Akasa Air enters Rajasthan, direct flights connecting Jaipur with Mumbai, Bengaluru from Sunday
The airline will also begin operations from Udaipur on October 15 as part of its plans to expand connectivity in the state
Bengaluru police detain man for extorting money from passengers at Kempegowda International Airport
North Bengaluru's Luxury Housing Market Strengthens as Century Real Estate Unveils The Astoria
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 10: As Bengaluru expands, its growth is increasingly being shaped by multiple urban centres where workplaces, homes and everyday experiences can exist closer together. North Bengaluru is emerging as one such centre, supported by airport-led development, expanding commercial activity, NH-44 connectivity, upcoming Metro infrastructure and a growing ecosystem of schools, healthcare, hospitality and recreation.
Student Protesters Detained En Route to EC Office In Bengaluru
Members of student organisations were detained on Saturday when they attempted to march towards the Election Commission office here, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Bengaluru: Students detained while marching to EC office
Bengaluru: Members of student organisations were detained on Saturday, October 10, when they attempted to march towards the Election Commission office here, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the SIR of electoral rolls. The protesters gathered at Freedom Park here and raised slogans demanding the scrapping of the 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 .
Tribal Affairs Ministry says 25 lakh titles distributed under Forest Rights Act
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Oct 10 (IANS) As many as 25 lakh titles have been distributed out of the 54 lakh claims received till August 31 under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA), an official said on Saturday. Speaking at the Second Regional Review Conference on implementation of FRA in Kolkata, Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA), said on Friday that out of over 54 lakh claims received nationally, about 11 lakh claims still remain pending at different stages. The official said over 18 lakh claims have been rejected, noting that Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Assam account for substantial pendency concentrated in particular districts, according to a statement. He highlighted that the Regional Conference focuses on the following key priorities such as timely disposal of pending claims and review of rejected claims in accordance with the Act and Rules, reconciliation of FRA data, digitisation of FRA case records, incorporation of recognised rights into revenue and forest records, acceleration of recognition of Community Forest Resource Rights and Habitat Rights recognition for PVTGs. The Conference brought together senior functionaries of the Tribal Welfare, Revenue and Forest Departments and Tribal Research Institutes of eight States, namely West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, said the statement. Additionally, senior officials of Andhra Pradesh were invited to share the best practices the State has undertaken on digitisation, integration of FRA titles into government records, taking up proactive measures on convergence of livelihood schemes with FRA titleholders and providing credit facilities to the right holders, said the statement. District officials- Collectors, Sub-Collectors and ITDP/ITDA Project Officers- from districts having a large pendency of FRA claims also attended to review the status of implementation and deliberate on a coordinated way forward. The Conference follows the First Regional Review Conference held in Bengaluru on September 10 for the Southern States. Secretary, MoTA, said that the FRA places the rights, dignity and aspirations of forest-dwelling communities at the heart of inclusive and sustainable development. She emphasised that recognised rights must be incorporated into Revenue and Forest records with accurate maps and that convergence with programmes for productive land use, housing and livelihoods must become a regular part of implementation. The Director, FRA, MoTA, presented the national scenario, including pendency in high-pendency States and priority districts. Her presentation also covered the importance of incorporating the Record of Forest Rights into revenue and forest records in line with the Ministrys advisory of June 24, 2026 and Habitat Rights under the Ministrys guidelines of January 5, 2026.
Indias office sector sees net absorption surge by 26 pc in July-Sep
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 10 (IANS) Indias office market saw strong momentum in Q3 2026 (July-September), with net absorption across the top eight cities reaching 14.1 million square feet (MSF) up 26 per cent quarter-on-quarter, a report said on Saturday. The report from Cushman & Wakefield said the growth was supported by healthy occupier demand and a significant increase in new office completions during the quarter. Net absorption moderated by 18 per cent on a year-on-year basis against a strong Q3 2025 base, which saw the highest quarterly absorption of the year. Hyderabad with 4.1 million sq ft (MSF) of absorption and Bengaluru with 4 MSF led absorption during the quarter. Hyderabad accounted for 29 per cent of the pan-India total and marked its highest quarterly level since Q4 2021. Net absorption across the top eight cities stood at 36.7 MSF on a year-to-date (YTD) basis. Gross Leasing Volume (GLV) across the top eight cities stood at nearly 22 MSF in Q3 2026, registering a 3 per cent quarterly increase. Bengaluru continued to lead leasing activity with 5.2 million sq ft, accounting for 24 per cent of the quarterly volume followed by Hyderabad at 4.2 million sq ft, Mumbai at 3.9 MSF and Delhi NCR at 3.8 MSF. Year to date (YTD) leasing in 2026 reached 64.6 MSF, marking the highest-ever volume recorded during the first nine months of any year. Leasing during the first nine months has already reached approximately 74 per cent of the full-year 2025 volume. Fresh leasing continued to account for the bulk of YTD activity at nearly 75 per cent. Meanwhile, the share of pre-commitments increased to nearly 12 per cent, reflecting occupiers focus on securing quality office space ahead of project completions. Global Capability Centres (GCCs) remained a key driver of office demand, leasing 9.1 MSF in Q3 2026 and accounting for 42 per cent of total quarterly GLV. Bengaluru and Pune saw particularly strong GCC concentration, with the segment contributing approximately 65 per cent of leasing activity in each market. From a sectoral perspective, BFSI emerged as the largest demand driver in Q3 2026, accounting for 24 per cent of total leasing activity, followed by IT-BPM at 22 per cent. GCCs have been pivotal to this momentum, as global enterprises continue to expand both their presence and capabilities in India. This demand is underpinned by a deep talent pool, cost competitiveness and Indias growing importance within global business strategies, said Anshul Jain, Chief Executive India, SEA, MEA & APAC Office and Retail, Cushman & Wakefield. As occupiers continue to take a longer-term view of their portfolios, we remain confident in the sustained growth trajectory of Indias office market, he said.
Builder denied disabled parking to Rs 1.03 crore flat buyer; RERA orders relief
In one such case, a woman and her family bought a 3BHK ( 3 Bedrooms, Hall, Kitchen) from a builder in Bengaluru for Rs 1.03 crore. The builder promised two specially enabled parking spaces, and it was supposedly one of the property's key attractions. The builder's brochure and terms clearly referred to these parking facilities. However, he failed to deliver on that commitment.
#THtalksBengaluru | N.A. Haris and the BDAs vision for Bengaluru
A package of stories featuring Mr. Hariss responses to readers questions on the environmental impact of the short tunnel project, recurring civic issues at layouts developed by the BDA, and the progress of long-pending traffic corridors to decongest the city.
Anti-CEC protest in Bengaluru: AISA students detained at Freedom Park before march
The protesters were planning to march to the office of the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer, located a few hundred metres from Freedom Park, but were detained by Bengaluru Police even before they could begin their peaceful protest.
Centre denies seeking land from states for three high-speed rail corridors
Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy on Saturday said alignment studies for three proposed high-speed rail corridors linked to Hyderabad are currently underway and that the Centre has not sent any land acquisition requisitions to the concerned state governments. Any land acquisition being carried out for the same at this juncture is illegal, he said in a statement. Reddy's clarification came amid land acquisition efforts by the Telangana government for the rail corridor and other projects which faced resistance from farmers on Hyderabad outskirts. Reddy said he discussed the proposed HyderabadChennai, HyderabadBengaluru and HyderabadPune High-Speed Rail corridors with Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The railway minister clarified that no land acquisition requisition has been sent to the respective state governments and that any land acquisition being carried out in the name of High-Speed Rail at this stage is illegal, he said. He quoted the railways minister as saying that .
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy says no requisition has been sent to State governments for the Hyderabad-Chennai, Hyderabad-Bengaluru and Hyderabad-Pune corridors, as alignment studies remain under way
'Don't Want Impact Player Rule To Be Taken Out This Season': Karthik Wants It To Stay In IPL 2027
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru's batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik wants the Impact Player rule to stay intact at least for the upcoming IPL 2027, calling that scrapping the contentious rule in the middle of an IPL cycle would not make sense. Karthik, although, criticised the rule for educing the chances for India to produce all-rounders, but batted for the rule to stay in IPL 2027. Speaking to Cricbuzz, he stated that the teams have built their squads with the impact player rule in their minds, highlighting that taking it away in the middle of an IPL cycle would not be sensible. The rule came ahead of IPL 2023 and in the middle of an IPL cycle after the mega auctions were completed for IPL 2022. The current IPL cycle runs till 2027 after the mega auction took place in 2025. When it first came on (Impact Player rule), it was very good because there were high-scoring games and there were a lot of teams that were almost chasing it down. But strangely, this last season, there were not too many close games. It just felt like one team scored a lot, and another team ended up chasing it down. And if you look at how the impact player rule has impacted the IPL, it was quite positive at the start. But slowly but steadily, it started losing the charm and the reason why it was there, Karthik told Cricbuzz. He highlighted that the rule has made an impact on India not being able to produce many all-rounders. It helped make the game more high-scoring than what it was. But it definitely decreased the chances of India as a cricketing country producing all-rounders, he said before wanting the rule to stay this season. But what I wouldn't want is it to be scrapped for this season because teams have been picked with having an impact player in mind. So it makes a lot of sense. When you pick a team, you're picking a team based on 12 players that you're going to play. Now suddenly if you make it 11, there could be a team which is obviously not as strong as a 12 but much better as an 11, and it is an unfair advantage, and it's something that they could do away with after the end of this season. But in general, I do feel it was quite good at the start, but right now it's losing the relevance and importance that it probably provided for the fans and for the players as well, he added. Karthik further stated that a rule should be brought before the start of the cycle and scrapped after the cycle ends, consolidating his claim of why he wants the rule to stay until 2027, which will also bring curtains to the three-year cycle. But in general, I do feel it was quite good at the start, but right now it's losing the relevance and importance that it probably provided for the fans and for the players as well, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
SWR to go live with AC traction from end-to-end on Bengaluru-Mangaluru sector soon
To start with, the Zone will test one train on AC traction from end-to-end for about two weeks and extend to other trains gradally
22, 24 carat Gold prices up across metro cities on October 10
Centre Denies Requesting Land Acquisition from States for 3 High-speed Rail Corridors
Reddy said he discussed the proposed HyderabadChennai, HyderabadBengaluru and HyderabadPune High-Speed Rail corridors with Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 10 (IANS) A decision on shifting former JD(S) MP, Prajwal Revanna, who is serving a life sentence in a rape case, from Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in Bengaluru to Hindalga Jail in Belagavi, is likely to be taken on Saturday, following the recovery of a mobile phone and a pen drive from his cell. Director General of Police (DGP) of the Department of Prisons and Correctional Services, Alok Kumar, has ordered the transfer of Prajwal Revanna, who is the grandson of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and nephew of Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, following the controversy over the recovery of the prohibited electronic devices. However, the shifting is understood to have been deferred temporarily, with the department yet to finalise arrangements for the transfer. Police said that the absence of a senior police officer to monitor the movement of the high-profile convict, following the recent arrest of the Belagavi Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG), is among the reasons for the delay. The transfer may be taken up once another officer is assigned responsibility for overseeing the process. It can be noted that Belagavi Rane DIG Somashekar was arrested on charges of allegedly misusing convict's wife and releasing him after creating fake Supreme Court order. Another consideration is that Revanna is produced before the court three times a week. His transfer to Belagavi could affect the arrangements for his court appearances. Meanwhile, his counsels are reportedly preparing to approach the court challenging the proposed transfer, citing alleged violations of prison rules and other procedural issues. The proposed transfer follows the recovery of a mobile phone and a pen drive from the cell occupied by Revanna at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. The discovery triggered a major controversy over security lapses at the Bengaluru prison and prompted the prison department to order an investigation. On August 11, 2026, the Central Crime Branch (CCB) conducted a raid at the prison under the leadership of Deputy Commissioners of Police Haribabu and Imam Qasim. During the operation, a mobile phone was reportedly recovered from Revanna's cell, along with a charger, a blue notebook and a pen drive. The mobile phone reportedly contained applications such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, which were password-protected. A forensic examination by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) reportedly detected several obscene video files on the device. A photograph purportedly showing Revanna speaking on a mobile phone inside the prison also surfaced, intensifying questions over the security arrangements at the facility. Following the recovery, DGP Alok Kumar ordered an investigation led by DIG Jinendra Khanagavi to determine how the prohibited items had entered the prison and whether any officials had been negligent in preventing their entry. An official email has reportedly been sent to Hindalga Jail authorities regarding Revanna's proposed transfer. The chief superintendent has also been informed, and arrangements are expected to be made for his relocation under police escort once the final decision is taken.
Mysuru Dasara hits headlines over Mahisha Dasara ban, pass-sale allegations
Mysuru: With the countdown beginning for the world-famous Mysuru Dasara celebrations, several developments have drawn attention ahead of the grand festivities. While police have prohibited the organisation of Mahisha Dasara on Chamundi Hill, allegations have surfaced that gold passes issued for viewing the Jumboo Savari procession are being sold on the black market. The Mahisha 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 .
Bengaluru police conduct late night raids on 400-500 pubs, bars across city
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 10 (IANS) Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh led a late-night crackdown on pubs and bars across the city, with around 1,500 police personnel conducting raids and inspections at 400 to 500 locations to check violations of operating hours, underage drinking, and other alleged irregularities, he said on Saturday. The raids, which continued until 2 a.m. on Saturday, covered pubs and establishments on Brigade Road, including Brigade Garden and Page 3 pubs, along with several other locations across Bengaluru. The operation involved 19 IPS officers, including two Joint Commissioners, besides jurisdictional police and personnel from the Central Crime Branch (CCB). Speaking to the media, Seemanth Kumar Singh said the raids were conducted to ensure that pubs and bars adhered to the prescribed closing deadlines. He said police were also checking whether liquor was being served to underage customers and whether establishments were complying with licensing conditions. There is a deadline for pubs, and raids were conducted to check whether they are complying with it. Underage drinking should not be allowed. The jurisdictional Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) will look into these issues. We are on the field to ensure that the public is not inconvenienced, he said. According to police guidelines, kitchens are required to close by 1 a.m., liquor service must stop, and customers should leave the premises. Police took action to ensure establishments did not continue operations beyond the permitted hours. The inspections also focused on whether pubs and bars were operating in accordance with their licences, including establishments holding licences for ladies' pubs. Police checked whether such venues complied with the licence conditions and whether dance performances involved alleged vulgar acts. The operation was carried out across Bengaluru, with jurisdictional police and the CCB participating in the inspections. Police are expected to examine violations identified during the raids and initiate action against establishments found to have breached the rules. Police also raided ladies' pubs on Brigade Road in Bengaluru. Inspections were conducted to check violations, including allowing minors into the establishments, and to verify concerns involving underage girls. Police set up checkpoints on major roads and conducted inspections. Operations were also carried out to detect drunk driving and other criminal activities. Checks were conducted at bars to identify illegal activities and determine whether liquor was being served to minors. Police also conducted inspections on roads lined with bars in Anand Rao Circle and Koramangala. During the operation, bars, clubs and restaurants were closed, and staff members sent customers out of the premises.
More than 700,000 are without power in Florida and Alabama after Isaias slams coast
By Rhea Rose Abraham and Rajveer Pardesi Oct 10 (Reuters) - Isaias weakened to a post-tropical cyclone on Saturday, having rapidly lost wind speed after hitting the Florida coast as a Category 2 hurricane, the first of the 2026 Atlantic season, the US National Hurricane Center said in its latest advisory. The post-tropical cyclone, crossing over southern Alabama after making landfall earlier nearDestin, Florida is about 55 miles (89 km) south-southwest of Montgomery, Alabama, with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph (100kmh), the agency added. Isaiasis expected to continue weakening but produce gusty winds well inland before weakening below gale force later on Saturday, the NHC said. The center warned of possible storm surges, urban and river flooding and flash floods across the region, with considerable impacts likely across much of southern Alabama and the Florida Panhandle into southwest Georgia. A risk for tornadoes will also persist overnight across the Florida Panhandle and north Florida into southern Georgia, while the tornado threat will continue on Saturday across parts of the Florida Panhandle, Georgia, and theCarolinas, the agency said. Alabama's emergency management agency said the hurricane has downed trees and power lines, making travel hazardous in Houston County, which is under a flash flood warning. Due to the impacts of Hurricane Isaias, all Houston County roads are closed until further notice, it posted on X. These road closures will remain in effect until conditions are deemed safe for travel. President Donald Trump, asked about hurricane preparations, told reporters outside the White House, We're watching it very closely, the hurricane, adding that it was under control. More than 430,000 people in Florida and nearly 297,000 in Alabama lost power as the storm hit shore, according to power outage tracking firm PowerOutage.us. Emergency declarations have been approved in Florida and Alabama to ensure federal resources are available to respond to Isaias, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said on X. Florida's emergency services urged residents to shelter in place and watch for hurricane conditions across the north of the state. (Reporting by Rhea Rose Abraham and Rajveer Singh Pardesi in Bengaluru; Editing by William Mallard and Ros Russell) This article originally appeared on Reuters at https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/category-3-hurricane-isaias-makes-014900007.html
Priyank Kharge questions RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwats silence on electoral integrity
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 10 (IANS) Karnataka Minister for Home, e-Governance, Electronics, IT and BT Priyank Kharge on Saturday questioned the silence of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on allegations of electoral malpractice, asking why the organisation, which comments on a wide range of issues, had not spoken out on electoral integrity and accountability. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Kharge, son of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, said the RSS expressed opinions on several subjects, including Indias economy, foreign policy, religion, social values, science and family size, but remained silent on farmers distress, students concerns and allegations of vote chori. The RSS has an opinion on everything, Kharge said, listing issues on which he alleged the organisation had expressed views. He also criticised what he described as attempts to present claims about cow urine and cancer treatment, as well as mythological narratives, as scientific facts. Questioning Bhagwat directly, Kharge asked, Where is Mohan Bhagwat ji now? He further questioned what he described as the organisations silence on electoral integrity and accountability, asking why it had not responded to allegations of electoral malpractice. In another post, Minister Priyank Kharge stated, Reports of heightened security measures in Delhi ahead of protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar have sparked questions over the scale of the proposed arrangements, with allegations of metro station closures, preventive detentions and the deployment of thousands of security personnel. Kharge, in his statement, questioned whether the national capital was preparing for peaceful protests or creating what it described as a national security emergency. The claims include the possible closure of 57 metro stations, restrictions on trains and buses, and curbs on entry into Delhi. Kharge also alleged that student activists were facing preventive detention and that more than 32,000 security personnel had reportedly been mobilised. He further claimed that around 7,000 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel had been instructed to carry advanced anti-riot equipment, weapons and ammunition, while facial recognition surveillance had been intensified. He also alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had cancelled engagements outside Delhi to personally monitor the situation. It referred to enhanced security for Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and what it described as an aggressive social media campaign defending him. Questioning the reported measures, he asked whether the authorities were responding proportionately to planned protests or creating an atmosphere of heightened national security concerns. Kharge concluded with the political slogan, Dono Chowkidar Chor Nikle, criticising the ruling establishment.
CJP's Dipke, Ranka, Das detained at Delhi Airport ahead of Jantar Mantar protest
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and other CJP members, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, were detained at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport as they arrived ahead of the announced protest at Jantar Mantar, police said on Saturday. Delhi Police personnel entered the aircraft carrying Dipke after it landed at IGI Airport. Dipke posted the video showing the Delhi Police team entering the flight as he, along with other CJP members, Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka, were detained from the flight itself. In a video posted on his social media handle, Dipke was heard telling the police, ...I have come here to be arrested; arrest me. The CJP announced the detentions in a post on its social media handle, stating: Abhijeet Dipke DETAINED! Saurav Das DETAINED! Ashutosh Ranka DETAINED! They were detained ahead of the CJP's proposed protest at Jantar Mantar later in the day against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the country. Dipke had left Mumbai for Delhi earlier in the morning to lead the protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar. Earlier in the morning, YouTuber Dhruv Rathee was also detained from his residence in Gurugram by Gurugram Police, ahead of the planned protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Rathee had attended a protest against the SIR of electoral rolls in Bengaluru on Thursday. The reported detention comes as Delhi Police remains on high alert ahead of the CJPs proposed protest at Jantar Mantar, with security tightened across the national Capital. Meanwhile, vehicles are being checked at Delhis borders, while police personnel have been equipped with body cameras to record any untoward incidents during the demonstration. Security arrangements have also been strengthened at the residences of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. Drone surveillance is being conducted at key locations, while several Metro stations, including Supreme Court and Mandi House, have been closed as part of the security measures.
Dhruv Rathee Detained From Gurugram Home Ahead Of CJP Protest In Delhi
Dhruv Rathee had arrived in India from Germany earlier this week and had joined the CJP protest in Bengaluru on October 8.
YouTuber Dhruv Rathee Detained By Delhi Police, CJP Demands His Release
Dhruv Rathee had arrived in India from Germany earlier this week and had joined the CJP protest in Bengaluru on October 8.
Karnataka SIR: 2.8 L voter hearings pending, two-thirds in Bengaluru
Bengaluru: Karnatakas Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is nearing its final stage, but more than 2.8 lakh cases are yet to be taken up or disposed of through hearings across the state. Bengaluru and the districts covered by the citys civic jurisdiction account for nearly two-thirds of the pending cases, highlighting the workload 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 .
ISL set for kick off with Bengaluru vs Delhi clash
After a controversy-ridden, truncated 2025-26 season, the league will return to the traditional home-and-away format, followed by Playoffs.
8th Pay Commission: Rs 18,000 to Rs 69,000 minimum pay? What pensioners body hasproposed
The 8th Pay Commission recently held meetings in Bengaluru with several pensioners' organizations for discussions. Recommendations included raising the minimum basic pay to Rs 69,000 and pension to Rs 34,470. Suggestions also proposed merging existing pay scales and updating the Aykroyd formula to meet modern needs. Moreover, the annual increment rate was recommended to increase from 3% to 6% for better employee motivation.
Omar pitches J&K as GCC destination
Jammu, Oct 09: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday called upon industry leaders to explore Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), emphasising that the government is committed to creating a competitive, business-friendly ecosystem that attracts investment, fosters innovation and generates meaningful employment. We have to make Jammu and Kashmir a place that is competitive, a place that is attractive to do business, a place where you can make money, and a place where we can compete with the Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities around the country, the Chief Minister said while addressing the inaugural session of the J&K GCC Summit 2026 at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu. He addressed the gathering virtually from New Delhi. The two-day summit, themed Unlocking J&Ks GCC Potential for Building Growth Ecosystem and Catalysing Investment, brings together representatives of government, industry and academia to explore opportunities for developing Jammu and Kashmirs presence in Indias expanding GCC ecosystem. Highlighting the evolution of GCCs in India, the Chief Minister said that what began as call centres and business process outsourcing operations had evolved into centres of innovation, talent, capability and enterprise. The story of GCCs in India is a story of evolution, as is the story of Jammu and Kashmir, he said, and added that the transformation of GCCs demonstrated how capabilities and value addition could create new economic opportunities. Drawing a parallel with Jammu and Kashmirs own journey over the past three to three-and-a-half decades, Omar Abdullah said the fact that the region was now being discussed as a potential destination for GCC investments reflected a significant change in the opportunities being explored. Acknowledging that Jammu and Kashmir continued to face a perception challenge arising from its past, he said the government was working to address it through investments across industry, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and other emerging sectors, including GCCs. The Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir need not replicate the growth trajectories of established GCC hubs such as Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai, but could learn from their experiences and position itself to compete with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Coming late to the party is disappointing, but it is not always disadvantageous. We can learn from the experiences of others. We dont have to reinvent the wheel. We just have to use it better, CM Omar observed. He pointed out that the rising cost of doing business in larger cities had created opportunities for emerging destinations. Jammu and Kashmir, he said, could explore this space by building on its inherent advantages and offering an attractive environment for businesses to establish and expand their operations. Underscoring the importance of educational institutions in developing a skilled workforce, the Chief Minister highlighted the presence of a strong network of higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, including IIM Jammu, IIT Jammu, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, the University of Jammu, the University of Kashmir and the Islamic University of Science and Technology. These institutions, he continued, were producing talented and well-educated young people who were often compelled to seek employment opportunities outside the region, including in the GCC sector, because of limited opportunities at home. He said the establishment of GCCs in Jammu and Kashmir could help retain local talent, create quality employment and connect the regions educated youth with emerging opportunities in the technology-driven economy. The Chief Minister said the success of the summit should not be measured by an immediate target of establishing a large number of GCCs, but by the creation of a foundation for sustainable growth. Wed be quite happy to have one, first GCC. One will lead to five. Five will lead to ten. And the story will grow from there, he said, stressing that the government wanted investors to choose Jammu and Kashmir on the strength of its business potential rather than out of sympathy for its past challenges. Emphasising that commercial viability would remain central to attracting and retaining investment, Omar Abdullah said businesses would continue to operate in a destination only as long as it made economic sense for them. The Chief Minister highlighted the governments efforts to improve the business environment, including the passage of comprehensive Ease of Doing Business legislation during the recent session of the Legislative Assembly, which received the assent of the Lieutenant Governor and has become law. He said the legislation was intended to make doing business in Jammu and Kashmir easier, adding that its implementation on the ground would be critical. The government, he said, would learn from experience and undertake further improvements wherever required. Describing the summit as an opportunity for the government to learn from industry leaders and established GCC ecosystems, he said the deliberations would help identify the measures needed to make Jammu and Kashmir a more attractive destination for investors. He said the government was keen to build sustained engagement with NASSCOM and other industry stakeholders, and invited companies to explore the regions potential. Pointing to Jammu and Kashmirs climatic conditions and connectivity by road, rail and air, Omar Abdullah said the region had inherent advantages that could be developed into a compelling proposition for businesses considering new locations. I am just going to assure all of you that whatever we can do in the government to make your journey easier, to ensure that youre able to establish here easily and also profitably, please rest assured that at the highest levels in the government, we are committed to making your journey easy, he said. Expressing hope that the summit would mark the beginning of a long-term association between Jammu and Kashmir and the GCC industry, he said emerging technologies could open up opportunities for new destinations, including the Union Territory. The Chief Minister thanked the participating industry leaders and delegates for their engagement and appreciated IIM Jammu for organising the summit. He expressed hope that the two days of deliberations would translate into tangible outcomes and meaningful investment opportunities on the ground. The inaugural session was attended by Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner Secretary, Higher Education Department; Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, Secretary, Department of Labour and Employment; Rajesh Nambiar, President, NASSCOM; Rajendra Singh Pawar, Chairman, NIIT; and Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, among other representatives from government, industry and academia. With participation from approximately 45 organisations, over 55 industry leaders and more than 300 delegates, the J&K GCC Summit 2026 seeks to strengthen engagement between policymakers, industry and academia and identify pathways for translating Jammu and Kashmirs potential into investment, innovation, employment and sustainable economic growth.
Audit of more than 120 public parks in Bengaluru finds accessibility gaps
When it comes to sanitation, only 29.5% have toilets, of which 61% are accessible. Only 5.4% have handwashing facilities, and 10.9% have drinking water
No Land Acquisition Ordered for 3 High-Speed Rail Corridors
Alignment studies for HyderabadChennai, HyderabadBengaluru and HyderabadPune corridors are underway, with routes yet to be finalised.
Bengalurus gig season is serving major FOMO
2.8 lakh SIR hearings still pending in Karnataka, Bengaluru accounts for nearly two-thirds
Sanya Malhotra becomes brand ambassador for GKB as eyewear brand opens 100th store
GKB has announced actress Sanya Malhotra as its brand ambassador as the premium eyewear brand unveiled its new identity and marked the opening of its 100th store in India. The rebranding reflects the six-decade-old brands plans to strengthen its presence in the premium fashion and lifestyle segment while continuing to build on its legacy in optical retail. As part of the transformation, GKB Opticals will now operate under the name GKB. The change reflects the brands broader approach to eyewear, positioning it not just as a vision-care essential but also as an expression of personal style, individuality and lifestyle. The brand is known for its collection of frames and sunglasses from international eyewear labels. Sharing the thought behind the rebranding, Priyanka Gupta, Director, GKB, stated, The transition from GKB Opticals to GKB feels very organic as it reflects our philosophy and vision for the future of eyewear. Even though our heritage remains integral to the brand, we are now concentrating on developing our products further in terms of fashion, premium, luxury and lifestyle. The launch of GKBs 100th store marks another milestone in the companys journey. Spanning 1,000 square feet, the new outlet is located in Mumbai and is designed to bring together the brands heritage, contemporary design and premium retail experience. GKB offers several specialised services aimed at enhancing the customer experience. These include Vision Lounges in Mumbai and Bengaluru for private consultations, Lens Experience Zones where customers can explore different lens coatings, polarisation and light filters, and paediatric Myopia Clinics focused on childrens vision management. The brand also offers at-home eye testing and style consultations conducted by certified optometrists equipped with diagnostic tools. Its services further include 3D Virtual Try-On technology and digital in-store lens mapping to assist with frame selection and lens fitting. Several outlets also house audiology clinics, providing hearing-care services alongside traditional vision-care offerings. The brands product portfolio includes eyewear from international labels such as MYKITA, Masunaga, Bvlgari, Chopard, TAG Heuer and Ray-Ban Meta. Through its range of products and specialised services, GKB aims to bring together eyewear, vision care, fashion and technology under one retail experience. Sanya Malhotra, who is known for her contemporary approach to fashion, will represent the brand as it expands its focus on lifestyle-led eyewear. Speaking about the association, the actress said, Im excited to be part of this new chapter as GKB moves into a more fashion and lifestyle-led future. The right frames, be it glasses or sunnies, can change the way you feel, the way you present yourself and the way express your personality. GKBs offers everything I look for in eyewear - great design, individuality and a strong sense of style, backed by expertise. With its new identity, the appointment of Sanya Malhotra and the opening of its 100th store, GKB is looking to strengthen its position in the premium eyewear market by combining its established legacy with fashion, design and technological innovation. Also Read : Bollywood celebs to take fashion inspiration from this Ganesh Chaturthi
With aluminum prices soaring, Coca-Cola's bottlers and retailers in India have escalated the price of Diet Coke dramatically. The cost of a 330 ml can shot up to 70 from its previous price of 50. This adjustment stems from the rising demand for the sugar-free option, which has doubled within a year, leading to varying prices among retailers, despite the MRP still reading 50.
TOI report on flyover death in Bengaluru prompts govt action
GBA chief tells officials to repair Kanteerava Studio Road promptly
After Karnatakas letters, central govt announces cap on cancer drugs
Smart parking in Bengaluru: Relief for Jayanagar residents
Future beyond education: Green card move rattles US-bound students in Bengaluru
Winter migrants set to arrive, but Bengalurus Hebbal lake revamp still six months away
Experts pitch to extend Bengaluru Metro up to Nelamangala
Karnataka high court notices over BDA HQ demolition plan
Over 1,500 Biocon employees switch from private to public transport in Bengaluru
GST Council defers ITC relief, sparing Karnataka Rs 1500cr annual revenue loss
Siddaramaiahs silence on sting claim keeps pot simmering
MLA claims Union minister hired Delhi agency to target Karnataka Congress brass in sting ops
Proposed shift of Prajwal Revanna to Hindalga prison temporarily put on hold
Decision to shift Prajwal to Hindalga prison withheld
In Adani power row, Karnataka Escoms get 1,000 crore jolt
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 9 (IANS) Karnataka has been recognised for its leadership in the wind energy sector, winning the award for Highest under-construction wind power capacity of 9 GW at Windergy India 2026, being held in Chennai, the official statement said on Friday. In recognition of Karnataka's significant progress in strengthening its wind energy ecosystem and advancing renewable energy capacity, the award was received by Divya Prabhu GRJ, Managing Director of Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL) from Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for Education, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy, at the eighth edition of Windergy 2026, country's flagship wind energy event organised by the Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA), at the Chennai Trade Centre in Chennai. The achievement reflects Karnataka's sustained focus on renewable energy development and the state's commitment to creating an enabling environment for large-scale investments in clean energy. The award is also a recognition of the leadership and vision of Karnataka's Energy Minister K.J. George, whose continued focus on accelerating renewable energy deployment has helped strengthen the state's position as a leading renewable energy destination in the country. Welcoming the recognition, K.J. George said, It is a matter of great pride and happiness for Karnataka to receive this national recognition for having the highest under-construction wind power capacity of 9 GW. This achievement is a reflection of Karnataka's strong commitment to clean energy and our sustained efforts to create an enabling ecosystem for renewable energy investments. I congratulate KREDL, the Energy Department and all stakeholders who have contributed to this achievement. Under the guidance of the Karnataka government, we will continue to accelerate the development of renewable energy and build a resilient, sustainable and future-ready energy sector. Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of Karnataka Energy Department, said, This award is a significant recognition of Karnataka's consistent efforts towards scaling up renewable energy and demonstrates the confidence of investors in Karnataka's policy framework, infrastructure and renewable energy ecosystem. The Energy Department will continue to work closely with KREDL and other stakeholders to facilitate timely execution of projects and further strengthen Karnataka's leadership in the clean energy transition. We are honoured to receive the award for the highest under-construction wind power capacity of 9 GW. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of the Energy Minister, the Energy Department, KREDL, project developers and other stakeholders. Karnataka has consistently championed renewable energy, and this achievement reinforces the state's position as a preferred destination for wind energy investments. KREDL remains committed to facilitating projects, supporting investors and enabling the state to realise its ambitious renewable energy goals. Windergy India 2026 featured an international exhibition, high-level conferences, live demos, B2B/B2G meetings, and an Academia Connect forum. With more than 3,000 global delegates and dignitaries in attendance, the event highlighted India's growing prominence in the global wind energy landscape.
AI changing employer expectations; degrees alone no longer enough, say experts in Bengaluru
Stories of struggle, recovery open new chapter in mental health discussions in Bengaluru
IIM Bangalore ranks 11th globally in teaching impact
Dont dismiss their struggles, experts in Bengaluru urge parents to listen to adolescents
Bengaluru baker Smriti Nambiar wins silver at WorldSkills competition in Shanghai
Smriti Nambiar speaks about her journey from Bengaluru and Delhi, to China
Tesla launches Noida Experience Centre, adds third touchpoint in Delhi-NCR
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) Tesla on Friday announced that it has expanded its footprint in the Delhi-NCR region with the launch of a new Experience Centre at Skymark One in Sector 98, Noida, strengthening its retail presence in one of India's largest automobile markets. The new facility becomes Tesla's third customer-facing touchpoint in the National Capital Region after its existing locations in Delhi and Gurugram. The company said the centre will provide prospective buyers in Noida and nearby areas with another venue to explore Tesla's electric vehicle portfolio and schedule test drives. Located at Skymark One in Sector 98, the Experience Centre will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Customers can also book demo drives through Tesla's website. The facility is designed to allow visitors to view Tesla vehicles in person and experience their features before making a purchase decision. With the addition of the Noida outlet, Tesla has further expanded its retail network in India, where it entered the market in 2025. The company's store directory currently includes locations in Mumbai, Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Tesla currently sells the Model Y in India in two variants. The Model Y Premium Rear-Wheel Drive is priced from Rs 50.89 lakh, while the six-seat Model Y L Premium All-Wheel Drive starts at Rs 61.99 lakh. The Model Y Premium Rear-Wheel Drive offers a claimed range of up to 500 km under the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). The Model Y L variant comes with a six-seat configuration and all-wheel-drive capability, though actual driving range may vary depending on driving conditions and usage patterns. The launch of the Noida Experience Centre is expected to improve accessibility for potential customers across the National Capital Region by providing an additional location for vehicle demonstrations and customer engagement. Tesla's growing retail footprint reflects its efforts to strengthen its presence in the Indian electric vehicle market and increase visibility among prospective buyers. The company, however, has not indicated any sales targets or projections linked to the opening of the new facility.
Read A Kitaab debuts their literature festival in Bengaluru
After two successful editions in Mumbai, Read A Kitaab is hosting their literature festival in Bengaluru for the first time
Maya Bazaar 2026 back in Bengaluru for two days
The eigth edition of Maya Bazaar will see the participation of over 130 entrepreneurs, performers and rap artistes
J&K can emerge as a competitive destination for GCC companies: Omar Abdullah
Digital Desk | Jammu, Oct 9 (IANS) Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said J&K can emerge as a competitive destination for Global Capability Centre (GCC) companies. Addressing the inaugural session of the J&K GCC Summit 2026 at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu virtually from New Delhi, Omar Abdullah called upon industry leaders to explore J&K as an emerging destination for GCCs. He emphasised that the government is committed to creating a competitive, business-friendly ecosystem that attracts investment, fosters innovation and generates meaningful employment. We have to make J&K a place that is competitive, a place that is attractive to do business, a place where you can make money, and a place where we can compete with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities around the country, the Chief Minister said. The two-day summit, themed 'Unlocking J&K's GCC Potential for Building Growth Ecosystem and Catalysing Investment', brings together representatives from government, industry and academia to explore opportunities for expanding J&K's presence in India's growing GCC ecosystem. Highlighting the evolution of GCCs in India, Omar Abdullah said what began as call centres and business process outsourcing operations had evolved into centres of innovation, talent, capability and enterprise. The story of GCCs in India is a story of evolution, as is the story of J&K, he said, adding that the transformation of GCCs demonstrated how capability-building and value addition could create new economic opportunities. Drawing a parallel with J&K's own journey over the past three to three-and-a-half decades, he said the fact that the region was now being discussed as a potential destination for GCC investments reflected a significant shift in opportunities. Acknowledging that J&K continued to face a perception challenge arising from its past, he said the government was working to address it through investments across industry, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and other emerging sectors, including GCCs. The Chief Minister said J&K need not replicate the growth trajectories of established GCC hubs such as Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai, but could learn from their experiences and position itself to compete with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Coming late to the party is disappointing, but it is not always disadvantageous. We can learn from the experiences of others. We don't have to reinvent the wheel. We have to use it better, he said. He pointed out that the rising cost of doing business in larger cities had created opportunities for emerging destinations. J&K, he said, could capitalise on this by building on its inherent advantages and offering an attractive environment for businesses to establish and expand operations. Underscoring the importance of educational institutions in developing a skilled workforce, Omar Abdullah highlighted the presence of institutions such as IIM Jammu, IIT Jammu, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, the University of Jammu, the University of Kashmir and the Islamic University of Science and Technology. He said these institutions were producing talented and well-educated young people who were often compelled to seek employment opportunities outside the region, including in the GCC sector, because of limited opportunities at home. The establishment of GCCs in J&K, he added, could help retain local talent, create quality employment and connect the region's educated youth with emerging opportunities in the technology-driven economy. The Chief Minister said the success of the summit should not be measured by an immediate target of establishing a large number of GCCs, but by creating a foundation for sustainable growth. We'd be quite happy to have one first GCC. One will lead to five. Five will lead to ten. And the story will grow from there, he said, stressing that the government wanted investors to choose J&K on the strength of its business potential rather than sympathy for its past challenges. Emphasising that commercial viability would remain central to attracting and retaining investment, Omar Abdullah said businesses would continue to operate in a destination only as long as it made economic sense for them. The Chief Minister highlighted the government's efforts to improve the business environment, including the passage of comprehensive Ease of Doing Business legislation during the recent session of the Legislative Assembly, which received the assent of the J&K L-G and has become law. He said the legislation was intended to make doing business in J&K easier, adding that its implementation on the ground would be critical. The government, he said, would learn from experience and undertake further improvements wherever required. Describing the summit as an opportunity for the government to learn from industry leaders and established GCC ecosystems, he said the deliberations would help identify measures needed to make J&K a more attractive investment destination. He said the government was keen to build sustained engagement with NASSCOM and other industry stakeholders and invited companies to explore the region's potential. Pointing to J&K's climatic conditions and connectivity by road, rail and air, Omar Abdullah said the region had inherent advantages that could be developed into a compelling proposition for businesses considering new locations. Assuring support to investors, he said the government was committed to making it easier for companies to establish operations in J&K and operate profitably. Expressing hope that the summit would mark the beginning of a long-term association between J&K and the GCC industry, he said emerging technologies could open new opportunities for regions such as J&K. The Chief Minister thanked the participating industry leaders and delegates for their engagement and appreciated IIM Jammu for organising the summit. He expressed hope that the deliberations would translate into tangible outcomes and meaningful investment opportunities on the ground. With participation from around 45 organisations, more than 55 industry leaders and over 300 delegates, the J&K GCC Summit 2026 aims to strengthen engagement between policymakers, industry and academia and identify pathways for translating J&K's potential into investment, innovation, employment and sustainable economic growth.
India's AI talent demand outstrips supply by over 3.5 times: Report
Bengaluru is expected to need around 1.4 million AI professionals by 2026, with only 400,000 available currently. This talent gap poses challenges for enterprises and Global Capability Centres as AI adoption grows. Shortages in specialized technology roles have led to salary increases between 30 and 35 percent. Organizations are urged to continuously reskill employees to meet future industry demands.
Rahul Gandhi Defamation Case: Verdict Likely on Monday as Arguments Conclude
The case relates to Gandhi's alleged objectionable remarks against then BJP national president Amit Shah during an election campaign in Bengaluru in 2018.
Centre caps cancer drug trade margins at 30 pc after our report: Karnataka Health Department
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 9 (IANS) The Union government has capped trade margins on cancer medicines at a maximum of 30 per cent of their price, following a report by the Karnataka Health Department highlighting excessive mark-ups on cancer drugs and sustained efforts by state Health Minister U.T. Khader to address the issue, according to a statement issued by the state Health Department on Friday. Khader had raised concerns over the substantial difference between the production costs and retail prices of cancer medicines, alleging that pharmaceutical companies were imposing excessive mark-ups on essential drugs and medical devices. Around a month ago, he had highlighted instances in which medicines costing Rs 86 were being sold for Rs 4,528, drugs costing Rs 160 were priced at Rs 7,110, and medicines costing Rs 118 were being sold for Rs 4,416. He also alleged that cancer medicines and medical devices were being sold at prices 10 to 52 times their costs. Seeking urgent intervention, Khader had written to Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, urging the Centre to take stringent measures against excessive pricing and ensure transparency in the disclosure of landing and selling costs in hospitals. The Karnataka governments investigation report and Khaders efforts have now been followed by the Centres decision to restrict trade margins on cancer medicines to a maximum of 30 per cent of the cost, according to the statement. The move comes amid growing concerns over the affordability of cancer treatment and the high prices of patented medicines. The Kerala High Court had recently expressed serious concern over the excessive pricing of patented cancer drugs, while the Supreme Court had also questioned the Centre over rising medicine prices, the statement said. Khader had also advocated granting wider powers to the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), which currently has the authority to regulate prices of specified medicines, to enable more comprehensive oversight of drug pricing. He had argued that stronger regulatory powers were necessary to prevent excessive pricing and ensure that patients could access essential cancer medicines at affordable rates. The Karnataka governments intervention has brought renewed attention to the need for greater transparency in pharmaceutical pricing and stronger mechanisms to protect patients from high costs. The Centres decision is being projected by the Karnataka government as a significant policy development in its efforts to curb excessive trade margins on cancer medicines and improve the affordability of treatment.
Sharma Holds Two-Shot Lead In Golf Championship
Shubhankar Sharma retained a two-shot lead after the third round of the Kapil Dev Invitational Tour Championship on Friday, despite an even-par 72. Bengaluru's Manoj S and Italy's Michele Ortolani are his closest challengers heading into the final round.
Semicon 2.0 can boost local chip design for telecom infrastructure: IESA President
Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Oct 9 (IANS) India needs to strengthen domestic chip design capabilities for telecom infrastructure and provide growth capital to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to help them scale up and compete globally, Ashok Chandak, President of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) and President and CEO of SEMI India, said on Friday. Chandak said a significant portion of India's telecom infrastructure currently relies on imported content, while domestic chip design for the sector remains limited. He said the proposed Semicon 2.0 policy could encourage local chip design and the development of indigenous intellectual property (IP) to meet the requirements of 5G and 6G telecom infrastructure. Most of the telecom infrastructure has the content which is of import. And there are hardly few chips those are, or very limited or nothing, those are designed in India, Chandak said. He said understanding the requirements and specifications of telecom infrastructure would help India design chips suited to its needs, while Semicon 2.0 could support local designs and intellectual property development. The Semicon 2.0 policy would encourage and help the local designs of those chips -- so local design and IPRs to meet the requirements those are required for telecom infrastructure, he added. India is at a very different stage now, where globally, with the efforts of Prime Minister Modi and his policies and his colleagues and departments, India has been brought to the global map where globally, the international, worldwide, many companies and countries are trusting now India, actually, Chandak added. Emphasising the complementary roles of India Mobile Congress and Semicon India, Chandak said the former primarily focuses on telecom infrastructure, equipment, installation and related developments, while the latter aims to build the entire semiconductor value chain, from design to manufacturing. He described the two initiatives as different but interconnected components of the broader technology ecosystem, referring to the concept of silicon to systems.
Malleshwaram voter list row: Karnataka HC stays FIR over Form 7s
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court has granted an interim stay on an FIR registered against two booth-level agents accused of submitting Form 7 applications with allegedly false information to remove names from the electoral rolls during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. The court observed that the complaint appeared, prima facie, to have been filed 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 .
J&K can emerge as a competitive destination for GCC Companies, says CM Omar Abdullah
Jammu, Oct 9: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today called upon industry leaders to explore Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), emphasising that the government is committed to creating a competitive, business-friendly ecosystem that attracts investment, fosters innovation and generates meaningful employment. We have to make Jammu and Kashmir a place that is competitive, a place that is attractive to do business, a place where you can make money, and a place where we can compete with the Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities around the country, the Chief Minister said while addressing the inaugural session of the J&K GCC Summit 2026 at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu. He addressed the gathering virtually from New Delhi. The two-day summit, themed Unlocking J&Ks GCC Potential for Building Growth Ecosystem and Catalysing Investment, brings together representatives of government, industry and academia to explore opportunities for developing Jammu and Kashmirs presence in Indias expanding GCC ecosystem. Highlighting the evolution of GCCs in India, the Chief Minister said that what began as call centres and business process outsourcing operations had evolved into centres of innovation, talent, capability and enterprise. The story of GCCs in India is a story of evolution, as is the story of Jammu and Kashmir, he said, and added that the transformation of GCCs demonstrated how capabilities and value addition could create new economic opportunities. Drawing a parallel with Jammu and Kashmirs own journey over the past three to three-and-a-half decades, Omar Abdullah said the fact that the region was now being discussed as a potential destination for GCC investments reflected a significant change in the opportunities being explored. Acknowledging that Jammu and Kashmir continued to face a perception challenge arising from its past, he said the government was working to address it through investments across industry, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and other emerging sectors, including GCCs. The Chief Minister said Jammu and Kashmir need not replicate the growth trajectories of established GCC hubs such as Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai, but could learn from their experiences and position itself to compete with Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. Coming late to the party is disappointing, but it is not always disadvantageous. We can learn from the experiences of others. We dont have to reinvent the wheel. We just have to use it better, CM Omar observed. He pointed out that the rising cost of doing business in larger cities had created opportunities for emerging destinations. Jammu and Kashmir, he said, could explore this space by building on its inherent advantages and offering an attractive environment for businesses to establish and expand their operations. Underscoring the importance of educational institutions in developing a skilled workforce, the Chief Minister highlighted the presence of a strong network of higher education institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, including IIM Jammu, IIT Jammu, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, the University of Jammu, the University of Kashmir and the Islamic University of Science and Technology. These institutions, he continued, were producing talented and well-educated young people who were often compelled to seek employment opportunities outside the region, including in the GCC sector, because of limited opportunities at home. He said the establishment of GCCs in Jammu and Kashmir could help retain local talent, create quality employment and connect the regions educated youth with emerging opportunities in the technology-driven economy. The Chief Minister said the success of the summit should not be measured by an immediate target of establishing a large number of GCCs, but by the creation of a foundation for sustainable growth. Wed be quite happy to have one, first GCC. One will lead to five. Five will lead to ten. And the story will grow from there, he said, stressing that the government wanted investors to choose Jammu and Kashmir on the strength of its business potential rather than out of sympathy for its past challenges. Emphasising that commercial viability would remain central to attracting and retaining investment, Omar Abdullah said businesses would continue to operate in a destination only as long as it made economic sense for them. The Chief Minister highlighted the governments efforts to improve the business environment, including the passage of comprehensive Ease of Doing Business legislation during the recent session of the Legislative Assembly, which received the assent of the Lieutenant Governor and has become law. He said the legislation was intended to make doing business in Jammu and Kashmir easier, adding that its implementation on the ground would be critical. The government, he said, would learn from experience and undertake further improvements wherever required. Describing the summit as an opportunity for the government to learn from industry leaders and established GCC ecosystems, he said the deliberations would help identify the measures needed to make Jammu and Kashmir a more attractive destination for investors. He said the government was keen to build sustained engagement with NASSCOM and other industry stakeholders, and invited companies to explore the regions potential. Pointing to Jammu and Kashmirs climatic conditions and connectivity by road, rail and air, Omar Abdullah said the region had inherent advantages that could be developed into a compelling proposition for businesses considering new locations. I am just going to assure all of you that whatever we can do in the government to make your journey easier, to ensure that youre able to establish here easily and also profitably, please rest assured that at the highest levels in the government, we are committed to making your journey easy, he said. Expressing hope that the summit would mark the beginning of a long-term association between Jammu and Kashmir and the GCC industry, he said emerging technologies could open up opportunities for new destinations, including the Union Territory. The Chief Minister thanked the participating industry leaders and delegates for their engagement and appreciated IIM Jammu for organising the summit. He expressed hope that the two days of deliberations would translate into tangible outcomes and meaningful investment opportunities on the ground. The inaugural session was attended by Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Ram Niwas Sharma, Commissioner Secretary, Higher Education Department; Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, Secretary, Department of Labour and Employment; Rajesh Nambiar, President, NASSCOM; Rajendra Singh Pawar, Chairman, NIIT; and Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, among other representatives from government, industry and academia. With participation from approximately 45 organisations, over 55 industry leaders and more than 300 delegates, the J&K GCC Summit 2026 seeks to strengthen engagement between policymakers, industry and academia and identify pathways for translating Jammu and Kashmirs potential into investment, innovation, employment and sustainable economic growth.
Expired Milk, Khoa And More Seized By Food Safety Officials At Bengaluru Ice Cream Outlets
Expired food products were found at M N Enterprises in Bilekahalli and Savara Ice Cream Cafe in Jayanagar 3rd Block.
Shikshagrahas Mothers of Courage Named Finalist at UN SDG Action Awards 2026
From Bihars villages to Rome, Mothers of Courage among the finalists at the UN SDG Action Awards 2026. Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 7: Mothers of Courage, which documents women leading
Biocon Electric Files DRHP with SEBI for IPO of Up to 59 Lakh Shares
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 7: Biocon Electric Limited (the Company), a multi-category electrical products company selling under the BIOCON brand, has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI
'Rapido Ride Turned Into GTA': Captain Hits Car, Runs Away And Leaves Passenger Injured
Passenger recounts terrifying experience after Rapido captain crashes and flees in Bengaluru.
'Verify His Visa Status': Former Bengaluru Police Chief Writes To Centre On Dhruv Rathee
Former Bengaluru Police Commissioner Bhaskar Rao has written to the Union Home Ministry seeking a check on YouTuber Dhruv Rathee's citizenship and visa status after he attended an anti-SIR protest in Bengaluru on October 8. In his letter to the Union
ISL 2026: Bengaluru FC host SC Delhi as FC Goa takes on Chennaiyin FC in tournament opener
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) The Indian Super League (ISL) 2026-27 season gets underway on Saturday with two intriguing fixtures, as Bengaluru FC host Sporting Club Delhi at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, before FC Goa welcomes Chennaiyin FC to the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda on the opening day. Bengaluru FC will look to begin their campaign on a winning note in front of their home supporters when they take on Sporting Club Delhi at 5 pm. The Blues will be keen to build on their previous 2-0 victory over Delhi, in which Sivasakthi Narayanan and Sunil Chhetri found the net, while the visitors will be looking to make an early statement. Head Coach Pep Muoz has stressed the importance of managing player fitness following a demanding pre-season and the recent international window. Key players Ryan Williams, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Ashique Kuruniyan returned from national duty after a demanding run of fixtures, with Muoz highlighting the need to manage workloads carefully. We have to take care of our players, Munoz said, adding that Williams involvement would depend on his recovery. Despite the fitness considerations, the Bengaluru coach remains confident in the depth of his squad, with midfielder Suresh Wangjam entering his eighth season at the club. Muoz has also emphasised the importance of combining results with entertaining football that reflects Bengaluru FCs identity. The hosts have strengthened their squad with several overseas arrivals, including defenders Menno Koch and Sandro Embalo, midfielders Borja Martinez and Manuel de Iriondo, and Montenegrin striker Mihailo Perovic. The new additions will be expected to help fill the gap left by Rahul Bhekes departure to Mohun Bagan SG. Sporting Club Delhi, meanwhile, arrive with match sharpness from the Durand Cup and a young squad averaging 24.3 years. Head Coach Tomasz Tchorz will look to build on the experience gained last season, with continuity, high-tempo pressing and the development of young Indian players central to the clubs approach. Brazilian forward Rodriguinho, who scored seven goals during Delhis Durand Cup semi-final run, will be one to watch. Midfielder Lalrinliana Hnamte underlined the team's ambition ahead of the opener, saying, We are very young, but we are hungry for the trophy. On the other hand, FC Goa and Chennaiyin FC renew their rivalry at Fatorda, with both sides looking to start the season strongly under familiar faces in new coaching roles. FC Goa Head Coach Gouramangi Singh and Chennaiyin FC Head Coach Clifford Miranda, former teammates at both the national team and Dempo, will begin their respective campaigns with a competitive encounter. FC Goa have welcomed back Jorge Ortiz, whose previous spell with the club was successful, while Spanish midfielder lex Vallejo and winger Isak Vanlalruatfela add further options to the squad. Singh will look to establish his approach from the outset, with an emphasis on clarity, control and competitiveness on both sides of the ball. As a club, we want to stay true to our identity of being a competitive team. We want to play with a lot more clarity. We want to control games and be comfortable with and without the ball, Singh said ahead of the fixture. Chennaiyin FC, who finished 13th last season, have strengthened their Indian contingent with Ayush Dev Chhetri and Brison Fernandes, while Glan Martins arrives from FC Goa. French attacking midfielder Madih Talal and Brazilian forward Ramon Tanque further bolster the Marina Machans attacking options. Miranda, meanwhile, has stressed that consistency across the campaign will matter more than the result of a single fixture. Beating Goa wont win us the league, and losing to Goa wont lose us the league. Its about being consistent over the 24 games, he said. The teams' previous meeting ended in a 1-1 draw in Chennai, with Sandesh Jhingan scoring a late equaliser after Irfan Yadwad had opened the scoring. While the return fixture carries added intrigue with former teammates now on opposing touchlines, Singh has maintained that the focus remains firmly on the teams rather than the coaches. Saturday isnt about Gouramangi and Clifford. It is about FC Goa and Chennaiyin two very good teams, and were going to get a competitive game, he said. Both opening-day fixtures will be broadcast live on YouTube, Sony Sports Network and SonyLIV. Match schedule: Bengaluru FC vs Sporting Club Delhi Venue: Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Bengaluru Kick-off: 5:00 pm IST FC Goa vs Chennaiyin FC Venue: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, Goa Kick-off: 7:30 pm IST
His Achievements Have Made Him Immortal: Malhar on Nana Patekar as Anil Kapoor Mourns Nanya
Veteran actor Nana Patekar was cremated with full state honours at his farmhouse in Donje village, Pune, on October 8, as family, friends, dignitaries and thousands of fans gathered to bid him a final farewell. His son Malhar Patekar paid an emotional tribute and vowed to carry forward his fathers legacy. Anil Kapoor mourned his close friend with a heartfelt message, while Amitabh Bachchan remembered Nana on Kaun Banega Crorepati. Jackie Shroff and others also paid their last respects.
'127% Hike Vs Retention Offer': Bengaluru Data Specialist Confused About Career Move
Bengaluru data specialist receives 127 per cent pay hike offer and weighs retention match.
People can report problems on 9281607001 by phone or WhatsApp, says Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy
West Bengal bypolls: BJP retains Nandigram with record margin, wins Muslim-dominated Rejinagar
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari says Muslim voters from both Nandigram and Rejinagar have extended support to the BJP candidates; the number of seats of the BJP in the 294-member Legislative Assembly have increased to 209
Naidu Urges Shipping Ministry to Set Up Shipbuilding Centre at Dugarajapatnam
Naidu discussed the development of ports in the state, setting up a terminal at Mulapeta Port and establishing a shipbuilding centre at Dugarajapatnam
Census 2027: Ensure every individual is counted, says Registrar General
Mrityunjay Kumar Narayan asks census officials in Andhra Pradesh to complete the second phase with accuracy and within deadlines
Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves Skill Development and Employment Scheme
The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a new skill development scheme aimed at boosting employment across the state. Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves Skill Development and Employment Scheme
Local Body Elections Notification To Release After Gazette: SEC Punetha
SEC Anil Chandra Punetha said that the government will issue a gazette notification finalising the reservations for the Andhra Pradesh local body elections, after which the election notification will follow.
Hammer To Kill A Fly: SC Asks Centre To Review Delhi Metro, Train Curbs Ahead Of CJP Protest
The Supreme Court on Friday, 9 October, asked the Centre to reconsider restrictions on Delhi Metro and railway services ahead of the Cockroach Janata Party's (CJP) proposed protest on 10 October. The court said security arrangements should not cause unnecessary trouble
Beyond Personal Ambition: CM Majhi Urges Youth to Walk Pandit Gopabandhu
Marking the birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter and social reformer Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi issued a passionate call to the states youth. He urged young citizens to balance their personal career ambitions with a deep commitment to social welfare and nation-building. Paying floral tributes at the statue of [] The post Beyond Personal Ambition: CM Majhi Urges Youth to Walk Pandit Gopabandhus Path appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Bypoll Results: TVK Leads In TN Bypolls, BJP Dominates Bengal, Assam
Vijay-Led TVK Heads For Wins In Madurantakam And Dharapuram; BJP Posts Massive Leads In Nandigram, Rejinagar And Nagaon, While AINRC Retains Puducherry Seat
Four killed after car hits truck in Dharwad district
The car collided head-on with a goods truck near Amaragol village in Navalgund taluk of Dharwad district in Karnataka on October 9
Nidal Hasans Firing Squad Execution To Be Livestreamed By US Military
Nidal Malik Hasans scheduled execution has sparked fresh controversy after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Fort Hood shooter is set to face a firing squad on December 3, with the Pentagon confirming the execution will be livestreamed. President Donald Trump also addressed the issue at a Texas rally, thrusting the highly contentious death penalty case back into the spotlight.
A Course Called Ireland: Watch the Official trailer from english Web series 'A Course Called Ireland' starring Bill Murray, Tom Coyle and Chris O'Dowd. A Course Called Ireland is directed by Chris Cottam. To know more about A Course Called Ireland, watch the video. Check out the latest english trailer, new series trailer, trending english series trailer, Bill Murray, Tom Coyle and Chris O'Dowd's videos at ETimes - Times of India Entertainment.
BREAKING: Saudi Aircraft BOMBED, Pilot Among 3 Killed In Deadliest Houthi Assault On Riyadh Airport
Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi has warned Qatar against deepening its support for Saudi Arabia, claiming Riyadh could eventually turn against Doha despite their current cooperation.He accused Saudi Arabia of pursuing regime change in Qatar and argued that Dohas backing for Riyadh in Yemen risks making it complicit in the conflict, while Qatar has strongly condemned Houthi attacks and reaffirmed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia.
