All India Institute of Ayurveda chief calls for making 'Swachhata' integral part of lives
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) Director P.K. Prajapati said on Sunday that cleanliness and hygiene are a shared responsibility and encouraged everyone to make 'Swachhata' an integral part of their daily lives, an official said on Sunday. Addressing the concluding event of 'Swachhata Hi Seva' (SHS) Campaign 2026 on October 2, Prajapati highlighted that said a Swachhata Pledge was also administered to the participating members of AIIA. As part of the campaign, a campus-wide cleanliness drive was undertaken at AIIA and faculty members, scholars and staff pledged to uphold cleanliness and hygiene, practise responsible waste management and contribute towards maintaining a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, an official statement said. Organised by the Department of Swasthavritta and Yoga, AIIA, the campaign was conducted from September 17 to October 2 under the theme Swachhata Mein Sabhag, Swachh Bharat, Viksit Bharat. The campaign focused on promoting cleanliness, responsible waste management, environmental awareness and community participation across the Institute and its surrounding areas, the statement said. On the concluding day, the programme was attended by Manjusha Rajagopala, Delhi University Dean and Director; Rajagopala, Dean Research; Raja Ram Mahto, AMS, along with faculty members of the Institute, it added. The fortnight-long campaign witnessed active participation from faculty members, Ph.D. scholars, postgraduate scholars, staff, patients and their attendants. During the campaign, awareness programmes were organised for patients and their attendants in hospital waiting areas on four-way waste segregation, home composting, Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (3Rs) and avoidance of single-use plastics, the statement added. As part of the Shramdaan activities, office premises and indoor areas of the Institute were cleaned, reinforcing the spirit of voluntary service and collective responsibility. Cleanliness drives were also undertaken at various identified areas in and around the campus to promote clean and healthy surroundings and encourage responsible waste management in public spaces. The Institute will continue its efforts towards cleanliness and effective waste management through Special Campaign 6.0, which is underway and will continue till October 31, with the theme Effective Collection, Segregation and Disposal of e-waste, the statement said. The Department also organised a plantation drive under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative in the NTPC area, promoting environmental sustainability and community participation, it added.
CCI to showcase technology-driven cotton procurement reforms at under Reform Utsav 2026
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The Ministry of Textiles will showcase a series of technology-driven and farmer-centric reforms undertaken by the Cotton Corporation of India Ltd. (CCI) at a special event in Hyderabad on October 6 as part of Reform Utsav 2026, it was announced on Sunday. The event will highlight how CCI, in coordination with the Ministry of Textiles, has transformed the cotton procurement ecosystem through digitalisation, process re-engineering and institutional reforms aimed at improving transparency, efficiency and ease of doing business for cotton farmers and other stakeholders. The showcase will bring together senior government officials, representatives of the Telangana government, policymakers, farmers, industry associations and stakeholders from across the cotton and textile value chain. It will provide a platform to highlight the impact of the reforms at the ground level and facilitate experience-sharing among stakeholders. Over the past few years, CCI has introduced a range of technology-enabled interventions covering farmer registration, digital slot booking, direct payments, quality assessment, traceability, sale of cotton and stakeholder engagement. These measures are aimed at reducing procedural complexities, strengthening accountability and ensuring more efficient delivery of procurement services to farmers. A key initiative to be highlighted at the event will be the Kapas Kisan digital platform, which has brought several stages of the cotton procurement process onto a digital interface. The platform facilitates farmer registration, slot booking, procurement-related communication and Aadhaar-enabled payments, providing farmers with greater visibility and transparency in the procurement process. The event will also showcase CCIs initiatives for improving the quality and traceability of Indian cotton. Measures relating to contamination control, digital traceability and the promotion of premium-quality cotton under the Kasturi Cotton Bharat initiative are aimed at enhancing the identity, quality and market positioning of Indian cotton in domestic and international markets. The High-Density Planting System (HDPS) will be another key focus of the showcase. CCI is promoting HDPS and other productivity-oriented interventions in collaboration with relevant agricultural institutions to address the productivity gap in Indian cotton, improve farm-level returns and strengthen the competitiveness of the sector.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) India's growing global footprint is driven by increasing trade, development and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) partnerships, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar noted on Sunday. Interacting with young diplomats participating in the Raisina Forum for Future of Diplomacy 2026 here, EAM Jaishankar spoke about the rise of the global workforce and greater mobility of skilled professionals. Sharing details regarding his participation on X, he said: Delighted to interact with the young diplomats participating in the Raisina Forum for Future of Diplomacy 2026. Discussed among other things : India's growing global footprint characterised by our growing trade, development and HADR partnerships. The rise of a global workforce and greater mobility of skilled professionals. And the growing responsibilities for ensuring diaspora welfare, including of seafarers. The imperative of strategic autonomy for countries to deal with the contemporary global landscape, he added. EAM Jaishankar emphasised that the emerging nature of India-Africa partnership is characterised by greater technology, capabilities and experiential transfer. He spoke about India's initiatives towards peace through peacekeeping and its advocacy for dialogue and diplomacy. During his interaction, EAM Jaishankar also highlighted the challenges of conducting foreign policy in the social media era. On October 1, the 'Raisina Forum for Future of Diplomacy' was held in Leh, bringing together diplomats, policymakers, business leaders and strategic thinkers from several countries around the world. Ladakh Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena addressed the event. As Indias premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, this Forum brought together diplomats, policymakers, business leaders and strategic thinkers, from India and 39 countries around the world. I underlined Ladakhs unique strategic importance, as a vital frontier, where global diplomacy, security, and sustainable development converge, against the backdrop of its unique ecology, harsh climates and a thriving, vibrant culture. Also shared our transformative initiatives designed to empower local communities while preserving our fragile ecology, Saxena posted on X. From enhancing connectivity, boosting tourism infrastructure and strengthening local economy to securing our ecology and water resources, we are building an inclusive and resilient Ladakh, under the visionary leadership of Honble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi ji. Building on today's forum, I also shared my vision and a strong desire to host the World Economic Forum in Ladakh soon, showcasing our sustainable growth model to the world, he added.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Three women journalists have filed complaints against Delhi Police personnel, alleging sexual misconduct while being detained during the protests at Jantar Mantar on Saturday, police said. The police, on Sunday, stated that the complaints have been transferred to the Crime Branch for an impartial inquiry. Protests are being staged at the national capital's Jantar Mantar, despite the imposition of prohibitory orders, to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. In a post on X, Delhi Police said: On 03-10-26, during the protest in New Delhi area, while being in law-and-order situation, allegations of sexual harassment were made by three female journalists against police officers. New Delhi District has received their complaints and the same are transferred to Crime Branch for fair and impartial enquiry, it added. Speaking to IANS, DCP Neha Yadav said: Despite Section 163 of BNSS being imposed in the New Delhi area, AISA and other parties held a protest on October 3 against SIR. The protesters were informed about the prohibitory orders and warned to leave the spot, and when they did not comply, they were detained. At around 6 pm, three women who identified themselves as journalists complained of manhandling by Delhi Police officers and staff during their detention. Their complaints were accepted, and they were medically examined, she said, reiterating that all the complaints have been transferred to the Crime Branch. The senior police officer appealed to anyone having video footage of the alleged incident to share the same with the Crime Branch. Meanwhile, CPI-M, AAP leaders and other organisations, on Sunday, staged a protest outside the Parliament Street Police Station over the allegations made by the journalists. Speaking to IANS, CPI-M leader Brinda Karat said: Why has the FIR not been lodged yet? Referring to the police officer, against whom allegations have been made by the journalists, she said: She (one of the complainants) is giving her statement...it is clear in the video that the ACP is running away. Thieves and robbers run away; a police officer does not run away from his uniform. Why was he running away? Because he is guilty...he is at fault. He is unable to reply because this girl is speaking the truth and he is lying. Delhi AAP President Saurabh Bharadwaj said: Police stations and hospitals are supposed to remain open 24 hours...Just imagine, someone came to file a complaint and seek accountability from them, and they shut down the police station itself. Moreover, they have also closed all the routes leading to the police station. AAP MLA Kuldeep Kumar also questioned the delay in filing an FIR based on the complaints of the journalists. Where has the complaint been taken? No FIR has been registered yet. Registering an FIR is a right, and even the court says that...Will every person have to launch a protest to get justice? What is the Delhi Police doing? he asked while speaking to IANS. Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) co-convener Saurav Das was also present at the protest site.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4,(IANS) Countering the allegations made by the Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sudhanshu Trivedi said on Sunday that Congress' latest actions were an insult to the mandate of the people of the nation. He added that the BJP under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the first non-Congress party in India's history to win with a clear majority in 2014 and that Kharge was trying to call that party 'illegal'. Recently Kharge made remarks demanding the dissolution of the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies, saying that all the elections were illegal and even Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Ministers of all the BJP-ruled states were illegal. Mallikarjun Kharge, a leader so senior that he is even older than Rahul Gandhi's father, why does he want to own Rahul Gandhi Ji's deranged mindset? And with all due humility, I want to ask Kharge Ji that when your election took place, not one, but several Congress leaders had asked to at least provide the list of the Electoral College, that is, at least provide the list of the electoral board. But Congress did not provide it, Trivedi said. So the first question that arises is that your (Mallikarjun Kharge's) election to the post of Congress President itself is illegal. Remember the second scene when there was the nomination of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Ji or Rahul Gandhi Ji. Everyone would remember that video where other family members were sitting inside the nomination room, but Kharge Ji was not even allowed to enter because it was believed that if he entered, it would become illegal, the BJP MP added. He said that the entire Congress should apologise for their words. He noted that before 2001, Congress had already vanished from certain states of India. He said that Congress had not won in Tamil Nadu since 1967, despite the state having 39 Lok Sabha seats, nor has it won in Bengal since 1977, where it holds 42 seats. Furthermore, the party (Congress) has vanished from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar since 1990. Challenging the Opposition, Trivedi asked, Are you trying to call the BJP government -- which won with a clear majority- illegal? Mr. Kharge, I want to name those states where Congress could never make a comeback. Reportedly, Mallikarjun Kharge demanded fresh polls on Saturday, saying that since all the elections are illegal and that all the Ministers of the Cabinet, including Prime Minister Modi, were illegal, fresh polls should be conducted using ballots.
BJPs Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra reaches 3,000 drug-affected families, claims party
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 4 (IANS) Behind Punjabs growing concern over drug abuse are thousands of families struggling to save their loved ones from addiction. Bringing their stories and concerns into the spotlight, the BJPs nearly two-week-long Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatra reached out to 3,000 families affected by drugs while traversing all 117 Assembly constituencies in the state, the party said on Sunday. Describing the campaign as a peoples movement rather than a political exercise, the BJP said the yatra sought to give a voice to families battling the consequences of drug abuse and mobilise public support for a drug-free Punjab. According to a report compiled by the party, the campaign travelled nearly 4,000 km and organised 474 programmes, including public rallies, roadshows, reception events and street-corner meetings. The yatra, it claimed, directly reached 49.5 lakh people, while its social media content garnered 6.5 crore views. The campaign was conducted in four parts, with senior state leaders accompanying all four yatras. It culminated in Jalandhar on September 30 with an address by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Launched on September 18 from Madhopur in Pathankot in the presence of BJP president Nitin Nabin and state chief Kewal Singh Dhillon, the first leg covered 35 Assembly constituencies and 10 organisational districts. Travelling around 1,250 km, it directly connected with over 4.3 lakh people, while its overall outreach exceeded 15.5 lakh. The second leg began from Fatehgarh Sahib on September 19, with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta participating as the chief guest. Covering 26 Assembly constituencies and nine organisational districts over approximately 920 km, it directly reached 3.5 lakh people, with total outreach crossing 13 lakh. The third yatra was launched from Fazilka on September 20 by Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. It covered 25 constituencies and eight organisational districts, travelling around 910 km and directly reaching nearly three lakh people. Its overall outreach was estimated at 12 lakh. The fourth leg started on September 21 from Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in Talwandi Sabo, with Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan participating. It covered 27 constituencies and nine organisational districts over approximately 850 km, directly reaching four lakh people and recording a total outreach of around nine lakh. Taking the anti-drug message beyond political platforms, the BJP also sought to connect the campaign with Punjabs religious and cultural traditions. During the yatra, party leaders visited seven temples, 23 gurdwaras and 10 deras. Street plays and Dhadi performances formed an important part of the awareness campaign, with 226 street plays and 225 Dhadi music programmes organised to communicate the dangers of drug abuse through local art and storytelling. State BJP chief Kewal Singh Dhillon said the response from people across Punjab reflected the campaigns success. He maintained that the yatra was not a political exercise but a mass movement against drugs. Citing the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah to make Punjab drug-free by December 31, 2029, Dhillon said the BJP would work towards fulfilling the promise under all circumstances. While the party highlighted the campaigns extensive public outreach, its stated engagement with 3,000 drug-affected families brought the focus back to the human cost of addiction and the challenge of turning public awareness into lasting rehabilitation and a drug-free future for Punjab.
CEC protest intensifies in Delhi; AISA, AAP workers detained as marches hit barricades
GST Council meeting to look at decriminalising tax law
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The forthcoming GST Council meeting will take up for discussion whether the stand-alone provision under the Goods and Services Tax regime, which empowers tax officials to arrest taxpayers under investigation, can be removed as instances of its misuse have come to the fore, as per a senior official. This proposal has been made as part of the broader suggestions by the GST Councils Law Committee on decriminalisation of GST laws, as on several occasions the failure to pay tax has not been deliberately intended. This would result in tax officials no longer having the power under Section 69 to arrest a taxpayer during a GST investigation. The current GST framework gives the Commissioner the power under Section 69 of the CGST Act to authorise arrest where there are reasons to believe that a person has committed specified serious offences under Section 132. The current thinking is that in serious cases involving fake invoicing, fraudulent input tax credit and claiming fake refunds, action can be taken for criminal prosecution under the provisions of the general criminal law provided in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The Councils Law Committee, comprising officials from the Centre and states, examines legal provisions under the GST laws and recommends statutory amendments and clarifications to the GST Council. Businesses and industry representatives have complained that the arrest provisions can create fear and uncertainty, particularly when used against senior executives or in sectors such as banking and insurance. This step of decriminalising the law is seen as a taxpayer-friendly move. The Law Committee has also recommended raising the monetary threshold for prosecution of offenders. According to the current rules, the statutory minimum amount of tax evasion or wrongful ITC required to launch prosecution is Rs 5 crore. This threshold could now be raised to Rs 10 crore. The Committee has also recommended reducing the imprisonment timelines for lighter offences as the existing terms are too harsh. Under Section 132 of the CGST Act, GST offences exceeding Rs 5 crore can attract a jail term of five years with a fine. Offences of the value of Rs 2-5 crore may attract a jail term up to three years, and offences of Rs 1-2 crore may attract imprisonment of one year. However, any change in the law will have to be made through the introduction of an amendment Bill that will have to be approved by the Parliament.
UPDATE 1-Protests intensify in India over demands for election chief to quit
Thousands of youth protesters and opposition supporters rallied in Delhi and Mumbai on Sunday to demand the resignation of India's election commission chief over changes to voter
Protests against CEC Gyanesh Kumar continue in Delhi; AISA, AAP workers take to streets
Protests demanding CEC Gyanesh Kumars resignation continued in Delhi, as AISA and AAP workers demonstrated amid allegations of police misconduct involving three women journalists.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) After missing last years edition due to injury, two-time former champion Vaidehee Chaudhari is back at the National Tennis Championship and has her eyes firmly set on reclaiming the trophy. Main draw action at the 31st National Tennis Championship gets underway at DLTA on Monday with Chaudhari leading the womens field along with Shruthi Ahlawat, Sonal Patil and Akanksha Nitture. I will focus on one match at a time. I won in 2022 and 2024, but last year I couldn't play because I was injured, Chaudhari said ahead of her first-round match. I am happy to be back again here and I will do my best. And obviously, my eyes are on the winning trophy. So definitely, I will do my best. With the main draw yet to be released, Chaudhari is keeping the focus on herself for now. I am working on all the parts of my game, she added. Right now, I am just focusing on the one match at a time because I don't know who am I playing against. When the draw will be out, we will see who my first opponent is. For now, I will focus on my game. Defending champion Manish Sureshkumar will lead the mens draw, which also includes Nitin Kumar Sinha, Aditya Balsekar and Udit Kamboj. The Boys and Girls under-18 competitions will take place alongside the mens and womens events this week. The boys field features Delhis Praneel Sharma, Karnatakas Prakaash Sarran, Gujarats Om Patel and Haryanas Harsh Malik while Tamil Nadus Savitha Bhubaneshwaran, Maharashtras Parthsarthi Mundhe and Swanika Roy, and Karnatakas Shreeniti Chowdhury headline the girls competition. The Under-16 and Under-14 events follow, with qualifying on October 1011 and main rounds starting the following week.
Saurabh Bharadwaj Alleges Police Manhandled Him During India Gate Protest
AAP Delhi chief Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged that police personnel manhandled him during a protest march to India Gate against CEC Gyanesh Kumar. He said he was picked up and thrown around like a football.
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Indias supercomputing capabilities are expanding rapidly, with the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) enabling wider access to high-performance computing for applications ranging from artificial intelligence and weather forecasting to healthcare, disaster management and space research, the government said on Sunday. Indias supercomputing journey has evolved significantly since the development of PARAM 8000 in the early 1990s, with the country now building a national high-performance computing ecosystem under the NSM, launched in April 2015. As of September 2026, the mission has deployed 40 supercomputers with a combined computing capacity of 68 petaflops (PF), strengthening access to advanced computing infrastructure across research and academic institutions. The government said high-performance computing is increasingly essential for accelerating scientific discovery and technological innovation, particularly as Indias digital ecosystem continues to generate large volumes of data. India generates nearly 20 per cent of the worlds data, while emerging applications such as artificial intelligence, weather prediction, climate modelling and space research require increasingly powerful computing infrastructure. Supercomputers enable massive datasets to be processed and complex simulations to be conducted at much faster speeds by combining large numbers of processors to perform calculations simultaneously. This makes them critical infrastructure for advanced scientific research and strategic applications. The government said HPC is already supporting applications with direct societal benefits, including crop-yield prediction, disease-outbreak tracking, drug discovery and forecasting areas likely to be affected by river floods. The technology is also being used across areas such as Computational Biology, Weather Prediction and Climate Modelling, Disaster Management, Big Data Analytics and Astrophysics, helping researchers tackle increasingly complex scientific and technological challenges. The National Supercomputing Mission was launched with an outlay of around Rs 4,500 crore and is jointly steered by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The mission aims to strengthen self-reliance in supercomputing and build indigenous high-performance computing capabilities in India. It promotes the use of supercomputing for research, development and problem-solving across a range of scientific and technological disciplines, while also developing solutions for societal applications. The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Pune, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, are implementing the mission. Under the NSM, India is also developing indigenous technologies covering servers, software, cooling systems and networking, alongside expanding its supercomputing infrastructure.
AISA chief Neha Bora 'picked up in private vehicle'
AISA national president Neha Bora was allegedly detained by Delhi Police in a private vehicle during a protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar near Jantar Mantar. Activists claim procedural violations, including the absence of a woman police officer. This incident is part of ongoing demonstrations demanding the CEC's resignation, sparked by an investigation into objections raised by other Election Commissioners regarding the SIR process.
DDA conducts month-long 'Swachhata Hi Seva' campaign at parks, sports complexes
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Led by Delhi Lieutenant Governor (L-G) T.S. Sandhu, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is conducting an extensive month-long 'Swachhata Hi Seva' campaign across its parks, green spaces and sports complexes with a focus on involving local communities, an official said on Sunday. The campaign focuses on special initiatives like 'Children to the Green - Learn, Care & Participate', 'Bin Before Overflow' and 'Capital's Promise', along with cleanliness and environmental awareness activities, as suggested by L-G Sandhu, who is also the Chairperson of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). With a focus on cleanliness, environmental improvement, public awareness and Jan Bhagidari, the campaign commenced on September 17 in the spirit of the 'Swachhta Hi Seva 2026', the official said in a statement. The campaign continues with a series of cleanliness, sanitation, plantation, awareness and public participation activities, it said, adding that DDA officials and staff, along with 75 resident welfare associations, students, children, park users and people associated with public spaces, are participating in activities aimed at improving the cleanliness and upkeep of these facilities. The campaign includes three special initiatives. The 'Children to the Green - Learn, Care & Participate' involves children and students in cleanliness and environmental awareness activities and encourages them to develop a sense of responsibility towards parks, trees and natural resources. It aims to encourage young participants to become active contributors to a culture of cleanliness and environmental care. The 'Bin Before Overflow' initiative focuses on regular monitoring and timely emptying of dustbins in parks. The initiative seeks to prevent overflowing bins, littering and unhygienic conditions, while encouraging greater attention towards everyday cleanliness in public spaces. The cleanliness drive has been carried out in Saket Sports Complex, Netaji Subhash Sports Complex, Squash and Badminton Stadium, Hari Nagar Sports Complex, Paschim Vihar Sports Complex, Dwarka Sports Complexes in Sectors-11 and 17, Major Dhyan Chand Sports Complex, Rashtriya Swabhiman Khel Parisar, Poorv Delhi Khel Parisar, Chilla Sports Complex, Yamuna Sports Complex, Qutab Golf Course and DDA Lake View Golf Course, the statement said. Activities included cleaning and sanitation works of sports and its recreational facilities, parking areas, green spaces, and other public-use areas, along with upkeep of landscaped areas. Around 2.5 tonnes of waste was collected during the drive from the sports complexes. As part of the effort to promote a cleaner campus, single-use plastic bottles were prohibited and water dispensers and steel dustbins were installed. New twin dustbins -- in green and blue were also installed to facilitate segregation of wet and dry waste, along with anti-littering signage, it added.
Protests intensify in India over demands for election chief to quit
Thousands of youth protesters and opposition supporters rallied in Delhi and Mumbai on Sunday to demand the resignation of India's election commission chief over changes to voter rolls, as police
Indias growth prospects, infrastructure make it attractive investment destination: Global experts
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Indias strong growth prospects, expanding infrastructure and growing international credibility are increasingly positioning the country as an attractive destination for global investors, experts said on Sunday on the sidelines of the Kautilya Economic Conclave 2026. The three-day conclave brought together economists, policymakers and experts from across the world to discuss the challenges confronting the global economy, including geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, energy security, climate risks and the changing international economic order. Swedish economist Erik Berglof said the quality and global participation at the Kautilya Economic Conclave had improved significantly since its inception, with this years event witnessing participation from a larger number of countries and delegates. Against the backdrop of heightened uncertainty in the global economy, Berglof said discussions on strengthening economic resilience were particularly relevant as countries grapple with risks to energy supplies, trade and global supply chains. Indias growth prospects are strong and the country has achieved impressive economic momentum since the Covid-19 pandemic, Berglof told IANS. Berglof noted that while governments had taken measures to cushion households and businesses from the impact of global disruptions, prolonged support could also put pressure on public finances. Maintaining economic momentum while managing fiscal risks, he said, would remain a key challenge for policymakers. Climate change emerged as another major theme at the conclave, with Juliano Assuncao, executive director of Brazil-based Climate Policy Initiative, describing it as one of the most significant shared risks facing the global economy. Climate change is not an issue for any single country and addressing it will require international cooperation, Assuno told IANS, adding that India and Brazil could play an important role not only as countries affected by climate change but also as part of the global solution. New Zealand economist Prof John Gibson said the Kautilya Economic Conclave had evolved into an important platform for dialogue between researchers and policymakers, with discussions extending beyond India to broader developments across the Asia-Pacific region and the global economy. Japans Institute of Geoeconomics director Kazuto Suzuki highlighted the growing overlap between economics, geopolitics and geoeconomics in shaping investment and business decisions.
Jantar Mantar protest: AISA president Neha Bora detained during protest demanding CEC
All India Students' Association (AISA) national president Neha Bora was detained by Delhi Police on Sunday while leading a protest march from Andhra Bhawan towards Jantar Mantar, as students and youth demonstrated for the third consecutive day demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protesters attempted to move towards Jantar Mantar despite heavy police barricading and security deployment in the area. The mobilisation began near Andhra Bhawan Circle on Ashoka Road, with AISA members and supporters raising slogans against the Election Commission as they marched towards Jantar Mantar. Police stopped the protesters and detained several of them as they attempted to proceed towards the designated protest site. Speaking to ANI, one of the protesters alleged that police manhandled protesters during the demonstration. We will not tolerate this
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta inaugurates 45 kW solar plant at Harewli Gaushala
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Delhi police detain AISA president Neha Bora at Jantar Mantar protest
The News Mill
Delhi CM inaugurates 45 kW solar plant at Harewli Gaushala, performs 'Gau Puja'
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the Harewli Gaushala, where she inaugurated a newly constructed building alongside a 45 kW solar energy plant, and performed traditional rituals with her family on Sunday. Taking to X, the Chief Minister shared details of her visit, emphasising the importance of bovine care and sustainable energy. Today, I had the supreme fortune, along with my family, of performing the sacred fire ritual and worship, cow worship, cow donation, and fodder service at Harewli Gaushala. I spent time among the mother cows receiving special care at the gaushala and closely observed the arrangements for their service, the Chief Minister posted. Highlighting the green energy initiative at the facility, she noted, On this occasion, the inauguration of the gaushala's newly constructed building and a 45 kW capacity solar energy plant was also conducted. This solar plant is a meaningful initiative toward connecting the gaushala to clean energy. Underlining the cultural...
Raahgiri Day: Delhi walkers, cyclists reclaim Inner Circle of Connaught Place
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The Inner Circle of Connaught Place came alive with energy, enthusiasm and community participation as Raahgiri Day, in collaboration with Sundays on Cycle, was organised on Sunday morning, with New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) Chairman Manoj Kumar Dwivedi calling it a step for a cleaner and pollution-free Delhi. Hosting Raahgiri at Connaught Place sends a strong and positive message for a cleaner and pollution-free Delhi. Through their enthusiastic participation in cycling, fitness and other activities, the youth are inspiring the entire city to adopt healthier and more sustainable modes of mobility, Dwivedi said. Delhi Minister Ashish Sood said that Raahgiri is not merely an initiative for individual fitness but a celebration of the health and well-being of Delhi as a whole. The event, organised with the participation of various government partners, promoted the vision of active, healthy, inclusive and sustainable urban living, encouraging citizens to reclaim public spaces for walking, cycling, fitness, recreation and community interaction. The NDMC Chairperson said the collective participation of our young citizens also demonstrates the power of youth in uniting Delhi against pollution. Raahgiri represents a meaningful change in the way we look at our public spaces, while reinforcing the importance of environmental protection, safer roads and the rights and safety of cyclists and pedestrians. It is a movement towards a healthier, safer and more sustainable Delhi, Dwivedi added. Special Commissioner of Delhi Police (Traffic) Ajay Chaudhary said that Raahgiri is an important platform to promote responsible road behaviour and create greater awareness about traffic safety among citizens. I appeal to all Delhiites to strictly follow traffic rules, as responsible driving not only reduces the risk to one's own life but also makes our roads safer for everyone. Practices such as triple riding and driving on the wrong side of the road must be avoided and discontinued immediately, he added. Chaudhary also said that controlling pollution requires collective as well as individual responsibility. Each one of us must contribute through responsible mobility choices and personal efforts to help maintain Delhi's Air Quality Index at a healthier and more sustainable level, he added. Delhi Minister Sood said that by making Connaught Place vehicle-free and creating space for activities such as cycling, yoga, zumba, skating, badminton, tug-of-war and musical performances, Raahgiri provides citizens with an opportunity every Sunday to reclaim public spaces. Cycling is a powerful means of protecting the environment, as it not only contributes to reducing air pollution but also promotes physical fitness and a healthier lifestyle, the Minister added. He said that the Delhi government is making every effort to develop dedicated cycling tracks across the city and is also implementing various measures under the Electric Vehicle Policy to curb air pollution and promote cleaner mobility.
Delhi: AISA, other groups hold protest march near Ashok Road demanding CEC's resignation
Members of the All India Students' Association (AISA) and several other organisations took out a protest march near Ashok Road in the national capital, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Earlier on Saturday, Delhi Police detained several members of the All India Students' Association (AISA) during a protest near Jantar Mantar against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, as demonstrations over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls continued in the national capital. Several protesters, including AISA president Neha Bora and senior advocates Prashant Bhushan and Kapil Sibal, attempted to breach police barricades near Jantar Mantar and move forward. Praising the participants, Bora said on X, Our Heroes! I hope that when we are your age, we are as strong and steadfast as you all! She shared pictures with Sibal, Bhushan and others. Meanwhile, Delhi Police have registered at least three FIRs in connection with the mass prote...
AISA president Neha taken away in a car with only male police officers, whereabouts unknown
Neha has been picked up this vehicle with no women police officer inside the car; this is a blatant violation by the Delhi police, said an AISA representative
'Target is to qualify on the first chance': Lovlina sets sights on LA28 Olympics after Asiad gold
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Fresh from her Asian Games gold medal, Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain has already turned her attention towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, with the 2027 World Boxing Championships set to provide the first opportunity to secure qualification. With the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) deciding that Asian Games medallists will be the main entries for the 2027 World Boxing Championships in Kazakhstan, the first official qualifying event for the LA 2028 Olympics, Lovlina wants to make the most of the pathway and seal her Olympic berth at the earliest opportunity. We always try our best to qualify in the first qualification (chance) only. It is a very good thing for an athlete. The way hockey has done it, they will get a long time to prepare. Our target is to qualify in the first qualification, get a good time and get good results, Lovlina told IANS on Sunday. The prospect of securing qualification early would give Lovlina and the other successful boxers a longer runway to prepare specifically for the Olympics. For an athlete already familiar with the demands of the Games, the priority now is to ensure that the qualification process does not become a prolonged battle and that sufficient preparation time is available once the ticket to LA28 is secured. Her Asian Games triumph has strengthened that belief. But Lovlina does not view the medal simply as a response to the disappointment of Paris, where she missed out on a podium finish. Instead, she wants to enjoy what she has achieved without allowing the pressure to prove herself to overshadow the accomplishment. I have not thought of anything like that. I just said that I have won the moment. This is my medal. I just have to enjoy it. I dont have to answer anyone. I dont have to prove anything. I dont have to do anything. I just have to enjoy my medal, she added. The Asian Games also offered Lovlina a wider view of the progress being made in Indian boxing. The recent medal-winning performances across weight categories, including the heavier divisions, have pointed to a growing depth within the national programme. Lovlina believes the change is not about one category working harder than another, but about athletes developing the mentality required to consistently compete for medals. I think everyone does hard work. Everyone does hard work. Both heavyweight and lightweight boxers work equally hard. Everyone does the same amount of hard work. Sometimes you get a medal, sometimes you dont. But the hard work is not less. I know, we stay in the camp. Every athlete works so hard and is so focused. So, the mindset has changed somewhere between our athletes. We have a champion mindset. That is why we are doing well. And we are getting support from the government. That is also the reason why our performance is good, the boxer stated. For Lovlina, that champion mindset begins with trusting the process and, more importantly, trusting oneself. She believes that lesson is particularly important for young boxers entering a sport where setbacks are inevitable. I would like to say that it is more important to trust yourself. The world will say anything. You should never break your trust. If you think you can do it, then you can do it, she mentioned. The Asian Games gold also gave Lovlina another reminder of why athletes endure the difficult periods of their careers. For her, few moments compare with standing on the podium while the national anthem plays. It is a very good feeling. We are not allowed to go around the world with our national flag. But when the national anthem is played, our flag comes up. That is a very special moment. That feeling is the dream of every athlete. To finish that podium and play our national anthem, Lovlina expressed. The next target, however, is already clear. With the first LA28 qualification event providing an opportunity to secure her place early, Lovlina wants to convert her Asian Games momentum into an Olympic berth and then use the additional preparation time to arrive in Los Angeles fully prepared for another shot at the biggest stage.
Delhi Police detain AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj at India Gate protest
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The protest demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has entered day three on Sunday, October 4 with police detained over a dozen workers of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) who were protesting at India Gate here.The party's Delhi unit chief Saurabh Bharadwaj and MLA Sanjeev Jha were among the detainees. The left student wing AISA's President Neha Bora has also been detained, as per sources.
Facts over fearmongering: BJP counters Cong over 13 crore 'deletions', shares 'explainer' on SIR
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Amid widespread controversy over the discrepancies in the Election Commission's 'flawed and partisan' Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and Opposition's clamour for action, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday issued a detailed rebuttal of charges while accusing Congress, the principal opposition party, of resorting to 'fearmongering'. BJP General Secretary Vinod Tawde shared an 'explainer' video on his X account, to counter and debunk the litany of charges against the Election Commission (EC) and also reject accusations of ruling BJP's involvement in the whole episode. The 'explainer' video addresses slew of issues ranging from 13 crore voter deletions, purported changes in Form-6, alteration in ECINET format, among many others. The 13 crore names were not deleted -- they were flagged for verification in categories such as deceased, absent, transferred, or duplicate. The final action takes place after the processing of claims, objections, and appeals, BJP leader Tawde said, recently appointed as the party's Uttar Pradesh In-charge. Giving break-up of the proposed deletions in draft electoral rolls, it explains that about 2.6 crore voters were recorded dead, three crore absent at given address, 6.3 crore permanently shifted to different locations and one crore duplicate voters were registered. It also adds that the detailed information was shared with about 20 lakh booth level agents of all parties. No changes were made to alter Form-6. All three Election Commissioners were in consonance on the additional details added with the Form-6 and it had the approval of Supreme Court, it claims. The 'explainer' video also rejects claims of centralisation, saying that there was no structural change in the framework and the local EC staff, including Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) were fully equipped to handle voters' request at local level. The BJP leader accused the Congress of indulging in fearmongering, in a bid to conceal the facts and also urged people to follow the facts rather than getting swayed by Opposition's 'lies and fakery'. Saying that SIR's objective is to include every voter and not disenfranchise anyone, it informs that 2.3 crore new Gen-Z voters have been added so far since the SIR drive started last year and today, the total strength of Gen-Z voters stands at 17.3 crore. Dismissing the 'vote chori' allegations as means to befool and mislead the electorate, it says the poll panel always acted within the statutory powers and the SIR drive in all states that went to polls (Bihar and West Bengal) were duly upheld by the apex court.
Key economic reforms in last decade have made India resilient amid global shocks: Shaktikanta Das
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Indias broad range of economic reforms rolled out over the past decade have created stronger institutions, macroeconomic stability and led to investment in productive sectors, which have made the country resilient amid successive global shocks that have slowed the world economy, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Shaktikanta Das, said on Sunday. Addressing the Kautilya Economic Conclave here, Das, a former Reserve Bank of India Governor and former Economic Affairs Secretary in the Union Finance Ministry, said that key reforms implemented in the last 10 years were not designed as one-off measures, but as systemic buffers that enabled the economy to absorb disruptions and recover rapidly. He highlighted flexible inflation targeting, the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax, the expansion of digital payments and banking-sector reforms among the key reforms that have strengthened Indias economy. Das said Indias performance stood out against a global backdrop marked by geopolitical uncertainty, trade fragmentation, technological restrictions, energy-price volatility and high public debt in advanced economies. He said that Indias real GDP grew 7.8 per cent in the first quarter of 2026-27, supported by strong domestic demand and investment, and the country is within striking distance of 8 per cent growth. He cited the above 8 per cent growth recorded over the four quarters from July-September 2025 to April-June 2026-27 to back his argument. Das identified macroeconomic stability as the second major pillar of Indias resilience. The flexible inflation-targeting framework rolled out in 2016 enabled India to navigate successive shocks including the Covid pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in West Asia, he noted. He further stated that the governments policy of sustained fiscal consolidation without compromising on growth-supporting expenditure had helped to stabilise the economy. The tax reforms, including GST, which created an integrated national market, reduced cascading taxes, and expanded formalisation of the economy. He highlighted the restoration of the health of the countrys banking sector as another defining feature of Indias resilience. Das underscored that large-scale spending on transport and logistics, backed by initiatives such as PM Gati Shakti, the National Logistics Policy, Sagarmala and UDAN, had reduced economic friction and strengthened the foundation for investment-led growth. India has also diversified its energy base across fossil fuels, renewables, biofuels and nuclear energy, making the economy better positioned to withstand external energy shocks, he added. Das said India was also witnessing a manufacturing resurgence, supported by production-linked incentives, semiconductor investments, automation and Industry 4.0 technologies. He identified artificial intelligence, deeper financial markets, strategic self-reliance, sustainable development and human capital as the five areas that could define the next phase of Indias growth. Sustaining the reform momentum will be very critical as Indias objective was not simply to grow rapidly, but to grow sustainably and resiliently over the long term, he added.
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India, Canada to kick off 5th round of trade talks tomorrow
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) India and Canada will kick off the fifth round of negotiations for their proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Ottawa on Monday as both sides aim to conclude the trade pact by the end of 2026. The five-day round, led by the chief negotiators of the two countries, will continue till October 9. The previous round concluded in New Delhi on September 18, with officials now pushing for faster progress towards a final agreement. The trade negotiations have gained additional momentum as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Canada around December, when the two countries plan to conclude the final deal. Meanwhile, Canada's Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu is scheduled to visit New Delhi later this month with a 300-member business delegation. Prime Minister Modi and his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney set a year-end target to complete the negotiations for the CEPA between the two countries and agreed to deepen bilateral collaboration in the energy and critical mineral sectors during their meeting in New Delhi in March this year. The leaders expressed confidence that a comprehensive trade framework would serve as a durable economic anchor for the partnership and support the shared aspiration of expanding bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion (Rs 4.65 lakh crore) by 2030, according to the joint statement issued after their summit. India-Canada bilateral trade in goods stood at $8.66 billion in 2024-25, while Indias exports to the country touched $4.22 billion. Major items of Indias exports to Canada include pharmaceutical products, machinery parts and mechanical appliances, iron & steel articles, electronic goods, organic chemicals, jewellery, gems & precious stones, garments and textiles, seafood, engineering goods and auto parts. Indias major imports from Canada include pulses, fertilisers, mineral fuels, wood pulp, gems & precious stones, aircraft parts, machinery parts, and iron and aluminium scrap. Indias IT sector is the main contributor to services exports to Canada. PM Carneys visit to India set the tone for a marked improvement in diplomatic ties between the two countries that had hit rock bottom during his predecessor Justin Trudeaus tenure. The Trudeau government was seen to be encouraging Sikh extremists to pursue an anti-India agenda in Canada as part of their electoral politics.
Vice President Emphasizes Non-Violence and Forgiveness at Jain Festival in New Delhi
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan highlights the importance of forgiveness and non-violence at a Jain festival in New Delhi. Vice President Emphasizes Non-Violence and Forgiveness at Jain Festival in New Delhi
FSSAI orders recall of Everest cumin powder batch over excess pesticide residues
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said on Sunday that it has directed the recall of a batch of Everest-brand pre-packed cumin powder after laboratory tests found pesticide residues beyond the permissible limits, leading to the product being classified as unsafe under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. According to an FSSAI notification, the affected batch was found to contain residues of the pesticides azoxystrobin and thiamethoxam at levels exceeding the prescribed maximum limits. The regulatory sample of the pre-packed cumin powder was collected from the premises of Riverside Resorts & Holiday Homes Pvt. Ltd. in Goa for testing. A regulatory sample of Pre-packed Cumin Powder was drawn from the premises of Riverside Resorts & Holiday Homes Pvt. Ltd., Goa. The food analyst's report found pesticide residues of Azoxystrobin and Thiamethoxam at levels exceeding the prescribed maximum limits, the food regulator stated. The Food Analyst declared the sample UNSAFE under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, it added. FSSAI said the product's manufacturer was given an opportunity to appeal against the findings of the food analyst. Following the appeal process, the sample was referred to a Referral Food Laboratory, which confirmed the earlier findings that the product was unsafe for consumption due to the excessive pesticide residues. Based on the laboratory findings, the food regulator ordered the immediate recall of the entire affected batch of Everest pre-packed cumin powder bearing Batch No. E080668761 from the market. The regulator has also directed the food business operator (FBO) to maintain complete records of the recalled products and submit the required recall information and status reports within the stipulated timelines. Additionally, the company has been asked to implement corrective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future and submit a compliance report upon completion of the recall process. The FBO was provided an opportunity to appeal against the Food Analyst's report, following which the sample was referred to the Referral Food Laboratory. The Referral Food Laboratory confirmed that the sample was UNSAFE, as Azoxystrobin and Thiamethoxam were found above the prescribed maximum limits, the regulator stated.
Vice President Emphasizes Non-Violence and Forgiveness at Jain Festival
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan highlights the importance of non-violence and forgiveness at the Mahaprav Kshamapana Ceremony in New Delhi. Vice President Emphasizes Non-Violence and Forgiveness at Jain Festival
Anti-CEC stir: Bora picked up in unauthorised car, says AISA
New Delhi: All India Students Association (AISA) activists on Sunday, October 4, alleged that their president Neha Bora was picked up in an unauthorised vehicle as they staged a third consecutive day of protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. In a 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 .
Substantial agenda for emerging and middle powers to cooperate: EAM Jaishankar
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar said on Sunday that there is a substantial agenda for emerging and middle powers to cooperate in today's world. Addressing the opening session of the Munich Leaders Meeting 2026 here on Sunday, EAM Jaishankar laid out a roadmap for cooperation among emerging and middle powers, spanning various sectors like international security, trade, resilient supply chains, healthcare, talent mobility, connectivity, climate action and defence. What could be the agenda for emerging and middle powers? I would share my thoughts in terms of a few ideas which occurred to me. One obviously would be international peace and security. That if there are conflicts going on, if there are frictions, if there are tensions, other than the biggest countries, can other nations pool their resources, back each other's diplomacy up, try to do something out there. EAM Jaishankar noted that the negotiations between India and the European Union came to a head as there was a realisation on both sides that deepening of economic engagement was needed in the transforming world. Another obvious area, of course, is investment and trade itself. And a good example is what happened this year between India and the European Union, that we had almost 25 years of negotiation and that negotiation came to a head because I think there was a realisation on both sides that in the transforming world it was essential that our economic engagement was intensified and the barriers to it removed. But, there are different domains, I would argue, enough cause for middle and emerging and middle countries, middle players to come together, he said. He highlighted that the reality of the world today is that demand is not where there are demographics and said that the best way to level that out is through the flow of talent and skills. He said that advanced manufacturing also requires a certain amount of mobility to remain sustainable. He stressed that emerging and middle powers can cooperate in supply chain resilience. Supply chain resilience is one. As I said, different countries have different strengths. You don't have to be the biggest country in the world to dominate the world of chips or to even produce the machines which are necessary today for semiconductor production. You can have areas like health. Today, health security warrants a much more diversified production of APIs and pharmaceuticals. EAM Jaishankar said that middle and emerging powers can cooperate in connectivity and climate action. He stated that a large part of the world experiences climate change and there is dominant thinking and compulsion in the world to cooperate on climate action. Even in a field like defence, because the old... who produces and who consumes in defence, the old systems, the orthodoxies are changing; a smarter defence comes into being. New producers are coming up, and new producers are not located necessarily in the same countries and in the same companies where they used to be in the past. Defence space is, again, an area which has seen some dramatic transformations. So, I would argue that there is today a substantial agenda for emerging and middle powers to cooperate. The world is changing. Its agenda is changing. The landscape is changing. The architecture is changing. And I'm very glad today that we have this issue as a starting point before us because I hope that it would give our gathering a stronger purpose and a clearer direction as we begin our deliberations, he added.
V-P Radhakrishna says compassion, unity key to building Viksit Bharat@2047
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday called upon people to nurture the values of humility, compassion, service, unity and responsibility while building Viksit Bharat@2047. Addressing the Mahaparva Kshamapana Ceremony 2026, organised by the Bhagwan Mahavir Memorial Committee and Jain Mahasabha Delhi at Vigyan Bhawan, Radhakrishnan said that development must go beyond economic prosperity, modern infrastructure and technological advancement. He said a truly developed India must also have trust among citizens, values within families, character among youth and compassion in society, in keeping with the vision of Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi. Highlighting the deep historical connection between Tamil Nadu and Jainism, Radhakrishnan said Jainism has made significant contributions to Tamil literature and culture. He recalled the contributions of Jain scholars and monks to classical Tamil literature and noted the presence of ancient Jain temples and centres of learning across Tamil Nadu. Emphasising the universal message of Jain philosophy, the Vice-President said the teaching of friendship towards all living beings and enmity towards none resonates with Indias civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. In a world witnessing conflict and violence, he said, the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavira offer a path towards peace, dialogue, coexistence and compassion. The Vice President said Ahimsa is not merely the absence of physical violence, but also the absence of violence in thought, word and deed. He said Bhagwan Mahavira showed humanity the path of inner victory, reminding people that true strength lies in conquering anger, intolerance and revenge. The Vice President described the occasion as a celebration of universal values of forgiveness, friendship, non-violence and inner purification. On the occasion, he also presented the Jain Samaj Ratna Award to K.C. Jain. Those present included Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria; President, Bhagwan Mahavir Memorial Committee, Kanhaiya Lal Jain; President, Jain Mahasabha Delhi, Dinesh Doshi; Acharya Visuddh Sagarji Muniraj; Vipin Jain, General Secretary, Shree Jain Tarun Samaj Bhagwan Mahaveer Memorial Samiti; Munishri Udit Kumar; Munishri Tirth Nirvaan Vijay and Upadhyay Ravinder Muni.
INDIA Bloc Parties To Hold Joint Delhi Protest Against SIR On October 7
Congress, CPI, CPI(M), RJD, NCP, RSP To Demand Gyanesh Kumars Resignation
Australia launches probe into flydubai incident following reports of co-pilot's link
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Days after Captain Smit Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot aboard the flydubai flight FZ1073 in an alleged attempt to crash the plane, Australia has launched an investigation into the incident following reports that the latter spent two years in the country as a student. In a heroic act, Captain Machchhar, an Indian, saved 170 lives on board the Tel Aviv-bound flight despite being attacked by the cockpit crash axe and being badly injured. The co-pilot, identified as 29-year-old Hamam al-Hammami from Oman, was granted an Australian student visa in 2014, before arriving in the country to commence a university course the following year, the UK's The Guardian reported, citing a source familiar with the case. His visa was cancelled in 2019 after he reportedly left the country in 2017. Authorities confirmed he was no longer enrolled in the course, the source said. Al-Hammami studied engineering at an Australian university, as reported by several media outlets, citing his now-deleted LinkedIn profile. However, it was not immediately known which university he attended. The United Arab Emirates, which is leading the investigation, has called the in-flight brawl a errorist attack. Meanwhile, the crew of the flydubai flight reportedly clashed with Israeli passengers after they subdued the axe-wielding co-pilot who had attacked Captain Machchhar. The passengers, however, refused to release the hijacker despite demands from the cabin crew, according to a media report. Two Israeli passengers who helped restrain the co-pilot said the crew members repeatedly asked them to free the attacker, leaving the passengers suspicious of the crew's intentions, reports the New York Post. They were asking us to untie the terrorist -- we had no idea why, banking executive Tzvika Manes, one of the three civilians who helped overpower the alleged would-be hijacker, said in an exclusive interview with the New York Post. Real estate professional Daniel Schlichter, who was seated in the second row close to the cockpit, also recalled the tense confrontation with the crew. They were saying to free the terrorist -- we got instantly suspicious of them, Schlichter told The Post. The disagreement escalated into an argument, with the Israeli passengers making it clear that they would not release the co-pilot under any circumstances. A video shared by i24NEWS, an Israel-based news channel, showed al-Hammami kneeling inside the aircraft with his hands tied behind his back. His clothes appeared to have bloodstains on them. In the 45-second video, passengers can repeatedly be heard saying just police and only police, indicating that they intended to hand the restrained co-pilot over to law enforcement authorities rather than harm him.
India can launch surgical strikes on Pakistan, but can't hold talks: Mani Shankar Aiyar
Mani Shankar Aiyar criticised the BJP-led government for avoiding dialogue with Pakistan despite military actions taken. He proposed holding discussions at the Attari-Wagah border to facilitate continuous communication between both nations. Aiyar emphasised the importance of addressing unresolved issues through dialogue rather than arguing about the past. He highlighted the need for political unity among non-Hindutva factions to influence Delhi's policies.
AAP, AISA Protests Intensify In Delhi After 650 Detained Over Two Days
Sunday Mobilisation Follows Detention Of Over 150 Protesters On Saturday
'Three Major champions playing in India Championship is very big thing': PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) India is set to witness a rare gathering of golfs biggest names as three reigning Major champions, Rory McIlroy, Ryan Fox and Aaron Rai, prepare to compete together for the first time in the country at the India Championship, scheduled to be held at the Delhi Golf Club from October 15 to 18. The second edition of the tournament will feature eight players from the worlds top 20, adding significant global star power to an event that is emerging as one of the major attractions on Indias golfing calendar. Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) CEO and Delhi Golf Club captain Amandeep Johl said the presence of three reigning major champions in the same field was a landmark moment for Indian golf. For the first time in India, three reigning major championship winners will play together in one golf tournament. Rory McIlroy, Ryan Fox and Aaron Rai, who are three Major champions, will be here. This is a very big thing for Indian golf, Johl told IANS. McIlroy, the Career Grand Slam winner, will be joined by 2026 Open Championship winner Ryan Fox and Rai, who claimed his maiden Major title at the PGA Championship earlier this year. Rai, who has Indian and Kenyan heritage, had earlier expressed his excitement about making his India Championship debut. Im excited to travel to Delhi for the India Championship this year. Ive heard a lot about the event, and with connections to India throughout my family, there is a lot to look forward to across the week, Rai had said. The star-studded field will also include defending champion Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, Justin Rose, Bubba Watson and Patrick Reed, along with European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, Viktor Hovland and Min Woo Lee. Indian golfers Shubhankar Sharma and Anirban Lahiri will lead the home challenge, with around 27 Indian players expected to feature in the tournament. Johl also highlighted the uniqueness of the Delhi Golf Club course, which is expected to provide a stern test to the world-class field. Delhi Golf Club has one of the most unique golf courses in the entire world, and the setting is such that the players are afraid to take out the driver earlier, he said.
CPI(M) leader Brinda Karat on Sunday slammed the Delhi Police over their handling of a sexual harassment complaint lodged by female journalists, sharply criticising authorities for demanding video proof before registering an FIR. Calling the police's response a clear violation of the law, Karat expressed outrage as protests erupted outside the Parliament Street Police Station, where demonstrators gathered to demand immediate legal action. Speaking to ANI regarding the police
Brinda Karat criticises Delhi Police for delay in FIR on journalists
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Akhilesh Yadav should definitely visit Ram Mandir, seek Lord's blessings: Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Uttar Pradesh Minister Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary said that Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav should definitely visit Ram Mandir and seek Lord Ram's blessings. Speaking to IANS, Chaudhary said, Akhilesh Yadav should definitely come to Ayodhya; Hanuman Garhi and the Ram Mandir are near. He should come. There is pain and regret in his heart after witnessing the growth and development of Ayodhya despite his wishes. Ram Mandir is the symbol of crores of Hindus' faith and devotion so he should definitely come. After all, development has happened, and Akhilesh Yadav can see it. Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav's scheduled visit to Ayodhya has drawn calls from several political leaders, urging him to visit the Ram Temple and seek the blessings of Lord Ram. SP leader Rajeev Rai said, Lord Ram first defeated Akhilesh Yadav in Lok Sabha elections, and then he (Lord Ram) guided Akhilesh ji to see the theft that is going on in Ram Mandir. Probably Lord Ram wants the sinners to be removed, and that's why Akhilesh Yadav might be going there. What is the issue in that? Meanwhile, Union Minister SP Singh Baghel said, In a democracy, everyone has the right to go wherever they want. Going to Ayodhya is their right. He can visit the temple for any political or societal reason. Whether they visit the temple or not it is their own decision. If they cannot go to the temple for the appeasement of a certain vote bank or the satisfaction of the Muslims, if he doesn't go to the temple owing to polarisation, then it is wrong, he added. India is a secular nation, and it doesn't ban anyone from going to any religious place, but if you have been avoiding a certain place of worship to appease a certain someone, then it is wrong, Baghel said. Uttar Pradesh Minister Sanjay Nishad said, Look, I welcome him (Akhilesh Yadav) to Ayodhya, even if it is late. He should also visit the Ram Temple for darshan because there is also a statue of Nishad Raj alongside Lord Ram. He should visit the temple and apologise for his past mistakes. A person can make mistakes, but we should apologise for our mistakes as well. BJP national spokesperson Ajay Alok said, Great, Ram Lalla's site will be wonderful! He should go and fall at Ram Lalla's feet, ask for forgiveness, and say, 'My father made a huge mistake by ordering fire on the kar sevaks. I haven't come here all this while because I was also wrong. Please forgive me.' We hope Ram Lalla will forgive him. Akhilesh Yadav is scheduled to visit Ayodhya on October 8 to attend the concluding session of the Shrimad Bhagwat Katha, a week-long religious programme organised by former MLA and SP leader Tej Narayan Pandey. The SP Chief is expected to spend around an hour at the programme in Krishnaapur-Khanpur Rasoolabad. He is also expected to offer prayers and interact with devotees attending the gathering. Akhilesh Yadav's Ayodhya visit comes at a politically significant time for the SP, with political activity beginning to gather pace ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. The party has earlier announced Tej Narayan Pandey, popularly known as Pawan Pandey, as its candidate from the Ayodhya Assembly constituency for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh polls.
Recent protests erupted outside the Parliament Street Police Station after a female journalist reported police misconduct. The Cockroach Janata Party has called for an FIR to be registered, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations. In response, the Delhi Police stated that the complaints have been handed over to the Crime Branch for investigation.
DSSSB Recruitment 2026: 641 Vacancies Announced, Online Applications Open October 6
Government job aspirants looking for an employment opportunity in Delhi have a new recruitment drive to consider. The Delhi Subordinate Services Selection Board (DSSSB) has announced vacancies for multiple posts, including Senior Personal Assistant, Junior Personal Assistant and Peon, among other po...
Centre's Pension Adalat to take up 897 grievances for redressal on Monday
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) As many as 897 long-pending grievances of super-senior pensioners and family pensioners will be taken up for redressal at the 17th Pension Adalat to be held on Monday under the chairmanship of Minister of State for Pension and Pensioners Welfare, Dr Jitendra Singh, according to an official statement issued on Sunday. These grievances of super-senior pensioners and family pensioners, pertaining to 24 Ministries and Departments and filed on the CPENGRAMS Portal, have been listed for redressal at the Pension Adalat at the T.N. Chaturvedi Memorial Hall, at the IIPA here. Super-senior pensioners, family pensioners, and their relatives from across the country will participate in the proceedings through hybrid mode, as complainants are being provided an opportunity to join the Pension Adalat either physically or through video conferencing, the statement said. During the proceedings, the minister will also release flyers highlighting the success stories of the 16th Pension Adalat, held on May 13. Further, a booklet containing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on issues concerning family pensioners will also be released, the statement added. The Pension Adalat is an innovative initiative undertaken by the Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare (DoPPW) for the on-the-spot redressal of grievances of Central government pensioners. It provides a common platform for all stakeholders concerned with a particular type of grievance to come together for the resolution of long-pending pension grievances. Thus, it works in the spirit of a Whole-of-Government Approach. The Pension Adalat, an alternative resolution mechanism, helps eliminate the need for expensive and time-consuming court proceedings, thereby offering an efficient and cost-effective mechanism to redress grievances. It is a commitment of the central government to reduce litigation. Since the introduction by DoPPW in 2017, Pension Adalats have emerged as an efficient and effective mechanism for resolving complicated and long-pending pension grievances. With a success rate of 71.79 per cent, the initiative has demonstrated its utility by resolving 20,676 out of a total of 28,797 grievances on the spot across its previous 16 editions. The remaining cases have also been redressed subsequent to the respective Pension Adalats through inter-ministerial review meetings, according to the statement.
Buying An EV In Delhi? 382 Charging Sites Get Govt Nod As Network Expands
The latest move comes as Delhi prepares for a larger adoption of electric vehicles, with the government seeking to expand charging infrastructure ahead of the mandatory electric-registration targets for different vehicle segments.
CJP protests outside Delhi police station over FIR refusal in alleged journalist harassment case
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Operation Clean Air: 17 Violations Found During Delhis Dust Inspection
A recent inspection under Operation Clean Air in Delhi uncovered 17 violations linked to dust and waste management. Operation Clean Air: 17 Violations Found During Delhis Dust Inspection
Protest against CEC Day 3: AISA activists attempt return to Jantar Mantar amid heavy barricading
AISA activists mobilized in Delhi for the third consecutive day, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Protesters clashed briefly with police as they attempted to cross barricades towards Jantar Mantar. Over 500 individuals, including students and political leaders, were previously detained during the demonstrations. The protests emerged in response to alleged irregularities in the Election Commission's handling of the electoral process.
Delhi: CAQM teams detect 17 violations of air pollution norms on Ring, Outer Ring roads
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Flying squads of the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas detected 17 violations of highly visible road dust and accumulation of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste during a special inspection drive on Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, an official said on Sunday. For the inspection drive, four flying squad teams constituted by the Commission were deployed to inspect roads under the jurisdiction of the Delhi Public Works Department (PWD), the official said in a statement. A total of 25 road stretches covering around 35 km of the Inner and Outer Ring Road were inspected during the drive conducted on Saturday, it said. The inspection was part of CAQM's efforts to strengthen implementation of dust mitigation measures and improve road cleanliness for effective abatement of air pollution across Delhi-NCR, the statement added. The inspection was undertaken to assess the presence of visible road dust and the effectiveness of road-cleaning and sweeping operations along the Ring Road. During the inspection, 17 violations of high visible road dust and accumulation of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste were reported across the inspected road stretches, the statement said. The observations made during the inspection indicate the need for strict and effective implementation of prescribed road-cleaning, sweeping and dust mitigation measures by the concerned road-owning agencies, it added. The Commission has emphasised that regular and effective road-cleaning and sweeping operations are critical for controlling road dust and preventing its resuspension due to vehicular movement. Accumulation of C&D waste and visible road dust on roadsides and carriageways can contribute to resuspension of dust due to vehicular movement and adversely impact ambient air quality, the statement added. Delhi's Public Works Department and other agencies are being directed to take appropriate corrective measures to control road dust on priority basis, the CAQM said. The Commission emphasised that road stretches under the jurisdiction of agencies concerned should be maintained in a clean and dust-free condition through regular sweeping, removal of accumulated dust and C&D waste, and timely corrective action. Inspection drives will continue under Operation Clean Air across Delhi-NCR to assess on-ground implementation of various air pollution abatement measures, identify gaps in compliance and facilitate timely corrective action(s) by the concerned agencies.
DDA launches month-long Swachhata Hi Seva campaign across Delhi parks and sports complexes
The News Mill
Bishop Devprasad Ganawa Passes Away at 74
Bishop Devprasad Ganawa Passes Away at 74 New Delhi (CCBI): Most Rev. Devprasad Ganawa, SVD, Bishop of Udaipur, passed away on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at the age of 74 following a massive cardiac arrest. He breathed his last at 11:45 a.m. at St Teresas Hospital, Udaipur. Bishop Ganawa experienced uneasiness and chest pain at [] The post Bishop Devprasad Ganawa Passes Away at 74 appeared first on Mangalorean.com .
Indian boxing contingent returns to New Delhi after winning multiple gold medals at Asian Games
The Indian boxing contingent has returned to New Delhi following a triumphant campaign at the 2026 Asian Games. Speaking to the media upon her arrival, boxer Lovlina Borgohain who clinched gold in the Womens 75 kg category on her birthday shared that the timing made the milestone particularly special. She noted that competing in her []
LS Speaker Om Birla reconstitutes several Parliamentary Committees
Staff Reporter / New Delhi Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has reconstituted several Parliamentary Committees related to different Ministries. BJP MP Bhartruhari Mahtab has been appointed as a chairperson of the Committee on Finance, comprising 21 members from Lok Sabha and 10 members of Rajya Sabha. Mr Birla has appointed Congress MP Shashi Tharoor as []
Delhi Police arrest fraudster in Mumbai after inter-state tracking in
The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police has arrested a wanted fraudster, Kushal Samir Mehta, for his alleged involvement in multiple high-value forgery cases involving fake government documents. Mehta was nabbed on October 1 at Mumbai's Borivali Railway Station following an extensive inter-state operation. Mehta is currently linked to two major cases in Delhi involving forged documents purportedly originating from central ministries, courts, and financial institutions, with a total defrauded or attempted value exceeding
16 assaulted in hate crimes in 2 months: UP poll watch report
New Delhi: In August and September, at least 70 Muslims were shot and injured in half-encounters in poll-bound Uttar Pradesh, according to a bulletin from the South Asia Justice Campaign (SAJC). These numbers are part of the first edition of the Election Watch-UP, 2027 report published recently. SAJC calls itself a non-partisan movement calling for 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 .
Aaryavir Sehwag named Delhi U19 captain for Vinoo Mankad Trophy
Aaryavir Sehwag named Delhi U19 captain for Vinoo Mankad Trophy
Diljit Dosanjh is bringing his Aura World Tour to seven Indian cities across November and December, with the India leg beginning in Delhi-NCR on November 1
Heavy industries ministry approves 382 sites for EV charging in Delhi
The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has approved 382 sites for setting up electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the national capital, Delhi Power Minister Ashish Sood said on Sunday. The Delhi government's Revenue Department and the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) had identified 456 sites for EV charging infrastructure, of which 382 were approved by the MHI, Sood said in a statement. Under the Delhi EV Policy, notified on June 30, all 382 sites were reassessed over the past three months for segment-wise deployment, with sites categorised separately for two-wheelers, three-wheelers and four-wheelers, he said. The site-level assessment was carried out to ensure that Delhi's charging network supports upcoming statutory mandates, including 100 per cent electric registrations for three-wheelers and N1 light commercial vehicles from January 1, 2027, and two-wheelers from April 1, 2028, Sood said. The government has onboarded KPMG as the Project Management Unit (PMU), and the .
Delhi women now needs Pink Saheli card for free DTC, cluster bus travel
The Delhi government has notified that women residents can avail free travel on DTC and cluster buses only through the 'Pink Saheli Smart Card', officials said on Sunday. The change has been made under the Delhi Transport Corporation (Free and Concessional Passes) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2026. Female passengers who are residents of Delhi can travel free in Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and cluster buses, both AC and non-AC, only with the use of Pink Saheli Smart Card (NCMC). However, they will have the option to purchase a ticket at the applicable fare for the journey, a Delhi Transport Department notification said. Women who are not eligible for the free travel facility can also travel on DTC and cluster buses by purchasing tickets at the applicable fare, it said. The provisions will also apply to transgender persons who are residents of Delhi, the notification added. Launched in March this year, the NCMC-based card replaced the paper-based pink tickets earlier issu
Delhi man held for killing wife with butcher's knife after row over suspected affair
Police detain protesters in Delhi as Gen Z-led campaign over voter rolls enters second day
POLICE in New Delhi detained several people on Saturday as they broke up a second day of protests against changes to India's voter rolls, led by the Gen Z-backed Cockroach Janta Party and other opposition groups. Protesters say the changes benefit Prime Minister Narendra Modi's governing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and are demanding the resignation of the chief election commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar. About 100 demonstrators removed security barricades and chanted vote thief, leave the post and Gyanesh Kumar, step down before police forcibly detained some of them. CJP takes on India's election chief: why Gen Z wants Gyanesh Kumar out Independent MP Kapil Sibal, All India Students' Association president Neha Bora and activists Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav were among the protesters, according to a Reuters witness. Police declined to say how many people had been detained or who they were. First they removed people from the voters list and now they are not letting us raise our voice against this. This is not acceptable, Bora told Reuters. Kumar has not commented on the protests or the calls for him to step down. On Friday, police stopped protesters from gathering and bundled them into buses, while several nearby metro stations stayed shut amid tight security. Many were later released, but several were charged with allegedly breaching orders banning mass gatherings in Delhi, according to a police source. Voters 'removed' Critics say a nationwide voter-verification exercise launched last year has led to millions of eligible voters being struck off electoral rolls. The Election Commission, long regarded as one of India's most trusted institutions, says the exercise is designed to remove duplicate, deceased or ineligible voters. On Friday, it directed officials to register newly eligible voters and those left off the rolls. The protests are the latest in a series of youth-led demonstrations this year, which Reuters describes as unprecedented pressure on Modi in his 12 years in power.
High commands decision final on alliance, says new UP Cong chief amid seat-sharing concerns with SP
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Amid the ongoing seat-sharing deadlock between Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP) in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, newly appointed state Congress president Aradhana Mishra has said the decision regarding the alliance will be taken by the party's high command. Mishra stressed that the INDIA bloc was formed at the national level and decisions concerning the alliance, whether at the state or central level, would be taken by the national leadership. I would like to reiterate that the INDI Alliance does not form alliances at the state level; it is formed at the national level. The national leaders of all the parties that are part of the alliance came together on one platform to form this alliance. Whatever decisions are taken, whether for the states or at the Centre, regarding the alliance will be decided by the national leadership, she told IANS. Her remarks come amid uncertainty over seat-sharing arrangements between Congress and the SP in Uttar Pradesh, where both parties are part of the INDIA bloc and are expected to coordinate their strategy against the BJP in the 2027 Assembly polls. Mishra said the Congress remained committed to the alliance, Congress stands with everyone. We have upheld the principles of alliance politics, and we will continue to do so. I would like to say that our goal today is to remove the corrupt and unsuccessful Bharatiya Janata Party government in 2027 and form an alliance government, she said. The UP Congress chief also spoke about Congress leader Rahul Gandhis Satyagraha portal, drawing a parallel with Mahatma Gandhis Satyagraha against British rule. Satyagraha was started by Mahatma Gandhi against the British. It was a movement that united the country. Today, another Gandhi has started this movement, and the circumstances are the same. Today, the countrys democracy and Constitution are under threat. The way Rahul Gandhis Satyagraha movement is gaining popularity makes it clear that things Rahul Gandhi said earlier, which people did not accept at the time, are now being understood, and people are relating to his views... Mishra said. She also reiterated Congress demand concerning the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that the exercise had led to the deletion of a large number of names from voter lists. A resolution to this effect was passed by our highest body, the CWC, and we demand that the process be stopped immediately. In the name of SIR, a large number of names have been deleted from the voter lists, affecting the election process. This happened when two members of the three-member Election Commission made serious allegations against their own Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, she said. Mishras comments come as Congress seeks to strengthen its organisation in Uttar Pradesh while maintaining the broader opposition alliance ahead of the crucial 2027 Assembly elections.
AI is a game-changer, but fallout for job market needs deft handling
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The rapid rise of artificial intelligence is seen as a game-changer, ushering in a new era with the technologys potential for unprecedented productivity gains through automated customer service and advanced medical diagnostics, to generative AI systems capable of producing text, code, and images within seconds - but history suggests that technological revolutions do not always translate immediately into broad-based social prosperity. In fact, AI could potentially trigger a contemporary version of what economic historians call Engels Pause -- a prolonged period in which productivity and wealth rise sharply while wages and living standards for ordinary workers stagnate, according to an article in India Narrative. It cites the example of Britains Industrial Revolution, which led to a massive jump in production during the 19th century, but at the same time it took a long time for workers and ordinary people to improve their living conditions. The article highlights that historically, industrial revolutions generated broad employment because they created entirely new industries that absorbed displaced workers. The textile revolution created factory jobs. The automobile industry generated millions of manufacturing and service-sector opportunities. The digital revolution created software engineering, e-commerce and platform economies. AI may also create new professions that are currently unimaginable. However, the transition period could still be painful and unequal. The implications for developing economies such as India are especially complex. India has benefited enormously from labour-intensive service sectors including IT outsourcing, business process management, and customer support operations. Many of these industries now face potential disruption from AI automation. Tasks involving basic coding, data entry, customer assistance, and document processing can increasingly be performed by AI systems at lower cost and greater speed, the article stated. It further highlighted that at the same time, AI also presents major opportunities for India. It can improve agricultural productivity, healthcare delivery, logistics, education access and governance efficiency. Indian startups are actively integrating AI into sectors ranging from fintech to language technology. The challenge lies not in resisting AI adoption but in ensuring that productivity gains translate into widespread economic benefits rather than narrow corporate concentration. The lessons of Engels Pause become critically relevant, it noted. During the Industrial Revolution, governments were initially slow to respond to worsening labour conditions and inequality. Only after decades of social unrest, unionisation, and political reform did industrial societies develop mechanisms such as labour protections, public education systems and social welfare policies. The article contended that the AI era may require a comparable institutional response. Policymakers must begin preparing for labour market transitions before disruption becomes socially destabilising. Investment in large-scale digital education and continuous reskilling programmes will become essential. Universities and vocational institutions must adapt rapidly to changing skill demands. Equally important is strengthening social safety nets for workers vulnerable to technological displacement.
3 women journalists allege sexual harassment by police at Delhi protest, Crime Branch launches probe
Three women journalists say police officers sexually harassed them as they covered protests demanding the resignation of India's election chief.
Three Women Journalists Accuse Police Personnel Of Sexual Harassment During Jantar Mantar Protest
Three women journalists have accused police personnel of sexual harassment during the October 3 protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar at Jantar Mantar. The allegations have now led to a formal enquiry, with the Delhi Police transferring the complaints to
Delhi Police Busts Digital Arrest Cyber Fraud Racket
Two men from Jammu and Kashmir and Rajasthan have been arrested for allegedly duping a Delhi resident of Rs 6 lakh in a digital arrest cyber fraud. The accused impersonated law enforcement officials, threatened the victim, and induced him to transfer money. Investigations revealed links to multiple other cyber fraud complaints and a Cambodia-linked digital trail.
'Disappointed to not win gold, but proud of silver': Antim after Asiad success
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Indian wrestler Antim Panghal was disappointed not to have won the gold medal in the women's 53kg final at the Asian Games but was proud of the silver she won with some strong performances. Antim lost the gold medal bout to Japan's Moe Kiyooka, who was the 2024 World Championships' gold medallist in the 55kg category. Antim now has upgraded her bronze from the Hangzhou Games 2023 to a silver at the Aichi-Nagoya Games, something she stays proud of despite the final loss. Of course, Im a little disappointed that I couldnt win gold, but Im still very proud to have won a silver medal for India at the Asian Games. Every athlete dreams of winning a medal for the country, and to be able to do that on this stage means a lot to me, she said. The Haryana-born athlete underwent intense training in preparation for the major events and reflected on the sacrifices she has had to make. There have been so many sacrifices, difficult days and moments when things have not gone my way, but I kept believing in myself and working hard. Im especially thankful to WFI, Inspire Institute of Sport and Parth Jindal sir, who has supported me, guided me and helped me improve throughout this journey. I'll take this experience, learn from it and keep working hard to come back stronger, Antim added. Antim was the only Indian woman wrestler to bag a medal at the Asiad, as five other medals were won by male grapplers. The 21-year-old had produced a dominant run to reach the final, opening her campaign with a 9-0 victory over Kazakhstan's Shugyla Omirbek before defeating Uzbekistan's Sakibjamal Esbosynova 8-0 in the quarterfinals. She then overcame China's Jin Zhang 6-1 in the semifinal. After conceding the opening point, Antim responded strongly by scoring six unanswered points to book her place in the title clash. Her qualification for the final had already placed her in an elite group, making her only the third Indian woman wrestler after Geetika Jakhar and Vinesh Phogat to reach an Asian Games wrestling final.
Garlands, ITBP band greet Indian boxers after Asian Games triumph
New Delhi: It was around 3 am, but the airport was buzzing with activity as Indias Asian Games medal-winning boxers returned to a warm welcome, greeted by an Indo-Tibetan Border Police band, garlands, sweets and cheering family members. After a memorable campaign in Nagoya, the Indian boxing contingent landed to a reception befitting its success, 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 .
India and China are relatively better placed to withstand energy supply disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz due to diversified sourcing and stockpiles, while New Delhi is likely to continue buying some Russian oil despite potential US tariff pressure, said former Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeo, urging India to
Netanyahu Invites PM Modi, Captain Smit Machchhar To Israel Independence Day Event
New Delhi, Oct 4: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar to light the ceremonial flame at Israels upcoming Independence Day celebrations. During a telephone conversation with Captain Machchhar, Netanyahu praised the Indian pilot for his bravery in foiling a mid-air attack and described him [] The post Netanyahu Invites PM Modi, Captain Smit Machchhar To Israel Independence Day Event appeared first on Northlines .
India, Canada begin fifth round of CEPA talks on October 5
India and Canada are set to hold the fifth round of negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in October. These discussions aim to conclude the pact by the end of 2026, following previous rounds and negotiations. Canada's Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu is scheduled to visit New Delhi with a large business delegation later this month.
IIT Delhi Opens Executive Programme Registration For AI In Healthcare, Check Course Details
IIT Delhi Courses 2026: The institute noted that the programme focuses on translating AI models from research environments into meaningful healthcare applications.
Govt raises ceiling price of gas from deepwater fields to $9.89/mmBtu
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The government has increased the ceiling price of natural gas produced from deepwater, ultra-deepwater and high-pressure, high-temperature fields to $9.89 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) for the six-month period beginning October 1, providing relief to producers operating in technically challenging gas blocks such as Reliance Industries-BP's KG-D6 project. The revised ceiling price, up from $8.90 per MMBtu, will remain effective from October 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, according to a notification issued by the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Gas produced from difficult fields enjoys marketing and pricing freedom under the government's policy framework, but the price remains subject to a government-notified ceiling. The increase in the ceiling is expected to support producers developing offshore gas resources, where exploration and production costs are considerably higher than those associated with mature onshore and legacy fields. At the same time, the government has kept the price ceiling for natural gas produced from the nomination fields of state-run ONGC and Oil India Ltd (OIL) unchanged at $7 per MMBtu. According to PPAC, the administered price mechanism (APM) gas price for October has been notified at $11.22 per MMBtu. However, the actual realisation for gas produced from ONGC and OIL's legacy fields will continue to be capped at $7 per MMBtu under the existing pricing regime. APM gas is supplied primarily to priority sectors such as city gas distribution, fertiliser and power, and its pricing plays a key role in determining input costs for these industries. The government also allows ONGC and OIL to receive a 10 per cent premium over the prevailing APM gas price for production from new wells drilled in their nomination blocks, subject to the applicable ceiling. Since the effective APM price for October remains capped at $7 per MMBtu, gas from these new wells can be priced at up to $7.70 per MMBtu.
Utterly shameful: Tharoor slams police action against women protesters in Delhi
Delhi journalists sexual harassment complaint: FIR not registered yet
IGU announces Rs 10 lakh reward for Pranavi; silver-winning team members to get Rs 3 lakh each
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) The Indian Golf Union (IGU) governing council has approved a cash award of Rs 10 lakh for Pranavi Urs for winning the historic gold at the Aich-Nagoya Asian Games. Pranavi became the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games gold medal in golf. She then added a second medal, combining with Olympians Aditi Ashok and Diksha Dagar for the womens team silver, Indias first-ever Asian Games medal in the event. Your outstanding performance is a moment of great pride for Indian golf and for all of us at the Indian Golf Union. Winning Gold at the Asian Games is a tremendous achievement and a reflection of your talent, hard work, determination and commitment to the sport. On behalf of the Indian Golf Union, I am delighted to inform you that the Governing Council has approved a cash award of Rs 10 lakh in recognition of your gold-medal-winning performance, IGU president Brijinder Singh said. Additionally, IGU announced Rs 3 lakh for each member of the womens golf team in recognition of their silver medal. These awards are a small expression of our appreciation for your exceptional contribution and for bringing great honour to Indian golf, he added. Pranavi's triumph ended Indias 24-year wait for an Asian Games golf gold, with Shiv Kapurs mens individual title at Busan 2002 having been the countrys previous title. Before this, Aditis Hangzhou 2023 silver was Indias only golf medal in the womens individual event at the Games. Pranavi finished fourth in Hangzhou. It was also Indias fourth gold in golf at the Asian Games. The first titles came at New Delhi 1982 through Lakshman Singh, who also combined with Rishi Narain, Amit Luthra and Rajeev Mohta to secure the mens team crown.
Helping smokers quit needs clinical support, policy support: Experts
Telling smokers to quit is not enough and greater emphasis needs to be placed on clinical support for tobacco dependence, while public health policies should evolve with emerging scientific evidence, experts said. The experts spoke at the 9th Summit on Tobacco Harm Reduction, held virtually from September 28 to 30, where clinicians, researchers and policy experts discussed tobacco dependence, smoking cessation, nicotine use among young people and the role of scientific evidence in shaping tobacco-control policies. Dr Mohsin Wali, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Pacific OneHealth, Delhi, and founding member of Doctors Against Addiction (DaAD), said there was a significant difference between advising a smoker to quit and helping them actually overcome tobacco dependence. Every smoker should be encouraged and supported to quit, but after more than four decades in clinical practice, I have seen that telling a smoker to quit and helping that person actually quit are two very ...
22, 24 carat Gold prices remain steady across metro cities on October 4
This Delhi terrace has more than 500 plants and attracts 100+ bird species and 25+ butterflies
5000 Cops Deployed Ahead of India Gate to Jantar Mantar Anti-CEC Marches be zza,,
Authorities have turned key stretches of Central Delhi into heavily guarded zones, deploying nearly 5,000 security personnelincluding units from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and paramilitary forcesahead of planned demonstrations demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. The security measures come as anti-EC agitators enter their third consecutive day of demonstrations. While [] The post 5000 Cops Deployed Ahead of India Gate to Jantar Mantar Anti-CEC Marches be zza,, appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Corruption acting as hidden tax on development, burdening Bangladeshs poor: Report
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Corruption is emerging as one of the biggest hidden costs to Bangladeshs development, increasing the burden on citizens, discouraging investment and weakening trust in public institutions, according to recent findings and analyses highlighted in a discussion on governance and economic growth, a report has said. While development is often measured through indicators such as highway construction, industrial expansion, power generation, exports and GDP growth, experts argue that another key measure is the ease with which citizens can access public services without paying bribes or navigating bureaucratic hurdles, acording to the Bangladesh-based The Financial Express report. They note that corruption is not only a moral or governance issue but also an economic one, as it raises transaction costs, undermines institutional efficiency and reduces public trust. According to the analysis, corruption becomes entrenched when unethical practices gradually gain social acceptance, with individuals benefiting from personal connections or rule-bending often being rewarded, while adherence to regulations is viewed as impractical. Such attitudes, experts say, weaken institutions and increase the cost of doing business. Studies based on World Values Survey data have indicated a link between trust, morality and economic growth, suggesting that societies with stronger institutional trust tend to experience smoother economic transactions and lower business costs. The issue has gained renewed attention following Transparency International Bangladeshs (TIB) National Household Survey 2025, which found that 81.6 per cent of households experienced corruption while accessing services and 63.6 per cent were compelled to pay bribes. The survey estimated the total value of bribe transactions during the reference period at Tk 126.33 billion, equivalent to 1.58 per cent of Bangladeshs revised national budget for FY25 and 0.23 per cent of GDP. The survey covered 15,715 households and examined experiences between November 2024 and October 2025, the report noted. The findings also highlighted how deeply corruption is embedded in everyday interactions with public services. According to TIB, 81.5 per cent of households that paid bribes reported they could not obtain services without making such payments. Public awareness of grievance mechanisms remains limited. More than half of surveyed households were unaware of how to file corruption complaints, while only 10.3 per cent of those who encountered corruption lodged formal complaints. Among those who did not complain, 61.3 per cent said they viewed corruption as an unavoidable part of the service delivery system and believed reporting it would make little difference. The survey further found that corruption disproportionately affects lower-income households. In the five sectors identified as most prone to corruption, households below the poverty line spent an average 5.1 per cent of their annual income on corruption-related payments, compared with 3.2 per cent among households above the poverty line. Analysts said this effectively makes corruption a regressive tax, imposing a heavier relative burden on poorer sections of society, as per the report.
Diljit Dosanjh announces Aura India Tour 2026; check city-wise dates, tickets and venue details
Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh has announced the India leg of his Aura World Tour. The Aura India Tour 2026 will cover seven cities across the country, with the tour set to begin in Delhi-NCR on November 1 and conclude in Lucknow on December 5. The singer made this announcement on Sunday with an Instagram post.
India, US discuss advancing security partnership, maritime cooperation in Indo-Pacific
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar held a meeting with the Commander of the United States Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, in New Delhi on Sunday. The meeting focused on advancing the security partnership and maritime cooperation. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor was present during the meeting. Glad to meet Commander of the US Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel J. Paparo. Discussed advancing our security partnership and maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, EAM Jaishankar posted on X. Admiral Samuel J. Paparo arrived in New Delhi on Saturday for a six-day official visit intended to bolster the defence partnership between India and the United States. During the visit, Admiral Paparo will hold talks with Indian counterparts covering shared security priorities. The agenda includes harnessing digital transformation and emerging technologies, maintaining regional strategic stability, strengthening defence energy resilience, and navigating an increasingly competitive...
'Kejriwal is true dictator: Pargat Singh on suspension of AAP leader
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Punjab Congress President Pargat Singh trained guns at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over suspension of one of its leaders and a serving legislator Sukhveer Singh Maiserkhana from the party, over latter's adverse commentary on the state of health and education in the state. He labelled AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal a 'true dictator'. This is the true face of the Aam Aadmi Party. They used to showcase a model of education and health. But one of their own MLAs said that proper arrangements for education are not in place. Within two hoursthis is dictatorship. Kejriwal is a pure dictator. He is one thing to show and another thing in practice, Singh said. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) suspended the primary membership of legislator Sukhveer Singh Maiserkhana over alleged anti-party activities and indiscipline. Earlier, AAP MLA from Maur, Sukhveer Singh Maiserkhana, broke down during a live Facebook video on Saturday while criticising his own government over the shortage of teachers in government schools. He said he had repeatedly raised the issue with the authorities. Punjab Congress President Pargat Singh further said that the law and order situation in Punjab is weak because of a lack of professionalism in the leadership. He said that there was a lack of will in political and police leadership in the state. Speaking to IANS on Sunday, the newly appointed Punjab Congress President Pargat Singh said, When you demolish institutions, it is natural that a situation arises which, I believe, creates chaos. Today, in our country, we are losing trust in institutions, or losing trust in a political system. Speaking on the protests against CEC Gyanesh Kumar, he said, Losing trust in an individual is one thing, but when institutions get demolished, that is a huge loss for the country. As they say, a person dying is not true death, but the death of their conscience is true death. He also spoke on the law and order in Punjab, saying, I think two, three, or four murders are happening every day in Punjab; there is no law and order, and there is no professionalism. This is because there is no leader. There is no leader in the police, and there is a lack of will in political leadership as well. So somewhere, when such conditions exist, it is the same police force that performs very well at times. But when it becomes leaderless, naturally, the performance goes down. Recently, Punjab Congress witnessed a change in leadership after Amarinder Singh Raja Warring resigned as Punjab Congress chief, making way for MLA Pargat Singh, who was appointed as the new president of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee(PPCC).
Sri Lanka drop Asalanka for Pakistan ODI tri-series, Avishka, Sahan recalled
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 4 (IANS) Sri Lanka have named their squad for the ODI tri-series in Pakistan, featuring the hosts and England, and have dropped former captain Charith Asalanka. Asalanka, who was the vice-captain for the white-ball series against England, had scores of 1, 11 and 7 during the one-dayers and has faced the axe. Meanwhile, Avishka Fernando and all-rounder Sahan Arachchige have been recalled in the squad for the ODI tri-series that begins on October 18 in Rawalpindi and runs till October 31. They come in place of Asalanka and the injured Wanindu Hasaranga, who is out due to the hamstring injury he picked up during the England tour. Asalanka was part of the leadership group for the England tour, being the vice-captain. The 29-year-old led the T20I team in the absence of regular skipper Kusal Mendis, who missed out due to a hamstring injury. He was also in line to lead them in the ODIs, but Mendis made a return. In England, Asalanka made a return to the T20Is after being sidelined for six months, with his last outing coming in the 2026 World Cup. Asalanka was also removed as ODI captain in May 2026 but was brought back into the leadership group for the England series. He now misses out on the ODIs. This removal follows Asalanka's exclusion from the T20I squad for the Pakistan series, which begins on October 9. The Sri Lanka ODI squad remains unchanged otherwise from the 1-2 ODI series defeat to England. Pathum Nissanka and Dushmantha Chameera are in the side despite their fitness concerns. Nissanka was ruled out of the Pakistan T20Is, and the SLC confirmed that he will travel with the side only if declared fit. Chameera was picked for the T20Is subject to fitness clearance. Sri Lanka squad for ODI tri-series: Kusal Mendis (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Kamil Mishara, Pavan Rathnayake, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga
