct as utterly irresponsibleEarlier the Rajya Sabha conducted significant business related to external affairs science earth sciences and cultureDr John Brittas and Ratanjit Pratap Narain Singh laid the 14th and 15th reports of the departmentrelated Parliamentary Standing Committee on External AffairsDr Jitendra Singh made statements on the status of implementation of recommendations contained in the reports of the departmentrelated Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology Environment Forests and Climate Change concerning Demands for Grants 202627 for the Department of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Earth Sciences respectivelyGajendra Singh Shekhawat made a statement on the status of implementation of recommendations in the report on demands for grants 202526 pertaining to the Ministry of CultureThe House continued with its listed agendaIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/oppn-stages-walkout-in-rajya-sabha-nadda-says-they-have-no-agenda-694930.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-to-examine-bihar-minister-continuing-beyond-six-months-without-being-elected-694931.html New Delhi July 30 IANS The Supreme Court on Thursday said that the Bihar government will have to explain how Panchayati Raj Minister Deepak Prakash has continued in office for more than six months without becoming a member of either House of the state legislaturenbspMentioning the matter before Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant the petitioners counsel submitted that more than six months had elapsed and Deepak Prakash continued to hold ministerial office despite not being elected to the Bihar Assembly or the Legislative CouncilMy Lord it is now over six months and he continues as a minister the counsel said while seeking an early hearingThe counsel appearing for the Bihar government informed the CJI Kantled Bench that the matter was already listed for hearing on August 27 and left the question of preponing the hearing to the discretion of the apex courtCJI Kant observed that the matter involves a pure question of law and said the state government would have to explain the constitutional basis for allowing a person who is not a member of the Legislative Assembly or Legislative Council to continue as a minister beyond six monthsThe Supreme Court indicated that it would take up the plea for hearing on TuesdayThe petition concerns the constitutional validity of Deepak Prakashs continuance as Bihar Panchayati Raj Minister despite not being a member of either House of the state legislatureEarlier the top court had issued notice on a Public Interest Litigation PIL filed by social activist and whistleblower Rakesh Kumar Singh challenging Deepak Prakashs reappointment as Minister after the formation of the new government in BiharThe plea raises an important constitutional question relating to Article 1644 of the Constitution which permits a nonlegislator to serve as a minister for a maximum period of six months within which the person must become a member of the legislatureAccording to the petition Deepak Prakash was first inducted into the Bihar Cabinet on November 20 2025 despite not being a member of either House of the state legislatureFollowing the resignation of then Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on April 15 the Council of Ministers ceased to exist Deepak Prakash was subsequently reappointed as Panchayati Raj Minister on May 7 in the newly constituted government headed by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary even though he had still not secured membership of either HouseThe petitioner has contended that the reappointment amounts to a colourable exercise of constitutional power intended to indirectly extend the sixmonth period available to a nonlegislator minister under Article 1644Relying on the Supreme Courts 2001 judgment in SR Chaudhuri versus State of Punjab the plea argues that the constitutional exception under Article 1644 is a onetime privilege and cannot be repeatedly invoked through resignation change of ministry Cabinet reshuffles or reappointmentThe PIL seeks a declaration that Deepak Prakashs reappointment is unconstitutional and void and also seeks issuance of a writ of quo warranto questioning the authority under which he continues to hold ministerial officeIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-to-examine-bihar-minister-continuing-beyond-six-months-without-being-elected-694931.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bankipur-bypoll-1150-pc-voter-turnout-recorded-till-11-am-key-leaders-cast-their-votes-694932.html Patna July 30 Polling for the highprofile Bankipur Assembly byelection in Patna district has been progressing peacefully since 7 am on Thursday with voters turning out steadily at polling stations across the constituency According to the Election Commission 1150 per cent voter turnout was recorded by 11 am and officials expect the polling percentage to increase as the day advances The byelection is being closely watched in Bihars political circles with a threecornered contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party BJP the Rashtriya Janata Dal RJD and Jan SuraajThe BJP has fielded Neeraj Kumar Sinha while the RJD has nominated Rekha Gupta Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor is contesting the election himself making the contest a politically significant test for all three partiesPolitical observers view the byelection as an important challenge for the BJP to retain a constituency long regarded as one of its strongholds while for Prashant Kishor the outcome is being seen as a key test of his political standingAfter casting his vote Bihar minister Ramkripal Yadav said he had voted for NDA candidate Neeraj Kumar Sinha on the BJPs Lotus symbolAddressing reporters Yadav described the lotus as a symbol of Goddess Lakshmi and expressed confidence in the NDA candidates prospectsHe also criticised Prashant Kishor questioning his local connection with the Bankipur constituency while describing former BJP MLA Nitin Nabin as a son of the soilAccording to Yadav voters prefer a local representative and are extending strong support to Neeraj Kumar SinhaSenior BJP leader and Member of Parliament Ravi Shankar Prasad also cast his vote in Bankipur and said he had been voting at the same polling booth for the past two decadesHe expressed satisfaction after voting for the BJPNDA candidate and said the people of Bankipur have maintained a longstanding association with the BJPReferring to development initiatives undertaken by the governments led by former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar CM Samrat Choudhary BJP chief Nitin Nabin and during his own tenure as an MP Prasad said voters were supporting the continuation of development in the constituencyPolling is continuing under extensive security arrangements and election authorities expect voter participation to increase throughout the dayThe votes will be counted on August 3 when the winner of the Bankipur Assembly byelection will be declared IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bankipur-bypoll-1150-pc-voter-turnout-recorded-till-11-am-key-leaders-cast-their-votes-694932.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-speaker-seeks-fresh-explanation-from-four-ex-aiadmk-mlas-in-defection-case-694933.html Chennai July 30 Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker JCT Prabhakar has directed four former AIADMK legislators who resigned from the party and later joined the TVK to appear before him on August 4 to submit further explanations in connection with disqualification proceedings initiated under the antidefection law The four legislators are Maragatham Kumaravel the Independent MLA from Madurantakam who was elected with AIADMKâs support Jayakumar from Perundurai Sathyabama the Independent MLA from Dharapuram backed by the AIADMK and Isakki Subbiah from AmbasamudramAll four resigned from the AIADMK after winning the Assembly election and subsequently joined the TVKThe proceedings stem from a petition filed by AIADMK general secretary and Leader of Opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami who urged the Speaker to disqualify the legislators under the provisions of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution commonly known as the antidefection lawThe petition contends that the MLAs voluntarily gave up their association with the party on whose support they were elected and are therefore liable to lose their Assembly membershipFollowing the complaint Speaker Prabhakar had earlier summoned the four legislators and sought their explanations They appeared before him and submitted their responsesThe Assembly Secretariat had initially scheduled another hearing for July 30 during which the four legislators were asked to appear againSpeaker Prabhakar had also invited Edappadi Palaniswami to be present during the proceedings However the hearing has now been postponedThe Assembly Secretariat informed the concerned parties that the matter will instead be taken up on August 4 when the four legislators are expected to appear before the Speaker once again and provide further clarificationThe AIADMK has maintained that the legislators attracted disqualification by switching political allegiance after their election and has been pressing for early action on the petitionMeanwhile AIADMK MLA Agri S Krishnamurthy has said that Edappadi Palaniswami would decide whether to personally appear before the Speaker only after the explanations submitted by the four legislators are examinedThe Speaker is expected to hear the matter further on August 4 before deciding the next course of action in the disqualification proceedings IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-speaker-seeks-fresh-explanation-from-four-ex-aiadmk-mlas-in-defection-case-694933.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kolkata-police-unveils-new-uniforms-helmets-for-durga-suraksha-squad-694935.html Kolkata July 30 Kolkata Polices Durga Suraksha Squad launched earlier this month to create awareness against crimes against women will now wear specially designed pinkandorange waistcoats featuring the image of Goddess Durga and her trident over their uniforms while on duty a senior police officer said on Thursday  The new waistcoat mandatory for squad members patrolling on scooters has been designed in pink and orange colours symbolising compassion and strength The front and back of the garment will display the face of Goddess Durga along with her trident while the words Durga Suraksha Squad will be prominently printed in English There will also be pockets insideAccording to police officials the design reflects the squads dual role of supporting women in distress with empathy while taking firm action against crimes and violence targeting women The waistcoat has been tailored with multiple pockets and lightweight material to ensure comfort durability and ease of movement during patrol duty Kolkata Police Headquarters at Lalbazar has ordered 110 waistcoats at an estimated cost of Rs 275 lakh Manufacturers have been instructed to ensure the outfits are professional sturdy comfortable and suitable for personnel of different body types without hampering operational efficiency The dress should be light comfortable and easy to wear and should not get in the way of performing dutiesThe squad will also receive new pink helmets carrying the Kolkata Police logo The helmets will feature multilayer soft padding fullside protection and chin guards while ensuring adequate ventilation Police have ordered around 80 such helmets at a cost of approximately Rs 108 lakh The Durga Suraksha Squad primarily patrols the city on scooters to enhance womens safety The initiative is supported by a joint patrol network that includes personnel from police stations the cyber police station womens police stations and womens cells across Kolkata IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kolkata-police-unveils-new-uniforms-helmets-for-durga-suraksha-squad-694935.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 12:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/madras-hc-rejects-senthil-balajis-anticipatory-bail-plea-in-tasmac-corruption-case-694940.html Chennai July 30 The Madras High Court on Thursday rejected the anticipatory bail plea of former Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK MLA V Senthil Balaji in the Directorate of Vigilance and AntiCorruption DVAC case alleging largescale corruption in the functioning of the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation TASMAC Dismissing the plea Justice GK Ilanthiraiyan held that the nature of the allegations warranted custodial interrogation and observed that the case involved serious charges of largescale corruptionThe court also took note of the prosecutionâs claim that the accused had allegedly abused their official positions entered into a criminal conspiracy and caused substantial financial loss to the State exchequerThe case stems from an FIR registered by the DVAC on July 28 against Balaji and several others over alleged irregularities in TASMAC between 2021 and 2025 when he served as Minister for Electricity Prohibition and ExciseThe FIR invokes provisions of the Indian Penal Code the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Prevention of Corruption Act including charges of criminal conspiracy criminal breach of trust cheating falsification of records and corruptionAccording to the prosecution Balaji conspired with six others including private individuals distillery and brewery companies transport contractors bottling firms and unidentified TASMAC officials to manipulate official processes and misappropriate public fundsInvestigators alleged that the conspiracy enabled the laundering of illicit money while causing significant losses to the stateSeeking prearrest bail Balaji denied all allegations and contended that the FIR was based on vague and omnibus accusations without identifying any specific tender contract or transaction linking him to the alleged offencesHe also alleged that the case was politically motivated and had been registered due to hostility from the ruling party following the Karur stampede controversyAppearing for Balaji Senior Advocate NR Elango argued that TASMAC functioned as an independent corporation and that the Minister had no role in awarding tenders or managing its daytoday affairsHe further submitted that the Enforcement Directorateâs earlier searches at TASMAC offices were already under challenge before the Supreme Court where related proceedings remain pendingAfter considering the submissions of both sides the High Court held that the seriousness of the allegations and the need for a thorough investigation outweighed the grounds raised by the defence Observing that custodial interrogation was necessary to ascertain the alleged conspiracy and financial irregularities the court dismissed Balajiâs anticipatory bail petition IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/madras-hc-rejects-senthil-balajis-anticipatory-bail-plea-in-tasmac-corruption-case-694940.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/it-does-not-matter-what-they-do-priyanka-gandhi-as-ex-hockey-captain-asks-logic-behind-orange-wc-jersey-694942.html New Delhi July 30 IANS Reacting to concerns raised by former India hockey captain Viren Rasquinha over Indias traditional blue jersey allegedly being replaced by orange ones Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday said that no matter what changes are made the youth of the country have already made their views clearSpeaking to reporters outside Parliament Priyanka Gandhi said Whether they change the uniform or try to rewrite history through the education policy no matter what they do the youth of this country have made their views clear You saw what the young people gathered at Jantar Mantar were saying That is the voice of the nationShe further said that Indias freedom struggle was founded on the principles of nonviolence and truthIndias freedom struggle was built on nonviolence and truth and the RSS had no role in it The whole country knows this reality and those who did not are now beginning to understand their intentions The Congress party led that movement under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and the soul of this country is rooted in nonviolence truth and brotherhood she saidThe Congress leader asserted that the fundamental values of the nation cannot be erased regardless of political or ideological effortsNo one can remove it It does not matter what they do or whether they create violence or spread hate In the end the soul of this country is one of brotherhood and unity No one can take that away Priyanka Gandhi addedFormer India hockey captain Viren Rasquinha has criticised Hockey Indias decision to unveil a predominantly orange jersey for the mens and womens national teams ahead of the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium saying the move goes against the teams longstanding identityReacting after the federation revealed the new orange kit for the mens and womens FIH World Cup teams instead of traditional blue kit Rasquinha said supporters associate the Indian hockey team with its traditional blue colours and questioned the rationale for the changeTaking to X Rasquinha first acknowledged the work Hockey India has done for the sport before expressing his disappointment over the jersey I must say that TheHockeyIndia has done many good things for Indian hockey But this is embarrassingThe former midfielder who captained India and represented the country at the 2004 Athens Olympics and the 2006 Mens Hockey World Cup said the blue jersey has always been an inseparable part of the national teams identityThe legacy and identity of the Indian team has always been BLUE I wore the Blue jersey with pride for many years he addedRasquinha also highlighted the emotional connection supporters have with the traditional colours insisting that the change was difficult to understandFans want to see our Indian team in blue What is the logic of orange Rasquinha questionedThe remarks came days after Hockey India officially unveiled the new World Cup jersey replacing the familiar blue base with orange In a detailed social media video the federation outlined the symbolism behind every element of the designAccording to Hockey India the saffron colour represents courage sacrifice and victory and draws inspiration from the Indian national flag and the rising sun to signify new beginnings The jersey also features mandalainspired patterns celebrating Indias cultural heritage deep navy blue accents inspired by the Ashoka Chakra to represent progress peace and focus and a modern interpretation of the Sudarshan Chakra on the chest symbolising strength unity and momentumThe design further incorporates Tricolour piping along the shoulders and sides India written in stylised Devanagari script and branding recognising Odishas longstanding support for Indian hockey Hockey India said the jersey embodies the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha BharatIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/it-does-not-matter-what-they-do-priyanka-gandhi-as-ex-hockey-captain-asks-logic-behind-orange-wc-jersey-694942.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 13:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-stages-protest-outside-aaps-office-in-delhi-demands-resignation-of-punjab-education-minister-694958.html New Delhi July 30 IANS BJP leaders and workers on Thursday staged a protest outside the AAPs office in the national Capital demanding the resignation of Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains over alleged exam paper leaks in the statenbspThe Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann came under fire after the Punjab Police reportedly busted an interstate cheating racket during the July 19 pharmacy officer recruitment examination with the BJP demanding accountability from the AAP regimeSpeaking to IANS BJP MP Yogender Chandolia accused the Arvind Kejriwalled AAP of having a hand in creating the ruckus during the Cockroach Janta Partyled agitation at the national Capitals Jantar MantarHe further accused the Punjab government of not taking any measures despite multiple paper leaks in the state It cannot go on like this he addedBJP worker Irfan Salmani who took part in the protest said We have gathered here to demand the resignation of the Punjab Education Minister as few goons of Arvind Kejriwal were sitting at Jantar Mantar and indulged in stone pelting while demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan which he latter tendered But will Kejriwal now ask the Punjab Education Minister to resign as well since repeated paper leak cases are being reported from the stateWe dont want to create a Jantar Mantar kind of a situation we are decent workers of the BJP and are therefore demanding his resignation through a decent demonstration he told IANSA female party worker added On our part as soon as the NEET paper leak came into light an FIR was registered accused were arrested and they are still in jail The government even conducted a successful reexamination within one month But they AAP should look within themselves multiple paper leaks have been reported under Harjot Singhs tenure so why are they not taking accountabilityReferring to Dharmendra Pradhans resignation a senior party worker said When the countrys Education Minister can resign on moral groundsand Kejriwal had himself said that such resignations should happen to check accountability then despite the AAP being in power in Punjab why is he not seeking the resignation of the Education Minister thereHe called the AAPs approach as double standardsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-stages-protest-outside-aaps-office-in-delhi-demands-resignation-of-punjab-education-minister-694958.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 15:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sikkim-mp-meets-pm-modi-seeks-centers-intervention-on-key-issues--694982.html New Delhi July 30 IANS Sikkims lone Lok Sabha MP Indra Hang Subba on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Parliament House and submitted a memorandum seeking the Centres intervention on a series of longpending developmental constitutional and strategic issues concerning the Himalayan stateDuring the meeting Subba conveyed greetings and gratitude to the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Sikkim and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang Golay thanking the NDA government for its continued support to the states developmentPrime Minister Narendra Modi also enquired about the recent tunnel mishap in Sikkim Briefing him on the situation the MP informed the Prime Minister about the state governments response to the incident and thanked him for his concern and support for the affected familiesThe memorandum submitted by Subba sought early inclusion of the 12 leftout communities of Sikkim in the Scheduled Tribe list a longpending demand in the stateIt also urged the Centre to revisit provisions of the Representation of the People Act 1950 to facilitate reservation of seats for Scheduled Tribes in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly and address the pending issues relating to the Limboo and Tamang Scheduled TribesAmong the key infrastructure demands the MP sought the construction of a Greenfield Highway parallel to National Highway10 to improve connectivity and the development of an allweather strategic road along the IndoNepal border in western Sikkim with links to Border OutpostsSubba also requested the restoration of scheduled commercial flight operations at Pakyong Airport establishment of an Indian Institute of Technology IIT or an extension campus in Sikkim and setting up of a National Institute of Fashion Technology NIFT in the stateThe memorandum further sought the Centres assistance in facilitating the visit of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa to SikkimAccording to a statement issued by the Office of the Member of Parliament Subba expressed confidence that the issues raised would receive positive consideration under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and help accelerate Sikkims inclusive strategic and sustainable developmentIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sikkim-mp-meets-pm-modi-seeks-centers-intervention-on-key-issues--694982.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 18:34:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/should-i-resign-for-doing-good-work-telangana-cm-slams-oppn-for-demanding-resignation-as-education-minister-694985.html Hyderabad July 30 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday slammed the Opposition for demanding his resignation as the education minister He asked if he should quit the education portfolio for performing well and introducing various reforms The Chief Minister was speaking at an interaction session with a group of teachers who recently visited Finland and GermanyâSome people are demanding me to step down as education Is it because breakfast is being provided from nursery to Class 12 Is it for properly managing teacher recruitment and promotions Is it for transforming ITIs industrial training institutes into ATCs advanced technology centresâ he askedHe also wanted to know if they were demanding his resignation for establishing a Skills University to equip students with necessary skills and for appointing owners of successful global corporate entities as Board members of the Skills UniversityStating that the Telangana government spends â¹108 lakh on each student in government schools CM Reddy said that as a result of reforms launched by his government in the education sector an additional one lakh students have enrolled in government schoolsAsserting that education is not merely about skills the Chief Minister stated that the government is striving to impart skills alongside education After completing the 12th grade a student should possess a comprehensive understanding of the world It is the teachers who must foster that awareness among studentsHe remarked that for 25 years Indians looked towards America and said now they must focus on countries like Germany Japan and Singapore There are abundant opportunities in those countriesCM Revanth Reddy called for transforming government educational institutions in a way that makes the world look towards Telangana He urged the teachers to dedicate five years to society and to transform the future of new generationâWork with the goal of making Telangana a role model for the nation Offer your own suggestions on what more can be done to provide quality education to students Prepare a report by December outlining what should be done for the upcoming academic yearâ he saidHe exuded confidence that Congress party will remain in power in Telangana until 2034 He made it clear that the government is prepared to incur any expense necessary for the studentsHe announced that teachers will be provided opportunities to go abroad for further studies like IAS and IPS officers do IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/should-i-resign-for-doing-good-work-telangana-cm-slams-oppn-for-demanding-resignation-as-education-minister-694985.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 19:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/malaria-a-major-concern-in-jharkhand-16-728-cases-reported-in-six-months-694986.html Ranchi July 30 Malaria continues to be a major public health concern in Jharkhand with 16728 cases reported across the state between January and June this year a state Health Department statement said on Thursday According to the statement nearly 76 per cent of these cases were recorded in East Singhbhum and West Singhbhum districts making them the worstaffected regions of the stateAt the same time 77 dengue cases were reported in June alone with Ranchi accounting for the highest number at 27The figures were shared on Thursday during a statelevel Task Force meeting on the prevention and control of vectorborne diseases held at Nepal House in Ranchi and chaired by the Additional Chief Secretary Health Medical Education and Family WelfareOfficials informed in the meeting that East Singhbhum reported 6527 malaria cases and West Singhbhum 6172 cases by June 2026 Together the two districts accounted for nearly threefourths of the states total malaria burdenIn view of the high incidence authorities directed officials to intensify surveillance ensure timely diagnosis and complete treatment maintain adequate drug supplies strengthen mosquitocontrol measures and accelerate public awareness campaignsThe Additional Chief Secretary stressed that combating vectorborne diseases such as malaria lymphatic filariasis dengue chikungunya kalaazar and Japanese encephalitis cannot be the sole responsibility of the Health DepartmentHe said coordinated efforts by departments including Rural Development Panchayati Raj Urban Development Education Labour and Drinking Water and Sanitation are essential for the effective control of the diseaseHe also called for turning disease prevention into a mass movement and directed authorities to clearly define responsibilities from the district level down to panchayatsThe meeting also reviewed the progress of the Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination ProgrammeOfficials were instructed to ensure that during the Mass Drug Administration MDA campaign eligible beneficiaries not only receive medicines but also consume them in the presence of trained health workersEmphasis was also laid on improving treatment for filariasis patients increasing the availability of hydrocele surgeries ensuring adequate supplies of MMDP kits and strengthening regular followup mechanisms IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/malaria-a-major-concern-in-jharkhand-16-728-cases-reported-in-six-months-694986.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 19:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-steady-voting-in-manjalpur-bypoll-as-turnout-touches-3435-pc-694988.html Vadodara July 30 Polling in the byeelection to Gujarats Manjalpur Assembly constituency gathered pace through the day with 3435 per cent voter turnout recorded by 5 pm according to data released by the Election Commission of India ECI The latest figures show a steady increase in voter participation after the constituency recorded 606 per cent polling by 10 am 1427 per cent by 1230 pm and 2166 per cent by 2 pmVoting continued at polling stations until the scheduled closing time with election officials monitoring the process under extensive security and surveillance arrangementsThe byeelection is being held following the death of veteran BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Yogesh Patel who represented the constituency for several termsA total of 219494 electors are eligible to vote in the constituency comprising 111645 men 107847 women and two thirdgender votersThe electoral roll also includes 1634 Persons with Disabilities PwD 1406 voters aged 85 years and above and 12 centenarians Ahead of polling day 107 voters including 90 senior citizens exercised their franchise through the home voting facilityThe contest is a direct fight between the BJP and the Indian CongressThe BJP has fielded Satish Patel a former Vadodara Municipal Corporation councillor and former BJP Vadodara district president while the Congress has nominated Bhikha Rabari the partys Gujarat vicepresident and a former state ministerPolling is being conducted at 260 polling stations across 62 locations each equipped with basic amenities including ramps drinking water electricity and toiletsTwo polling stations are being managed entirely by women personnel two by Persons with Disabilities staff and five have been designated as model polling stationsThe Election Commission has implemented several technologydriven measures for the bypollAll 260 polling stations are under 100 per cent live webcasting and CCTV surveillance while mobile deposit counters have been set up outside polling stations to help voters to deposit their mobile phones before entering polling boothsPresiding Officers have been updating polling percentages every two hours through the ECINET applicationDuring the day polling remained largely peaceful although a brief confrontation was reported outside a polling station at Panchsheel Vidyalaya where BJP and Congress workers accused each other of violating election normsPolice intervened brought the situation under control and confirmed that polling continued without disruption Counting of votes for the byeelection is scheduled to take place on August 3 IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/gujarat-steady-voting-in-manjalpur-bypoll-as-turnout-touches-3435-pc-694988.html Thu, 30 Jul 2026 19:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/anti-paper-leak-bill-passed-by-lok-sabha-694796.html New Delhi July 29 IANS The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Amendment Bill 2026 through a voice voteThis Bill passed after a stormy debate spanning several hours over two days seeks to amend the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024The proposed amendment aims to enhance transparency and integrity in the examination system through stricter legal provisions while ensuring that the future of students remains fully protected Among the key features are stringent penalties including imprisonment of up to 10 years a fine of up to Rs 10 crore confiscation of assets of those found guilty and the establishment of a mechanism to ensure verdicts are delivered within three monthsThe move follows the Union Cabinets approval of the Bill and related provisions designed to establish fasttrack courts and provide harsher punishment in cases involving paper leaks and examination fraudThe initiative comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that a comprehensive Bill containing provisions for strong action against paper leaks would be introduced in the ParliamentAs per the proposal the fasttrack courts will be mandated to complete trials and deliver judgments within three months ensuring swift justice in examinationrelated offencesThis also comes in the wake of the largescale Sansad Chalo protest held in New Delhi on July 20 where hundreds of students participated in a demonstration organised by the Cockroach Janta Party CJP against the NEET paper leaks and other examinationrelated irregularitiesThe demonstration later turned violent following which security personnel resorted to the use of force to disperse the crowd During the clashes several protesters as well as police personnel sustained serious injuriesThe protesters had also demanded the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan from the post of Union Education Minister Pradhan subsequently tendered his resignation on July 25IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/anti-paper-leak-bill-passed-by-lok-sabha-694796.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rail-accidents-fall-nearly-90-pc-in-a-decade-as-govt-improves-safety-measures-govt-694801.html New Delhi July 29 IANS Safety on Indian Railways has improved markedly with train accidents dropping 88 per cent to 16 incidents in 202526 from 135 in 201415 and just two in the current year up to June the government informed Parliament on WednesdaynbspConsequential Accident Index accidents per million trainkilometres decreased to 001 in 202526 from 011 in 201415 a reduction of about 91 per cent Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said in Lok SabhaThe statement from the Ministry of Railways outlined a wide range of measures and investments that enhanced safety in train operationsExpenditure on safetyrelated activities has risen steadily from Rs 39200 crore in 201314 to Rs 120389 crore in 202627Electrical and electronic interlocking systems with centralised operation have been provided at 6671 stations and complete track circuiting at all these stations Interlocking of Level Crossing LC Gates has been provided at 10395 LC Gates to enhance safetyAll locomotives are equipped with vigilance control devices and GPSbased fog safety devices have been provided to loco pilots in fogaffected areas the statement addedRetroreflective sigma boards are provided on the mast which is located two OHE masts prior to the signals in electrified territories to alert the crew about the signal ahead when visibility is low due to foggy weatherUltrasonic Flaw Detection USFD testing of rails to detect flaws and timely removal of defective rails along with laying of longer rails minimising the use of Alumino Thermic Welding and adoption of better welding technology for rails were among other initiatives that increased safetyInspections at regular intervals are carried out to monitor and educate staff for observance of safe practicesThe minister also mentioned the implementation of Kavach indigenously developed Automatic Train Protection ATP system that aids the loco pilot in running of trains within specified speed limits by automatic application of brakesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rail-accidents-fall-nearly-90-pc-in-a-decade-as-govt-improves-safety-measures-govt-694801.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 16:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-ncr-likely-to-witness-multiple-spells-of-rain-today-cloudy-skies-to-continue-694712.html New Delhi July 29 IANS The India Meteorological Department IMD has forecast generally cloudy skies with multiple spells of rain across DelhiNCR on WednesdayAccording to the weather department the national capital is likely to experience very light to light rainfall at most places with moderate rain expected at a few locations from early morning until noon Another spell of rain is also likely during the evening and night hoursThe forecast comes as the monsoon trough an upperair cyclonic circulation over southwest Uttar Pradesh and a western disturbance continue to influence weather conditions across northwest India and adjoining regionsThe IMD stated that Delhi is expected to receive one or two spells of very light to light rain at most places while isolated areas may witness moderate rainfall during the early morning to noon period Later in the day another spell of very light to light rain is likely at many places with moderate rainfall expected at isolated locations during the evening and nightThe department has predicted a maximum temperature between 31 and 33 degrees Celsius and a minimum temperature between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius Southeasterly winds with speeds ranging from 10 to 15 kmph are expected to prevail throughout the dayThe IMDs sevenday forecast suggests that generally cloudy skies will continue over the national capital through the first week of August accompanied by intermittent spells of rainOn July 30 Delhi is likely to receive light to moderate rainfall followed by another spell of very light to light rain during the night From July 31 to August 2 isolated spells of very light to light rain are expected On August 3 the city may witness a few spells of light rain in many places particularly during the early morning to noon hoursMeanwhile heavy monsoon showers brought Delhi to a standstill on Tuesday causing widespread disruption across the city Flooded roads waterlogged markets traffic congestion fallen trees and power outages affected normal life in several areasThe downpour made Tuesday the rainiest day of the year so far and also the coldest day recorded in July over the past three years according to the IMDSafdarjung Delhis base weather station recorded 576 mm of rainfall between 830 am and 530 pm on Tuesday Several areas received even heavier showers with Pusa recording the highest rainfall at 885 mm during the same periodIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-ncr-likely-to-witness-multiple-spells-of-rain-today-cloudy-skies-to-continue-694712.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 11:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-bjp-mla-threatens-to-destroy-lop-rahul-gandhis-family-like-babri-masjid-fir-registered-694714.html Bengaluru July 29 IANS Karnataka Police on Wednesday registered an FIR against BJP MLA Yashpal Suvarna after he allegedly said that Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhis family would be destroyed in the same manner as the Babri Masjid was demolished in 1992nbspThe FIR was registered by the Udupi Town Police Station based on a complaint filed by Ashok Kumar Kodavoor president of the Udupi District Congress Committee Police have invoked Sections 57 192 1962 352 3532 and 3512 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNSAddressing a public programme organised by the BJP in Udupi Suvarna threatened the Congress leadership stating If you continue to enact such dramas just as our party workers destroyed the Babri Masjid in 1992 when our sentiments were hurt the Congress dynasty and Rahul Gandhis family will likewise be destroyedThe remarks have triggered a major political controversy in Karnataka with the Congress accusing the BJP of resorting to hate speech and intimidation Video clips of the speech have since gone viral on social media prompting demands for immediate legal actionKPCC Working President and MLC Manjunatha Bhandary said the Karnataka government had taken the matter seriously and would ensure that strict action is taken in accordance with the law He described Suvarnas statements as hateful derogatory and provocative and said they were unbecoming of a public representative who has taken an oath to uphold the ConstitutionBhandary said that the BJP was attempting to divert attention from the NEET question paper leak controversy and the nationwide protests over the issue by targeting LoP Rahul Gandhi through personal attacks He also criticised other BJP legislators who were present at the event for failing to condemn the remarksThe silence of other elected representatives present at the programme may be construed by the public as tacit support for such statements Bhandary said adding that political differences cannot justify defamation hate speech or threatsHe further stated that the remarks posed a threat to communal harmony and law and order particularly in the coastal region and said he would take up the matter with the State Home Minister to seek appropriate directions for expediting the investigationIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-bjp-mla-threatens-to-destroy-lop-rahul-gandhis-family-like-babri-masjid-fir-registered-694714.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 11:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rising-operational-costs-payment-delays-sink-12-lakh-msmes-shiv-sena-694728.html Mumbai July 29 The Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray UBT on Wednesday citing the Central governments data presented in the Lok Sabha said that in the last three years more than 125 lakh industries and factories in the country have shut down Hundreds of thousands of young people have lost their jobs The Thackeray camp in an editorial in the partys mouthpiece Saamana claimed that this has completely exposed and stripped bare the governments claims of bringing in thousands of crores in foreign investment and generating lakhs of jobs by establishing thousands of new industriesA sob story of industries closing the old and starting the new has been unfolding in the country for the last 12 years Under a regime that fills the minds of youth with religious fanaticism instead of placing jobs in their hands what else could possibly happen it askedThe editorial said that as per government data a total of 121805 Micro Small and Medium Enterprises MSME units closed operations between 2024 and 2026 The MSME sector is widely regarded as the backbone of the Indian economy serving as the secondlargest employer after agriculture and contributing significantly to national exports Despite its critical role the rate of unit closures has seen a continuous upward trajectory over the past decadeThe shutdown of MSME units has hit several industrial states severely Maharashtra recorded the highest number of closures with 28764 units shutting down Tamil Nadu stood second with 14176 unit closures Gujarat reported 11150 closed units Rajasthan saw 9881 MSME units permanently cease operations These figures contradict the official claims regarding massive foreign investment inflows and largescale job creation through new industrial ventures noted the editorialAccording to the editorial over the past 10 years the government made available over Rs 35 lakh crore in loans to support startups and operations in the micro small and medium enterprise sector However business owners have struggled against mounting market challenges rising operational costs and persistent procedural bottlenecks Key factors contributing to earlystage business failure include inadequate or delayed access to bank credit at reasonable interest rates prolonged payment delays from large corporations for supplied goods and bureaucratic delays in releasing payments owed by government departments remarked the Thackeray campWhile state leaders and central ministers frequently engage in global outreach including events like the World Economic Forum in Davos to attract new industrial setups critics point out a lack of concrete measures to revive ailing existing units argued the editorialCiting the Maharashtra case the Uddhav Thackerayled Shiv Sena said that while the state registered over 75 lakh new enterprises over the last three years it simultaneously lost more than 28000 existing MSME units The absence of targeted rehabilitation programmes for sick industrial units continues to lead to rising NonPerforming Assets NPAs for banks and sudden job losses for young workers across the country it commentedThe editorial claimed that no measures are being taken at the government level to support them rebuild them or revive these sick industries Due to this fend for yourself policy not only are small industries sinking but bank loans are defaulting and the livelihoods of thousands of young people working there are suddenly snatched away IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rising-operational-costs-payment-delays-sink-12-lakh-msmes-shiv-sena-694728.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:03:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-bjp-chief-targets-cjp-protesters-shares-saurav-das-old-post-on-umar-khalid-694737.html New Delhi July 29 Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on student protesters urging students and parents to carefully choose whom to support In a post on X Chandrasekhar shared an old social media post by Cockroach Janta Party CJP national spokesperson Saurav Das about former JNU student leader Umar Khalid along with a photograph showing Das and Khalid togetherAddressing what he described as students with âgenuine grievancesâ Chandrasekhar wrote âTo the many genuine students and their parents who protested with their genuine grievances take a look at this pic and its msg And choose who you are with wiselyâHe went on to criticise those he accused of pursuing divisive politics saying âBecause if you think your future is going to be shaped by morons whose ideology is Dividing and breaking up India you need to wake up to reality of these peopleâThe BJP leader also asserted that protests turning violent would not be accepted âProtests and violence led by this clique should not and will not be tolerated under any label including student protests wont happenâEmphasising national unity and democratic values Chandrasekhar added âAnyone Anywhere who tries to undermine our country our democracy our integrity under whatever label it is our yours and mine and every Indian to oppose itâHe further wrote âWe didnt come so far as a nation with all our pluses and minuses to be undermined by this lot WILL NOT HAPPENâIn a postscript he remarked âPS I too am just realizing now about thisthese âstudentsââThe post shared by Chandrasekhar was an older X post by CJP national spokesperson Saurav Das who had expressed support for Umar Khalid Das had written âMulaqat with the bravest Umar Khalid 5 years in jail over false frivolous chargesâa permanent blot on Indiaâs judiciary Mad respect for him and his undying spiritâChandrasekhar shared Dasâ post along with a photograph showing the two standing together using it to question the ideological affiliations of those associated with recent student protests His remarks come amid an ongoing political debate over studentled demonstrations and the role of activist groups with political parties continuing to trade accusations over the nature and intent of the protests IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-bjp-chief-targets-cjp-protesters-shares-saurav-das-old-post-on-umar-khalid-694737.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/severed-human-head-found-on-cricket-ground-in-bengaluru-police-launch-probe-694738.html Bengaluru July 29 In a shocking case a severed human head was found on a cricket ground in Kodathi under the Varthur police limits in Bengaluru Karnataka on Wednesday According to police the gruesome discovery was made by a group of boys who had arrived at the ground early in the morning to play cricket They noticed the severed head lying on the premises and immediately alerted the Varthur policePolice personnel rushed to the spot and conducted a preliminary inspection However the remaining parts of the body have not yet been tracedInvestigators are examining CCTV footage from the surrounding areas to ascertain the circumstances leading to the incident Police suspect that the severed head was brought to the ground on a motorcycle as tyre marks believed to be of a twowheeler were found at the sceneThe Varthur police are gathering preliminary information and have launched an investigation into the caseFurther details including the identity of the victim and the motive behind the crime are yet to emergeThe incident has created panic among residents of the area while police continue their efforts to piece together the sequence of eventsOn August 10 2025 the severed head and dismembered body of a woman were found stuffed in multiple plastic bags along the road at Kolala village in Koratagere in Tumakuru According to police initially on August 7 seven covers with the womans body parts stuffed were brought to their notice by passersby Later Koratagere police combed the crime spot and found seven more plastic bags stuffed with body parts and the head on August 8 The police zeroed in on the identity of the woman with the help of the headThe police probe revealed that the killers came in a car to dispose of the body stuffed in plastic bags They found that they were scattered all along the road connecting Chimpuganhalli and Venkatapura villagesThe victim was identified as 42yearold Lakshmidevamma Police arrested her soninlaw a local dentist named Dr Ramachandrappa S and two accomplices who confessed to chopping the body to destroy evidence following family conflicts IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/severed-human-head-found-on-cricket-ground-in-bengaluru-police-launch-probe-694738.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/any-student-who-wants-to-do-activism-should-face-police-i-faced-during-emergency-jp-nadda-in-rs-694740.html New Delhi July 29 IANS Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha JP Nadda on Wednesday said any student activist who wants to do activism should face police actionnbspHe said this when John Britas raised the issue of Delhi Police personnel barging into the CPIM office in DelhinbspThe Rajya Sabha witnessed heated exchanges and sloganeering after members raised the issue of Delhi Police officials allegedly entering the national headquarters of the CPIM on Tuesday to arrest student leader Aishe Ghosh a former president of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students UnionAfter papers and reports were laid Chairman CP Radhakrishnan permitted members to raise matters with permissionJohn Brittas of the CPIM drew the Houses attention to the incident He said police personnel barged into a national political party office CPIM to arrest a student leader Aishe GhoshBrittas stated that her only alleged offence was participation in a student protest at Jantar Mantar When questioned the officers cited pending cases from 202021 I have no problem with Delhi Police action as this is a bipartisan issue but it is shocking that they came without prior information to you CP Radhakrishnan What do they want to send fear I want the Home Minister to tell us what happened he saidLeader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge seconded the concern calling it very shameful that police barge into a national party office and try to arrest a leader He demanded that the officers involved be punishedOpposition members continued sloganeering and pressed for action against the police personnelResponding to this Leader of the House JP Nadda said he himself had been a student leader and was arrested during the Emergency It is normal law and order activity which the police have to take he remarked and said Any student who wants to do activism should face police even I faced many times during the EmergencyHis reply triggered further uproar with opposition voices drowning out other speakersWhen Rajib Bhattacharjee of the BJP Tripura sought to make a statement opposition members persisted with slogans and disruptionThe Chairman later adjourned the House till noonEarlier when the House assembled at 11 am papers were laid by Jayant Chaudhary for the Ministry of Education Nityanand Rai for the Ministry of Home Affairs Prof SP Singh Baghel for the Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry and Dairying BL Verma for the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and Savitri Thakur for the Ministry of Women and Child DevelopmentSajjad Ahmad Kichloo and M Nagaraja then laid on the Table a copy of the TwentySeventh Report Eighteenth Lok Sabha of the DepartmentRelated Parliamentary Standing Committee on Coal Mines and Steel 202526 on Infrastructure Development to Augment Washed Coal Production pertaining to the Ministry of CoalArjun Ram Meghwal moved a motion seeking the Houses concurrence with the Lok Sabhas recommendation that the Rajya Sabha elect two of its members to the Joint Committee on Offices of Profit The vacancies arose from the retirement of NR Elango effective April 2 2026 and Deepak Prakash effective June 21 2026 The House resolved to elect the members in the manner directed by the ChairmanIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/any-student-who-wants-to-do-activism-should-face-police-i-faced-during-emergency-jp-nadda-in-rs-694740.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/dvac-raids-ex-dmk-minister-senthil-balajis-properties-in-tns-karur-in-corruption-probe-694743.html Chennai July 29 The Directorate of Vigilance and AntiCorruption DVAC on Wednesday conducted simultaneous searches at multiple premises linked to former Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK leader V Senthil Balaji in Karur district as part of an investigation into alleged corruption cases registered against him The searches began at around 7 am at Senthil Balajiâs residence in Rameswarapatti near Karur and other locations associated with him and his close aidesMore than 10 DVAC officials backed by police security participated in the operation which continued for several hoursAccording to officials searches were carried out at five locations including Senthil Balajiâs ancestral house near Manmangalam the residence of his aide Subramani the house of DMK functionary Bhaskaran and the residences of Karthi and Ramesh in the Kodainagar areaInvestigators were seen examining documents and other materials as part of the ongoing probeThe raids come against the backdrop of multiple cases pending against the former minister These include allegations relating to the cashforgovernment jobs scam the alleged Rs 1000crore irregularities in the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation TASMAC and the alleged Rs 397crore corruption in the procurement of transformers The investigations into these cases are being pursued by different agenciesSenthil Balaji is also facing a separate criminal case relating to an alleged conspiracy to destabilise the ruling TVK government In that case he and his younger brother Ashok Kumar have been directed to appear daily before the Triplicane Police Station in Chennai as part of the conditions imposed by the court while granting them anticipatory bailThe investigation into the alleged conspiracy case is being supervised by senior police officers led by Deputy Commissioner JayachandranOfficials have stated that evidence is being collected from multiple sources as part of the inquiry while the accused have denied any wrongdoingThe searches on Wednesday are expected to focus on gathering documentary and digital evidence that could assist investigators in the corruption casesThe DVAC has not yet issued an official statement on the outcome of the raids or disclosed whether any documents electronic devices or valuables were seized during the operationFurther details are expected after the searches are completed IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/dvac-raids-ex-dmk-minister-senthil-balajis-properties-in-tns-karur-in-corruption-probe-694743.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rjd-mp-sudhakar-singh-attacks-nishikant-dubey-over-nehru-remarks-694751.html New Delhi July 29 Reacting to BJP MP Nishikant Dubeyâs remarks in the Lok Sabha RJD MP Sudhakar Singh on Wednesday said that Dubey does not speak on serious issues in Parliament but keeps on abusing and maligning great leaders The remarks came amid a political controversy triggered during a debate in the Lok Sabha where BJP MP Nishikant Dubey referred to Indiaâs first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru leading to an uproar in the HouseThe Lok Sabha witnessed heated exchanges on Tuesday after Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra made remarks about newly appointed Education Minister Pralhad Joshi during a discussion on the Public Examination Prevention of Unfair Means Amendment Bill 2026 The comments were later expunged from the House records prompting protests from Treasury Bench members and demands for an apology from the Congress leaderPriyanka Gandhi Vadra made the remarks while participating in the debate on the bill Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and Kiren Rijiju accused her of making personal attacks and indulging in âcharacter assassinationâSpeaking to reporters outside Parliament Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi defended Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modiâs choice of Education MinisterSpeaking to IANS RJD MP Sudhakar Singh launched a sharp attack on Nishikant DubeyâHe is not Nishikant Dubey he is âNeechkantâ Dubey His only job is to weaken Indian democracy He does not speak on serious issues in Parliament Instead he abuses and maligns the great leaders who fought for Indiaâs freedom He does nothing beyond that He is a person associated with criminals In the coming days we will present many facts and pieces of evidence against himâ Singh saidCommenting on the political situation in Bihar Sudhakar Singh claimed that the BJPâs position had weakened and predicted that the party would perform poorly in the Bankipore electionSudhakar Singh said The Bharatiya Janata Partys condition has worsened Owing to the student movement and the police firing on students in Bihar as well as the encounter of Bharat Tiwari the governments image has been severely damaged On the other hand you will see that in the Bankipore election the BJP will fall behind The Rashtriya Janata Dal has always remained the strongest opposition party and our support base has become stronger Rekha Gupta will win the election there IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rjd-mp-sudhakar-singh-attacks-nishikant-dubey-over-nehru-remarks-694751.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/hyderabad-police-officer-suspended-on-allegation-of-sexually-exploiting-woman-694757.html Hyderabad July 29 Station House Officer SHO of Jubilee Hills Police Station in Hyderabad has been suspended following allegations of sexually exploiting a woman and blackmailing and threatening her Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar issued orders suspending Station House Officer U Srinivasulu Reddy An announcement to this effect was made late on Tuesday nightFollowing the allegations by a 31yearold woman from Sangareddy district the officer was sent to the Vacancy Reserve After the preliminary investigation the Commissioner ordered his suspension pending a departmental inquiry The woman had complained to the Director General of Police DGP CV Anand that Srinivasulu sexually assaulted her forced her to undergo an abortion and threatened her She also accused him of physically assaulting herShe alleged that the SHO was blackmailing her by threatening to post her personal videos and demanding that she pay Rs 2 crore She claimed she had paid several thousands of rupees on different occasionsThe incident dates back to 2021 when she approached Ameenpur police station over a family dispute Srinivasulu was then serving as an inspector there She alleged that he later contacted her regarding the case and gradually demanded sexual favoursThe woman alleged that Srinivasulu later asked her to visit his residence in KPHB and when she refused he threatened to come to her house She alleged that he later sexually assaulted her at his residence She also claimed that he took her to a hospital when she became pregnant where she underwent an abortionThe woman also alleged that Srinivasulu had paid Rs 25 lakh to get posted as Jubilee Hills SHO Reddy who was posted as SHO of Jubilee Hills just four months ago denied the allegations He reportedly told senior officials that the woman threatened him and extorted money from himPolice are likely to record the statements of both the suspended officer and the complainant as part of the investigation into the allegations IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/hyderabad-police-officer-suspended-on-allegation-of-sexually-exploiting-woman-694757.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-issues-notice-on-ex-cong-mlas-plea-against-delhi-hc-order-refusing-stay-on-conviction-694759.html New Delhi July 29 IANS The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued notice on a plea filed by former Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti challenging the Delhi High Courts refusal to suspend his conviction in the 1998 Rural Development Bank fraud case but refused to stay the conviction leaving his disqualification as an MLA in force for nownbspA Bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta sought responses from the prosecution and the Zila Sahkari Krishi Gramin Vikas Bank through its General Manager and posted the matter for hearing after four weeksWith the apex court declining to stay the conviction at this stage Bhartis disqualification as a member of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly will continueBharti has challenged the July 10 judgment of the Delhi High Court which had refused to suspend his conviction awarded by a Special MPMLA court in New Delhi In its judgment the Delhi High Court held that suspension of conviction is an extraordinary power that should be exercised only in exceptional circumstances and found no apparent infirmity in the trial courts findingsRejecting Bhartis plea that the impending Datia Assembly byelection constituted an irreversible consequence warranting suspension of conviction a singlejudge Bench of Justice Manoj Jain observed The answer has to be in the negativeThe Delhi High Court held that such hardship was not unique to Bharti but flowed from the statutory scheme governing disqualification of elected representativesIt had further said that merely because a person is an MLA or MP whose electoral prospects are affected cannot be a ground to stay the conviction adding that in the absence of a serious infirmity or a fundamental flaw the judgment of conviction is not liable to be stayedsuspendedOn a prima facie assessment of the record the Delhi High Court had found no palpable or manifest error in the trial courts judgmentIt observed that the material on record indicated that the fixed deposit tenure was allegedly altered in stages from three years to 10 years and eventually to 15 years enabling a family trust linked to Bharti to continue receiving interest at 135 per cent for years beyond the original maturity periodThe Special MPMLA court had convicted Bharti and coaccused Raghuvir Sharan Prajapati under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code including Sections 120B 420 467 468 471 and 409 in connection with alleged financial irregularities involving a fixed deposit at the District Cooperative Agriculture and Rural Development Bank in Datia in 1998According to the prosecution Bharti and others conspired to manipulate the fixed deposit and continued drawing higher interest even after its maturityBharti was sentenced to three years imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 1 lakh Though his sentence was suspended and he was granted bail the conviction remained in force resulting in his immediate disqualification under Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act 1951 read with Article 1911e of the Constitution and the Supreme Courts 2013 judgment in the Lily Thomas caseHis conviction led to the termination of his membership of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly and the Datia Assembly seat being declared vacant by the Assembly Secretariat following which the Election Commission of India notified the byelectionIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-issues-notice-on-ex-cong-mlas-plea-against-delhi-hc-order-refusing-stay-on-conviction-694759.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 12:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-ports-q1-net-profit-rises-10-pc-to-rs-3-650-crore-revenue-climbs-19-pc-to-rs-10-821-crore-694766.html Ahmedabad July 29 IANS Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited APSEZ on Wednesday reported a 10 per cent yearonyear YoY increase in its consolidated net profit to Rs 3650 crore for the quarter ended June 30 2026 Q1 FY27 supported by strong growth across its domestic and international ports marine and logistics businessesnbspnbspThe companys consolidated revenue rose 19 per cent to Rs 10821 crore during the AprilJune quarter from Rs 9126 crore in the corresponding period last financial year Q1 FY26 according to its stock exchange filingThe companys earnings before interest taxes depreciation and amortisation EBITDA grew 19 per cent yearonyear to Rs 6541 crore from Rs 5495 crore a year ago as per its filingAPSEZ said its international ports business emerged as a key growth driver during the quarter with revenue surging 80 per cent yearonyear to Rs 1747 crore while EBITDA jumped 256 per cent to Rs 730 croreThe company attributed the strong performance to robust operations in Australia and Colombo highlighting the increasing maturity of its overseas portfolioOur Q1 FY27 performance underscores the strength of our diversified business model combining global reach with a multimodal asset base across geographies commodities and customers Ashwani Gupta Wholetime Director ampamp CEO saidOur domestic ports business continued to deliver strong growth and remains the bedrock of APSEZs earnings while International Ports Marine and Logistics have transitioned decisively from scaleup to scalevalue becoming increasingly important drivers of revenue growth and profitability Gupta addedIts domestic ports business also maintained momentum with revenue rising 12 per cent yearonyear aided by higher cargo volumes an improved cargo mix and better realisationsThe segment continued to deliver industryleading profitability with an EBITDA margin of 74 per centThe marine business recorded significant expansion during the quarter with revenue increasing 67 per cent yearonyear to Rs 901 crore driven by the addition of offshore vessels and expansion of its European subsea operationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-ports-q1-net-profit-rises-10-pc-to-rs-3-650-crore-revenue-climbs-19-pc-to-rs-10-821-crore-694766.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 13:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-led-fta-strategy-opens-access-to-60-trillion-markets-piyush-goyal-694776.html New Delhi July 29 IANS Indias recent Free Trade Agreements FTAs with major economies are opening access to markets worth nearly 60 trillion and supporting the countrys push to become a global export hub Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership for the trade expansion strategynbspA video shared by the minister on social media platform X highlighted that the FTAs negotiated under PM Modis leadership were aimed at expanding market opportunities for Indian exporters boosting manufacturing and creating jobsHeres why India is signing multiple Free Trade Agreements with major economies Goyal said in the post adding that the agreements were providing access to some of the worlds largest marketsIndias exports have grown by 73 per cent over the last five years with FTAs helping sectors such as textiles gems and jewellery engineering goods and pharmaceuticals gain access through lower or zeroduty benefits the video showedIt further noted that the trade agreements also safeguard sensitive sectors including dairy and agriculture while creating opportunities for investment inflowsMoreover these FTAs are also bringing billions of dollars in investment boosting manufacturing creating jobs and helping Indian businesses enter global value chainsIndia has been actively pursuing trade agreements with key economies to enhance market access for domestic exporters and integrate Indian businesses with global supply chainsThe government has been highlighting FTAs as a key component of its strategy to strengthen exports attract foreign investment and expand Indias manufacturing capabilitiesThe agreements reflect the governments vision of positioning India as a major player in global trade and transforming the country into an exportdriven economy Goyal saidAdditionally the government informed Parliament on Tuesday that India recorded its highestever exports at 8631 billion in FY202526Merchandise exports stood at 4418 billion while services exports expanded further to 4213 billion during the fiscal reflecting the combined strength of Indias goods and services sectors in driving overall export growth The data was shared by Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada in the Lok SabhaIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-led-fta-strategy-opens-access-to-60-trillion-markets-piyush-goyal-694776.html Wed, 29 Jul 2026 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/madras-hc-to-hear-dmk-mlas-bail-plea-today-in-threat-to-cm-vijay-case-694535.html Chennai July 28 The Madras High Court is scheduled to hear on Tuesday the bail plea of Vilathikulam DMK MLA GV Markandayan who was arrested in connection with a case alleging that he threatened Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay during a public meeting in Thoothukudi district The case arose from a speech delivered by Markandayan at a public meeting held in Kovilpatti to thank voters following the recent Assembly electionThe Thoothukudi District Crime Branch registered a case against the legislator alleging that his remarks amounted to threatening the Chief Minister and had the potential to disturb public orderAfter his arrest Markandayan sought bail before the Thoothukudi District Court but his plea was rejected prompting him to move the Madras High CourtWhen the petition came up before Justice Ilanthiraiyan counsel appearing for the MLA argued that the speech was made as a political response to remarks allegedly made by the Chief Minister about âlocking the doors of the AssemblyâThe defence maintained that the speech was part of legitimate political criticism and did not constitute a criminal threat or an attempt to incite violenceThe petitioner further contended that the arrest violated constitutional safeguards alleging that the police failed to inform him of the grounds of arrestThe defence also challenged the judicial remand order issued by the Thoothukudi court arguing that it was legally unsustainable because the arrest itself did not comply with the prescribed legal procedureAccording to the defence the police neither conducted a preliminary inquiry nor issued a notice directing the MLA to appear for questioning before taking him into custodyThe alleged incident took place on July 18 while the complaint was lodged around midnight on July 19 An FIR was registered in the early hours of July 20 and Markandayan was arrested later the same dayThe petitioner has maintained that his speech was not intended to provoke violence or disturb public order As the hearing could not be concluded during the previous sitting Justice Ilanthiraiyan adjourned the matter for further argumentsThe High Court is scheduled to resume hearing the bail plea and it is likely to hear the remaining submissions before deciding whether to grant bail to the MLA or dismiss the petition IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/madras-hc-to-hear-dmk-mlas-bail-plea-today-in-threat-to-cm-vijay-case-694535.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 11:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/congress-releases-list-of-four-speakers-for-ls-debate-on-anti-paper-leak-bill-694562.html New Delhi July 28 IANS Leader of Opposition LoP Rahul Gandhi MPs Priyanka Gandhi KC Venugopal and Jothimani Sennimalai will speak for the Congress party in the Lok Sabha during the debate on the antipaper leak Bill on TuesdayThe Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Amendment Bill 2026 was introduced in the Lok Sabha by the Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh on MondayEarlier on Tuesday Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla mentioned that the House will take up the antipaper leak Bill for discussion at 2 pmHe urged the members not to disrupt the proceedings during Question Hour However the din did not fade and the Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 pmThis Bill seeks to amend the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024The proposed amendment aims to enhance transparency and integrity in the examination system through stricter legal provisions while ensuring that the future of students remains fully protectedAmong the key features are stringent penalties including imprisonment of up to 10 years a fine of up to Rs 10 crore confiscation of assets of those found guilty and the establishment of a mechanism to ensure verdicts are delivered within three monthsThe move follows the Union Cabinets approval of the Bill and related provisions designed to establish fasttrack courts and provide harsher punishment in cases involving paper leaks and examination fraud after weeks of massive protests in the national Capital over the issueThe initiative comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that a comprehensive Bill containing provisions for strong action against paper leaks would be introduced in ParliamentAs per the proposal the fasttrack courts will be mandated to complete trials and deliver judgments within three months ensuring swift justice in examinationrelated offencesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/congress-releases-list-of-four-speakers-for-ls-debate-on-anti-paper-leak-bill-694562.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 12:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-hints-at-retired-judge-led-sit-orders-no-coercive-action-against-student-protesters-694566.html New Delhi July 28 IANS The Supreme Court on Tuesday indicated that it may constitute a Special Investigation Team SIT headed by a former apex court judge to probe allegations of police excesses as well as attacks on police personnel during the recent nationwide student protests over the alleged NEETUG 2026 paper leak while directing that no coercive action be taken against protesters having no criminal antecedentsnbspnbspA Bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana observed that the allegations placed before it prima facie warranted a fair and independent investigation and sought responses from the Union government and the state governments of Assam Bihar Kerala Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Uttar Pradesh and West BengalThe allegations made by petitioners prima facie make out a case for an independent and fair probe Such a probe will effectively address the allegations the CJI Kantled Bench observedThe apex court also directed the immediate release of all minors detained during the protests across different states and ordered that students arrested or detained solely for participating in the demonstrations be released if they have no criminal antecedentsClarifying that the protection would not extend to persons with criminal backgrounds the CJI Kantled Bench directed that no coercive steps be taken against student protesters having no criminal antecedents until further ordersIt also ordered preservation of all CCTV footage drone recordings bodyworn camera footage wireless communications PCR logs and other electronic records relating to the protests It further directed that the personal information and digital data of student protesters collected by police be preserved but not brought into the public domain for the time beingDuring the hearing the top court said the incidents required a thorough and transparent inquiry and indicated that a highpowered committee under the supervision of a retired Supreme Court judge may be constituted after considering the responses of the Centre and the state governmentsThe CJI Kantled Bench also observed that the existing protocol governing public protests may require modification These agitations in democracy are bound to be the apex court remarked adding that an appropriate mechanism should be activated whenever such situations ariseSenior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan appearing for one of the petitioners submitted that the matter was not confined to Delhi but concerned police action against student protesters across the countryReferring to videos allegedly showing police personnel without name tags indulging in violence he urged the top court to order an independent probe under the supervision of a former Chief Justice of India The senior counsel further claimed that despite the Supreme Court taking cognisance of the matter a Bihar police officer had used an AK47 rifle against studentsSenior advocate Shyam Divan referred to instances of alleged use of electric shock batons against protesters and videos purportedly showing a senior police officer threatening students with false narcotics cases if they returned to the protestsSenior advocate Shadan Farasat submitted that the scale of violence in Bihar was more severe than in Delhi and said around 150 persons mostly minors continued to remain in custody despite the Bihar governments announcement that criminal cases against protesters would be withdrawnFarasat also alleged that lawyers in Delhi were assaulted by police even after the crowd had dispersedAdvocate Prashant Bhushan highlighted the case of Junaid Malik a volunteer who allegedly supplied food to protesters claiming that he was picked up by police and later abandoned in MussoorieSenior advocate N Hariharan suggested that the petitions pending before the Delhi High Court be transferred to the apex court and sought continuation of the High Courts directions preserving electronic evidenceSolicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for the Union government and Delhi Police supported an independent probe while highlighting that two sets of petitions were before the top court one alleging police brutality against students and another concerning injuries suffered by police personnelIf students were attacked it is a serious matter and the government cannot take it lightly SG Mehta submitted while adding that around 250 police personnel had also sustained injuriesThe Solicitor General said it was possible that antisocial elements had infiltrated the protests and that the students themselves may not have been responsible for the attacks on police personnelAs a State we also cannot do anything that would demoralise the police force Ultimately there may be one version another version and then the truth It is the truth that must emerge before this Court he submittedThe CJI Kantled Bench observed that it would also have to examine whether those responsible for attacks on police personnel were actually students participating in the demonstrationsThe matter has been posted for further hearing next weekThe apex court is hearing a batch of petitions seeking panIndia guidelines to safeguard the Constitutional right to peaceful protest in the wake of allegations of excessive police force during student demonstrations in Delhi and several other states over the alleged NEETUG 2026 paper leakOn Monday the Supreme Court had observed that the right to peaceful and lawful protest is constitutionally protected and stressed that allegations of police excesses as well as violence against police personnel require an impartial examinationIt had also indicated that a uniform nationwide protocol may be necessary to regulate the handling of public protests while balancing the rights of demonstrators and law enforcement agenciesEarlier the Delhi High Court had issued notice to the Centre and Delhi Police on a batch of PILs alleging excessive use of force during the July 20 Sansad Chalo protest and directed preservation of CCTV footage videography and other electronic records connected with the incidentIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-hints-at-retired-judge-led-sit-orders-no-coercive-action-against-student-protesters-694566.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 13:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-meets-assam-mps-discusses-flood-situation-694568.html New Delhi July 28 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi met MPs from Assam including Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Pabitra Margherita and discussed the flood situation in the state He assured them of the Central governments full supportSharing details of the meeting in a post on X Prime Minister Modi said the discussion focused on the flood situation in Assam and reiterated that the Central government is working in close coordination with the state government to assist those affected by the disasterMet MPs from Assam and discussed the prevailing flood situation in various parts of the state The Centre is working closely with the Assam Government in assisting those affected I pray for everyones safety and wellbeing PM Modi postedThe meeting assumes significance as Assam continues to battle widespread flooding caused by heavy rainfall which has affected several districts inundated vast areas and disrupted normal lifeRelief and rescue operations are continuing in many floodhit regions with thousands of displaced people staying in relief camps established by the state administrationThe Prime Ministers assurance comes amid sustained efforts by the Centre and the Assam government to mitigate the impact of the floodsMultiple Central agencies including the National Disaster Response Force NDRF have been assisting the state authorities in rescue operations evacuation of stranded residents and distribution of relief materialsThe Assam government has been providing food drinking water medicines and other essential supplies to affected families while simultaneously working to restore damaged roads power supply and communication networks in floodaffected areasAuthorities are also monitoring the condition of embankments and river levels as intermittent rainfall continued in several parts of the state raising concerns over fresh inundation in vulnerable locationsThe MPs are understood to have briefed the Prime Minister on the ground situation and ongoing relief measures while seeking continued Central assistance for rescue rehabilitation and restoration works in the floodaffected districtsThe Centre has reiterated that it will continue to extend all necessary support to the Assam government to ensure timely relief and rehabilitation for those impacted by the floodsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-meets-assam-mps-discusses-flood-situation-694568.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 13:49:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/more-opportunities-for-women-in-coast-guard-policy-reforms-also-to-benefit-kin-of-those-missing-at-sea-694612.html New Delhi July 28 IANS The Indian Coast Guard ICG is set to get more gender neutral through the induction of women candidates into both Short Service Appointments SSA and Permanent Appointments PA at par with their male counterpartsnbspnbspThe SSA has also been opened for male candidatesDefence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled two significant policy reforms for the ICG on Tuesday aimed at promoting gender parity in the induction and service conditions of officers and streamlining the administrative procedures for granting exgratia to the families of personnel reported missing at sea while on dutyDefence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh ICG DG Paramesh Sivamani and other senior officials attended the eventThe ICG has always been a gender neutral force as women have been inducted as officers and have served as Dornier aircraft and Air Cushion Vehicle hovercraft pilots apart from performing administrative dutiesThe new policy will open up further opportunities for women by ensuring equal opportunities for career progression commencing right from the abinitio training phaseThe existing PA women officers shall also be considered for promotion to higher positions subject to fulfilment of eligibility conditionsThe existing serving women officers on SSA will also be provided an option to convert their service to a PA subject to the fulfilment of stipulated conditionsThis progressive step reflects the Governments commitment to Nari Shakti and equal opportunity in the nations maritime security apparatus the Ministry of Defence MoD has said in a statementThe second policy reform aims to bring relief to the next of kin of the personnel who go missing at sea in the line of dutyAuthorities will henceforth declare an ICG personnel missing at sea while on duty as presumed dead for the purpose of exgratiaThis will significantly ease and accelerate the process for the grant of exgratia compensation and terminal benefits to the familiesThis measure ensures that the families of brave personnel are not subjected to prolonged administrative delays during times of mental trauma the MoD has saidSingh lauded the ICG for its exemplary service over the past five decades and exuded confidence that these forwardlooking policies will further strengthen the morale and operational efficacy of the force as it marches toward its Golden Jubilee in 2027The Defence Minister also reaffirmed the Prime Minister Narendra Modiled governments resolve to strengthen the ICG as a modern capable and futureready maritime forceIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/more-opportunities-for-women-in-coast-guard-policy-reforms-also-to-benefit-kin-of-those-missing-at-sea-694612.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 17:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/amit-malviyas-one-liner-seen-as-bjps-message-never-underestimate-pm-modi-694619.html New Delhi July 28 IANS A cryptic Hindi post by BJP National Information ampamp Technology Department incharge Amit Malviya has sparked political discussion with many interpreting it as an expression of confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership amid the latest political developmentsMalviya wrote on X Cheete ki chaal baaz ki nazar aur Bajirao ki talwar par sandeh nahi karte kabhi bhi maat de sakti hai Loosely translated into English the statement means One should never doubt the stride of a cheetah the vision of a hawk and the sword of Bajiraothey can outmanoeuvre anyone at any momentThe timing of the post has drawn attention It came amid an intensified Opposition offensive against Prime Minister Modi following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Union Education MinisterOpposition parties have projected the development as a political setback for the Prime Minister claiming it reflects that the government yielded to sustained protests led by the Cockroach Janata Party The narrative that the Opposition has been pedalling suggests the resignation of Pradhan means that the Modi government was compelled to retreat under mounting public and political pressureAgainst this backdrop Malviyas brief but pointed message is being viewed by political observers as carrying a larger political subtext While the BJP leader did not mention either the Prime Minister or the ongoing controversy by name the post has been widely interpreted as conveying unwavering faith in PM Modis leadership and strategic abilitiesPolitical observers say that the imagery invoked in the messagea cheetahs speed a hawks sharp vision and the legendary swordsmanship of Bajiraosymbolises agility foresight and decisive actionThe post is seen as suggesting that despite the current political criticism PM Modi possesses the ability to regain the initiative and checkmate his opponents when the moment so demandsMalviyas oneline post seems to have added another dimension to the debate BJP backers interpret it as a reminder that the party leadership believes PM Modi retains the strategic acumen and political strength to reverse adverse narratives and regain the upper hand despite sustained attacks from the OppositionIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/amit-malviyas-one-liner-seen-as-bjps-message-never-underestimate-pm-modi-694619.html Tue, 28 Jul 2026 18:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/imd-warns-of-torrential-rain-today-across-several-states-694415.html New Delhi July 27 IANS The India Meteorological Department IMD has issued a weather alert warning of intense monsoon activity including torrential rainfall thunderstorms lightning and strong winds across several states on Mondaynbsp According to the latest IMD bulletin the next 14 hours are expected to be particularly critical for several states as heavy rain and severe weather conditions intensifynbspThe weather department has warned that wind speeds may reach up to 80 kmph in some areas raising the risk of uprooted trees power outages traffic disruptions and waterlogging in lowlying localities Farmers travellers and residents living near rivers and coastal regions have been advised to remain cautious In hilly states authorities have also cautioned against possible landslides and sudden rises in river water levels due to persistent rainfallThe IMD has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Himachal Pradesh Jammu ampamp Kashmir Ladakh and Uttarakhand throughout the week Rainfall activity is also expected to intensify over Punjab Haryana Chandigarh Delhi Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan from Monday onwards with several places likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall during the weeknbspIn addition to heavy rain the weather department has warned of thunderstorms lightning and gusty winds in parts of Rajasthan and Uttarakhand urging people to avoid open areas during adverse weatherEastern India is also expected to witness significant monsoon activity in the coming days According to the IMD Odisha Gangetic West Bengal SubHimalayan West Bengal and Sikkim Jharkhand and Bihar are likely to receive widespread rainfallnbspAmong these states Odisha is expected to experience the most intense spell with heavy to very heavy rainfall and isolated places likely to receive extremely heavy rainfall on July 27 Jharkhand is also likely to witness heavy rainfall while rainfall activity is expected to increase across Bihar during the weekThe IMD has advised state authorities to remain on alert and urged the public to follow official weather advisories avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and take necessary precautions in areas prone to flooding waterlogging and landslides as the monsoon remains active across large parts of the countryIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/imd-warns-of-torrential-rain-today-across-several-states-694415.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 08:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/oppn-mps-move-adjournment-notices-in-parliament-over-police-action-on-neet-protesters-694420.html New Delhi July 27 IANS Several Opposition Members of Parliament on Monday submitted adjournment motion notices in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha demanding an immediate discussion on what they described as the brutal unprovoked disproportionate use of force by the Delhi Police and security personnel against students protesting at Jantar Mantar on July 20The notices come in the wake of the largescale Sansad Chalo protest held in New Delhi on July 20 where hundreds of students participated in a demonstration organised by the Cockroach Janta Party CJP against the NEET paper leaks and other examinationrelated irregularitiesnbspThe protesters had also demanded the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan from the post of Union Education Minister Pradhan subsequently tendered his resignation on July 25The demonstration later turned violent following which security personnel resorted to the use of force to disperse the crowd During the clashes several protesters as well as police personnel sustained serious injuriesCongress MPs KC Venugopal Manickam Tagore Hibi Eden and Vijayakumar alias Vijay Vasanth submitted separate adjournment motion notices in the Lok Sabha seeking a discussion on what they termed brutal unprovoked and disproportionate use of force by the Delhi Police against protestorsnbspAccording to the notices the security personnel resorted to the use of excessive and lethal force including pellet guns and shock batons against the protestors at Jantar Mantar which led to consequent grave injuries including probable loss of eyesight suffered by student protestorsIn the Rajya Sabha Congress Syed Naseer Hussain submitted a Suspension of Business Notice under Rule 267 seeking an immediate discussion on the alleged excessive use of force against students who were peacefully protesting in Delhi on July 20 2026Meanwhile DMK MP TR Baalu also submitted an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha calling for an immediate ban on NEET and an inquiry into the alleged indiscriminate use of lethal weapons against students protesting at Jantar MantarMeanwhile the Central government is set to introduce the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Amendment Bill 2026 in Parliament on Monday as part of its legislative agenda to further strengthen the legal framework against paper leaks and examination malpracticesnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/oppn-mps-move-adjournment-notices-in-parliament-over-police-action-on-neet-protesters-694420.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 10:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/fcnr-b-deposits-may-have-surpassed-2013-level-of-26-billion-in-just-45-days-sbi-report-694422.html New Delhi July 27 IANS India may receive FCNR B deposits in the range of 6570 billion by the end of the RBI scheme on September 30 and overall 8085 billion an SBI Research report said on MondaynbspThe RBI figure of 20 billion inflows till July 17 came as a positive reprieve chiefly with a smart FCNR B corpus of 174 billionWe now estimate that FCNR B since then has already crossed 2013 level of 26 billion in just 45 days said Dr Soumya Kanti Ghosh Group Chief Economic Adviser SBIThe RBI data indicates that FCNR B deposits worth 174 billion have been mobilised till July 17 2026 and trend suggests that PSBs are major drivers of this mobilisationnbspWe also believe that significant majority of existing FCNR deposits which are going to mature in AugustSeptember 2026 will be renewed under the new scheme gravitated by higher interest rates and will boost the FCNR B inflows the report mentionednbspPreliminary estimate indicate that amount worth 10 billion on a conservative basis in addition to base line estimates are going to be mobilised mostly through those economies where tax concessions are availableNevertheless given the current trend we believe that total amount mobilised so far in 45 days has easily crossed the total amount mobilised in 2013 in three months the report notedHowever broader markets are still wrestling with the corelation of these flows with first FCA position and why the exchange rate has continued to weaken even after such strong capital inflowsnbspPublic Sector Banks front led by larger banks are apparently anchoring the drive ensuring incremental flows by leveraging not only the deposits but also the trust built with materially significant clientele credit worthiness and risk profile duly factored spread across various geographies and remaining tacitly agile by shifting their strategy to an optimally blended OnshoreOffshore game plannbspThe RBI intervention in the foreign exchange market has been somehow sporadic and not full throttled ever since the disturbances in West Asia has broken outnbspRupee has moved 360 degrees from being a shock absorber to not being a shock absorber It is therefore important to not let the Rupee travel 360 degrees again but ensure its implied resilience to checkmate exogenous shocks without losing competitiveness the report saidnbspThis is important given frictions in trade and supplyvalue chains geopolitical risks and skewed capital flowsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/fcnr-b-deposits-may-have-surpassed-2013-level-of-26-billion-in-just-45-days-sbi-report-694422.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 11:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-to-introduce-public-examinations-amendment-bill-with-tougher-anti-paper-leak-measures-694423.html New Delhi July 27 IANS The Union government will introduce the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Amendment Bill 2026 in Parliament on Monday as part of its legislative agenda to further strengthen the legal framework against paper leaks and examination malpracticesnbspUnion Minister Dr Jitendra Singh will table the Bill which seeks to amend the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024 A government notification regarding its introduction has already been issuedThe proposed amendment aims to enhance transparency and integrity in the examination system through stricter legal provisions while ensuring that the future of students remains fully protected Among the key features are stringent penalties including imprisonment of up to 10 years a fine of up to Rs 10 crore confiscation of assets of those found guilty and the establishment of a mechanism to ensure verdicts are delivered within three monthsThe move follows the Union Cabinets approval on Friday of a Bill and related provisions designed to establish fasttrack courts and provide harsher punishment in cases involving paper leaks and examination fraud according to official sources The proposed legislation is expected to be taken up in Parliament next weekThe initiative comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that a comprehensive Bill containing provisions for strong action against paper leaks would be introduced in ParliamentnbspAs per the proposal the fasttrack courts will be mandated to complete trials and deliver judgments within three months ensuring swift justice in examinationrelated offencesEarlier in a video message posted on his official X account Prime Minister Modi said the Central government had prepared a comprehensive draft Bill to introduce stricter provisions and severe punishments for those involved in paper leak cases He also posted More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrows CabinetExpressing concern over the impact of examination irregularities the Prime Minister said paper leaks cause immense distress to students and their families He noted that over the past twoandahalf months the Union government has taken several measures that led to the arrest and imprisonment of those responsible for such offencesHighlighting the governments commitment to safeguarding the interests of students the Prime Minister said all available resources were mobilised to ensure examinations for nearly 22 lakh 22 million candidates were conducted without delaynbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-to-introduce-public-examinations-amendment-bill-with-tougher-anti-paper-leak-measures-694423.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 11:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/peaceful-protest-cannot-justify-police-excess-uniform-protocol-needed-sc-694424.html New Delhi July 27 IANS The Supreme Court on Monday said the Constitutional right to peaceful protest must be protected and stressed that allegations of police excesses as well as violence against security personnel during demonstrations require an impartial examination while indicating that a uniform nationwide protocol may be needed to govern the handling of public protestsnbspA Bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana hearing a batch of petitions arising out of the recent nationwide student protests over the alleged NEETUG 2026 paper leak said that merely because there is an agitation cannot justify the use of excessive force by police while at the same time stressing that attacks on police personnel also cannot be overlookedThe right to peaceful lawful protest is absolutely guaranteed under the Constitution So long as it is peaceful agitation merely because there is agitation there cant be police excess the CJIled Bench observedThe apex court added that if any excess has been committed it should be independently examined and clarified that the issue was not confined to Delhi aloneIf there is excess committed it should be independently examined Its not only a case of Delhi Uniformity in protocol is required Merely because there is agitation doesnt mean lathicharge Discipline is integral to the democratic process the CJI Kantled Bench observedDuring the hearing Justice Bagchi remarked that injuries suffered by both protesters and police personnel were matters of equal concernInjury to an individual be it to policemen or protesters is of equal concern We may call upon the State to explain why adequate protective gear was not provided to police to handle such situations Justice Bagchi observedThe top court also said there should be a protocol to facilitate peaceful demonstrations while enabling authorities to deal with antisocial elements if anyThere should be a protocol in place There should be proper space and no restriction But if there are some antisocial elements that can be taken care of This is not a question of Delhi only Uniformity of protocol is needed Just because there is agitation does not mean there is lathicharge Selfevolved discipline is essential to the democratic process the Bench saidAppearing for one of the petitioners advocateonrecord Fauzia Shakil informed the CJI Kantled Bench that a fresh writ petition had been filed on behalf of Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha containing comprehensive material including allegations relating to the recent police firing in BiharThere are two petitions dealing with the violence that took place across the country on the students protest senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan submitted urging that all matters be heard together as allegations of police excesses were continuingSenior advocate Vikas Singh also pressed for panIndia directions contending that incidents were not confined to Delhi and that an allIndia framework was requiredAnother counsel appearing for families of injured police personnel sought permission to participate in the proceedings alleging that several policemen had been brutally assaulted during the protestsResponding to the rival submissions the CJI Kantled Bench said that while peaceful protest is a Constitutional right allegations of violence by protesters also required scrutinySolicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for the Union government submitted that the Centre would assist the apex court dispassionately and suggested that all connected petitions be heard togetherAccepting the suggestion the CJIled Bench directed that all pending petitions be listed together on Tuesday for further hearingThe matter relates to allegations of excessive use of force against students participating in protests across the country over the alleged NEETUG 2026 paper leak and related examination issuesEarlier CJI Kant had clarified that the Supreme Court had never declined to hear the issue but had merely refused to entertain a onepage representation that had not been instituted as a proper writ petitionRefuting media reports the CJI had explained that only a onepage representation had been submitted at the time and not a duly filed petitionThe Supreme Court can never deny hearing of any case he had said adding that once properly instituted petitions were filed the top court agreed to list themLast week the Delhi High Court issued notice to the Centre and the Delhi Police on a batch of PILs claiming excessive use of force by police during the protest and directed preservation of CCTV footage videography and other relevant records connected with the July 20 Sansad Chalo march organised over the NEET paper leakObserving that the allegations did not relate to isolated incidents for which individual victims could simply be relegated to filing separate complaints a Division Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia sought responses from the authorities within four weeks and directed preservation of all relevant electronic records including CCTV footage and videography in accordance with the standard operating procedures issued by the policeDuring the hearing before the Delhi High Court senior advocates N Hariharan Gopal Sankaranarayanan and Vikas Singh appearing for different petitioners alleged that students exercising their Constitutional right to protest were subjected to disproportionate force including lathicharge use of tear gas and other coercive measures and sought registration of FIRs preservation of electronic evidence and an independent probeOn the other hand Additional Solicitor General SV Raju appearing for the Centre and Delhi Police opposed the PILs contending that prohibitory orders were in force the crowd had turned violent police personnel were injured and public property was damagedThe Centres law officer argued that the petitions were based largely on social media videos and that those alleging assault could avail statutory remedies instead of invoking the High Courts writ jurisdictionRejecting the contention that every affected individual should be relegated to filing separate complaints the Delhi High Court had observed that if the allegations pertained to a larger incident involving police action during a public protest they could not be brushed aside merely on that ground The matter is scheduled to be heard next on September 11IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/peaceful-protest-cannot-justify-police-excess-uniform-protocol-needed-sc-694424.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-arrests-businessman-from-bengals-durgapur-on-charges-of-human-trafficking--694425.html Kolkata July 27 IANS The National Investigation Agency NIA on Monday arrested a businessman Ghulam Raza from his residence at the industrialcumsteel township of Durgapur in West Burdwan district of West Bengal after conducting a raid and search operationnbspThe main charge against Raza is his involvement in human trafficking especially of womenRaza an original resident of Muzaffarpur in Bihar shifted to Durgapur along with his wife and two sons three years ago and settled there He purchased a house which is adjacent to the Durgapur Steel Plant areaIt is learnt that one of the businesses that he was associated with was that of a travel agency through which he used to arrange overseas jobs for a large number of migrant workers from the stateHowever under the garb of supplying migrant workers to countries especially to the West Asian countries he has been accused of involvement with a racket that arranged forged passports for the workers being supplied to these countriesWhen a team of six NIA officials including one woman officer accompanied by forces from the AsansolDurgapur Police Commissionerate started the raid at Razas residence it was not clear what the reasons were behind the operationHowever after his arrest the reason behind the NIA operation became clear It is learnt that Raza himself used to frequent these countries where he sent migrant workers and trafficked young womenFinally after marathon questioning during the raid and search operation Raza was arrested and the NIA sleuths brought him out of his house covering his face It is learnt that he is likely to be presented at an NIA court in Kolkata later in the day and his custody will be soughtHe will be interrogated by central agency sleuths to get information about his associates involved with the racketLast week the West Bengal cabinet led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari cleared a proposal to set up an NIA Police Station in Kolkata The eastern regional headquarters of the central investigative agency is located in Salt Lake in the northern outskirts of Kolkata and all operations of the agency are currently managed from thereHowever following the increase in workload for the NIA due to the increasing number of cases in West Bengal a proposal has now been adopted by the state cabinet to establish a separate NIA police station in the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-arrests-businessman-from-bengals-durgapur-on-charges-of-human-trafficking--694425.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/avoid-ruckus-students-must-remain-priority-rijiju-to-oppn-on-discussing-anti-paper-leak-bill-694442.html New Delhi July 27 IANS Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Monday appealed to the Opposition to allow the House to function smoothly and participate in a detailed discussion on the exam amendment bill saying the proposed legislation is aimed at safeguarding the future of students and strengthening the countrys examination systemThe Centre introduced the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Amendment Bill 2026 in the Lok Sabha on Monday amid intense sloganeering by the Opposition benchesSpeaking to reporters after the adjournment Rijiju accused Congress and several Opposition parties of avoiding a discussion on a legislation that directly concerns students across the countryToday a very important bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha addressing the concerns of students across the country and the paper leak incident However the Congress Party and some Opposition parties are avoiding discussion on it They are disrupting the proceedings of the House through sloganeering placards and other means Rijiju said when asked about the Opposition sloganeeringAppealing to the Opposition to cooperate the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already constituted a highpowered task force to recommend comprehensive reforms in the examination system and ensure strict action against those involved in paper leaks and examinationrelated crimesIn this direction the government has introduced this historic and revolutionary Bill to effectively prevent such incidents from happening in the future he saidRijiju further argued that preventing discussion on such legislation would send an incorrect message to students across the country urging the Opposition to consider their concernsIf this important Bill is still not allowed to be discussed in Parliament it will send a wrong message to the students of the country I urge the Congress party to understand the sentiments of the students he addedThe Union Minister also said Parliament is the most appropriate platform for discussing issues of national importance and expressed disappointment over the ruckusEven when the protests were taking place this issue could not be discussed meaningfully in Parliament This is neither appropriate for Parliament nor for democracy Parliament is the highest forum for debate and discussion If such important issues wont be discussed here where will they be he saidRenewing his appeal Rijiju urged all political parties to set aside political differences and participate in a constructive debate on the proposed legislationThis is a historic bill Do not disrupt the proceedings he addedThe Union Minister also called for a consensus across party lines saying the Bill should be debated in detail and passed unanimously in the interest of students All parties should express their views and unanimously pass this Bill he saidResponding to the Oppositions demand that Union Home Minister Amit Shah be held accountable for the police action against student protesters Rijiju said the focus should remain on examination reforms and student welfare rather than shifting attention to other issuesI simply want to say dont deviate from the topic The highest priority at this time is the welfare of the countrys students The comprehensive reforms that have been implemented to make our examination system more robust transparent and reliable should be seriously discussed in Parliament he saidThe Minister further urged the Opposition not to divert attention from the proposed legislation maintaining that students interests should remain the central focus of Parliaments deliberationsPlease do not try to divert the issue or change the topic The welfare of students their future and their interests should be our top priority at this time No other topic should be brought up in Parliament at this time as this will divert attention from the core issue he saidOur priority is to pass this Bill in favour of the students Rijiju addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/avoid-ruckus-students-must-remain-priority-rijiju-to-oppn-on-discussing-anti-paper-leak-bill-694442.html Mon, 27 Jul 2026 13:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-interact-with-participants-of-viksit-vibrant-village-programme-2026-today-694324.html New Delhi July 26 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with participants of the Viksit Vibrant Village Programme 2026 on Sunday at 430 PM through video conferencing According to an official statement issued by the Prime Ministerâs Office PMO âPrime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will interact with participants of the Viksit Vibrant Village Programme 2026 on 26 July 2026 at 430 PM via video conferencingâThe programme has been implemented through MY Bharat and is aimed at strengthening development and community participation in Indiaâs border villages The PMO said the initiative has been designed in line with the Prime Ministerâs vision of transforming frontier villages into active contributors to the countryâs developmentThe official statement noted âThe Viksit Vibrant Village Programme implemented through MY Bharat has been conceptualised to realise Prime Ministerâs vision of treating Indiaâs border villages as the first villages of the nation and making them active partners in the journey towards Viksit BharatâThe Viksit Vibrant Village Programme 2026 was conducted in two phases between June 4 and June 30 2026 covering 74 vibrant villages across Ladakh Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand More than 400 young participants representing every State and Union Territory were selected through a nationwide online quiz competition that attracted participation from over three lakh youthDuring the programme participants stayed with local communities to gain firsthand experience of life in Indiaâs border regions They were involved in a wide range of communitybased activities including Swachhta drives awareness campaigns on government schemes Yuva Sammelans cultural exchange programmes tree plantation drives Mini Model Panchayat simulations interactions with local artisans and visits to institutions of strategic importanceHighlighting the programmeâs broader objectives the PMO stated âThe programme provided participants with firsthand exposure to the socioeconomic landscape cultural heritage and developmental aspirations of Indiaâs frontier regions while fostering community participation national integration and a deeper understanding of the strategic importance of border villagesâThe interaction with the participants is expected to provide an opportunity for the Prime Minister to hear their experiences from the field and reinforce the governmentâs focus on inclusive development and the strategic importance of Indiaâs border villages The initiative forms part of the broader vision of building a Viksit Bharat by ensuring that remote frontier communities play an active role in the nationâs growth and development IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-to-interact-with-participants-of-viksit-vibrant-village-programme-2026-today-694324.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 08:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/senthil-balaji-brother-questioned-again-in-plot-to-topple-vijay-govt-694357.html Chennai July 26 The investigation into the alleged conspiracy to destabilise the Vijay government gathered pace on Sunday with former Electricity Minister V Senthil Balaji and his younger brother Ashok Kumar appearing before the Triplicane Police for a second consecutive day of questioning in connection with the highprofile MLA poaching case The case stems from a complaint filed by Uthangarai TRC MLA Dr Ilayaraja before Chennai Police Commissioner Amal Raj alleging that a largescale conspiracy was hatched under the guise of what has been described as the âMeghalaya Projectâ to lure away 15 legislators in an attempt to bring down the ruling TVK governmentBased on the complaint the Triplicane Police registered a case and launched an extensive investigationAccording to the complaint Dr Ilayaraja was allegedly offered a bribe of Rs 35 crore to switch political allegiance Investigators believe the alleged operation was part of a broader plan to engineer defections within the ruling party and alter the political balance in the stateThe police have so far arrested 14 people in connection with the caseFormer Minister Senthil Balaji and his brother Ashok Kumar have also been named as accused during the course of the investigationEarlier the Chennai Principal Sessions Court granted anticipatory bail to both Senthil Balaji and Ashok Kumar subject to stringent conditions As part of the bail order the two have been directed to report to the Triplicane Police Station every morning and evening sign the attendance register and extend full cooperation to the investigating officersIn compliance with the courtâs directions the brothers appeared before the police station on Saturday and again on SundayPolice sources said they were questioned separately by a Special Investigation Team led by Triplicane Deputy Commissioner Jayachandran along with Additional Deputy Commissioner Kumaragurubaran and Assistant Commissioner AzhaguInvestigators reportedly confronted the duo with documents seized during the probe and posed more than 50 questions relating to the alleged conspiracy financial transactions and the purported efforts to influence elected representativesPolice officials said the questioning forms part of the ongoing investigation to establish the alleged network behind the attempted poaching of MLAsThe investigation remains active and officials indicated that further rounds of interrogation and additional arrests are not being ruled out as the probe progresses IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/senthil-balaji-brother-questioned-again-in-plot-to-topple-vijay-govt-694357.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/trinamool-student-wing-leader-held-in-financial-fraud-case-in-purulia-694358.html Kolkata July 26 Trinamool Chhatra Parishads TMCP Purulia district president Kiriti Acharya has been arrested on charges of alleged financial fraud police said on Sunday He was arrested in Purulia on Saturday night and is scheduled to be produced before a local court Police are expected to seek his custody for further investigation According to police multiple complaints had been lodged against Acharya including allegations of financial irregularities He had not been seen since the Trinamool Congresss defeat in the Assembly electionsAcharya who had been active on social media had remained silent since then and did not take part in any political activities He was finally arrested on Saturday night and taken to the police stationSince the split in the Trinamool Congress he was with the original but minority faction of the party led by former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee However he was not seen in public since the partys defeatDuring the Trinamool regime he constantly attacked the BJP and the central government on various issues on social media However after the change of government in the state he was not even seen on social media at all He also remained out of public viewOn Saturday police arrested him based on a complaint lodged by some locals in Purulia town accusing him of financial fraudThe arrest comes days after police arrested Sujoy Banerjee vicepresident of the Purulia Zilla Parishad in connection with an alleged fraud linked to the BJP governments Annapurna Yojana for women His nephew Kripasindhu Banerjee vicepresident of the Puncha Panchayat Samiti was also arrested in the same caseWith Acharyas arrest another Trinamool leader has come under police scrutiny in Purulia amid ongoing investigations into alleged financial irregularities IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/trinamool-student-wing-leader-held-in-financial-fraud-case-in-purulia-694358.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-placed-full-trust-gave-me-the-responsibility-of-education-ministry-says-pralhad-joshi--694361.html New Delhi July 26 IANS After taking additional charge of the Ministry of Education on Sunday Pralhad Joshi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed full trust in him and hence given him the new responsibility while adding that he is holding backtoback meetings to review all details regarding the education portfolionbspPralhad Joshi who currently serves as the Union Minister for Food and Consumer Affairs took over the additional responsibility of the Education Ministry following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan amid nationwide protests over examination paper leaksSpeaking to the reporters after assuming the charge Joshi said The Honourable Prime Minister has placed full trust and given me this responsibility I was in Karnataka yesterday reached here at night and came here this morning to take charge and handle the portfolioAll details whatever we need to see make decisions on gather information about I have tried to understand the entire ministry From roughly 1000 am until 300 pm I held continuous meetings The subject is new to me so after fully understanding it I will talk to you in detail he addedEarlier in a post on X Joshi said Today I assumed charge as the Union Minister for Education I am grateful to Honble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji for placing his faith in me and entrusting me with this responsibilityI accept it with humility and a deep sense of duty he addedJoshis appointment comes at a time when the Education Ministry has been under intense public and political scrutiny due to widespread student protests demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in various competitive examinationsThe Presidents Secretariat confirmed Dharmendra Pradhans resignation through an official communique issued on Saturday According to the communique President Droupadi Murmu acting on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepted the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan from the Union Council of Ministers with immediate effect The resignation was accepted under Article 752 of the ConstitutionThe President has simultaneously assigned Pralhad Joshi the additional charge of the Ministry of Education He will continue to oversee his existing Food and Consumer Affairs portfolio while heading the Education MinistryPradhans resignation marks a significant change in the Union Cabinet as he had been leading the Education Ministry during a period of heightened student unrest over alleged paper leaks and examinationrelated controversiesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-placed-full-trust-gave-me-the-responsibility-of-education-ministry-says-pralhad-joshi--694361.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/dont-make-citizens-run-from-pillar-to-post-for-services-fm-sitharaman-to-it-officials-694362.html Mumbai July 26 IANS Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday urged Income Tax Department officials to ensure that citizens do not have to run from pillar to post for services stressing the need for greater efficiency integrity and citizencentric governance while expressing concern over the laidback functioning of government departmentsnbspSpeaking after inaugurating the 13storey Aaykar Sindhu building here FM Sitharaman said the experience of the Income Tax Department in obtaining clearances for its own office building should serve as a lesson in understanding the difficulties faced by ordinary citizens dealing with government officesRecalling the challenges encountered during the construction of the new office the finance minister asked officials to ensure that people receive services they are entitled to without unnecessary delaysCan this incentivise you to understand the position of a common citizen when he approaches you Dont make them run from pillar to post where your authority is required do the work for them FM Sitharaman said while clarifying that officials should not bypass rules but must facilitate legitimate requests efficientlyFinance Minister also expressed disappointment over the manner in which government assets are managed pointing to illegal encroachments on land belonging to the Income Tax DepartmentFM Sitharaman noted that the land on which the 113 lakh sq ft Aaykar Sindhu building has been constructed had been allotted to the department in 1973 but illegal occupations had gradually come up over the years delaying the development of the propertyThe fact that you led it to have occupations illegal occupation shows somewhere in our governance we are too laid back It is somebodys job to take care of our assets and when it is encroached we say We have the land but we cant build it the finance minister saidFM Sitharaman also addressed concerns raised by Income Tax officials over the shortage of official residential accommodation in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai acknowledging that many officers are forced to undertake long daily commutesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/dont-make-citizens-run-from-pillar-to-post-for-services-fm-sitharaman-to-it-officials-694362.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/dharmendra-pradhans-resignation-reinforces-ministerial-accountability-ktaka-dy-cm-694364.html Tumakuru July 26 Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara has welcomed the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stating that it reinforces the principle that those holding positions of responsibility must be accountable for lapses within their departments Speaking to reporters in Tumakuru Parameshwara said the resignation sends a strong message about ministerial accountability in matters of national importanceThe resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan is welcome It has further strengthened the responsibility of ministers to own accountability in issues of national significance he saidReferring to the NEET examination controversy the Deputy Chief Minister noted that the entrance test plays a crucial role in shaping the future of lakhs of students across the country However allegations of question paper leaks had undermined the credibility of the examination and caused widespread anxiety among students and their parentsStudents across the country had staged protests demanding strict action against those responsible for the question paper leak and seeking the resignation of the concerned Union Minister Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured that stringent action would be taken against the guilty Let us wait and see whether legal action is initiated against those responsible Parameshwara saidHe added that Pradhans resignation establishes an important precedent in public administration by reaffirming that individuals in positions of authority must answer for failures occurring within their respective departmentsThis sends a clear message to the nation that those in positions of responsibility must be held accountable for mistakes in their departments It will help strengthen the culture of accountability in public administration in the years to come he saidParameshwara reiterated that greater accountability in governance would contribute to improving public trust in institutions and ensure higher standards of administrative responsibilityBJP leader and Leader of Opposition in the Assembly R Ashoka accused the Congress leadership of adopting double standards on accountability alleging that the party follows one yardstick when in opposition and another when in powerRahul Gandhi Priyanka Gandhi and DK Shivakumar are three faces of one hypocrisy Ashoka said alleging that the Congress ecosystem routinely demands resignations and lectures the nation on accountability while taking a different stand in KarnatakaThe BJP leader claimed that instead of focusing on systemic reforms to prevent future question paper leaks strengthen recruitment processes and safeguard the interests of students the Chief Minister had chosen to hold Deputy Commissioners accountable for such failures IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/dharmendra-pradhans-resignation-reinforces-ministerial-accountability-ktaka-dy-cm-694364.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-bjp-demands-accountability-from-congress-government-citing-pradhans-exit-694366.html Bengaluru July 26 Senior BJP leader and Leader of Opposition R Ashoka on Sunday questioned Karnataka governments accountability over several issues Training guns at the state government Ashoka said that if Union Ministers are expected to take political and administrative responsibility for incidents of national importance similar standards should apply to state governmentsUnion Ministers have resigned taking political and administrative responsibility in the wake of developments related to the NEET examination Then who will take moral and administrative responsibility for the serious incidents that have occurred in Karnataka he askedReferring to allegations surrounding the recruitment of veterinary officers by Karnataka Public Service Commission KPSC Ashoka cited reports of an audio clip purportedly suggesting an â¹80 lakh deal for a single post and demanded a comprehensive independent and transparent investigation into the matterWho will take responsibility for these allegations Who will resign he askedLeader of the Opposition also raised the issue of the stampede during the IPL victory celebrations in which 11 people lost their lives He questioned who would assume moral and administrative responsibility for the tragedy and when justice would be delivered to the affected familiesAshoka further alleged that thousands of farmers had died by suicide during the Congress governments tenure and claimed that several borrowers had also taken their own lives due to the alleged failure to curb exploitative microfinance practices in the statePower in a democracy is not merely about holding office it also comes with responsibility When mistakes occur governments must accept accountability instead of shifting blame to officials or escaping through token investigations he saidHe asserted that the truth must emerge in every case legal action should be taken against those found guilty and efforts should be made to restore public confidence in governance IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-bjp-demands-accountability-from-congress-government-citing-pradhans-exit-694366.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kargil-heroes-supreme-sacrifice-will-continue-to-inspire-generations-punjab-cm-bhagwant-mann-694367.html DW Bureaunbsp nbspCHANDIGARHnbspPunjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday paid heartfelt tributes to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice while defending the nations sovereignty asserting that their unmatched valour courage and selfless service would continue to inspire generations The Chief Minister laid a wreath at the War Memorial paid floral tributes to the Kargil War heroes interacted with the families of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice and exservicemen distributed five twowheelers to differently abled exservicemen and encouraged NCC National Cadet Corps cadets as well as cadets of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute and Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute Mohali to join the armed forcesThe Chief Minister reaffirmed the Punjab Governments unwavering commitment to the welfare of the families of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting the nation and exservicemenSharing a snippet from this auspicious occasion CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X On the occasion of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas today I pay my heartfelt tributes to the 527 brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice to safeguard the unity integrity and honour of our nation Among them were 65 courageous sons of Punjab whose sacrifice fills every Punjabi with immense prideSoldiers who made the supreme sacrifice do not belong to just one family they are the nations greatest treasure The freedom and security we enjoy today are the result of the unparalleled sacrifices made by our brave soldiers Remembering their sacrifice and honouring their legacy is the truest tribute we can pay to them Jai Hind the post concludedAddressing the gathering CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said The supreme sacrifice made by our brave soldiers will continue to inspire generations of youth to serve the nation with patriotism dedication and selflessness During the Kargil War 527 soldiers laid down their lives in the service of the nation including more than 65 brave sons of Punjab Their courage and sacrifice will always remain a source of pride and inspiration for every IndianThe Chief Minister pointed out Punjabs history is written with countless sacrifices and nations that honour their history continue to thrive Our martyrs belong not merely to their families but to the entire nation Their sacrifice can never be forgotten and it is our collective responsibility to preserve and honour their glorious legacyPaying homage to the brave soldiers CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated Whether in the icy heights of Kargil or the scorching deserts of Jaisalmer our brave soldiers remain steadfast in protecting the unity integrity and sovereignty of the nation Recalling the 1999 Kargil War fills every Indian with pride because the entire country stood united with an extraordinary spirit of patriotism during that defining momentThe Chief Minister said Kargil Vijay Diwas symbolises the extraordinary courage heroism and sacrifice displayed by Indias armed forces under the most challenging circumstances Every Indian is proud of the unparalleled bravery shown by our soldiers during the conflict Their dedication to the nation can never be repaidHighlighting the Punjab Governments commitment towards the welfare of soldiers and their families Bhagwant Singh Mann said As a mark of respect for the supreme sacrifice of our soldiers the Punjab Government provides financial assistance of 1 crore to the family of every soldier who attains martyrdom in the line of duty This is our humble effort to recognise the invaluable service rendered by the brave men and women of our armed forcesReferring to his interaction with NCC cadets and cadets of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute and Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute Mohali the Chief Minister said Serving the nation through the armed forces is among the noblest callings I urge our young cadets to dedicate themselves to this great cause The Punjab Government will extend every possible support and cooperation to help them realise their dreams of serving the nation They can become role models for future generations and strengthen the spirit of patriotism and nationalism among our youthProminent among those present on the occasion were Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat and senior officers of the armed forcesCM Bhagwant Singh Mann Pays Tribute to Kargil HeroesPaying solemn tributes to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives while protecting the nation CM Bhagwant Singh Mann laid a wreath at the War Memorial as the Last Post was sounded in their honour followed by a twominute silence The Chief Minister also interacted with exservicemen and the families of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice acknowledging their invaluable service and unwavering commitment to the nation He later took the salute during an impressive Guard of Honour presented by the PAP Band under the leadership of PAP Group Commander DSP Davinder Singh Saini https://dailyworld.in/national/kargil-heroes-supreme-sacrifice-will-continue-to-inspire-generations-punjab-cm-bhagwant-mann-694367.html Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/neet-protest-18-delhi-metro-stations-to-remain-closed-today-694205.html New Delhi July 25 IANS The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation DMRC announced the temporary closure of 18 Metro stations across Central Delhi from 730 am on Saturday until further notice citing heightened security arrangements in view of the ongoing student protests near Jantar Mantar over NEET paper leaksDMRC took to social media X and said Below mentioned Metro stations will be closed from 0730 AM tomorrow 25th July 2026 till further instructions However Interchange facility shall remain available at Rajiv Chowk Mandi House and Central SecretariatAny inconvenience caused is deeply regretted the DMRC addedAs per the advisory entry and exit services have been suspended at Lok Kalyan Marg Rajiv Chowk Patel Chowk Ramakrishna Ashram Marg Barakhambha Road Supreme Court Seva Teerth Janpath Mandi House Central Secretariat ITO Delhi Gate Indraprastha Khan Market Jor Bagh Shivaji Stadium Jhandewalan and New Delhi Metro stations While passengers will not be allowed to enter or exit these stations interchange services at Rajiv Chowk Mandi House and Central Secretariat will continue to operateThe restrictions have been imposed as authorities strengthen security measures across central Delhi in anticipation of large gatherings linked to the continuing protests over the NEET paper leak Saturday marks the fifth consecutive day of Metrorelated restrictions in the national CapitalThe DMRC has urged passengers to plan their travel in advance and make alternative arrangements wherever necessary stating that the temporary closures are purely a precautionary measure to support law and orderThe shutdown has caused widespread inconvenience for daily commuters including officegoers students lawyers and railway passengers As many of the affected stations are located in the heart of the city thousands of people have been forced to depend on road transport leading to traffic congestion and significantly longer travel timesThe closure of the New Delhi Metro Station has particularly affected passengers travelling to and from the New Delhi Railway Station one of the countrys busiest transport hubs The restrictions have also sparked public debate with some questioning whether repeated station closures impede citizens freedom of movementThe Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant expressed concern over the closure of the Supreme Court Metro station which was affecting the functioning of the top courtMeanwhile several commuters reported delays longer waiting times and diversions as they navigated alternate routes across the cityIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/neet-protest-18-delhi-metro-stations-to-remain-closed-today-694205.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 10:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/no-point-in-discussion-if-education-minister-doesnt-resign-cjp-ahead-of-3rd-round-of-talks-with-govt-694206.html New Delhi July 25 IANS The Cockroach Janata Party CJP on Saturday said that even though it welcomes the decision of educational reforms and the amendments to The Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024 established to tackle the problem of paper leaks the main demand remains Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhans resignationThis came hours before the third round of talks with the Centre Earlier on Friday Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh held the second round of talks with the CJP at the Constitution Club where the government had told the CJP delegation that they would get back on their demandsCJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka on Saturday morning made it clear that there was no point in further discussions if the government was not ready to sack Education Minister Dharmendra PradhanSpeaking to the reporters Ranka said In yesterdays meeting we received a positive response regarding compensation and legal cases We got an inprinciple agreement and we hope to receive the written agreement today as well However there has still been no concrete decision on our main demand the resignation of Dharmendra PradhanIn fact as we saw in the mainstream media yesterday sources were saying that Dharmendra Pradhan will not resign If Dharmendra Pradhan is not going to resign then please tell us what the point of holding such meetings is In that case we will move ahead with whatever strategy we decide on next Ranka addedAdditionally amid the paper leak row the government has replaced the Education Secretary and has also sacked 47 officials of the National Testing Agency NTA Reacting to this Ranka said the move alone was not enough and the ultimate accountability lies with the Union Education MinisterNow we will have to examine which 47 officials have been suspended and with what intention that action has been taken We need to look at all those details But again as weve been saying the ultimate accountability lies with the Education Minister of this country because he is directly responsible for all the paper leaks and for all the students who died by suicide after the NEET paper leak Therefore he must resign the CJP spokesperson saidThe Union Cabinet on Friday approved a Draft Bill proposing significantly stricter punishments for paper leaks in competitive examinations hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi publicly committed to introducing fasttrack courts and enhanced penalties to safeguard students futuresThe Cabinet meeting chaired by PM Modi at the Parliament House complex gave its nod to amendments to The Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024In cases of organised paper leaks the Bill proposes a jail term of up to 10 years and a maximum fine of Rs 10 crore This marks a substantial increase over the existing law which provides for three to five years imprisonment for individuals and five to 10 years imprisonment with a minimum fine of Rs 1 crore for organised crimes related to cheating and paper leaksIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/no-point-in-discussion-if-education-minister-doesnt-resign-cjp-ahead-of-3rd-round-of-talks-with-govt-694206.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 10:53:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/may-bhagwan-vitthals-blessings-bring-joy-harmony-and-prosperity-pm-modi-extends-ashadhi-ekadashi-greetings-694207.html New Delhi July 25 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday greeted the nation on the occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi describing the festival as a symbol of devotion compassion and selfless service He prayed for the blessings of Lord Vitthal to bring peace prosperity and harmony to peoples lives while inspiring everyone to work for the welfare of societyPM Modi took to social media X and said Greetings on the sacred occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi This auspicious day is about the eternal message of devotion and compassion May Bhagwan Vitthals blessings bring joy harmony and prosperity and guide us towards a better society May He strengthen our resolve to serve and work tirelessly for the welfare and dignity of every personAshadhi Ekadashi also known as Devshayani Ekadashi or Hari Shayani Ekadashi is being observed on Saturday According to the Drik Panchang the Ekadashi tithi began at 244 am on July 25 and will conclude at 1214 am on July 26The festival marks the beginning of Chaturmas a fourmonth period regarded as highly sacred in Hindu tradition According to ancient scriptures including the Bhavishya Purana and Padma Purana Lord Vishnu enters Yoga Nidra or divine sleep on this day and is believed to awaken on Prabodhini Ekadashi observed later in the yearThe Sanskrit word Devshayani means when the deity goes to sleep Devotees believe this marks the symbolic period of Lord Vishnus divine rest signalling the start of a spiritually significant season dedicated to prayer selfdiscipline and introspectionAs part of the observance devotees begin the day with a holy bath before offering prayers to Lord Vishnu Tulsi leaves flowers fruits and sweets are offered during worship while many devotees recite the Vishnu Sahasranama or chant sacred Vishnu mantras seeking divine blessingsObserving the Ekadashi fast is another important aspect of the festival Fasting practices differ across regions and families with some abstaining from grains and cereals while others observe a stricter fast before breaking it the following day during the prescribed Parana periodActs of charity also hold special significance on Ashadhi Ekadashi Donating food clothes and other essential items to those in need is considered highly meritorious Many spiritual scholars also view the beginning of Chaturmas as an ideal period for meditation selfimprovement disciplined living and deeper spiritual reflection encouraging devotees to focus on inner growth over external celebrationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/may-bhagwan-vitthals-blessings-bring-joy-harmony-and-prosperity-pm-modi-extends-ashadhi-ekadashi-greetings-694207.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 10:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-ncr-braces-for-heavy-rain-as-imd-issues-fresh-monsoon-alert-across-several-states-694208.html New Delhi July 25 IANS The India Meteorological Department IMD on Saturday issued a fresh weather advisory forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of the country over the next few days as the southwest monsoon continues to remain activeAccording to the IMD widespread rain accompanied by thunderstorms lightning and gusty winds is likely to affect several regions including DelhiNCR Rajasthan Himachal Pradesh Uttarakhand Punjab Madhya Pradesh Odisha Gujarat Assam Meghalaya and other northeastern statesGujarat is expected to witness the most intense rainfall during this period with some areas likely to experience extremely heavy showersThe weather department attributed the active monsoon conditions to a lowpressure area over southeast Rajasthan and adjoining Madhya Pradesh This system along with the active monsoon trough and multiple cyclonic circulations is expected to sustain widespread rainfall over northwest central western and northeastern India over the coming daysIn the national Capital Delhi and adjoining NCR are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms on SaturdayThe IMD has indicated that rainfall activity is expected to intensify over the next two to four days with isolated places likely to experience heavy rain from July 27 onwardCloudy skies humid conditions and temperatures close to seasonal averages are expected to persistMumbai and the Konkan region are also likely to witness heavy rainfall with isolated locations expected to receive very heavy showersAuthorities have cautioned that waterlogging in lowlying areas and traffic congestion may occur as persistent monsoon activity continues along Maharashtras coastal beltIn Gujarat Ahmedabad and several surrounding districts are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall with isolated pockets likely to experience extremely heavy spells The IMD has warned that intense rainfall could trigger localised flooding waterlogging and disruptions to normal life in vulnerable areasRajasthan is also expected to remain under the influence of the active weather systemJaipur and several districts in eastern Rajasthan are likely to receive heavy rainfall with isolated extremely heavy showers Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also expected across parts of the stateThe IMD has issued rain and thunderstorm warnings for multiple states including Uttar Pradesh and BiharGusty winds of up to 85 kmph are likely in some areas prompting authorities to advise residents to remain cautiousThe department also warned that hilly regions could face landslide risks while strong winds in eastern India may uproot trees and disrupt transport and power supply in affected areasIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-ncr-braces-for-heavy-rain-as-imd-issues-fresh-monsoon-alert-across-several-states-694208.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 11:15:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/central-district-police-arrest-proclaimed-offender-wanted-in-2014-theft-case-694213.html New Delhi July 25 The Central District Police have arrested a proclaimed offender who had been evading judicial proceedings for several years in connection with a 2014 theft case The accused identified as Malkhan alias Saleem 33 was apprehended by a team from Police Station Dariyaganj following sustained surveillance and local Intelligence inputsAccording to an official press release issued by the Central District Police on Saturday the arrest was made as part of the ongoing special drive against proclaimed offenders aimed at tracing and apprehending absconding accused personsPolice said Malkhan alias Saleem a resident of Ghaziabad Uttar Pradesh had been absconding for several years to avoid legal proceedings The release stated that âthe accused had been evading judicial proceedings to avoid punishmentâ and was ultimately traced through continuous technical surveillance and local Intelligence gatheringA dedicated police team comprising Head Constable Mahaveer Head Constable Sunil and Constable Bhupender was constituted under the supervision of the SHO PS Dariyaganj and the overall supervision of the ACP Dariyaganj to trace the absconding accusedAccording to the police the team conducted multiple raids including at the accusedâs residence but he remained untraceable Investigators continued to develop technical inputs while relying on secret informers to monitor his movementsThe breakthrough came on July 24 when police received specific information that the accused was present near Kashmiri Gate Bus Stop in Delhi Acting promptly on the tipoff the police team reached the location and apprehended Malkhan alias SaleemThe official press release said âOn 24072026 specific information was received that the accused was present at Bus Stop Kashmiri Gate Acting swiftly the team reached the location and at the instance of the informer apprehended Malkhan Saleem from Bus Stop Kashmiri GateâDuring verification police found that the accused had been declared a Proclaimed Offender by the Court of Dr Raj Kumar Singh JMFC05 Central Tis Hazari Courts on January 13 2026 in connection with FIR No 4012014 registered under Sections 379 356 411 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code IPC at PS DariyaganjPolice also revealed that Malkhan alias Saleem has an extensive criminal history According to the press release 54 criminal cases have been registered against him making him a habitual offender with multiple previous involvementsThe accused has been taken into custody and further legal proceedings are being carried out in accordance with the law Police said the arrest is part of their sustained efforts to track down proclaimed offenders and ensure that individuals evading judicial processes are brought before the courts IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/central-district-police-arrest-proclaimed-offender-wanted-in-2014-theft-case-694213.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 12:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-alleges-karnataka-govt-has-turned-bengaluru-into-a-dust-city-694215.html Bengaluru July 25 Senior BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka on Saturday accused the Karnataka government of turning Bengaluru into a âdust cityâ despite its repeated promises of creating a Brand Bengaluru alleging that prolonged civic works have severely inconvenienced residents in several parts of the city In a statement Ashoka said that drinking water and underground drainage pipeline works in areas such as Nagenahalli Road and Shivashankar Block in Hebbal constituency were going on even after nearly a year since they beganHe alleged that the negligence of the Greater Bengaluru Authority GBA and the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board BWSSB has forced residents to endure dust and poor road conditions on a daily basisAccording to Ashoka businesses in the affected areas have suffered significantly due to the prolonged works while senior citizens are finding it difficult to even step out onto the roads He also claimed that drinking water pipelines have been damaged at several locations adding to the hardships faced by local residentsâWhile the government speaks about building a âBrand Bengaluruâ it has in reality transformed the city into a âdust cityâ Ashoka said questioning whether causing inconvenience to citizens in the name of development has become the governments achievementThe BJP leader further criticized the state government alleging that neither the Bengaluru Development Minister nor the local MLA had shown the courtesy of listening to the grievances of the peopleAshoka urged Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda to immediately intervene set a deadline for the completion of the pending works restore damaged roads and ensure that the difficulties faced by citizens are addressed without further delayAshoka further criticised the Karnataka government over the alleged mismanagement of special darshan arrangements at the historical Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysuru accusing authorities of making devotees wait for several hours despite charging them for expedited entryAshoka alleged that devotees were charged Rs 2000 each for special quick darshan with the promise of completing the process within 20 minutes However he claimed that devotees were later made to stand in queues for four to five hours allegedly due to the arrival of VIPsâWhat kind of administration is this Devotees are asked to pay Rs 2000 for special darshan and promised entry within 20 minutes only to be left waiting for four to five hours for VIP visitsâ Ashoka saidHe questioned who would take responsibility for the hardships faced by elderly devotees women and families visiting the temple with young childrenThe BJP leader also targeted Mysuru district incharge minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah and Chief Minister DK Shivakumar alleging that while the government is keen on collecting money from devotees it has failed to ensure a dignified and timely darshan experienceâAshadha month draws lakhs of devotees seeking the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari Respecting their religious sentiments is the responsibility of the government Making ordinary devotees wait for hours in the name of VIP culture is highly condemnableâ he saidAshoka urged the government to ensure a transparent timely and respectful darshan system at the temple and warned against âplaying with the administration of religious institutionsââPeople will never accept an administration that undermines the faith of devotees in the presence of Goddess Chamundeshwari the presiding deity of the stateâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bjp-alleges-karnataka-govt-has-turned-bengaluru-into-a-dust-city-694215.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 12:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/students-demands-non-negotiable-wont-back-off-despite-detention-threats-rahul-gandhi--694220.html New Delhi July 25 IANS Leader of Opposition LoP in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said he met students who observed a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar during the ongoing protest over the paper leaks and examination irregularities asserting that they would not withdraw from the agitation despite detentions or threats from the governmentAddressing reporters after meeting the protesters LoP Rahul Gandhi said the students had placed three nonnegotiable demands before the government the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan action against those responsible for the lathicharge on protesters and an apology from Prime Minister Narendra ModiElaborating on the students demands Rahul Gandhi said the first and foremost requirement was the removal of the Education Minister from the Union CabinetThere are three nonnegotiable demands first the Education Minister who is corrupt incompetent and misaligned has to be sacked There is some talk going on in Mr Modis Cabinet that the solution is to move Mr Dharmendra Pradhan to some other Ministry this is not acceptable to the students of India or anybodyThe reason is Mr Pradhan is a symbol of corruption and of what has happened to the future of Indias children he is a symbol of the destruction of the most valuable thing this country has which is our students and their future LoP Gandhi saidReiterating his stand the Congress leader added There is going to be no conversation of Mr Dharmendra Pradhan being moved anywhere Mr Dharmendra Pradhan has to be sacked PeriodLoP Gandhi also criticised the police action against the protesters stating that many students had suffered injuries during the demonstrations and calling for accountability from those responsibleThere are thousands and thousands of youngsters who have had lathis break their heads and legs pellets in their bodies The organisers and implementors need to be punished and made accountable he saidReferring to Prime Minister Modi LoP Gandhi further said The third thing is the leader of the entire machinery who is doing this Mr Narendra Modi has to apologise for what he has done to the students and the future of this countryThe Lok Sabha LoP also reacted to notices issued by several Delhibased universities including Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University advising students against participating in the ongoing protestsClaiming that the system was attempting to discourage students from continuing their agitation Gandhi said he had assured them that they should not be intimidated by administrative action or threatsThis is all the system that is attacking them students I told them do not worry No amount of strength The entire Indian government every single person from the Indian government cannot remove you from there he saidHe asserted that the students would continue their agitation despite any attempts to stop themDo whatever you want detain threaten but we will not back off They the students will not back off They are the future of India no one can fight them Narendra Modi is Indias past and the past cannot fight the future LoP Gandhi addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/students-demands-non-negotiable-wont-back-off-despite-detention-threats-rahul-gandhi--694220.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 12:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-raids-bengals-birbhum-seizes-explosives-one-arrested-694221.html Kolkata July 25 IANS The National Investigation Agency NIA on Saturday recovered a large cache of explosives including 20 bags of ammonium nitrate and multiple detonators during a raid in the Nalhati area of West Bengals Birbhum district and arrested one suspect in connection with the case officials saidnbspThe recovery of this large quantity of explosives has created a stir in the entire areaActing on specific intelligence inputs about the alleged stockpiling of explosives an NIA team conducted a search operation in Nalhati with assistance from the local police During the raid investigators recovered 20 bags of ammonium nitrate and multiple detonators and detained a suspect whose statements were found to be inconsistent during preliminary questioning His identity has not been disclosed yetThe investigators are interrogating the arrested person to find out who had stored the explosives where the material was brought from and for what purpose it was storedThe NIA is also investigating whether the recovered explosives were stored for commercial use or if there is a plan for a major sabotage behind it It is also reported that the recovered ammonium nitrate and the detonator may be sent for forensic examinationAmmonium nitrate is mainly used as an ingredient in making explosives fertilisers mining or construction However the discovery of a large quantity of the chemical stored with detonators has strengthened investigators suspicionInitially they believed that the explosive was planned to be used in some criminal or sabotage activity However the investigators are probing how accurate this suspicion isMeanwhile security has been tightened in Nalhati and adjoining areas after the incident The NIA has not yet given any further details for the sake of investigation The arrested person is being interrogated continuously He has mentioned several names after which a search has been launched for themThe arrested person will be produced before the special court of the NIA In addition authorities are making efforts to find out who else is involved by investigating the source of the recovered materialAccording to the investigators more important information may come to light from this operationIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nia-raids-bengals-birbhum-seizes-explosives-one-arrested-694221.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 13:36:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-singh-in-srinagar-to-attend-kargil-vijay-diwas-commemorations-694222.html Srinagar July 25 IANS Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived here on Saturday to travel to Kargil by road to attend the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrationsnbspTo participate in the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas Events at Drass the defence minister is taking the road journey to Drass due to inclement weatherOn his arrival at Srinagar International Airport the Defence Minister was received by the Lt Governor Manoj Sinha along with senior civil and security officialsThe Defence Minister was scheduled to travel to Drass by helicopter to attend the commemorative events However due to adverse weather conditions and poor flying conditions the helicopter sortie could not be operatedSubsequently Rajnath Singh proceeded to Drass by road to attend the celebrations The twoday Kargil Vijay Diwas programme commenced on Saturday at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass where the nation will pay homage to the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil WarThe annual event is attended by senior military commanders veterans families of martyrs civil dignitaries and government representatives and commemorates Indias historic victory in the Kargil conflict while honouring the courage sacrifice and valour of the armed forcesKargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 across India The day holds tremendous significance in Indian history and commemorates the victory of the Indian armed forces over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil War This year the day marks the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay DiwasThe day is celebrated for ousting Pakistani Forces from their occupied positions on the mountain tops of Northern Kargil District in Ladakh in 1999Initially the Pakistani army denied their involvement in the war claiming that it was caused by the Kashmiri militantsHowever documents left behind by casualties testimony of POWs and later statements by the then Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif and Pakistan Army Chief of Army Staff Pervez Musharraf pointed to the involvement of the Pakistani paramilitary forces led by General Ashraf RashidIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajnath-singh-in-srinagar-to-attend-kargil-vijay-diwas-commemorations-694222.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 13:52:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/-dharmendra-pradhan-resigns-as-union-education-minister-694227.html New Delhi July 25 IANS Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday tendered his resignation as the Union Education Minister amid the paper leak protests across the nationnbspSubmitting his resignation Pradhan reaffirmed his commitment to youth and education while thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for support framing it as a response to protect exam integrity and students futurenbspThis comes amid the nationwide protests demanding strict action against the paper leaks and exam irregularities and Education Minister Pradhans resignation citing accountabilitynbspIn his letter Pradhan said For over four decades I have dedicated myself to the cause of students teachers and educational reform I have always believed that a robust inclusive and visionary education system forms the cornerstone of a strong nationnbspI deeply respect the aspirations sentiments and legitimate expectations of the countrys youth Realising the dreams of Indias young generation has been a moral commitment in our political and social lives I express my gratitude to the Honourable Prime Minister for the opportunity to serve the nation under his visionary leadership he saidHe said that as soon as the irregularities regarding the NEETUG examination came to light the government taking immediate cognisance of the matter handed the investigation over to the CBI cancelled the exam and announced a date for a reexamination Additionally he said that a decision was made to conduct this exam in CBT ComputerBased Test mode starting next yearnbspThroughout this period our primary priority was to ensure the smooth conduct of the examination for over 20 lakh students We worked towards this using a wholeofgovernment approach in which state governments and particularly district administrations played a crucial role alongside the Government of India With the cooperation of students and parents the examination was successfully concluded on June 21 2026 Pradhan saidFrom day one I took responsibility for the situation and never turned away from it I was determined not to let the potential of any meritorious student be ruined by the exam mafia and to ensure that no student faced injustice he addednbspHe said that during the reexamination results individuals holding responsible positions attempted to create obstacles and mislead students an act he said caused him deep distressnbspI have always held unwavering faith in the strength of our democracy and deeply respected the aspirations dreams and expectations of the youth They are not merely Indias future they are the torchbearers builders and architects of a new and developed India I am pained by the events of the past ten days This is not a matter of personal prestige for me he addedConsidering the situation at Jantar Mantar and across the country to prevent antinational forces from exploiting it preserving national unity ensuring that not a single Indian students future gets entangled in legal complexities and allowing our children to devote their time to studies and focus on building their careers I have submitted my resignation to the Honourable Prime Minister Pradhan saidnbspHe expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister for his guidance trust and constant support and to the Council of MinistersnbspnbspService to the nation is the highest priority of my life I shall remain forever dedicated to it With the blessings of Lord Jagannath I will continue to dedicate myself in every possible way to fulfilling the aspirations of Mother India the people of Odisha and the youth of the country in the future as well he addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/-dharmendra-pradhan-resigns-as-union-education-minister-694227.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 14:35:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-likely-to-introduce-bill-to-amend-paper-leak-law-in-parliament-on-monday--694251.html New Delhi Jul 25 A bill to amend The Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024 which proposes to increase jail term up to 10 years and fine up to Rs 10 crore for offences related to paper leaks is likely to be introduced in Parliament on Monday According to the Bill circulated to members ahead of its introduction individuals involved in paper leaks or unfair means in exams will get jail terms for a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 10 years and a fine of up to Rs 50 lakhnbspFor organised crimes the bill proposes a minimum sentence of seven years and a fine of up to Rs 10 croreAll investigations will have to be completed within two months it saysnbspAll states and UTs will be directed to set up fasttrack courts which will conduct hearings swiftly and complete the trial within three months of filing of the chargesheetAgencies https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-likely-to-introduce-bill-to-amend-paper-leak-law-in-parliament-on-monday--694251.html Sat, 25 Jul 2026 15:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuk-ends-hunger-strike-after-26-day-694070.html New Delhi July 24 Activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday ended his 26day hunger strike in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh doctors family members and supportersnbspWangchuk who had been fasting to press for Ladakhs autonomy and environmental safeguards expressed gratitude as he broke his fastSo with that being fulfilled I am grateful and Ill be happy to break my fast Thank you he said before sipping liquid offered by medical staff and accepting a ceremonial scarfHe acknowledged the presence of leaders from the Apex Body of Ladakh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance KDA thanking them for travelling from Ladakh to support himFamily members blessed him as he sat upright with assistance while doctors confirmed his condition was stableIn a post on his X handle Wangchuk said Just now in the presence of Union Ministers JP Nadda ampamp Dr Jitendra Singh and the senior leaders of Apex Body of Leh Ladakh I finally broke my fast after 26 days Earlier 65 members of parliament from different political parties had visited or signed letters urging me to break the fast This was done after a long negotiation on various conditions and in view of possible violence in the country I will explain the conditions in detail in a separate video very soon Meanwhile I urge you all to stay very vigilant about not allowing violence of any kind anywhereThe activist also thanked his family describing them as a source of strength and support throughout the prolonged fastThe conclusion of the fast followed weeks of appeals from political leaders and civil society groups with concerns mounting over Wangchuks health and the potential for unrestEarlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the Central government has prepared a comprehensive draft Bill to introduce stricter provisions and stringent punishments for paper leak casesThe proposal will be discussed in the Union Cabinet meeting on Friday and is expected to be introduced and passed in the ongoing session of Parliament next weekTaking to his official X account PM Modi in a video message said More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrows CabinetAddressing the deep distress caused by paper leaks to students and their families the Prime Minister said on Thursday that the Union government has taken multiple measures over the past twoandahalf months leading to the arrest and imprisonment of those responsibleI am aware that paper leaks cause immense distress to students and their parents he addedHighlighting the Union governments priority to safeguard the future of examinees PM Modi on his X account said that all resources were mobilised to conduct examinations without delay for nearly 22 lakh 22 million studentsThe results were declared just five days ago on July 19 and we are receiving news of the joy felt by successful students across the country he addedThe Prime Minister emphasised that the Union government will not rest on its laurelsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuk-ends-hunger-strike-after-26-day-694070.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 10:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-announces-strict-anti-paper-leak-legislation-to-be-tabled-in-parliament-next-week-after-todays-cabinet-decision-694079.html New Delhi July 24 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the Central government has prepared a comprehensive draft Bill to introduce stricter provisions and stringent punishments for paper leak casesnbspThe proposal will be discussed in the Union Cabinet meeting on Friday and is expected to be introduced and passed in the ongoing session of Parliament next weekTaking to his official X account PM Modi in a video message said More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrows CabinetAddressing the deep distress caused by paper leaks to students and their families the Prime Minister said on Thursday that the Union government has taken multiple measures over the past twoandahalf months leading to the arrest and imprisonment of those responsibleI am aware that paper leaks cause immense distress to students and their parents he addedHighlighting the Union governments priority to safeguard the future of examinees PM Modi on his X account said that all resources were mobilised to conduct examinations without delay for nearly 22 lakh 22 million studentsThe results were declared just five days ago on July 19 and we are receiving news of the joy felt by successful students across the country he addedThe Prime Minister emphasised that the Union government will not rest on its laurelsHe personally worked tirelessly to prepare a strong proposal for fasttrack courts and stringent punishments for those involved in examination malpracticesThis matter is likely to be discussed in the Cabinet tomorrow and the proposal will be finalised after incorporating suggestions from Cabinet colleagues he toldAs the second week of the Parliamentary session begins on Monday we will strive to have the Bill passed in the House as quickly as possible PM Modi assertedThe proposed legislation is being viewed as a decisive step to deter future incidents of paper leaks and ensure the integrity of competitive examinationsSources indicate that the Bill will include harsher penalties timebound trials through fasttrack special courts and stronger accountability measures for institutions and individuals involved in such crimesThe announcement comes amid growing public concern over recurring leaks in major entrance and recruitment examinationsBy promising swift legislative action the Union government aims to restore confidence among millions of aspirants who prepare rigorously for these exams every yearIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-announces-strict-anti-paper-leak-legislation-to-be-tabled-in-parliament-next-week-after-todays-cabinet-decision-694079.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 10:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cjp-delegation-to-meet-union-ministers-today-as-govt-plans-tougher-anti-paper-leak-actions-694091.html New Delhi July 24 IANS A delegation of the Cockroach Janta Party CJP is set to meet Union government ministers on Friday after the Centre agreed to hold discussions at a neutral venue amid the partys ongoing protest over the NEET paper leak issuenbspThe CJP which has been staging a sitin at Jantar Mantar demanding accountability over alleged examination irregularities said the government accepted its request for talks outside government offices The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Constitution Club of IndiaConfirming the development CJP member Sourav Das said Tomorrow a discussion has been called for we are very happy that the government has agreed to our request that it be at a neutral venue The Constitution Club of India has been chosenThe party has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan holding him responsible for the handling of the NEET paper leak controversy Along with seeking the ministers resignation the CJP has called for a comprehensive overhaul of the countrys education and examination system to prevent future irregularitiesThe proposed talks come a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Centre is preparing to introduce a comprehensive legislation providing for stricter provisions and harsher punishments in cases involving examination paper leaksIn a video message posted on his official X account the Prime Minister said More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrows Cabinet The proposed Bill is expected to be discussed at the Union Cabinet meeting on Friday before being introduced in Parliament during the ongoing session next weekAddressing concerns raised by students and parents PM Modi said the government recognises the anxiety caused by examination leaksI am aware that paper leaks cause immense distress to students and their parents the Prime Minister said adding that the Union government had taken several measures over the past twoandahalf months that led to the arrest and imprisonment of those responsible for the irregularitiesHighlighting the governments efforts to ensure examinations were conducted smoothly despite the controversy PM Modi said all available resources had been mobilised to conduct exams for nearly 22 lakh students without further delayThe results were declared just five days ago on July 19 and we are receiving news of the joy felt by successful students across the country he saidThe Prime Minister also stressed that the government remains committed to protecting the future of students and ensuring the integrity of public examinations indicating that further reforms are on the wayDespite the Centres announcement of a tougher legal framework the CJP has maintained that legislative changes alone are insufficient The party has reiterated that the strictest action the government could take against examination irregularities would be the removal of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan a demand it is expected to raise during Fridays meeting with government representativesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cjp-delegation-to-meet-union-ministers-today-as-govt-plans-tougher-anti-paper-leak-actions-694091.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-flood-death-toll-climbs-to-six-over-72-lakh-affected-in-11-districts-694094.html Guwahati July 24 Floodwaters continued to affect large parts of Assam with 11 districts remaining inundated and more than 721 lakh people impacted while the death toll in the current wave of floods stood at six officials said on Friday According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority ASDMA the floodhit districts are Golaghat Hojai Kamrup Charaideo Jorhat Dibrugarh Sivasagar Nagaon Kamrup Metro Karbi Anglong and TinsukiaA total of 37 revenue circles and 883 villages have been affected while floodwaters have submerged 2537544 hectares of crop area causing extensive agricultural lossesOfficials said Sivasagar remains the worsthit district accounting for 375682 affected people followed by Charaideo with 186351 and Jorhat with 115764 people affectedThe ASDMA said six floodrelated deaths have been reported so far including four in Sivasagar and two in CharaideoNo missing persons were reported in the latest flood bulletinApart from the rural flood situation urban flooding has also affected Kamrup Kamrup Metropolitan and Dibrugarh districtsOfficials said five revenue circles and 17 localities or wards were affected impacting 592 peopleUrban inundation has disrupted normal life in several lowlying areasAuthorities have opened relief facilities across the affected districts with 103 relief camps and 255 relief distribution centres currently operationalMore than 24000 people are staying in relief camps while over 239 lakh people have received assistance through relief distribution centresRescue operations involving the National Disaster Response Force NDRF State Disaster Response Force SDRF Army Fire and Emergency Services district authorities and local volunteers continued in the worsthit districtsOfficials said 4455 people have been evacuated by boats during the ongoing rescue effortsMeanwhile the Central Water Commission reported that several rivers including the Burhidihing Disang Dikhow Dhansiri South and Kushiyara were flowing above the danger level keeping authorities on high alert across the affected regions IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-flood-death-toll-climbs-to-six-over-72-lakh-affected-in-11-districts-694094.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-assures-constructive-dialogue-positive-intervention-on-paper-leak-issue-694095.html New Delhi July 24 The Centre said on Friday that it remains committed to ensuring justice for students and strict action against anyone who tries to compromise their future Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said on X that he and J P Nadda held a detailed discussion with Sonam Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital in GurugramAlong with Union Minister for Health Sh JPNadda Ji met Shri Sonam Wangchuk Ji at Medanta Hospital Gurugram and held a detailed discussion on studentsâ concerns Assured a constructive dialogue and positive intervention from the Government following which Sonam Ji decided to end his fast Dr Singh saidHe further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi the government remains committed to ensuring justice for students and strict action against anyone who tries to compromise their futureActivist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 26day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the Central government and Members of Parliament across political parties that the issue of accountability in the countryâs examination system would be taken up in ParliamentAccording to the governments statement the Centre has responded positively to the key concerns raised by the protestersThe government statement said âGovernment is positive on not registering cases against those protesting peacefully in Jantar Mantar and those participating in the march to Parliament on July 20 2026 Government has already assured a threadbare discussion to find solution to paper leak and educational reforms regarding examination in Parliament Besides the Government is also positively considering suitable compensation for the suicide victims of recent NEET paper leaksâAnnouncing the decision on its official X handle on Friday Wangchukâs team said the fast was called off following commitments from the government regarding key demands raised during the protestâEND OF HUNGERâ BEGINNING OF ACCOUNTABILITYââ the post readIt further stated âSonam Wangchuk ends his fast after 26 days upon getting assurance from the government and members of parliament of all political parties that the issue of accountability in the failing examination system will be discussed on the floors of the Indian Parliament The government also gave assurance that families of suicide victims in the recent NEET examination paper leak will be given adequate compensation and that there will be no cases registered against the peacefully protesting students and youthsâIn a video message shared along with the announcement Wangchuk explained the developments that led to his decision to end the fastâOn the 26th day of my hunger strike I want to share some important information A short while ago Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh came here Leaders of the Ladakh Apex Body were also present Before that as you know around 65 Members of Parliament from different political parties came here signed their support and requested me to end my hunger strike They assured me that the issue of paper leaks would be discussed The same assurance was conveyed by the Union Ministers as well Over the last few days it took some time to receive a written commitment and today I have finally received that written assuranceâ Wangchuk said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/centre-assures-constructive-dialogue-positive-intervention-on-paper-leak-issue-694095.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-pays-homage-to-kargil-martyrs-adjourned-after-oppn-ruckus-till-noon-694099.html New Delhi July 24 IANS The Lok Sabha began its proceedings on Friday by paying homage to the martyrs of the Kargil war and remembering their supreme sacrifice for the nationnbspParliamentarians paid tributes to the Kargil war heroes by observing a oneminute silenceAs the normal proceedings began the Opposition members broke into a din for the fifth consecutive day Speaker Om Birla urged the members to maintain the decorum of the House and let the House proceedings run smoothly but the ruckus persistedExhorting the members to cooperate the Speaker said that the Question Hour remains the most critical period of the House when the public representatives hold the government accountable on issues pertaining to their constituencies and this must not be disruptedI plead to all of you to help and contribute to the smooth functioning of the House he saidFurther advising the Opposition benches to abide by rules he said that the House is ready for structured discussion on all issues but they must come with due proposalsSpeakers repeated requests for maintaining order in the House failed chaos and sloganeering continued following which the House was adjourned till noonEarlier as the Lower House convened for the day Speaker Om Birla informed the House that the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrated on July 26 every year was falling on Sunday this year a holiday and hence the House was paying tribute to the fallen soldiers on this dayOn July 26 2026 the nation will celebrate the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas The day represents the indomitable courage unflinching devotion and selfless sacrifice for the nation he saidHe said the House remembers the unwavering courage and supreme sacrifice of our brave soldiers and pays tribute to their martyrdomThey safeguarded the integrity and sovereignty of the nation by sacrificing their own lives The nation and its countrymen will always remain indebted to their sacrifice Birla saidThis House pays tribute respect and remains grateful to their sacrifice he remarkedThe Lok Sabha also observed one minute of silence to remember the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nationIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-pays-homage-to-kargil-martyrs-adjourned-after-oppn-ruckus-till-noon-694099.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajya-sabha-adjourned-till-2-pm-amid-fresh-ruckus-over-neet-paper-leak-pradhans-resignation-694114.html New Delhi July 24 IANS The Rajya Sabha was once again adjourned till 2 PM on Friday following noisy protests by Opposition members demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak issuenbspAs the House reassembled at 12 noon after an earlier adjournment Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge rose to speak and strongly pressed for the ministers resignationThe demand triggered a din in the House prompting Chairman CP Radhakrishnan to adjourn proceedings till 2 PMThis was the second adjournment of the day In the morning session Congress chief Kharge had also raised the issue of the lathi charge by Delhi Police on protesting studentsThe Upper House on the fifth day of the ongoing Monsoon Session failed to transact any substantive business as Opposition parties continued pressing for a detailed discussion on the NEET paper leak scandal and ministerial accountabilityAt the start of the days proceedings Chairman Radhakrishnan read out a message paying homage to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the Kargil WarFollowing this some papers were laid on the Table and committee reports were presentedMembers including Ghanshyam Tewari and Akhilesh Prasad Singh tabled key Action Taken Reports of the Departmentrelated Parliamentary Standing Committee and the Public Accounts CommitteeDespite these routine proceedings the Oppositions persistent protests prevented any meaningful debate or legislative workThe repeated adjournments reflect the deep divisions between the ruling dispensation and the Opposition over the handling of the NEET controversy that has affected lakhs of students across the countryWith the Monsoon Session progressing both sides are expected to intensify their positions making smooth functioning of the House increasingly challenging in the coming daysThe stalemate has once again raised serious concerns about the productivity of Parliament and the urgent need for resolution on the sensitive educationrelated issueIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajya-sabha-adjourned-till-2-pm-amid-fresh-ruckus-over-neet-paper-leak-pradhans-resignation-694114.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/our-moral-political-and-constitutional-duty-to-stand-with-them-sonia-gandhi-on-student-protest-issue-694116.html New Delhi July 24 IANS Congress Parliamentary Party CPP Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Friday criticised the Central governments handling of student protests over examination paper leaks alleging that the education system was facing a deep crisisThe veteran leader in an article in The Hindu shared by the Congress party on its X handle said The Modi government routinely uses violence in preference to dialogue The pattern is clear from farmers to activistsThe party said The Modi government has not just degraded Indias education landscape but has also made a habit of acting with utter impunity supreme selfdelusion and abject insensitivity Indias students have called the Modi regimes bluffIn her column titled An Education Systems Collapse Young Indias Trauma Sonia Gandhi wrote that student protests against examination paper leaks and problems in the education system had gained momentum across the country and that their demands were focused on accountability and reformsShe alleged that the governments response had been excessive writing The Narendra Modi government has responded to their courage with cowardice and wanton cruelty treating them not as inheritors of the future but as enemies of the nationReferring to the July 20 protests in Delhi Gandhi claimed that security forces used force against demonstrators The Delhi Police and the Central Armed Police Forces CAPFs sought to suppress them with uncalledfor violence using brutal lathicharges and tear gas she wroteShe further stated These are our sons and daughters our young men and women while calling for dialogue with protesting studentsTargeting the governments broader approach towards dissent Gandhi wrote The Modi government routinely uses violence in preference to dialogue The pattern is clear from farmers to activistsThe Congress leader also raised concerns over public education examination reforms and accountability mechanisms She alleged that declining investment in public education increased dependence on private institutions and problems within the examination system had placed additional pressure on students and familiesOn examination irregularities Gandhi wrote that the testing system had been affected by centralisation privatisation and politicisation alleging that repeated paper leaks had damaged students trust in competitive examinationsShe also criticised the functioning of the National Testing Agency NTA questioning its accountability and alleging that reforms recommended by parliamentary committees had not been adequately addressedGandhi further argued that unemployment intense competition and limited opportunities had increased the stress faced by young people She wrote that students were attempting to succeed in an increasingly demanding system without adequate support and resourcesConcluding her article Gandhi said The Modi government has not just degraded Indias education landscape but has also made a habit of acting with utter impunity supreme selfdelusion and abject insensitivityShe added Indias students have called the Modi regimes bluff It is our moral political and constitutional duty to stand with them and safeguard their futureThis article came amid continuing political debate over examination paper leaks student protests and the governments announcement of stricter legal measures against irregularities in competitive examinationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/our-moral-political-and-constitutional-duty-to-stand-with-them-sonia-gandhi-on-student-protest-issue-694116.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:16:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rahul-gandhi-says-no-discussion-till-dharmendra-pradhan-is-sacked-pm-apologises-to-students-694118.html New Delhi July 24 IANS Amid a tussle between the Centre and the Opposition over the antipaper leak students agitation Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition LoP Rahul Gandhi on Friday claimed that his microphone was switched off in the House while asserting that no kind of discussion will be held till Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns and Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologises to studentsnbspUnion Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju had previously accused the Opposition of running away from a discussion on exam paper leak and other educational issues during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the ParliamentMoreover Rijiju had urged all parties specifically the Opposition to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in order to decide on a date time and rule for conducting a discussion on NEET paper leak in the Parliament without wasting timeNotably the Opposition itself had sought a discussion on the students issue in the House but had urged the Union government to accept the adjournment motion to facilitate the debateSpeaking to reporters outside the Parliament House Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi said Just now Rijiju made a statement saying that he wants us to ask our MPs to allow a discussion Under normal protocol if someone takes your name you are given an opportunity to respond He said we should have a discussion but when I tried to respond my microphone was switched off and I was not given an opportunityI want to clearly state that the Oppositions stand is based on three demands from the students First the corrupt Education Minister has to go Second action and accountability must be fixed against those who attacked and beat the students Third the Prime Minister should apologise to the students These are the three conditions he saidLoP Gandhi further emphasised We are not going to have any conversation or discussion before Mr Pradhan is sacked Thats itCongress MP Tariq Anwar backed Gandhis claim of not being allowed to speak in the HouseThe way the Chairman behaved today is both surprising and unfortunate The Leader of the Opposition was not allowed to speak which is undemocratic I dont know why the government doesnt want the Opposition to speak he told IANSMeanwhile Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav maintained that there is no deadlock of the Opposition with the governmentSpeaking to IANS she said There is no question of a deadlock We want the Education Minister to resign and a discussion to take place so that things can move forward But the government does not want it It does not want to listen due to its arroganceShe added that Dharmendra Pradhan should resign on moral groundsCongress MP Kumari Selja said Ethics is also something which the government is not able to understandOur demands are based on the way the students were treated which was extremely brutal The same thing happened to our people and us as well We are saying that the FIRs should also be withdrawn and the Education Minister should resign she told IANSIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rahul-gandhi-says-no-discussion-till-dharmendra-pradhan-is-sacked-pm-apologises-to-students-694118.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-to-closely-monitor-centres-road-map-for-neet-reforms-seeks-detailed-affidavit-694119.html New Delhi July 24 IANS The Supreme Court on Friday said it would very closely monitor the Centres road map for institutional reforms in the National Testing Agency NTA and measures to prevent future paper leaks while directing the Union government to file a comprehensive affidavit detailing its proposals including the feasibility of shifting NEET to a computerbased testing CBT mode cybersecurity safeguards and examination security protocolsnbspA Bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe hearing a batch of petitions seeking structural reforms in the conduct of the NEETUG examination following the alleged 2026 paper leak controversy posted the matter for further hearing on July 27 after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta sought a few days time to present a holistic view of the reforms being undertakenAppearing for the Centre SG Mehta submitted that there had been some development and requested that the matter be taken up after a few days so that the government could place a comprehensive picture before the top courtHowever the Justice Narasimhaled Bench said the proposed affidavit must specifically address the institutional reforms required to strengthen the examination systemReferring to the recommendations of the highpowered committee headed by former ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan the Supreme Court said the government should indicate the proposed structure of the NTAs governing board how transparency and stakeholder participation would be ensured and the manner in which domain experts including institutions such as the IITs would be involved in improving the examination frameworkIn response SG Mehta said the Centre would place on record the entire process right from the printing press till the time the student gets the paperFor children there cannot be any adversarial response The Radhakrishnan Committee has been fully accepted the Centres second highest law officer said adding that the government was going ten extra miles to address students concerns and that the entire exercise was being supervised at the highest executive levelDuring the hearing the Supreme Court observed that reliance on temporary arrangements could not become a permanent solutionYou deployed the Air Force but that is ad hoc the Justice Narasimhaled Bench said adding that ad hocism has troubled us for yearsThe apex court also asked the Centre to explain whether NEET could eventually transition to a fully CBT model and the cybersecurity architecture that would be required to secure such a systemGive information regarding computerbased testing Can it be shifted How can the data be kept safe If you digitise it how will you secure it Who will handle cybersecurity the Justice Narasimhaled Bench said directing the Centre to specifically address these aspects in its affidavitAssuring the top court SG Mehta said the Centre was open to every constructive suggestion Any suggestion from the court we will take it without reservation he submittedWe will very closely monitor this We will follow it up throughout the year We will see that complete and total institutionalisation takes place We cant let this continue the Supreme Court observed while listing the matter for July 27 when the Centre is expected to file its detailed affidavitThe batch of petitions seeks structural reforms in the conduct of NEETUG including a transition to CBT greater statutory accountability of the NTA implementation of stronger technological safeguards and measures to prevent recurring paper leaksEarlier while hearing the matter the Supreme Court had observed that repeated controversies surrounding the examination highlighted the need to fix individual accountability within the NTA saying the problem would continue unless specific responsibility was assigned to those handling various aspects of the examination processIt had also remarked that examination bodies should not function in an ad hoc manner and had asked the Centre to place a comprehensive road map for strengthening the NTAs organisational and human resource capacityThe hearing comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Centre has prepared a comprehensive draft Bill to introduce stricter provisions and stringent punishments for paper leak casesThe proposed legislation expected to be discussed by the Union Cabinet and introduced in Parliament next week envisages harsher penalties fasttrack special courts for timebound trials and stronger institutional accountabilityThe government has also initiated the process of establishing fasttrack courts to deal with paper leak cases under the Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024 with NEETrelated cases among those proposed to be heard on priority to strengthen deterrence against examination malpracticesIANSnbsp https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-to-closely-monitor-centres-road-map-for-neet-reforms-seeks-detailed-affidavit-694119.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 15:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-cm-orders-strict-action-over-fake-campaign-targeting-cpi-694142.html Thiruvananthapuram July 24 Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan has directed the state Home Department to take urgent and stringent action over the fake campaign targeting CPIM Central Committee member and former Health Minister PK Sreemathy after she submitted a formal complaint alleging a coordinated attempt to defame her through false social media and online reports Sreemathy gave a written complaint to the Chief Minister about the circulation of fabricated reports claiming that she had fraudulently drawn an MLAs family pensionThe Chief Minister immediately forwarded the complaint to state Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala directing that appropriate legal action be initiated without delayThe governments intervention came as crucial facts emerged exposing the allegation as a case of mistaken identityThe pension in question was not received by the CPIM leader but by another PK Sreemathy the late wife of freedom fighter and Congress leader PR Krishnan a former MLA from the erstwhile TravancoreCochin Assembly and later the Kunnamkulam constituencyA retired teacher of AKM Higher Secondary School Poochatti Thrissur she had received the Assembly family pension following her husbands death in 1993She died in February 2020 after which the pension was discontinuedHer son Ajith Printex Ajith clarified that no one had received the pension during the past six yearsHe said his fathers name had been dragged into an unnecessary controversy and suggested that the CPIM leader had either been targeted because of the similarity in names or as part of a deliberate attempt to mislead the publicThe controversy stemmed from an RTI reply on pensions paid to former MLAsThe document separately listed the family pension of PK Sreemathy wife of PR Krishnan and the pension details of former MLA and exMinister PK Sreemathy of KannurThe two entries were allegedly distorted and projected as referring to the same individual triggering the fake campaignSreemathy on Thursday broke down before the media explaining that she is being targeted for no fault of hersOn Friday Sreemathy said she would not forgive those responsible for spreading the false allegations and would initiate defamation proceedings against themMany of those who carried the fake news have called me Some even said they were prepared to fall at my feet and apologise she saidShe also revealed that leaders from both Congress and the BJP had contacted her to express solidarityWith the Chief Minister ordering immediate action and legal proceedings now on the cards the controversy has shifted from a misinformation campaign to a case that could test the governments resolve against the spread of fake news IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-cm-orders-strict-action-over-fake-campaign-targeting-cpi-694142.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 16:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/crash-severity-not-frequency-emerging-as-rajasthans-biggest-road-safety-challenge-694145.html Jaipur July 24 At first glance the numbers appear encouraging Road accidents in Jaipur fell in 2025 compared with the previous year But behind the decline lies a disturbing reality that more people are dying on the citys roads than before Numbers prove that crash severity not frequency is emerging as Rajasthans biggest road safety challenge The statistics tell a story that goes beyond accident counts While collisions have reduced those that do occur are increasingly proving fatal raising serious questions about speeding highway safety emergency response and roaduser behaviourIn 2025 Jaipur reported 3664 road accidents about 10 crashes every day Yet these crashes claimed 1273 lives averaging nearly three to four deaths dailyCompared with 2024 accidents declined by 56 per cent but fatalities increased by 31 per cent pushing the fatality rate to 347 deaths for every 100 accidents the highest recorded in the past five yearsThe figures compiled from the Jaipur East West North South and Rural police districts indicate that while roads are witnessing fewer collisions the impact of each crash is becoming far more severe The trend is reflected in a series of recent tragediesEarlier this week four members of a family waiting near a bus stop on the JaipurâAjmer Highway were killed after a speeding trailer crashed through a roadside barrier and ran them overJust a day later a young woman riding a motorcycle died after colliding with a heavy vehicleDays before that two people lost their lives when their car rammed into a container truck on the same highwayThese incidents are not isolated accidents Together they illustrate a broader pattern of highspeed crashes involving heavy vehicles particularly on highways where the consequences of even a single mistake are often fatalRoad accident statistics over the last five years reveal an interesting shift Jaipur recorded 3205 accidents and 1106 deaths in 2021The numbers climbed sharply in 2022 when accidents reached 3935 and fatalities peaked at 1327Since then accidents have steadily declined to 3893 in 2023 3881 in 2024 and 3664 in 2025 Deaths however have not followed the same trajectoryAlthough fatalities fell after the 2022 peak they have remained above 1200 annually for the third consecutive yearThe increase to 1273 deaths in 2025 despite fewer accidents suggests that crash severity not crash frequency is emerging as Rajasthans biggest road safety challengeAmong Jaipurs police districts Jaipur Rural emerged as the most vulnerable recording 805 accidents and 426 deaths â accounting for roughly one in every three road fatalities in the Jaipur regionIt was also the only district where accidents increased compared with the previous yearJaipur East recorded the highest number of accidents at 1011 followed by Jaipur West with 964 In contrast Jaipur South showed the most significant improvement with accidents declining from 783 to 666 and fatalities falling from 216 to 184Jaipur North registered the fewest accidents 218 but deaths still rose from 58 to 71 highlighting that even areas with fewer crashes are witnessing more severe outcomesAccording to Traffic SP Yogesh Goyal Jaipur is strengthening traffic management by deploying more personnel installing additional traffic signals and expanding ITenabled enforcement However he believes the larger challenge lies outside the cityThe bigger challenge lies in rural areas where traffic management infrastructure is limited and compliance with traffic rules remains poor Along with stricter enforcement we need behavioural change among drivers and pedestrians he saidHis observation highlights a growing concern among road safety experts Enforcement alone cannot prevent fatal crashes if excessive speed risky overtaking distracted driving and poor compliance continueRecognising the growing concern Rajasthan Police launched a statewide special traffic enforcement campaign from July 2 to July 16 2026 under the directions of DGP Rajiv Kumar Sharma and the supervision of DGP Traffic Anil PaliwalAccording to Additional Director General of Police Traffic Dr BL Meena the campaign focussed on reducing accidents promoting helmet use and improving compliance on national and state highways Public awareness messages such as No travel without a helmet are being promoted with emphasis on the use of ISIcertified helmetsThe enforcement has been extensive During the first five days of the campaign July 2â6 police issued 97954 challans under the Motor Vehicles Act On July 6 alone action was taken against 19901 motorists including 8447 helmet violators 5019 overspeeding drivers 3369 vehicles parked illegally and 3066 motorists violating lane disciplinePolice say the campaign was intended not merely to impose penalties but to encourage safer road behaviour The 2025 figures present a sobering lesson A decline in accidents does not automatically translate into safer roadsWhen more people die despite fewer crashes the focus must shift from simply reducing accident numbers to reducing crash severityFor Rajasthan the challenge now extends beyond stricter policing Safer highways better engineering improved trauma response stronger enforcement against speeding and lasting behavioural change among road users will be crucial if the state is to reverse the rising toll of fatal road accidentsUntil then every reduction in accident numbers will continue to be overshadowed by the growing number of lives lost on the road IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/crash-severity-not-frequency-emerging-as-rajasthans-biggest-road-safety-challenge-694145.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 16:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/union-ministers-meet-cjp-representatives-talks-remain-inconclusive-694146.html New Delhi July 24 Union Ministers JP Nadda and Dr Jitendra Singh held discussions with the Cockroach Janata Party CJP spokespersons in the national capital on Friday in a fresh bid to address their grievances over the NEET paper leaks and demands regarding the resignation of the Education Minister The meeting lasting nearly two hours however remained inconclusive with CJP staying firm on one of its demandsJP Nadda and Dr Jitendra Singh represented the government while the CJP was represented by two of its spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka The talks took place at the Constitution Club of IndiaSpeaking to the media after the meeting Union Minister Nadda said The meeting went on for almost two hours They had three main demands and five reform suggestions We have told them that we will meet them again tomorrowâTalks happened in a cordial atmosphere We heard their grievances in detailâ he addedThe CJP on the other hand remained adamant and refused to budge on its demand for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra PradhanThe government has sought time till tomorrow afternoon on our demand for Dharmendra Pradhans resignation They have agreed on the two demands one of compensation for families of NEET aspirants who died by suicide and withdrawal of legal cases on students CJPs Ashutosh Ranka told the mediaThis was round two of the CentreCJP talks and came a day after Dr Jitendra Singhâs appeal for discussions to end the stalemateThe Minister of State in the PMO while making an appeal to the CJP on Thursday said that the governmentâs doors are open for talks 247 and the protesting group could decide the time and hours of discussion as per their convenienceThe CentreCJP meeting assumes significance as it comes on the back of social activist Sonam Wangchuk ending his 26day hunger strike late on Thursday night following the governments assurances on his key demands IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/union-ministers-meet-cjp-representatives-talks-remain-inconclusive-694146.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ready-to-talk-to-tn-chief-minister-on-cauvery-dispute-says-ktaka-cm-shivakumar-694148.html Bengaluru July 24  Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday said he was willing to engage with his Tamil Nadu counterpart on issues concerning the Cauvery River watersharing dispute while also welcoming the Centres decision to discuss concerns related to the education system in the wake of nationwide NEET protests Speaking to reporters after attending the CEOs breakfast meeting ahead of the Bengaluru Tech Summit Shivakumar said the state government is open to discussions with all stakeholders including the Tamil Nadu government on matters related to the Cauvery River disputeShivakumar further said I do not wish to make the contents of the Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers letter public at this moment This week we have been occupied with Cabinet expansion and other matters On certain issues we are ready to speak with everyone share with everyone and work with everyoneHis remarks came in response to questions about a letter reportedly sent by the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister regarding the Cauvery issueHowever insiders confirmed that amid the ongoing Cauvery watersharing dispute preparations are underway for talks between Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay The two Chief Ministers are expected to discuss several key issues including the proposed Mekedatu balancing reservoir project If the meeting takes place it would mark one of the rare instances in several decades that the Chief Ministers of the two states have come together to hold direct talks on the Cauvery issue and other matters of mutual interestAccording to sources the Tamil Nadu government has requested a meeting and in response CM Shivakumar has reportedly invited Chief Minister Vijay for talks in Bengaluru on August 3 However it remains unclear whether the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has accepted the invitationUntil now successive governments in Tamil Nadu led by the DMK and AIADMK have consistently declined to hold direct negotiations with Karnataka on the Cauvery watersharing issue Tamil Nadus official position has been that the Cauvery dispute has already been settled by the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal and the Supreme CourtMeanwhile CM Shivakumar also welcomed the Centres move to deliberate on concerns surrounding the education system following widespread protests by students over the NEET examinationIt is encouraging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Central government have finally come forward to discuss the education system after a month The entire country has now woken up to the issue We are all working for the future of the students and youth of this nation Shivakumar saidThe comments come amid continuing debates over the conduct of NEET and growing demands from students and opposition parties for reforms in the examination and admissions process across the countryShivakumar reiterated that the Karnataka government remains committed to protecting the interests of the states people while maintaining dialogue and cooperation with neighbouring states on interstate issues IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ready-to-talk-to-tn-chief-minister-on-cauvery-dispute-says-ktaka-cm-shivakumar-694148.html Fri, 24 Jul 2026 17:06:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/nothing-is-more-important-than-the-welfare-and-future-of-our-youth-pm-modi-693926.html New Delhi July 23 IANS Amid the ongoing protests over exam paper leaks Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday stated that welfare and future of youths are of utmost priority for the governmentnbspMoreover he stated that the Centre has decided to set up fasttrack courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks and also issued a warning to those trying to harm the future of youthIn a post on X PM Modi said Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth We have decided to set up fasttrack courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regardHe emphasised that the step is a part of a series of measures by the Central government for safeguarding the interests of studentsPM Modi also issued a warning saying Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be sparedThis comes a day after Union Health Minister JP Nadda said that the Centre was open to discussions with all stakeholders on the examination paper leak issue He also said that the government had held talks with representatives of the protesting CJP and had also urged activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike and join the mainstream dialogue processAddressing a press conference Nadda said the meeting with CJP representatives was held in a cordial atmosphere during which the government heard their concerns and asked them to submit their demands in writingThe discussion took place in a very cordial atmosphere We listened to their views very calmly I told them it would be better if they submitted their points in writing and they have done so We are ready for discussions whenever they ask he said while clarifying that no fresh meeting took place on WednesdayReiterating that the government wanted a detailed debate on examination paper leaks Nadda said Parliament was the most appropriate forum to evolve a longterm policy on the issueIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/nothing-is-more-important-than-the-welfare-and-future-of-our-youth-pm-modi-693926.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 11:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-adjourned-2-minute-after-reconvening-amid-oppns-neet-uproar-693930.html New Delhi July 23 IANS The Lok Sabha was adjourned amid heavy sloganeering by the Opposition just two minutes after it reconvened on Thursday This came as the NEETUG paper leak issue continues to dominate ParliamentThe Lok Sabha Speaker repeatedly urged the members to be seated and allow the Question Hour to proceed However the MPs continued with heavy sloganeering demanding an immediate discussion on paper leaks and other exam irregularitiesI appeal to all MPs of the government and the Opposition to come after the Question Hour and discuss the issue within the rules of the House Speaker Birla saidHowever when the ruckus did not stop the House was adjourned till noonThis came even as the government agreed to discuss the paper leak issuenbspEarlier on Wednesday Union Health Minister JP Nadda announced that the Centre was open to discussions with all stakeholders on the examination paper leak issuenbspHe also said that the government had held talks with representatives of the protesting Cockroach Janata Party CJP and had also urged activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his hunger strike and join the mainstream dialogue processMeanwhile Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday urged all parties specifically the Opposition to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in order to decide on a date time and rule for conducting a discussion on NEET paper leak in the Parliament without wasting timeHowever he said it has to be decided under which rule the discussion will take place in the HouseMeanwhile Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday stated that the government has decided to set up fasttrack courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks and also issued a warning to those trying to harm the future of youthIn a post on X PM Modi said Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth We have decided to set up fasttrack courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regardHe underlined that the step is a part of a series of measures by the Central government for safeguarding the interests of studentsPM Modi also issued a warning saying Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared The welfare and future of the countrys youth is our topmost priorityIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lok-sabha-adjourned-2-minute-after-reconvening-amid-oppns-neet-uproar-693930.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/encouraged-total-destruction-of-education-system-rahul-gandhi-on-pm-modis-youth-welfare-remarks-693931.html New Delhi July 23 IANS In a sharply worded attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modis statement regarding prioritising the welfare of the countrys youth Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused the Centre of allowing and encouraging the destruction of the education systemnbspEarlier in a post on X PM Modi said Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth We have decided to set up fasttrack courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regardResponding to it LoP Gandhi said You are the one who has harmed the future of our youth the most You allowed and encouraged the total capture and destruction of our education system and protected every person responsible for itReiterating the demands of the agitation over exam paper leaks the Congress MP mentioned The students demands are clear sack Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan apologise to the students and take action against those who assaulted themGandhi was referring to the alleged police brutality against protesters during the Cockroach Janta Party CJPled march to Parliament on July 20Meanwhile PM Modi in his post emphasised that setting up of the fasttrack courts is a part of a series of measures by the Central government for safeguarding the interests of studentsThe Prime Minister also issued a warning saying Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be sparedAddressing a press conference a day before Rahul Gandhi claimed that Indias education system has been rigged under the current dispensationJustifying the students stir in the capital the Congress MP said that they were fighting for a fair and legitimate reason but the government was using force to browbeat and crush themIntensifying the attack on the Education Minister he said that Dharmendra Pradhan was corrupt and incompetent and demanded that he must step down from his positionLoP Gandhi along with other senior Congress leaders and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav had staged a sitin near PM Modis residence on Tuesday over the lathi charge on antiNEET leak protesters before being briefly detained by the policeIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/encouraged-total-destruction-of-education-system-rahul-gandhi-on-pm-modis-youth-welfare-remarks-693931.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/idfc-first-bank-fraud-cbi-conducts-searches-in-chandigarh-ludhiana-693932.html Chandigarh July 23 IANS The Central Bureau of Investigation CBI on Thursday said it has conducted searches at multiple locations in Chandigarh and Ludhiana in connection with the misappropriation of funds from IDFC First Bank accounts of Chandigarh Smart City Ltd CSCL and Municipal Corporation ChandigarhnbspThe searches were conducted at five locations including residential premises business establishments of suspected beneficiaries of the defrauded funds belonging to the Municipal Corporation and CSCL former accountant Anubhav Mishra and private entities connected with the investigationDuring the searches various incriminating documents and articles were recovered and seized These include digital evidence like storage drives digital signatures propertyrelated documents financial records multiple electronic devices and other documents relevant to the investigationThe seized documents and electronic records are being examined and analysed as part of the ongoing investigationThe CBI had taken over the investigation from the State Vigilance and AntiCorruption Bureau in Haryana at the request of the state governmentThe fraud relating to HSPCB forms part of a larger banking fraud at the IDFC First Bank branch in Sector 32 in Chandigarh wherein government funds amounting to approximately Rs 504 crore belonging to eight departments of the Haryana government were allegedly siphoned off through forged and nonexistent fixed deposits and fraudulent debit transactions and subsequently routed through shell entitiesSo far the CBI has filed chargesheets against 17 accused belonging to Haryana including six bank officials of IDFC First Bank and AU Small Finance Bank three public servants of the state government of Haryana two companies and six private individualsThe CBI has also taken over two related cases in Chandigarh one pertaining to CSCL and Municipal Corporation and another relating to Chandigarh Renewable Energy and Science ampamp Technology Promotion Society CRESTChargesheets have already been filed in both cases In the CSCL case the CBI has chargesheeted five bankers one CSCL official and one private individual In the CREST case chargesheets have been filed against five bankers two CREST officials four private individuals and two companiesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/idfc-first-bank-fraud-cbi-conducts-searches-in-chandigarh-ludhiana-693932.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-in-favour-of-discussion-since-beginning-says-kiren-rijiju-amid-neet-stand-off-693966.html New Delhi July 23 IANS Amid the continued impasse in Parliament and the oppositions protests Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said on Thursday that the government has consistently favoured a debate on the NEET paper leak issue since the beginning and blamed the Opposition for exploiting the issue to derail the House proceedingsnbspThe House on the fourth consecutive day witnessed uproar with the Opposition insistent on immediate discussion on the issueRijiju said all the allies of the National Democratic Alliance NDA are also on board regarding a detailed discussion on the NEET issue He also informed the House about Prime Minister Narendra Modis message for stern action against those involved in paper leaksThe proceedings in both Houses have been stalled because of governmentopposition deadlock as the former insists on readiness for debate and the latter remains bent on the Education Ministers resignation before initiating debateAs the Rajya Sabha proceedings began on Thursday Kiren Rijiju told the House that the government has engaged with opposition leaders particularly Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and others to facilitate the commencement of a discussion in the HouseHe said that the government had requested the opposition to decide on the duration and format of the NEET discussion through mutual consent insisting that it was not right to attach any preconditions to it He claimed that the opposition talks about discussion but keeps obstructing it by imposing conditionsHe said that the oppositions conduct gives the impression that it was unwilling to engage in discussion about sensitive issues about students and was only resorting to rhetoricRijiju asserted that the NEET examination issue should not be politicised and serious debate should be held in both Lok Sabha and Rajya SabhaInforming the House about the constitution of fasttrack courts for speedy justice in NEET paper leaks Rijiju said that this will ensure that those guilty will receive swift and severe punishmentHe also appealed to the opposition to withdraw their conditions and allow the discussion on the NEET issue to proceed in the House without obstructionOpposition benches refusing to buy the governments stance stated that they remain firm on their demands and that the Union Education Minister must resign from his post taking responsibility for widespread irregularities in the examinationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-in-favour-of-discussion-since-beginning-says-kiren-rijiju-amid-neet-stand-off-693966.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:47:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/houses-of-two-let-terrorists-demolished-in-jampks-anantnag-693969.html Srinagar July 23 A day after the terrorists killed a policeman in Jammu and Kashmirs Anantnag district houses of two LashkareTaiba LeT terrorists were demolished in Anantnag district on Thursday Official sources said the action came a day after terrorists killed a head constable in Anantnag townSources said that the authorities on Wednesday night demolished the houses of two LsT terrorists Aadil Hussain Thokar of Guree Bijbehara and Haroon Ganai of Hassanpora in South Kashmirs Anantnag district following the killing of the cop in the terror attack at Lal Chowk Anantnag Aadil Thokars house had earlier been demolished after the Pahalgam Baisaran terror attack The newly constructed house at the same location was also razed during the overnight operation Haroon Ganais house in Hassanpora was similarly demolished as part of the action the sources added The operation is part of an ongoing crackdown on terrorists and their support infrastructureHead constable Ashiq Hussain Qureshi of the 3rd battalion of Armed Police was on patrolling duty when the attack occurredThe head constable belonged to the Beerwah area of Budgam districtLt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the terror attackThe LG vowed in his post on X that the murder of the policeman would not go unpunished and those responsible would be brought to justiceA wreathlaying ceremony was held at the district police lines in Anantnag to pay tribute to the martyred policemanHundreds attended his funeral in his native town and scores of people continued to come to offer condolences to the bereaved familyThe Resistance Front TRF claimed responsibility for the attack The organisation is an offshoot of LashkareTaiba a Pakistanbased UNdesignated terrorist groupFormed using cadres of militant groups LashkareTaiba and Hizbul Mujahideen in the aftermath of the 2019 abrogation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir TRF uses nonreligious nomenclature and symbolism to project a secular image but has carried out targeted killings of locals from religious minority communitiesThe group maintains a significant social media presence some of which Indian media traces to Pakistan Police rounded up over 3000 overground workers OGWs of terrorist outfits in various districts of the Valley following the killings of the head constableA red alert has been issued after the terror attack and a massive manhunt to trace the assailants is going on IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/houses-of-two-let-terrorists-demolished-in-jampks-anantnag-693969.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sit-detains-former-tdb-chief-prasanth-in-sabarimala-gold-case-693970.html Thiruvananthapuram July 23 With the Kerala High Court directing the Special Investigation Team SIT to expedite the Sabarimala gold misappropriation probe former Travancore Devaswom Board TDB president PS Prasanth was taken into custody from his residence in the state capital on Thursday Two former TDB presidents both CPIM leaders after being arrested and in jail are now out on bailPrasanths arrest comes barely days after the SIT informed the High Court that it would file the final report in one of the two cases within 30 days stating that scientific examination of the temple artefacts had helped establish how the alleged offence was committedThe court has posted the matter for September 3 while the SIT is also considering registering a third casePrasanth a former Congress leader who joined the CPIM after his defeat in the 2021 Assembly elections was later appointed president of the Travancore Devaswom Board the statutory body administering temples in south Kerala including the famed Sabarimala shrineThe SIT has registered two separate cases relating to the alleged disappearance and misappropriation of gold from temple artefactsSeveral accused were arrested but later secured statutory bail after the agency failed to file charge sheets within the prescribed periodOne of the accused has since diedInvestigators are also expected to take into custody two more members of the administrative team that functioned under PrasanthThe controversy surfaced during Prasanths tenure after questions were raised over the restoration of the temples Dwarapalaka guardian sculptures following which he was questioned by the SIT on multiple occasionsHours before his arrest Prasanth issued a lengthy Facebook post claiming he was being made an accused not for wrongdoing but for exposing the alleged 2019 gold theftWhat was our mistake in 2025 he asked alleging that his Board had acted honestly and transparently and had become instrumental in bringing the 2019 Sabarimala gold theft case to lightHe described the move against him as politically motivated and said he had anticipated his arrestPrasanth maintained that the decision to send the Dwarapalaka sculptures to Chennai for restoration was taken solely to remove ritual impurity caused by damaged sculptures which had allegedly injured temple staff during cleaningHe insisted the Devaswom suffered not even a single rupee in loss arguing that the weight and gold content of the restored sculptures had actually increased after reinstallationRejecting allegations of conspiracy he contended that the failure to inform the Special Commissioner before shifting the sculptures was an administrative lapse by officials not a Board decisionHe also claimed it was his Board that submitted the 2019 records to the High Court and later handed over all documents sought by the SIT leading to the alleged gold scam coming to light IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sit-detains-former-tdb-chief-prasanth-in-sabarimala-gold-case-693970.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:51:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/amrit-kaal-of-defaults-shiv-sena-693974.html Mumbai July 23 The Shiv Sena UBT on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the Centre accusing it of patronising big corporate loan defaulters while enforcing harsh recovery mechanisms on poor and middleclass citizens In an editorial in its mouthpiece Saamana the party said as per the official data provided by the Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary in a written reply in the Lok Sabha public sector banks have written off bad loans totaling Rs 775 lakh crore across 1249 accounts each owing Rs 100 crore or more between FY 201415 and FY 202526 Out of the massive defaults banks have managed to recover a mere Rs 310 lakh crore so farWhile the government argued in Parliament that writing off loans is standard technical accounting for nonrecoverable debts and does not equate to a total loan waiver the editorial termed this defence shocking and hypocritical All of this is deeply shocking Ever since coming to power the Modi government has continuously beaten its chest about bringing financial discipline to the banking system So under what definition of financial discipline does it fall to simply transfer unrecovered loans into bad debt accounts instead of enforcing recovery while big industrialists pull off such massive heists on banks asked the Thackeray campTaking massive loans repaying a tiny fraction and defaulting on the rest seems to have received official state sanction the editorial noted labelling the current era an Amrit Kaal of Default It further commented An Amrit Kaal of Loan Defaulting has commenced in the country where poor cockroaches must tighten their belts to pay off their loan instalments while wealthy billionaires get to bankrupt the banks If the government itself is complicit who is going to stop these robbers from looting public moneyA major point of contention highlighted in the editorial is the governmentâs refusal to publicly disclose the names of these top corporate defaulters The government cited Section 45E of the Reserve Bank of India RBI Act which mandates confidentiality regarding credit information as the reason for withholding the identitiesThe editorial vehemently questioned this rationale Why are the names of small default borrowers publicly advertised in newspapers while billionaire defaulters are shielded behind confidentiality clauses Why are properties vehicles and homes of middleclass citizens small business owners and farmers seized or sealed over tiny defaults while big corporate tycoons face no such actionThe Thackeray camp questioned whether these defaulting tycoons are major donors to the ruling party alleging an unspoken policy of Give donations get loan writeoffsSharply contrasting the plight of the common citizen with wealthy industrialists the editorial claimed that while ordinary taxpayers squeeze their tight budgets to pay off microloans wealthy billionaires are permitted to loot state banks with impunityThe Uddhav Thackerayled Shiv Sena remarked that the open plunder of public sector banks is taking place through collusion between fraudsters in industry and big fraudsters in government It warned that if the state itself shields such elements public money remains dangerously unsecured IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/amrit-kaal-of-defaults-shiv-sena-693974.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/fresh-attack-on-kerala-cpi-693977.html Kannur July 23 A fresh political flashpoint has erupted in Keralas Kannur with the alleged arson attack on a shrimp farm owned by former CPIM member T Purushothaman a key supporter of rebel MLA V Kunjikrishnan intensifying the postelection turmoil within the party The incident comes at a time when the CPIMs national and state leadership is reviewing the Leftâs crushing defeat in the Assembly elections where its strength in the 140member Kerala Assembly plummeted from 99 seats to just 35The developments in Kannur long projected as the CPIMs strongest organisational district in the country have emerged as a major concern after two of its traditional bastions Payyannur and Taliparamba fell to rebel candidates backed by the Congressled UDF exposing deep fissures within the partyThe attack occurred at Kandankali in Payyannur where a shed used for storing shrimp farming equipment was allegedly set ablaze shortly after midnightPurushothaman discovered the damage when he reached the farm on Thursday morning to feed the shrimp The shed which housed shrimp feed nets transport boxes pipes and trays was completely destroyedPurushothaman also alleged that an unidentified liquid substance had been mixed into the shrimp pond in an attempt to kill the shrimp juveniles and suspected that an explosive substance may have been used to carry out the attackThis is the second such attack on him During the Assembly election campaign his house was attacked and his car set on fireFive CPIM workers were later arrested in connection with that case Purushothaman alleged that the latest attack was politically motivated and blamed former MLA TI Madhusoodanan claiming he had publicly targeted him in recent daysFor the past several days CPIM workers have been planning attacks against those who supported V Kunjikrishnan There was a sustained campaign against me on social media after the former MLA spoke against me This attack followed that he allegedHe said a formal police complaint would be lodgedThe latest incident is likely to further embarrass the CPIM leadership which is already grappling with the political fallout from its worst electoral setback in decades and the widening cracks in its once impregnable Kannur stronghold IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/fresh-attack-on-kerala-cpi-693977.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/chhattisgarh-two-killed-after-driver-loses-control-rams-car-into-tree-in-durg-693978.html Durg July 23 Two men lost their lives in a horrific accident in Chhattisgarhs Durg district on Thursday after the driver lost control of the car and hit a road divider before ramming into a tree The victims have been identified as Deepak and his friend Kaushik The young men undertook a car ride in the wee hours of Thursday While driving from Sector 8 towards Globe Chowk the car was allegedly travelling at a very high speed when the driver lost control of the vehicleAccording to reports the speeding car first rammed into the road divider and then crashed into a treeOfficials said that the impact of the accident was so severe that both Deepak who was driving the car and Kaushik seated beside him died on the spotLocal residents alerted the police upon receiving information about the accident A police team reached the spot and shifted the bodies to Supela Mortuary for postmortem procedurePreliminary information suggests that the victims were drunk at the time of the accidentIn a similar incident reported earlier this month four members of a family including two sisters and two young children died in a road accident on the DurgâRaipur National Highwayâ53 in ChhattisgarhPolice said five members of the family were travelling on a scooter from Somni in Bhilaiâ3 to their maternal uncleâs house in Vasant Vihar Raipur when the vehicle rammed into the rear of a stationary tractor loaded with oxygen cylindersThe deceased were identified as Amrita Nirmalkar 28 her sister Lakshmi Nirmalkar 26 and Amritaâs daughters Yachna 7 and Dali 4 Amritaâs eightâyearâold son Bhavesh sustained serious injuries and is undergoing treatment at AIIMS RaipurThe accident occurred under the jurisdiction of the Kumhari police station The impact was so severe that the two women and two girls died on the spotAmritaâs husband Lokesh Nirmalkar told police the family had celebrated Yachnaâs birthday just two days earlier on July 14He described the loss as devastating noting that his wife daughter son and sisterâinâlaw were all on the scooter at the time of the crash IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/chhattisgarh-two-killed-after-driver-loses-control-rams-car-into-tree-in-durg-693978.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/monsoon-intensifies-in-rajasthan-imd-issues-heavy-rain-alert-for-next-four-days-693979.html Jaipur July 23 The southwest monsoon has intensified once again across Rajasthan with the monsoon trough currently passing through Bikaner As a result the India Meteorological Department IMD has forecast active conditions across the state over the next four days and issued alerts for heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts On Thursday the IMD issued a heavy rainfall warning for 11 districts while several other districts are likely to receive moderate to heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning During the past 24 hours heavy rainfall was recorded in parts of Beawar and Bhilwara districtsThe highest rainfall was measured at Jagpura Banswara which was 1670 mm followed by 110 mm in Beawar town 120 mm each in Asind and Bagore Bhilwara 81 mm in Aklera Jhalawar and 73 mm in Jhalrapatan The downpour disrupted normal life in several areas and caused waterlogging in lowlying localitiesRainfall was also reported from parts of Dholpur Jaipur Sikar Jhunjhunu and Baran districtsAccording to the IMD a cyclonic circulation over northeastern Rajasthan and adjoining areas along with the monsoon trough remaining in its normal position has strengthened rainfall activity across the state Under its influence the monsoon is expected to remain active in most districts for the next four to five daysThe widespread rainfall has also brought down daytime temperatures Jaipur recorded a maximum temperature of 327 degrees Celsius which is 21 degrees below normal Other maximum temperatures included 27 degrees Celsius in Ajmer 30 degrees in Alwar 298 in Kota 296 in Chittorgarh and 308 in Dungarpur Meanwhile Jaisalmer 40 degrees and Barmer 393 degrees remained the hottest places in the stateThe Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for very heavy rainfall for Banswara Baran Bhilwara Bundi Chittorgarh Dungarpur Jhalawar Kota Pratapgarh Rajsamand Salumbar and Udaipur Also a yellow alert has been sounded in Ajmer Alwar Beawar Bharatpur Dausa Deeg Dholpur Jaipur Jhunjhunu Karauli KhairthalTijara KotputliBehror Sawai Madhopur Sikar Sirohi Tonk Balotra Barmer Bikaner Churu DidwanaKuchaman Hanumangarh Jaisalmer Jalore Jodhpur Nagaur Pali Phalodi and Sri GanganagarThe IMD has forecast widespread rainfall with heavy showers at several places and isolated spells of extremely heavy rainfall across the Kota Jaipur Bharatpur Ajmer Udaipur Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions around July 26Eastern and southeastern Rajasthan are expected to experience the most significant impact during this spellThe ongoing rainfall is being driven by a cyclonic circulation over northeastern Rajasthan and the monsoon trough passing through the state These systems are drawing continuous moisture from the Bay of Bengal sustaining active monsoon conditions over RajasthanThe rainfall is also expected to benefit Kharif crops providing muchneeded moisture for agricultural activities across the state IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/monsoon-intensifies-in-rajasthan-imd-issues-heavy-rain-alert-for-next-four-days-693979.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-govt-to-hold-anti-tobacco-programme-in-every-school-to-wean-students-off-addiction-693980.html Kolkata July 23 The West Bengal government has taken special initiatives to wean school students off tobacco addiction A new Standard Operating Procedure SOP has been issued and sent to the chief health officer of each district said a government official on Thursday The guidelines state that an antitobacco awareness programme will be conducted in every school If someone is addicted to tobacco they will be given behavioural counselling If necessary they will be sent to a higher health centreAccording to the new SOP every school will have to conduct a selfassessment of 100 marks once in six months Only schools that score 90 per cent or more will receive the certificate of TobaccoFree Educational Institution TOFEIThe initiative has been taken following a recent survey on youth which showed that 85 per cent of students between the ages of 13 and 15 are addicted to cigarettes or gutkha in BengalA special team is being formed in each block to make schools tobaccofree The team will include Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram RBSK Medical Officer Staff Nurse Pharmacist Research Counsellor and Block Health Manager They will visit schools in the blockExperts believe that this initiative of the West Bengal government will help students in giving up tobacco addiction Public health officials said that the aim of the Tobacco Free Educational Institution TOFEI programme is to make all educational institutions tobaccofree The antitobacco Act 2003 should be enforced more strictly as per the SOPIn addition to raising awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco the students will also be informed about the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act COTPA 2003Quizzes posters and debate competitions will be organised in schools The responsibility of the research counsellors is to create awareness among students as well as parents Discussions about the harms of tobacco will be held in parent teacher meetingsA tobacco monitoring committee will be formed in every school They will check whether tobacco is being sold within 100 yards of the school Coordination between parents local panchayats youth organisations and police stations will be established in schools to prevent the sale of tobaccoAccording to the Health Department to get the certificate of a tobaccofree educational institution the school will have to comply with some conditions A Tobacco Free Area board will have to be hung in a conspicuous place on the school campus A banner of a tobaccofree institution will have to be placed at the main gate of the school There will be no signs of cigarettes bidi pieces gutkha khaini packets or spit stains on the school premises IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/bengal-govt-to-hold-anti-tobacco-programme-in-every-school-to-wean-students-off-addiction-693980.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/man-stabbed-to-death-in-jabalpur-family-alleges-poor-response-by-ambulance-emergency-services-693984.html Jabalpur July 23 A 30yearold man was allegedly stabbed to death following an altercation with a fellow villager in Madhya Pradeshs Jabalpur district police said on Thursday The family of the deceased man has alleged poor response by ambulance and emergency services resulted in delay in taking him to hospital The incident took place late Wednesday night in Saliwada village under the Bargi police station limitsThe deceased was identified as Namami Patel a welder by professionAccording to police Patel was sitting outside his house after dinner when he got into an argument with another villager identified as Ghanshyam KevatBargi police station received information about the incident late on Wednesday night Prima facie it appears that the victim was attacked with a sharpedged weapon following a dispute A murder case has been registered and efforts are underway to arrest the accused Bargi police station SHO saidPatel was first taken to the government health centre at Bargi and later referred to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College in JabalpurHowever he succumbed to his injuries while being taken to the medical college police saidThe victims family alleged that they repeatedly contacted the 108 ambulance service and the 112 emergency response service after the attack but help did not reach on timeThey claimed they were forced to shift Patel to the hospital in a private vehicle The family further alleged that the ambulance at the Bargi hospital was not operational due to a mechanical fault compelling them to again use a private vehicle to take him to the medical collegeThey claimed doctors told them that timely medical attention could have improved his chances of survivalThe allegations regarding the ambulance service have also come to our notice We are verifying all aspects of the case including the claims made by the family Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the enquiry the SHO saidPolice said Patel had been married around a year ago The motive behind the killing will become clear after the accused is arrested and questioned IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/man-stabbed-to-death-in-jabalpur-family-alleges-poor-response-by-ambulance-emergency-services-693984.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/23-july-1927-when-india-found-its-voice-693986.html New Delhi July 23 âBahujana Hitaya Bahujana Sukhayaâ For the welfare and happiness of the many This timeless Buddhist ideal drawn from the teachings of Lord Buddha has guided All India Radio Akashvani ever since it became Indiaâs public broadcaster More than a motto it became a national mission to inform educate inspire and unite As India observes 23 July National Broadcasting Day we commemorate not merely the beginning of radio broadcasting in 1927 but the birth of an institution that quietly shaped the consciousness of modern IndiaIf 15 August 1947 gave India political freedom I often believe that 23 July 1927 began the long process of integrating the minds and hearts of Indians Radio became the invisible thread that stitched together a civilisation of extraordinary diversity into one national familyFor me however this day carries a far deeper and more personal meaning My association with All India Radio is not merely professional it is the story of three generations of my family whose lives were intertwined with AkashvaniMy late father ND Raina joined the Hindi Division of the External Services in 1956 as a scriptwriter His pen gave life to nearly sixtyeight radio plays including programmes such as Hawa Mahal and numerous childrens stories Through his writing I witnessed how radio entered millions of homes carrying imagination where television had yet to reachMy fatherinlaw H K Ramakrishna was among the pioneers of the Kannada News Unit at All India Radio New Delhi Later he served from 1985 as the Kannada news broadcaster with Radio Moscow until his retirement in 1991 His distinguished career reflected the international reach of Indian broadcasting and its commitment to linguistic diversityMy wifeâs family too remained closely associated with Akashvani through her father and his brother Dr H K Ranganath who held several important positions in the organisation and contributed significantly to public broadcasting Destiny brought me to All India Radio in 1982 after my fathers untimely demiseBefore joining the Indian Foreign Service in 1986 I worked in the Hindi Division of the External Services Those four years became one of the richest learning experiences of my life I had the privilege of working with legendary broadcaster Devki Nandan Pandey producer Dr SSS Thakur and several distinguished colleagues including Nirmala Joshi Y K Sharma Savitri Thakur Prem Joshi and many accomplished announcers from Urdu Nepali Swahili Arabic and across different divisions I also participated in Dr Thakurâs radio adaptation of the MahabharataAmong my most treasured memories remains the opportunity to interview the great poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan at his residence where he spoke with remarkable warmth about his literary journey and family Also got the chance to interact with many top artists and film personalitiesThe history of All India Radio mirrors the evolution of modern India Radio broadcasting began on 23 July 1927 when the Indian Broadcasting Company inaugurated its Bombay station Following financial difficulties the Government assumed responsibility in 1930 under the Indian State Broadcasting Service On 8 June 1936 it became All India Radio and in 1956 officially adopted the beautiful name Akashvani âVoice from the SkyâThe launch of Vividh Bharati in 1957 transformed popular broadcasting while the establishment of Prasar Bharati in 1997 gave public broadcasting greater autonomy Yet its greatest contribution cannot be measured merely through institutional milestonesAt Independence India possessed only six radio stations Today Akashvani reaches almost the entire population and over ninetytwo percent of the countryâs geographical area But its real achievement lies elsewhere It made India hear itself Before highways satellites and the internet connected us radio carried the voices of every region into every homeIt introduced Indians to one anotherâs languages music folklore literature festivals and aspirations It brought classical musicians and folk artists national recognition It guided farmers educated families informed citizens during wars elections and national emergencies and became the trusted companion that greeted millions every morning and bade them good nightAs someone who grew up inside the world of Akashvani I can confidently say that radio did not merely broadcast India it helped create the idea of India It nurtured an Indian mind while respecting every regional identity It transformed diversity into shared belongingEven today despite television digital media and social networking platforms I begin my mornings with radio It reminds me of history introduces me to forgotten personalities informs me of national events enriches me with music and literature and continues to offer a depth and credibility rarely matched by other mediaRadio remains intimate dependable and profoundly human On this National Broadcasting Day therefore we should celebrate not merely an institution but a civilisational forceThe story of All India Radio deserves to be taught to our younger generations for it is through Akashvani that millions first learnt what it meant to belong to India For my family Akashvani has been a lifelong companionFor the nation it has been its enduring voice And for me All India Radio will always remain the soul of India Long Live India and AIR IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/23-july-1927-when-india-found-its-voice-693986.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/no-negotiation-on-dharmendra-pradhans-resignation-cjp-to-continue-protest-693988.html New Delhi July 23 IANS The Cockroach Janta Party CJP on Thursday said that it will not negotiate on the demands seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over exam paper leaks while maintaining that if the Centre wants to communicate with the agitators it will have to hold a meeting at the protest site at Jantar MantarnbspSpeaking to reporters CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke said Our protest will continue as it has been We will not withdraw it until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns We also want Sonam sir Wangchuk to end his hunger strike because we do not want him to put his life at risk His life is very valuable for the countryWangchuk who is currently admitted at Gurugrams Medanta Hospital entered the 26th day of his hunger strike on Thursday A day before the activist had said that he would end his fast if the Centre assured that no action would be taken against the protestersRegarding talks with the government Dipke alleged that the CJP delegation was kept waiting for hours during their meeting with Union Minister JP NaddaWe had been kept waiting for five hours and out of which the conversation was held for only 10 minutes Who does like that It was a total wastage of time he saidThe CJP founder added On one hand we were called for a meeting while students were brutally beaten up on the other Whatever the government wants to communicate the next meeting will take place at Jantar MantarReacting to Naddas remarks that the agitation is being politicised he said If he Nadda dislikes politics so much then why doesnt he retire from politicsthey are the ones who do politics hold election rallies and ask for votes We are instead seeking justice for studentsReferring to the swarm of protesters at the Jantar Mantar CJP national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka said Thousands of people have gathered there and lakhs are protesting across the country This is the biggest success of the movementit has inspired an entire generation to stand up and fight for their rights People are no longer sitting quietly or living in fear they are asking questions from those in powerOn the meeting with Nadda on Monday Ranka echoed saying We had gone two days ago for talks but it was a waste of our time at JP Naddas residence If he wants to hold discussions he should come to Jantar Mantar himselfour demands are very clearwe want Dharmendra Pradhans resignation There is no negotiation on thatMoreover the CJP spokesperson remarked that paper leaks are happening because incapable and corrupt people are sitting in the system from top to bottom with Dharmendra Pradhan at the topUntil accountability is fixed fear is instilled in those responsible and systems are designed to prevent leaks this problem will not end Dharmendra Pradhan is an incompetent and corrupt person he told reportersIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/no-negotiation-on-dharmendra-pradhans-resignation-cjp-to-continue-protest-693988.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 13:26:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/neet-leak-row-thackeray-brothers-criticise-centre-announce-joint-protest-march-on-july-26-693991.html Mumbai July 23 IANS In a joint press conference Shiv Sena UBT Chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena MNS President Raj Thackeray on Thursday came together to sharply criticise the NDA government at the Centre over the ongoing NEET exam paper leak controversy and the police action against protesting students in Delhi They also announced a joint protest march on July 26nbspAnnouncing the major political and social mobilisation both leaders declared that they will lead a massive nonpartisan protest march in Mumbai on Sunday July 26 starting from Shivaji Park Shivtirtha to the Siddhivinayak TempleDrawing parallels to past political resignations including former Maharashtra Home Minister RR Patils exit following the 2611 attacks Raj Thackeray asserted that accountability must start at the topHe stated that the issue has crossed Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and now directly reaches Prime Minister Narendra ModiRaj Thackeray condemned the Centres refusal to hold dialogue with protestors citing previous instances like the farmers agitation the Manipur crisis and the Ladakh protestsFarmers were dying earlier now students will be forced to commit suicide What kind of arrogance of power is this that the administration refuses to listen to anyone he askedHe noted that had the NDA government initiated talks with the students over the NEET paper leaks the hunger strike by educator and innovator Sonam Wangchuk and the protest by the Cockroach Janata Party would not have happenedPromising a peaceful protest Raj Thackeray warned that if any attempt is made to infiltrate or disrupt their rally like in New Delhi their supporters would take strict actionUddhav Thackeray condemned the police action against student protestors in Delhi alleging that young women were beaten with nailembedded batons and had their clothes tornHe questioned how individuals in civil attire were handed police batons to suppress the agitationExpressing deep frustration over the response from the judiciary Uddhav Thackeray stated that the courts seem to have time for minor issues like stray animals and pigeons but fail to deliver timely justice to students facing severe state pressureCalling the current administration merciless he urged citizens and political leaders across the board to stand up for the countrys youthBoth Uddhav and Raj Thackeray stressed that the rally will carry no political party flags only the Indian National Flag will be displayed They said the students parents Opposition leaders including MVA allies and any citizens concerned with the students future can participate in Sundays marchIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/neet-leak-row-thackeray-brothers-criticise-centre-announce-joint-protest-march-on-july-26-693991.html Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:31:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/union-ministers-jp-nadda-jitendra-singh-meet-sonam-wangchuk-at-gurugram-hospital-693817.html New Delhi July 22 IANS Union Ministers JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh met innovator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram shortly after he was shifted there from Delhis Safdarjung Hospital for further treatmentnbspWangchuk was discharged from Safdarjung Hospital earlier in the evening and taken to Medanta in an ambulance under tight security in compliance with a Delhi High Court order He was admitted to the hospitals Intensive Care Unit ICU under the supervision of Dr Sushila Kataria an internal medicine specialist according to hospital officialsThe meeting held on Tuesday night between the two Union ministers and Wangchuk came as the activist continued his indefinite hunger strike which entered its 24th day on TuesdayThe meeting came a day after the activist said he would continue his indefinite hunger strike until protesting student leaders were allowed to meet MPs at Parliament House or parliamentarians visit him at the hospitalOn Monday Wangchuk in a handwritten note from Safdarjung Hospital said he would continue his fast until protesting student leaders were allowed to meet Members of Parliament at Parliament House or he himself was permitted to meet parliamentarians at the hospitalnbspEarlier on Tuesday Wangchuks wife Gitanjali J Angmo said he had decided to continue the hunger strike until Parliament takes cognisance of the Delhi Polices alleged action against protesters during the Sansad Chalo marchShe alleged that students were beaten lathicharged and teargassed and said Wangchuk had extended his fast in solidarity with them until their demands were heard in ParliamentReacting to allegations of several agitators attacking police personnel Angmo said I was in the truck when the police entered and forcefully tried to take Abhijit too Around me everyone made a human chain and protected me If this was happening to me when I was behind that truck then whatever happened with students we have all seen it If I had been alone and something was done to me I would have defended myself tooIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/union-ministers-jp-nadda-jitendra-singh-meet-sonam-wangchuk-at-gurugram-hospital-693817.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-file-fir-after-attack-on-raf-personnel-during-cjp-protest-10-cases-registered-so-far-693818.html New Delhi July 22 IANS The Delhi Police have registered an FIR following an alleged attack on a Rapid Action Force RAF personnel during the Cockroach Janata Party CJP protest in the national capital officials said on WednesdaynbspPolice said the FIR was filed after videos circulating on social media allegedly showed protesters assaulting an RAF personnel The videos also purportedly showed protesters pelting stones at an RAF vehicle and damaging the vehicle during the confrontationThe action was taken after the alleged attack on the RAF personnel with police beginning an investigation into the incident Further details regarding the accused and charges are awaitedThe Delhi Police said that a total of 10 FIRs have been registered so far in connection with the CJP protest and various lawandorder incidents during the demonstrationThe cases have been registered at multiple police stations across central Delhi Parliament Street Police Station has registered four FIRs while Connaught Place Police Station has registered three cases One FIR each has been filed at Mandir Marg Police Station Barakhamba Road Police Station and Kartavya Path Police StationAccording to police the FIRs relate to different incidents reported during the protest and matters involving the maintenance of public order The investigation into all the cases is currently underwayThe FIRs come after clashes broke out during the CJPled Sansad Chalo march on Monday when thousands of protesters and students attempted to march from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament Police had placed barricades and imposed restrictions to prevent the march from moving beyond the designated protest areaMeanwhile the Delhi Police on Tuesday denied claims of stonepelting and police action circulating on social media describing the videos as false and misleadingIn a post on X DCP New Delhi said no such incident had taken place on Tuesday and urged citizens not to believe or share such videos The police advised people to rely only on official sources for verified information and updatesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-file-fir-after-attack-on-raf-personnel-during-cjp-protest-10-cases-registered-so-far-693818.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ls-adjourned-a-minute-after-reconvening-despite-speakers-assurance-to-discuss-oppn-issues--693821.html New Delhi July 23 IANS The Lok Sabha was adjourned until noon just one minute after it reconvened on Wednesday as the Opposition MPs continued to shout slogans and gather at the well of the HousenbspDespite Speaker Om Birlas assurances that their concerns would be addressed after the Question Hour the uproar persistedThe Opposition MPs holding banners advanced to the well of the House and demanded a discussion on the NEETUG paper leak controversy The Speaker promised that there would be ample time for members to discuss the issue following the Question Hour however the noise did not subsideThis is the Question Hour The MPs who have questions are given a chance to speak during this I am ready to discuss the subjects on which you have given notice after the Question Hour I will provide sufficient time to discuss your issues Speaker Birla saidnbspIf you do not want to let the House function in an orderly manner then it cannot function the Speaker said eventually leading to the adjournment till noonThe disruptions follow similar scenes witnessed for the past few days of the Monsoon Session when repeated adjournments affected proceedings in both Houses of ParliamentOpposition parties had staged protests demanding discussions on a range of issues including the examination paper leaks and the Cockroach Janta Partyled protest at Delhis Jantar Mantar leading to repeated interruptions in parliamentary businessEarlier in the day Opposition parties intensified their attack on the Centre alleging that the government is unwilling to accept responsibility or engage in meaningful discussions on key public issues and instead prefers to indulge in a blame gameOpposition leaders claimed they have repeatedly sought a discussion in Parliament on the alleged NEETUG paper leak examinationrelated irregularities and the police action against protesters during the Chalo Sansad march held on Monday but have not been allowed to raise these matters in the HouseAccording to the Opposition when important public issues are not discussed inside Parliament people are compelled to voice their concerns on the streets They cited Tuesdays protest near 7 Lok Kalyan Marg where Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and several other Opposition MPs staged a demonstration over the issueIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ls-adjourned-a-minute-after-reconvening-despite-speakers-assurance-to-discuss-oppn-issues--693821.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/heavy-rain-lashes-parts-of-rajasthan-as-monsoon-regains-momentum-693828.html Jaipur July 22 IANS The southwest monsoon has regained momentum across Rajasthan following the formation of a weather system over the Bay of Bengal triggering widespread rainfall and a sharp drop in temperatures The India Meteorological Department IMD has issued an orange alert for four districts on Wednesday while the remaining districts are under a yellow alertnbspHeavy rain has lashed several parts of the state since early morningUdaipur recorded its heaviest rainfall of the season while Kota and Baran received more than five inches of rain leading to overflowing rivers waterlogging and the opening of a gate at the Kalisindh DamLight to moderate showers have also been reported from Jaipur KotputliBehror Ajmer and several other districtsThe Meteorological Centre Jaipur has forecast that the monsoon will remain active across Rajasthan until July 25 with heavy rainfall likely in many districtsAccording to the IMD the highest rainfall during the last 24 hours was recorded in Chhipabarod Baran which was 130 mm followed by 101 mm in Sultanpur Kota Heavy rainfall was also recorded in Hanumangarh Bundi Alwar Karauli Jhunjhunu and Sawai Madhopur while light to moderate showers occurred in Dausa Jhalawar Tonk Nagaur Udaipur Churu Sri Ganganagar and BharatpurUdaipur witnessed nearly an hour of intense rainfall early Wednesday morning bringing the citys heaviest spell of the current monsoon season The showers brought down temperatures significantly and drew visitors back to popular tourist spots after the rain easedHeavy rainfall in Ajmer led to waterlogging in several localities disrupting traffic and leaving vehicles stranded On Taragarh Road in Subhash Nagar an overflowing underconstruction drain spilled onto the road A twowheeler rider fell into a pothole filled with rainwater and was rescued by local residents The district recorded 394 mm 15 inches of rainfall in the past 24 hours helping reduce the rainfall deficit while making the weather considerably cooler Continuous rain in the Hadoti region has caused the Parvan and Kalisindh rivers to swellIn Manoharthana Jhalawar the Parvan River rose nearly 3 feet submerging a small bridge and part of a templeWith inflows increasing from Madhya Pradesh authorities opened one gate of the Kalisindh Dam by about 010 metres releasing nearly 426 cusecs of waterThe widespread rainfall has brought substantial relief from heat and humidity across the state Maximum temperatures fell by 4 degrees to 9 degrees Celsius in cities including Jaipur Alwar Pilani Sikar Ajmer Churu and Sri Ganganagar Although Jaisalmer remained the hottest city at 396 degrees Celsius no location in Rajasthan recorded a maximum temperature above 40 degrees for the first time in nearly two weeksOn Wednesday an orange alert was issued for four districts while a yellow alert was announced for the rest of Rajasthan Monsoon is expected to remain active till July 25 in the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/heavy-rain-lashes-parts-of-rajasthan-as-monsoon-regains-momentum-693828.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 12:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-action-during-neet-stir-reaches-mp-assembly-as-cong-bjp-hold-rival-protests-693832.html Bhopal July 22 IANS The political row over the police action against Leader of Opposition LoP in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and students protesting NEET paper leak in New Delhi reached the Madhya Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday with the Congress and the BJP holding rival stirs during the third day of the Monsoon SessionnbspCongress MLAs led by Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar arrived at the Assembly wearing black armbands to protest the use of force by the Delhi Police against Rahul Gandhi and students in the national CapitalThey demanded a discussion on the issue in the HouseSpeaking to reporters Singhar stated that students protesting for their future were lathicharged and tear gassed in DelhiHe claimed the BJP government was avoiding a discussion on the issue in the AssemblyThe NEET paper leak recruitment scams unemployment and atrocities against students have become the BJP governments youth policy Young people are seeking answers but the government is showing arrogance Singhar claimedThe Congress protest came a day after its MLAs staged a latenight demonstration at the Madhya Pradesh Assembly premisesThe legislators gathered inside the Assembly complex to express solidarity with Rahul Gandhi and protest against the police action on Congress leaders and students in the national CapitalThe developments in Bhopal are part of a larger political confrontation between the BJP and the Congress over the events in DelhiThe Congress has accused the Delhi Police of using excessive force against Rahul Gandhi party workers and students during a protest while the BJP has defended the police action saying it was carried out according to lawMeanwhile the BJP announced a counterprotest in Bhopal later on Wednesday State BJP leaders and workers are scheduled to march to and gherao the Madhya Pradesh Congress headquarters accusing the party of misleading people and trying to gain political mileage from the Delhi incidentThe rival protests added to the political heat during the Monsoon Session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly with both the ruling BJP and the Opposition Congress using the developments in Delhi to target each otherIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-action-during-neet-stir-reaches-mp-assembly-as-cong-bjp-hold-rival-protests-693832.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 13:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-issues-notice-on-pil-raising-concerns-over-hpv-vaccination-programme-for-girls-693862.html New Delhi July 22 IANS The Delhi High Court on Wednesday agreed to examine a Public Interest Litigation PIL challenging the Centres rollout of the Human Papillomavirus HPV vaccination programme for adolescent girls under the Universal Immunisation Programme UIPnbspnbspA Division Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia issued notice on the plea and directed the Union government to place on record by next week data relating to adverse events following HPV vaccinationDuring the hearing the CJ Upadhyayaled Bench observed that the issues raised in the petition are of a serious nature particularly as they concern girl childrenThe Delhi High Court also asked Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma to assist the court in the matterThe PIL filed through advocate Rohit Kumar seeks protection of the constitutional rights of young girls including their rights to life personal liberty bodily autonomy and informed consent under Articles 21 and 19 of the ConstitutionThe petition challenges the inclusion of the HPV vaccine Gardasil in the Universal Immunisation Programme and alleges that the vaccine is being administered to girls aged around 14 years in schools and public health facilities without proper informed consent or prior approval from parentsIt further alleged that frontline health workers including ASHA workers have been assigned enrolment targets resulting in undue pressure on young girls to receive the vaccineThe entire programme has been launched without any credible data with respect to the efficacy of the vaccine and the actual requirement of the population the plea statedReferring to an alleged case involving a 14yearold girl from Tamil Nadu the petition claimed that she developed severe neurological symptoms including loss of voice paralysislike weakness inability to walk and blurred vision within days of receiving the HPV vaccine in March this yearIt also referred to similar reported incidents from Gwalior and Bihar to question the safety monitoring mechanismThe plea contended that compulsory vaccination violates the settled constitutional principle of bodily integrity and personal autonomy under Article 21 arguing that no individual can be compelled to undergo vaccination or any other medical treatment without informed consentIt also referred to concerns raised in the past regarding HPV vaccines including the findings of the 72nd Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare 2013 which had flagged alleged irregularities in clinical trials of Gardasil and Cervarix including deviations from protocol and lapses in obtaining participants consentThe petition further argued that HPV infection is only one among several risk factors associated with cervical cancer and claimed that the longterm effectiveness of HPV vaccines remains uncertain It submitted that regular screening of women between the ages of 30 and 65 years remains the most effective strategy for preventing cervical cancerThe petition also referred to international litigation involving Gardasil claiming that Merck ampamp Co had announced a settlement exceeding 50 million in more than 200 lawsuits alleging serious health complications following vaccinationAccording to the plea these developments raise additional concerns regarding the vaccines longterm safety profile Seeking judicial intervention the petition has prayed for appropriate directions regarding the implementation of the HPV vaccination programme contending that the present rollout raises serious concerns relating to informed consent safety scientific basis and public health prioritiesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-issues-notice-on-pil-raising-concerns-over-hpv-vaccination-programme-for-girls-693862.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/jp-nadda-says-govt-ready-for-neet-debate-in-parliament-urges-oppn-rahul-gandhi-to-shun-politics-693925.html New Delhi July 22 IANS Union Health Minister JP Nadda has affirmed that the government is fully prepared for an indepth debate in Parliament regarding the NEET medical entrance exam paper leak and student concerns Addressing a press conference on Wednesday Nadda stated that the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes the issue with the utmost seriousness However he cautioned Rahul Gandhi and the Opposition against using the situation to score political points emphasising that student welfare must take precedence over political gamesHighlighting paper leak incidents across several nonNDA states Nadda criticised the Oppositions selective stance He pointed to instances such as the Service Selection Board exam leaks in Jammu and Kashmir board exam leaks in Himachal Pradesh JAC paper leaks in Jharkhand and intermediate exam leaks in TelangananbspFurthermore he noted paper leaks in Tamil Nadus BEd exams West Bengals police constable recruitment Punjabs Group D tests PSC exams in Kerala and PUC board exams in Karnataka Questioning why the Opposition remains silent on these incidents within UPAaligned states Nadda asserted that their approach reflects a desire for political mileage rather than genuine care for student justiceWhy is Rahul Gandhi so selective he asked Moving past a blame game Nadda emphasised that Parliament remains the ideal forum for a constructive resolution He assured that the government is ready for discussions of any durationwhether 12 or 18 hoursas decided by the Business Advisory CommitteenbspReaffirming that the government has already engaged with Opposition leaders in a cordial manner and responded to their written queries Nadda urged all parties to act responsibly protect the countrys youth and work together in Parliament to build a foolproof examination system for the futureThe Minister reinforced that the government has consistently maintained an opendoor policy welcoming all constructive suggestions aimed at restoring complete transparency in competitive testing By inviting Opposition members to submit their concerns in writing the administration has demonstrated its commitment to addressing procedural flaws directlyHe appealed to leaders across political lines to transcend partisan motives and join hands in Parliament ensuring that millions of hardworking aspirants receive the justice clarity and secure academic environment they rightfully deservenbspOn his meeting with activist Sonam Wangchukwho is currently on a hunger strike and admitted to a private hospital in Delhi Nadda said he met him to inquire about his health The Minister stated that he urged Wangchuk to break his fast and come forward to lead the nations youth in a positive directionNadda added that Wangchuk has written a letter to the government which will respond accordinglynbspAddressing Mondays alleged police action against protesting students at Jantar Mantar Nadda reiterated that the government remains open to discussing all issuesnbspMeanwhile regarding demands for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhans resignation Nadda maintained that Parliament is the appropriate forum where all matters should be discussedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/jp-nadda-says-govt-ready-for-neet-debate-in-parliament-urges-oppn-rahul-gandhi-to-shun-politics-693925.html Wed, 22 Jul 2026 21:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rahul-gandhi-demands-govts-apology-for-crackdown-on-protesting-students-693771.html New Delhi July 21 IANS Leader of Opposition LoP Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday hit out at the Centre over brutal crackdown on students protesting at the Jantar Mantar against NEET paper leaks and demanded an unconditional apology from the governmentnbspSpeaking to newsmen outside the Parliament the Congress MP said that the students are raising their voice against the broken education system and using force to quell their stir was beyond all reasoningTaking a direct shot at the government as well as the Prime Minister he demanded that the latter apologise for ordering a lathi charge on the agitating students and advised it to rather take an honest review of the education systemnbspPeople are being beaten and thrashed this is completely unacceptable Why is the Prime Minister silent He should speak up He should apologise and stop this nonsense police thrashing students for raising their voice Rahul said while flanked by party MPs including Priyanka GandhiHe said that the countrys youth are protesting against the creaking education and testing system and the whole nation knows that it has been hollowed out by termites and broken beyond repairnbspHe said that the Congress party has been vocal about fixing the education system having raised the matter on multiple platforms but the government didnt pay heed to their demandsnbspThe Congress leader was also unsparing in his criticism of the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla as he accused the latter of being partisan in matters of public debateHe also met Speaker Om Birla earlier in the day putting forth a demand for discussion on police action against the studentsnbspPost his meeting he took to his X handle and wrote Our demand is simple Parliament must have a detailed discussion on the brutality unleashed on students yesterday and on the governments complete lack of accountability for the examination crisisnbspWith Congress escalating its protest over police crackdown on peaceful protest by the students the Parliament facing repeated disruptions over paper leaks donation row and other issues seems headed for another washout for the second consecutive dayIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rahul-gandhi-demands-govts-apology-for-crackdown-on-protesting-students-693771.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuk-stable-blood-sugar-still-low-693717.html New Delhi July 21 IANS Activist Sonam Wangchuk continues to receive medical treatment at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital New Delhi with doctors maintaining close supervision over his condition according to the latest health bulletin issued by the hospital on TuesdaynbspThe bulletin released at 900 am said Wangchuks vital parameters remain stable but his medical team is closely monitoring ongoing concerns related to his blood sugar levels electrolyte balance and blood countsSonam Wangchuk continues to receive medical treatment at VMMC ampamp Safdarjung Hospital under the close supervision of a multidisciplinary team of experts from VMMC ampamp Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS New Delhi the hospital saidDoctors said his blood sugar levels continue to remain on the lower side while his serum potassium level was recorded at 32 mEqL from a sample collected the previous night The bulletin also noted that Wangchuk continues to have persistent pancytopenia a condition marked by anaemia and reduced leukocyte white blood cell countsThese clinical and laboratory parameters warrant continued close monitoring through serial investigations the hospital saidWangchuk is currently receiving oral rehydration therapy ORS and oral potassium supplementation However the bulletin stated that he continues to decline intravenous fluids and glucose administration despite repeated medical advice from doctorsIn view of his ongoing mild to moderate dehydration persistent laboratory abnormalities and the physiological stress associated with prolonged fasting sustained medical supervision and continuous clinical monitoring remain essential the hospital saidThe medical team said continued observation is necessary to track his recovery and identify and manage any possible complications arising from his prolonged fast and current health conditionAll necessary medical care is being provided and his clinical condition remains under close and continuous assessment the bulletin addedFurther treatment decisions will be based on Wangchuks clinical progress and the results of ongoing laboratory investigations according to the hospitalWangchuk was removed from Jantar Mantar on Saturday by Delhi Police and admitted for medical care He declared in a handwritten note on Monday that he would continue his fast now in its 23rd day until protesting student leaders were allowed to meet Parliamentarians or he himself was permitted to meet them in hospitalIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuk-stable-blood-sugar-still-low-693717.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-protest-clashes-police-analyse-250-videos-to-identify-miscreants-693718.html New Delhi July 21 IANS The Delhi Police have intensified their investigation into the violence that erupted in central Delhi during the protest initiated by the Cockroach Janata Party CJP and officials are relying extensively on video evidence to identify those involved in the unrestnbspInvestigators are examining more than 250 videos including mobile phone recordings CCTV footage drone camera visuals and footage captured through police bodyworn cameras to trace the individuals allegedly responsible for the violenceAccording to officials the video material is being scrutinised to identify the miscreants who allegedly participated in the protests and subsequent acts of vandalism Police are also verifying whether any of those identified have previous criminal records as part of the ongoing investigationInvestigators are further examining whether those involved in Mondays violence had arrived at Jantar Mantar with a preplanned strategy or whether the incidents unfolded spontaneouslynbspThe probe is also focusing on whether the individuals allegedly involved in stonepelting vandalism and attacks on police personnel and official vehicles during the Sansad Chalo on Monday were acting in a coordinated and organised mannerThe investigation is also exploring whether people were mobilised or incited through WhatsApp or Telegram groups before the violence broke out in New DelhinbspOfficials are analysing digital evidence and communication patterns to establish whether there was any organised planning behind the unrestMeanwhile the Delhi Police have registered a First Information Report FIR at the Connaught Place police station in connection with the commotion and vandalism reported in the areanbspThe case has been filed against unidentified persons as investigators continue efforts to identify those responsibleAccording to the police a group of miscreants vandalised police vehicles and allegedly pelted stones at a police team near Regal Cinema on the Outer Circle of Connaught Place during Mondays violencenbspFurther investigation into the incident is underway and officials said all available evidence is being examined to establish the sequence of events and identify those involvedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-protest-clashes-police-analyse-250-videos-to-identify-miscreants-693718.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:07:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-raids-eight-bluru-locations-in-isis-recruitment-linked-money-laundering-probe-693719.html Bengaluru July 21 IANS The Enforcement Directorate ED on Tuesday conducted searches at eight locations across Bengaluru in connection with a money laundering investigation linked to the alleged recruitment and funding of individuals to join the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria ISIS terror outfit in SyrianbspThe probe is based on a First Information Report FIR registered by the National Investigation Agency NIA under provisions related to unlawful activities and terrorismAccording to the ED preliminary findings indicate that funds routed through the Iqra Welfare Trust and GFM Trust were allegedly used to finance and facilitate the recruitment of vulnerable individuals into ISISOfficials said the searches were carried out as part of an ongoing effort to trace the flow of funds identify those involved in the alleged network and gather evidence relating to the financing of terror activitiesThe central agency is examining financial transactions and other materials seized during the raids to determine the extent of the alleged money laundering operation and its links to ISIS recruitment activitiesIt can be noted that the National Investigation Agency NIA has chargesheeted five persons allegedly linked to the banned terrorist organisation ISIS Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant ISIL and AlDawlah alIslamiyah fi alIraq wa alSham Daesh for conspiring to radicalise and recruit Muslim youth in BengalurunbspAccording to the chargesheet the accused used the Iqra Camp and Quran Circle programmes to identify and influence recruits raise funds and facilitate their illegal travel to Syria via Turkiye to join ISISnbspnbspThe Enforcement Directorate ED also alleged that the group exploited antiCAANRC sentiments to spread ISIS ideology through secure social media platforms The group further facilitated the illegal travel of recruits to Syria via Turkiye to join ISIS and fight against the government of SyriaThe group was also conspiring and acting to incite Muslims against nonMuslims in India and to spread ISIS ideology through secure social media platforms More information is awaitednbspFurther investigation is underwayThe official statement is awaited in this regardIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-raids-eight-bluru-locations-in-isis-recruitment-linked-money-laundering-probe-693719.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/it-went-well-nadda-on-meeting-with-cjp-members-693720.html New Delhi July 21 IANS Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Tuesday said that his meeting with the Cockroach Janata Party CJP members was finenbspTwo representatives of the CJP met Nadda at his residence on Monday They submitted a written memorandum outlining the groups three key demands after holding detailed discussions earlier in the dayWhen asked about his talks with the CJP members Nadda while arriving for the NDAs Mangal Milan programme said It went well It a meeting always goes well However he did not comment on the assurances given to the protestorsnbspAccording to government sources the first meeting took place at around 1150 am when the CJP delegation presented its demands verbally Nadda asked the representatives to submit them in writing At around 4 pm the delegation returned and handed over a written memorandum detailing their demandsThe CJP delegation represented by spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka demanded the release of social activist Sonam Wangchuk without any restrictions on his movement the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Rs 1 crore compensation for the families of NEET aspirants who allegedly died by suicide following the NEET 2026 paper leak controversyGovernment sources said that no assurances were given by Nadda on any of the three demands during the meeting However the Union Minister appealed to the protesters to withdraw their monthlong sitin at Jantar Mantar and cooperate with the administration in restoring normalcy in the highsecurity area near ParliamentFollowing the meeting Nadda took to X and said the discussions were held in a cordial atmosphere and noted that the CJP itself had approached the government seeking talks He confirmed that the delegation submitted its written petition at around 4 pm after extensive discussions that began earlier in the dayMeanwhile the demonstrators stayed at Jantar Mantar on Tuesday morning persistently continuing their protest the day after violent confrontations occurred between them and security forces in Delhi during the Sansad Chalo MarchAfter police dismantled the stage and tents from Jantar Mantar the protesters reclaimed the area Following a call from the CJP for the protest to persist demonstrators began to arrive at Jantar Mantar early Tuesday A significant presence of police and RAF personnel remained deployed at the locationThe clashes erupted on Monday as thousands of supporters of the CJP and students marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over recurring examination irregularities including the NEETUG paper leaksThe Delhi Police have intensified their investigation into the violence that erupted on Monday and officials are relying extensively on video evidence to identify those involved in the unrestnbspInvestigators are examining more than 250 videos including mobile phone recordings CCTV footage drone camera visuals and footage captured through police bodyworn cameras to trace the individuals allegedly responsible for the violenceMeanwhile the Delhi Police have registered a First Information Report FIR at the Connaught Place police station in connection with the commotion and vandalism reported in the areanbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/it-went-well-nadda-on-meeting-with-cjp-members-693720.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-took-swift-action-over-paper-leak-says-pm-modi-calls-on-lawyers-to-ensure-severe-penalties-693721.html New Delhi July 21 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Tuesday that the issue of paper leaks is not limited to a single state or the Central government rather it is a matter of concern for the entire nation while adding that the government has acted promptly resulting in the arrest of 13 individuals related to the case so farUnion Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that during the NDAs Mangal Milan programme Prime Minister Modi urged lawyers to unite and ensure that those guilty face the strictest punishmentHe said that PM Modi highlighted the achievements of the youth of India and stressed that our time energy and focus should be on the youth and their futureSpeaking to the reporters on the discussions held at the NDA meeting Rijiju said Regarding the NEET paper leak case the Prime Minister said that as soon as reports of the paper leaks emerged the government took immediate action Thirteen people were arrested and sent to jail At the same time to ensure that the future of students was not affected conducting the NEET reexamination was given top priority and it was successfully held without any delay in the declaration of resultsThose involved in the paper leak racket who have been identified and arrested have been sent to jail Prime Minister ji also appealed that top lawyers should support efforts to ensure the strictest possible punishment for those involved in heinous crimes like paper leaks so that strong deterrent measures can prevent such incidents in the future he addedThe Prime Minister remarked that the issue of paper leaks is not confined to any single state or the Central government but is a matter of concern for the entire nation All states and political parties must unite to take action against this crime This is not a matter of partisan politics but an issue concerning the future of the country and its youth he addedRijiju stated that Prime Minister Modi has stressed that the youth of the country will not only be given full assurance for the prevention of future paper leaks but also to show them ways so that the youth of India can take a leadership role in the worldHe said that the Prime Minister also praised Skyoot Aerospace for the successful launch of Vikram1 The youth of India are making tremendous success in different fields So we will devote our time and energy and focus on the youth and their future Rijiju addedThe Union Minister said the meeting was good and the Prime Minister also spoke about the achievements India has accomplished over the past few months including the Free Trade Agreements signed with several countries which he said are in favour of the farmers and the countryRijiju further stated that during the ongoing Monsoon Session the NDA will play a positive role He said that the NDA will remain united to ensure passage of the bills and legislative business brought by the government before ParliamentAppealing to the Opposition the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said We may have differences as political parties but Parliament is meant to work for the country for its future and for the youth We have all been elected as Members of Parliament for this purpose and everyone should work together to ensure the smooth functioning of ParliamentIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-took-swift-action-over-paper-leak-says-pm-modi-calls-on-lawyers-to-ensure-severe-penalties-693721.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/opposition-uproar-forces-second-adjournment-of-lok-sabha--693722.html New Delhi July 21 IANS The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the second time on Tuesday this time till 2 pm as persistent sloganeering and protests by Opposition members continued to disrupt proceedings during the Monsoon Session of ParliamentPresiding over the House Sandhya Ray announced the adjournment after repeated appeals to Opposition members to maintain order went unheedednbspDespite several requests from the Chair members of the Opposition continued raising slogans forcing the House to be adjourned once againThis marked the second adjournment of the Lok Sabha on Tuesday Earlier in the day Speaker Om Birla had adjourned the House till noon after repeated disruptions prevented normal proceedings from continuingAppealing to members to allow the House to function Birla said Do you not want the House to run Everyone will get a chance to raise their issuesHowever the Opposition benches continued their protests and sloganeering resulting in another disruption of proceedings and eventually leading to the second adjournmentBefore the days parliamentary business commenced leaders of the INDIA bloc held a meeting to chalk out their strategy for the days proceedingsnbspCongress president Mallikarjun Kharge Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi NCP SP MP Supriya Sule and several other Opposition leaders attended the meetingnbspMeanwhile the Lok Sabha is scheduled to take up the Supreme Court Number of Judges Amendment Bill 2026 for consideration and passage later in the dayThe disruptions follow similar scenes witnessed on the opening day of the Monsoon Session on Monday when repeated adjournments affected proceedings in both Houses of ParliamentnbspOpposition parties had staged protests demanding discussions on a range of issues including the examination paper leaks and the Cockroach Janta Partyled protest at Delhis Jantar Mantar leading to repeated interruptions in parliamentary businessIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/opposition-uproar-forces-second-adjournment-of-lok-sabha--693722.html Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:32:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/parliament-has-experienced-mps-nation-needs-their-knowledge-says-pm-modi--693649.html New Delhi July 20 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that amid global uncertainties India requires the knowledge of experienced parliamentarians to ensure the Parliament functions smoothly to facilitate meaningful discussions and to foster a collective determination to advance the nationHe said that India maintaining a growth rate of 77 per cent despite the West Asia crisis reflects the countrys inherent strength and offers a reflection of the enthusiasm and zeal with which India aspires to achieve new milestonesnbspAddressing the media at the start of the Monsoon Session of Parliament PM Modi said Everyone is aware and the world is concerned about the threat of war in various regions The war in West Asia has posed a major crisis for nations like India which relies on others for its energy needs petrol diesel LPG fertilisers and chemicals However despite this India has maintained a growth rate of 77 per cent emerging as the fastestgrowing major economy in the worldnbspThe Prime Minister said that this reflects Indias inherent strength and offers a reflection of the enthusiasm and zeal with which India aspires to achieve new milestonesnbspAgainst this backdrop the Monsoon Session is commencing the nation has gathered momentum and the spirit of Parliament infuses fresh energy into that pace A positive spirit is very essential for achieving the countrys goal Our Parliament also has many experienced parliamentarians regardless of their party affiliation At a time like this both Parliament and the nation need their experience and knowledge Therefore I believe the need of the hour is the functioning of Parliament meaningful discussions and a collective resolve to take the nation forward he addedThe countrys youth who are full of aspirations demand that we move forward PM Modi saidnbspToday it is the demand of the hour that the voice of those filled with national dedication and living for national devotion gets a proper platform in the House May they raise their voices to provide direction to the nation and therefore I hope and I am firmly confident that where there are facts and where there is logic there is no place for creating a storm he addedThe Prime Minister further called on the parliamentarians to engage in productive debate and ensure that every voice finds an opportunitynbspWhen arguments and evidence are solid one can effectively convey their message even in a composed manner I hope that the discussions in the House will benefit from such reasoning and evidence May every voice have a chance to be heard and may every concept receive due respect I encourage all Members of Parliament to engage wholeheartedly in the proceedings of the House he addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/parliament-has-experienced-mps-nation-needs-their-knowledge-says-pm-modi--693649.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:56:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuk-to-end-hunger-strike-today-if-three-conditions-fulfilled-693652.html New Delhi July 20 IANS Activist Sonam Wangchuk who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for more than three weeks said he would end his fast on Monday only if the three conditions outlined in a handwritten letter from Safdarjung Hospital are fulfillednbspWangchuk who is on the 23rd day of his fast has been admitted to Safdarjung Hospital on July 18 In the handwritten note which he shared on X the activist alleged that he was being kept under illegal detention at the hospitalAddressing his supporters Wangchuk wrote Dear friends ampamp Supporters many of you have asked when I will end my fast As mentioned earlier to supporters I will end my fast on 20th July if the government takes accountability for the recent failures in the education system paper leaks etcIf I ampamp the leadership of CJP reach the doorsteps of Parliament where Honourable MPs ampamp leaders of various parties assure us that they will now take up the issue in the Parliament he addedIn the letter Wangchuk also outlined a third condition stating that if his health or other circumstances made it impossible for him to continue the fast he would agree to end it if Members of Parliament and leaders from different political parties visited him at the hospital and provided the same assurance that the issue would be raised in ParliamentThe activist has maintained that his protest is aimed at drawing attention to what he describes as serious shortcomings in Indias education system particularly the recurring issue of examination paper leaks His demand he said is for the government to acknowledge responsibility for these failures and commit to meaningful corrective actionWangchuks health has drawn widespread public attention with supporters expressing concern and hoping for his swift recovery The hospital reiterated that his treatment is being managed with the highest level of care and expertise reflecting the seriousness of his condition and the need for continuous vigilanceIn his latest message Wangchuk reiterated that his decision to end the fast rests on concrete assurances rather than verbal promises He said he would continue his protest unless the government accepted accountability for the education systems failures or elected representatives committed to taking up the matter in ParliamentIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuk-to-end-hunger-strike-today-if-three-conditions-fulfilled-693652.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/hm-amit-shah-to-table-bill-today-making-insulting-vande-mataram-a-criminal-offence-693653.html New Delhi July 20 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to introduce the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Amendment Bill 2026 in the Rajya Sabha on Monday the first day of the Monsoon Session of ParliamentnbspThe proposed legislation seeks to make insulting or obstructing the singing of the national song Vande Mataram a criminal offence by extending to it the same statutory protection that is currently accorded to the National Anthem Jana Gana ManaThe Bill proposes to amend the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act 1971 which currently criminalises acts of disrespect towards the countrys national symbols including the National Flag the Constitution and the National Anthem Under the existing law anyone found guilty of intentionally preventing the singing of the National Anthem or causing a disturbance during its rendition can be punished with imprisonment of up to three yearsIf passed by Parliament the amendment will bring Vande Mataram under the same legal framework making intentional insult disruption or obstruction of the National Song a punishable offence carrying a maximum sentence of three years in prisonAccording to the proposed legislation any person who intentionally prevents or disturbs the singing of Vande Mataram or disrupts a gathering engaged in its rendition will be liable for the same penalties that currently apply to offences involving the National AnthemThe move is aimed at giving the National Song the same legal and statutory status as the National Anthem While Vande Mataram has long been recognised as Indias National Song it has so far not accorded the same level of statutory protection under the 1971 ActThe legislative move comes days after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs MHA on July 9 directed all states to ensure strict compliance with its order that Vande Mataram be played before Jana Gana Mana whenever both are performed during official government functionsThe Bill is listed in the Rajya Sabhas agenda for Monday If approved by both Houses and assented to by the President the amendment will make insulting or obstructing the National Song a criminal offence under Indian lawIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/hm-amit-shah-to-table-bill-today-making-insulting-vande-mataram-a-criminal-offence-693653.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/monsoon-session-ls-adjourned-briefly-amid-oppn-sloganeering--693655.html New Delhi July 20 IANS The Lok Sabha has been adjourned till noon amid heavy sloganeering by the Opposition on the first day of the Monsoon Session of ParliamentnbspSpeaker Om Birla assumed the proceedings of the House by paying homage to the former MPs who passed awaynbspSoon after that the Opposition benches started sloganeering creating chaos in the HousenbspSpeaker Birla reiterated that peace be maintained and said The Parliament is the highest forum of democracy and time will be allotted to everyone to speaknbspShortly after Lok Sabha was adjourned till noonEarlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that amid global uncertainties India requires the knowledge of experienced parliamentarians to ensure the Parliament functions smoothly to facilitate meaningful discussions and to foster a collective determination to advance the nationThe Monsoon Session is commencing the nation has gathered momentum and the spirit of Parliament infuses fresh energy into that pace A positive spirit is very essential for achieving the countrys goal Our Parliament also has many experienced parliamentarians regardless of their party affiliation At a time like this both Parliament and the nation need their experience and knowledge Therefore I believe the need of the hour is the functioning of Parliament meaningful discussions and a collective resolve to take the nation forward he addedThe countrys youth who are full of aspirations demand that we move forward PM Modi saidnbspToday it is the demand of the hour that the voice of those filled with national dedication and living for national devotion gets a proper platform in the House May they raise their voices to provide direction to the nation and therefore I hope and I am firmly confident that where there are facts and where there is logic there is no place for creating a storm he addedThe Prime Minister further called on the parliamentarians to engage in productive debate and ensure that every voice finds an opportunitynbspWhen arguments and evidence are solid one can effectively convey their message even in a composed manner I hope that the discussions in the House will benefit from such reasoning and evidence May every voice have a chance to be heard and may every concept receive due respect I encourage all Members of Parliament to engage wholeheartedly in the proceedings of the House he addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/monsoon-session-ls-adjourned-briefly-amid-oppn-sloganeering--693655.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/president-murmu-to-honour-rajasthan-mother-who-designed-special-chair-for-son-with-cerebral-palsy-693656.html Jaipur July 20 IANS When a school refused admission to her son because he couldnt sit independently Neha Solanki chose not to accept defeat Instead the psychologist and mother embarked on a mission that has now earned her national recognition On July 31 President Droupadi Murmu will honour Neha with the Grassroots Innovator Recognition 2026 by NITI Aayogs Atal Innovation Mission for designing an innovative adaptive chair for children with cerebral palsynbspA resident of Pali and daughterinlaw of the Hemliawas family in Marwar Junction Neha transformed a deeply personal struggle into a solution that could benefit thousands of children with disabilities across India The journey began in 2023 when Neha sought admission for her son Duranjay who has cerebral palsyA school principal told her that the child needed to learn to sit properly before he could be admitted explaining that the school lacked suitable seating arrangements for children with special needsRather than giving up Neha decided to solve the problem herself not just for her son but for countless other children facing similar barriers to education Doctors had informed Neha that Duranjay who was born prematurely at 27 weeks weighing just 900 grams had cerebral palsyThe diagnosis marked the beginning of years of challenges with schools repeatedly turning him away because they lacked the infrastructure to support children with disabilities Determined to make a difference Neha pursued a Masters degree in Rehabilitation PsychologyDuring her studies she realised that the real obstacle was not the child but the absence of disabilityfriendly equipment in schools Working closely with physiotherapists and occupational therapists Neha spent nine months researching and developing an indigenous adaptive seating system for children aged 3 to 12 years with cerebral palsyThe specially designed chair provides complete body support enabling children to sit comfortably and safely while studying eating writing or participating in classroom activitieswithout the risk of falling or requiring constant assistanceThe innovation has already transformed Duranjays daily life allowing him to learn and perform routine activities with greater independenceRecognising the social impact of her innovation NITI Aayogs Atal Innovation Mission selected Neha Solanki among 26 grassroots innovators from across India for the Grassroots Innovator Recognition 2026 She will receive the prestigious honour from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony in New Delhi on July 31Nehas story is a powerful reminder that determination empathy and innovation can turn personal adversity into a solution that transforms lives ensuring that no child is denied education simply because the right support system does not existIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/president-murmu-to-honour-rajasthan-mother-who-designed-special-chair-for-son-with-cerebral-palsy-693656.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-upholds-delhi-hc-verdict-quashing-tender-for-passport-visa-outsourcing-at-4-indian-missions-693687.html New Delhi July 20 IANS The Supreme Court on Monday refused to interfere with the Delhi High Court judgment setting aside the technical evaluation process for outsourcing Consular Passport and Visa CPV services at Indian Missions in Abu Dhabi UAE Kuwait Singapore and Canberra Australia while directing the Union Ministry of External Affairs MEA to complete the fresh tender process within three monthsnbspA Bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana dismissed the Centres special leave petition SLP challenging the Delhi High Court verdictDuring the hearing Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for the Centre submitted that the Delhi High Court had erred in quashing the tender process and contended that the evaluation criteria had been applied on the basis of each bidders individual competenceSG Mehta also sought liberty to approach the Delhi High Court again with additional reasons supporting the tender evaluation However the apex court declined to interfere with the High Courts judgment and dismissed the pleaRecognising the need to ensure that passport visa and consular services at Indian Missions abroad are not disrupted the Supreme Court modified the High Courts directions to permit interim arrangements until a fresh tender process is completedThe CJI Kantled Bench directed that the MEA may continue with the existing service providers if their performance has been satisfactory or engage any other agency including the existing L1 bidders for the interim periodIt clarified that such an arrangement would be purely temporary would not create any special equities in favour of any party and would remain subject to the outcome of the fresh Request for Proposal RFP processThe top court further directed the MEA to complete the fresh tender exercise as expeditiously as possible preferably within three months in compliance with the Delhi High Courts directions adding that the interim arrangement would be without prejudice to the rights and contentions of all partiesIn a judgment delivered on July 15 the Delhi High Court had set aside the technical evaluation process for outsourcing CPV services at the four Indian Missions holding that the assessment of bidders was vitiated by arbitrariness irrationality and lack of transparency in violation of Article 14 of the ConstitutionA Division Bench of Justices Anil Kshetrapal and Shail Jain had allowed petitions filed by E Trav Tech Limited and Verasys Limited challenging their disqualification at the technical bid stage in tenders floated by the MEAThe High Court had held that although courts ordinarily do not sit in appeal over technical assessments by expert bodies judicial review was warranted where the decisionmaking process was arbitrary opaque and failed to satisfy the constitutional requirements of fairness transparency and equalityIt had also nullified the award of contracts in favour of the successful private bidders and directed the MEA and the concerned Indian Missions to issue fresh RFPs while permitting the existing service providers to continue operations until the fresh tender process was completed to avoid disruption in public servicesThe Centre had approached the Supreme Court against the Delhi High Court judgment and on July 17 SG Mehta mentioned the matter before the apex court seeking an urgent hearing following which it was listed for hearing on MondayIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-upholds-delhi-hc-verdict-quashing-tender-for-passport-visa-outsourcing-at-4-indian-missions-693687.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 15:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-dismiss-report-of-cjp-founders-detention-call-it-misleading-693689.html New Delhi July 20 IANS The Delhi Police have dismissed reports claiming that Cockroach Janta Party CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke was detained or arrested during the protests near ParliamentThis came as CJP spokesperson Saurav Das initially posted claims that Dipke had been picked up by police during the Sansad Chalo protestRefuting the claims the Delhi Police said Misleading reports are currently circulating on various social media platforms claiming that Abhijit Dipke has been detained by the Delhi Police It is formally clarified that these allegations are entirely false and he is available on stageFollowing the police statement Saurav Das issued a retraction confirming that Dipke was neither detained nor placed under arrestDipke not in detention or arrest A HUGE CROWD is still outside Kerala House Saurav Das posted on XTensions remained high in Delhi as the Cockroach Janta Party CJP and its supporters took part in the Sansad Chalo protest on Monday calling for accountability from the government regarding the NEETUG paper leak caseAs the protesters tried to advance towards Parliament House they encountered a light police force intended to maintain law and orderCJP spokespersons Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka presented their demands to Union Minister JP Nadda on Monday stating that the Health Minister assured them that he would discuss the protestors demands internally with the leadershipThe protest has been organised to press for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEETUG paper leak case and other examinationrelated irregularities including the 12th CBSE Board that have sparked nationwide concerns over the integrity of competitive examinationsAt Jantar Mantar the situation turned tense as clashes broke out between police and demonstrators with security personnel attempting to stop them from crossing barricadesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-police-dismiss-report-of-cjp-founders-detention-call-it-misleading-693689.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:08:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rajya-sabha-chairman-radhakrishnan-asks-members-to-uphold-dignity-of-house--693690.html New Delhi July 20 IANS Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan on Monday called upon House members across all sides to uphold the dignity discipline and decorum of this august institution and promote meaningful deliberationsnbspIn his opening remarks at the start of the Monsoon Session Radhakrishnan said that while differences of opinion are integral to parliamentary democracy they must be expressed in a manner that preserves the sanctity of the HouseDisruptions should not be allowed to undermine its functioning he saidThis session has an important legislative and deliberative agenda I urge members to remain focused on the timely disposal of business as every disruption delays discussion on matters affecting the nation and the people we represent said the Rajya Sabha ChairmanHe called upon members to uphold the Houses proud tradition of meaningful deliberationsI am confident this session will uphold that legacy We have 19 sittings before us and it is our collective responsibility to utilise this valuable time to debate and decide on issues of national importance he saidSharing information about the new services introduced from this session Radhakrishnan said that the Secretariat has introduced live AIbased simultaneous interpretation of the proceedings in nine languages through the multimedia devices at members seatsThis facility will gradually be expanded to all 22 scheduled languages Members are requested to share their feedback for further improvement he saidDuring the first day of the 271st Session of the Rajya Sabha the Chairman administered the oath of office and secrecy to many newly elected members of the HouseThe elected representatives hailing from different political parties became new Rajya Sabha members after the recently held biennial electionsThose who took the oath of office include Congress leader Pawan Khera Sushmita Dev Sukhendu Sekhar Roy and Prakash Chik Baraik West BengalMahesh Kevat Madhya Pradesh Dr Mukeshbhai J Rathwa Gujarat and Dr Satish Poonia Rajasthan were also administered the oath by RadhakrishnanIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rajya-sabha-chairman-radhakrishnan-asks-members-to-uphold-dignity-of-house--693690.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/india-committed-to-investor-friendly-business-environment-president-murmu-693697.html New Delhi July 20 IANS President Droupadi Murmu on Monday invited Moldovan businesses to explore investment and trade opportunities in India saying the country is among the worlds fastestgrowing major economies and offers a transparent predictable and investorfriendly business environment as it moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047nbspAddressing the IndiaMoldova Business Forum in Chisinau during her state visit to Moldova President Murmu said India sees trusted international partnerships as central to achieving shared prosperity and sustainable economic growthIndia offers good business opportunities for Moldovan companies for trade and business We remain committed to fostering a transparent predictable and investorfriendly business environment the President saidDescribing her visit as the firstever state visit by an Indian President to Moldova she said it reflects Indias commitment to strengthening bilateral ties across political economic cultural and peopletopeople spheresMy visit to Moldova is the first state visit by an Indian President which reflects Indias commitment to deepening engagement with Moldova in all spheres including political economic cultural and peopletopeople ties I am accompanied by a large business delegation from India President Murmu saidTheir presence demonstrates the growing confidence of Indian industry in Moldovas economic potential and its commitment to building longterm partnerships the President statedPresident Murmu said India and Moldova have enjoyed warm and friendly relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1992 with the partnership founded on mutual respect democratic values and a shared commitment to peace development and international cooperationIndia today is among the fastestgrowing major economies driven by entrepreneurship digital transformation manufacturing excellence and a young skilled workforce President Murmu mentionedAt the same time Moldova has a richly oriented outlook strategic location talented human capital and growing integration with European markets which makes it an important destination for Indian businesses the President addedThe President identified several sectors with significant potential for bilateral collaboration including digital technologies artificial intelligence cybersecurity fintech digital public infrastructure infrastructure development renewable energy advanced manufacturing logistics agriculture food processing pharmaceuticals biotechnology and healthcareIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/india-committed-to-investor-friendly-business-environment-president-murmu-693697.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 17:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/1993-firing-mamata-banerjees-statement-was-not-recorded-in-probe-report-says-cm-adhikari-693711.html Kolkata July 20 IANS The statement of former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was not recorded in the report of the Justice Susanta Chatterjee Retired Commission which the previous Trinamool Congress government constituted to probe the deaths of 13 Youth Congress workers in police firing during a protest rally on July 21 1993 said Chief Minister Suvendu AdhikarinbspCM Adhikari tabled the Justice Susanta Chatterjee Retired Commission report which was not made public during the last 15 years of the Trinamool Congress regime from 2011 to 2026 on the floor of the West Bengal Assembly on Monday and informed that even Mamata Banerjee did not appear before the Commission to get her statements recorded in the matterIncidentally the protest rally over which the police firing took place on July 21 1993 was led by Mamata Banerjee who was then associated with the Congress as the Youth Congress President in West Bengal and the Congress Lok Sabha MP from Kolkata Dakshin ConstituencynbspLate Jyoti Basu was the Chief Minister of the ruling Left Front government in West Bengal then and the Indian Administrative Service IAS officer Manish Gupta was the West Bengal Home Secretary thenHowever Gupta joined the Trinamool Congress before the 2011 Assembly elections contested as a party candidate and became a member of the Mamata Banerjeeled cabinet first and subsequently a Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha member Recently he had announced his decision to quit politicsnbspCM Adhikari informed the House that Mamata Banerjees predecessor and Late Jyoti Basus successor as the West Bengal Chief Minister Late Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee appeared before the Commission and got his statements recorded thereAfter tabling the report on the floor of the House CM Adhikari also claimed that the police or the state secretariat during the previous Mamata Banerjeeled regime did not submit the relevant documents in the matter to the CommissionA total of 44 people were summoned to take testimony Among them were former Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya and several police officers But Mamata Banerjee who was supposed to be the main witness in the incident was not called by the Commission The former Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly Late Pankaj Banerjee was summoned But he refused to give testimony Pankaj Banerjee stated Mamata Banerjee gave Manish Gupta who was responsible for the shooting incident as the then Home Secretary a prime berth in her cabinet giving testimony was useless CM Adhikari saidHe said the previous Mamata Banerjee government also did not adhere to the recommendation of the Justice Susanta Chatterjee Retired Commission regarding the compensation for those killed in police firingnbspNo information or documents were handed over to the Commission from the then state secretariat of Writers Buildings The Commission also did not get the truth about the deaths in police firing The Commission recommended a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the families of the 12 deceased who were identified and Rs 12 lakh for the injured The previous Mamata Banerjeeled government did not accept the recommendation of the Commission on compensation You gave only Rs 200000 to the family of the deceased persons and Rs 15000 to the injured ones You should be ashamed I am asking families of the injured or deceased to file a fresh FIR in the matter Our government will give that opportunity And if you want compensation as recommended by the commission we will also give that money from the Chief Ministers Relief Fund CM Adhikari addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/1993-firing-mamata-banerjees-statement-was-not-recorded-in-probe-report-says-cm-adhikari-693711.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 20:28:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/himachal-cabinet-approves-npa-for-super-specialist-medical-faculty-693712.html Shimla July 20 IANS The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Monday approved the grant of nonpractising allowance NPA to superspecialist medical faculty possessing recognised DM MCh and DrNB qualifications serving under the Department of Medical Education and ResearchnbspThe Cabinet also approved an increase in the stipend of postgraduate students serving under the Department of Medical Education Under the revised rates firstyear students will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 50000 instead of Rs 40000 secondyear students Rs 60000 instead of Rs 45000 and thirdyear students Rs 65000 instead of Rs 50000It was decided to enhance the cash prize of awardee teachers under the Teacher Award Policy National awardees will now receive a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh instead of Rs 60000 while state awardees will receive Rs 1 lakh instead of Rs 40000 It was also decided not to grant extension in service to awardee teachersnbspThe Cabinet further approved an increase in the monthly honorarium of nambardars by Rs 500 from Rs 4500 to Rs 5000 and the monthly honorarium of ASHA workers by Rs 1000 under the Health Department from Rs 5800 to Rs 6800 with effect from April 1It also approved the introduction of BSc Medical Technology Radiotherapy Technologist and Bachelor of Radiation Therapy Technology courses with an annual intake of 30 seats each at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital in Shimla and Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in TandanbspThe Cabinet decided to establish an All India Institute of Ayurveda at Dhaneta in the Nadaun area of Hamirpur district with 75 acres of land identified for the purposeIt approved the Road Safety Audit Policy aimed at minimising the risk of crashes on new road projects and on existing roads and reducing the severity of accidents where they occur or are likely to occurnbspThe Cabinet also approved the procurement and distribution of fishing boats for fishermen with a 70 per cent subsidy through the Direct Benefit Transfer DBT mechanism in 202627 It further approved a subsidy scheme for the distribution of fishing gear including cast nets and gill nets with a 90 per cent subsidy through DBT in 202627Additionally the Cabinet decided to establish postharvest infrastructure and cold chain facilities by providing a 70 per cent subsidy through DBT for the establishment of 20 cold storage units 5 MT capacity 10 freezedry units and 20 refrigerated vans for eligible beneficiariesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/himachal-cabinet-approves-npa-for-super-specialist-medical-faculty-693712.html Mon, 20 Jul 2026 20:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-orders-environmental-audit-of-28-urban-water-sewerage-projects-study-on-manual-scavenging-693521.html Chennai July 19 The Tamil Nadu government has initiated an independent environmental and social audit of 28 major water supply and underground sewerage projects being implemented across 21 urban local bodies while also commissioning a dedicated study on manual scavenging and hazardous sewercleaning practices as part of its urban infrastructure reforms The projects are being executed under the Tamil Nadu Climate Resilient Urban Development Programme TNCRUDP a sixyear World Bankassisted initiative running from 2024 to 2030The programme approved by the World Bank in December 2023 aims to strengthen water security improve climate resilience and modernise urban governance across the stateTamil Nadu Urban Infrastructure Financial Services Ltd TNUIFSL the implementing agency has invited bids to appoint an independent consultant to carry out the audit The exercise will assess whether urban local bodies and implementing agencies have complied with the environmental and social safeguards prescribed under the programme while executing projects during 202425The audit covers four categories of infrastructure works These include seven underground sewerage schemes involving only sewer collection networks in Salem Thoothukudi Karaikudi Tiruvarur Krishnagiri Theni and Avadi Another seven projects comprise underground sewerage systems with sewage treatment plants in Tiruvannamalai Pudukkottai Namakkal Dharmapuri Cuddalore Dindigul and KancheepuramThe review will also cover a citywide water supply improvement project in Kancheepuram and 13 pilot projects providing roundtheclock water supply in Avadi Karaikudi Pudukkottai Tiruchy Thoothukudi Tirunelveli Erode Vellore Cuddalore Dindigul Tambaram Nagercoil and RajapalayamThe consultant will classify findings under four categories compliance noncompliance best practices and areas requiring improvement Wherever shortcomings are identified the consultant must revisit the projects after corrective measures have been implemented and verify compliance before submitting the final reportA key component of the assignment is a comprehensive study on manual scavenging and hazardous sewer cleaning The study will examine the policy and legal framework governing sewer maintenance identify gaps in implementation by urban local bodies analyse situations that require hazardous sewer entry and investigate past incidents through field visits and consultations with officials contractors and sanitation workersIt will also review existing standard operating procedures training programmes and safety practices across the sewage management chainThe threemonth assignment will begin with a preliminary compliance report within two weeks followed by a draft report for review by implementing agencies and the World Bank before the final report is submittedThe audit forms part of the World Bankâs ProgrammeforResults financing model which requires independent verification of commitments under the Programme Action Plan prepared after the Environmental and Social Systems Assessment IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-orders-environmental-audit-of-28-urban-water-sewerage-projects-study-on-manual-scavenging-693521.html Sun, 19 Jul 2026 09:37:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-convenes-all-party-meeting-today-ahead-of-monsoon-session-693523.html New Delhi July 19 The government has convened an allparty meeting on Sunday ahead of the commencement of the Parliaments Monsoon Session on July 20 In the meeting scheduled for Sunday at 11 am in the Main Committee Room of Parliament House Annexe the government will request collaboration from all political parties to guarantee the effective operation of both Houses of ParliamentThe Monsoon Session will commence on July 20 and will continue until August 13Announcing the dates of the Monsoon Session Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju took to X and said On the recommendation of the Govt of India Honble President Smt Droupadi Murmu ji has approved the summoning of both the Houses of Parliament for the Monsoon Session 2026 The session will commence on 20 July 2026 and continue till 13 August 2026 for meaningful debate discussion and decisions on issues of National ImportanceThe fourweek session will include 19 sittingsThe divisions within the Trinamool Congress the rift between the DMK and Congress and departures from the Uddhav Sena are likely to change the composition of ParliamentThe ruling NDA is anticipated to increase its numbers while the Opposition INDIA bloc is poised to face a decreaseLok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will make decisions regarding the merger of 20 rebel Trinamool MPs with the lesserknown NCPI He will also determine the merger of six Uddhav Sena MPs with Eknath Shindes Shiv SenaMeanwhile following Congress alliance with the TVK in Tamil Nadu the DMK has sent a letter to the Speaker requesting new seating arrangements for its MPs separate from the CongressAdditionally the 131st Constitution Amendment Bill concerning womens reservation and delimitation which was rejected in the previous session is expected to be prioritisedThe government is also anticipated to introduce the 130th Constitution Amendment Bill which aims to automatically remove chief ministers ministers and the Prime Minister from office if they are detained or under judicial custody for 30 consecutive days in cases involving serious crimesThe One Nation One Election Bill is also expected to be on the Centres agendaThe FCRA Bill Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill and AntiDoping Bill are expected to be presentedProposals to replace the ordinance that increases the number of Supreme Court judges along with bills related to the Code on Wages Central Rules Corporate Law and Securities Market Code may also be introduced IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-convenes-all-party-meeting-today-ahead-of-monsoon-session-693523.html Sun, 19 Jul 2026 09:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/shri-mata-vaishno-devi-yatra-suspended-amid-adverse-weather-693524.html Katra July 19 The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has been suspended as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of pilgrims amid adverse weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir officials said on Sunday This also coincides with the suspension of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra due to the inclement weather forecast Authorities have urged devotees to cooperate and avoid undertaking the pilgrimage until further ordersThey urged pilgrims to stay updated for the latest information on the Yatras resumptionMeanwhile for the Shri Amarnathji Yatra Anshul Garg Divisional Commissioner Kashmir said that in view of the inclement weather forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department IMD the pilgrimage shall remain temporarily suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from Sunday as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and wellâbeing of the pilgrimsHe added that no onward movement of pilgrims will be permitted from the Baltal and NunwanChandanwari base camps from Sunday Updates regarding the resumption of the Yatra will be issued in due course after ensuring route safety and a comprehensive assessment of the weather conditionsSo far over 37 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance at the Holy Cave Shrine during the ongoing Shri Amarnathji Yatra This years SANJYâ2026 started on July 3 and will conclude after 57 days on August 28 coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivalsYatris approach the Holy Cave Shrine situated at 3880 metres above sea level either via the traditional longer Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal routeThose using the Baltal route return to the base camp the same day after having Darshan inside the cave shrineThe cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite that waxes and wanes with the phases of the moon Devotees believe that the ice stalagmite structure symbolises the mythical powers of Lord ShivaDue to security reasons the area beyond the two base camps of Baltal and Nunwan Pahalgam has been declared a Nofly zone No helicopter service is available to the Yatris this year due to this reason IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/shri-mata-vaishno-devi-yatra-suspended-amid-adverse-weather-693524.html Sun, 19 Jul 2026 09:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-govts-flagship-beneficiary-schemes-to-resume-from-august-cm-sarma-693575.html Guwahati July 19 IANS Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday announced that the BJPled state governments flagship welfare schemes will resume from August signalling the rollout of key social assistance programmes ahead of the new financial cyclenbspIn a post on X Sarma said Some familiar names are back at your doorstep Starting this August Orunodoi subsidised essentials and our student welfare schemes will once again reach the people of AssamnbspAccording to the schedule shared by the Chief Minister the distribution of subsidised masoor dal and sugar will restart from August 1 while the monthly financial assistance under the Orunodoi scheme will resume from August 3nbspThe government will also begin distribution of application forms for its student welfare initiatives Nijut Moina and Nijut Babu from August 6 Another flagship programme Jiban Prerana Asoni is scheduled to restart from SeptembernbspThe Chief Minister described the initiatives as Assams blockbuster welfare schemes asserting that they would once again reach beneficiaries across the statenbspOrunodoi is the Assam governments flagship direct benefit transfer DBT scheme aimed at providing financial support to economically weaker households particularly women The scheme has been one of the states largest social welfare programmes since its launch and has undergone periodic expansion to cover more beneficiariesnbspThe subsidised food initiative enables eligible families to purchase essential commodities such as masoor dal and sugar at reduced prices through the public distribution system The Nijut Moina and Nijut Babu schemes are focused on supporting students by providing financial assistance aimed at encouraging higher education and reducing dropout ratesnbspThe announcement comes as the state government continues to emphasise welfare delivery alongside infrastructure development and economic growthnbspThe resumption of these schemes is expected to benefit lakhs of families students and economically disadvantaged sections across AssamnbspThe Chief Ministers announcement also reiterates the governments commitment to continuing its welfareoriented programmes which have remained a key component of the BJP governments governance agenda in the statenbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/assam-govts-flagship-beneficiary-schemes-to-resume-from-august-cm-sarma-693575.html Sun, 19 Jul 2026 23:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-to-launch-rs-542-crore-development-projects-in-barabanki-693576.html Lucknow July 19 IANS Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will visit Barabanki district on Monday July 20 to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for 82 development projects worth more than Rs 542 croreThe ambitious programme will cover the Ramnagar and Dariyabad Assembly constituencies marking a significant push for infrastructure and public welfare in the regionIn Ramnagar the Chief Minister will inaugurate 14 projects valued at over Rs 104 crore and lay the foundation stones for 22 projects worth more than Rs 178 croreSimilarly in Dariyabad he will inaugurate 12 projects worth Rs 29 crore and lay the foundation stones for 34 projects with an investment exceeding Rs 231 croreTogether these initiatives are expected to strengthen local infrastructure improve civic amenities and boost economic activity in the districtThe event will take place at the grounds behind the historic Lodheshwar Mahadev Temple in Ramnagar a site chosen to accommodate the large gathering expected for the occasionThe programme will also highlight the governments commitment to balanced regional development and its focus on rural constituenciesSeveral dignitaries will attend the ceremony including Minister of State for Prisons Suresh Rahi Minister of State for Food and Civil Supplies Satish Chandra Sharma District Panchayat Administrator Rajrani Rawat Members of the Legislative Council Angad Kumar Singh Engineer Avnish Kumar Singh and Umesh DwivediMLAs Sakendra Pratap Verma Kursi Dinesh Rawat Haidergarh and Ramchandra Yadav Rudauli will also be present Baijnath Rawat Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Commission is among the key figures expected to join the programmeOfficials said the projects span multiple sectors including roads education healthcare and public utilities reflecting the governments multipronged approach to developmentThe Chief Ministers visit is anticipated to energise local governance and reassure residents of the administrations commitment to improving living standardsWith over Rs 542 crore earmarked for Barabanki the initiative is being seen as a major step towards accelerating growth in the districtThe largescale rollout of projects underscores the state governments resolve to deliver tangible benefits to citizens and strengthen grassroots infrastructureIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cm-yogi-to-launch-rs-542-crore-development-projects-in-barabanki-693576.html Sun, 19 Jul 2026 23:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ram-temple-donation-row-sit-files-sealed-status-report-in-sc-ahead-of-monday-hearing-693577.html New Delhi July 19 IANS The Uttar Pradesh governmentappointed Special Investigation Team SIT has filed its status report in a sealed cover before the Supreme Court which is slated to hear on Monday a batch of petitions seeking a courtmonitored probe into the alleged financial irregularities in the handling of donations and offerings received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra TrustnbspAs per the causelist uploaded on the apex courts official website the clutch of petitions is scheduled to be heard on July 20 by a Bench of Chief Justice of India CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V MohanaThe petitions include a writ petition filed by advocate Narendra Kumar Goswami a criminal writ petition filed by petitionerinperson Ajay Kumar Rai a separate plea moved by RJD MP Sudhakar Singh and another petition filed by Hindu Dharma ParishadEarlier while issuing notice in the matter the CJI Kantled Bench had directed the SIT constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government to place its status report before the apex court Since it is averred in some of the writ petitions that some FIRs have already been registered and an SIT has been constituted to investigate the matter we direct the SIT constituted by the State of Uttar Pradesh to submit a status report before this Court The status report shall also give full particulars of the composition of SIT the top court had ordered on July 13Appearing for the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government during the previous hearing Solicitor General Tushar Mehta had informed the CJI Kantled Bench that the SITs status report would be placed before the apex court in a sealed cover When the petitioners requested that a copy of the status report also be furnished to them SG Mehta opposed the plea saying the investigation was still in progressDeclining the request at that stage the CJI Kantled Bench had observed We will see later Its an ongoing investigation You know the law We have passed an orderThe petitions seek a courtmonitored investigation into the alleged financial irregularities in the handling of donations and offerings received by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra TrustThe plea filed by advocate Narendra Kumar Goswami seeks preservation of records and evidence relating to donations made at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple and greater transparency in the administration of temple offeringsIn a separate petition RJD MP Sudhakar Singh has sought transfer of the ongoing investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI under the direct monitoring of the Supreme Court His petition also seeks the appointment of a temporary courtmonitored oversight committee preservation of financial records a comprehensive forensic audit and publication of audited financial statements and donation logs on the Trusts official websiteIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ram-temple-donation-row-sit-files-sealed-status-report-in-sc-ahead-of-monday-hearing-693577.html Sun, 19 Jul 2026 23:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuks-wife-says-no-treatment-to-be-given-to-him-without-family-consent-693457.html New Delhi July 18 IANS Innovator educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuks wife Gitanjali J Angmo on Saturday said that no oral or IV treatment should be given to her husband without consent from her his family and longterm doctors amid his admission after over 20 days of hunger strike at Delhis Jantar MantarnbspI am at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi where Sonam Wangchuk has been admitted Nothing should be administered to him orally or intravenous without take consent from me his family and his doctors who have been monitoring his health for the past 20 days Gitanjali said in a post on XWangchuk who has been on a hunger strike for the past 20 days at Delhis Jantar Mantar was shifted to a hospital early on Saturday after his health deterioratedThe move came in compliance with directions of the Delhi High Court and on the advice of medical expertsPolice personnel reached the protest site in the morning and shifted Wangchuk to the hospital amid sloganeering and protests by fellow activistsIn a post on social media platform X the Deputy Commissioner of Police New Delhi said As per orders of Honble High Court and on expert medical advise due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh Sonam Wangchuk he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care While complying with the orders of Honble High Court the protestors tried to create obstruction in which slight commotion ensued however police took maximum restrain and undertook the exercise safely We request the protestors at Jantar Mantar to peacefully vacate the place at the earliestThe police action came ahead of a scheduled hearing in the Delhi High Court on Wangchuks health Earlier this week the High Court had directed authorities to conduct daily clinical health assessments of the activist observing that the life of any citizen is precious and instructing the Centre to ensure all necessary medical intervention to safeguard his lifeWangchuk launched the hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged irregularities in the NEET examinationWangchuk had also called for a march on July 20 commencing from Jantar Mantar to Parliament House to demand the resignation of Pradhan on the first day of the Monsoon SessionIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sonam-wangchuks-wife-says-no-treatment-to-be-given-to-him-without-family-consent-693457.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 11:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/hm-shah-to-visit-bsfs-18th-battalion-border-outpost-in-siliguri-today-693458.html New Delhi July 18 IANS Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday will visit the Border Security Forces BSF 18th Battalion Border Outpost BOP in Siliguri near the IndiaBangladesh border as part of his threeday visit to West BengalnbspDuring the visit scheduled to begin at 11 AM HM Shah will interact with BSF personnel address a Prahari Sammelan participate in a plantation drive and inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for several BSF infrastructure and development projectsFollowing the programme at Jumagach the Union Home Minister will chair a highlevel meeting at the Uttarkanya Auditorium in Siliguri at 130 PM to review border management and securityrelated issues in West Bengal The meeting is expected to focus on strengthening security in North Bengals border areas including the strategically important Siliguri Corridor popularly known as the Chickens NeckLater in the day at 415 PM HM Shah will review the implementation of the three new criminal laws in the state He will subsequently chair another meeting at 545 PM to review issues related to birth and death registration in West Bengal After concluding his engagements in Siliguri the Home Minister will leave for Kolkata in the eveningOn Sunday HM Shah will chair a meeting on the lawandorder situation in West Bengal He is also scheduled to meet with the Superintendents of Police SPs and District Magistrates DMs of all border districts in South Bengal to review security and administrative preparednessDuring his visit to Kolkata the Union Home Minister will inaugurate the newly constructed World Museum at the National Library He will also lay the foundation stone for Amul Bengal Dairys new curd manufacturing plantThe Union Home Minister reached Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri last night on a threeday visit to West Bengal He was received by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on his arrival at the airportHM Shahs threeday visit to West Bengal is focussed on reviewing border security law and order the implementation of key governance initiatives and infrastructure development in the stateIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/hm-shah-to-visit-bsfs-18th-battalion-border-outpost-in-siliguri-today-693458.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 11:50:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/red-alert-for-rain-in-north-bengal-till-monday-heavy-showers-likely-in-south-693463.html Kolkata July 18 IANS The Regional Meteorological Centre RMC at Alipore on Saturday issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in north Bengal till Monday and forecast an increase in rain activity across south Bengal including Kolkata from Tuesday onwardsnbspAccording to the Met office scattered rainfall will continue across south Bengal districts till Tuesday after which moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms is likely to intensify and persist till FridayHeavy rainfall is expected in North 24 Parganas South 24 Parganas and Nadia districts on Tuesday Several other parts of south Bengal are also likely to experience rain and thundershowers with gusty winds reaching speeds of 3040 kmphIn north Bengal Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar districts are likely to receive extremely heavy rainfall on Saturday and Sunday The Met office has also warned of heavy to very heavy rain in Darjeeling Kalimpong Cooch Behar and other districts adjoining the Himalayan foothills till Monday While rainfall activity may ease slightly from Tuesday a heavy rain alert remains in force for Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong till WednesdayMeteorologists attributed the weather conditions to a wellmarked lowpressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal adjoining the OdishaWest Bengal coast along with an associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 58 km above mean sea level The monsoon trough currently stretches from Punjab through Haryana Uttar Pradesh Bihar and West Bengal to the north Bay of Bengal drawing substantial moisture inland and enhancing rainfall activity over the regionThe Met office also warned fishermen against venturing into the sea off the West Bengal coast till Saturday citing strong winds of 3545 kmph gusting up to 55 kmph under the influence of the weather systemMeanwhile Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 277 degrees Celsius on Saturday 08 degrees above normal while Fridays maximum temperature settled at 31 degrees Celsius 18 degrees below normalnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/red-alert-for-rain-in-north-bengal-till-monday-heavy-showers-likely-in-south-693463.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 12:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/lakhs-of-devotees-offer-prayers-before-lord-jagannath-sibling-deities-at-gundicha-temple-during-rath-yatra-693467.html New Delhi July 18 IANS Lakhs of devotees continued to throng Puri in Odisha on Saturday to offer prayers and have darshan of Lord Jagannath Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra who are seated on their majestic chariots in front of the Gundicha Temple as part of the annual Jagannath Rath YatranbspThousands of pilgrims from across the country and abroad gathered at the pilgrimage town to witness the divine darshan of the sibling deities and participate in one of Indias most revered religious festivals The atmosphere remained charged with devotion as devotees chanted hymns offered prayers and sought blessingsTo ensure the smooth conduct of the festivities the Puri Police put in place elaborate crowd management arrangements to regulate the large gathering and facilitate the movement of devotees Security personnel were deployed at key locations while officials monitored the flow of pilgrims to ensure a safe and orderly darshanExpressing his prayers for the wellbeing of humanity a devotee said I pray that the Lord grants wisdom to everyone brings peace to the world and puts an end to the conflicts that are going on May He continue to bless everyone The arrangements are goodAmong the international devotees was Radhika Lila Devi from Hungary who spoke about the profound spiritual experience of witnessing the Rath YatraShe said When I look at the devotees here I get goosebumps I can see so many different emotions on their faces some are crying some are smilingRecalling a touching moment she added I just saw a woman who had brought rice as an offering for the Lord Seeing the devotion of everyone here moves me deeplyDescribing her own spiritual journey Radhika Lila Devi said My tears do not come only because I love the Lord but because I keep asking Him When will I experience that kind of love for you The Lord is like the most powerful magnet there is nothing more powerfulThe worldfamous Jagannath Rath Yatra one of Indias largest and most revered religious festivals commenced on Thursday in Puri drawing lakhs of devotees from across the country to witness the grand annual procession of Lord Jagannath Lord Balabhadra and Goddess SubhadraThe centuriesold festival holds immense religious significance as it is the only occasion when the presiding deities of the Jagannath Temple leave the sanctum sanctorum and travel through the streets of Puri enabling devotees from all walks of life to seek their blessingsDuring the Rath Yatra the three sibling deities are ceremonially placed on magnificently decorated wooden chariots which are pulled by thousands of devotees amid devotional chants religious songs and an atmosphere of deep faithThe annual procession marks the sacred journey of the deities from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple where according to tradition they stay for a few days while visiting their aunt The yatra symbolises divine compassion inclusivity and Lord Jagannaths desire to come out among his devotees to bless everyone irrespective of social or cultural barriersEvery year the festival attracts an enormous congregation of pilgrims sants and tourists from India and around the world making it one of the countrys most significant religious and cultural celebrationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/lakhs-of-devotees-offer-prayers-before-lord-jagannath-sibling-deities-at-gundicha-temple-during-rath-yatra-693467.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 13:30:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-sentences-ex-iob-manager-private-individual-to-3-years-in-loan-fraud-case-693469.html Ahmedabad July 18 IANS A special CBI court in Ahmedabad has sentenced a former Indian Overseas Bank IOB branch manager and a private individual to three years rigorous imprisonment after finding them guilty in a bank fraud case involving fraudulent greenhouse project loans that caused a loss of Rs 260 crore to the bank an official statement said on SaturdaynbspThe CBI said The court on Friday convicted Neeraj Kumar Jain the then branch manager of Indian Overseas Bank Himmatnagar Gujarat and private individual Ketankumar Mohanlal Patel The court sentenced both to three years rigorous imprisonment and imposed fines of Rs 260 lakh on Jain and Rs 110 crore on Patel taking the total fine to Rs 11260000According to the CBI the case was registered on May 8 2014 against Jain and 15 private individualsThe agency alleged that while serving as branch manager between October 2012 and September 2013 Jain entered into a criminal conspiracy with Nileshkumar Dayabhai Patel Ketankumar Mohanlal Patel and 13 other borrowers to cheat Indian Overseas Bank by using forged documents to obtain loans for greenhouse projectsThe CBI alleged that the conspiracy resulted in a wrongful loss of Rs 260 crore to the bank and corresponding wrongful gains for the accused It further alleged that Jain abused his official position by sanctioning and disbursing the loans despite the fraudulent documentationDuring the investigation the agency found that Jain had sanctioned and disbursed 14 agricultural term loans for greenhouse projectsIt alleged that Nileshkumar Dayabhai Patel and Ketankumar Mohanlal Patel secured two and 12 loans respectively by applying in the names of relatives and acquaintances Each loan was sanctioned for Rs 19 lakhAfter completing its investigation the CBI filed a charge sheet on December 24 2014 against Jain and three private individuals Nilesh Dayabhai Patel proprietor of Ms Riya Irrigation Ms ND Agriculture and Ms My Global Village Sabarkantha Ketankumar Mohanlal Patel and Avinash Yashwantkumar Patel proprietor of Ms Sagar Drip Irrigation Kishan Agromill Sarkari Jin Road HimmatnagarFollowing the trial the court convicted Jain and Ketankumar Mohanlal PatelThe charges against Avinash Yashwantkumar Patel could not be substantiated and he was acquitted of all chargesThe trial against Nilesh Dayabhai Patel has been separated as he is abscondingIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-court-sentences-ex-iob-manager-private-individual-to-3-years-in-loan-fraud-case-693469.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 14:24:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/rbis-currency-printing-arm-begins-process-for-polymer-banknotes-with-global-eoi-693472.html New Delhi July 18 IANS India has taken its first formal step towards introducing polymer banknotes with the Reserve Bank of Indias currency printing arm inviting global Expressions of Interest EoIs for the supply of polymer substrate sheets embedded with security features as per multiple reportsnbspBharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited BRBNMPL has invited eligible domestic and international manufacturers to submit bids by August 18 for manufacturing opacified polymer substrate sheets for banknote printingHowever the tender does not specify the denominations proposed for polymer notes or a timeline for their rollout the reports saidIf adopted polymer banknotes would mark a major shift for India where currency has been printed on specialised paper for nearly a centurynbspPolymer notes made from durable plastic films are generally more resistant to wear and tear and have a longer lifespan than conventional paper currencyReports claim that the tender prescribes stringent national security conditions for prospective suppliersnbspMoreover bidders will be required to obtain security clearance from the government isolate any operations in China or Pakistan from the India contract refrain from sourcing raw materials for Indias banknote substrate from the two countries and undertake not to supply Indiaspecific substrate to any third countryEarlier in June Governor Sanjay Malhotra said that the Reserve Bank of India RBI is examining a proposal to introduce polymer or plastic currency notes although no final decision has been taken yetWe are examining the pros and cons of it and whether it would be worthwhile to implement It is still at a preliminary stage he saidMalhotra had said that the proposal remains under consideration and is still at a preliminary stagenbspHe stated that as far as polymer notes are concerned the proposal is under consideration adding that as soon as any decision is taken on it we will inform youIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/rbis-currency-printing-arm-begins-process-for-polymer-banknotes-with-global-eoi-693472.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 14:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vikram-1-launch-a-proud-moment-made-possible-by-opening-space-sector-to-private-players-dr-jitendra-singh-693476.html New Delhi July 18 IANS The successful launch of Skyroot Aerospaces Vikram1 is a proud moment for India and reflects the transformative impact of opening the countrys space sector to private players Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh said on SaturdaynbspSpeaking to IANS after the successful orbital mission Dr Singh said it was a moment of pride for every Indian as for the first time a private company had successfully launched its own rocket according to planCertainly this is a moment of pride for all of us for all Indians For the first time a private company has successfully launched its own rocket according to plan he saidnbspThis became possible because five to six years ago Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the courageous decision to open the space sector to private companies Dr Singh told IANSnbspCongratulating all stakeholders involved in the mission the minister said Skyroot Aerospace had created history by becoming Indias first private company to execute an orbital launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in SriharikotaCongratulations Skyroot for becoming Indias first private player to have executed this launch from Sriharikota Congratulations INSPACe for facilitating this beautiful publicprivate partnership Congratulations ISRO for optimising this collaboration Above all congratulations and many thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making this possible he saidnbspAccording to the minister the rapid progress achieved within just half a decade demonstrates the success of Indias space reformsHe noted that the countrys record of firsttime launch success compares favourably with nations that began their space programmes much earliernbspIts been miraculous over the last just half a decade Half a decade is hardly a time in the life of a space sector If you compare us with those who started much earlier than us our record of firsttime success is remarkably higher compared to other nations Todays achievement adds to that record he saidIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vikram-1-launch-a-proud-moment-made-possible-by-opening-space-sector-to-private-players-dr-jitendra-singh-693476.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 15:17:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cjp-hasnt-sought-permission-for-parliament-march-on-july-20-delhi-police-sources-693477.html New Delhi July 18 IANS The Cockroach Janata Party CJP has not yet sought any permission from the Delhi Police for the Parliament march scheduled for July 20 sources said on SaturdaynbspThey further stated that it is unlikely that the CJP will be granted permission for the march given that it is on the same day as the beginning of the Monsoon Session of ParliamentnbspPermission for the Parliament march has not yet been sought by the CJP Even if the CJP were to seek permission for the Parliament march the police would not grant it due to the Monsoon Session sources saidThe CJP protesting at Delhis Jantar Mantar since June 6 is demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak case The protestors were joined by innovator and activist Sonam Wangchuk who on June 28 officially began an indefinite hunger strike at the protest sitenbspMeanwhile Wangchuk who had been on a hunger strike for 20 days at Delhis Jantar Mantar was shifted to a hospital early on Saturday after his health deteriorated The move was carried out in compliance with directions of the Delhi High Court and on the advice of medical expertsPolice personnel reached the protest site in the morning and shifted Wangchuk to the hospital amid sloganeering and protests by CJP activists and the public gathered therenbspEarlier this week the court directed authorities to conduct daily clinical health assessments of the activist observing that the life of any citizen is precious and asking the Centre to ensure necessary medical intervention to protect his lifenbspFollowing this CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke alleged that Delhi Police beat him and dragged him on the road while he was trying to reach Jantar Mantar after climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital from the protest siteDipke said the protest would continue and accused the police of forcibly removing Wangchuk from the spot He also announced that he has initiated a hunger strikenbspSpeaking to IANS in Delhi Abhijeet Dipke alleged The protest will continue It is very shameful Like thieves and goons the Delhi Police hid and dragged him Sonam Wangchuk away This is not the Delhi Police these are RSS goons They came secretly and like thieves covered Sonam Sir with a sheet hid him and dragged him away just like criminals or the mafia kidnap peopleHe further alleged that police personnel prevented him from reaching Jantar Mantar and used force against himnbspDespite that our protest will continue The Delhi Police also beat me up and stopped me from reaching Jantar Mantar I was beaten dragged on the road and they said Lets see how you go to Jantar MantarnbspDipke also claimed that several legislators and parliamentarians were stopped from entering the protest siteThere are many MLAs and MPs here who have also been stopped at the gate and are not being allowed inside he saidnbspDipke said I am starting my fast from today Our march on July 20 will also happen and my fast will continue These people think that by taking Sonam Sir inside and picking him up from here they can end the protest the protest will not endnbspThe protesters have appealed to political parties to join the demonstration being held to press their demand for the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leakIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cjp-hasnt-sought-permission-for-parliament-march-on-july-20-delhi-police-sources-693477.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 15:20:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/vikram-1-launch-will-inspire-youngsters-to-dream-bigger-drive-innovation-pm-modi-693478.html New Delhi July 18 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated the team of Skyroot Aerospace on the successful launch of Vikram1 saying the milestone reflects the growing strength of Indias private space sector and will encourage youngsters across the country to pursue innovation with confidencenbspIn a post on social media platform X the Prime Minister said he had spoken to the Skyroot Aerospace team and congratulated them on the successful launch of Vikram1Spoke to the team of Skyroot Aerospace and congratulated them on the successful launch of Vikram1 This is a defining moment in Indias space journey The growing participation of our private sector is opening new frontiers and accelerating innovation This achievement will encourage countless youngsters to dream bigger and innovate fearlessly PM Modi wrotenbspEarlier during a telephonic conversation with Skyroot Aerospace CEO Pawan Kumar Chandana and Cofounder Bharat Daka after the successful mission the Prime Minister congratulated the entire team for carrying six payloads including two satellites into a 450km lowEarth orbit aboard Indias first privatelydeveloped orbital launch vehicleAddressing the founders PM Modi said he had watched the entire launch and praised the youthful team behind the achievementnbspCongratulations to Pawan Bharat and the rest of the team Your feat will inspire youngsters to come forward I was watching the entire launch programme today Your entire Skyroot Aerospace team looks like they are 2530 years of age the Prime Minister saidnbspHe also conveyed his grand greetings to the team and expressed hope that Mission Aagaman would continue to achieve greater milestonesnbspCalling the mission a testament to Indias selfreliance PM Modi said the successful launch proved the countrys capability to achieve major technological milestones under the vision of Atmanirbhar BharatnbspChandana informed the Prime Minister that the rocket had been completely designed and manufactured in IndiaIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/vikram-1-launch-will-inspire-youngsters-to-dream-bigger-drive-innovation-pm-modi-693478.html Sat, 18 Jul 2026 15:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/hydrogen-powered-train-reflects-pm-modis-vision-for-green-mobility-piyush-goyal-693297.html New Delhi July 17 IANS Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday described the launch of Indias first indigenous hydrogenpowered train as a truly historic moment for the countrys green mobility journey saying it marks a major step towards a cleaner and more selfreliant transport ecosystemnbspIn a post on X the minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the countrys first indigenous hydrogenpowered train on the JindSonipat route in HaryanaPowered by a 1200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system the 10coach train emits only water vapour making it a nearzero emission mode of transport Goyal saidHe added that the launch marks a significant milestone in the countrys journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat and reflects the governments commitment to innovationled sustainable growthAccording to the minister the project is backed by indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling infrastructure developed at Jind enabling India to join a select group of countries pioneering hydrogenpowered rail transportThe train will initially operate on the 89km JindSonipat section of Northern RailwayUnlike conventional diesel or electric trains the hydrogenpowered train generates electricity onboard through a Proton Exchange Membrane PEM fuel cell Hydrogen stored in onboard cylinders reacts with oxygen from the atmosphere inside the fuel cell to generate electricity for the trains traction motors The only byproducts of the process are water vapour and heatThe train consists of two hydrogen driving power cars and eight trailer coaches with each power car producing 1200 kW of power Designed to carry around 2600 passengers it can run at a maximum speed of 110 kmph making it one of the largest hydrogenpowered passenger trainsets developed globallyTo support operations Indian Railways has established the countrys first integrated railway hydrogen ecosystem at Jind where hydrogen is produced through electrolysis compressed for storage and supplied through dedicated refuelling infrastructureThe project also incorporates multiple safety systems including hydrogen leak detectors flame heat and smoke sensors continuous ventilation and automatic shutdown mechanisms According to the Ministry of Railways the system complies with international safety standards and statutory requirements prescribed by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation PESOThe hydrogen train is part of Indian Railways broader green transition strategy after electrifying more than 99 per cent of the countrys broad gauge network It also supports Indias National Green Hydrogen Mission and longterm netzero goalsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/hydrogen-powered-train-reflects-pm-modis-vision-for-green-mobility-piyush-goyal-693297.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 11:29:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/political-compulsions-behind-july-21-martyrs-day-ownership-race-among-bengal-oppn-blocs-larger-challenge-for-mamata-693299.html New Delhi July 17 IANS Trinamool Congress factions are racing to own July 21 Martyrs Day for a symbolic claim on political legitimacy and a live test of organisational strength while Congress partys invitation to Mamata Banerjee to join its event on condition that she admits that leaving the party was a mistake is a tactical bid to reclaim the days history while exposing the former Chief Ministers weakened positionThe date commemorates the 1993 Youth Congress march led by Mamata Banerjee that turned deadly when Kolkata Police fired on the protestors killing 13 people while several were injured in the resultant stampedeThe march was organised against the then Left Front government with protesters demanding photo voter ID cardsThe incident became central to Mamatas political identity owning the event that signals moral and organisational authorityFour separate events are scheduled this year indicating a contest for show of strengthWith the Trinamool split and many of its MLAs and MPs defecting rival factions and the Congress see July 21 as a chance to demonstrate which grouping can mobilise people and claim the antiestablishment mantleAs the supremo of the then undivided Trinamool Congress Mamata Banerjee preferred to hold her annual rally in the heart of Kolkata But court directions and police constraints have forced a venue rethinkThe Calcutta High Court refused permission for the traditional Victoria House site citing traffic and lawandorder concerns and directed the Mamataled faction to hold the event elsewhereHer party faction has resisted relocation to avoid conceding symbolic ground but legal limits on participants and police conditions make her putting up mass show difficultMeanwhile Congress leaders insist the 1993 march was organised under the banner of its youth wing and want to reclaim the narrative inviting Mamata Banerjee to its Shahid Minar event while asking her to admit leaving Congress was a mistake is both an olive branch and a political trapWith the Trinamool fractured Congress hopes a public atonement would delegitimise Mamatas break and attract disillusioned voters the demand is symbolic leverage more than sincere reconciliationIncidentally not long ago there was an anticipation floating around in political corridors on the return to Congress of prominent leaders who had severed their connections earlierThis included the name of Mamata BanerjeeThe speculations were later shot downIn recent video messages on Facebook Mamata Banerjee has rather announced a fightback and possible bouncebackIn 19971998 Mamata Banerjee converted grassroots anger into a new party because she was the clear focal point of dissent inside Congress who established herself as the principal face against the Left FrontToday the septuagenarian leader faces organisational erosion defections of close confidantes legal and administrative constraints a changed public mood and different electoral landscapeHer political assets lay in fearless leadership disruptions and unpredictability personal charisma a loyal core of grassroots workers and the symbolic ownership of July 21Her comeback would require rebuilding organisational depth a clear political narrative beyond nostalgia and credible local leaders that appear a taller order nowWhether she can turn July 21 into a disciplined emotive spectacle and avoid further defections is yet to be seenIt is evident that all blocs are under intense scrutiny and the events will face comparisonThe clear and present considerations include turnout numbers considering police enforcement of court limits and further defectionsJuly 21 will thus be a referendum on symbolic ownership as much as organisational muscleMamata Banerjee can still salvage political relevance if she converts symbolism into disciplined mobilisation and new local leadership But repeating the sweeping triumph of her heydays is unlikely without structural renewal and a coherent postdefeat strategyIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/political-compulsions-behind-july-21-martyrs-day-ownership-race-among-bengal-oppn-blocs-larger-challenge-for-mamata-693299.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 11:39:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/dream-of-india-receiving-its-first-hydrogen-train-about-to-come-true-pm-modi-on-historic-launch-693300.html New Delhi July 17 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that India is set to achieve a major milestone in sustainable transportation with the launch of the countrys first hydrogenpowered train calling it a significant step towards a selfreliant India and sustainable developmentnbspSharing his message on X Prime Minister Modi said Today the dream of India receiving its first hydrogen train is about to come true This is a very significant day in the direction of selfreliant India and sustainable development I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone associated with thisThe Prime Minister also shared a Sanskrit quote highlighting the importance of dedication and determination while pursuing major goals He wrote that Whether a task is great or small whatever a person wishes to accomplish should be carried out with complete dedication and renewed enthusiasm this is the one quality that ought to be learned from a lion translated from SanskritThe launch of the hydrogenpowered train marks a major advancement in Indias efforts to adopt cleaner energy solutions in the transport sector The project reflects the countrys focus on technological innovation selfreliance and environmentally sustainable infrastructurePrime Minister Modi will flag off Indias first hydrogenpowered train from Jind Haryana marking Indias entry into a select group of nations exploring hydrogen technology for cleaner rail transportationThe hydrogen train which will operate between Jind and Sonipat is considered a major achievement for Indian Railways as it reflects the national transporters commitment to innovation energy efficiency and sustainable mobility The initiative also supports Indias clean energy ambitions and its longterm goal of achieving netzero carbon emissionsThe introduction of the hydrogenpowered train places India among a limited group of countries including Germany Japan China and the United States that are exploring hydrogenbased rail transportation Since the technology is still at a developing stage only a small number of nations are currently operating or testing hydrogenpowered rail systems according to an official statementThe JindSonipat route has been selected for the pilot operation of the hydrogen train with the project expected to demonstrate the potential of hydrogen as an alternative clean fuel for future railway networksIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/dream-of-india-receiving-its-first-hydrogen-train-about-to-come-true-pm-modi-on-historic-launch-693300.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 11:46:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-govt-confirms-two-devotee-deaths-denies-stampede-at-puri-rath-yatra-693301.html Bhubaneswar July 17 IANS The Odisha government has confirmed the deaths of two devotees but denied reports of any stampedelike incident during the annual Rath Yatra festival which commenced in the holy coastal town of Puri with the participation of lakhs of pilgrims from across the state the country and abroadAs per an official statement issued by the Chief Ministers Office CMO the world famous Ratha Yatra 2026 of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath Mahaprabhu Balabhadra Devi Subhadra and Chakraraj Sudarshana was celebrated on Thursday in Puri with immense religious fervour devotion and exemplary administrative coordinationIt also added that despite persistent rainfall and inclement weather conditions throughout the day the festival witnessed an estimated eight to nine lakh devotees from across Odisha the country and abroad reflecting the unparalleled faith of devotees in the deitiesAll the sacred rituals connected with the festival including the pulling of the three chariots were conducted smoothly and completed as planned Govardhan Peethadheeshwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya also came to the chariots and offered prayers The state government made comprehensive and multilayered arrangements for the successful conduct of the festival the CMO said in the statementThe state government also informed that extensive planning was undertaken well in advance involving all stakeholder departments including Police Health Fire Services Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force ODRAF National Disaster Response Force NDRF Transport Municipal Administration Public Health Engineering Energy and other line departmentsRoundtheclock monitoring deployment of adequate security personnel extensive CCTV coverage public announcement systems traffic regulation sanitation measures drinking water facilities emergency response teams and medical infrastructure ensured that devotees could participate in the festival safely and convenientlyThe Odisha government claimed that considering the unprecedented gathering of devotees and the continuous rainfall instances of fatigue dehydration suffocation and minor healthrelated discomfort were reported during the course of the dayDuring the course of the festival seven persons felt unwell and were immediately evacuated by the deployed personnel and shifted to the hospital without delay Among them one male devotee aged above 60 years unfortunately succumbed and the exact cause of death is being ascertained by the concerned authorities the state government saidAs per the CMO in a separate and an unrelated incident a male devotee aged above 35 years suffered a cardiac arrest and despite immediate medical intervention unfortunately passed awayBesides many devotees became unwell due to incessant raininduced illness who were given medical treatment at hospital and were discharged after proper medical treatmentThe overall conduct of the festival remained peaceful orderly and well managed There was no incident of stampede or any systemic breakdown of crowd management the government clarifiedThe coordinated efforts of the administration security agencies servitors and volunteers ensured uninterrupted movement of devoteesThe situation remained normal throughout the festival with all essential services functioning effectivelyChief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the servitors and thanked the lakhs of devotees for their patience discipline and cooperation which greatly contributed to the peaceful and successful celebration of the festivalThe Chief Minister reaffirmed the state governments unwavering commitment to ensuring that every devotee experiences the sacred festival with safety dignity and convenience through continuous improvement in infrastructure public services and administrative preparednessIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/odisha-govt-confirms-two-devotee-deaths-denies-stampede-at-puri-rath-yatra-693301.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 11:59:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/campaign-has-just-begun-hm-amit-shah-after-planting-125-trees-in-gandhinagar-693302.html Ahmedabad July 17 IANS Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Thursday said the Gandhinagar Lok Sabhas tree plantation initiative has not ended with the planting of 125 crore saplings but has instead entered its most important phase as he called for sustained efforts to ensure every sapling survives and grows into a mature treeShah made the remarks while chairing a review meeting of coordinators of the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha Green Lok Sabha campaign in AhmedabadChief Minister Bhupendra Patel Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot and elected representatives and BJP officebearers from the Gandhinagar parliamentary constituency were present at the meetingThe review followed the recent mass plantation campaign inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modis Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiativeThe campaign aimed at transforming the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency into a greener region was part of a plantation drive that organisers said earned a place in the Guinness World RecordsAddressing campaign coordinators Shah thanked party workers organisations and citizens for helping achieve the target of planting 125 crore trees but stressed that the focus must now shift to their longterm survivalI sincerely thank everyone who helped take the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha Hariali Lok Sabha campaign to every household and fulfilled the resolve of planting trees However the campaign has not ended with the planting of 125 crore trees it has only just begun Shah saidHe said the saplings must now be nurtured so that over the next 50 to 100 years they grow into large trees capable of providing shade clean air and helping to reduce temperaturesDuring the meeting Shah reviewed the plantation work carried out so far and emphasised the need for proper care and maintenance of every sapling to ensure the highest possible survival rateHe said systematic efforts were required so that all the planted saplings grow into fully developed treesAppealing to campaign workers Shah said They should view the responsibility of nurturing the trees not as a political programme but as a religious and social dutyReferring to a verse from the Matsya Purana Shah said planting and nurturing a tree was considered a highly virtuous act Society followed such teachings by preserving and growing trees challenges such as global warming might not have emerged in their present form he saidShah also noted his party was not merely an organisation focused on elections but one engaged in public service adding that ensuring the successful growth of the newly planted trees would be among its most meaningful service activitiesChief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the plantation campaign had been carried out in the spirit envisioned by Shah and urged participants to maintain the same commitment during the next phaseThe work of planting trees has been completed Now we must all fulfil our responsibility of nurturing them and helping them grow Patel saidHe added that everyone should take inspiration from Shah and remain determined to ensure the saplings are properly cared for Today we must assure Amit Shah that we will discharge the responsibility of nurturing these trees with 100 per cent commitment he saidPatel also said tree plantation was essential not only for human beings but for all living beings and urged people to remain committed to protecting the environment for future generationsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/campaign-has-just-begun-hm-amit-shah-after-planting-125-trees-in-gandhinagar-693302.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-flags-off-indias-first-hydrogen-train-launches-development-projects-of-rs-14-700-crore-from-jind-693303.html Jind Haryana July 17 IANS Indian Railways on Friday added another feather to its cap in clean mobility with Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagging off Indias first hydrogen fuel cell trainset from here a train that generates its own electricity onboard using hydrogen the cleanest fuel knownnbspThe 10coach train running between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana will cover 90 km in just two hours a landmark in the green mobility journeyThe train is powered by a 3200 HP propulsion system one of the most powerful hydrogenpowered trainsets in operation and emits only water vapourBy leveraging Indias own technology and handling everything from design to assembly domestically India joins the ranks of countries operating hydrogen railwaysSimultaneously PM Modi dedicated to the nation and laid the foundation stones of the National Highway project of over Rs 12470 crore in HaryanaThe milestone of a hydrogenpowered train marked the latest chapter in the evolution of how the Railways has powered its trains reflecting Indias broader journey from coal and steam to cleaner more sustainable sources of energyOver the past 12 years rapid electrification has significantly reduced dependence on imported diesel paving the way for the next leap in clean rail mobilityFrom Jind the Prime Minister dedicated to the nation the 15792kmlong fourlane fully accesscontrolled DelhiAmritsarKatra Expressway Packages 1 to 5 developed at a cost of around Rs 9680 croreThe Greenfield corridor forms part of the 667 km DelhiAmritsarKatra Expressway that will reduce travel time between Delhi and Katra from about 14 hours to nearly six hours while cutting the DelhiAmritsar journey from about eight hours to four hoursThe project is expected to significantly decongest NH44 GT Road boost pilgrim and tourist traffic to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and catalyse industrial and logistics development along the corridorThe Prime Minister also dedicated the 3381kmlong fourlane partially accesscontrolled AmbalaKala Amb Highway on NH7 and NH344The highway will strengthen connectivity between the Ambala urban agglomeration and the Kala Amb industrial belt improving road links between Haryana and Himachal Pradesh facilitating tourist movement to hill regions and reducing logistics costs for industries in Kala AmbAnother major project dedicated was the 4060kmlong JindGohana Greenfield Highway on NH352AThe new highway will reduce travel time between Jind and Gohana from about two hours to just 40 minutes benefiting commuters freight transport and the agriculturally significant JindGohana region while improving connectivity to Rohtak Panipat and the DelhiNational Capital Region NCRThe Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for the 2427kmlong HansiBarwala Brownfield Highway Project which will upgrade the existing carriageway to a 24lane configuration with paved shouldersPM Modi dedicated the Elevated Railway Track in Kurukshetra a major urban infrastructure project that will eliminate longstanding traffic congestion at railway crossings in the city The project will ensure smoother vehicular movement improve road safety and enhance the operational efficiency of both rail and road transport systemsPM Modi also dedicated major medical institutions to the nation Pandit Neki Ram Sharma Government Medical College Bhiwani Maharishi Chyawan Medical College and Rao Tula Ram Hospital in Koriawas in NarnaulThese institutions will expand access to quality medical education in Haryana increase the number of MBBS seats improve the availability of specialist healthcare professionals and enable people to access better medical services closer to their homes thereby strengthening the states healthcare ecosystemFurther enriching the regions cultural infrastructure the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of the Sikh Museum in Kurukshetra The museum will showcase the history of Sikhism the teachings of the Sikh Gurus their courage sacrifices and the invaluable contribution of the Sikh community to Indias civilisation and culture through the use of modern technologyIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pm-modi-flags-off-indias-first-hydrogen-train-launches-development-projects-of-rs-14-700-crore-from-jind-693303.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:19:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cjp-protest-i-will-stay-alive-till-july-20-at-any-cost-says-wangchuk-693325.html New Delhi Jul 17 Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Friday asserted that he would stay alive till July 20 at any cost even as his indefinite hunger strike entered its 20th day amid a warning from doctors that his prolonged fast has reached a critical stage As the Cockroach Janta Partys CJP agitation at Jantar Mantar against alleged examination irregularities entered its 28th day on Friday Congress leader Pawan Khera became the latest political leader to visit Wangchuk and other protesters to express his solidarityAddressing supporters at the protest site Wangchuk acknowledged his weakening physical condition but said his resolve remained unshakennbspI am weak from the outside but very strong inside I am sure all of you are strong from the inside and outside too We need this energy for July 20 when we will take out a peaceful march to Parliament We will go together and present our plea in the temple of democracy he saidnbspI will stay alive till July 20 at any cost If you dont come and July 20 is not successful I will come back as a ghost he said in a lighter vein drawing cheers from the gatheringWangchuk lost another 350 grams over the last 24 hours taking his cumulative weight loss to about 95 kgnbspnbspAccording to the health bulletin issued by the medical team attending to him Wangchuk now weighs 5655 kg His blood pressure was recorded at 10868 mm Hg blood sugar at 80 mgdL pulse rate at 72 beats per minute and oxygen saturation at 96 per cent Doctors said he showed signs of mild dehydration but remained mentally alertOn Thursday doctors had warned that his condition had entered a critical stage due to the prolonged fast and that the next phase could be alarming with the possibility of organ damage if the hunger strike continuednbspWangchuk however had refused to call off the fast saying that ending it without any response from the government would send a wrong message He maintained that the focus should now be on making the July 20 Parliament march a successnbspThe issue has also reached the Delhi High Court which directed authorities to monitor Wangchuks health daily and provide medical assistance if his condition deterioratesThe health of others on hunger strike has deteriorated as well The CPIML Liberationaffiliated All India Students Association AISA said the condition of its activists Neha Manish and Aameen who have also been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar had reached severe stagesnbspAccording to the organisation Aameen is at risk of hypovolemic shock due to dehydration Nehas blood sugar level has dropped to a dangerous 49 mgdL and Manish has lost more than 10 per cent of his body weight AISA said the three students would continue the fast in solidarity with Wangchuk despite their worsening conditionnbspPolitical support for the CJPs agitation continued to grow with Congress leader Pawan Khera visiting Wangchuk and other protesters at Jantar Mantar on FridaynbspKheras visit came a day after Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav met the hunger strikers and urged the Centre to initiate dialogue and after Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal Trinamool Congress chairperson Mamata Banerjee Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav reached out to express concern over Wangchuks health and extend support to the proposed Parliament marchOver the last week the agitation has also drawn support from actor Prakash Raj former Delhi chief minister Atishi TMC MPs Mahua Moitra and Sagarika Ghose CPIM MP Amra Ram veteran CPIM leader Subhashini Ali former Kerala ministers K K Shailaja Thomas Isaac K N Balagopal and P Rajeev Tripura Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury Samajwadi Party MPs Pushpendra Saroj and Priya Saroj Shiv Sena UBT MP Arvind Sawant NCP MLA Rohit Pawar and Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Gurnam Singh CharuninbspA group of eminent citizens including writer Arundhati Roy actors Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah economist Jayati Ghosh and several academics have also backed the protesters demands while appealing to Wangchuk to end his fastnbspThe CJP has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Rs 1 crore compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide over alleged examination irregularities The outfit has called for a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20 coinciding with the opening day of the monsoon SessionnbspThe CJP protest began on June 20 while Wangchuk joined the agitation on June 28 and has remained on an indefinite hunger strike ever sinceAgencies https://dailyworld.in/national/cjp-protest-i-will-stay-alive-till-july-20-at-any-cost-says-wangchuk-693325.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-declines-immediate-release-of-mahaprabhu-jagannath-asks-makers-to-wait-till-rath-yatra-ends-693330.html New Delhi July 17 IANS The Supreme Court on Friday declined to permit the release of the animated film Mahaprabhu Jagannath on its scheduled release date and directed the producers to postpone its release till after the conclusion of the annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri on July 27nbspnbspA Bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan refused to stay the Odisha High Courts order observing that the Rath Yatra had commenced on Thursday and would continue till July 27During the Rath Yatra dont do it release After the Rath Yatra you can release it the Justice Nagarathnaled Bench observed while hearing the plea filed by the makers seeking permission to release the film on FridayPermitting the petitioners to release the film after July 27 the apex court disposed of the pleaThe makers had moved the Supreme Court challenging the Odisha High Courts decision restraining the release of the animated film on the ground that it did not conform to the Skanda PuranaSenior advocate Devadatt Kamath appearing for the producers before the apex court had submitted that the film is an animated feature made for children and that the ban had caused crores of rupees in losses to the producersEarlier the makers had maintained that Mahaprabhu Jagannath was an extension of their animated series Jay Jagannath created with utmost honesty sincerity and devotion towards Lord Jagannath and his devoteesThey had also stated that the film had received a U certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification CBFC in Hindi Odia and Telugu and expressed hope that audiences would be allowed to watch the film and decide for themselvesThe film produced by Durga Prasad Dalai under the banner of Ele Animations Pvt Ltd was originally slated for a panIndia release on over 300 screens in Hindi Odia and TeluguHelmed by Shripad Warkhedkar the animated feature is positioned as a family entertainer based on the life and teachings of Lord Jagannath and follows the success of the television animated series Jay JagannathIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-declines-immediate-release-of-mahaprabhu-jagannath-asks-makers-to-wait-till-rath-yatra-ends-693330.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/chandigarh-not-just-a-city-but-development-model-says-pm-modi-after-launching-rs-4-700-crore-projects-693333.html Chandigarh July 17 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described Chandigarh not just as a city but as a model of development in healthcare education and connectivitynbspChandigarh is known for its planned development better lifestyle and ease of living Chandigarh is also recognised for its excellent healthcare facilities Above all it is blessed by Maa Chandi That is why the development of Chandigarh has always been a priority for the NDA government PM Modi said after inaugurating and laying the foundation stone for development projects of Rs 4700 crorenbspHighlighting the major reforms in the past 12 years by the BJPled NDA government PM Modi told the gathering We replaced the colonialera penal laws with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita The implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita also began in Chandigarh Over the past few years several projects including the Integrated Command and Control Centre smart traffic management smart parking and digital governance initiatives have been undertaken to make Chandigarh a hightech city More than Rs 2500 crore has been spent under this mission Today several new development projects related to healthcare education and infrastructure are also being launched here I congratulate the people of Chandigarh on these initiativesThe Prime Minister said the healthcare education and road infrastructure projects in and around Chandigarh will also improve the ease of living for residents of Punjab Haryana Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir because it connects the entire regionnbspRecalling his regular visits to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research PGI here PM Modi said when he stayed in the city he used to visit the PGI as patients from Jammu and Kashmir Punjab Himachal Pradesh and Haryana frequently came here for treatment I remember visiting PGI Chandigarh in 2015 to attend its convocation ceremony I am delighted that today even though virtually I have the opportunity to reconnect with many of my old colleagues there he saidnbspOver the past decade the PGI has significantly expanded its capabilities I commend the management of the PGI its professors and its young doctors for their outstanding work and extend my best wishes to them he saidPM Modi said that today the number of medical colleges in the country has nearly doubled and there has been a record increase in MBBS and postgraduate medical seatsnbspHe laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects The inaugurated projects were the advanced neuroscience centre and mother and child centre at the PGIMER a multipurpose auditorium at Panjab Universitys South Campus in Sector 25 and road infrastructure projects in the tricity region comprising Chandigarh Panchkula and MohalinbspBefore reaching here PM Modi launched the countrys first 10coach hydrogenpowered train named NaMo Green Rail and several projects worth Rs 14700 crore strengthening connectivity healthcare and cultural heritage from Haryanas JindAccompanying Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw PM virtually inaugurated PGIs Advanced Mother and Child Centre that has been designed to provide comprehensive tertiary healthcare services for highrisk pregnancies critically ill newborns and children requiring specialised treatmentnbspEquipped with 300 beds and stateoftheart medical facilities the centre will significantly strengthen maternal and child healthcare services and benefit thousands of families across the regionnbspThe Advanced Neurosciences Centre will provide integrated services in neurology neurosurgery neurocritical care and advanced diagnostic facilities under one roof It will ensure timely and worldclass treatment for patients suffering from complex neurological disorders while strengthening medical research education and training in neurosciencesThe Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of a 150bed stateoftheart Critical Care Block under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission PMABHIM in PGInbspThe facility will significantly enhance emergency preparedness intensive care services and disaster response capabilities while strengthening the overall healthcare infrastructure of the regionnbspPM Modi also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of several infrastructure projects pertaining to educational institutions in ChandigarhThese include the inauguration of Kurukshetra Boys Hostel and Mess at Punjab Engineering College the Hostel Block in the Government College in Sector 46 and the foundation stone of Research Scholars Hostel in Punjab Engineering CollegenbspThese facilities will strengthen academic infrastructure improve residential facilities for students and researchers and create a better environment for higher educationThe Prime Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of major road infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity in the regionnbspHe inaugurated the sixlane Greenfield Highway from IT City to Kurali in Mohali district an important infrastructure project for the region The highway will reduce travel time between Mohali Kharar and Kurali while providing improved connectivity for Punjab Haryana Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and KashmirnbspThe Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for the PR7 Spur of the AmbalaChandigarh Greenfield Highway NH205A a 103km Greenfield corridor that will enable longdistance traffic to bypass the urban areas of Zirakpur and connect the Zirakpur Bypass directly to Aerocity on the outskirts of ChandigarhIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/chandigarh-not-just-a-city-but-development-model-says-pm-modi-after-launching-rs-4-700-crore-projects-693333.html Fri, 17 Jul 2026 16:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-hikes-windfall-duty-on-diesel-atf-exports-693197.html New Delhi July 16 IANS The Centre has raised windfall taxes on exports of diesel and aviation turbine fuel ATF while lowering the levy on petrol exports as surging global oil prices driven by the escalating USIran conflict boosted refining margins with the revised rates taking effect from ThursdaynbspAccording to a Finance Ministry notification the export duty on diesel has been increased to Rs 155 per litre from Rs 85 per litre while the levy on aviation turbine fuel has been raised to Rs 145 per litre from Rs 75 per litreAt the same time the government has reduced the export duty on petrol to Rs 25 per litre from Rs 4 per litreThe revised rates came into effect from July 16 according to the notificationThe latest revision comes amid a sharp rise in global crude oil prices following an escalation in hostilities between the United States and IranOil prices climbed on Wednesday before easing slightly after US President Donald Trump reimposed a naval blockade on all Iranian ports prompting Iran to launch retaliatory strikes on US infrastructure in the regionEarlier this month the government had revised the windfall tax on exports of petroleum products by raising the levy on petrol while reducing the duties on diesel and aviation turbine fuelThe Special Additional Excise Duty SAED on petrol exports was increased to Rs 4 per litre from Rs 15 per litre At the same time the export duty on diesel was reduced to Rs 85 per litre from Rs 14 per litre while the levy on ATF exports was cut to Rs 75 per litre from Rs 125 per litreThe government reviews windfall taxes on domestically produced crude oil and exports of petroleum products at regular intervals to align the levies with changes in international crude prices and refining marginsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/govt-hikes-windfall-duty-on-diesel-atf-exports-693197.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:02:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/raj-thackeray-slams-centre-over-sonam-wangchuks-fast-seeks-action-on-neet-crisis-693198.html Mumbai July 16 IANS Maharashtra Navnirman Sena MNS chief Raj Thackeray on Thursday targeted the BJPled central government over noted educationist and climate activist Sonam Wangchuks fastuntodeath alleging that the Centre was ignoring a legitimate public movement while prioritising political interestsnbspAs Wangchuks indefinite hunger strike entered its 19th day Thackeray expressed concern over his deteriorating health and accused the government of undermining democratic dissentnbspIn a post on X Thackeray pulled no punches regarding the central administrations apathy toward public accountability drawing a sharp parallel to recent structural controversiesIt feels utterly awful to say that the government has decided to sacrifice Sonam Wangchuk and by extension a movement that represents a voice for this country he stated adding When a government can watch silently as Shri Rams treasury is being looted what difference will citizens movements make to themHe further alleged that the democratic guardrails have been compromised asserting that standard public institutions have been brought entirely under central control to manage elections at astronomical costsThackeray slammed the mainstream media for failing to question the source of these massive political funds accusing major outlets of functioning under invisible bosses to defame dissenting voices while independent media operate under a constant sword of DamoclesReflecting on the BJPs shifting relationship with the Ladakhi activist Thackeray highlighted a timeline of convenience He noted that in 2018 the ruling party highly regarded Wangchuk inviting him to the ReInvest Conference to leverage his expertise on unconventional energy One good thing about the BJP is that a person remains dear to them only as long as it suits their convenience Thackeray remarkedHe pointed out that while Wangchuk initially welcomed the Union Territory status for Ladakh he quickly realized the governments underlying intentions Despite repeated assurances the Center failed to act on core tribal and regional requirements including granting full statehood creating two Lok Sabha constituencies and safeguarding local land rightsTurning to the core catalyst of the current agitation Thackeray strongly defended Wangchuks current demand for structural transparency in competitive exams and the immediate sacking of the Union Education MinisterHe cited a continuous chain of examination scams under the current regime ranging from the historic Vyapam scam in Madhya Pradesh to the recent leaks in national eligibility tests and teacher recruitment papersThis brazenness he argued stems from unlimited power and total grip over state machinery which the BJP seeks to parade as the silent consent of the votersThackeray concluded with a direct appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to view the student crisis beyond party lines This isnt a political issue This is a social one Thackeray emphasizedLakhs of students who took the NEET exam and their parents have gone through such agony Among them are supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party its officebearers and its workers all of whom have suffered too Viewing this movement through a political lens is fundamentally a sign of the central governments narrowmindedness he notedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/raj-thackeray-slams-centre-over-sonam-wangchuks-fast-seeks-action-on-neet-crisis-693198.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-raids-13-locations-in-up-in-terror-funding-infiltration-network-probe-693199.html Lucknow July 16 IANS The Directorate of Enforcement ED on Thursday carried out search operations at 13 locations across Uttar Pradesh under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act PMLA 2002 as part of its ongoing investigation into an alleged terror funding and illegal infiltration network officials saidThe searches were conducted in connection with Enforcement Case Information Report ECIR No ECIRLKZO142024 which pertains to an alleged network involved in terror financing and facilitating infiltration into the countryAccording to officials the money laundering investigation stems from an FIR registered by the Uttar Pradesh AntiTerrorism Squad ATSnbspThe FIR relates to an organised syndicate allegedly engaged in helping Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals illegally enter India arranging forged Indian identity documents for them and facilitating their settlement and rehabilitation in different parts of the country officials statedOfficials said the predicate investigation has uncovered what appears to be an extensive financial network involving certain charitable trusts and other entities that allegedly received substantial foreign contributions Investigators suspect that these funds were diverted through multiple bank accounts mule accounts and layered financial transactions to support and facilitate the alleged illegal activitiesThe investigation has further indicated that the network allegedly relied on cash withdrawals and numerous smallvalue financial transfers routed to suspected beneficiaries in an effort to avoid detection and conceal the movement of fundsOfficials said the searches were conducted as part of the ongoing probe to gather evidence and trace the flow of money linked to the alleged networknbspThe authorities said that an investigation is currently underwayFurther details are awaitedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/ed-raids-13-locations-in-up-in-terror-funding-infiltration-network-probe-693199.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:12:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/world-famous-puri-rath-yatra-gets-underway-with-grand-pahandi-bije-ritual-693200.html Bhubaneswar July 16 IANS The worldfamous annual Rath Yatra festival began in the holy coastal town of Puri in Odisha on Thursday with the commencement of the Pahandi Bije ritual of Lord Jagannath his elder brother Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra ahead of the scheduled timenbspThe holy siblings along with other deities during the Pahandi Bije ritual are being escorted out from the 12thcentury Shree Jagannath Temple to their respective decorated chariots in a grand ceremonial procession with the enthralling and divine sound of traditional musical instruments like ghanta gong kahali trumpet and telingi baja etcThe priests chanting sacred Vedic hymns and traditional Odissi artists with their enthralling dance performances welcomed the deities on their nineday sojourn for the Gundicha Temple believed to be their birthplaceAs per the tradition the celestial weapon of Lord Krishna Chakraraj Sudarshan is first brought and placed on the chariot of Goddess Subhadra followed by Lord Balabhadra Devi Subhadra and finally Lord Jagannath in Dhadi Pahandi in which the deities move simultaneously in a row one after the other in close successionFollowing the completion of the Pahandi ritual Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati along with his disciples offers puja to the holy siblings on the chariots Later Puri King Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singha Deb the first servitor of the Lord Jagannath offers prayers to the deities and conducts the ceremonial sweeping of the chariots with a golden broomAfter this service offered by the Puri King the chariots are pulled by devotees to the Gundicha temple the birthplace and garden house of Lord Jagannath around 3 km away from the main templeLakhs of devotees on Thursday thronged the holy city of Puri to have a glimpse of Lord Jagannath elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra and pull their chariots Nandighosha Taladhwaja and Darpadalana respectively The devotees filled with pure devotion are chanting the holy names of Jai Jagannath Hari Bol and dancing in ecstasyThe annual chariot festival is observed on Dwitiya Tithi the second day of the bright fortnight Shukla Paksha of the Ashadha month of the Hindu Almanack a time considered spiritually auspicious due to the increasing brightness of the moonThe district administration police and other departments have made elaborate arrangements in the city to ensure a smooth conduct of the Rath Yatra this year More than 13000 police personnel along with an adequate number of Central Armed Police Forces CAPF have been deployed for security arrangements during the festivalThe Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy will also remain on alert to check any illegal activities through the coastal route On the other hand as many as 19 senior IPS officers have been assigned the duty to supervise the overall security arrangementsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/world-famous-puri-rath-yatra-gets-underway-with-grand-pahandi-bije-ritual-693200.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:18:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-cabinet-set-to-approve-first-tvk-govts-budget-today-693201.html Chennai July 16 IANS The Tamil Nadu Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay will meet on Thursday to approve the State Budget for 202627 clearing the way for its presentation in the Legislative Assembly during the first week of AugustnbspnbspThe meeting scheduled at the Secretariat is expected to finalise the governments first fullfledged Budget since the TVKled administration assumed office earlier this yearnbspThe Budget is expected to reflect the new governments governance priorities while outlining its economic roadmap for the current financial yearnbspAs this will be the maiden Budget of the TVK government it is likely to include several welfare measures development initiatives and policy announcements aimed at delivering on the partys election promisesnbspOver the past few weeks Chief Minister Vijay has held a series of meetings with ministers senior officials and department secretaries to review Budget proposals prepared by various departmentsnbspThe consultations focused on identifying priority sectors evaluating new schemes and finalising key allocations before the Budget document is placed before the Cabinet for approvalnbspDuring the meeting the Cabinet is expected to discuss the major features of both the State Budget and the Agriculture Budget Ministers are likely to deliberate on the important proposals to be incorporated in both documents before giving their formal approvalnbspThe Agriculture Budget is expected to contain measures to strengthen the farming sector through increased investment in irrigation agricultural infrastructure crop productivity and farmer welfarenbspGovernment sources indicated that the Budget is likely to contain a number of peoplecentric announcements covering sectors such as education healthcare employment social welfare infrastructure and urban developmentnbspSeveral new initiatives aimed at improving public services and accelerating economic growth are also expected to be unveilednbspApart from Budgetrelated discussions the Cabinet is also expected to consider proposals for approving new industrial investment projects in different parts of Tamil Nadu These projects are expected to boost manufacturing create employment opportunities and attract fresh investments into the statenbspFollowing the Cabinets approval the Finance Department will complete the final procedural formalities before the Budget is presented in the AssemblynbspThe first Budget of the TVK government is expected to set the tone for the administrations policy direction and longterm development strategy while outlining its priorities for the year aheadnbspIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-cabinet-set-to-approve-first-tvk-govts-budget-today-693201.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:25:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-arrests-kapl-managing-director-anurag-danayak-in-rs-15-lakh-bribery-case-693207.html BengaluruNew Delhi July 16 IANS The Central Bureau of Investigation CBI on Thursday arrested Anurag Danayak Managing Director of Karnataka Antibiotics and Pharmaceuticals Limited KAPL a Central Public Sector Enterprise in connection with an alleged bribery case involving the renewal of a service agreement and allotment of additional institutionsnbspAccording to the CBI Danayak was caught redhanded in a trap operation conducted in Noida on July 15 while allegedly accepting Rs 5 lakh as part payment of a total bribe demand of Rs 15 lakhThe agency said the accused had demanded an undue advantage from a Bhopalbased firm which serves as an authorised service agent of KAPL and supplies medicines to government institutions across Madhya PradeshInvestigators alleged that the bribe was sought in exchange for approving the firms Service Agent Agreement and processing its application seeking assignment of additional institutions Both requests were reportedly pending renewal for the current financial year The CBI further alleged that the Managing Director had also sought a share of the commission earned by the firm from medicine sales during the yearFollowing the arrest the CBI conducted searches at Danayaks residential and office premises in Bengaluru Noida and JabalpurDuring the searches officials seized approximately Rs 75 lakh in cash and foreign currency valued at around Rs 4 lakh from his residence in Noida and office chamber in Bengaluru The agency also recovered 697 grams of gold jewellery and coins estimated to be worth nearly Rs 86 lakh besides documents relating to a residential flat owned by the accusedKarnataka Antibiotics and Pharmaceuticals Limited is a Bengaluruheadquartered public sector undertaking engaged in the manufacture and supply of pharmaceutical products across the countryThe arrested official is expected to be produced before the competent court The CBI said the investigation is continuing to ascertain whether any other individuals were involved in the alleged bribery networkThe case marks one of the significant anticorruption actions involving a senior executive of a Central Public Sector Enterprise in recent monthsIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-arrests-kapl-managing-director-anurag-danayak-in-rs-15-lakh-bribery-case-693207.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 13:05:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-credit-to-agriculture-sector-jumps-4-fold-to-rs-3250-lakh-crore-in-last-11-years-693208.html New Delhi July 16 IANS Indias ground level credit disbursed to the agriculture sector has surged to Rs 3250 lakh crore for FY 202526 which marks a more than fourfold jump from Rs 8 lakh crore in FY 201415 according to an official factsheet released on ThursdaynbspThe rural credit ecosystem has expanded by a robust 13 per cent every year during FY201415 to FY202324 To enhance ground level credit GLC in agriculture the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development NABARD provides refinance support to banks to supplement their resources for shortterm and longterm lending to agriculture and allied sectors the factsheet statesThe growing reach of formal rural finance is reflected in NABARDs Rural Economic Conditions and Sentiments Survey May 2026 About 772 per cent of rural households reported higher consumption levels reflecting rising purchasing power and sustained demand Access to formal credit has also expanded significantly Around 51 per cent of households relying exclusively on formal sources and over 27 per cent accessing both institutional and noninstitutional channelsIn rural areas there were 41464 scheduled commercial bank branches in 2014 This increased by over 35 per cent to 56193 rural branches by July 2025 playing a vital role in rural credit delivery There are also regional rural banks RRBs operating across States and Union Territories having a branch network of over 22000 in 700 districtsBesides cooperative banks and primary agricultural credit societies have played an important role in expanding institutional credit by promoting banking habits among the poor in remote areas As per RBI and NABARD the cooperative network includes 1458 Urban Cooperative Banks 34 State Cooperative Banks and 352 District Central Cooperative BanksThe Governments policy framework for rural credit comprises various measures to ensure uninterrupted credit flow for rural development initiatives such as Priority Sector Lending PSL for the agriculture being part of a mandatory framework set by the RBI The guidelines apply to all banks which are required to allocate at least 18 per cent of their Adjusted Net Bank Credit or Credit Equivalent of OffBalance Sheet Exposures whichever is higher for the agriculture sectorThere is also a focus on poverty alleviation programmes targeting the poor such as DAYNRLM It organises rural poor households into SHGs and supports them in increasing incomes and improving their quality of lifeThe programme is being implemented across the country As of July 10 2026 over 1983 lakh SHGs are operational with loan disbursement of Rs 1328 lakhcrore recorded since inceptionAround 50548 Bank Sakhis have been deployed supporting SHGs in accessing bank credit of over Rs 1218 lakh crore since 201314 as on February 2026Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana PMJDY also plays a key role in the development of marginalised communities As on June 24 2026 over 5863 crore JanDhan accounts have been opened with deposits exceeding Rs 3 lakh crore Of these 3268 crore accounts 557 per cent belong to women and 4562 crore accounts 778 per cent are in rural and semiurban areasIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/indias-credit-to-agriculture-sector-jumps-4-fold-to-rs-3250-lakh-crore-in-last-11-years-693208.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:14:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-voices-concern-over-cbses-third-language-policy-from-class-9-onwards-693211.html New Delhi Jul 16 The Supreme Court on Thursday voiced concern over the introduction of a third language in Class 9 under the CBSE curriculum observing it would increase the stress level of students and suggesting it be introduced in Class 5 or Class 6 so that students can cope with itnbspA bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and R Mahadevan orally asked the Centre to not introduce a third language in Class 9nbspUnion of India please dont have a third language from Class 9 level It would unnecessarily increase the stress level of students If you want to introduce a new language then please do it at Class 5 or Class 6 level but not at Class 9 level Class nine is full of stress it starts from Class 8 onwards Justice Nagarathna told the counsel appearing for the Centre and asked her to convey the feeling of the court to the governmentThe remarks were made during the hearing of the Tamil Nadu governments plea against a Madras High Court directive to facilitate the establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas JNVs in every district of the StatenbspThe Tamil Nadu government has consistently opposed the setting up of JNVs over concerns with regard to the threelanguage policy curriculum followed by the schoolsnbspnbspThe bench was not directly dealing with the issue of new policy of CBSE but the court made observations on the timing of introduction of third language in schoolsnbspAnother apex court bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant is already examining issues with regard to challenge to the new policy of the CBSE and recently refused to stay the notificationnbspDuring the hearing the Tamil Nadu government counsel submitted that the States objection relates to the threelanguage policynbspnbspJustice Nagarathna observed that the policy did not mandate Hindi as the third languagenbspnbspThe State language has to be taught English has to be taught and any third language It doesnt say Hindi she remarkednbspnbspAdvocate G Priyadarshini appearing for respondent NGO Kumari Maha Sabha which was the petitioner before the high court submitted that the National Education Policy specifically provides that no language should be imposed on any StatenbspJustice Nagarathna then asked the State You dont want Hindi but if its Sanskrit what is the issuenbspnbspCounsel for the State replied that the thirdlanguage under curriculum becomes compulsory only from Class 9nbspnbspReacting to this Justice Nagarathna said No thats very bad Class 9 is very stressful Why do you introduce a new language in Class 9 Why dont you introduce it in Class 6th Justice Nagarathna also recalled her school days and said that there was a choice in Class 9 to choose which language to studynbspShe said that students in her school began learning the third language during middle schoolnbspIt was Kannada for those who had a second language as Hindi and vice versa Sanskrit was also there so you could have a third language The earlier the better she observednbspJustice Nagarathna also asked the Tamil Nadu government against rejecting Central schemes merely because they originate from the CentrenbspYou may have your education system but dont prevent the Central government schoolsâYou should not have this attitude that it is the Union government scheme so why should we accept it she saidnbspThe bench however noted that discussions between the Centre and the State were underway regarding the establishment of Navodaya schoolsnbspTalks have not concluded If that fails then only a question of us addressing any merits arises the bench observedCounsel for the state sought some time to seek further instruction in the matternbspThe bench noted that a new dispensation has come into power in the state and observed that it remained to be seen what policy approach the new government would adoptnbspThe matter has been posted for further hearing on August 11nbspThe Tamil Nadu government has challenged the 2017 order of the high court which directed the establishment of a JNV in every district of the StatenbspThe high court had held that the States refusal to permit JNVs curtailed students right to choose educational institutions and was inconsistent with the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act of 2009nbspThe top court had stayed the high courts directions on December 11 2017 after the state government challenged the decisionOn December 15 2025 the top court modified the order of stay and directed the state to identify the requisite extents of land that is necessary for establishing Navodaya Vidyalaya in each of the districts of the StatenbspThe said exercise shall be carried out within a period of six weeks and place the report before this court it had said while clarifying that the directions were issued only in the interest of those students who are entitled to be admitted to such schools in Tamil NadunbspThe top court also asked the representatives of the State and the Centre to hold discussions with regard to the establishment of these schools in the StatenbspAgencies https://dailyworld.in/national/sc-voices-concern-over-cbses-third-language-policy-from-class-9-onwards-693211.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:04:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-begins-drafting-vetri-tamizhagam-vision-document-as-blueprint-for-vijays-governance-693121.html Chennai July 15 IANS With the State Budget session approaching the Tamil Nadu government has launched an ambitious exercise to prepare the Vetri Tamizhagam Vision Document a comprehensive policy framework that will define the longterm governance agenda of the TVKled administrationnbspThe document is expected to be unveiled during the Budget session and will lay out the governments development priorities across sectors for the coming yearsConceived as the cornerstone of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijays governance philosophy the Vision Document seeks to present an alternative model of administration centred on transparent governance peoplecentric development social justice efficient public services sustainable economic growth and equal opportunitiesThe government intends to position it as a departure from the governance models pursued by Tamil Nadus two traditional Dravidian parties over the past several decadesChief Secretary M Sai Kumar has directed Secretaries of every government department to prepare detailed departmentwise Vision Documents identifying sectorspecific priorities policy reforms and longterm development goalsThe exercise is progressing alongside Budget preparations with several new welfare measures and policy initiatives expected to be incorporated into both the Vision Document and the BudgetSenior officials said departments have been instructed to undertake a comprehensive review of existing welfare schemes and flagship programmes before submitting their proposalsEach department has been asked to assess the effectiveness of ongoing initiatives recommend whether schemes should be strengthened modified or discontinued and propose fresh programmes that align with the governments broader policy objectivesOfficials said the exercise is intended to create a governance framework that reflects the new administrations priorities while improving service delivery and administrative efficiencyDepartments have also been asked to submit detailed reports on the implementation and outcomes of existing schemes to help identify gaps and recommend reformsThe largescale policy exercise has significantly increased the workload of senior officials who are simultaneously handling Budget preparations departmental reviews and the drafting of the Vision DocumentSources said the additional responsibility has placed considerable administrative pressure on several departments The impact has reportedly begun to reflect in routine government functioning Revenue administration in particular has witnessed delays in processing patta transfers mutation requests and other landrelated files in several districtsAt Ezhilagam in Chennai which houses several government commissionerates visitors have reportedly been informed that routine administrative work may move more slowly than usual until the Budget session concludes as officials remain engaged in finalising what the government considers its defining policy roadmap for a Vetri TamizhagamIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tn-begins-drafting-vetri-tamizhagam-vision-document-as-blueprint-for-vijays-governance-693121.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/every-indian-seafarer-in-gulf-region-to-be-individually-accounted-for-govt-693123.html New Delhi July 15 IANS As the West Asia situation escalates the government has said that every Indian seafarer in the affected Gulf region will be individually accounted for irrespective of the vessels flagnbspThe government has launched a comprehensive SeafarerFirst response directing an unprecedented wholeofgovernment approach to safeguard every Indian seafarer operating in the conflictaffected regionUnion Minister Sarbananda Sonowal directed the Director General of Shipping DGS to establish a comprehensive vesselbyvessel operational dashboard to account for every Indian on every vessel irrespective of their flags operating in the Persian Gulf Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of OmanAccording to an official statement the dashboard will provide realtime information on vessel position ownership cargo crew strength crew welfare threat assessment intended voyage next port of call and the availability of facilitiesIn a meeting Sonowal said that India has expressed its strong resentment and objection to the manner of attacks on defenceless civilian merchant vesselsnbspThese have resulted in the death and serious injury of Indian seafarers who as key workers ensuring the proper functioning of global supply chains due to these irresponsible unwarranted and uncalledfor attacks I am profoundly hurt and aggrieved by the unfortunate and tragic loss of one more of our brave and innocent seafarer along with the injuries suffered by others in two attacks the minister emphasisednbspThe minister directed officials to work closely with Indian Missions in Iran Oman and the United Arab Emirates and other affected nations in the region alongside the Ministry of External Affairs MEA to obtain verified and realtime information relating to navigational safety coastalstate advisories route status portofrefuge arrangements hospitals medical evacuation repatriation procedures mortal remains management and the status of ongoing investigationsHe also directed the Ministry that shipowners vessel managers and Recruitment and Placement Service Licence RPSL agencies employing Indian seafarers in the region to immediately furnish compliance reports and confirmation that no Indian seafarer is being compelled to sail without adequate information protection and supportIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/every-indian-seafarer-in-gulf-region-to-be-individually-accounted-for-govt-693123.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:58:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/pilgrims-stream-into-ayodhya-amid-donation-theft-row-saints-exbabri-litigant-appeal-for-faith-in-sit-probe-693126.html Ayodhya July 15 IANS Devotees continued to arrive in large numbers at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Wednesday with pilgrims asserting that their faith remains unshaken despite the ongoing Ram Mandir donation controversynbspnbspAs the Special Investigation Team SIT continues its probe into the alleged donationrelated irregularities religious leaders and local stakeholders have called for patience and confidence in the investigationGeneral visuals from the Jagadguru Shri Ramanandacharya Dwar of the Ram Temple showed devotees lining up early in the morning to offer prayers and seek the darshan of Ram Lalla underscoring that the flow of pilgrims remains steadyCommenting on the ongoing investigation Arya Saint Varun Das said people have placed their trust in the SIT and urged everyone to await its findingsEveryone is looking towards the SIT and people have expressed their trust in its investigation Only after the report is submitted can it be determined whether the SIT has conducted a fair investigation or if there has been any attempt to cover up facts As per the Chief Ministers statement the investigation has been carried out with the aim of separating fact from fictionFormer Babri Masjid case litigant Iqbal Ansari also appealed for preserving Ayodhyas image and maintaining communal harmony He described the alleged incident as unfortunate but emphasised that legal action has already been taken against those accusedAyodhya is a sacred city It is the abode of Lord Ram and the Ram Temple People should come to Ayodhya offer prayers and seek the blessings of Lord Ram As for the incidents that have taken place here they are unfortunate Those who committed wrongdoing are now behind bars People should help preserve and beautify Ayodhya and there is no need to publicise negative things about the cityDevotees visiting the temple echoed similar sentiments saying the controversy has not diminished their faith in Lord Ram or the templeOne devotee said I have come to the Ram Temple to offer prayers After the donation theft case more devotees are arrivingAnother pilgrim who was visiting the temple for the fourth time said the devotion among worshippers remains unchanged I have come here many times This is my fourth visit There is no lack of faith The crowd is the same as before he told IANSThe remarks come amid the ongoing investigation into the Ram Mandir donation row which has drawn public attention in Uttar Pradesh The state government has constituted a Special Investigation Team to examine the allegations with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stating that the probe aims to distinguish facts from speculationDespite the controversy the temple complex continued to witness heavy footfall from devotees arriving from different parts of the country reflecting sustained public faith and enthusiasm for offering prayers at the Ram MandirIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/pilgrims-stream-into-ayodhya-amid-donation-theft-row-saints-exbabri-litigant-appeal-for-faith-in-sit-probe-693126.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:40:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/significant-moment-in-india-uk-partnership-pm-modi-hails-landmark-free-trade-agreement-693130.html New Delhi July 15 IANS Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described the coming into force of the IndiaUK Free Trade Agreement FTA and the accompanying Agreement on Social Security as a significant moment in bilateral tiesnbspHe said the landmark pacts would deepen economic engagement and create new opportunities for businesses workers and investors in both countriesSharing a post by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on X the Prime Minister said This is a significant moment in the IndiaUnited Kingdom partnership With the coming into force of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement CETA and the Agreement on Social Security our economic linkages are going to get even deeperHighlighting the benefits of the trade pact the Prime Minister said Together these agreements translate our shared ambition into tangible opportunities for our people The CETA will give fresh momentum to our farmers entrepreneurs and MSMEs Several vibrant sectors will gain stronger access to the UK market he saidIt will also deepen cooperation in technology professional services and innovation while supporting greater mobility for skilled Indian talent The Social Security Agreement will provide invaluable support to Indian professionals working temporarily in the UK and strengthen the competitiveness of Indian enterprises he addedDescribing the development as a reflection of the mutual trust between the two democracies the Prime Minister said This moment reflects the trust between our democracies and our resolve to build a forwardlooking partnership driven by trade technology investment and innovation India and the UK will continue working together for shared prosperityEarlier Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal termed the agreement a defining milestone in IndiaUK relations and a major achievement under the leadership of Prime Minister ModiUnder the dynamic leadership of Honble PM Narendra Modi ji the IndiaUK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement CETA and the Agreement on Social Security have come into force delivering zeroduty market access for nearly 99 per cent of Indias exports covering almost 100 per cent of trade value Goyal saidAccording to the minister the FTA is expected to unlock unprecedented opportunities across key sectors including textiles leather gems and jewellery engineering goods marine products chemicals and processed food while providing a significant boost to MSMEs farmers and manufacturersGoyal also said the agreement would open new avenues for Indias IT financial education professional and business services sectors while facilitating greater mobility for Indian professionals The accompanying Social Security Agreement is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Indian companies and workers by exempting Indian professionals on temporary assignments in the UK from paying double social security contributions for up to five yearsThe twin agreements are being seen as a major step towards expanding trade and investment flows between India and the UK while strengthening cooperation in emerging sectors and supporting longterm economic growth in both countriesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/significant-moment-in-india-uk-partnership-pm-modi-hails-landmark-free-trade-agreement-693130.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 13:09:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-arrests-bank-of-baroda-branch-manager-credit-officer-in-bribery-case-693136.html Lucknow July 15 IANS The Central Bureau of Investigation CBI has arrested the Branch Manager and Credit Officer of Bank of Barodas Koireepur branch in Uttar Pradeshs Sultanpur district for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe from a loan beneficiary an official statement said on WednesdaynbspThe arrested officials have been identified as Swarnim Srivastava Branch Manager and Pushpak Chaudhary Credit Officer both posted at the Bank of Barodas Koireepur branchAccording to the CBI a case was registered on July 13 based on a complaint alleging that the accused officials had sought an undue advantage for the release of funds under a governmentbacked loan schemeThe complainant had been sanctioned a Rs 5 lakh loan under the Chief Minister Yuva Udyami Yojana at the Koireepur branch While the term loan component had already been disbursed the overdraft facility sanctioned as part of the loan package was yet to be releasedThe agency alleged that the Branch Manager and Credit Officer demanded a bribe of Rs 45000 from the complainant in exchange for facilitating the disbursement of the overdraft component of the sanctioned loanFollowing verification of the complaint the CBI laid a trap on July 14 During the operation the agency caught the Credit Officer allegedly accepting Rs 35000 from the complainant The CBI claimed the money was accepted in conspiracy with and at the behest of the Branch ManagerSubsequently both officials were taken into custody and arrested by the agencyThe accused were produced before the competent court in Lucknow Further investigation into the case is underway the CBI saidEarlier in the first week of this month the CBI had arrested the Project Director of the National Highways Authority of India NHAI Shillong and two private persons for demanding a bribe of Rs 12 lakh from the complainant to process his outstanding bill to the tune of Rs 1338 croreThe accused public servant had instructed the complainant to give part of the bribe amount to the tune of Rs 4 lakh in advanceIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-arrests-bank-of-baroda-branch-manager-credit-officer-in-bribery-case-693136.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 14:21:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/calcutta-hc-seeks-bengal-dgps-report-on-number-of-cases-firs-against-abhishek-banerjee-693137.html Kolkata July 15 IANS A singlejudge bench of the Calcutta High Court on Wednesday sought a detailed report from the office of the Director General of West Bengal Police on the number of cases and FIRs registered against the Trinamool Congress general secretary and the partys Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee in different police stations in the statenbspThe counsel for Abhishek Banerjee approached the High Courts singlejudge bench of Justice Sougata Bhattacharya seeking clarity on the exact number of cases and FIRs registered against him at different police stationsAfter a preliminary hearing on the matter in the afternoon Justice Bhattacharya sought a detailed report from the office of the DGPWhile submitting the petition seeking clarity on the exact number of cases and FIRs registered against him the counsel for Abhishek Banerjee also argued that since his client was a political person so many cases had been filed against him out of sheer vendettaWe are aware that so far a total of eight FIRs have been registered against my client However I am not aware of the total number of cases going on against him So we want clarity in the matter After the detailed police report we will place our next line of arguments in the matter submitted Banerjees counsel to the courtIn his counterargument the state government counsel said there was no question of political vendetta since all the cases against the Diamond Harbour MP were based on specific complaints registered against himThereafter Justice Bhattacharyas bench directed the office of the state DGP to submit a detailed report to the court on the number of cases and FIRs registered against the Trinamool Congress general secretaryAt the same time the court also directed the DGPs office to submit a report detailing the subjects of the eight FIRs registered against the Diamond Harbour MPThe next hearing in the matter will be on July 22 and by then the office of the DGP will have to submit the report to the courtIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/calcutta-hc-seeks-bengal-dgps-report-on-number-of-cases-firs-against-abhishek-banerjee-693137.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:43:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-bjp-writes-to-ec-states-chief-electoral-officer-flagging-sir-irregularities-693138.html New Delhi July 15 IANS The Bharatiya Janata Partys BJP Punjab unit has written to the Election Commission of India ECI alleging irregularities in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision SIR in the state and urged the poll panel to ensure strict compliance with its guidelines for fair and transparent verification of votesPunjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon in a letter to the ECI as well as the Punjab chief electoral officer CEO claimed that the poll officials are collecting information unrelated to the SIR exercise and seeking unauthorised documents from voters and also sought urgent intervention by the polling body and a detailed inquiry into alleged wrongdoingsSome officials are collecting data from electors relating to various schemes of the Punjab government and persuading or inducing them to avail such schemes These are wholly unrelated to the purpose of the SIR exercise the letter highlightedIt states that complaints have been received from various places where Booth Level Officers BLOs are collecting documents unrelated and unrequired for the SIR and hence troubling the genuine electorsThe voter verification exercise in Punjab slated from June 25 to July 24 for mapping 214 crore voters in the state ran into controversy some time ago over Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns appeal to eligible voters to participate in the SIR process as this would help them not only safeguard their voting rights but also ensure that they remain recipients of govt welfare schemesPunjab BJP chief complained that the BLOs are demanding a range of documents from electors including a rent deed or affidavit from the landlord and hence causing undue convenience to the electors stressing that this was putting additional and unnecessary strain on the electors and was also making the process complicated and inconvenientIn a slew of demands he has sought immediate inquiry into illegal gathering of documents disciplinary action against unauthorised activities and directions by the poll panel to the officials not to deviate from stipulated guidelinesThe state BJP unit has also urged the EC to ensure strict adherence to its prescribed guidelines so that the electoral roll revision is conducted in a free fair transparent and citizenfriendly mannerNotably the enumeration exercise under the SIR drive of electoral rolls commenced across Punjab on June 25 with about 25000 BLOs undertaking the survey of households in the stateThe voter verification drive under SIR assumes significance as the state is headed to the Assembly elections slated early next yearIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/punjab-bjp-writes-to-ec-states-chief-electoral-officer-flagging-sir-irregularities-693138.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:54:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/will-head-to-delhi-on-july-19-even-if-permission-for-jantar-mantar-protest-denied-omar-abdullah-693139.html Srinagar July 15 IANS Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and vice president of the ruling National Conference NC Omar Abdullah said on Wednesday that he and his legislators will head to Delhi on July 19 even if permission for a protest at Jantar Mantar is deniednbspThe NC has announced a protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20 coinciding with the beginning of the Monsoon Session of Parliament to press for restoration of statehood to Jammu and KashmirnbspSpeaking to reporters in Srinagar Omar Abdullah said the partys stand on the restoration of Jammu and Kashmirs snatched rights remains firmThere will be no change in our programme Dr Mustafa Kamal also wanted our snatched rights to be restored the CM said He said the party has decided to continue with its scheduled political programmes even when Dr Kamals health deteriorated on July 11nbspDoctors had then told us that perhaps he would not survive Even at that time National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah instructed us that whatever happens we have to continue with our Jammu programme on July 12 If we did not cancel that programme there is no question of cancelling the July 20 protest he saidCM Abdullah said he has already informed the party leaders to leave for New Delhi on July 19 even if permission is not granted for the protestnbspThe Chief Minister said the National Conference would continue to exercise patience while also keeping alternative plans readynbspWe know how to remain patient We will wait but we will also keep our alternate plan ready he saidIn a related development various groups of migrant Kashmiri Pandits have also announced a protest at Jantar Mantar on July 20 demanding that statehood should follow their rehabilitation and not precede itnbspMeanwhile NC MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has said he would not be joining the NCs Jantar Mantar protestnbspSenior separatist leader and chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq welcomed the move but said it should have included the demand for permanent settlement of the Kashmir issueIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/will-head-to-delhi-on-july-19-even-if-permission-for-jantar-mantar-protest-denied-omar-abdullah-693139.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:57:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cabinet-clears-right-to-time-bound-services-bill-693140.html New Delhi July 15 IANS The Rekha Gupta government approved the Delhi Right of Citizens to TimeBound and Easy Delivery of Services Bill 2026 on Wednesday replacing the 2011 law with a modern technologydriven legal framework for citizencentric governancenbspThis Bill incorporates clear penal provisions to ensure the accountability of government officialsnbspA historic governance reform that transforms timebound public services into a legal right of every citizen Inspired by the spirit of Seva Hi Sankalp this landmark reform is another decisive step towards a Viksit Delhi rooted in speed transparency and Seva the Chief Ministers Office CMO said in a statementA penalty of Rs 250 per day capped at a maximum of Rs 5000 may be imposed on the concerned official for delays in service delivery without valid reasons However before any penalty is levied the official will be given a full opportunity to present their case and offer an explanation thereby ensuring adherence to the principles of natural justice according to the officialsnbspChief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the objective of this Bill is to ensure that every citizen receives government services within a stipulated timeframenbspIt also aims to make government departments and officials more accountable for delays and negligence in service delivery This legislation will prove to be a significant step towards administrative reforms in Delhi and a milestone in providing citizens with services that are transparent simple effective and technologydriven the Chief Minister was quoted as saying by her officeCM Gupta said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and advancing his vision of good governance the Delhi Government is taking this crucial step to provide citizens with timely simple and transparent servicesnbspThe new system will extensively utilise modern digital technologies to make service delivery faster more transparent and more effective said the Chief MinisternbspAccording to the officials under the Bill every citizen will have the statutory right to receive notified government services within a prescribed timeframeThe government will issue notifications from time to time to specify which services fall under the ambit of this law Notifications regarding these services their respective timeframes and the designated officials responsible for them will be issued by the Delhi Government the officials saidnbspThe Bill includes provisions to digitise the entire process from application submission to the delivery of the service Citizens will be able to apply online each application will be assigned a uniquenumber and its status would be tracked online in realtimeInformation regarding every stage of the application process will be available digitally and departments will also monitor progress online to ensure timely service deliverynbspThis will largely eliminate the need for citizens to make repeated visits to government offices Furthermore the governance system will become simpler more transparent and more efficient ensuring the effective delivery of government services the officials saidnbspAutomatic escalation automatic appeal is a key feature of this Bill according to the CMO which further stated If a designated officer fails to provide the service within the stipulated timeframe the citizen will not need to file a separate appeal the matter will automatically be escalated as an appeal to the Citizen Grievance Redressal Authority If a decision is not reached there within the prescribed period either the matter will automatically be referred to the Delhi Right to Service Commission This ensures automatic accountability throughout the system and spares citizens from navigating unnecessary procedural hurdlesUnder the Bill Citizen Grievance Redressal Authorities will be appointed in every department These authorities will adjudicate appeals related to service delays or application rejections issue directives for service delivery where necessary fix responsibility for delays and initiate penal action if required Generally the provision mandates the disposal of all appeals within 30 daysAdditionally an independent statutory body the Delhi Right to Service Commission will be constituted under the Bill comprising a Chairperson and other members This body will be responsible for hearing second appeals monitoring the effective implementation of the law inspecting government offices recommending departmental action against negligent officials and proposing the inclusion of new services under the ambit of the law as neededThe implementation of this law will ensure citizens receive government services in a timebound manner reduce unnecessary delays and repeated visits to offices enhance transparency through digital tracking ensure official accountability and provide an effective mechanism for grievance redressal This will make the governance system more efficient transparent responsive citizencentric and reliable while further strengthening public trust in government services Chief Minister Gupta statedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-cabinet-clears-right-to-time-bound-services-bill-693140.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-orders-fresh-tender-for-passport-visa-outsourcing-at-four-indian-missions-693156.html New Delhi July 15 IANS The Delhi High Court on Wednesday set aside the technical evaluation process for outsourcing Consular Passport and Visa CPV services at Indian Missions in Abu Dhabi The UAE Kuwait Singapore and Canberra Australia holding that the assessment of bidders was vitiated by arbitrariness irrationality and lack of transparency in violation of Article 14 of the ConstitutionA Division Bench of Justices Anil Kshetrapal and Shail Jain allowed a batch of petitions filed by E Trav Tech Limited and Verasys Limited challenging their disqualification at the technical bid stage in tenders floated by the Ministry of External Affairs MEA for outsourcing CPV services at the four Indian MissionsThe Justice Kshetrapalled bench held that while courts ordinarily do not sit in appeal over technical assessments by expert bodies judicial review is warranted where the decisionmaking process is arbitrary opaque and fails to satisfy the constitutional requirements of fairness transparency and equalityThe parameterwise marks awarded to the Petitioners are vitiated by arbitrariness irrationality and lack of transparency rendering the impugned technical evaluations unsustainable under Article 14 of the Constitution the Delhi High Court saidIt added that although the government had furnished parameterwise marks following directions of the Supreme Court it failed to disclose the basis on which those marks were awardedThe evaluation sheets neither identify deficiencies in the Petitioners proposals nor disclose the comparative benchmarks applied while awarding proportionately lower marks under comparative criteria the court judgment said adding that the bidders were left without any means to ascertain why their otherwise compliant proposals were considered inferior to competing bidsThe Delhi High Court also found significant inconsistencies in the marking process saying that materially identical proposals and supporting documents were awarded substantially different scores across different Missions without any recorded reasonsIn the absence of any recorded reasons for such varying assessments the distinct allocation of marks appears unsupported by any objective basis it said adding that consistency in evaluating substantially identical material is an essential facet of a fair and transparent tender processRejecting the Centres contention that the petitions were barred by the principles of res judicata the Delhi High Court held that the challenge arose from a fresh cause of action after the disclosure of parameterwise marks pursuant to earlier court ordersIt also dismissed the argument that deficiencies in the bids had been explained during oral presentations before the Technical Evaluation CommitteesEven assuming that such presentations formed part of the evaluation they cannot substitute recorded reasons If deductions were founded upon shortcomings noticed during such presentations those shortcomings ought to have been reflected in the contemporaneous evaluation records the judgment saidHolding that the absence of recorded reasons constituted the most fundamental infirmity in the evaluation process the Justice Kshetrapalled bench said that merely communicating parameterwise marks without disclosing the factual basis for deductions violated the General Financial Rules 2017 the tender conditions and settled principles of fair administrative actionThe failure of Respondent Numbers 1 and 2 to record and communicate reasons for the technical evaluation violates Rules 173iv and 189 of the GFRs 2017 rendering the decisionmaking process opaque arbitrary and contrary to the principles of natural justice and fair administrative action it heldSetting aside the technical evaluations the Delhi High Court also nullified the award of contracts in favour of the successful private biddersIt directed the MEA and the concerned Indian Missions to issue fresh Requests for Proposal RFPs for procurement of CPV services at Abu Dhabi Kuwait Singapore and Canberra within one month and make sincere efforts to complete the tender process expeditiouslyHowever the Delhi High Court permitted the existing service providers to continue operating until the fresh tender process is completed to ensure that there is no disruption in public servicesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/delhi-hc-orders-fresh-tender-for-passport-visa-outsourcing-at-four-indian-missions-693156.html Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:55:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/un-must-lead-in-era-of-conflict-instability-eam-jaishankar-launches-indias-unsc-202829-campaign-693017.html United Nations July 14 IANS External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar launched Indias campaign for a nonpermanent seat on the United Nations Security Council UNSC for the 202829 term outlining New Delhis vision for a more representative effective and futureready global ordernbspAddressing the event Jaishankar stressed that the world is facing unprecedented challenges and called for stronger leadership from the United Nations and its principal security bodyWe are witnessing levels of conflict violence and instability that threaten even those who may be far away Jaishankar saidTo address this complexity the UN must take the lead and the Security Council must show the wayHighlighting Indias broader vision for global governance he added As we contemplate the global order Indias focus will be on working for a secure peaceful and equitable world A world where the voice of the Global South is heard in equal measure A world where peacekeeping is ready for contemporary and future challenges a world where multilateralism reflects contemporary realities and provides effective solutions not remain on high standards a world where the promise of technologies is fulfilledFollowing the launch Jaishankar shared details of Indias campaign on X saying Pleased to launch Indias campaign for the UN Security Council 202829He said Indias approach would be rooted in SHANTI Securing Holistic Advancement through Norms Trust and Integrity and would focus on strengthening the voice of the Global South in matters relating to international peace and securityHe said Indias approach would be guided by dialogue cooperation and efforts to bridge differences among nationsThe minister also outlined Indias commitment to building a futureready UN peacekeeping framework that is better equipped technologically enabled realistically mandated and focused on core objectives He said India would continue to champion the Women Peace and Security agenda and support a greater role for women peacekeepersOn emerging technologies Jaishankar said India would promote a humancentric vision of artificial intelligence anchored in inclusivity security and the public good while working to counter the misuse of AI and the threats it could pose to international peace and securityHe further said India would prioritise promoting a free open and rulesbased maritime order in accordance with international law particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea UNCLOS Ensuring the safe and unimpeded flow of maritime commerce combating piracy safeguarding seafarers and supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster relief HADR missions would remain key prioritiesJaishankar also underlined the need for sustained efforts to counter terror financing and called for a transparent sanctions regime based on objective and evidencebased proposals for listing terrorist groupsConcluding his message the External Affairs Minister reiterated that a reformed representative and resultsdriven Security Council needs a voice of the Global South at the table presenting Indias UNSC campaign as one aimed at making global governance more inclusive and responsive to contemporary challengesIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/un-must-lead-in-era-of-conflict-instability-eam-jaishankar-launches-indias-unsc-202829-campaign-693017.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 11:01:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/tvk-govt-set-to-give-final-approval-to-key-budget-proposals-in-july-16-cabinet-meeting-693018.html Chennai July 14 IANS The Tamil Nadu Cabinet is set to give final approval to key Budget proposals and clear the states first full Budget at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on July 16 ahead of its likely presentation in the Assembly during the first week of AugustnbspnbspThe Cabinet meeting is scheduled for 1030 am at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat where ministers are expected to deliberate on the governments financial priorities before granting formal approval to the BudgetThe meeting will mark a major milestone for the TVKled coalition government as it prepares to present its maiden full Budget after assuming office following the 2026 Assembly electionsThe Budget is expected to outline the governments fiscal strategy and policy priorities for the 202627 financial year It is likely to include measures aimed at strengthening welfare programmes accelerating infrastructure development boosting employment opportunities supporting agriculture improving healthcare and education and attracting fresh investments to the stateSince taking office Chief Minister Vijay has been holding a series of review meetings with senior officials across departments to assess the progress of ongoing schemes identify funding requirements and finalise new initiativesThese consultations are understood to have played a key role in shaping the Budget with the Cabinet meeting expected to serve as the final stage of discussions before the document is presented in the AssemblyOfficials indicated that ministers would review expenditure plans sectorwise allocations and major policy announcements before giving their approval Once cleared by the Cabinet the Budget will be finalised for presentation during the first week of AugustThe forthcoming Budget carries added significance as it will be the first comprehensive financial statement of the TVKled government It is expected to provide a detailed roadmap for the administrations governance agenda while reflecting the promises made by the ruling alliance during the Assembly election campaignEarlier this year the previous DMK government presented an interim Budget for the 202627 financial year in view of the Assembly elections Following the change in government after the polls the Vijayled administration is now preparing to present its first full Budget which is expected to set the tone for its economic and developmental priorities over the coming yearIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/tvk-govt-set-to-give-final-approval-to-key-budget-proposals-in-july-16-cabinet-meeting-693018.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 11:48:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-to-set-up-indias-first-govt-driven-ai-university-cm-shivakumar-693023.html Bengaluru July 14 IANS Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday announced that Karnataka will establish Indias first governmentdriven Artificial Intelligence University reaffirming the states ambition to emerge as a global hub for responsible AI innovationnbspThe Chief Minister also announced the creation of an AI Hub that will function as an incubation centre for research and development bringing together startups companies academic institutions and innovators to accelerate AIdriven solutionsMaking the announcements while inaugurating Google IO Connect India 2026 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre BIEC Shivakumar said the proposed AI University would play a pivotal role in developing worldclass AI talent promoting advanced research and fostering collaboration between academia industry and governmentAddressing technology leaders entrepreneurs developers researchers and policymakers from India and abroad Shivakumar described Artificial Intelligence as the defining technological revolution of the present generation comparable to the transformative impact of the steam engine electricity the Internet and mobile technologyKarnatakas vision is to build one of the worlds leading centres for responsible Artificial Intelligence Bengaluru is not just Indias technology capital but one of the worlds most vibrant innovation ecosystems he saidHighlighting the states technological strengths the Chief Minister said Karnataka contributes nearly 40 per cent of Indias software exports while Bengaluru is home to more than 17000 startups and thousands of Global Capability Centres GCCs developing products for global marketsHe said the governments goal is to make Karnataka an AInative state by integrating AI into governance and public service delivery AI he said should help teachers improve learning outcomes enable doctors to diagnose diseases earlier provide farmers with better advisory services deliver faster and more citizencentric government services and empower small businesses to compete more effectivelyShivakumar also emphasised the need to strengthen Karnatakas digital infrastructure by expanding data centres hyperscale computing facilities and research ecosystems to support AI innovation and nextgeneration digital servicesPraising Google for its longstanding partnership with Karnataka he noted that the company has made Bengaluru one of its most significant global centres for engineering research and innovationHe also acknowledged the impact of Googles products including Search Android YouTube Maps Chrome Gmail and Google Pay in transforming how Indians access information conduct business and interact with government servicesInviting Google to deepen its engagement with Karnataka the Chief Minister proposed collaboration in developing AI solutions for education healthcare agriculture and governance supporting startups expanding learning opportunities for students and positioning Karnataka as a global laboratory for responsible AIConcluding his address Shivakumar urged developers to build boldly entrepreneurs to dream big researchers to continue innovating and students to embrace lifelong learning saying Karnataka would continue shaping the future of technology while ensuring AI remains innovative inclusive and trustedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/karnataka-to-set-up-indias-first-govt-driven-ai-university-cm-shivakumar-693023.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 13:13:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-electricity-cuts-atc-losses-with-crackdown-on-power-theft-693025.html Mumbai July 14 IANS Adani Electricitys antitheft drive has succeeded in significantly reducing its Aggregate Technical and Commercial ATampampC losses to 446 per cent in FY 202526 from 47 per cent in the previous year which positions it among the Discoms with the lowest ATampC losses nationwide according to a company statement issued on TuesdayThis significant reduction of 024 per cent in ATampampC losses across Adani Electricitys extensive network will lower the burden on honest paying consumers the statement saidAdani Electricity conducted 36720 mass raids during the financial year 20252026 and registered 486 First Information Reports FIRs against perpetrators of power theft This intensified vigilance also reflects a 40 per cent increase in oddtiming raids which include early morning late evening and holidaysAdditionally 5897 power theft cases were booked During raids 7925 tons of illegal wires were recovered A total theft of 1982 million units amounting to Rs 4339 crore was assessed according to the statementThe important cases include the successful detection and booking of a highvalue electricity theft case of Rs 163 crore involving direct supply for moulding activity at Swastik Compound Chincholi Bandar Road Malad West on 7th November 2025 by the companys vigilance teamSimilarly on 4th July 2025 another highvalue electricity theft case of Rs 80 lacs was booked involving direct supply for moulding activity at Motilal Nagar Goregaon WestnbspBesides a case involving electricity theft to the tune of Rs 4873 lakh was booked in June involving direct supply for moulding activity at Malad EastStealing electricity is a nonbailable offence Under Section 135 of the Electricity Act 2003 an offender can be punished with a fine a jail term of up to three years or both once proven guiltyAdani Electricity actively collaborates with police authorities to conduct regular mass raids apprehend offenders and confiscate equipment used for power theft During FY 202526 a significant amount of 7925 tons of unauthorized wires and other equipment were seized the statement saidPower theft in highdemand areas like slum clusters where new network development is challenging due to space constraints severely overloads the existing infrastructureThis strain increases maintenance costs due to more frequent cable and transformer failuresAn Adani Electricity spokesperson said Power theft unfairly burdens honest paying consumers Adani Electricity is committed to eliminating the menace of power theft By combating such unlawful activities we safeguard the interests of our customers We will intensify our efforts in specific areas to further reduce ATampampC losses this yearThe significant reduction in ATampampC losses this year is a direct result of our intensified efforts against power theft This not only safeguards our infrastructure but also alleviates the financial burden on our honest paying consumers by enabling us to maintain competitive tariffs he addedIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-electricity-cuts-atc-losses-with-crackdown-on-power-theft-693025.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 13:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-files-16th-chargesheet-against-builder-firm-bank-officials-in-noida-homebuyer-fraud-cases-693034.html New Delhi July 14 IANS In a major development in its ongoing probe into largescale homebuyer fraud the Central Bureau of Investigation CBI has filed its 16th chargesheet against Ms Saha Infratech Pvt Ltd its director and officials of HDFC Bank Ltd and ICICI Bank Ltd for their alleged involvement in fraudulent activities linked to a housing project in Noida according to an official statement issued on TuesdaynbspThe chargesheet has been filed before the Special Judge for CBI Cases at the Rouse Avenue District Court RADC New DelhiThe CBI investigation revealed that the accused builder company and its director allegedly conspired with bank officials and other private individuals to induce homebuyers and investors through false assurances and misleading representations The accused are alleged to have secured financial gains through illegal and deceptive meansAccording to the agency substantial evidence gathered during the investigation led to the filing of the chargesheet under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act The charges include criminal conspiracy abuse of official position cheating and criminal breach of trustThe CBI is currently investigating 33 other cases registered pursuant to directions issued by the Supreme Court against various builder companies and unidentified officials of financial institutions across the country These cases involve allegations of cheating homebuyers and diversion of fundsSo far the agency has filed 15 chargesheets against several real estate firms including Rudra Buildwell Constructions Pvt Ltd Dream Procon Pvt Ltd Jaypee Infratech Ltd AVJ Developers India Pvt Ltd CHD Developers Pvt Ltd Sequel Buildcon Pvt Ltd Logix City Developers Pvt Ltd Manju J Homes India Ltd Shubhkamna Buildtech Pvt Ltd Ninex Developers Ltd Decent Buildwell Pvt Ltd Rudra Buildwell Projects Pvt Ltd Ithaca Estate Pvt Ltd and LGCL Urban Homes India LLP along with their directors and officials of certain banks and financial institutionsThe CBI reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability in cases involving economic offences corruption and public fraud particularly those adversely affecting the interests of common citizens and homebuyersIANS https://dailyworld.in/national/cbi-files-16th-chargesheet-against-builder-firm-bank-officials-in-noida-homebuyer-fraud-cases-693034.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:11:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/mumbai-rs-2983-lakh-transferred-from-deceased-womans-savings-account-three-booked-693035.html Mumbai July 14 A case of alleged fraud involving nearly Rs 2983 lakh withdrawn from the bank account of a deceased account holder has come to light at an Axis Bank branch on Tardeo Road in Mumbai prompting a police investigation According to Mumbai Police the alleged fraud took place in the account of Vimla Patil a deceased customer Preliminary investigation has revealed that a Customer Request Form CRF bearing forged signatures in the name of the deceased was allegedly submitted at the bank following which funds were transferred from the account through NEFT UPI and IMPS transactions to different bank accountsPolice said the total amount allegedly siphoned off from the account was Rs 2983200Following the detection of the alleged fraud officials of Axis Bank approached the police based on which the Tardeo Police Station registered a case against Rahul Panjwani Abhishek Verma and Ram Pal under charges of cheating and other relevant provisions of lawA Mumbai Police official said âA case has been registered and the investigation is underway We are examining the role of the accused and all aspects of the alleged fraudulent transactionsâInvestigators are also probing how the forged Customer Request Form was accepted and processed and whether the accused acted alone or with the assistance of othersPolice are further examining whether the three accused may have used a similar modus operandi to fraudulently withdraw money from the accounts of other deceased account holdersOfficials said the investigation will also focus on tracing the flow of funds transferred through NEFT UPI and IMPS and identifying the beneficiaries of the transactionsThe case has raised concerns over the alleged misuse of banking documents and fraudulent access to accounts belonging to deceased customers Police are collecting documentary and technical evidence as part of the ongoing investigationFurther investigation into the case is underway and officials said appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings of the probe IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/mumbai-rs-2983-lakh-transferred-from-deceased-womans-savings-account-three-booked-693035.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:22:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/champion-of-rajasthani-folk-culture-and-language-kc-maloo-passes-away-at-80-693037.html Jaipur July 14 Former Veena Cassettes founder and noted cultural patron KC Maloo widely regarded as one of the foremost champions of Rajasthani language folk music and cultural heritage passed away after a heart attack late Monday night He was 80 His last rites will be performed on Tuesday at 430 pm The funeral procession will commence from his residence Maloo House Shanti Path Parshvanath Colony Nirman Nagar Jaipur and proceed to Purani Chungi Moksha DhamBorn in 1946 in Sujangarh Churu district KC Maloo devoted his life to the preservation and promotion of Rajasthanâs rich cultural traditionsThrough Veena Cassettes he recorded and distributed thousands of Rajasthani folk songs devotional compositions and cultural performances helping preserve the states musical heritage while providing a platform to countless emerging artistsA committed advocate for the recognition of the Rajasthani language Maloo remained actively associated with the longstanding movement to include Rajasthani in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of IndiaHe also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of a delegation advocating for the languages official recognitionOne of his most significant contributions came during Rajasthans severe drought in 1987 when he organised the historic Lata Mangeshkar Night in Jaipur The concert raised approximately Rs 101 crore for drought relief Legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar performed without charging any fee while renowned artists Mohammed Aziz Nitin Mukesh and Usha Mangeshkar also participatedFor his outstanding contributions to art and culture KC Maloo received several prestigious recognitions including the Samagra Kala Sadhana Award and the Dagar Gharana AwardThe Government of Rajasthan also honoured him with the Rajasthan Ratna Award in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to preserving and promoting Rajasthani music language and folk traditions over several decades Just a week before his passing Maloo had met former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot at his residenceThe passing of KC Maloo has drawn heartfelt tributes from leaders and members of the cultural fraternity across the country Among those expressing condolences were Grammy Awardwinning musician Vishwa Mohan Bhatt former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot BJP State President Madan Rathore Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and several eminent personalities from the fields of art literature and social service Vishwa Mohan Bhatt described Maloo as an unparalleled patron of folk music whose contribution would be remembered for generationsAshok Gehlot noted that he had met Maloo only a week earlier and said his lifelong dedication to music gave Rajasthani songs a distinct identity across India and around the worldMLA Gopal Sharma described Maloos life as an extraordinary example of selfless public service and cultural dedication carried out without government assistance Maloo conducted extensive research on traditional Rajasthani wedding songs and compiled 221 songs into two comprehensive volumes regarded as one of the worlds largest documented collections of wedding songsPublished in Hindi English and Rajasthani the collection was further preserved through 24 audiovideo CDs Over his lifetime he prepared manuscripts and audio recordings of more than 5000 Rajasthani folk songs creating an enduring archive for future generations Through iconic albums featuring classics such as Ghoomar Cheermi and Kangasiyo he brought Rajasthans folk traditions to audiences across India and abroadHe also established SurSangam a leading institution dedicated to indigenous music and strengthened Veena Music as one of the countrys most respected platforms for Rajasthani folk musicWorking alongside legendary composer Naushad he played a pivotal role in elevating the stature of Rajasthani folk music by bringing together celebrated artists from across the nationKC Maloo leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of cultural preservation artistic excellence and unwavering commitment to Rajasthans language and folk traditions His contributions will continue to inspire generations of artists researchers and cultural enthusiasts IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/champion-of-rajasthani-folk-culture-and-language-kc-maloo-passes-away-at-80-693037.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:23:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/keralas-jailed-bjp-councillor-takes-oath-inside-viyyur-prison-693041.html Thrissur July 14 In an unprecedented development in the history of Keralas local selfgovernment jailed BJP leader R Sugathan elected as a councillor to the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation was sworn into office inside the Viyyur Central Prison on Tuesday after the Kerala High Court permitted the oathtaking ceremony to be conducted in jail The brief but historic ceremony was held at around 11 am in the prisons library hall and lasted less than three minutesThe oath was read out by Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Mayor VV Rajesh and Sugathan repeated itThe Corporation Secretary and the Superintendent of Viyyur Central Prison were present on the daisThe Corporation Secretary initiated the proceedings and invited the Mayor to administer the oath Reading from the prescribed text the Mayor administered the oath which Sugathan repeated taking the pledge in the name of God before signing the required documentsSugathan is lodged in Viyyur Central Prison in connection with proceedings initiated against him under the Kerala AntiSocial Activities Prevention Act KAAPAHe moved the Kerala High Court seeking permission to take the statutory oath from prison arguing that failure to do so within the prescribed period would result in the loss of his elected officeThe High Court granted permission paving the way for Tuesdays swearingin while directing that the ceremony be conducted strictly in accordance with the law and under the supervision of the competent authoritiesThe event is believed to be the first instance in Kerala of an elected local body representative being sworn into office from inside a prisonThe unusual venue underscored the legal principle that an elected representative unless disqualified under law retains the right to assume office after being duly electedWith the oath administered Sugathan formally assumes office as a councillor of the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation even as the legal proceedings against him continueRajesh speaking to the media outside the jail said that as per the directive of the High Court Sugathan has been sworn inâThere were two cases against him at a local court in Nedumangadu and he has got bail Then there is the KAAPA case The opposition is free to say anything and itâs their job We will also do our job and thatâs why the CPIM is unhappy said RajeshThe ward of Sugathan is now taken care of by me and there is no unfinished work in his constituencyâ said RajeshSP Deepak CPIM councillor in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation said this has brought disrepute to the corporation and the BJP leadership has to take full responsibility for thisâWe are continuing our protest Sugathan has not taken part in the two previous council meetings and if he remains absent for a third time in succession then he will lose his post The Mayor is delaying the holding of the next Council meeting for obvious reasonsâ said Deepak IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/keralas-jailed-bjp-councillor-takes-oath-inside-viyyur-prison-693041.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:27:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-woman-poisons-her-two-children-to-death-dies-by-suicide-693045.html Amaravati July 14 In a tragic incident a woman poisoned her two minor sons to death before committing suicide in Andhra Pradeshâs Palnadu district According to police the incident occurred at Vittamrajupalli village in Vinukonda mandalNakka Bharati 24 killed Tejesh Reddy 6 and Hemanatha Nagi Reddy 4 before hanging herself at her housePolice suspect that she served food laced with poison to her sons on Monday night and then died by suicideThe incident came to light on Tuesday morning Villages informed the police and a team rushed to the spot and shifted the bodies for postmortem examinationFamily dispute is believed to have led to the tragedy Bharati was married to Sunil Reddy who works as driver of a milk vanAccording to their neighbours Sunil Reddy had become addicted to vices and was allegedly not taking proper care of the family This had led to frequent fights between the husband and wifePolice registered a case and took up further investigationThis is the latest in a series of such tragic incidents in Telugu states Family disputes were found to be the main cause for most of the incidentsEarlier a woman slit the throats of two young daughters and later attempted to kill herself by slitting her own throat The incident had occurred on June 30 in Srikakulam district of Andhra PradeshAccording to police Varalakshmi killed her daughters Bhavani 3 and Chandni four months Family dispute led to the alleged killings and suicide attemptOn June 13 a woman killed her two children before committing suicide The incident had occurred in Adavi Venkatapuram village of Telanganaâs Vikarabad districtAccording to police Nabanita 27 killed her son Vignesh 7 and daughter Madhupriya 5 before killing herself She was reportedly in the grip of severe depression following a domestic dispute IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/andhra-woman-poisons-her-two-children-to-death-dies-by-suicide-693045.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-electricity-cuts-atampc-losses-with-crackdown-on-power-theft-693046.html Mumbai July 14 Adani Electricityâs antitheft drive has succeeded in significantly reducing its Aggregate Technical and Commercial ATampC losses to 446 per cent in FY 202526 from 47 per cent in the previous year which positions it among the Discoms with the lowest ATampC losses nationwide according to a company statement issued on Tuesday This significant reduction of 024 per cent in ATampC losses across Adani Electricityâs extensive network will lower the burden on honest paying consumers the statement saidAdani Electricity conducted 36720 mass raids during the financial year 20252026 and registered 486 First Information Reports FIRs against perpetrators of power theft This intensified vigilance also reflects a 40 per cent increase in oddtiming raids which include early morning late evening and holidaysAdditionally 5897 power theft cases were booked During raids 7925 tons of illegal wires were recovered A total theft of 1982 million units amounting to Rs 4339 crore was assessed according to the statementThe important cases include the successful detection and booking of a highvalue electricity theft case of Rs 163 crore involving direct supply for moulding activity at Swastik Compound Chincholi Bandar Road Malad West on 7th November 2025 by the companyâs vigilance teamSimilarly on 4th July 2025 another highvalue electricity theft case of Rs 80 lacs was booked involving direct supply for moulding activity at Motilal Nagar Goregaon West Besides a case involving electricity theft to the tune of Rs 4873 lakh was booked in June involving direct supply for moulding activity at Malad EastStealing electricity is a nonbailable offence Under Section 135 of the Electricity Act 2003 an offender can be punished with a fine a jail term of up to three years or both once proven guiltyAdani Electricity actively collaborates with police authorities to conduct regular mass raids apprehend offenders and confiscate equipment used for power theft During FY 202526 a significant amount of 7925 tons of unauthorized wires and other equipment were seized the statement saidPower theft in highdemand areas like slum clusters where new network development is challenging due to space constraints severely overloads the existing infrastructureThis strain increases maintenance costs due to more frequent cable and transformer failuresAn Adani Electricity spokesperson said Power theft unfairly burdens honest paying consumers Adani Electricity is committed to eliminating the menace of power theft By combating such unlawful activities we safeguard the interests of our customers We will intensify our efforts in specific areas to further reduce ATampC losses this yearâThe significant reduction in ATampC losses this year is a direct result of our intensified efforts against power theft This not only safeguards our infrastructure but also alleviates the financial burden on our honest paying consumers by enabling us to maintain competitive tariffsâ he added IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/adani-electricity-cuts-atampc-losses-with-crackdown-on-power-theft-693046.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:33:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/fake-fb-account-in-bluru-dcps-name-fir-filed-after-fraudster-dupes-public-friends-693048.html Bengaluru July 14 The Hebbagodi Police in Bengaluru on Tuesday registered an FIR against an unidentified person for allegedly creating a fake Facebook account in the name of M Narayana Deputy Commissioner of Police DCP Electronic City Division and using it to fraudulently collect money from the officers friends and members of the public The complaint in the case has been filed by DCP Narayana after it came to light that an impersonator had created a fake social media profile posing as the senior IPS officer and allegedly sought financial assistance from people known to himAccording to the FIR the accused has already managed to collect money from some of the DCPs friends and members of the public by falsely claiming to be the officerBased on the complaint the Hebbagodi Police have registered a case against the unidentified accused under Sections 3184 and 3192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita BNS 2023 along with Sections 66C and 66D of the Information Technology Act 2000 The provisions deal with cheating identity theft and cheating by personation using computer resourcesAccording to the complaint the accused created and operated the fake Facebook profile to impersonate the DCP and contacted people through the account requesting money on various pretexts Investigators suspect that the fraudster exploited the officers identity and credibility to convince victims to transfer fundsThe FIR states that the accused created a fake profile under the name Om Singh and used it to communicate with prospective victims The complaint also includes details of the bank account mobile numbers and UPI ID allegedly used by the accused to receive the money These financial details are now being examined as part of the investigation to trace the flow of funds and identify the person behind the fraudPolice are also analysing the digital trail including social media activity and transaction records to determine the extent of the cheating and ascertain whether more people have fallen victim to the scamThe Hebbagodi Police have launched a detailed investigation to identify and apprehend the accused They have also advised the public to exercise caution while responding to requests for money received through social media platforms even if they appear to originate from government officials or police officers Citizens have been urged to verify the authenticity of such accounts through official channels before making any financial transactionsMeanwhile DCP M Narayana released a video on Facebook cautioning the public against the fraudulent account Miscreants have created a fake Facebook account in my name IPS NARAYANA M and are cheating members of the public by collecting money on the pretext of selling household items at discounted prices I have not recommended the sale of any products nor have I shared the contact details of any individual he saidIn this regard a case has been registered The public is advised not to trust such phone calls messages or social media posts Before making any financial transaction they should verify the authenticity of the information through official channels he said IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/fake-fb-account-in-bluru-dcps-name-fir-filed-after-fraudster-dupes-public-friends-693048.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:38:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/brs-congress-policies-eroded-confidence-of-singareni-workers-kishan-reddy-693051.html Hyderabad July 14 Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy on Tuesday alleged that the policies of successive BRS and Congress governments have steadily eroded the confidence and sense of security of the employees of Singareni Collieries Company Limited SCCL He claimed that Singareni has repeatedly been used as a political tool by previous governments instead of being strengthened as one of the countrys most important public sector enterprisesAs part of âSingareni Bharosa Yatraâ he visited KTK8 Mine in Jayashankar Bhupalpally district and interacted with Singareni workers and their familiesThe Central minister stated that unwavering commitment and hard work of the workers have been instrumental in powering Indias growth for decadesKishan Reddy highlighted the growing anxiety and uncertainty that has gripped Singareni workers over the last decade and emphasised that it is unfortunate that after the formation of Telangana the policies and failures of successive BRS and Congress governments have steadily eroded the confidence and sense of security of the workforceThe Union Minister demanded complete transparency from the Telangana government regarding the utilisation of District Mineral Foundation DMF funds provided by the CentreHe also raised serious concerns over the nearly â¹9000 crore in pending dues owed to Singareni for coal supplied to Telangana GENCO which has placed an unnecessary financial burden on the companyHe claimed that the Centres decision to allocate the Tadicherla2 Coal Block to Singareni reflects the unwavering commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards protecting Singareni safeguarding the interests of its workers and strengthening Telanganas growthHe expressed confidence that when the Bharatiya Janata Party forms the government in Telangana it will further strengthen Singareni ensure transparent governance improve workers welfare and develop the organisation with the welfare and aspirations of its workers at the heart of every decisionKishan reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Singareni to sustained profitability reassured the workforce and their families of his unwavering support He also reaffirmed commitment to securing a stronger more prosperous future for the companyBJP Telangana State President N Ramchander Rao MLC Anji Reddy MLA Dhanpal Suryanarayana and other BJP leaders were present IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/brs-congress-policies-eroded-confidence-of-singareni-workers-kishan-reddy-693051.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:41:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-hc-rejects-pulsar-sunis-plea-to-suspend-sentence-in-2017-actress-assault-case-693053.html Kochi July 14 The Kerala High Court on Tuesday dismissed the plea filed by Pulsar Suni the prime accused in the 2017 actress assault case seeking suspension of his sentence pending the disposal of his appeal Rejecting the petition the High Court observed that the dignity of the survivor also had to be taken into consideration while deciding the requestPulsar Suni was sentenced to 20 years rigorous imprisonment by the trial court after being convicted in the caseHis appeal challenging the conviction and seeking to have the sentence set aside is currently pending before the High CourtMeanwhile he had sought suspension of the sentence until the appeal is finally decidedOpposing the plea the survivor pointed out before the court that the offence committed was a heinous crime and that the trial court had found the first accused guilty after a fullfledged trialShe argued that suspending the sentence would send a wrong message and be perceived as diminishing the gravity of the offenceThe prosecution also urged the court not to suspend the sentenceIt informed the court that its appeal seeking enhancement of the sentence awarded to the accused is also pending considerationThe state government further argued that the first accused is a habitual offender with a serious criminal backgroundIt pointed out that the accused had repeatedly approached the courts seeking bail following which he had even been fined by the court for filing successive bail petitionsThe prosecution also submitted that within a month of being released on bail by the Supreme Court in an earlier case the accused was implicated in yet another criminal case demonstrating that he was a repeat offenderAfter hearing the arguments advanced by both sides the High Court dismissed Pulsar Sunis plea seeking suspension of his sentence pending the disposal of his appealIn the case of actor Dileep who was in jail soon after the 2017 incident was however acquitted along with a few others IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/kerala-hc-rejects-pulsar-sunis-plea-to-suspend-sentence-in-2017-actress-assault-case-693053.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:42:00 +0530 https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-cm-urges-centre-to-complete-warangal-adilabad-airports-by-june-2028-693054.html Hyderabad July 14 Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Tuesday met Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu in New Delhi and sought cooperation to complete Warangal and Adilabad airports by June 2 2028 The Chief Minister told media persons after the meeting that they discussed issues relating to the two upcoming airportsHe stated that the Union Minister was extending his cooperation for the construction of these two airportsâWe have set a target to complete the work on these two airports and inaugurate them by June 2 2028â said the Chief MinisterHe noted that Telangana which accounts for 250 per cent of the countrys population contributes 5 per cent to the national GDPThe Chief Minister stated that airports meeting international standards are essential for the states further developmentHe said Kakatiya culture will be given prominence in the design of the Warangal airportâWe are holding the necessary discussions to secure cooperation from the Central government A spirit of cooperation between the Central and state governments will continue with development as the primary goalâ he saidRam Mohan Naidu told media persons that Revanth Reddy clearly mentioned that the Warangal airport would be completed by June 2 2028 which is Telanganas formation day He said if necessary extra efforts would be put in to achieve the targetHe announced that the work on the airport would begin in three weeksAccording to the Chief Ministerâs Office the two leaders discussed design and proposed facilities at both upcoming airportsRam Mohan Naidu had said in April that the foundation stone for the airport at Mamnoor in Warangal would be laid in three months The state government has already allotted the land for building the airportAfter a meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Ram Mohan Naidu and Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy he announced that an airport for defence will be built in Adilabad which will have an enclave for civil operationsWhile the defence already has an airstrip with 360 acres in Adilabad the Civil Aviation Ministry asked the state government to acquire another 450 acres for building the airportThe proposed airport will be a major facility with a runway capable of handling Airbus A320 aircraft IANS https://dailyworld.in/national/telangana-cm-urges-centre-to-complete-warangal-adilabad-airports-by-june-2028-693054.html Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:43:00 +0530