Kolkata's Rashbehari constituency faces a heated election battle. Trinamool Congress MLA Debasish Kumar is up against Bharatiya Janata Party's Swapan Dasgupta. The TMC holds the seat, but the BJP aims to win. Key issues include infrastructure development and welfare schemes. The election is scheduled for April 29. Counting of votes will take place on May 4.
Lyrid meteor shower Tonight Time: Skywatchers have a chance to see the Lyrid meteor shower this week. Early mornings offer the best views due to clear skies and a favourable moon. Look towards the constellation Lyra, near the bright star Vega. Meteors appear to originate from Lyra but are best seen by scanning the wider sky.
ECI imposes 48-hour dry day restrictions in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal ahead of polling
In preparation for the 2026 Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India has announced a ban on alcohol sales in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, introducing dry days leading up to polling and during vote counting. Authorities are mandated to enforce these restrictions rigorously, promoting a fairer and more tranquil voting atmosphere.
Court grants time to ED to file reply on Jacqueline's plea; ED calls it 'Vague'
Jacqueline Fernandes seeks to become an approver in the Rs 200 crore money laundering case involving Sukesh Chandrasekhar. The Enforcement Directorate requested more time to review her application, deeming it vague. The Patiala House Court has scheduled the next hearing for May 8. Fernandes claims she is ready to cooperate with the investigation.
Bhagyathara BT-50 Lottery Result (20-04-2026): Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Bhagyathara BT-50 weekly lottery today, April 20, 2026. The event saw the ticket holder of PL 561807 coming out as the winner of the grand first prize of 1 crore.
JEE Mains 2026 Session 2 toppers List: The National Testing Agency will soon release the JEE Main Session 2 Result 2026 on its official website. Candidates can check their scores and the list of toppers. The agency will also announce state, category, and gender-wise topper lists. Previous session toppers are also mentioned. Students can download their scorecards by logging in with their application number and password.
Iran executes two more opposition group members in latest crackdown: People's Mujahedin
Iran has executed two more members of the People's Mujahedin group. Authorities state they were hanged for spying for Israel. These hangings are part of a recent surge in executions of political prisoners. Rights groups warn of more executions to come. They urge a halt to all executions and release of prisoners in any talks with Iran.
Nitin Nabin accuses TMC of betraying women over quota bill
BJP leader Nitin Nabin accused the Trinamool Congress of betraying women by opposing the central government's women's reservation bill. He stated that the TMC's stance on this issue contrasts with their alleged support for minority reservations. Nabin highlighted concerns about women's safety in West Bengal and criticized the state government's policies regarding infiltrators.
Tamil Nadu Election Date 2026: From polling time to counting day, heres full schedule
Tamil Nadu Assembly Election 2026 Date and Time: Tamil Nadu's Legislative Assembly elections are set for April 23, 2026, with vote counting on May 4. Over 5.6 crore voters will participate in a significant three-way contest. Polling will occur from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM across all constituencies.
Israel warns Lebanese civilians against returning to south
Israel's military is warning Lebanese civilians not to return to southern villages. The military claims Hezbollah is violating a recent ceasefire agreement. Displaced residents have started returning home since the truce began. Israel states its forces remain deployed defensively. Hezbollah officials have also cautioned residents about potential Israeli actions.
West Bengal polls: ECI cracks down on musclemen, 135 arrested ahead of Phase 1 voting
As West Bengal braces for electoral battles, state officials are implementing rigorous security strategies. With more than 135 arrests made to date, the focus is on ensuring a tranquil election process. The Election Commission is harnessing advanced AI surveillance technology and outfitting security personnel with bodycams.
US begins 'biggest ever' Philippines war games in thick of Mideast conflict
American, Philippine, and Japanese forces have commenced joint military exercises in the Philippines. The drills involve thousands of personnel and advanced weaponry. These war games are taking place with the Middle East conflict in the background. Tensions are also high in the South China Sea and near Taiwan.
Udhampur bus accident: Death toll rises to 15; PM Modi expresses grief, announces ex gratia
Why B2B marketers need to think video first: key insights from the SaaS CMO Circle
In the latest episode of the SaaS CMO Circle podcast, top marketing thinkers from LinkedIn and Zoho reveal how B2B video content is engaging buyers and helping to close deals in ways that traditional static content cant. Traditional B2B marketing tactics revolve around content that buyers read. From product brochures and how-to guides through to case study PDFs, thought leadership blog posts, and detailed research reports, the core of B2B has involved exchanging written information for contact details. Its text that does the heavy lifting at every stage of the marketing funnel.
Gurgaon Drug Racket: Authorities in Gurgaon have busted a major illegal pharmaceutical racket involving spurious Mounjaro KwikPen (tirzepatide injections) worth over Rs 70 lakh, with two men arrested after a joint operation by the Drugs Control Department and police intercepted a vehicle carrying suspected fake diabetes and weight-loss drugs stored in violation of safety norms. The raid near Super Mart-1 led to the recovery of multiple cartons of injections in different strengths, with officials finding serious issues such as improper cold-chain storage, labelling mismatches, and packaging irregularities, suggesting the products are spurious.
Dharavi project begins; 11,000 rehab homes being constructed on railway land in Matunga
Inside Assams big contest: Sarmas dominance vs Gogois comeback bet
Assam voted in a crucial election. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's BJP faced a challenge from Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi. The outcome could reshape Congress's future in the Northeast. Sarma's leadership and BJP's organizational strength were key factors. Congress focused on governance reforms and economic revival. The results will influence opposition politics nationwide.
Iran says it is checking if Indian vessels were targeted in Strait of Hormuz firing incident
Reports have emerged suggesting that Iranian forces may have opened fire on Indian ships passing through the vital Strait of Hormuz. This unsettling occurrence coincided with increased activity among commercial fleets in the area. Furthermore, Iran is pointing fingers at the United States, alleging that Washington's maneuvers are not only obstructing diplomatic channels but also exacerbating conflict.
An IIT-Kharagpur graduate rejected a 4.3 crore job and Stanford PhD to co-found Giga, an AI startup that recently raised $61 million. Despite the success, the company faces allegations of malpractices and misleading employees from a former worker, which Giga denies as an extortion attempt.
FII selling fuels trading spikes but clouds medium-term growth outlook for Groww
Groww reports strong profit and revenue growth. However, foreign investor selling and global tensions create a mixed market. This boosts short-term trading activity on the platform. But sustained foreign selling could slow new user growth and asset inflows in the medium term. The company manages these market dynamics.
Major 7.4-magnitude quake hits off Japan, tsunami observed
A powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.4 has shaken northeastern Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported the tremor off the coast. Tsunami warnings have been issued for areas including Iwate, Aomori, and Hokkaido prefectures. The quake's epicentre was in the Pacific Ocean. It was strong enough to make movement difficult and cause damage to walls.
Apple teases AI-powered Siri overhaul in WWDC 2026 logo
Apple's upcoming WWDC event artwork suggests a significant upgrade for Siri. The assistant is expected to gain a new look within the Dynamic Island. Users will see improved conversational abilities and the power to handle multiple requests in one command. This move aims to make Siri a more capable AI assistant, integrating deeper with third-party apps.
World awaits fate of ceasefire after US seizes Iranian ship
Concerns over a ceasefire collapse grew as the U.S. seized an Iranian cargo ship, prompting Iran to vow retaliation and reject further peace talks. The incident jeopardizes efforts for regional peace, with Iran citing blockades and U.S. demands. Oil prices surged amid fears of continued Gulf traffic disruptions.
SC dismisses PIL seeking recognition of Netaji as 'National Son'
The Supreme Court has rejected a public interest plea. The petition sought to declare Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army responsible for India's independence. It also asked for Netaji to be named 'National Son'. The court refused to declare his birth anniversary and the INA's foundation day as national days.
India's MSME manufacturing sector continued to grow in early 2026. However, expansion slowed due to global issues, especially the West Asia crisis. This crisis caused longer shipping times and higher costs. Business activity saw new orders and production increase, but hiring remained steady. The outlook for the next quarter is positive but cautious. Policy support is vital for sustained growth.
5 easy mushroom recipes for busy people
Explore five easy mushroom recipes designed for the Indian palate, from spicy Masala Roasts to comforting Pulaos. These simple, everyday meals focus on traditional spices and quick cooking techniques, making mushrooms the perfect versatile ingredient for busy 2026 lifestyles without requiring any complicated culinary skills.
Iran's president stresses importance of diplomacy while noting distrust of US
Irans leader President Pezeshkian urges a return to diplomacy in light of escalating tensions with the United States. With a ceasefire on the brink of collapse, negotiations are on the horizon in Pakistan, but Iran's candidate delegation remains unconfirmed.
Ukrainian drone attack on Russia's Tuapse port kills one
A Ukrainian drone attack hit Russia's Tuapse port, causing a fire and killing at least one person. This major southern port is a key oil export hub and home to a large refinery. Debris from the drones damaged several buildings, including a kindergarten and a church. Russia's defense ministry reported destroying many drones overnight.
UP allows wheat sale at MSP without online registration
Uttar Pradesh farmers can now sell wheat at government procurement centers without prior online registration. This decision comes after many farmers faced difficulties registering and were forced to sell to middlemen. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered immediate implementation. Farmers can now sell their wheat as they did in previous years, ensuring fair prices for their produce.
Rs 1.6 crore for 1BHK! Viral property video tour shows Mumbais harsh housing reality
A viral video showcasing a compact Mumbai apartment for 1.6 crore has sparked widespread debate. While many expressed shock at the price for the small space, others defended its prime location and sea view. The clip highlights Mumbai's challenging housing market, where space comes at a significant premium, prompting discussions about affordability and urban living.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nationwide heatwave alert in India, warning of a 24C rise in temperatures across north and central regions, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. With severe heatwave conditions, rising AQI levels in Delhi, and temperatures crossing 43C in Raipur, experts warn of increasing heat stress, dehydration risks, and public health concerns. A western disturbance from April 23 may bring temporary relief, but extreme heatwave conditions in India are expected to persist.
A cricket final in Maharashtra's Jalgaon district descended into chaos when a local politician allegedly drove a tractor onto the pitch, destroying it. The politician, reportedly upset over not receiving an invitation to the MLA Trophy final, vandalized the playing surface. The match was called off due to unsafe conditions, and police intervened.
US warship passes through Malacca Strait, Indonesian Navy says
US-Iran war: A United States warship, the USS Miguel Keith, sailed through the vital Strait of Malacca over the weekend. Indonesian Navy officials confirmed the transit on Saturday, April 18. They stated the passage adhered to international law. The warship is based in Japan and was conducting routine operations. The Strait of Malacca is a crucial global shipping lane.
PM Narendra Modi meets South Korea President Lee Jae-myung at Hyderabad House in New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held a bilateral meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Hyderbad House in the national capital. Both the leaders were also seen planting a tree under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative.
CJI Surya Kant flags rising 'digital arrest' scams duping educated people
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant voiced shock at educated people being defrauded by digital arrests. A recent case involved an elderly woman losing all her retirement savings. The Supreme Court is actively addressing this growing cybercrime. Discussions are underway with authorities like the RBI and DoT to establish procedures and compensation frameworks.
Empty local train coach derails near Mumbai, causes rush hour delays
An empty local train coach derailed near Dombivli station on Monday morning. Services on Mumbai's busy suburban network were affected. Commuters faced delays and crowded trains. The incident occurred at 8.09 am. The coach was re-railed later. Traffic on the slow line resumed after diversion. Kalyan-bound services were unavailable at some stations.
Israeli Court postpones Netanyahu's testimony by a week, citing 'security-diplomatic' reasons
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's testimony in his corruption trial has been postponed. The Jerusalem District Court approved a defense request citing security and diplomatic reasons. Another witness will testify in his place. The trial is currently in the cross-examination phase. This development occurs during a shortened court week in Israel.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in New Delhi for key talks on AI, semiconductors, & trade
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung envisions a strengthened special strategic partnership with India, focusing on trade, technology, critical minerals, defence, and shipbuilding. He highlighted shared values and the need for close cooperation amidst geopolitical uncertainty, aiming to deepen comprehensive ties for mutual growth and innovation.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has announced 9,195 vacancies for Constable (Technical & Tradesmen and Pioneer) positions. Applications are open from April 20 to May 19, 2026, for both male and female candidates. The recruitment process includes PET, PST, CBT, trade tests, document verification, and a medical examination.
6 easy ways to protect car and bike tyres from blowouts in summer
Protect your vehicle from the intense Indian heat with these six essential tyre safety tips. From switching to nitrogen and checking cold pressure to practicing the 2-hour rest rule, these simple habits prevent dangerous blowouts and extend the life of your car and bike tyres during the 2026 summer season.
Nithin Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, voiced concerns over excessive digital device use by children, warning of long-term dependency. Cognitive neuroscientist Jared Cooney Horvath links this trend to declining learning abilities, even with more formal education. The debate now centers on content consumption and platform design, not just screen time duration.
West Bengal BJP candidate from the Kharagpur Sadar Assembly constituency, Dilip Ghosh, on Monday called the India Political Action Committee (I-PAC) a means to promote corruption in the state following the arrest of Director Vinesh Chandel in a money laundering case.
Can't allow the world to bend to a President who uses social media to go to war: Lula da Silva
UK to host first official visit of CDS Gen Anil Chauhan, focus on defence cooperation
India's Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, is on a three-day visit to the UK, marking the first official visit of its kind. Discussions with UK counterparts will focus on enhancing cooperation in training, operations, and defence industry partnerships, including co-production opportunities. This visit underscores the strengthening defence ties and shared ambition for a secure Indo-Pacific.
French prosecutors summon Elon Musk over allegations of child abuse images, deepfakes on X
Elon Musk faces scrutiny in Paris. Investigators are probing allegations of misconduct on his social media platform X. This includes the spread of child abuse material and deepfake content. Musk and former CEO Linda Yaccarino have been summoned for interviews. French authorities are investigating potential complicity in serious offenses.
MCD to roll out revised green charges for commercial vehicles entering Delhi
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi will soon implement new environment compensation charges for commercial vehicles entering the city. These revised rates, mandated by the Supreme Court, aim to reduce air pollution. Charges for light commercial vehicles and two-axle trucks have increased. Heavier trucks will face a steeper hike. This move is expected to deter polluting vehicles from entering Delhi.
Iran has executed two men accused of spying for Israel's Mossad. Mohammad Masoum Shahi and Hamed Validi were found guilty of belonging to a spy network. They received training abroad and planned attacks within Iran. Their death sentences were confirmed by the Supreme Court.
South Korea's Lee to seek big boost in economic ties in summit with PM Modi
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is in New Delhi for talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit aims to significantly increase economic ties, focusing on shipbuilding. Both nations plan to nearly double bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. Cooperation may also expand into finance, artificial intelligence, and defense. India's role in global production is highlighted.
CII proposes comprehensive reforms to streamline industrial land access in India
The Confederation of Indian Industry has presented a plan to fix issues in India's industrial land system. This aims to boost manufacturing by making land access easier and more transparent. The proposals include a national land bank and a digital single-window system. These changes are expected to speed up projects and attract more investment.
VP Radhakrishnan to visit Sri Lanka's Nuwara Eliya, meet Indian housing project beneficiaries
Indian Vice President C P Radhakrishnan concluded his Sri Lanka visit. He met beneficiaries of the Indian Housing Project in Nuwara Eliya. Discussions were held on education cooperation and extending the Overseas Citizen Card. The final tranche of houses under Phase 3 of the Indian Housing Project was handed over. Discussions also covered an oil pipeline and fishermen issues.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee attacked the BJP at a community outreach program in her Bhabanipur constituency, alleging voter list deletions and attempts to divide people on religious and caste lines. She emphasized elections as a festival of democracy and urged unity among diverse communities, vowing to protect communal harmony in Bengal.
Manipur Shutdown: State govt addresses minor deaths, security concerns
Manipur's Home Minister condemned a five-day shutdown protesting the deaths of two minors, highlighting its disruption to essential services. The government offered jobs to the bereaved family and promised justice, while also addressing demands from civil society groups and assuring enhanced security measures.
'I dont care...': Namita Thapar reacts to online trolling over her video on health benefits of namaz
Namita Thapar has responded to online trolling over her video on the health benefits of namaz. Her comments come amid wider corporate controversies involving Lenskart and Tata Consultancy Services, highlighting growing debates around workplace rights, religious expression and accountability in corporate India.
Industrialist Harsh Goenka has creatively embraced artificial intelligence to illustrate Mumbai's burgeoning benne dosa craze. His first AI-generated image, a charming vintage-style poster, humorously depicts long queues and the irresistible allure of butter-drenched dosas and filter coffee ice cream, resonating with local food enthusiasts.
Police incident halts BC Ferries operations at Horseshoe Bay, multiple routes disrupted
Major BC Ferries services faced significant disruptions on April 19, 2026. A police incident aboard the Queen of Surrey ferry at Horseshoe Bay terminal led to cancellations and delays. Services to Langdale, Bowen Island, and Nanaimo were affected. The West Vancouver Police Department resolved the situation in the early evening, allowing operations to resume.
'We have full custody...': US intercepts Iranian ship TOUSKA amid ongoing Hormuz blockade
The Jharkhand Academic Council is anticipated to release the JAC Class 12 Result 2026 shortly. Students who took the Intermediate exams can check their scores online using their roll code and number on official websites. The board exams for Arts, Science, and Commerce streams concluded on February 23, 2026.
Surat Railway Station News: Thousands of migrant workers crowded Surat's Udhna railway station, creating chaos and long queues as they rushed to leave. Beyond the summer rush, workers cited LPG shortages and slowing industrial activity as reasons for their departure, highlighting broader economic disruptions.
UAE asks US for a wartime financial lifeline as Iran conflict drags: Report
The United Arab Emirates is in discussions with the United States regarding a potential financial backstop. This measure is being considered in anticipation of a deepening crisis stemming from the Iran war. UAE Central Bank Governor raised the possibility of a currency-swap line with US Treasury officials.
U.S. Stock Market today: Oil prices have jumped, and the U.S. dollar rose. S&P 500, Dow Jones, Nasdaq futures fell in the pre-market trading.
JAC 10th Result 2026 Date: Jharkhand Academic Council is set to announce the Class 10 Matric results for 2026 shortly. Students can expect the results in late April or early May. The evaluation process is nearing completion. Official websites will host the results. Students should keep their roll codes and numbers ready for easy access. Passing requires 33 percent marks.
IRGC hardliners in control of Iran's military and diplomacy, moderates sidelined, says report
US-Iran war news: Iran's military apparatus and diplomatic teams are now under the control of the hardline Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. This internal power shift sidelines moderate figures. Recent maritime hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz underscore the IRGC's firm grip. The situation raises concerns about regional stability and future negotiations with the United States.
Manipur night rallies turn violent: Thousands flock to protest death of two children
Mark Carney says Canada's economic ties with US are a weakness that must be corrected
Canada's close economic ties with the United States are now a weakness, according to Prime Minister Mark Carney. He announced efforts to strengthen Canada's economy by attracting new investments and signing trade deals with other nations. Carney emphasized the need for Canada to rely less on a single foreign partner.
JEE Mains 2026 Season 2 Result link: The National Testing Agency (NTA) is expected to release the JEE Main Session 2 Result 2026 around April 20, 2026. Candidates can check their scorecards on official NTA websites after logging in with their application number and password or date of birth.
AHSEC Assam 12th Result Date: The Assam Higher Secondary Education Council is expected to release Class 12 results in the last week of April 2026. Students can check their marks on official websites like ahsec.assam.gov.in and resultsassam.nic.in, as well as via DigiLocker. The results will be available for Science, Arts, and Commerce streams.
Pakistan's military chief Asim Munir takes lead on US-Iran talks in diplomatic blitz
Pakistan's military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, is in Tehran carrying US proposals for a second round of US-Iran peace talks. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his foreign minister are engaging regional allies. This coordinated effort aims to advance the peace process. The talks are expected to take place in Islamabad this week. Security is being heightened in the capital.
Manipur shutdown over civilian killings disrupts normal life; Nagas call stir
Jesus' statue damaged in Lebanon: Israeli Army launches probe into viral photo
An Israeli soldier is under investigation after a photograph surfaced on social media showing him damaging a statue of Jesus Christ in a Christian village in southern Lebanon. The Israel Defense Forces condemned the act, stating it is inconsistent with their values and are working to restore the statue.
Louisiana shooting: Eight children killed, gunman died in Shreveport firing incident
Iranian forces launched drones at US warships after an attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman. The IRGC claimed US forces retreated after firing at the vessel, which Iran accused the US of seizing in violation of a ceasefire. Tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz amid accusations of maritime piracy and blockade violations.
Following a 10-day ceasefire, the IDF has revealed the Forward Defence Line in southern Lebanon, detailing the operational zone of five divisions and naval forces. These forces are actively dismantling Hezbollah infrastructure and preventing threats to northern Israel, aiming to fundamentally change the security reality along the border.
Iran not planning to attend talks with US in Pakistan
Iran is not currently planning to attend talks with the United States, state media said, after President Donald Trump ordered US negotiators to travel to Pakistan on Monday, just days before a ceasefire in the Middle East expires. Iran and the United States, along with Israel, are just three days away from the end of the two-week ceasefire that halted the Middle East war, ignited by surprise US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.
Iran-U.S. war: United States of America has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has lifted and then reimposed its own blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which before the war began almost two months ago handled roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply.
TMC ramps up campaign: Abhishek Banerjee urges door-to-door push across Bengal
Bengal's election campaign intensifies as Trinamool leader Abhishek Banerjee directs party workers to reach out to all voters. Cadres are instructed to explain government schemes and development work. They are also told to remain vigilant on polling day, monitor EVMs, and report any intimidation.
Volatile geopolitics slows GCC in March
Global geopolitical tensions are impacting new technology center openings in India. While the number of new centers slowed, existing ones are expanding. Experts predict continued growth in greenfield centers if uncertainties ease. The GCC ecosystem is steadily rising, driven by new capabilities in AI and product engineering.
M K Stalin unveils Chennai-focused 'Super Six' development promises ahead of Tamil Nadu polls
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has launched a special development package for Chennai. This initiative focuses on improving urban infrastructure and creating future job opportunities. Key promises include enhanced drinking water supply and a new cultural center. The plan also aims to expand the Chennai Metro Rail and invest in a dedicated hub for artificial intelligence and related technologies.
Iran reports 3,468 deaths in war with US, Israel: Official
Iran's Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs reported over 3,400 deaths in the recent conflict with the US and Israel. This announcement follows a two-week ceasefire, with the latest toll indicating 3,468 martyrs lost. Previous reports had cited slightly lower figures, while a US-based agency estimated over 3,600 fatalities, including civilians and military personnel.
West Bengal polls: ECI flags 55 seats as 'expenditure sensitive'
West Bengal faces heightened election scrutiny. The Election Commission has marked 55 constituencies as expenditure sensitive. This year, 100 observers are deployed, the highest number across poll-bound regions. Seizures of cash, liquor, drugs, and freebies have surged. Several border areas and urban centers are under close watch to ensure fair elections.
CBI arrests DGCA official, corporate consultant in alleged bribery case
The Central Bureau of Investigation has apprehended a senior Directorate General of Civil Aviation official and a consultant linked to Reliance Industries. The arrests stem from an alleged bribery case involving 2.5 lakh for drone import approvals. The DGCA deputy director-general is accused of demanding payment for granting permissions. The consultant is also associated with a drone manufacturing firm.
ED crackdown in Bengal: Kolkata businessman arrested, cops premises searched in laundering probe
The Enforcement Directorate has arrested a Kolkata businessman in a money laundering investigation. The probe targets a criminal syndicate operating in the poll-bound state. Searches were conducted at the businessman's residence and that of a Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner. The case is linked to alleged organized criminal activities and illegal fund generation.
Annamalai factor? BJP's Coimbatore test gets tougher
Voters in Coimbatore are shifting their support away from the BJP. Some students who were inspired by K Annamalai are now considering voting for actor-politician Vijay. Former volunteers who worked for Annamalai are also stepping back. However, some party loyalists continue to campaign for the BJP, believing the party is paramount.
Iran to resume international flights from Mashhad airport on Monday
Iran's Civil Aviation Organization announced that international flights will resume from Mashhad Airport starting Monday. This marks the beginning of a phased reopening of Iranian airspace, with transit flights and eastern airports being prioritized. Travelers can now purchase tickets for international routes to and from Mashhad.
CII calls for GIS-enabled national land bank to ease industrial acquisitions
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is advocating for a unified national industrial land bank. This initiative aims to create an online system simplifying land acquisition for factories. The proposed system will offer comprehensive land details. Reforms include standardized impact assessments and faster acquisition processes. Uniform stamp duty is also recommended to streamline investments across states.
UK police examine Iran links to arson attacks on Jewish targets
London police are probing potential Iranian involvement in recent arson attacks targeting Jewish sites. The UK Chief Rabbi warns of a growing campaign of violence. A pro-Iranian group has claimed responsibility for some incidents. Counter-terrorism units are actively investigating these threats. Authorities are vigilant about hostile Iranian activity within the UK. These events highlight a concerning escalation of tensions.
TMC 'betrayed' women, will be punished in Polls: PM Modi in Bengal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Trinamool and Congress for allegedly conspiring to defeat the Women's Reservation Bill. He addressed rallies in West Bengal's tribal regions, accusing the ruling party of betraying women. Modi promised financial assistance and the creation of Lakhpati Didis if the BJP forms the government, highlighting women's empowerment.

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