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Goa nightclub employee detained by state police in Delhi
NEW DELHI : An employee of a Goa nightclub where a fire claimed 25 lives has been detained by the state police in Delhi, official sources said on Monday. The employee has been identified as Bharat Kohli, a resident of the Sabzi Mandi area here. He was responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the nightclub and his name surfaced during the questioning of a club manager, the police sources said. Kohli will be taken to Goa for questioning, they said. The fire broke out at Birch by Romeo Lane at Arpora in North Goa on Saturday night. Most of the 25 people killed in the incident were nightclub staffers. So far, Goa Police has arrested the club's chief general manager, Rajiv Modak, general manager Vivek Singh, bar manager Rajiv Singhania, and gate manager Riyanshu Thakur in the case. Goa government cracks down on 'Romeo Lane' chain after deadly club fire; two properties sealed
IndiGo cancels over 250 flights from Delhi, Bengaluru as disruptions enter day 7
In the notices issued to Elbers and Porqueras on Saturday, the regulator said the large-scale operational failures pointed to significant lapses in planning, oversight, and resource management, and asked them to submit their replies within 24 hours
No improvement in Delhi's air quality
The minimum temperature settled at 8.7 degrees Celsius, which is 0.9 notches below normal, while the morning relative humidity touched 100 percent
Over 5 lakh Waqf properties uploaded on UMEED portal, 2.16 lakh approved by deadline
NEW DELHI: A total of 5.17 lakh Waqf properties were initiated on the UMEED portal while 2,16,905 properties were approved by the designated approvers during the six-month window provided, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Minority Affairs. The UMEED Central Portal for management of Waqf Properties in India, launched by Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on June 6, 2025, officially closed for uploads on December 6, 2025, completing its six-month window, as per the UMEED Act, 1995 and the clear directions of the Supreme Court. In the final count, the momentum significantly accelerated as the deadline approached, the ministry said in a statement. Many review meetings, training workshops, and high-level interventions even at the secretary-level injected renewed pace into the process, making the upload surge in the last hours, it said. According to the data provided by the ministry, 5,17,040 Waqf properties were initiated on the portal with 2,16,905 properties approved by the designated approvers. A total of 2,13,941 properties have been submitted by makers and remain in the pipeline as of the deadline, the ministry said, adding that 10,869 properties stood rejected during verification To support this massive national exercise, the Ministry of Minority Affairs conducted continuous workshops and training sessions with State/UT Waqf Boards and Minority Departments, the statement said. A two-day master trainer workshop was also conducted in Delhi to equip Waqf Boards and State/UT officials with hands-on training for the uploading process, the ministry said. Senior technical and administrative teams were deputed across states, and seven zonal meetings were held nationwide. A dedicated helpline was also set up at the Ministry office for technical support and quick resolution of issues arising during the uploads. Since the launch of the portal, secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Chandra Shekhar Kumar took 20 plus review meetings, consistently guiding, motivating, and monitoring States/UTs to ensure timely and accurate uploading of existing Waqf property details, the statement said. The conclusion of this phase marks a significant milestone in bringing transparency, efficiency, and unified digital management to Waqf properties across India under the UMEED framework, it said. The highest number of Waqf properties initiated on the portal were from Uttar Pradesh (92,830 - 86,345 Sunni and 6,485 Shia), followed by Maharashtra (62,939) and Karnataka (58,328), while 23,086 properties were initiated from West Bengal. Rijiju on Friday had ruled out extending the deadline for registering Waqf properties on the UMEED portal but said his ministry, recognising the concerns of 'mutawallis' or caretakers, will not impose any penalty or take strict action for the next three months as a humanitarian and facilitative measure. The Centre launched The Unified Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency, and Development (UMEED) Act central portal on June 6 to create a digital inventory. According to the provisions of the portal, details of all registered Waqf properties across the country must be uploaded within six months. The six-month deadline for registration ended at 11:59:59 pm on December 6. The six-month deadline mandated under the Waqf Amendment Act cannot be extended due to the provisions of the Act, and clear directions of the Supreme Court, the minister had said. The government, through the Ministry of Minority Affairs, has said it is committed to modernising Waqf administration and unlocking the full developmental potential of Waqf properties for the benefit of minority communities.
In a recent development, a taxpayer residing in the UAE with an income of Rs 4 crore from India found themselves in a positive light as the ITAT in Delhi ruled in their favor. Despite having Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) already handled, the taxpayer had not submitted their Income Tax Return (ITR).
IndiGo flight operations stabilising, cancellations down to 650
NEW DELHI: Air travel chaos due to IndiGos operational disruptions continued on Sunday, though the situation appeared to improve with the countrys largest airline set to operate 1,650 flights until midnight up from 1,565 on Saturday and 706 on Friday. This still resulted in 650 flights across the country being cancelled with hundreds of them delayed by hours. In a statement, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said air travel operations across the country were stabilising. All other domestic airlines are operating smoothly and at full capacity, while IndiGos performance has shown steady improvement today, with flight schedules moving back towards normal levels. IndiGos flight operations are likely to reach up to 1,650 by the end of today (Sunday), its statement read. To ensure financial protection for passengers, the ministry directed IndiGo to complete refunds for cancelled or severely delayed flights by 8:00 PM on Sunday. The ministry also asked IndiGo to ensure that no additional fees are levied for rescheduling travel impacted by cancellations. On how much more refund was pending, an Indigo source said the process of calculating the amount to be refunded was still on. The ministry also said IndiGo successfully delivered 3,000 pieces of baggage to passengers as of December 6. It had mandated a 48-hour deadline for delivery of luggage separated from flyers due to the flight delay and cancellation chaos. In an update on the situation, Indigo said its on-time performance shot up to 75% on Sunday from 30% on Saturday. The airline also said it will root cause analysis into flight disruptions. Meanwhile, the DGCA extended the deadline for IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers to respond to the show cause notice to Monday 6 pm. IndiGo sources said the airline would soon respond to the show cause notice. We are readying our response by explaining the reasons that flights were cancelled and delayed and the steps we are taking to mitigate them, a source said. Refunds being processed IndiGo has processed refunds of Rs 610 crore so far against cancelled or delayed flights, and delivered 3,000 pieces of baggage to passengers as of Saturday, the civil aviation ministry said
Delhi Traffic Police have issued advisories as major restrictions are in place near Red Fort from December 8-13 due to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event. Key routes, including Ring Road, Netaji Subhash Marg, Nishad Raj Marg, and SPM Marg may face closures; designated parking is advised.
Chinese national detained for visa violation in Ladakh
Srinagar, Dec 7: An unusual chatter on the Internet intercepted by the army alerted security agencies in the Kashmir valley, leading to the detention of a Chinese national who had entered Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir without permission, officials said on Sunday. Hu Congtai, 29, arrived in Delhi on November 19 on a tourist visa, [] The post Chinese national detained for visa violation in Ladakh appeared first on Northlines .
Goa government cracks down on 'Romeo Lane' chain after deadly club fire; two properties sealed
The Goa government has intensified action against the Romeo Lane hospitality chain after a devastating fire at one of its clubs killed 25 people on Saturday night . Officials confirmed on Monday that two additional properties linked to the chain, a beach shack in Vagator and a club in Assagao, have been sealed amid growing scrutiny of safety violations. A police team has also travelled to Delhi to trace the clubs promoters, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, who have been booked in an FIR related to the incident. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said both will be arrested once located. Among the 25 victims were 20 staff members and four Nepali citizens, including four from Delhi. Deeply saddened by the Goa fire tragedy in which 25 people lost their lives yesterday, including four Nepali nationals, Nepal's ambassador Shankar P. Sharma. My heart goes out to the bereaved families, and I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured, he added. The rest of the dead were Indian citizens, mainly the nightclub's staff, as well as holidaymakers from New Delhi. Most deaths were attributed to suffocation, as several people were trapped on the ground floor and in the kitchen, according to fire brigade officials. Police have arrested four members of the clubs management team --chief general manager Rajiv Modak, general manager Vivek Singh, bar manager Rajiv Singhania, and gate manager Riyanshu Thakur. CM Sawant has directed Chief Secretary V. Candavelou and DGP Alok Kumar to identify and take action against government officials who allowed the nightclub to operate despite its violations.
Delhi air quality remains very poor as AQI hits 318
A dense layer of smog covered several parts of the city, showing little to no improvement in the hazardous air. Areas such as Anand Vihar, India Gate, Dwarka, and ITO reported thick haze early in the morning, reducing visibility significantly. The CPCB noted that large sections of the National Capital continued to experience very poor air quality
Over 250 IndiGo flights were cancelled from Delhi and Bengaluru airports on Monday as the disruptions in the crisis-hit airline's flight operations entered the seventh day, sources said. Hyderabads Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) reported 77 IndiGo flights affected so far, 38 arrivals and 39 departures cancelled, airport authorities confirmed. The ripple effect of IndiGos operational issues was also felt in Mumbais Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, where passengers faced widespread delays and cancellations. The ongoing turmoil has prompted aviation regulator DGCA to extend the deadline for IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and COOAccountable Manager Isidro Porqueras to respond to its show-cause notices. The replies, originally due within 24 hours of the notices issued on Saturday, must now be submitted by 6 pm on Monday. In its notice, the DGCA flagged significant lapses in IndiGos planning, oversight, and resource management, pointing to large-scale operational failures that have stranded lakhs of passengers since December 2. The airline attributed the disruptions to regulatory changes in flight duty time limitations (FDTL) for pilots. The nationwide disruptions also prompted the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to issue a formal appeal to all pilot bodies, urging full cooperation as airlines navigate mounting operational strain. The regulator noted that unpredictable weather, peak holiday travel, seasonal demand, and rising passenger loads are compounding pressures on airline operations. With the onset of the fog season and heavy winter travel, the DGCA warned of further challenges ahead. Following the appeal, the Airlines Pilots Association of India (ALPA India) said it is ready to fully support the DGCA and the Ministry of Civil Aviation in managing the crisis, but cautioned that rolling back the revised Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) norms would compromise fatigue protection and passenger safety. Is IndiGo too big to fail? And what about lack of pilots leading to the flight chaos theory?
Goa fire tragedy: State cracks down on Romeo Lane chain, seals two properties
A state police team also left for Delhi on Sunday to search for the property promoters -- Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra -- against whom a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered
AAP's Sanjay Singh seeks discussion in RS on Delhi's health emergency, rising crime and demolitions
The Winter Session of Parliament has begun. Today, the Lok Sabha will discuss the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will start the debate. The Rajya Sabha will also hold discussions on Vande Mataram. Meanwhile, an AAP MP has sought a discussion on Delhi's public health and crime.
AAP MP Sanjay Singh Seeks Debate in RS on Delhi's Health Emergency
Singh demanded an urgent discussion on what he described as a 'public health emergency' in Delhi, the rising crime, and the humanitarian crisis caused by bulldozer demolitions
Economy pivot makes Putins Delhi visit all the more significant
Cooperation extends to mutually beneficial new sectors By K Raveendran Russian President Vladimir Putins visit has drawn attention for the way it reinforced a partnership shaped increasingly by economic interdependence and investment-driven priorities. The backdrop to this years summit made the outcome particularly notable, as both countries have expanded trade, diversified energy cooperation, and [] The post Economy pivot makes Putins Delhi visit all the more significant appeared first on Northlines .
Several areas, including Anand Vihar, India Gate, Dwarka and ITO, reported thick haze early this morning, with visibility remaining significantly reduced. According to CPCB, many regions of the National Capital fell into the 'very poor' category.
IndiGo flights may continue to experience delays: Delhi Airport
Meanwhile, IndiGo has so far processed refunds totalling Rs 610 crore after the government issued strict directives to the airline requiring that all refunds to passengers
IndiGo operations hit for second week, with large-scale cancellations at Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi
IndiGo faced significant flight disruptions in Hyderabad, impacting 77 flights, with ongoing issues in Mumbai and Delhi. The DGCA urged pilot cooperation amid rising operational pressures from weather and demand. As the fog and holiday season approach, the regulator emphasized tighter coordination to ensure safe and reliable air travel for millions.
Chinese national detained; was visiting J-K, Ladakh without permission: Officials
SRINAGAR: An unusual chatter on the Internet intercepted by the army alerted security agencies in the Kashmir valley, leading to the detention of a Chinese national who had entered Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir without permission, officials said on Sunday. Hu Congtai, 29, arrived in Delhi on November 19 on a tourist visa, which permitted []
IndiGo flight status: Delhi Airport issues BIG advisory, warns passengers on delays; check details
While IndiGo has attempted to calm nerves by assuring passengers that operations are expected to stabilise between December 10 and 15, the normalcy remains far-fetched with massive delays and cancellations continuing at several airports across the country. Delhi Airport on Monday issued an advisory warning passengers that the airline's flights may still face disruptions.
IndiGo cancels over 650 flights on Sunday
New Delhi/Mumbai: The countrys largest airline IndiGo on Sunday cancelled over 650 flights while the disrupted operations were slowly stabilising as the number of cancellations reduced and more than Rs 610 crore worth ticket refunds were processed for the affected passengers. While IndiGo will carry out a root cause analysis into flight disruptions that continued 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 .
Goa fire criminal failure of governance: rahul
NEW DELHI: The Congress on Sunday demanded a full-scale investigation and strict accountability for the tragic fire at a nightclub in Goa that killed 25 people, with Rahul Gandhi claiming it was a criminal failure of safety and governance. In a post on X, Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, said he was deeply pained by the tragic fire in Arpora. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured. This is not just an accident; it is a criminal failure of safety and governance. A thorough, transparent probe must fix accountability and ensure such preventable tragedies dont occur again, he wrote. The fire broke out at Birch by Romeo Lane, a popular nightclub at Arpora village in North Goa, early Sunday, killing at least 25 people, including four tourists and 14 staff members, and injuring six others. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his deepest condolences to those who lost their loved ones in the blaze. This avoidable, tragic incident is an irreparable loss, and I pray for the speedy recovery of all those who have been injured. Such tragedies call for a comprehensive investigation, strict accountability, and immediate steps to ensure that all fire safety norms are enforced, so that such devastating incidents are never repeated, Kharge said in a post on X. Goa nightclub blaze: Four arrested, three officials suspended; failure to enforce rules under scanner The Congress chief also appealed to all the Congress workers in the coastal region to extend every possible support and assistance to the affected families and stand with them in this hour of grief. Congress general secretary in charge of organisation, K C Venugopal, sought fixing of accountability for the tragic blaze so that such incidents are not repeated. The fire at a nightclub in Goa is completely shocking. This tragedy took place because of the negligence of the authorities in enforcing fire safety norms. We urge a thorough and impartial investigation to identify those responsible and to ensure accountability, he said in a post on X. Kharge calls it avoidable Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his condolences to those who lost their loved ones in the blaze. He said that this was an avoidable incident causing irreparable loss.
Fake e-PAN download emails: IT Dept, PIB issue warning to taxpayers
New Delhi: The Income Tax Department has issued a fact-check to alert citizens against fake e-mails asking people to download the e-PAN card, an official said on Sunday. The fact-check, issued with the help of the Press Information Bureau (PIB), said, Beware of Fake Emails asking to download e-PAN cards. The PIB also circulated 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 .
Congress destroyed legacy of Patel, Ambedkar: BJP
NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday criticised Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi over her allegation that the BJP is attempting to erase Pandit Jawaharlal Nehrus legacy. At a media briefing at the partys central office, BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra accused the Congress of destroying the legacies of several national leaders to preserve what he termed the so-called legacy of Nehru. He said the Congress had undermined the contributions of leaders such as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Dr B.R. Ambedkar. Today, if anyone is causing the most damage to the legacy of Nehru, it is the members of the so-called Gandhi family themselves, who are out on bail in the National Herald case, he said, a day ahead of the scheduled Lok Sabha discussion on Vande Mataram. When there will be a debate on Vande Mataram in Parliament tomorrow, I feel that the reality of Nehru will be revealed to everyone; he will again be exposed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate the debate on the 150th anniversary of the national song, Vande Mataram, in the Lok Sabha on Monday, while Home Minister Amit Shah will begin the discussion in the Rajya Sabha on December 9. On Sonia Gandhis accusations that a systematic attempt is being made to demolish Nehrus multifaceted legacy and rewrite history, Patra hit back, saying the BJP is only trying to ensure that due recognition is given to leaders. The BJP is not trying to rewrite history. The BJP is trying to rectify the history and give due recognition to the people who really contributed towards the independence of this country and to the various other facets of this country, he added. Referring again to the National Herald case, Patra said, If this is not to tarnish Nehrus legacy, then who is tarnishing it? The Lok Sabha has allocated 10 hours for the debate on Vande Matarams 150th anniversary. BJP not rewriting history The BJP is not trying to rewrite history, said Patra, adding that the BJP is trying to rectify the history and give due recognition to the people who really contributed towards the countrys freedom
India a living culture, not just grand monuments: PM at Unesco meet
NEW DELHI: For India, heritage has never been just nostalgia, but its a living and growing river, a continuous stream of knowledge, creativity and community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday. Our civilisational journey has been shaped by the understanding that culture is enriched not only by monuments or manuscripts, but also thrives in the everyday expressions of people such as festivals, rituals, arts, and craftsmanship, he said. The PM said intangible heritage carries the moral and emotional memories of societies, urging its preservation to save the worlds cultural diversity. This was his written message to a gathering of delegates attending the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), being held at the Red Fort. It was read out on the occasion of its opening ceremony on Sunday. This is the first time that India is hosting a session of the UNESCO panel from December 8-13. PM Modis message was read by Union Culture Secretary Vivek Aggarwal in the presence of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the chief guest, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany, among other dignitaries on the dais. Modi, in his message, said that it was a matter of great pride that India was hosting this key session. From thematic galleries to performing arts, India showcased its rich cultural heritage at the Red Fort complex as the inaugural ceremony of a key UNESCO meeting on safeguarding intangible legacy began. Indias Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Vishal V Sharma, were present at the opening ceremony. According to UNESCO, the session will examine nominations submitted by state parties for inscription on the UNESCO ICH lists, review the status of existing elements, and provide international assistance for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. In his address, Shekhawat said that the Red Fort had been an iconic witness to the continuity of life in India. India hosting this meet is not just a matter of pride, but a reminder that cultural ethics echo through its rich past, he said.
IndiGo crisis: Amid the ongoing IndiGo flight disruptions across the country, The Delhi International Airport has issued an advisory, saying that IndiGo flights may continue to experience delays. IndiGo has said its operations are expected to stabilise by December 10. Thousands of flights have been cancelled in the past few days creating inconvenience for passengers.
DCM seeks report on Bengalurus air quality
BENGALURU: Congress MLC Dinesh Gooligowda has warned that the Bengalurus air quality is deteriorating rapidly and that if measures are not taken, the city will become another New Delhi. In a letter addressed to Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar dated December 6, he urged that steps be taken to curb air pollution. Acting immediately on Gooligowdas letter, the DCM directed the chief secretary to set up an expert committee to submit a report on air pollution. In his letter, Gooligowda, who is also vice-chairman of Karnataka State Guarantee Schemes Implementation Authority, said, There are 1.2 crore vehicles in Bengaluru for a population of 1.47 crore, with almost every citizen owning a vehicle as a result of which pollution is increasing. Stating that on average 2,563 new vehicles are getting registered daily in the city, Gooligowda said experts have predicted that in the next 5-10 years, Bengalurus Air Quality Index (AQI), which is in the moderate range of 50-70, would jump to the severe range. He demanded that a high-level technical committee be set up, comprising environmental scientists, mobility experts, public health experts, subject experts, along with officials from the pollution board and the state transport department. The committee must decide the pollution trajectory of Bengaluru for the next decade and recommend immediate and long-term measures to curb pollution. They have to develop a comprehensive clean-air action plan for Bengaluru, the MLC stated.
PM Modi to kick off discussion on Vande Mataram in Lok Sabha on Monday
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will kick off a special discussion in Lok Sabha on Monday to mark 150 years of Vande Mataram as part of an exercise that promises to highlight many lesser-known facets related to the patriotic song. PM Modi is also likely to highlight the contribution of the song, written by 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 .
After a massive fire at the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub in Goa claimed the lives of 25 people , including tourists and staff, the police on Sunday registered an FIR against its owners, manager, and event organisers. The club's Chief General Manager Rajiv Modak, General Manager Vivek Singh, Bar Manager Rajiv Singhania, and Gate Manager Riyanshu Thakur have been arrested, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said. An FIR has also been registered against the clubs owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, as well as the event organisers. Additionally, three senior Goa government officials including the then Director of Panchayats have been suspended for their role in allowing the nightclub to begin operations in 2023, a senior officer said. Fireworks are suspected to have sparked the blaze at the nightclub in Arpora, officials said, adding that the establishment allegedly did not possess a fire department NOC. The dead included 20 staff members and five tourists, four of them from Delhi. Initial findings suggest the nightclub had failed to comply with fire safety norms, Chief Minister Sawant said. Preliminary inquiry found that electric firecrackers were set off inside the premises, igniting the blaze around 11.45 p.m. on Saturday, Sawant said. He added that he has directed Chief Secretary V. Candavelou and DGP Alok Kumar to identify and take action against the government officials who allowed the club to operate despite safety violations. Most of the deaths were due to suffocation, as victims were trapped on the ground floor and in the kitchen, a fire brigade official said. Narrow approach lanes hindered the movement of fire brigade vehicles, forcing water tankers to be stationed nearly 400 metres from the site. The government also formed a probe panel comprising the South Goa Collector, Deputy Director of Fire and Emergency Services, and the Director of Forensic Laboratory. It has been asked to submit its report within a week. An ex-gratia of Rs five lakh for the nearest kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured would be paid from the State Disaster Management Authority Funds, the chief minister said. Arrangements would be made to take the mortal remains of the deceased to their native places, Sawant added. President Droupadi Murmu, PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, among others, expressed grief over the tragedy. While the state police initially said the blaze occurred due to a cylinder blast, some eyewitnesses claimed the fire started on the club's first floor where tourists were dancing. Riya, a tourist from Delhi who survived the fire, claimed that firecrackers burst all around when dancers were performing, which could have triggered the fire. There was a stampede-like situation, she said. The Opposition targeted the BJP government in the state over the tragedy. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, said he was deeply pained by the incident. This is not just an accident; it is a criminal failure of safety and governance, he said on X. Deeply pained by the tragic fire in Arpora, Goa that claimed more than 20 lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured. This is not just an accident, it is a criminal failure of safety and governance. A thorough, Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 7, 2025 The AAP stated the Sawant government has lost the moral right to stay in power. (With inputs from PTI)
'I give up': Engineering student found hanging in Noida hostel; health issues emerge in probe
A third-year engineering student was discovered hanging in his Noida hostel room. A suicide note was found. The student, Krishnakant, was an MCA student at NIET. His roommate reported a long-standing severe headache. Police are investigating the incident. The body has been sent for post-mortem.
How Nova Dairy built its network; Diagnostics solutions for Bharat
Nova Dairy, the consumer-facing arm of Sterling Agro Industries Ltd., has grown from a modest retail setup in Old Delhi to one of the prominent private-sector entities with integrated supply chains and modern processing facilities.
PM to open Vande Mataram debate in LS today
NEW DELHI: THE penultimate week of the Parliament session is set to be very busy, with both Houses set to debate Vande Mataram and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will open the debate on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram in the Lok Sabha, where he is expected to highlight several previously unknown facets of the national song. The BJP has been allotted three hours for its interventions in the Lok Sabha, while the total debate time will span about 10 hours. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to be the second speaker in the debate, which will also feature the participation of Congress Deputy Leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Deepender Hooda, Manipur MP Dr Bimol Akoijam, and Praniti Shinde, among others. The Rajya Sabha will take up the debate on Vande Mataram on Tuesday, with Home Minister Amit Shah leading the discussion. Health Minister and Leader of the Rajya Sabha J P Nadda will be the second speaker. The debate on Vande Mataram is likely to see fireworks as the Congress and BJP were at loggerheads over the latters allegations that important stanzas of the national song were dropped in 1937, which sowed the seeds of partition. While inaugurating the year-long commemoration of Vande Mataram to mark its 150 years, Modi said a divisive mindset is still a challenge for India. In response, the Congress said the PM insulted Vande Mataram, noting that Rabindranath Tagore himself had recommended adopting only the first two stanzas. The Lok Sabha will take up the debate on SIR on Tuesday and Wednesday. Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi will speak on SIR on Tuesday. He is also expected to raise the issue of vote theft and the accountability of the Election Commission of India. During the debate on SIR, the Opposition members are also expected to raise suicides of Booth Level Officers reportedly due to intense work pressure related to the voter list re-verification drive. Key opposition leaders including Congresss K C Venugopal and Manish Tewari, DMKs Kanimozhi, and Samajwadi Partys Akhilesh Yadav are also expected to take part in the discussions.
Delhi braces for cold wave as air quality slips to very poor at 302
The minimum temperature settled at 8 degrees Celsius, which is 1.6 notches below normal, while the relative humidity in the morning touched 100 per cent
On December 8, 2025, gold prices in India range from Rs 12,965 per 1 gram for 24K gold and Rs 11,884 per 1 gram for 22K gold. Silver is priced at Rs 1,90,900 per kilogram. Check city-wise rates here.
Fear is always in the room, says comedian-actor Vir Das at BLF
As Vir Das enters the Bangalore Literature Festival (BLF) stage with the kind of disarming candour he is known for and breaks the ice instantly, it dissolves the line between a performer and the audience. He jokes about everything, yet keeps it intense and subtle at the same time and looks around the crowd, half-amused, half-awed, as if he has entered a room he isnt sure he deserves to be in, a theme that runs through his new memoir, The Outsider: A Memoir for Misfits . Its my first literature festival ever, Im arguably the stupidest person here, he quips. With the recently released book in his hand, he notes that writing has quietly shaped him as a mirror of his life. Writing a book forced me to confront my life, he shares. Stand-ups, Das says, are always moving theres neither time for celebration nor introspection, but writing the book changed that. When you write a book about your life, you to confront it. I realised what a backlog of things I hadnt dealt with in years. When asked how BLF compares to other events, he shrugs. Never been to one before. Im hoping the others are this good. Its different from a stand-up show. Everybodys sober here, Das laughs, adding that what stays with him is the people: I got to spend five seconds with so many people today and just be awed by how intelligent and passionate they are. I dont know if Ill ever have a massive audience. But I think I have a massively passionate audience, and thats a far greater privilege. The signing process at the event, he says, filled him with unexpected gratitude. It made me 300 per cent more grateful for the journey I had, for the people Ive met, for the cumulative effect theyve had on me. That, he believes, is the books core: remembering the people who carried him. Yet he hopes the readers carry a moment of what he felt while writing the memoir, which is that its okay to feel lost. Its okay not to belong, or to be an outcast. All of that is an identity you can hold, he points out. During the session, he went deeper into this idea, as he stated, Ive been a boarding school kid in Delhi Public School, a DPS kid in Galesburg, Illinois, an Indian accent in American drama school, a westernised accent in Indian movies... Ive never fully belonged. The memoir grew from this space the sense of gatecrashing every world he entered. Youre sitting at a party thinking, How the hell did I get invited here? But I think most people feel that way. They just dont say it, he jokes, noting how success didnt smooth the edges. You ask him about courage, especially in a world where his jokes have invited FIRs, abuse and even threats, he says, Im always scared. Ninety per cent of it is pretending youre brave. Fear is in the room; you acknowledge it, just dont judge it. He also laughs about being told to keep quiet and do gym jokes, but stand-up, he insists, relies on authenticity. If youre apolitical in your 40s, what kind of life have you had?, he asks. Yet amidst the hullabaloo, the role that feels closest to him today is directing. I just made my first movie, Happy Patel (bankrolled by Aamir Khan Productions, teaser of which was released recently), and I just fell in love with directing. Its indeed the accumulation of everything Ive learned writing, performance, storytelling, he says, winding up the chat with a wide smile. A Lit Fest Amish, author, The Chola Tigers -Avengers of Somnath Sadly, many Indians do not know their mother tongue well. Many of the youngsters are reading Hindi in the Roman script, not in the original Devanagari script Sudha Murty, author, The Circle of Life I have written 25 books for children because many parents, grandparents and teachers are busy, and children need stories with good values Chetan Bhagat, author, 12 Years Theres an assumption that movies are the ultimate prize. Even I believed that. But its no longer the focus. The entertainment industry is fun but stressful * With the 14th edition of the Bangalore Literature Festival taking place at Freedom Park cherished for its open atmosphere the space proved to be more than just any other. It offered a sense of breathing room right in the heart of the city, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its history and stories. The Central Jail, back in the day, the space came alive with session venues being named watchtower, open cell, left barrack and right barrack. * Despite travel disruptions due to flight cancellations, many speakers made it to the Freedom Park. The much-anticipated session with English-Vinglish filmmaker Gauri Shinde was cancelled. * While the space was spruced up for the event, it faced challenges a few issues in accommodating the crowds, especially with limited washroom facilities. * The festivals first day saw a higher footfall, outpacing the second day, as literature enthusiasts and bibliophiles flocked to sessions, especially those of Vir Das, Banu Mushtaq and Sudha Murty. * Reminiscing the legacy of the late SL Bhyrappa, the session Remembering SL Bhyrappa by Krishnamurthy Hanuru left audiences reflecting on his legendary literary contributions and who he was beyond that.
Pak slams Indian EAMs remarks against its military
Islamabad, Dec 7: Pakistan on Sunday criticised External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars remarks against its military, saying its institutions, including armed forces, are a pillar of national security. Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit in New Delhi on Saturday, Jaishankar said much of Indias problem emanates from Pakistans military and even referred to its []
A devastating fire at a nightclub in Goa, claiming the lives of 25 people, has thrown a glaring spotlight on the inadequate fire safety measures in Delhi's entertainment spots. In spite of existing regulations, many venues suffer from overcrowded layouts, obstructed exits, and flammable decor, while maintenance seems to be a low priority.
Man poses as film industry insider to execute high value forex frauds pan India
PANAJI, Dec 7 : All 25 victims killed in the Goa nightclub fire tragedy have been identified, including 20 members of the staff and five tourists, authorities said on Sunday night. Among the five tourists who died in the inferno, four were from Delhi, including three members of a single family. The fifth tourist was from Karnataka. The state government released a list of all 25 victims on Sunday night. A massive fire raged through `Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub [] The post Goa nightclub fire: 25 victims include 20 staff members and 5 tourists- three of them from Delhi family appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
US Fed decision, FIIs trading to drive markets this week
New Delhi, Dec 7: The US Feds interest rate decision will be the major factor dictating trends in the domestic equity market this week, with global movements and foreign investor activity also influencing sentiment, according to analysts. Stock markets ended the last week on a subdued note, with benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty closing flat. []
New Delhi, Dec 7: The governments recent decision to cut GST rates on a range of farm-related products is expected to reduce costs for small and marginal farmers and help them adopt better agricultural practices, Fertiliser Minister J P Nadda has told Parliament. Nadda said the GST on micronutrient fertilisers was reduced from 12 per []
EU team to meet Goyal today on FTA
New Delhi, Dec 7: The visiting European Union (EU) team will hold discussions with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday on the progress of negotiations on the proposed free trade agreement, an official said. The meeting is important as both sides are eager to conclude the negotiations as early as possible. The team, []
Rajasthan dominates 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent KATRA, Dec 7: The 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Championship 2025 concluded at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sports Complex, Katra, after three days of spirited competition and exemplary sportsmanship. The championship, organised by J&K Lacrosse Association under the aegis of the Lacrosse Association of India, witnessed participation from 15 States including Gujarat, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Delhi, and J&K. Around 280 male and female players showcased talent, [] The post Rajasthan dominates 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Constituents for introspection on Omars remarks
NEW DELHI, Dec 7: A day after Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the INDIA bloc is currently on life support, several other constituents raised concerns over the issue of lack of coordination in the alliance and called for an introspection. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) were among those who stressed on the need for reenergising the opposition alliance. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp RJD leader Manoj Jha called the [] The post Constituents for introspection on Omars remarks appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
A choke point every evening, NHAI closes DME-NH9 cut for 6 months
PM to initiate debate on Vande Mataram today
NEW DELHI, Dec 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate the debate on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram in Lok Sabha on Monday, which is expected to bring to light several important and previously unknown facets about the national song. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Lok Sabha has listed Discussion on the 150th anniversary of national song Vande Mataram on Monday and allocated 10 hours for the debate. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to be the [] The post PM to initiate debate on Vande Mataram today appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pak criticises Jaishakars remarks against its military
ISLAMABAD, Dec 7: Pakistan on Sunday criticised External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars remarks against its military, saying its institutions, including armed forces, are a pillar of national security. Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit in New Delhi on Saturday, Jaishankar said much of Indias problem emanates from Pakistans military and even referred to its support for terror groups. Like there are good terrorists and bad terrorists, there are good military leaders and apparently not-so-good ones, he said, seen as [] The post Pak criticises Jaishakars remarks against its military appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
City Fires Up AI Grind To Code, Craft & Create Future Thinkers
DTC driver beaten to death after jam due to wedding triggers spat
A DTC bus driver was beaten to death by wedding guests in Delhi after a road rage incident. The driver, Vikas, was allegedly assaulted when his bus got stuck behind a marriage procession. One suspect has been arrested, while three others remain at large.
Missing grass, piling debris: Greater Noida parks in urgent need for makeover
AQI remains very poor in Noida and Ghaziabad, improves to poor in Greater Noida
Noida woman, her brother-in-law handed life term for husbands murder 11 years ago
After jewellers murder, Ghaziabad traders seek police patrolling
Man disguised as woman arrested for house theft in Delhi
Kiran Rao Clarifies Tokyo Confusion
Amid IndiGo delays, the filmmaker used a destination metaphor for her long wait, later confirming she was headed to Delhi
Five held for stealing 1 kg of gold in guise of Delhi police
Omars INDIA on life support remark: Constituents call for introspection, BJP says bloc dead
New Delhi: A day after Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the INDIA bloc is currently on life support, several other constituents raised concerns over the issue of lack of coordination in the alliance and called for an introspection. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) were among those 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 .
Govt. will empower every student, school, community with AI: Delhi CM
Delhi cricketer awarded 1.5 cr. for helping India win World Cup
25 killed in Goa nightclub inferno; police team in Delhi to arrest owners
Fireworks likely cause of blaze; 4 staffers held
Indias mobile hospital treats Over 2200 in Sri Lanka relief
Colombo: A mobile hospital set up by India in Sri Lanka has provided medical care to over 2,200 people affected by Cyclone Ditwah, as New Delhi ramped up its assistance to the flood-ravaged island nation with engineering support and delivery of fresh relief consignments, the Indian mission here said on Sunday. Sri Lanka has been 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 .
Gangajal may reach all sectors in Greater Noida by March next year
Celebratory shots fired at wedding in Noida, cops launch probe
To save intangible heritage is to save worlds cultural diversity: PM Modi
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said intangible heritage carries the moral and emotional memories of societies, urging its preservation to save the worlds cultural diversity. His written message to a gathering of delegates attending the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), being held at the []
PM to initiate debate on Vande Mataram in LS today
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will initiate the debate on the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram in Lok Sabha on Monday, which is expected to bring to light several important and previously unknown facets about the national song. Lok Sabha has listed Discussion on the 150th anniversary of national song Vande Mataram on Monday []
SC to hear wifes plea challenging Sonam Wangchuks detention today
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court will on Monday hear a plea filed by Gitanjali J Angmo, wife of jailed climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, terming his detention under the National Security Act illegal, and an arbitrary exercise violating his fundamental rights. A bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and N V Anjaria is likely to hear the []
Chinese national quizzed for visiting Kashmir without permission
A 29-year-old Chinese tourist faced questioning in Budgam, Kashmir, for unauthorized travel to J&K and Ladakh, violating his visa. He claimed to have visited Zanskar and expressed interest in books about Kashmir. The man, who arrived in Delhi on November 19, flew to Leh without registering, potentially facing deportation.
DGCA grants IndiGo CEO, Accountable Manager 24-hour extension to repond to show cause notices
NEW DELHI: Aviation watchdog DGCA on Sunday gave more time to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and the Accountable Manager Isidro Porqueras to submit their responses to the show causes notices seeking their explanations on the flight disruptions. Both have been granted 24 hours more or time till 6 pm on Monday to submit their replies, a senior official said on Sunday. For six days in a row, IndiGo flight operations have been significantly disrupted resulting in massive flight cancellations and delays impacting travel plans of thousands of passengers. Against this backdrop, the regulator had issued the show cause notices. In the show cause notices issued on Saturday, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had asked Elbers and Porqueras to give their replies by Sunday evening. The official said the deadline for replies were extended following requests from both the airline executives. The two executives on Sunday had sought additional time for a response citing operational constraints due to the scale of its nationwide operations and multiple unavoidable factors that contributed to disruptions across several airports, the official said. According to the official, DGCA continues to monitor the situation closely. According tonews agency PTI , the airline is operating 1,650 flights of its 2,300 daily domestic and international flights on Sunday, after the carrier's schedule chaos over the past few days led to hundreds of cancellations and delays, affecting thousands of passengers. The airline has so far processed refunds totalling Rs 610 crore and delivered 3,000 pieces of baggage to passengers across the country as of Saturday, the government saidon Sunday. Earlier today, the Civil Aviation Ministry website reported that the airline's on-time performance from six metro airports had improved to 20.7 per cent on Saturday. IndiGo said it is expecting to stabilise the operations by December 10 against the earlier anticipated timeline of December 10-15. On Friday, IndiGo cancelled about 1,600 of its 2,300 daily flights. Disruptions eased slightly on Saturday, with cancellations dropping to around 800 , according to sources. (With inputs from PTI) IndiGo flight disruptions ease, cancellations drop to 650 on Sunday; 'step by step we're getting back,' says CEO Is IndiGo too big to fail? And what about lack of pilots leading to the flight chaos theory?
No mention about Mango symbol in Delhi HC verdict
Israel defence firm confirms first batch of 4,000 LMGs to India early next year
NEW DELHI: The Indian Armys infantry will receive a significant firepower boost beginning early next year, with Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) confirming the delivery of the first batch of 40,000 light machine guns (LMGs). The supply contract, signed last year, has cleared all tests, trials and government checks, and IWI has received the necessary production licence. We intend to supply the first batch at the beginning of the year. The full LMG supply is planned over five years, though we can deliver faster, said Shuki Schwartz, CEO of IWI, addressing reporters visiting Israel. IWI is also in the final stages of securing another major contract to supply nearly 1.7 lakh new-age Close Quarter Battle (CQB) carbines, part of the Ministry of Defences (MoD) requirement of 4.25 lakh 5.56x45 mm carbines under the Buy (Indian) category. While Bharat Forge is the primary bidder, PLR Systemsan Adani Group subsidiary with IWI partnershipwill supply 40 per cent of the carbines. We are in the pre-signing stage and expect the CQB carbine contract to be finalised by the end of this year or early next year, Schwartz said. IWI and PLR Systems are also collaborating on the Arbel system, a futuristic computerised weapon technology that uses advanced algorithms to enhance precision and optimise ammunition use. Initial discussions with Indian agencies are underway, with plans for co-production in Israel and India, pending approval. Beyond the Army, IWI is expanding its footprint across the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which oversees nearly 10 lakh personnel in Central Armed Police Forces. The company is in talks to supply a range of pistols, rifles, and machine guns across multiple smaller contracts. Annual supplies could reach tens of thousands of weapons, Schwartz indicated, given growing demand and urgency. IWI has been an early participant in the Make in India initiative, leveraging PLR Systems to increase domestic manufacturing. Indias long-pending modernisation drive for infantry weapons has accelerated in recent years. In March 2020, the MoD finalised a contract for 16,479 Negev 7.62x51 mm LMGs, valued at Rs 880 crore, calling the weapon combat-proven and critical to enhancing frontline lethality. The Defence Acquisition Council approved another project to procure additional 7.62x51 mm LMGs in August 2023. CQB carbines are essential for close-range, urban and counterterrorism operations, while LMGs serve as the backbone of infantry squads by providing mobile, sustained automatic fire. The new inductions are expected to significantly boost the Armys firepower, improve infantry effectiveness and strengthen Indias operational preparedness across theatres.
NIOS Is Meant To Handhold Weak Students. Instead, Most Being Allowed To Drift Away
Stray menace: Ghaziabads Vaishali residents raise alarm over dogs & cattle on roads
2 held for killing, dumping friends body in a canal in Noida
IndiGo CEO, accountable manager get more time for replies to DGCA notices
New Delhi: Aviation watchdog DGCA on Sunday gave more time to IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers and the Accountable Manager Isidro Porqueras to submit their responses to the show causes notices seeking their explanations on the flight disruptions. Both have been granted 24 hours more or time till 6 pm on Monday to submit their replies, 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 .
IndiGo crisis eases after six days; 610 crore refunded as govt. tightens oversight
On December 7, the airline operated around 1,650 of its scheduled 2,300 domestic and international flights, while 650 remained cancelled; flight disruptions persisted across major airports, though at a reduced scale, with 115 cancellations in Hyderabad, 112 in Mumbai, 109 in Delhi, 38 in Chennai and 11 in Amritsar
Didnt Consult Us: Lawyer Of Major Vikrants Wife Counters Celina Jaitly's Court Move
The actor recently moved to the Delhi High Court seeking consular access and communication with her brother, claiming she had been unable to speak with him.
Delhi govt outlines waste management expansion plan to meet targets by 2028
Tech-driven transparency for ration distribution finalised
Five minors apprehended for allegedly murdering man after quarrel over crime proceeds in Delhi
Clean winter air remains pipe dream, AQI to stay very poor in coming days
Rekha condoles deaths in Goa fire, Atishi urges strong action
Work on Kanjhawala-Karala drain set to start on Dec 9
Post-2019 Kashmir Policy Failed: Mehbooba Mufti Points To Delhi Blast
Former Chief Minister and People's Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti has said the Centre's policy on Jammu and Kashmir after the scrapping of Article 370 has failed and urged New Delhi to begin a process of reconciliation.
Man arrested for allegedly assaulting judge during road rage incident in east Delhi
Sood inspects night shelters, says no one must sleep out in cold
Victims Killed In Goa Nightclub Fire Identified, 3 Of Them From Delhi Family
All 25 victims killed in the Goa nightclub fire tragedy have been identified, including 20 members of the staff and five tourists, authorities said on Sunday night.
Rajnath Singh inaugurates record 125 BRO projects in Ladakh
NEW DELHI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described Operation Sindoor as a historic success, crediting the missions scale and efficiency to Indias rapidly strengthened border connectivity. Singh, who was in Ladakh to inaugurate 125 strategically significant infrastructure projects of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) the highest number ever launched simultaneously, said the forces exercised restraint despite having the capability to go further. Speaking about the counter-operation launched after the Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said, Our Armed Forces launched the operation in response to the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Everybody knows what befell those terrorists. We could have done much more, but our forces, demonstrating both courage and patience, did only what was necessary. The success of the operation was made possible by seamless logistics and uninterrupted connectivity to forward areas. The projects inaugurated on Sunday span two Union Territories Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir and seven states: Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Mizoram. They include 28 roads, 93 bridges and four miscellaneous facilities, collectively built at an estimated cost of Rs 5,000 crore, marking the highest-value set of inaugurations in BROs history. As first reported by The New Indian Express , the assets represent a major boost to Indias border infrastructure push. These upgraded roads and bridges are expected to significantly enhance last-mile connectivity to remote villages and forward military posts, helping integrate these areas more closely into the national mainstream. The main event was held on the DarbukShyokDaulat Beg Oldie road at the newly completed Shyok Tunnel, one of the marquee projects unveiled by the minister. Calling the tunnel an engineering feat built in one of the worlds toughest terrains, Singh said the 920-metre cut-and-cover structure will ensure all-weather access to a strategically vital region frequently cut off by heavy snowfall, avalanches and extreme temperatures. The tunnel, he said, will boost mobility, security and rapid deployment capability, especially during harsh winters. Singh also virtually inaugurated the Galwan War Memorial in Ladakh, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. Reaffirming the governments commitment to developing border regions, the Defence Minister said robust connectivity acts as a lifeline for security, economic growth and disaster management. There are numerous benefits of strong border infrastructure. It enables military mobility, smooth transport of logistics, increased tourism and employment opportunities, and most importantly greater public faith in development, democracy and the government, he said. He noted that the BRO spent a record Rs 16,690 crore in 202425 and has been set a target of Rs 18,700 crore for 202526. In the past two years alone, 356 BRO projects have been dedicated to the nation, underscoring the agencys capability to operate in high-altitude, snowbound, desert, flood-prone and forested terrain. The Union Budget 202526 has raised the BROs allocation from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 7,146 crore, reflecting its expanding role in national security and development.
Quad Officials Meet Twice In A Week: India, US Host Talks On Counter-Terrorism, Humanitarian Aid
India hosted the third Quad Counter Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) meeting in New Delhi on December 4 and 5, while the US hosted the HADR Tabletop Exercise and Strategic Meeting.
Severe cold grips north India; IMD warns of cold wave, fog across multiple states
NEW DELHI: Cold conditions prevailed across north India on Sunday, with the Amarnath yatra base camp being the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan reporting minimum temperatures between three and seven degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said cold wave conditions were very likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Monday and Tuesday. In Delhi, the minimum temperature was recorded at eight degrees, up from 6.8 degrees a day ago and yet 1.6 notches below normal. The maximum temperature was 24.7 degrees Celsius, 0.1 notch below normal, while the relative humidity was 92 per cent in the morning. For Monday, the weather department forecast a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius, with mist expected. Pollution levels in Delhi remained in the very poor category on Sunday, prolonging the spell of toxic air that has hung over its residents for several weeks now. The city logged a 24-hour average AQI of 308. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor and 401 and 500 severe. Further in the north, the night temperatures in Kashmir rose by several degrees but stayed below the freezing point, officials said. The Pahalgam resort in south Kashmir, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath yatra, was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir as the minimum settled at a low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, a rise of 3.2 degrees compared to the previous night. The gateway town to the valley, Qazigund, recorded a low of minus one degree Celsius, while the minimum settled at minus 0.8 degree Celsius in north Kashmir's Kupwara, and 1.1 degrees Celsius in south Kashmir's Kokernag, according to officials. The meteorological department said the weather would remain generally cloudy but dry on Sunday, and a brief spell of light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches of north and central Kashmir is likely on December 8. In Himachal Pradesh, The IMD predicted dense fog in parts of the state until Wednesday. A yellow alert for dense fog was also issued in parts of the reservoir area of the Bhakra dam in Bilaspur district and over some parts of the Balh valley in Mandi district during early morning till Monday. In Punjab, Faridkot remained the coldest place, with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius, while in Haryana, Narnaul saw the lowest temperature at 4.6 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda and Gurdaspur recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, while Ferozepur recorded 6 degrees, Amritsar 6.1 degrees, Ludhiana 6.8 degrees, and Patiala 8.9 degrees. In Haryana, Bhiwani recorded a low of six degrees, Hisar 6.2 degrees, Sirsa 6.6 degrees, Karnal seven degrees, Rohtak 7.8 degrees, and Ambala 9.8 degrees. Rajasthan, similarly, reeled under intense cold, the Meteorological Centre here said. Fatehpur in the Sikar district continued to record the lowest minimum temperature, albeit at 3.5 degrees Celsius, slightly up from 2.3 degrees a day ago. According to the weather department, Lunkaransar (Bikaner) recorded a low of 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Dausa at 6 degrees, Churu at 6.3 degrees, Vanasthali (Tonk) at 6.4 degrees and Jhunjhunu at 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The department said a fresh but weak western disturbance is likely to cause partly cloudy skies in some parts of the state over the next few days. Under its influence, the minimum temperature is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, providing relief from the cold wave, it said. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, eight districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, noting a cold wave in parts of the state. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 3.5 degrees Celsius up from three degrees Celsius while Khunti logged five degrees Celsius, the IMD weather bulletin stated. The minimum temperature in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, was 7.5 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 6.5 degrees and Jamshedpur recorded 9.6 degrees Celsius. Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, Abhishek Anand, said, North-westerly winds prevailing in the lower tropospheric levels over Jharkhand have caused the drop in mercury. Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail across the state over the next five days.The minimum temperature may rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next 72 hours, he added. In West Bengal, the mercury dipped below the 10-degree mark for the first time this winter in the state's plains with Sriniketan in Birbhum districts recording a minimum temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the IMD said. Its forecast for West Bengal suggested dry weather across all districts of West Bengal for the next week, with shallow to moderate fog likely in the northern districts. Darjeeling was the coldest in the hills at 6.2 degrees Celsius, while the other Himalayan tourist town of Kalimpong was warmer at 10.5 degrees Celsius. The other places which recorded low night temperatures are Alipurduar (11 degrees), Kalyani (11.4 degrees), Purulia (11.4 degrees) and Panagarh (11.9 degrees). Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 15.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, forecasting mist in the morning on Monday. IMD further predicted dense fog conditions in isolated pockets of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between December 8 and 12. It was also very likely in parts of west Madhya Pradesh on Monday and in Odisha until Tuesday. In west India, a gradual fall by two to three degrees over the next three-four days is expected, and no significant change is anticipated thereafter, the IMD said.
Naming spree in Hyderabad: A Trump Avenue, Google Street and Microsoft Road
Earlier this year, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, while addressing the annual US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) conclave in New Delhi, had proposed naming important roads in Hyderabad after leading global corporations
