'Sting op probe will reveal the truth, 'great leader' will be caught in trap: Karnataka minister
Digital Desk | Madikeri (Karnataka) Nov 2 (IANS) Karnataka Agriculture and Kodagu District In-charge Minister P.M. Narendra Swamy has said that the truth behind the sting operation controversy would soon come out, asserting that the investigation was progressing and questioning who was being protected by the police. Speaking to reporters on Sunday after participating in the 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations at the District Police Parade Ground in Madikeri, Narendra Swamy targetting Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy, said a great leader who made sensational statements after returning from the United States could soon be caught in the trap he had laid. The investigation into the sting operation is underway. Who is the great leader who made sensational statements after returning from the United States? Towards whose residence in Delhi is the investigation progressing? Why are the Delhi Police not allowing the investigation? Whom are the police protecting, and what is the background behind all this? The truth will soon come out, he said again taking aim at Kumaraswamy. He added that the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already made a statement regarding the investigation into the sting operation case and alleged that the person behind the controversy was now getting caught in the trap he had created. It can be noted that, in a major twist, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh on Sunday said that investigators have found evidence suggesting that a mobile phone was exchanged at the residence of Union Minister Kumaraswamy in connection with the alleged sting operation case. Launching a sharp attack on the Opposition in Karnataka, Narendra Swamy accused it of attempting to defame the ruling Congress and create differences between former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. The Opposition has resorted to the audacity of character assassination in an attempt to create differences between Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar and cause a split within the ruling party, he said. Criticising Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, Narendra Swamy said it was unfortunate that he was making uncultured remarks instead of speaking about the state's development, allocation of funds or shortcomings in governance. He added that the power available in a democratic system should not be misused for personal attacks instead of serving the public. On the issue of granting official recognition to the Kannada flag, the Minister said the Karnataka government had unanimously decided to send a proposal to the Centre seeking official recognition for it. He added that the matter of adding another colour and an emblem to the Kannada flag would be discussed during the Legislative Assembly session. Responding to questions over the increase in milk and curd prices, Narendra Swamy said the direct benefit of the hike would reach farmers and women engaged in dairy farming. The Cabinet decided to increase the milk price after considering the rising cost of cattle feed and the financial difficulties faced by farmers. At the same time, the decision has been taken while maintaining a balance to ensure that the increase in the prices of milk and curd does not become an excessive burden on consumers, he added. Responding to a question about the protests against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Delhi, the Minister said the INDIA alliance was fighting to protect every citizen's right to vote and was raising its voice against the alleged misuse of investigating agencies.
Digital Desk | Kalaburagi (Karnataka), Nov 2 (IANS) Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge has said that technical evidence and crucial documents had emerged during the investigation into the sting operation case, adding that legal action would be taken against anyone found involved, irrespective of their influence or position. The statement made on Sunday has assumed significance in the backdrop of Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh who earlier in the day said that investigators have found evidence suggesting that a mobile phone was exchanged at the residence of Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy in connection with the alleged sting operation case. Speaking to the media in Kalaburagi, he added that the investigation was continuing and several important aspects had already come to light. More facts would emerge as the probe progressed, he said. Kharge said that people holding public positions should maintain the dignity of their office and refrain from repeatedly making personal attacks, derogatory remarks about caste and family, and using disrespectful language. He expressed displeasure over Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy's statements. He added that technical examination during the investigation had revealed several significant aspects. He recalled that Union Minister Kumaraswamy had earlier laid siege to the Police Commissioner's office after his name reportedly figured during the investigation and had also taken out a march to the Director General of Police's office. The investigation was examining the origin of the case and who had orchestrated it, Kharge said, adding that the FIR contained specific references to the publicity campaign surrounding the case and those working behind it. He alleged that people who had worked with Kumaraswamy and his close associates were not appearing for questioning. Kumaraswamy should have asked them to cooperate with the investigation, Minister Kharge said, questioning why he had not done so. Kharge aso added that after one person was caught in connection with the case, another individual was traced in Delhi. The CCTV footage related to this was available, he said. The investigators were examining where the equipment had been purchased and whose instructions had led to the operation, he added. According to the information available, three individuals, including two from Delhi, had officially worked with Kumaraswamy. Hardware and technical evidence had also been recovered in the case, Kharge claimed. Accusing Kumaraswamy of indulging in what he described as dirty politics against Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the Karnataka Home Minister said the investigation was far from over. This is just the trailer; the movie is yet to come, Priyank Kharge remarked. He also alleged that derogatory remarks had been made against his caste and his father Mallikarjun Kharge. Kumaraswamy, who frequently made allegations against others, should at least exercise basic common sense, he said. He asserted that further action would be taken based on the documents and evidence collected during the investigation. Anyone found involved, including Kumaraswamy's associates and supporters, would face action, Priyank Kharge said. Challenging those alleging that he was behind the investigation, Minister Kharge asked them to produce evidence to substantiate their claims. Explaining why he was not disclosing all the details, the Minister said he wanted to maintain the confidentiality of the investigation. Some more documents were yet to be obtained, he added. Truth cannot be hidden for long, just like the sun and the moon. It will come out sooner or later, he said, asserting that the investigation had uncovered strong primary evidence. Those genuinely concerned about the investigation should discuss the evidence rather than make allegations, he added. Minister Kharge said that all those against whom suspicions had been raised were also being investigated and that further details would emerge after the next phase of the probe.
Per Capita Income of Rs 1.55 Lakh
There is good news in Jammu and Kashmirs latest income figures, but there is also a larger economic question we should not ignore. Per capita income in J&K increased from ` 62,327 in 201415 to ` 1,54,703 in 202425, an increase of nearly 148 per cent in ten years. This reflects an expanding economy, but the real story lies beyond the headline figure. What kind of economy are we building, and is this growth creating enough productive jobs and better incomes for ordinary people? J&Ks economy is estimated at around ` 2.65 lakh crore in 202425. The primary sector contributes approximately 20 per cent of Gross State Value Added (GSVA), the secondary sector 18.3 per cent and the services sector 61.7 per cent. At first glance, these figures suggest a reasonably diversified economy. A closer examination, however, reveals a different picture: a large dependence on services and public administration, substantial livelihood dependence on agriculture, seasonal tourism and a relatively small manufacturing base. This is where the real economic challenge begins. What Does the Income Figure Actually Mean? Divide ` 1,54,703 by 365 and the result is approximately ` 424 a day. Of course, this does not mean that every person in J&K earns ` 424 daily. Per capita income is an average measure of economic output, not an individuals salary. It also does not tell us how income is distributed among households. A hotel owner, a government employee, an orchardist and an unemployed graduate do not experience economic growth in the same way. The average can increase even when a significant section of the population sees little improvement in its income. There is another important factor. The 148 per cent increase is measured at current prices, which means inflation is included. The actual improvement in purchasing power is therefore smaller. Nevertheless, the progress deserves recognition. The more important question is whether this growth is translating into better wages, stable employment, stronger businesses and improved household incomes. The Gap with the National Average Indias per capita Net National Income in 202425 stood at approximately ` 2,00,162, compared with ` 1,54,703 in J&K. This means J&Ks per capita income is around 77 per cent of the national average. The gap has narrowed compared with earlier years, which is encouraging. But it remains significant. Why do some states generate considerably higher incomes than J&K? The answer is not simply that they have more economic activity. Many have developed stronger manufacturing industries, technology businesses, financial services, pharmaceutical companies and export-oriented enterprises. These businesses create value beyond their immediate local markets. They generate employment, develop supply chains, attract investment and improve worker productivity. J&K has resources, educated people, tourism potential and established traditional industries. What it lacks is sufficient economic depth to convert these advantages into higher and more consistent incomes. Agriculture: More Production Must Mean More Income Agriculture and allied activities contribute around 20 per cent of J&Ks GSVA and support a substantial proportion of its workforce. Horticulture, in particular, remains one of the regions strongest economic assets. Apples, walnuts, cherries and saffron have established markets. Yet the income of an orchardist depends on much more than the quantity harvested. What happens after the fruit leaves the orchard is equally important. Cold storage, grading, packaging, processing, transportation and direct access to buyers determine how much of the final selling price reaches the grower. We often celebrate record apple production, but production alone does not guarantee better incomes. If growers continue to sell primarily raw produce without sufficient processing and branding, much of the potential value is created elsewhere. J&K needs to move from being primarily a producer of agricultural commodities to developing a complete horticulture industry. This means more food-processing units, better storage facilities, organised supply chains and stronger connections with national and international markets. Tourism: Beyond Counting Visitors Tourism supports thousands of families through hotels, restaurants, transport, handicrafts, guides and other services. Its importance to J&K cannot be questioned. However, we should distinguish between the number of tourists arriving and the actual income generated for local businesses. Tourism is seasonal. A successful summer does not guarantee employment throughout the year. A hotel, taxi operator, guide or restaurant owner may earn well during a few months and struggle during the remaining period. The focus should therefore shift towards longer stays, higher visitor spending and year-round tourism. Winter activities, heritage tourism, village stays, conferences and cultural experiences can help extend the season. More importantly, we must ask how much of the money spent by visitors remains within the local economy. Tourist arrivals are an important indicator, but local earnings and stable employment are better measures of economic benefit. Government Employment Cannot Carry the Economy Alone One of the most striking features of J&Ks economy is the contribution of public administration, which accounts for approximately 17.5 per cent of GSVA. This helps explain why government employment carries such importance in the region. For many families, a government job represents financial security and social stability. But the government cannot be the principal employer for every educated young person entering the labour market. Nor can recruitment alone create the productive capacity required to raise incomes across the economy. We need a stronger private sector that offers professional careers, competitive wages and opportunities for growth. This also requires a change in how we approach entrepreneurship. Telling young people to start businesses is not enough. They need access to finance, markets, mentoring, practical skills and simpler procedures for establishing and operating enterprises. Manufacturing: The Missing Link Manufacturing remains one of the weaker components of J&Ks economic structure. This is important because manufacturing can connect agriculture, raw materials, technology, logistics and skilled employment. There are opportunities in food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, handicrafts, packaging, furniture, sports goods and light engineering. We do not necessarily need large industrial complexes. Clusters of small and medium enterprises, supported by reliable electricity, modern equipment, finance, quality certification and market access, could make a meaningful difference. Consider the apple industry. Instead of selling most produce in its raw form, J&K could develop a stronger processing industry producing juices, concentrates, dried fruit, packaged products and other value-added goods. The same principle applies to handicrafts. Pashmina, carpets, papier-ma ch and wood carving have considerable market potential, but artisans often receive a limited share of the final selling price. Better branding, product authentication, modern designs and direct access to buyers could improve both business earnings and artisan incomes. The objective should be to retain more economic value within J&K. Infrastructure and Hydropower: Investment Must Produce Returns Roads, tunnels, power projects and other infrastructure are essential for economic development. Construction generates employment and improves connectivity, but infrastructure expenditure should not be treated as an achievement in isolation. A road becomes economically valuable when it reduces transportation costs, connects producers to markets and encourages investment. A power project creates wider benefits when reliable electricity supports local industries, cold storage, food processing and businesses. Hydropower offers J&K an important strategic opportunity. But the benefits should extend beyond electricity generation. Project execution, environmental safeguards and local economic participation will determine how much value the region ultimately receives. We must look at infrastructure not only in terms of money spent or projects completed, but also in terms of the economic activity they generate. The Opportunity in IT and Professional Services Perhaps the biggest opportunity for J&K is to connect its educated workforce with markets beyond the region. Software services, digital operations, accounting, design, financial support, healthcare administration and other professional services can serve customers across India and overseas. These businesses do not always require large factories or extensive physical infrastructure. They need reliable connectivity, practical training, professional standards and access to clients. A young professional in Srinagar should be able to work for a company in Delhi, Dubai, London or Toronto without necessarily relocating. This requires educational institutions to work more closely with employers, training programmes to focus on actual market requirements and businesses to create opportunities for local talent. J&K does not need to become another Bengaluru. It needs to identify areas where its people can compete and build businesses serving wider markets. The Real Challenge Is Execution Most of these priorities have been discussed for years. We know that horticulture requires processing, tourism needs to extend beyond the summer season, handicrafts need stronger market access, and young people need employment beyond government recruitment. The problem is not a shortage of ideas. It is the gap between policy and implementation. We should measure progress through the income earned by orchardists, the number of functioning manufacturing units, private investment, permanent jobs, wages, business survival and the value of products exported outside J&K. Training programmes should be judged by employment outcomes, not certificates. Infrastructure should be judged by the economic opportunities it creates, not simply the amount spent. The administration, financial institutions, educational establishments and private businesses all have a role in making this transition possible. Growth Must Reach the Household J&Ks increase in per capita income from ` 62,327 to ` 1,54,703 deserves recognition. It reflects economic progress despite considerable challenges. But the next stage of development requires a different approach. We must create an economy that produces more value from its existing resources, provides stable employment and allows local businesses to compete beyond the region. The real measure of progress will be whether an orchardist earns more from his produce, whether a hotel worker has employment throughout the year, whether an artisan receives a fair price and whether a young graduate can build a meaningful career without being compelled to leave home. The question is no longer simply how much J&Ks economy has grown. It is whether we are building an economy capable of generating better incomes, productive employment and opportunities for the next generation. Syed Afaq has over 25 years of project management experience, including a long tenure at the Central Bank of Oman, and now mentors youth.
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H.D. Kumaraswamy criticizes Bengalurus police chief and the state government over a sting operation investigation linked to his residence. Kumaraswamy Launches Scathing Attack on Bengaluru Police Commissioner Amid Sting Operation Controversy
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Sting operation row: Kumaraswamy hits out at Bengaluru CP, Karnataka govt
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 1 (IANS) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy has launched a scathing attack on Bengaluru City Commissioner of Police, Seemant Kumar Singh, and the Karnataka government after the Commissioner referred to a link involving his Delhi residence during the investigation into the sting operation case against former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. An angry Kumaraswamy asserted that nobody could touch him and announced that he would make several revelations on Monday (Nov 2). Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, he said, The administrative machinery and officials of this government cannot take on or touch Kumaraswamy so easily. Taking a direct swipe at Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh, he asked, Who is this commissioner? Is he a Police Commissioner or a head clerk? He is behaving like a clerk. To protect his position and post, he is making such irresponsible statements at someone's behest. I know very well what all he is doing to retain his position. Responding to IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge's remark that only the trailer is over, the picture is yet to come in the sting operation case, Kumaraswamy said he had no need to learn filmmaking from others as he was originally a film producer. I am a film producer by profession. I do not need to learn filmmaking from them. They are now trying to make a film. I will hold a press conference at 11 am on Monday and show the real picture, he said. He further promised to present documentary evidence explaining who would ultimately be hit by the sting operation investigation, whom the state government was protecting and the direction in which the probe was proceeding. Referring to former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah obtaining a stay order from the court in connection with the case and statements made by his son Yathindra Siddaramaiah that the sting operation was carried out to blackmail and tarnish their image, Kumaraswamy assured his supporters and party workers that there was no need for them to panic. In a major twist, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh on Sunday said that investigators have found evidence suggesting that a mobile phone was exchanged at the residence of Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy in connection with the alleged sting operation case. Calling it a major development in the investigation, the Police Commissioner said one Ritesh Pandey had stayed at the address of Kumaraswamy and that a video was uploaded on the instructions of Prajwal Prasad. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Sunday said that technical evidence and crucial documents had emerged during the investigation into the sting operation case, adding that legal action would be taken against anyone found involved, irrespective of their influence or position. Speaking to the media in Kalaburagi, he said the investigation was continuing, and several important aspects had already come to light. More facts would emerge as the probe progressed, he added. He said technical examination during the investigation had revealed several significant aspects. He recalled that Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy had earlier laid siege to the Police Commissioner's office after his name reportedly figured during the investigation and had also taken out a march to the Director General of Police's office. The investigation was examining the origin of the case and who had orchestrated it, Kharge said, adding that the FIR contained specific references to the publicity campaign surrounding the case and those working behind it. He alleged that people who had worked with Kumaraswamy and his close associates were not appearing for questioning. Kumaraswamy should have asked them to cooperate with the investigation, he said, questioning why he had not done so.
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Accused in chainsaw attack on Andhra girl injured in police firing
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 1 (IANS) The accused in Saturdays electric chainsaw attack on a Class 10 girl student in Andhra Pradeshs Anantapur district was injured in the police firing on Sunday. Police opened fire on Hemanth when he tried to evade arrest in the Atmakur forest area in Anantapur district. Hemanth, 21, was admitted to a hospital in Anantapur town. The details of his condition were not immediately known. Police have maintained tight security at the hospital. According to police, the accused tried to escape when a police team tried to arrest him. The police team had reached the area following information about his presence there. Police personnel reportedly opened fire in the air to make the accused surrender. When he tried to escape, the team opened fire on him. The police team reportedly opened about six rounds to catch the accused. Hemanth had attacked the girl at Zilla Parishad High School in Rapthadu, Anantapur district on Saturday. The accused is a relative of the girl and attacked her after she spurned his proposal. The girl was critically injured in the attack and was shifted to a hospital in Bengaluru, where she is undergoing treatment. According to doctors, the next 48 hours will be crucial for the victim. Andhra Pradesh Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh on Sunday visited Bengaluru and spoke with doctors at Manipal Hospital to review the health condition of the girl and ongoing treatment. The accused, who was later identified as Hemanth, is a close relative of the victim. He is reported to be still at large. According to an official release here, Lokesh said the incident occurred around 10 a.m. when an individual entered the school premises carrying a chainsaw and attacked the student. Upon receiving information, he immediately alerted the police and district health authorities. The girl was initially shifted to a government hospital, where doctors worked for nearly eight hours to stabilise her condition. Once she was fit to be transferred, she was moved to Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru. Doctors immediately initiated treatment and performed surgery lasting nearly 12 hours before shifting her to the ICU. Lokesh said the next 48 hours would be critical and appealed to people across Andhra Pradesh to pray for the girl's recovery. Calling her our daughter, he said she needed everyone's support and prayers during this difficult time.
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Sting op row: Evidence found of mobile phone exchange at Kumaraswamy's home, says Bengaluru CP
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 1 (IANS) In a major twist, Commissioner of Police, Bengaluru City, Seemanth Kumar Singh, said on Sunday that investigators have found evidence suggesting that a mobile phone was exchanged at the residence of Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy in connection with the alleged sting operation case. The statement has assumed significance amid Union Minister Kumaraswamy stating earlier that the Congress-led government in Karnataka is conspiring to arrest him under false charges in connection with the sting operation row. The development is likely to trigger major controversy in the state. Calling it a major development in the investigation, the Police Commissioner said that one Ritesh Pandey had stayed at the address of Kumaraswamy and that a video was uploaded on the instructions of Prajwal Prasad. He said financial transactions had also taken place between Ritesh and Prajwal Prasad, adding that the role of other individuals in the case would become clear following further investigation and the arrest of Prajwal Prasad. Videos were uploaded using a mobile phone purchased by Prajwal Prasad. The video was uploaded through a person called Ritesh Pandey. We are investigating who instructed him to upload it, Singh said. The Police Commissioner said evidence had been found to support the claim that a mobile phone was exchanged at Kumaraswamy's residence. He added that investigators had also obtained CCTV footage from the shop where the mobile phone was purchased. Further mahazar procedures will be conducted. The investigation is still at a crucial stage, and it would not be appropriate to reveal more details at this point, he said. Singh said Prajwal Prasad was currently absconding and a search was underway to trace him. Another person, Vinod Sharma, was also absconding, and police were searching for both individuals. We will investigate the truthfulness of the statement made by Ritesh Pandey. We are also examining whether the events took place as claimed by Kumaraswamy and under whose instructions the alleged acts were carried out. At this stage, only this much can be disclosed. Further details will emerge after the investigation, Singh said. According to the police, Prajwal Prasad had worked as the Public Relations Officer of Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy. During questioning, Ritesh Pandey allegedly revealed that the mobile phone had been handed over at Kumaraswamy's residence. With Prajwal Prasad currently absconding, police have intensified efforts to trace him. The alleged handing over or exchange of the mobile phone at Kumaraswamy's residence has emerged during the investigation, and further action, including a possible examination of the Union Minister's residence, could depend on the outcome of Prajwal Prasad's questioning and further investigation. It may be noted that the Bengaluru City Police declared the viral sting operation video targeting former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to be a fabricated and deliberately constructed narrative. In late September and October 2026, a purported sting operation video/honey-trap claim surfaced on social media platforms (such as YouTube and X) and was briefly aired or discussed by some local channels. It alleged sexual abuse and involved events traced back to or framed around older timelines. The Bengaluru Central Crime Branch (CCB) and Bengaluru City Police investigated the matter, recovering the mobile phone used to upload the content and tracing leads to Delhi. Police officially stated that the video and its allegations are false, concocted, and part of a deliberately constructed narrative. Siddaramaiah filed a police complaint on October 6, 2026, and secured an ex parte ad-interim injunction from a Bengaluru court blocking 42 media organisations and platforms from publishing or broadcasting the material. The Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) expelled former party general secretary Kripa Alva for six years after her name surfaced in connection with the video and she failed to respond to a show-cause notice. Kumaraswamy had alleged internal party conspiracies within the Congress.
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Karnataka to provide 7 pc quota in professional education for rural govt school students
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Nov 1 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday announced that students who have studied in government schools in rural areas will be provided seven per cent reservation in professional education, including engineering and medical courses, while expressing confidence that the Congress-led protest scheduled in Delhi to protect voting rights would be successful. Every voter's right must be protected, and it is the responsibility of all of us, Shivakumar said while responding to questions from the media at his Sadashivanagar residence and near the Bhuvaneshwari Devi statue at the Vidhana Soudha here. Addressing the 71st Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations at Kanteerava Stadium, the Chief Minister added that the reservation was intended to provide greater opportunities for rural government school students to pursue professional education. The state government was transforming schools at the panchayat level to match the standards of urban schools. Orders had already been issued for the recruitment of 15,000 teachers, while 25,498 bilingual schools had been started across Karnataka. Science laboratories had also been established in 250 government schools, Shivakumar said. Skill-based education had been introduced from Class 6, while artificial intelligence training would be provided to students from Class 6 onwards and continued up to Class 12. The state government was also utilising Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for the development of government schools and upgrading Karnataka public schools, he added. Shivakumar said that Kannada should not remain merely an official language but become the language of people's hearts. Children must first learn Kannada and use it in their daily lives, even as they prepare to compete globally. Language has no boundaries. In the digital age, we can use all languages on mobile phones. Amid competition between languages, Kannada must grow. If we love our language, it will protect us, Shivakumar added. He urged students to develop interests in sports, arts and literature alongside academics. Highlighting the state government's initiatives for sportspersons, Shivakumar said Karnataka athletes had won eight medals at the Asian Games. The state government had announced cash incentives of Rs 1 crore for gold medallists, Rs 75 lakh for silver medallists and Rs 50 lakh for bronze medallists. Athletes who participated in the Asian Games were given Rs 5 lakh each, while those preparing for the Paralympics were being provided Rs 10 lakh each. The state government had also introduced two per cent reservation for sportspersons in government jobs and three per cent in the Forest and Police departments, the Chief Minister added. On youth development, Shivakumar said the state government planned to establish 10,000 Bharat Jodo youth associations at the panchayat and ward levels, involving young people aged between 16 and 35 years. Each association would receive an annual grant of Rs 10 lakh to encourage talent in sports, arts and culture and develop leadership qualities. He added that orders had been issued to fill 72,000 government vacancies and 66,000 jobs had been created. The Skill Development Department had also introduced the Udyoga Sethu platform to connect job seekers with private-sector employment opportunities. Around 100 ITIs had entered into agreements with leading industries. Defending the recent Rs 8 per litre increase in milk prices, Shivakumar said farmers were facing difficulties due to drought conditions and the increase was intended to support their livelihoods. Of the additional amount, Rs 7 would go to farmers, while the remaining Rs 1 would be allocated to milk unions and societies. The decision would benefit around 11 lakh farming families, he added. He also outlined several agricultural initiatives, including the distribution of crop loans worth Rs 30,000 crore to 38 lakh farmers, crop insurance coverage for 37.32 lakh farmers and the distribution of agricultural equipment to 3.41 lakh farmers. The state government was also implementing drip irrigation projects worth Rs 2,825 crore and constructing 32,138 farm ponds at a cost of Rs 363 crore. Drone- and satellite-based crop surveys would be undertaken across 1,000 square kilometres at a cost of Rs 3.32 crore, Shivakumar said. The Chief Minister also announced that the state government was planning to support Kannada-medium aided schools established after 1995 after discussions with the Finance Department. Other initiatives included the Neagilu Yogi scheme to provide tractor-based ploughing facilities for small farmers owning up to three acres, distribution of five lakh housing sites, the Bhugyaranti initiative to strengthen property ownership records and the Teak Siri scheme to improve farmers' income. Responding to questions about the Congress-led protest in Delhi, Shivakumar said that voting rights were equivalent to the right to live and alleged that the names of lakhs of voters had been systematically deleted from electoral rolls. Every citizen must be ensured the right to vote. The party fighting to protect democracy is committed to safeguarding the rights of every voter. The protest being organised in Delhi will be successful. Protecting every voter's right is the responsibility of all of us, he added. He also alleged that lakhs of voters' names had been deliberately removed from electoral rolls in Karnataka and said the party's fight against the alleged injustice would continue. Recalling his school days, Shivakumar said the participation of children in the Rajyotsava celebrations reminded him of his own childhood, when he took part in school processions, cultural programmes and played the bass drum. He encouraged students to work hard and aspire to occupy responsible positions in society.
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Making in Bengaluru: Bullet train design ready, may hit tracks by May 2027
IFL 2026/27: Uzziel Budus late header hands Dempo SC dramatic win over FC Bengaluru United
Digital Desk | Margao (Goa), Nov 1 (IANS) Uzziel Budus stoppage-time header helped Dempo Sports Club start their Indian Football League (IFL) 202627 campaign on a winning note, securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over FC Bengaluru United at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Sunday. Ghanaian defender Uzziel Yaw Asomaning Budu struck in the eighth minute of second-half stoppage time to break the deadlock and hand the hosts all three points. Billed as a classic David-versus-Goliath clash between a youthful FC Bengaluru United outfit and the seasoned campaigners of Dempo, the contest looked destined to end in a goalless stalemate as the visitors defended resolutely for large periods of the match. However, Bengaluru switched off in the final 10 minutes and were punished in the dying moments when stopper-back Budu rose highest from a corner kick in the final minute of added time to glance home the winner in front of the home fans. The game began on a scrappy note as both teams took time to settle on a slow pitch. Dempo slowly found their stride as the contest moved into the second quarter, stringing passes together and establishing a firm hold on ball possession. Operating down the left flank, Saiesh Bagkar produced a couple of probing runs for the Goan side as he looked to link up with forwards Cledson Carvalho Dasilva and captain Richmond Kwasi Owusu. However, his efforts did not produce any real openings to trouble a well-organised Bengaluru defence marshalled by Daniel, Abdul Hannan, and goalkeeper Manjunath Hirekurbar. Despite Dempos territorial dominance, FC Bengaluru United carved out their first chance of the evening from a corner kick in the 27th minute, though the resulting header was not on target. The visitors slowly found their rhythm as the match moved into the third quarter past the half-hour mark, with captain Ribhav Sardesai and Lalramdinsanga Ralte working tirelessly in midfield to keep their shape. Dempo continued to dominate the ball for the remainder of the opening period, commanding 70 per cent possession and producing close to 250 passes. While the hosts controlled possession well, they lacked intensity and penetration in the final third against a tight Bengaluru rearguard that kept compact numbers at the back, sending the two sides into the half-time break deadlocked at 0-0. The match resumed at a much faster pace in the second half, with FC Bengaluru United showing greater attacking intent on the transition. The visitors came agonisingly close to taking the lead when Russian forward Marat Tareck made a fine run in behind the Dempo backline of Budu, Athul Unnikrishnan, and Pruthvesh Pednekar with only the goalkeeper in sight. However, a heavy touch from the Russian forward at the crucial moment allowed Dempo goalkeeper Subhajit Bhattacharjee to pounce swiftly on the ball and smother the danger without any harm. Dempo responded at the other end and won a corner kick of their own, from which defender Athul Unnikrishnan rose to meet the delivery, only to send his header off target. The intensity subsequently dropped from both sides as the game moved into the second quarter of the half, with the scoreline remaining unchanged right through to the final hydration break. Although FC Bengaluru United were the better side for large spells of the second half, they lost concentration in the closing 10 minutes as Dempo pushed forward in search of a late breakthrough. In the 80th minute, Dempo carved out their best opportunity from open play when skipper Richmond Owusu delivered a spot-on pass to find Saiesh Bagkar inside the penalty box, only for his goal-bound shot to be bravely blocked by the Bengaluru defence. With eight minutes of added time indicated, that missed chance initially appeared anticlimactic for the hosts, and for long moments it looked as though Bengaluru would return home with a well-earned point. However, a moment of brilliance in the 90+8th minute changed everything. Winning a corner in the final minute of the match, Dempo whipped a delivery into the box where stopper-back Budu timed his jump to perfection to glance a precise header into the second post past Hirekurbar. In the end, Uzziel Budus last-gasp header proved decisive as Dempo Sports Club capitalised on FC Bengaluru Uniteds late lapse to seal a hard-fought 1-0 victory and open their home campaign with all three points.
Karnataka govt issues final notification to acquire 1,895 acres for Bidadi township
Ashwini Vaishnaw Shares Sneak Peak Into India's First Bullet Train
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has shared a first look at India's first bullet trainset, currently being manufactured at BEML's Aditya plant in Bengaluru. The minister posted a video on X, inviting viewers to turn up the volume as the country's high-speed rail project takes shape. The trainset is part of India's push to introduce high-speed rail services, with the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor being developed as the country's first bullet train route.
Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express flagged off by Railway Minister
The overnight service will connect Bengaluru with Mumbai via Anantapur, Raichur, Kalaburagi, Solapur and Pune, improving connectivity across three States
Digi Yatra International Trials Begin At 7 Airports
The trials are being conducted at Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, Mumbai, Chennai and Amritsar airports.
Ashwini Vaishnaw Flags Off Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper, Showcases 'Make In India' Push
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper train on Karnataka Rajyotsava, highlighting India's growing rail manufacturing capabilities under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. Emphasising upgraded designs, expanding global exports and rapid progress in high-speed rail technology, Vaishnaw said the project reflects India's journey towards world-class railway infrastructure.
Avarekai cultivation in Kolar district drops by 70% amid rainfall deficit
The decline is attributed to inadequate rainfall, depleting groundwater levels and dry weather conditions, which have discouraged farmers from taking up sowing
Andhra girl on ventilator support, may require more surgeries: Bengaluru hospital
114 boxes of surgical threads, 7m-long cut: 14-yr-old girl critical but stable in Bengaluru hospital
India's first indigenously designed bullet train undergoes rigorous structural testing at BEML's Bengaluru facility as Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspects the manufacturing process.
Bengaluru police arrest one suspect in sting operation case
The News Mill
Bengaluru: Man dies after loan recovery agents knock him off moving motorcycle in Nelamangala
Accusing the recovery agents of being directly responsible for her husbands death, Lalitha and other family members demanded action against those involved.
Tumakuru police arrest Madhya Pradesh-based Dhar gang member, recover valuables worth 23 lakh
The theft took place on September 17, 2026, when a KSRTC Airavat bus was stopped near a hotel within the limits of the Kallambella police station for breakfast at around 7 am.
Tigers, leopards, and bears to be brought to Kurumbapatti zoological park by March 2027
The move is part of the Forest Departments efforts to upgrade the park into medium category; In July, the park brought four black bucks, four Nilgai, and golden jackals from BannerughattaBiological Park in Bengaluru
Narola, Alva emerge champions as Indian Racing Festival concludes BIC leg
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Aryan Narola of Goa Aces JA Racing clinched a double victory in the F4 Indian Championship, while Ruhaan Alva of Kichcha's Kings Bengaluru won the second Indian Racing League (IRL) race as the Indian Racing Festival concluded its two-day event at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) in Greater Noida on Sunday. Narola dominated both F4 races on Sunday to emerge as the standout performer of the weekend, while Alva secured a crucial victory in a closely contested IRL race. The two-day racing event, held on October 31 and November 1, featured three races on the final day following an action-packed opening day. In the first F4 race on Sunday, Swarnav Das initially took the lead before Narola overtook him on the second lap to move to the front. South African racer Luviwe Sambudla of Goa Aces JA Racing also mounted a strong challenge, passing Das and putting Narola under pressure in the battle for the lead. However, Sambudla's race came to an end due to engine problems with a couple of laps remaining. Narola maintained his advantage to take the victory, while Aris Kyriakou finished second and South African Ntiyiso Mabunda of Speed Demons Delhi secured third place. Narola continued his impressive run in the second F4 race, leading from the start to register another victory. Arjun Chheda challenged him for the top position, while Mabunda also remained in contention. Narola held his nerve under pressure to complete a double, with Chheda finishing second and Mabunda taking third place. The second IRL race also witnessed an intense battle, with Alva eventually taking the top spot. Mohamed Ryan of Hyderabad Blackbirds finished second, while Malaysian driver Alister Yoong of Speed Demons Delhi secured third place. Shane Chanderia had initially moved ahead of Alva and led the race for several laps. However, car trouble forced him to retire from the contest, allowing Alva to capitalise on the situation and secure the victory. Earlier on Saturday, British driver Raoul Hyman of Goa Aces JA Racing won the opening IRL race, while Mabunda claimed victory in the first F4 contest. Hyman dominated the IRL race, clocking 27 minutes and 40.759 seconds to take the chequered flag. After initially trailing Emil Heyerdahl of Kichcha's Kings Bengaluru, Hyman overtook him to take the lead and maintained his advantage until the finish. Sai Shiva Sankaran of Kolkata Royal Tigers finished second in 27:55.806, narrowly ahead of teammate Jemma Moore, who clocked 27:56.070 to secure third place. In the opening F4 race, Mabunda registered a victory in 32:46.842 after a closely fought contest with fellow South African Sambudla. Narola, who started third on the grid, initially moved into the lead before Mabunda fought back to reclaim the top position.
Sidda sting phone changed hands at HDK residence: Cops
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh revealed that the mobile phone allegedly used in a sting operation targeting former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was purchased in New Delhi and handed over at Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy's official residence. The statement came from arrested accused Ritesh Pandey, who, along with Vinod Sharma, bought the phone and gave it to Prajwal Prasad. Police are investigating financial transactions and have issued notices to Sharma and Prasad, who are currently absconding.
Civil Supplies officials seize 71 tonnes PDS rice near Katpadi
Investigations found that the consignment was proceeding to Chennai Port from a private rice mill on the outskirts of Bengaluru where the PDS rice was loaded for shipment
Gold prices in Delhi fell Rs 3,200 to a 10-month low of Rs 1.42 lakh per 10 grams, while silver declined Rs 4,200 per kg, tracking a sharp global sell-off amid inflation and interest rate concerns. Gold of 99.9% purity was quoted at Rs 1,42,000 per 10 grams in Delhi, compared with the previous close, while silver declined to Rs 1,86,000 per kg.
Digital Desk | Chennai, Nov 1 (IANS) In what turned out to be the race of the weekend, Chiranth Vishwanath, the 19-year-old from Bengaluru, held off his archrival and TVS Racing teammate, Sarthak Chavan of Pune, to complete a superb double in the premier Super Sport 301-400cc Open class as the third round of the Indian National Racing Challenge 2W 2026 concluded at the Madras International Circuit here on Sunday. The six-lap race, delayed by about 30 minutes following sharp showers in the afternoon, provided high drama and thrills as the countrys top riders battled it out. For a second day in succession, Chiranth held off Chavan to claim a memorable victory. Chiranth, winner of Race-1 on Saturday with a record lap time, Sarthak, and their younger teammate Rakshith Dave took turns to lead the pack. In fact, Rakshith looked set for a win when he led comfortably before almost slipping when negotiating a puddle of water, which cost him three spots, and he eventually finished fourth behind Thiruvallurs Mohamed Mikail (MadRabbit Racing). Up ahead, leader Sarthak and Chiranth were locked in a titanic fight. The decisive moment came in the closing stages when Chiranth roared past Sarthak, who had a 'moment' and lost position. The Bengaluru rider went on to register his second win of the weekend while Sarthak again had to be content with a P2 finish. Earlier, Bengalurus 19-year-old Savion Sabu delivered another strong performance as he led a maiden podium sweep for the MadRabbit Racing team besides achieving a double this weekend in the Pro-Stock 200cc Open class. Savion managed to stave off close attention from teammates Mohamed Mikail (Thiruvallur) and AS James (Bengaluru). Coimbatores Senthil Kumar (Rockers Racing) and Anandhu KK from Chennai (Veedol C2 Racing) completed a double apiece in the Super Stock 301-400cc Open and Super Stock 165cc Intermediate classes, respectively. Local challenger Venugopalan S. (Motul Sparks Racing) scored his first win in the extremely competitive Stock 301-400cc Novice class. The podium spots were up for grabs until the last lap when Venugopalan surged ahead, with Trichys Kavicholaiarasan (Speed Up Racing) and Shyam Sundar (M3 Torque Motorsports) finishing behind him in that order. Pothu Vignesh from Mancherial, Telangana, notched his third win in six starts to finish second and maintained his top position in the points tally in the Experts category. Bengalurus Dev Agastya Reddy finished second, ahead of Godwin Clarence from Coimbatore. The Indian National Racing Challenge 2W 2026 will take a two-month break and resume in January 2027. The results (Provisional all 6 laps unless mentioned): Super Sport 301-400cc Open (Race-2): 1. Chiranth Vishwanath (Bengaluru, Petronas TVS Racing) (11min, 09.613sec); 2. Sarthak Chavan (Pune, Petronas TVS Racing) (11:09.870); 3. Mohamed Mikail (Thiruvallur, MadRabbit Racing) (11:11.383). Pro-Stock 200cc Open (Race-2): 1. Savion Sabu (Bengaluru, MadRabbit Racing) (11:51.669); 2. Mohamed Mikail (Thiruvallur, MadRabbit Racing) (11:52.361); 3. AS James (Bengaluru, MadRabbit Racing) (11:54.026). Super Stock 301-400cc Open (Race-2): 1. Senthil Kumar (Coimbatore, Team RACR Castrol Power1) (11:28.204); 2. Abdul Basim RS (Chennai, Chandra LGE Racing) (11:28.544); 3. P Sri Harsha (Hyderabad, Motul Gusto Racing) (11:36.386). Super Stock 165cc Intermediate (Race-2): 1. Anandhu KK (Chennai, Veedol C2 Racing) (12:42.998); 2. Ann Jennifer AS (Chennai, Motul Sparks Racing) (12:43.277); 3. Anand Kumar S (Chennai, Ipone Yakuza Racing) (12:51.912). Stock 301-400 Novice (Race-2): 1. Venugopalan S (Chennai, Motul Sparks Racing) (12:20.189); 2. Kavicholaiarasan (Trichy, Speed Up Racing) (12:23.133); 3. Shyam Sundar K (Chennai, M3 Torque Motorsports) (12:25.506). Stock 165cc Novice (Race-2) 3 laps: 1. Hari Haran R (Coimbatore, RACR Castrol Power 1) (06:36.460); 2. Akarsh Jangam (Vijayawada, MAI Racing) (06:36.616); 3. Faruk Ali Sohtun (East Khasi, Motul Sparks Racing) (06:37.309). Petronas TVS One-Make Championship: Expert (Apache RR 310) Race-2: 1. Rajender Beedani (Hyderabad) (11:32.870); 2. Hari Haran R (Coimbatore) (11:33.963); 3. AS James (Bengaluru) (11:39.270). Rookie (Apache RTR 200) Race-2: 1. Pothu Vignesh (Mancherial) (13:13.874); 2. Dev Agastya (Bengaluru) (13:14.006); 3. Godwin Clarence C (Coimbatore) (13:14.518).
Democracy murdered during municipal polls in Andhra, says Jagan
Digital Desk | Pulivendula (Andhra Pradesh), Nov 1 (IANS) YSR Congress Party president and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday alleged that democracy was murdered in broad daylight during the Municipal elections in Andhra Pradesh as TDP workers occupied polling booths, drove out YSRCP agents and resorted to widespread rigging with police support. He told IANS that YSRCP agents were not allowed in 70 out of the 80 polling booths in Pulivendula. In a democracy, if opposition party agents are not allowed to sit inside polling booths, who will identify the voters? No one will be there to identify them because YSRCP polling agents have either been forcibly removed from the booths or denied entry into the polling stations, he said. YS Jagan, who arrived in his home town of Pulivendula in YSR Kadapa district to cast his vote in municipal elections, sat on protest in front of the Returning Officers office, demanding a repoll. Is this democracy? Are we even functioning in a democratic system? asked Jagan, who was accompanied by the displaced agents of the party. He alleged that TDP workers occupied booths from as early as 4 a.m., intimidated voters and prevented YSRCP agents from entering polling stations. Chairperson candidate Prameelamma was attacked, polling agent Sunanda suffered a fractured hand, and voters arriving at polling centres were stopped, threatened and sent back after their voter slips were forcibly taken away. Bogus votes were cast even before genuine voters arrived, while police assisted TDP workers and carried out lathi-charges at several places. A YSRCP councillor candidate was forcibly taken away in a police jeep. The YSRCP chief said some journalists and cameramen, who were recording electoral irregularities, were attacked, while cameras and mobile phones were damaged. Even voters staging protests after being denied their right to vote were ignored. Similar conditions were prevailing in Kadapa, Jammalamadugu, Chittoor, Macherla, Chilakaluripet, Tadipatri, Madanapalle, Chimakurthy and Kuppam, he said. YS Jagan questioned Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, the State Election Commission, Collectors and SPs over the dangerous precedent being created. If the ruling party itself destroys the election process today, another party could use the same methods tomorrow, eventually making genuine elections impossible, he warned. He said Chandrababu had no moral right to continue as Chief Minister even for a day if democracy was reduced to such a mockery. Though nearly 1,000 police personnel were deployed in Pulivendula, hundreds of TDP workers were allowed to remain around polling booths without action. Despite repeated calls to the SP and Collector, no corrective steps were taken. YS Jagan also questioned compliance with Supreme Court directions on CCTV surveillance and asked how polling could be called transparent without live CCTV footage from polling stations. He said even his journey to Pulivendula was obstructed. Permission granted the previous day for his helicopter to land was withdrawn after the helicopter had already taken off from Bengaluru, with authorities insisting that he arrive only after 3 p.m. After Civil Aviation authorities objected to the cancellation of landing permission while the helicopter was already in the air, the landing was finally permitted. YS Jagan said democracy was in a dangerous condition when institutions meant to protect citizens themselves acted against them. He warned that when people lose faith in democratic institutions, extremist tendencies emerge. The YSRCP chief said the government should question why such measures were necessary if its administration enjoyed public confidence. Super Six and Super Seven promises had not been implemented, while the bonds distributed to people before the elections had become meaningless. Students were suffering without fee reimbursement; Vidya Deevena and Vasathi Deevena, employees, were dissatisfied over unfulfilled manifesto promises; women had lost the zero-interest scheme and farmers were struggling without remunerative prices. No section of society is happy with Chandrababu. That is why they are afraid of free elections and are trying to bulldoze the electoral process instead of facing the people, YS Jagan said. He called upon the NDA leadership and the Central Government to respond to the situation in Andhra Pradesh, saying they could not remain silent when an alliance partner was undermining the democratic electoral process.
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Bengaluru, Nov 1 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper train would be a game changer for rail connectivity between the two major cities, benefiting Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. Sharing Railway Ministry's post on the flagging off of the train on social media platform X, the Prime Minister said the new service marked another step towards improving rail connectivity, particularly from Bengaluru, a city known for its technology and innovation ecosystem. Another step towards better rail connectivity and that too from Bengaluru, the city of technology and innovation! he added. The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will be a game changer for connectivity between Bengaluru and Mumbai, the Prime Minister noted. PM Modi said the train would particularly benefit youngsters, IT professionals and students, while strengthening connectivity across the three states. Earlier, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that he, along with other dignitaries, flagged off the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper train. The new service is expected to provide passengers with an additional rail travel option between Bengaluru and Mumbai. Earlier on Sunday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai from Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) here on the occasion of Kannada Rajyotsava. Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna, Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi and H.D. Kumaraswamy, Minister of State Shobha Karandlaje, BJP MPs Tejasvi Surya, P.C. Mohan and C.N. Manjunath, and BJP Rajya Sabha members Lahar Singh Siroya and Jaggesh were present at the inaugural event. Ashwini Vaishnaw cheered and waved to people gathered at the railway station. The dignitaries also toured the newly introduced train, inspected its facilities and interacted with passengers. Speaking to the media, Vaishnaw congratulated the people of Karnataka and Bengaluru on the launch of the service on Kannada Rajyotsava. On the occasion of Kannada Rajyotsava, the Vande Bharat Sleeper service between Bengaluru and Mumbai is being launched. This is a very good train and will connect the technological capital Bengaluru with the financial capital Mumbai. This will be the third Vande Bharat service, he said.
Mumbai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper train flagged off
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the next Vande Bharat Sleeper train for Karnataka will originate from Bengaluru, connect several parts of North Karnataka towards Hubballi, and then proceed towards Pune and Mumbai
Lokesh vows stringent action after chainsaw attack on Class X student in Raptadu
HRD and IT Minister visits Gopika at Bengaluru hospital, assures family of full government support; says next 48 hours are critical; 20 counsellors deployed to help traumatised classmates
Businessman found dead in Durgam Cheruvu
PM Modi inaugurated the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat sleeper train, enhancing connectivity and benefiting travelers across multiple states. Modi Launches Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, Calling It a Game Changer for Connectivity
Karnataka students to experience village life with new programme
Bengaluru: In an effort to connect urban children with the agricultural roots of Karnataka, the state government has launched Gram Anubhava, an educational programme that will provide school students with first-hand experience of village life. The initiative was launched in Bengaluru on Kannada Rajyotsava Day in the presence of the Deputy Chief Minister and ministers. Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Railway Minister flags off Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express
Regular services will commence from November 2 in the Mumbai-Bengaluru direction
Andhra girl injured in chainsaw attack in classroom remains critical
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Nov 1 (IANS) The condition of a Class 10 girl student injured in the chainsaw attack by her relative at a school in Andhra Pradeshs Anantapur district on Saturday remained critical, doctors said. According to doctors, the next 48 hours will be crucial for the victim undergoing treatment at a hospital in Bengaluru. Andhra Pradesh Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh on Sunday visited Bengaluru and spoke with doctors at Manipal Hospital to review the health condition of the girl and ongoing treatment. The girl was injured in the attack at Zilla Parishad High School in Rapthadu in Anantapur district. The accused, who was later identified as Hemanth, is a close relative of the victim. He is reported to be still at large. According to an official release here, Lokesh said the incident occurred around 10 a.m. when an individual entered the school premises carrying a chainsaw and attacked the student. Upon receiving information, he immediately alerted the police and district health authorities. The girl was initially shifted to a government hospital, where doctors worked for nearly eight hours to stabilise her condition. Once she was fit to be transferred, she was moved to Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru. Doctors immediately initiated treatment and performed surgery lasting nearly 12 hours before shifting her to the ICU. Lokesh said the next 48 hours would be critical and appealed to people across Andhra Pradesh to pray for the girl's recovery. Calling her our daughter, he said she needed everyone's support and prayers during this difficult time. Assuring the family of complete government support, Lokesh said the incident was extremely unfortunate and should not be politicised. He emphasised that ensuring the girl's healthcare, continued treatment and subsequent rehabilitation was both the collective responsibility of the government and his personal responsibility. He acknowledged that the incident had highlighted the need to further strengthen existing safety systems and processes. Stating that the government was taking the matter very seriously and would not shy away from its responsibility, Lokesh assured that stronger preventive measures would be put in place to ensure that such incidents never recur in Andhra Pradesh. Issuing a stern warning against harassment and indecent behaviour towards women, Lokesh said anyone making inappropriate remarks or behaving indecently towards women in Andhra Pradesh would face severe consequences. He assured that strict action would be taken against everyone responsible for the Rapthadu school attack and that nobody involved would be spared.
IND vs NZ ODIs | 'He has got a great work ethic...': Jacob Duffy on Virat Kohli
Jacob Duffy spoke about the experience of sharing the dressing room with the Delhi-born cricketer in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Vaishnaw visits BEML facility building Indias first bullet train for Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor
Bharat Bullet Train is being developed for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail corridor, emphasizing indigenous technology. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed various production processes at BEML's Aditya manufacturing facility in Bengaluru. The train will offer advanced passenger amenities and adhere to stringent safety standards during its operation. It is designed to accommodate about 557 passengers, including special provisions for persons with disabilities.
Bengaluru Pune Could Be Among Next High-Speed Corridors: Vaishnaw
He announced that the Bengaluru-Mangaluru Vande Bharat Express would be introduced within the next few weeks, as electrification and testing on the route had been completed
The railway minister flagged off the 16-coach Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper train from SMVT Bengaluru on Sunday. The service is scheduled to arrive at CSMT Mumbai at 6.15 am on Monday. Regular runs begin on November 2 towards Mumbai and November 3 towards Bengaluru
Captain Chowta opposes proposal to revise timings of Gomateshwara Express
Railway Ministrys plan to postpone Mangaluru Junction-Yeshwantpur tri-weekly and weekly express departure timing from 7 am to 11.40 am severely affects passengers
After initially suffering financial setbacks with their cloud kitchen, Bengaluru couple Kushal Reddy and Chahak Jain ingeniously reimagined their business by converting a truck into a mobile kitchen. This creative pivot not only sparked public interest but also led to the rapid success of their food truck, Kried, amassing Rs 2 crore in revenue within a mere ten months.
Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express Launched: Check Timings, Stoppages and Service Details
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flags off the Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express. Check regular service dates, departure and arrival timings, and station stoppages.
Hyderabad businessman jumps to death in Durgam Cheruvu
Hyderabad: A 29-year-old businessman allegedly jumped to his death in Durgam Cheruvu Lake in Hyderabad on Saturday, October 31. The deceased was identified as A Sai Maheshwar, son of A Venkata Rama Manikya Rao, a resident of Miro Apartments, Nallagandla. Speaking to Siasat.com, Madhapur Sub Inspector Vimla said, Maheshwar jumped into the lake at 3:30 Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Railway Minister fags off Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express
Regular services will commence from November 2 in the Mumbai-Bengaluru direction.
Watch: Karnataka protesters join INDIA bloc's Delhi march with longest list of deleted voters
Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express flagged off
Bengaluru: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday, November 1, flagged off the inaugural run of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai, strengthening overnight rail connectivity between the two major metropolitan cities. Officials said the inaugural special train, comprising a 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper rake that departed from Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT), Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
The new Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper takes about 16 hours, saving 6 to 12 hours over Udyan, Chalukya, Coimbatore and other trains. A flight takes under two hours but costs Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 or more. The sleeper sits in the middle, with a 3AC fare near Rs 2,700 to Rs 3,000.
Jacob Duffy Reveals What Surprised Him Most About Virat Kohli At Royal Challengers Bengaluru
New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy was impressed by Virat Kohli's humility and work ethic during their stint together at Royal Challengers Bengaluru, saying the Indian batting great remained down-to-earth despite being a eligious figure back home.
'Will Be Awesome To Play Against Him': Duffy On Facing RCB Teammate Kohli
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy was full of praise for India veteran Virat Kohli as he looks ahead to face his Royal Challengers Bengaluru teammate during the upcoming ODI series between New Zealand and India, which gets underway on November 4. Duffy shared the dressing room with Kohli during the IPL 2026 and has also bowled to him in the nets. The New Zealand seamer was struck by how down to earth Kohli is despite being a superstar in India and approaching a eligious status in his nation. I got to see him (Kohli) yesterday. He was in the gym, obviously, so running into him there was cool, but he was awesome to me, Duffy said on Sunday during a media interaction. Obviously, for such a religious figure, I guess you almost say, in India - he's obviously a megastar over there - for him to be so down-to-earth and sort of welcome all of us overseas guys in RCB was pretty cool, so very appreciative of him for that. It'll be awesome to play against him now that I've sort of shared a changing room with him as well, he added. He further stated that he has had lots of discussions with Kohli around the tactics on the Indian grounds when he shared the RCB dressing room with him. He's got a great work ethic, Duffy said. Obviously, I bowled a lot to him in the nets because he was always the first batter and I was always the first bowler. We actually spent a lot of time facing each other in the nets, so that's quite cool. But also from there, he's seen a lot of me now too, so he'll have good preparation. I guess we talk a lot about fine details. We talk about certain wickets back in India. Certain wickets are quite different, so he talked a lot about the different lines and lengths on those kinds of wickets and how he adjusts and how he thinks I could be adjusting on those ones too. So little insights like that were quite important from him. The speedster further added that he likes ODI cricket and called the five-match ODI series against India a crucial series to prepare for the 2027 World Cup. Personally, I quite like ODI cricket, Duffy said. What I like about it is that up top, you get a little bit of the hard lengths with the swinging ball and stuff like that. Then you get a little bit of the hit and giggle near the end. We've also got the World Cup about this time next year in South Africa. That's pretty high on the priority list, I think. Growing up (watching the) 2015 World Cup, 2019 World Cup, those, to me, are the pinnacles of our game. Those are the major events that I grew up watching and strived for and wanted to be there for those. Personally, I quite like ODI cricket, Duffy said. What I like about it is that up top, you get a little bit of the hard lengths with the swinging ball and stuff like that. Then you get a little bit of the hit and giggle near the end. We've also got the World Cup about this time next year in South Africa. That's pretty high on the priority list, I think. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday flagged off the inaugural run of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai, strengthening overnight rail connectivity between the two major metropolitan cities. The Vande Bharat Sleeper rake having 16 coach departed from Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT), Bengaluru, is scheduled to reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Mumbai, at 6.15 am on Monday. Union Ministers Pralhad Joshi, H D Kumaraswamy, Ministers of State V Somanna and Shobha Karandlaje, Members of Parliament Tejasvi Surya, P C Mohan and C N Manjunath, among others were present.
Vaishnaw Flags Off Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat Sleeper Express
The service' scheduled stoppages are Anantapur, Guntakal, Raichur, Yadgir, Kalaburagi, Solapur, Pune and Kalyan
Jacob Duffy praises Virat Kohli's humility, work ethic ahead of India-New Zealand ODI series
Jacob Duffy expressed admiration for Virat Kohli's humility and work ethic after playing together at Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Duffy noted that Kohli made overseas players feel welcome despite his superstar status in India. The upcoming ODI series between India and New Zealand presents a valuable opportunity for Duffy to face Kohli again. Duffy acknowledged the importance of these matches for New Zealand's preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Belagavi turns red and yellow for Kannada Rajyotsava celebrations
Belagavi: The border city of Belagavi witnessed a grand display of Kannada pride as thousands of people gathered at Rani Chennamma Circle to welcome the 71st Kannada Rajyotsava at midnight on November 1. Unlike other parts of Karnataka, where celebrations generally begin in the morning, Belagavi traditionally marks the occasion at midnight. This year, too, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Addanda Cariappa Smeared With Ink in Bengaluru
Following the incident, both the group that staged a protest against the play and the playwright filed separate complaints at the Banashankari police station
Bengaluru-Mumbai Vande Bharat launch today
Gold, silver prices today, 1 November: Check retail price of 18K, 22K and 24K gold and 999 Fine silver on Sunday in your cities Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
How to say how are you? in your hyper-local lingo?
KDA Chairman Purushottama Bilimale says there are more than two lakh hyperlocal words that are used in everyday conversations but not documented
On Karnataka Rajyotsava, a digital archive of 220 documentaries captures States many worlds
The documentaries, spanning 1982 to 2026, capture 117 places across 94 hours of viewing and have been catalogued by regions and themes such as communities, music and art, livelihoods, politics and protest, and so on.
Anantapur School Attack: Injured Student Gets Advanced Treatment
Two Class 10 students were attacked with a chainsaw at a government school in Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district. One student, severely injured with multiple fractures and a severed hand, has been airlifted to Bengaluru for advanced treatment, with the state government bearing expenses. The second student was injured while trying to protect her classmate. The attacker remains untraceable, and the Chief Minister has ordered a swift hunt and harshest legal punishment.
Kannada gothilla? Not the flex it once was!
Students set example of conservation at park clean-up drives in Bengaluru
2 foreigners die of suspected electrocution in Bengaluru pool
The deceased were identified as Alexander Maximilian Theiss (57), a German national working as a crew member with Lufthansa, and Juraj Horvat (45), a project manager with IBM, they said.
HMT brings out new Kannadiga watch collection for Karnataka
