Delhi

Record savings for people on medical expenses under Ayushman Bharat: PM

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said more than 60 crore beneficiaries now have access to Rs 5 lakh annual health cover under Ayushman Bharat, as the flagship healthcare programme completed eight years. In a post on X marking the occasion, Modi said Ayushman Bharat was rolled out eight years ago with the [] The post Record savings for people on medical expenses under Ayushman Bharat: PM appeared first on Northlines .

India rubbishes

NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday categorically rejected the unwarranted and factually incorrect references to India in the joint communique of an OIC Contact Group on Jammu and Kashmir, and said the OIC has no locus standi to pronounce on matters that are strictly internal to India. The entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and [] The post India rubbishes unwarranted references in OIC communique on J&K appeared first on Northlines .

Delhi HC seeks DU, candidates response on victory processions

Cabinet approves DURGA scheme for e-autos in Delhi

Delhis infra-governance problem

PGs and coaching institutes need to be recognised as a separate category of mixed-use educational buildings under municipal and urban local body regulations

ECI's ERONET Controversy: Voter Database Row, Software Errors & 17.6 Million Notices Raise Questions

Around 17.6 million voters across Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Delhi have received notices over logical discrepancies during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). At the centre of the controversy is ERONET, now integrated into ECINET. The Indian Express has reported concerns over voter database access and control, while individual cases highlight spelling, translation and age-calculation errors. We examine the Election Commissions response, the experiences of affected voters, the Goa case involving 97 voters, and the legal role of Electoral Registration Officers. Who controls the system, and how can voter records be corrected?

India reaffirms commitment to strengthening longstanding partnership with Armenia

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Rudrendra Tandon, represented India at the National Day celebrations of the Republic of Armenia, reaffirming New Delhi's commitment to further strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two countries, the MEA said on Wednesday. Secretary (East) Shri Rudrendra Tandon represented India at the National Day celebrations of the Republic of Armenia. He reaffirmed commitment to further strengthening the longstanding partnership between India and Armenia and to working towards advancing cooperation across diverse sectors of mutual interest, MEA stated on X. Earlier this month, a five-member delegation of the Armenian Armed Forces, led by Major General Alexander Tsakanyan, visited an Indian Air Force (IAF) station under Western Air Command and undertook a guided tour of operational and maintenance facilities. Strengthening India-Armenia Defence Cooperation: A five-member delegation of the Armenian Armed Forces, led by Maj Gen Alexander Tsakanyan, visited an Indian Air Force station under Western Air Command. The delegation undertook a guided tour of operational and maintenance facilities, the IAF had stated on X. The visit strengthened military-to-military engagement. It fostered mutual understanding, knowledge sharing and operational interoperability. It also reaffirmed the enduring defence ties between India and Armenia, it added. In August, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in defence research, development, innovation and joint production during Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh's two-day visit to Yerevan on August 16 and 17. Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh called on the Minister of High Tech Industry, Armenia, Mr Davit Tadevosyan in Yerevan on August 17, 2026. The two sides signed an MoU on cooperation in research, development, innovation and shared production in the defence industry, reaffirming their commitment to expand bilateral defence industrial cooperation in areas of mutual interest, the ministry mentioned on X. During his visit, the Defence Secretary also met Armenian Defence Minister Suren Papikyan in Yerevan, where they explored new avenues to strengthen defence cooperation further. Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh called on the Minister of Defence of Armenia, Mr Suren Papikyan, in Yerevan on August 17, 2026. The two sides explored new avenues to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation further, reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening and elevating the India-Armenia defence partnership, the Ministry of Defence stated on X.

MoD Signs 811-Crore Deal With BDL For 160 Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons

The contract, signed in New Delhi on Wednesday in the presence of defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, has been placed under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category.

Sonam Wangchuk leads march in Leh

The Kargil Democratic Alliance held a similar march in Kargil, where hundreds of people participated, including members of the Socialist Party of India and a group of students from Delhi University.

Delhi-bound flight returns to London after technical snag

Car flips after trying to avoid e-rickshaw in Delhi, passenger escapes through rear window

A WagonR overturned near the Shakti Nagar roundabout in Delhi, with the entire incident captured on video. The footage, which is now circulating on social media, shows the car losing control before hitting the divider and flipping over.

Ladakh's unfinished settlement: Negotiation, representation and power

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Many in Ladakh welcomed the August 5, 2019, abrogation of Article 370, bifurcating Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs), a demand they had been pushing for years, realising that they have been ignored in favour of Kashmir. Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk had then tweeted, Ladakh thanks @narendramodi @PMOIndia for fulfilling Ladakh's longstanding dream. It was exactly 30 years ago in August 1989 that Ladakhi leaders launched a movement for UT status. Thank you all who helped in this democratic decentralisation. Soon doubts began to arise. The reason for dissatisfaction included not being consulted over the abrogation, creation of a UT without a Legislature. It also led to reduction of four MLAs which Ladakh sent to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. Finally, they began assuming that they were being exploited to meet the Centre's interest in managing Kashmir. Those who had initially welcomed the move began agitating against it. Initial protests began with four demands. The first was converting Ladakh into a state, thereby giving more power to the people. The second was legal protection under the Sixth Schedule to safeguard culture, language and land rights. They also sought job reservations and an additional Lok Sabha seat, thereby providing independent representations for both Leh and Kargil regions. The Home Ministry, in response to demands created a committee under the Minister of State for Home to examine the complaints as also interact with representatives of the region. Ladakh was represented by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA). Sonam Wangchuk, exploiting his public fame and reputation for persistent hunger strikes pushed his way to become a member of the negotiating team and worked to become the face of the protests. He has been seeking a greater political role and recognition. Protests crossed limits during Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike on September 24 last year when clashes with the police resulted in four deaths and many injured. Sonam Wangchuk was arrested and spent six months in jail before being released in March this year. It took some time before talks resumed again. Sonam Wangchuk had attempted similar tactics of violence when he fasted at the Cockroach Janta Party protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi recently, but was instead exploited by the organisers and finally dumped. He now seeks to regain his standing. The latest round of talks between the Centre and representatives of Ladakh were held on September 9 this year. In this round, it was decided that there would be a UT-level elected body with Legislative, Executive and Financial powers. Its members would be chosen by direct elections, another demand from local negotiators. Delimitation would be done separately for Ladakh and constitutional protection guaranteed for environment, culture, heritage, land and natural resources under a special provision of Article 371, especially designed for Ladakh. This would not be alterable without a two-third majority in the Parliament. However, the Union government was hesitant to guarantee all powers across the board, including law and order, largely because of its location and sensitive environment in the region, mainly Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier rounds had already delivered reservations in government posts. A domicile framework has also been put in place; five languages notified and a third of Hill Council seats reserved for women. On its part, Ladakh groups were willing to give up their demand for statehood in case the proposal of the Legislative body met their requirements. Thus, progress was evident and major aspects cleared, pending fine tuning. The Centre also released Rs 1.52 crore as compensation for those killed or wounded in the protests of September last year, with families of those killed receiving Rs 15 lakh each. What remained unsettled was dividing powers between Hill Councils and the new territorial body. The Centre faced the problem that both claimed the same subjects, forests, land and local administration. Unless these are divided further action cannot be taken. There was no satisfactory common solution provided by the participants. Hence, they were given eight to ten questions on the subject, the answers of which they should submit after discussing with local residents. This would resolve this issue. These were to be submitted in the next round of talks in October. The Chief Secretary of Ladakh Ashish Kundra even mentioned that the Centre was not keen to impose a model which was unacceptable to the local populace. However, Sonam Wangchuk began pushing a fake narrative that unless they received an assurance from the Union government that no major decisions would be undertaken by the UT government until the changes were implemented, fresh protests would commence. It was evident that he was seeking an excuse to instigate violence as he took to social media platform X while visiting Jantar Mantar and said, Only tea was good in the meeting, otherwise no new decision. Senior politicians from Ladakh, including former MP Thupstan Chhewang urged Ladakhi leaders to continue building on the progress made thus far, rather than return to the streets, which would push all progress under the carpet. He described the last meeting as 'positive' and went on to say that several positive developments and points of consensus discussed during the meeting were not brought before the people. Even the LAB and KDA in a joint statement after the talks mentioned that the meeting furthered the in-principle understanding reached in the May and July talks. It appears that Sonam Wangchuk, who was losing his grip in the movement, especially after being incarcerated for six months, is now looking to re-emerge as the face. In the next few days, despite all pleading by senior members from Ladakh, Sonam Wangchuk will begin his trademark hunger strike, on some pretext, commence a padyatra to garner support and finally push for violence. He will exploit the Gen Z in a similar manner as he did in the Cockroach Janta Party protest in Delhi. His ambition is to be the individual who grabs power in the new government, sidelining the current leadership, for which he is willing to do anything, including loss of innocent lives. It is with this intention that Sonam Wangchuk twisted what was actually discussed and progress achieved, concentrating instead on pushing his concept of 'all or nothing'. Rather than accept that the Centre is interested in resolving issues and moving forward to complete actions under a democratic framework, Sonam Wangchuk is instigating protests and violence. Sonam Wangchuk's actions would offset negotiations, delaying the process as also impacting governance at all levels. As long as negotiations continue, elections at Panchayat and Hill Council levels are held up, stopping local development, especially for five newly created districts. Funds meant for development cannot be allocated and the process slows down. Recruitment, too, cannot commence impacting the youth. What should have led to progress is now being exploited to push political agendas. It is hoped that the youth of Ladakh understand that the Centre is not seeking confrontation rather collaboration and resolution to satisfaction of locals. They must listen to saner voices and not become involved in ongoing power struggles for power. (Major General Harsha Kakar (retired) is a former Indian Army officer, strategic analyst and columnist) harsha/khz

Nagaland: Filmmaker Theja Rio returns to Delhi after

Dimapur: After winning the Platform Competition at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2026 for his film Angh, director Theja Rio arrived in New Delhi from Toronto on Tuesday. He was accorded a warm reception by the Angami Krotho Delhi and well-wishers upon his return from Toronto at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport. Angh, the [] The post Nagaland: Filmmaker Theja Rio returns to Delhi after Angh wins at TIFF 2026 appeared first on NorthEast Now .

China-Pak boundary commission: A technical body with larger strategic message (IANS Analysis)

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The activation of the ChinaPakistan Boundary Joint Commission may look like routine diplomacy. But behind its language of surveys, trade and border markers lies a larger dispute over who has the right to manage territory connected to Kashmir. China and Pakistan call the commission practical; India sees it as an attempt to make a disputed arrangement appear permanent. A New Mechanism China and Pakistan operationalised the commission at its first meeting in Islamabad on September 16-17, 2026. The meeting was co-chaired by Li Ya of Chinas Foreign Ministry and Bilal Mahmood Chaudhary of Pakistans Foreign Ministry. They discussed border management, joint surveys, cross-border movement, trade and people-to-people links and agreed to meet again in China. The commission was created under the 2013 ChinaPakistan Agreement on the Boundary Management System. Article 45 provides for a joint body to supervise border-management arrangements. Its duties include inspecting the frontier, conducting surveys, maintaining markers, managing cross-border facilities and dealing with incidents. If a marker cannot be returned to its original position, the commission may choose another site, but it is not supposed to alter the boundary line. The aim sounds administrative. Yet each survey, inspection and facility can strengthen control when a borders legal status is contested. The Unresolved Foundation The commission rests on older history. China and Pakistan signed their original boundary agreement in Beijing on March 2, 1963. It placed the Shaksgam Valley, also known as the Trans-Karakoram Tract, under Chinese control. India says the territory is part of Ladakh and that Pakistan had no right to transfer it. New Delhi has never recognised the 1963 agreement and calls it illegal and invalid. The 1963 agreement described the settlement as provisional. Article 6 said that after India and Pakistan settled the Kashmir dispute, the sovereign authority concerned would reopen negotiations with China and sign a formal boundary treaty. This clause is central to the criticism, the original arrangement acknowledged that Kashmir was unresolved, while the new commission creates a continuing system for managing the frontier. India says the disputed area covers about 5,180 square kilometres in the Shaksgam Valley. For New Delhi, the issue concerns sovereignty and Pakistans authority to negotiate over territory it claims. Trade and Strategic Access The Commission supports trade and movement through the Khunjerab Pass, the main land route linking Chinas Xinjiang region with Pakistan. The pass is connected to the Karakoram Highway and the ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor. Coordination can help customs and transport, but can also deepen the routes strategic value. India objects to CPEC projects passing through Pakistan-administered Kashmir because it considers the region Indian territory. Critics argue that infrastructure and border cooperation are not neutral. Roads, crossings and official surveys can create facts on the ground and make future negotiations harder. For Pakistan, the commission offers stronger trade links and closer cooperation with China. For Beijing, it protects a sensitive connection between Xinjiang and Pakistan and provides an official channel for security and infrastructure concerns. The arrangement serves both interests. Indias Legal Objection India rejected the commission after its activation. Its External Affairs Ministry said there is no legally recognised ChinaPakistan boundary concerning Indian territory and called the body without legal basis. New Delhi said Pakistan has no authority to make arrangements involving territory that India describes as under Pakistans illegal and forcible occupation. Indias objection has two parts. First, it rejects the 1963 transfer of Shaksgam Valley and says Pakistan could not negotiate away territory claimed by India. Second, it opposes CPEC and related infrastructure in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. India argues that the commission cannot change its sovereignty claims or legitimise control by China and Pakistan. China and Pakistan reject this interpretation. They treat their agreements as valid bilateral arrangements and describe the commission as normal border cooperation. Their position is that the body will manage practical matters, not settle Indias larger Kashmir claim. Why It Matters The commission does not formally redraw a map. Its immediate role is to maintain markers, conduct surveys, manage crossings and prevent incidents. But its political effect may be greater than its technical mandate. Regular meetings can make disputed control look normal, while infrastructure and trade can bind the territory more closely to China and Pakistan. That is why the commission has become a regional issue. Beijing and Islamabad see a useful instrument for stability and connectivity. India sees an attempt to institutionalise an arrangement made without its consent and involving territory it claims. The criticism is simple: technical administration cannot erase a political dispute or create lawful ownership.

PM Modi to interact with 'Seva Yatris' via video conference tomorrow

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with participants in the 'Seva Yatra' via video conference at 9 a.m. on Thursday, as 10 groups of Seva Yatris continue their motorcycle journey from Gujarat's Vadnagar to Varanasi. The Seva Yatra began on September 17 and is part of the wider 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' to highlight PM Modi's 25 years of public life. The participants are travelling through towns, districts, talukas and villages, with the programme focusing on taking community service and public engagement activities to the grassroots. The organisers said the journey is not limited to a motorcycle expedition, but is designed to bring together service, communication, youth participation, social welfare, cultural connect and community mobilisation at different locations along the route. 10 groups are undertaking the Vadnagar-to-Varanasi journey. BJP leaders said the two-way motorcycle yatras between Vadnagar and Varanasi involve young participants travelling across multiple states, districts and villages. During the journey, the Seva Yatris have engaged with local communities and participated in service-oriented activities. These have included cleanliness drives and interactions with beneficiaries and residents, as well as activities at schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and other community locations. The journey is scheduled to continue until October 7. The broader campaign was launched from Vadnagar on September 17 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, with the Vadnagar-to-Varanasi bike yatra being flagged off as part of the initiative. The interaction with the Prime Minister on Thursday will give the Seva Yatris a chance to share their experiences from the journey, which is intended to connect youth participation and community service across the locations covered by the teams. The wider motorcycle initiative includes journeys in both directions between Vadnagar, associated with PM Modi's early life, and Varanasi, his Lok Sabha constituency.

BJP appoints new state in-charges; Nitin Nabin congratulates appointees

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) BJP National President Nitin Nabin on Tuesday announced a fresh set of appointments of state in-charges and co-in-charges for various states and J&K. The appointments, detailed in an official press release from the partys central office, take effect immediately and cover organisational responsibilities across nearly all states and J&K. In a post on X, Nabin congratulated the newly appointed State Prabharis and Sah Prabharis. He said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, their efforts would strengthen the organisation and help realise the collective dream of Viksit Bharat 2047. Notable appointments include Smriti Irani as in-charge for both Chandigarh and Haryana, with Siddharth Shambhu as co-in-charge for Chandigarh and Bhola Singh for Haryana. Baijayant Jay Panda has been named state in-charge for Maharashtra, assisted by co-in-charges Amit Malviya, Sadanand Shet Tanavade and Kamaljeet Sahrawat. In Uttar Pradesh, Vinod Tawde will serve as state in-charge, with Jagadish Patel, Medha Kulkarni, Pradeep Verma and Anant Ojha as co-in-charges. Sunil Bansal has been assigned to both Telangana and West Bengal. For Telangana, Abhay Patil and Rekha Sharma are co-in-charges, while West Bengals co-in-charges are Lal Singh Arya, Rajendra Singh and Pinki Kushwaha. Other key assignments include Biplab Kumar Deb as in-charge for Madhya Pradesh, with Rekha Verma as co-in-charge; Ram Madhav for Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand; Harish Dwivedi for Bihar and Karnataka; and Satish Poonia for J&K and Punjab. Mangal Pandey has been named for Assam, while Arvind Bhadauria will head Andhra Pradesh with Vanathi Srinivasan as co-in-charge. Nabin has also appointed Ashish Usha Agrawal as convenor of the media department and Anil Baluni as co-ordinator of the communication department. The list further covers smaller states and J&K, including assignments for Andaman & Nicobar, Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Kerala, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Puducherry, Sikkim and Tripura. Several leaders hold dual or multiple responsibilities. The circular, issued by national office in-charge Tarun Chugh to all state presidents and organisational general secretaries, aims to strengthen the partys organisational network ahead of future electoral and organisational programmes.

Ex-IIT Delhi director backs Prof Doolla, suggests 5-year BTech programme

Delhi gangrape: Accused took turns; one assaulted, one kept watch

New Delhi: The three men accused of gangraping a 17-year-old girl at Astha Kunj Park in Delhi followed her for nearly a kilometre before closing in, after which they took turns sexually assaulting her at different locations, including benches, summoning each other to the spots over phone calls, police said on Wednesday, September 23. With 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 .

SC stays Allahabad HC order quashing students NSA detention

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Wednesday stayed the operation of the Allahabad High Court judgment, directing the recovery of Rs 5 lakh compensation from the salary of the Gautam Buddha Nagar District Magistrate and other officials for student activist Akriti Chaudhary's detention under the National Security Act (NSA). The apex court also stayed the High Court order, which quashed the student's detention under the NSA. A Bench of Justices Satish Chandra Sharma and NK Singh passed the interim order while hearing separate petitions filed by Gautam Buddha Nagar District Magistrate Medha Roopam and the Uttar Pradesh government challenging the judgment of the Allahabad High Court. The apex court granted permission to file the special leave petition (SLP) in the matter filed by Medha Roopam and issued notice to Akriti Chaudhary and other respondents. It also issued notice in the petition filed by the Uttar Pradesh government and other officials. Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, appearing for Chaudhary, accepted notice on her behalf. The respondents were granted two weeks' time to file their replies. After hearing senior advocates Mukul Rohatgi, Colin Gonsalves and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on the question of interim relief, the Supreme Court ordered that the operation of the impugned judgment, particularly paragraphs 27 to 33, will remain stayed until the matter is heard on merits. The Justice Sharma-led Bench posted both matters for further hearing on October 7, 2026. The Allahabad High Court, in its judgment passed on September 2, had allowed the habeas corpus petition filed by Chaudhary and held that her continued incarceration under the NSA was violative of her rights under Article 21. It directed that Chaudhary be set at liberty if she was not wanted in any other case and ordered payment of Rs 5 lakh compensation, to be recovered from the salary of the District Magistrate, Gautam Buddha Nagar, as well as other officials found responsible, ight down to the SHO of the Police Station who had prepared the initial report leading to her detention. The case arose from labour unrest in Gautam Buddha Nagar in April 2026, when workers protested over low wages, long working hours and inadequate pay. The Uttar Pradesh government had claimed that Chaudhary acted as an agent provocateur and that her activities and dissemination of information contributed to violence that erupted from April 13. However, Chaudhary had contended that the proceedings against her were an attempt to stifle her freedom of speech and expression and that there was no material warranting her detention under the stringent provisions of the NSA. The High Court observed that the alleged violence had commenced only after Chaudhary was taken into custody. It also examined WhatsApp conversations and stated that the state government had failed to identify a single message or video clip showing that she had incited violence or disclosed any conspiracy to provoke rioting, arson or destruction of property. The High Court further observed that the videos relied upon by the authorities showed people gathered peacefully and did not indicate that the crowd was armed or agitated. Any detention under the NSA is an exception. It is not a substitute to ensure that a person who may receive bail on account of merits of his case is still detained in custody under a concocted reasoning by the State, the High Court had said. It had also held that the grounds of detention were repetitive, speculative and are only opinion-based and lacked supporting material for the District Magistrate's conclusions. The High Court further observed that a notice issued under Section 130 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) appeared to have been prepared after Chaudhary's arrest, describing the procedure as ex post facto the arrest and nothing more than a sham. On the compensation issue, the High Court had criticised the conduct of the Gautam Buddha Nagar District Magistrate and observed that the officer was expected to carefully examine the material before invoking the NSA against a female student activist. It had said the conduct of the District Magistrate was worthy of derision and held that the officer had desired to set an example out of the petitioner and deter others from exercising their right to freedom of speech and expression in public spaces in support of the labourers. The High Court had further observed that the District Magistrate was guilty of violating his oath of allegiance and held that the case warranted compensation. It had also stressed that peaceful agitation is protected by the Constitution and compared the role of protests to a safety valve in a pressure cooker, helping release accumulated public grievances rather than allowing them to build up to a point where violence becomes inevitable.

Ktaka Assembly session extended to discuss drought

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 23 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday said the Assembly session has been extended by one day to facilitate a detailed discussion on the worsening drought situation in the state. Speaking to the media at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar said more than 200 taluks were facing severe drought conditions and that the situation had become serious. The severity of the drought in the state has increased. More than 200 taluks have been affected by severe drought, and the situation is serious. Therefore, the Assembly session has been extended by one day to discuss the drought, Shivakumar said. He added that legislators and public representatives wanted to discuss the drought situation in detail. Ministers and the Deputy Chief Ministers will officially respond to the questions and suggestions raised by legislators during the proceedings, he said. On the proposal to take an all-party delegation to Delhi, Shivakumar said all political party leaders had agreed to the move. It has been decided to take an all-party delegation to Delhi to discuss drought relief and assistance from the Centre. Leaders of all parties have agreed to this, he said. Meanwhile, Shivakumar said the Congress is confident it will win all four seats in the upcoming Karnataka Legislative Council elections. We are confident of winning all four seats in the Legislative Council elections. We selected good candidates one year in advance. The party and the government will work together, he said. Shivakumar spoke to the media near the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) office after a meeting with ministers and party legislators about the elections. He said elections had been announced for four Legislative Council seats and that, as the Assembly session was underway, he met with legislators on Wednesday to discuss the elections and provide guidance. All ministers and legislators will take responsibility and work for the elections, he said. On his proposed visit to Delhi, Shivakumar said he had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking an appointment. I have written to the Prime Minister seeking time for a meeting. Once the appointment is given, an all-party delegation will be taken to Delhi, he said.

Ram Mohan Naidu Welcomes Direct Delhi Flight To Bhogapuram

Akasa Airs decision to launch direct flights between New Delhi and Bhogapuram Airport from October 25: Reports

Kalkaji gang-rape fallout: DDA orders safety audit of all Delhi parks, restricts access after sunset

Subhash Chandra challenges NCLT Bench

New Delhi: Essel Group founder Subhash Chandra has approached the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) challenging the order of a five-member Bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) that stayed approval of his repayment plan and restrained him from alienating his properties. The appeal came up for hearing before a three-member Bench of 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 .

Delhi to get 600 more AEROs to handle SIR notices

Govt halts new challan system after talk with lawyers

Court orders report on plea against father-daughter duo over religious posts

Delhi Cabinet clears DURGA scheme

2 Hindu College teachers served show-cause notices over remarks against principal

Portions of mosque, houses in Shalimar Bagh razed by MCD

Midnight Demolition Drive Sparks Concerns

HC asks DU to explain victory celebrations during DUSU polls

Congress alleges discrimination in Delhis voter roll revision drive

DTC strike: HC asks why ESMA not invoked

Disposes of plea after counsel says 96% buses back in service

Opposition unity: SP-Congress rift in UP a close reminder of 2025 Bihar polls

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The latest exchange between leaders of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Congress ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly election is a reminder of opposition parties making the political contest against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secondary to the war of attrition within its own ranks. While the BJP has begun strengthening its organisation and preparing for the high-stakes electoral battle next year, sections among its principal rivals appear preoccupied with settling the question of who should be leading the Opposition. This is currently the contention between SP MP Iqra Hasan and Congress MP Imran Masood. Hasan reportedly said that only SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav is capable of defeating the BJP in Uttar Pradesh and suggested that the Congress could achieve little on its own. Masood is said to have responded by insisting that Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is the only Opposition leader with a national reach capable of unsettling the BJP. The signal thus emerging from Uttar Pradesh is that despite repeated assurances from the top leadership of both parties that the alliance remains intact, there is still no consensus on hierarchy, ownership and political primacy within. That should worry Opposition ranks at this hour. In the 2024 Lok Sabha election, the SP emerged as the principal beneficiary of the alliance, winning far more seats than the Congress and re-establishing itself as the state's dominant Opposition force. Akhilesh Yadav sought to broaden his party's social coalition with PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, and Alpsankhyak) and provided a coherent political message against the BJP. It is the principal reason that SP leaders see Akhilesh Yadav, not Rahul Gandhi, as the central face of any challenge in Uttar Pradesh. But for the Congress, despite the political setbacks, Rahul Gandhi's national campaign against the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) remains the focus, saying that national visibility and a broader anti-BJP platform that regional parties alone cannot provide. For a probable alliance platform, the trouble is that rather than discussing it internally, opinions are being aired publicly. Uttar Pradesh has seen alliances collapse under the weight of leadership ambiguity and seat-sharing disputes. Yet, the issue of the top face has emerged larger than whether voters believe the coalition's common purpose. Before the Bihar Assembly election last year, the Opposition Mahagathbandhan spent months wrestling with questions that should have been resolved early. There were disputes over seat-sharing between the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and the Congress, and among other allies, with disagreements over each party's bargaining power and persistent speculation over leadership arrangements. Reports at the time highlighted friction between the RJD and Congress as negotiations dragged on and both parties accused each other of being inflexible. It created the impression that alliance partners were more concerned with protecting their respective egos than presenting a united alternative. Even when compromises were eventually reached, public memory of the wranglings lingered. Back in Uttar Pradesh too, seat-sharing remains a sensitive issue. Congress leaders have pushed for an early settlement, while the SP appears less eager to finalise arrangements. Congress functionaries have spoken of fighting on equal terms and demanding greater space, while SP leaders have projected confidence in their independent strength. However, electoral logic strongly favours cooperation. The Congress is too weak in the state to seriously challenge the BJP on its own, while the SP knows that even a modest Congress vote share can matter in closely fought Assembly constituencies. Like Bihar, a public spat may not augur well where every spat on who is the eal Opposition face chips away at voter's confidence. The BJP will likely benefit from such utterances. While Opposition leaders debate credit, the ruling party's well-oiled electoral machine is preparing early, strengthening organisation and focusing on booth-level mobilisation. The Opposition needs to have learnt its lesson from Bihar where too much time and animosity now on leadership and seat-sharing may pose a similar risk. They would do well to remember that elections are rarely won by deciding who gets top billing in the Opposition poster, though these make good debate; rather, won by convincing voters that everyone on that poster is working towards the same goal.

National Nutrition Month 2026 Kicks Off with Focus on Dietary Diversity in New Delhi

The ninth National Nutrition Month 2026 was launched in New Delhi, emphasizing dietary diversity and adequate protein intake for better health. National Nutrition Month 2026 Kicks Off with Focus on Dietary Diversity in New Delhi

Astha Kunj gang rape: Trio trailed teens for a kilometre, coordinated assault over phone

Fashion designer Masaba Gupta joins UNFPA as India's new maternal health advocate

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India has named designer and entrepreneur Masaba Gupta as its India Advocate for Maternal Health at a moment when the country stands closer than ever to eliminating preventable maternal deaths. She joins UNFPA India for a year-long push on maternal health, as the country's maternal mortality ratio falls to its lowest ever, 87 per lakh live births in 2022-2024, according to a statement released by the world body on Wednesday. India has reduced its Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) by an impressive 73 per cent between 2000 and 2023, positioning the country to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of an MMR below 70 before 2030, it added. This remarkable progress, driven by more than two decades of government investment in institutional deliveries, skilled birth attendance and last-mile health worker networks under the National Health Mission, has saved the lives of countless women across the country, particularly those from marginalised communities, the statement observed. Even as the numbers tell the story, Masabas advocacy will begin with what happens after a woman gives birth, including the exhaustion, the stigma, the silence around recovery and mental health. Over a year-long engagement, she will bring together digital advocacy, thought leadership and on-ground engagement in service of a single goal: putting the physical and emotional realities of pregnancy, childbirth, and early motherhood at the centre of public conversation. Nobody warns you what motherhood actually costs a woman: physically, mentally, socially. The moment the baby arrives, all the attention shifts to the child, and the mother, whos just been through the most demanding thing a body can do, quietly disappears from the conversation. Shes the one who needs care the most at that moment, and shes the one nobodys checking on, the statement quoted Masaba Gupta. I wanted to work with UNFPA specifically because this isnt a marketing story for them. Its decades of unglamorous work: the health workers, the systems, the real reasons Indias maternal mortality numbers have actually come down. Im not interested in the soft-light version of this. If I can use whatever platform I have to say the things women usually only say to each other in private, thats the role I actually want, she added. The 37-year-old fashion designer, who has developed her own label, the iconic House of Masaba, is the daughter of film actress Neena Gupta and West Indies former cricketer Viv Richards. A decline in maternal mortality reflects what is possible when sustained public investment, strong health systems and committed health workers come together, said Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA Representative India. India has made extraordinary progress, but reaching zero preventable maternal deaths means going further: ensuring that every woman can access quality care, make informed choices and receive the support she needs before, during, and after childbirth. Masaba brings a powerful ability to make these conversations visible, relatable, and impossible to ignore. Her advocacy can help ensure that the progress India has made translates into an even deeper commitment to every womans right to survive, recover, and thrive, added Wojnar. Masaba Gupta joins a growing consortium of celebrated voices committed to UNFPA India's cause, alongside Kriti Sanon, National Ambassador for Gender Equality and Soha Ali Khan, Advocate for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights.

Delhi HC rejects CBI plea against Chitra Ramkrishna's bail in NSE case

The Delhi High Court has dismissed the CBI's challenge to a December 2022 order granting former NSE chief Chitra Ramkrishna bail in the alleged employee phone interception case

MoD inks 811 crore contract for 160 SAT-SAAW glide bombs for IAF

According to the Ministry of Defence, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh was present when the contract was signed in New Delhi under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category

One Indian national killed in attack on commercial vessel off Oman coast, 19 rescued; India says targeting of seafarers must end

New Delhi [India], September 23 : An Indian national lost his life while 19 other Indian seafarers were rescued after their commercial vessel, MV Cape Dao, came under attack off the east coast of Oman. India condemned the attack on the vessel and said continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao earlier today off the east coast of Oman. Of the 20 Indian seafarers on board, 19 have been rescued, while 1 Indian national tragically lost his life. We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. MEA said Indias embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and proactively coordinating with the Omani authorities for early repatriation of the Indian seafarers. The government thanked the Omani authorities for their support. The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and enable early return of peace to the region, MEA statement said. It said the targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region must be restored at the earliest. Embassy of India in Oman said it is in touch with Omani authorities. We are closely monitoring the attack on MV Cape Dao today while transiting toward India, and are in close coordination with Omani authorities regarding the safety of all crew on board, including 19 Indian nationals, the Embassy said in a post on X. We are deeply saddened by the loss of one Indian national in this attack. Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The Mission is coordinating with the RPSL and is in touch with the family of the deceased, it added. India has consistently reiterated the call for free and safe navigation in international waters and the unhindered flow of commerce through international waterways. (ANI)

One Indian seafarer killed, 19 rescued in attack on vessel off Oman coast

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) One Indian seafarer was killed and 19 others rescued after an attack on the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao off the east coast of Oman, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday, condemning the attack. We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel MV Cape Dao earlier today off the east coast of Oman. Of the 20 Indian seafarers on board, 19 have been rescued, while 1 Indian national tragically lost his life. We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Omani authorities for the early repatriation of the Indian seafarers. We thank the Omani authorities for their support, the MEA said in a statement. The Ministry said the continuing attacks on commercial shipping in the region were deeply worrisome. We reiterate our call for dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions and enable the early return of peace to the region. The targeting of commercial shipping, seafarers and civilian infrastructure in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region must be restored at the earliest, the statement added. The Indian Embassy in Muscat said the vessel was attacked while transiting towards India and that it was coordinating with Omani authorities on the safety of all crew on board. We are closely monitoring the attack on MV Cape Dao today while transiting toward India, and are in close coordination with Omani authorities regarding the safety of all crew on board, including 19 Indian nationals. We are deeply saddened by the loss of one Indian national in this attack. The Mission extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. The Mission is coordinating with the RPSL and is in touch with the family of the deceased, the Embassy said in a post on X. On September 13, the MEA had condemned the attack on the commercial vessel MT El Gaia off the coast of Oman, which was carrying 14 Indian nationals, of whom 13 were rescued, and one went missing. Regarding the missing seafarer, this attack happened off the coast of Oman. It was a Panama flagship carrying 14 Indian nationals, or seafarers, of whom 13 have been rescued, and we deeply thank the Omani authorities for rescuing our nationals. One Indian national is missing; the seafarer was on board. Search and rescue operations continue with the help of the Omani authorities, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had said.

Kabul-bound passenger held after sandalwood found in his hand baggage

Right To Vote Is Being Stolen: CJP Targets Election Commission, Announces Delhi Press Conference

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) said the right to vote must be saved before other issues facing the country can be addressed later. CJP on Wednesday said that they will first address election commission issue before school infrastructure and tribal education.

Delhi LG orders safety audit of all city parks with police patrolling within a week

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Turkey Repays India's Fuel Debt By Crossing Kashmir Red Line At UNGA, Parrots Pakistan's Script

Turkey bought record diesel volumes from India in August as Russian supplies weakened and regional routes came under pressure. Kpler data cited by Reuters put the flow above 120,000 barrels per day, though another estimate was lower. Then Recep Tayyip Erdogan raised Kashmir at the UN General Assembly again publicly, urging dialogue under the UN Charter and relevant resolutions. India rejects that framing and any external intervention on Jammu and Kashmir. The present diesel flow is commercial trade, not humanitarian aid. But the contrast is politically sharp: Turkey draws on Indian refiners while maintaining deep defence and diplomatic ties with Pakistan. This video examines Ankaras fuel squeeze, Indias export opportunity, Erdogans Kashmir line and the uncomfortable question for New Delhi: when does a profitable fuel sale begin to ease pressure on a country acting against Indias strategic interests? It also revisits Indias Operation Dost help after Turkeys dire 2023 earthquake.

Police detain 191 foreign nationals in major crackdown

'They raped her on park benches, called their friends'

Police investigating the gangrape of a 17-year-old girl at Astha Kunj Park in New Delhi have revealed that the three accused followed the victim for nearly a kilometre before assaulting her at multiple secluded locations, coordinating their actions via phone calls. One accused, an advocate, was previously removed from a gym due to complaints about his behaviour. The probe also suggests the accused frequented the park and may have been involved in similar incidents, highlighting concerns about park security and lighting.

Eight United Democratic Party legislators join Bharatiya Janata Party in New Delhi

The eight legislators are Lahkmen Rymbui (Amlarem), former minister Kyrmen Shylla (Khliehriat), Olan Singh Suin (Mawsynram), Mathew Beyondstar Kurbah (Mawphlang), Mayralborn Syiem (Nongpoh), Pius Marwein (Ranikor), Synshar Thabah (Sohiong) and Balajied Synrem (Shella).

Indian Railways completes new line to bolster Raipur-Bhilai link

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Indian Railways has achieved a major milestone in the Dallirajhara-Rowghat New Rail Line Project in Chhattisgarh with the completion of the final Taroki-Rowghat section of the project, which is a single- electrified broad-gauge line, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday. The CRS (Commission of Railway Safety) inspection and speed trial, an important process towards the commissioning of the new railway line, was carried out on Tuesday. During the inspection, the railway line, bridges and culverts, electrification, signalling and other safety and technical arrangements were examined. The operational capacity and safety standards of the rail section were also tested in accordance with prescribed procedure, the statement said. The Taroki-Rowghat section, covering 17.5 km, is part of the 95 km long Dallirajhara-Rowghat New Line Project and is located at a remote area of south Chhattisgarh. At present, railway services are available to passengers from Dallirajhara to Taroki. Train operations in the Taroki-Rowghat section will strengthen rail connectivity in the surrounding areas and provide better and convenient transportation options to the citizens of the region. The railway line will facilitate the transportation of iron ore to Bhilai Steel Plant, which will give a boost to the steel industry in the country. The railway line will also help in the transportation of agricultural products and local commercial goods and play an important role in connecting rural and remote areas with the wider railway network. It will significantly enhance connectivity of the region to the capital Raipur as well as to Bhilai, which is an educational hub of the state. Hence, improved rail connectivity will facilitate citizens access to opportunities related to education, health, employment and trade, the statement said. Expansion of rail transport will also promote tourism, investment and other economic activities in the region. This will boost business activities and contribute to the economic and social development of the region. The inspection and speed trial of the Taroki-Rowghat section mark important progress towards the commissioning of the Dallirajhara-Rowghat New Railway Line Project under the Raipur Division of the South East Central Railway in Chhattisgarh, the statement added.

FSSAI cracks down on Amazon, Swiggy, BigBasket, Zepto, Flipkart

New Delhi: Food regulator FSSAI on Wednesday, September 23, said it has initiated penal action against e-commerce platforms Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket, Flipkart India and Zepto for various non-compliances, including misleading claims and sale of prohibited products. In a social media post, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) informed that it has 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 .

Amrita Khanna and Gursi Singh take Indian childhood memories to London Fashion Week with Bata chappal heels

Highlights: Amrita Khanna and Gursi Singh make their LFW debut Bata chappals become sculptural heels Adarsh Balak inspires eveningwear Childhood schoolbook drawings become fashion The designers revisit pre-digital India Fifteen minutes after their London Fashion Week debut, Amrita Khanna and Gursi Singh were backstage at Lindley Hall in Victoria, still trying to process what had just happened. The Delhi-based designers and real-life partners had presented their Spring/Summer 2027 collection, India: IYKYK , to a room filled with international press, buyers, models and friends of the label. Singh was dressed in a black knit turtleneck and jeans. Khanna wore a voluminous shirt with her signature silver chain-link jewelry. Around them, models were changing and the backstage crew was dismantling the show equipment. While talking to Nodmag, Singh joked I think I need a drink. Yes, me too, Khanna replied. I dont think it has hit me yet. This all just feels too surreal and overwhelming. The collection they had just presented was deeply personal. Instead of looking at India through the familiar lens of elaborate occasionwear, the designers went back to the everyday visual memories of the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. See on Instagram Looking back at an India before the internet For Khanna and Singh, the starting point was a world where images were made by hand. Before digital printing became commonplace, shop signs, billboards, and photo studio backdrops were often painted manually. Those details became the foundation for their London collection. There is so much talk about the handmade and craft, Singh said. With this collection, we wanted to explore the world that existed before digital printing: when signs, billboards, and photo studio backdrops were all painted by hand. Khanna found another connection to childhood. We all have that one memory of being forced to do it as kids, she said. That memory also gave the designers a way to connect India's handmade traditions with a much more contemporary conversation around technology and artificial intelligence. As creative industries increasingly debate what happens when machines can generate images and ideas in seconds, Khanna and Singh looked back at a time when making something by hand was simply part of everyday life. The Bata chappal becomes a fashion statement One of their most recognizable references came from something far less glamorous: the Bata chappal. The designers transformed the ubiquitous Indian footwear into kitten heels, giving an everyday object a completely different silhouette. A black band around the ankle added another familiar Indian detail, referencing the practice of using black to ward off the evil eye. The idea captures how Khanna and Singh approached the entire collection. They were not searching for exotic references or grand symbols of India. They were looking at things people had grown up seeing. The result was fashion that could carry a private memory into an international setting. From schoolbooks to the runway The designers also reached into childhood classrooms. An illustration of a human ear, taken from a primary school textbook, became a major motif on a blouse. A graphic of lips appeared on a skirt. Then came the Adarsh Balak imagery. The Seventies-era posters and comic charts depicting the expectations of an ideal boy from a middle-class Indian household became graphics for deconstructed eveningwear, styled with an obi belt. The references were specific enough to feel instantly familiar to an Indian audience while appearing unexpected to viewers encountering them for the first time. A memory of their mothers One of the collection's opening looks carried an even more intimate reference. A model walked out in a silk bra and sheer petticoat decorated with floral embroidery, her hair styled into a voluminous 1960s bouffant. Singh described it as one of his favorite looks because it reminded him of seeing their mothers in the moment before they put on their saris. That memory turned the look into something more than a retro reference. It captured a private domestic moment and placed it on an international runway. Their India was also playful Khanna and Singh's approach was not limited to nostalgia. Menswear included sleeveless vests with embroidered pants, white jackets with block-print panels, and chintz shorts. Denim became a canvas for embroidery and graphic treatments. One of the most unexpected moments featured two male models in matching black muscle tees and embroidered gray denim, walking with their pinkies locked. The show notes imagined them as two men crossing a market while discussing the price of onions. It was ordinary, slightly funny, and unmistakably grounded in everyday Indian life. Taking Indian visual culture beyond occasionwear Khanna and Singh's London debut arrives during a period when Indian designers are increasingly presenting work internationally without relying solely on traditional occasion wear. Their collection instead asked what happens when Indian fashion draws from the things people see every day: footwear, textbooks, painted advertisements, family photographs, and memories of childhood. That is what made India: IYKYK feel personal. For Khanna and Singh, the London runway was not simply a place to introduce a new collection. It became a way to take pieces of the India they remember, sometimes glamorous, sometimes ordinary, and often deeply specific, and let an international audience see them differently.

Southwest Monsoon Bids Premature Farewell to Delhi as IMD Declares Complete Withdrawal

SC to hear Mamata Banerjees plea against EC freezing Trinamool name, election symbol tomorrow

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The Supreme Court is slated to hear on Thursday Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjees plea challenging the Election Commission of Indias (ECI) decision to freeze the partys name and its reserved election symbol amid an ongoing dispute between rival factions. As per the Cause List published on the website of the apex court, a Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana will hear the matter on September 24. The case is listed at serial number 26 before the CJI-led Bench as a fresh civil case for admission. Mamata Banerjee has filed the plea against the ECIs interim decision to freeze the name All India Trinamool Congress and its reserved Flowers and Grass election symbol amid the dispute between rival factions of the party. The petition names the Election Commission of India, its Secretary and rebel leader Ritabrata Banerjee as respondents. On Monday, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Mamata Banerjee, had sought urgent listing of the plea before CJI Surya Kant. They (ECI) issue a by-poll notification and in the middle of the notification, they freeze the symbol. We want urgent listing, he submitted. At this, the CJI observed that the rival side would also have submissions to make and assured that the matter would be considered for listing. Both sides will have something to say. When the matter is listed, then argue. We will try to list, the CJI said. The plea was filed after the poll panel passed an interim order barring both factions from using the partys existing name and election symbol, observing that two rival groups were claiming to be the recognised political party. The ECI had said that the dispute required a substantive determination under Paragraph 15 of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, and directed both groups to submit alternative names and symbols for the upcoming by-elections. The poll panel subsequently allotted the Mamata Banerjee-led faction the name Mamata All India Trinamool Congress and the football player symbol, while the rival faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee was allotted the name Democratic Trinamool Congress and the envelope symbol. The interim arrangement applies to the October 6 by-elections in West Bengal for the Nandigram and Rejinagar Assembly constituencies. The Mamata Banerjee-led faction has challenged the freezing of the partys established name and symbol pending a final determination of the dispute, maintaining that it does not accept the ECIs interim order. The rival camp led by expelled legislator Ritabrata Banerjee has claimed control over the partys organisational and legislative structures. The dispute over the partys organisational control had also spilled over into Parliament, where 20 rebel TMC Lok Sabha MPs had broken away and aligned themselves with the Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI), claiming recognition as a separate parliamentary group. The Mamata Banerjee-led faction had challenged the delay by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla in deciding disqualification petitions against the 20 rebel MPs under the anti-defection law. It has maintained that the MPs were elected on its symbol and that their subsequent decision to join another political formation attracts the provisions of the anti-defection law. However, the rebel faction has claimed the support of more than two-thirds of the Trinamool's Lok Sabha MPs and sought recognition as a separate parliamentary group. The organisational dispute subsequently reached the ECI, with both sides staking claim to the party name and symbol. The poll panels interim order stated that the temporary arrangement was intended to place the rival groups on an even footing and protect their respective rights and interests until a final determination of the dispute.

Festive crackdown: 22 of 30 khoya samples from Mori Gate fail safety tests

First day of PM Modi-chaired Chintan Shivir concludes with ministers presentations

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The first day of the Union Cabinet's Chintan Shivir, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Seva Teerth, concluded on Wednesday with presentations made by several ministries on their respective initiatives and future plans, focusing on Viksit Bharat@2047, according to sources. The meeting will resume on Thursday morning for a further brainstorming session. The focused session is expected to review the governments work, discuss the road ahead, and identify key priorities for the next phase of governance. Unlike some earlier rounds of consultations involving a wider group of ministers, the latest session brings together only Cabinet ministers, making it a focused deliberation at the highest level of the Union government. The timing of the two-day meeting is significant. It follows a series of separate interactions Prime Minister Modi held with Ministers of State and Ministers of State with Independent Charge at his office. The sequence of meetings points to a structured exercise involving different levels of the Council of Ministers, with Cabinet ministers now making their own dedicated deliberations. According to government sources, the Chintan Shivir will broadly focus on taking stock of work already underway, planning the governments next steps and identifying further reforms and priorities linked to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The discussions are expected to cover the pace of implementation of government policies and schemes, delivery of public services, coordination between ministries, and ways to improve governance and ensure that government initiatives translate into results on the ground. The meeting is also taking place amid speculation in political circles about a possible Cabinet reshuffle. However, there has been no official confirmation from the government that the Chintan Shivir is linked to, or will result in, any reshuffle. The two-day deliberations provide Cabinet ministers an opportunity to assess progress across ministries, identify areas requiring greater coordination and discuss policy priorities that could shape the governments work in the coming period. The session at Seva Teerth also comes as the new government complex takes on a larger role in the functioning of the Prime Ministers Office and the Union government. The Chintan Shivir is expected to serve as an important platform for reviewing governance and implementation while charting the next set of priorities towards the governments long-term Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.

Delhi lawyers suspend protest after government delays motor vehicle rules amendment

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Delhi HC notice on PIL challenging 3-year Bar practice for Assistant Public Prosecutor posts

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notice on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the mandatory requirement of three years practice at the bar for direct recruitment to the post of Assistant Public Prosecutor (APP) in Delhi. A bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia sought responses from the Union government, the Delhi government, and the Directorate of Prosecution on the plea filed by Bhumika Trust through advocate Jayant Singh Raghav. The petition challenges the three-year Bar experience condition prescribed under the Directorate of Prosecution, Government of NCT of Delhi, Assistant Public Prosecutor Recruitment Rules, 2025, notified on January 19, 2026. The petitioner contends that the requirement excludes otherwise qualified law graduates and newly enrolled advocates from even participating in the recruitment process solely because they have not completed three years of practice at the Bar. The petition argues that while professional competence and preparedness are legitimate objectives for recruitment to prosecutorial posts, three years of prior Bar practice cannot necessarily be treated as the only means of achieving those objectives. It contends that less exclusionary mechanisms, including structured induction training, probation, practical attachments and supervised prosecutorial training, could be considered to ensure professional preparedness. The plea states that an eligibility criterion which completely excludes an otherwise professionally qualified class from even participating in a competitive selection process must withstand scrutiny under the constitutional guarantees of equality and equality of opportunity in public employment. According to the plea, the Supreme Court, in its judgment in Ayush Yardi v. State of Madhya Pradesh, held that additional requirements relating to three years practice at the Bar or securing the prescribed marks in the first attempt could not operate against candidates with disabilities and struck down the requirements qua PwD candidates. The petition also refers to the Supreme Court's subsequent judgment in Bhumika Trust v. Union of India, which modified its earlier directions prescribing three years' practice for recruitment to the Civil Judge (Junior Division) cadre. The petitioner has submitted that the Supreme Court's modified framework demonstrates that professional preparedness for legal and judicial public office can also be achieved through structured institutional training and practical exposure, rather than exclusively through a fixed period of prior Bar practice. The petitioner has also cited recruitment practices in other states, referring to recruitment for Assistant District Attorney posts in Haryana and Assistant Prosecution Officer posts in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, where three years prior practice at the Bar was not prescribed as an essential eligibility condition. The petition contends that these recruitment models demonstrate the existence of alternative approaches to entry-level prosecutorial recruitment. The plea has also raised concerns regarding candidates with disabilities, particularly in view of the eight vacancies reserved for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities in the ongoing Delhi APP recruitment. It submits that reservation by itself may not ensure substantive equality if an antecedent eligibility condition unjustifiably excludes otherwise qualified candidates from entering the zone of consideration. The petitioner has sought a declaration that the three-year practice requirement for direct recruitment to the post of Assistant Public Prosecutor is unconstitutional and arbitrary. It has also sought interim protection in relation to the ongoing recruitment, including a direction to provisionally permit otherwise educationally qualified candidates to submit applications and participate in the selection process, subject to the final outcome of the PIL.

PM SVANidhi scheme transforms lives of street vendors and small traders; beneficiaries thank govt

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The Prime Minister Street Vendors AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme, launched in June 2020 as a first-of-its-kind micro-credit initiative for empowering street vendors, has brought notable change in the lives of small traders and street vendors, with beneficiaries from across the country - from J&K to Haryana to Madhya Pradesh, thanking the Central government for the benefits. A couple of street vendors from Tral in J&Ks Pulwama district told IANS that the financial assistance proved immensely beneficial for them and their small businesses. A vendor stated that the assistance greatly helped them in sustaining their livelihood and also urged the Kashmir youth to avail themselves of the loan facility provided by the government to either start or strengthen their own small businesses. In Madhya Pradeshs Neemuch, the PM SVANidhi scheme is transforming the fortunes of small traders. Pushcart operators and small shopkeepers, who previously struggled with a shortage of funds, are now obtaining loans without any hassle. The scheme has become a strong vehicle for self-reliance, particularly for women. Neemuch CMO (Chief Municipal Officer) Durga Bamaniya told newsmen, The PM SVANidhi scheme was implemented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to empower street vendors and small retail traders financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that women vendors benefited significantly from the scheme. A beneficiary named Priyanka Jain said, I live in Neemuch. I received a loan of Rs 10,000 from the municipality. With that loan, I procured raw materials for incense sticks and started a new business. It has been very beneficial for me. As a woman, I would like to say that what the Prime Minister is doing for women is excellent; he has empowered women from middle-class and impoverished backgrounds. Another beneficiary, Rekha Prajapati, shared, I received a loan of Rs 10,000 under the PM SVANidhi scheme. We manufacture and sell earthenware. This scheme has greatly benefited me and many other women like me. We used to stay at home, but now we have the opportunity to step out and work. Beneficiary Gopal Krishna Chhabra said, I repaid the Rs 10,000 loan on time. Earlier, I was operating on a small scale, but receiving the loan has been beneficial; I have expanded my market reach. I deal in whole spices, selling packets ranging from 10 grams to 100 grams. In Haryanas Panipat, the PM SVANidhi has given small businesses a chance to stand on their own feet. The story of Govind, a vegetable vendor, serves as a prime example. Govind, who used to work as a labourer before the lockdown, started selling vegetables afterwards. Under the scheme, he received loans of Rs 10,000, then Rs 20,000, and subsequently Rs 50,000. He shared that he operates his cart daily from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. After covering all expenses, he manages to save between Rs 10,000 and Rs 15,000 a month. He uses these savings to pay the loan instalment of Rs 3,100 and cover his family's living expenses. His family consists of eight members, including two children, two daughters-in-law, and grandchildren. Govind further shared that in recognition of his work, he was invited to Delhi to meet the Prime Minister on Republic Day. Similarly, Sunita established a livelihood through the scheme. She initially started a tea cart, but it did not succeed. She then took another loan to set up a chowmein cart. She availed loans of Rs 10,000, then Rs 20,000, and finally Rs 50,000 in 2024, and she has been repaying all instalments on time. Expressing gratitude to PM Modi, Sunita noted that she used to do odd jobs previously and the cart now covers the household expenses as well as her children's needs.

Doctors correct combination of heart, diaphragm congenital defects in infant

BJP challenges Oppns vote chori claim; cites Trinamool wins in seats with highest deletions

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) BJP national spokesperson and MP Sambit Patra on Wednesday launched a strong defence of the Election Commission of India (ECI), saying internal deliberations among Election Commissioners should not be portrayed as a sign of discord but as part of a functioning democratic institution. Reacting to the controversy surrounding the Election Commission and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Patra questioned the Opposition's repeated allegations against the poll panel and said the final authority in a democracy rests with the people. Patras press conference followed The Indian Express report of September 23 that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised 14 formal objections over 10 months to the Commission's decisions, including issues linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. At a press conference at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Patra said the Election Commissioners had held 14 rounds of official deliberations before reaching consensus on undertaking the SIR exercise. He questioned why the Opposition was objecting to discussions within the Commission, arguing that debate and consultation among constitutional functionaries signalled a vibrant democracy. Patra said the BJP had no intention of speaking on behalf of the Election Commission as the poll panel had already put out its own response. However, he sought to place the Opposition's allegations in what he described as a broader political context. He alleged that parties that had repeatedly lost elections were now targeting constitutional institutions after failing to secure electoral mandates. Referring particularly to the Congress, Patra alleged that attempts to undermine the Election Commission were part of a larger effort to discredit institutions when electoral outcomes did not favour the Opposition. On allegations of vote chori, Patra cited figures from West Bengal and said the Opposition's narrative did not correspond with the electoral results. He said that among the 20 constituencies witnessing the highest number of deleted names from electoral rolls, the Trinamool Congress won 13 while the BJP won six. If deletion of names from electoral rolls benefits the BJP, then how does the Opposition explain the TMC winning the majority of these constituencies? Patra asked, arguing that the electoral data needed to be examined before making sweeping allegations. He also pointed to the BJP-NDA's electoral record between 2014 and 2024, saying the alliance had won some elections and lost others, formed governments in some states and lost power in others. He said this record raised questions over the Opposition's claim that the Election Commission was being managed to favour the BJP. Patra also questioned the Congress over controversies surrounding the appointment of Election Commissioners during its tenure. Referring to former Chief Election Commissioner N. Gopalaswami's concerns about the appointment of Navin Chawla and allegations of his political proximity to the Congress, Patra asked the party to explain its position. He also referred to newspaper headlines from that period suggesting that Sonia Gandhi had appointed the Chief Election Commissioner and questioned what constitutional position she held at the time that empowered her to make such an appointment. Defending the current appointment process, Patra said transparency had been strengthened by including the Leader of the Opposition in the mechanism for appointing Election Commissioners. He urged political parties to respect the process upheld by the Supreme Court and the mandate voters delivered. Patra further questioned the Opposition's position on the Election Commission, SIR and EVMs, asking what electoral institutions it trusted if it had lost faith in all three. He said that from 2014 onwards, the BJP had faced both victories and defeats in different elections, adding that governments had changed through the electoral process. The ultimate verdict in a democracy, he said, comes from the people through their votes.

Delhi-bound IndiGo plane faces tech issue, returns to London

New Delhi: A Delhi-bound IndiGo Dreamliner aircraft returned to London Heathrow early Wednesday, September 23, due to a technical issue, according to a source. The Boeing 787-9 aircraft, operating flight 6E4 from London Heathrow to Delhi, was airborne for around an hour before turning back, as per the information available on the flight tracking website 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 .

FSSAI cracks down on key e-commerce platforms over non-compliances

FSSAI cracks down on key e-commerce platforms over non-compliances New Delhi: The FSSAI on Wednesday said it has begun penal action against e-commerce platforms like Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket, Amazon, Flipkart India and Zepto for various non-compliances. The non-compliances include misleading claims and sale of prohibited products. In a social media post on Instagram, the food [] The post FSSAI cracks down on key e-commerce platforms over non-compliances appeared first on Mangalorean.com .

LSR College Security Beefed Up By Delhi Police

Senior Delhi Police officers visited Lady Shri Ram College for Women to address student safety concerns following an alleged gangrape incident near Aastha Kunj Park. Police assured increased presence, improved infrastructure, and deployed personnel, while the college resumed offline classes after a temporary shift online.

Special Voter Registration Camps Held Across Delhi

Special voter registration camps were organized in New Delhi to facilitate citizen participation in the electoral process and address voter concerns. Special Voter Registration Camps Held Across Delhi

Delhi Police Successfully Rescues Missing Three-Year-Old Girl Within 24 Hours

Delhi Police swiftly located a missing three-year-old girl, reuniting her with her parents just 24 hours after her disappearance. Delhi Police Successfully Rescues Missing Three-Year-Old Girl Within 24 Hours

Delhi HC rejects CBI plea against bail to ex-NSE chief Chitra Ramkrishna in phone tapping case

India Calls Out Pakistan Over IWT Drama At The UN; Islamabad Finds Zero Support On Indus Waters

Pakistan has carried the Indus Waters Treaty fight to the United Nations, circulating a letter after the Hague-based Court of Arbitration ruled that the treaty remains in force. But India rejects that court as illegally constituted and says its pronouncements have no legal effect. New Delhi has also accused Islamabad of malicious propaganda, misrepresentation and falsehoods. The key point is this: Pakistan got a ruling, but it has not secured collective UN action or a public coalition behind its letter. No UNGA resolution. No Security Council move. No demonstrated diplomatic pressure that has changed Indias policy. Islamabad wants the water dispute separated from terrorism. India refuses. It says the treaty was put in abeyance after the Pahalgam attack and will remain so until Pakistan credibly ends support for cross-border terrorism. This report explains the Hague ruling, Indias jurisdiction challenge, Pakistans UN push, and why trustnot water alonenow defines the dispute.

KfW Germany Team Visits Natural Farming Fields

The team comprised KfW Germany sector economist Iris Harder and KfW New Delhi senior specialist Sangeetha Agarwal: Reports

Delhi govt puts new challan system rollout on hold post advocates' concerns

Delhi Govt put on hold the implementation of its new challan system notification issued on Sept 14, following objections raised by the Coordination Committee of Advocates

Only 1 lakh Delhi voters seek inclusion after 47 lakh draft deletions; Sept 30 deadline may be extended

Abu Azmi Criticizes Rising Atmosphere of Hatred Against Muslims in Delhi

Abu Azmi condemns the rising hostility towards Muslims in Delhi, calling for equal enforcement of laws and better governance in Uttar Pradesh. Abu Azmi Criticizes Rising Atmosphere of Hatred Against Muslims in Delhi

Delhi court grants default bail to six Ukrainian nationals in NIA terror case

The relief comes days after an American national got default bail in the Myanmar conspiracy probe as the agency failed to file a charge sheet within the 180-day period

Six Ukrainians Granted Bail In NIA Drone Case

A Delhi court has granted default bail to six Ukrainian nationals involved in an NIA case concerning a drone-warfare training camp linked to ethnic armed groups in Myanmar. The court also discharged them from Immigration and Foreigners Act offences after fines were paid, while the UAPA probe continues.

Interview with Phoolan director Richie Mehta and actor Sneha Kumari | The Hindu | TIFF 2026

Phoolan | Director Richie Mehta, actor Sneha Kumari, and Shilangi Mukherji, Director & Head, Amazon Prime Video SVOD business, India, in conversation with Meenakshi Shedde at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2026 International Emmy-winning filmmaker Richie Mehta, known for the popular series Delhi Crime and Poacher, returns with Phoolan, a Hindi-language historical crime drama that premiered in the Special Presentations programme at the 51st TIFF. Rather than a conventional biopic, the film focuses on a tense 48-hour siege in the life of Phoolan Devi, the dacoit-turned-politician. Based on Devis autobiography, I, Phoolan: The Autobiography of Indias Bandit Queen, it explores the circumstances that shaped her transformation from an impoverished teenager into a figure of resistance and notoriety. Sneha Kumari makes her screen debut as Phoolan. The film will stream on Amazon Prime Video. Meenakshi Shedde, is the senior programme advisor, South Asia, at TIFF.

Supreme Court launches monthly lecture series on Constitution as charter of opportunity

The Supreme Court, in association with the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), has launched a monthly lecture and dialogue series titled The Constitution as a Charter of Opportunity: Democracy, Enterprise and Inclusive Nation-Building,for which the first lecture was delivered by by Prof Dr Ranbir Singh, NLU, Delhi In his address, Prof. Singh proposed viewing the [] The post Supreme Court launches monthly lecture series on Constitution as charter of opportunity appeared first on India Legal .

Delhi Food Authority Destroys 4,100 kg Unsafe Paneer, Khoya Amid Festive Season

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has directed officials to take action against businesses where laboratory tests establish food safety violations.

ECI must not only be independent but also be seen to act independently: Justice Dipankar Datta

New Delhi, Sep 23 (PTI) If free and fair elections are to be ensured, it is axiomatic that the Election Commission of India (ECI) must not only be an independent body but also be seen to act independently, Supreme Court judge Justice Dipankar Datta said on Wednesday. Justice Datta headed a bench also comprising Justice Satish Chandra Sharma which gave split opinions on whether a batch of pleas challenging the validity of a 2023 law that excludes the CJI from the panel for selecting the chief election commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners (ECs) should be referred to a larger Constitution

Delhi Rape Horror: LSR Students Protest, Demand Safety Measures

Students of Delhi's Lady Shri Ram College staged a protest demanding stronger safety measures after the alleged rape of a 17-year-old girl at a park near the campus. LSR had shifted classes online after an accused in the Kalkaji gang-rape case was injured in a police encounter near the college's back gate. The students' union said women's safety cannot be the responsibility of women alone.

Pakistan claiming terror elimination rings hollow with credible inputs proving otherwise

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) First, it was Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif admitting that the country's governments have been supporting terrorists for 30 years, which incidentally came days after the Pahalgam massacre in Jammu and Kashmir where 26 innocent civilians were brutally killed on April 22, 2025. Now, it is Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself declaring at the United Nations that his country harboured terrorists, but they were now under control through what he implied were targeted encounters. Statements assuring Pakistan has turned over a new leaf ring hollow, with credible reports and historical evidence of elements within its army providing training, safe havens, and logistical support to outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, among others. Barely four months ago, photographs surfaced showing senior political leaders, including the Prime Ministers Advisor on Political Affairs and Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination, Senator Rana Sanaullah Khan, interacting with globally designated terrorist Hafiz Talha Saeed. Talha Saeed is the son of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed. In the same interview where he admitted supporting terrorists, Khwaja Asif had claimed that Lashkar is a name from the past. It does not exist, in response to the LeT offshoot, Resistance Front, claiming responsibility for the Pahalgam attack. Also, it is a well-chronicled fact that the garrison town of Rawalpindi holds sway over the civilian government ruling from Islamabad. And that power has been illustrated in recent times by its army chief Syed Asim Munir, who leads from the front in international affairs and various national matters, which otherwise come under the ambit of the government. It may not be possible for Prime Minister Sharif to speak for the powerful general, whom he has further empowered by tweaking the countrys laws in recent times. That terror modules exist is beyond denial. The most glaring example is the LeT, which masterminded the 2008 Mumbai attacks that killed 166 people, including foreign nationals. Its founder, Hafiz Saeed, is a UN-designated terrorist, but enjoys freedom within Pakistan, appearing at public rallies and continuing to influence extremist networks. Recent reports indicate that Pakistans spy agency ISI has placed him under enhanced security due to multiple assassination attempts and is reportedly kept in a fortified safe house in Lahore. ISI is a military agency, as asserted by Owen L. Sirrs, author of Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence Directorate: Covert Action and Internal Operations, saying it does what military leadership tells it to do. He wrote that the ISI is owned by the Army Chief (and) not the Prime Minister. Similarly, Masood Azhar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed which was behind the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the 2019 Pulwama suicide bombing remains sheltered in Pakistan, despite international pressure. The London bombings of 2005 were linked to extremists who had trained in Pakistan, while the attempted Times Square bombing in 2010 traced back to networks operating from its soil. The 2003 capture of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed in Rawalpindi tied the country indelibly to Al Qaedas network in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attack that destroyed New York Citys iconic twin towers of the World Trade Center complex, killings almost 3,000 people. Perhaps the most damning evidence of Pakistans complicity was the discovery of mastermind Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad in 2011, living close to Pakistans premier military academy. Even a lone wolf like Mir Aimal Kansi, who made a daring attack on operatives at the CIA headquarters, was apprehended by US agents from Pakistan. Meanwhile, the brutal killing of Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl in 2002 while investigating links between Pakistani extremists and international terror networks remains one of the most chilling examples of terrorists operating with impunity on its soil. Pearls captors were members of Harkat-ul-Mujahideen and militants tied to Al Qaeda, groups that have long enjoyed safe havens in Pakistan. The legacy continues, and it is impossible to dismiss the role of Pakistans state apparatus, particularly the army and intelligence services, in nurturing these groups as strategic assets. In June this year, leaders associated with terror outfits were spotted at a funeral of the brother of Pakistans former strike bowler Shoaib Akhtar. Photographs that went viral showed Saifullah Kasuri, the LeT deputy chief and the mastermind of the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, Inam-ur-Rehman Kamboh, president of the Pakistan Markazi Muslim League (PMML), known as the political front of LeT, among others, present at the funeral. Against these backdrops, the political leaderships assurances of eliminating terrorism ring hollow. While Hafiz Sayeed and Masood Azhar remain at large, LeTs operations commander Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi and Hizbul Mujahideen commander Syed Salahuddin all operate freely, addressing rallies and mobilising support. Terrorism cannot be eliminated through rhetoric. Pakistans leaders may continue to admit past mistakes, but their credibility will remain in question as long as the terror heads roam free on its land.

Delhi government suspends new challan system following advocates

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Jamiat discusses protection of constitutional rights, religious freedom; seeks meeting with President

The Working Committee of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind met at the Mahmoodia Library at its central office in New Delhi on Wednesday to discuss issues concerning constitutional rights, religious freedom, and matters related to places of...

Sunrise Sectors to drive next global investment cycle: SBI Chairman

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) State Bank of India (SBI) Chairman CS Setty on Wednesday said the next phase of global investment is expected to be driven by sunrise sectors such as renewable energy, semiconductors, battery storage, green hydrogen, robotics and biotechnology, and stressed that India's banking and financial sector will play a crucial role in supporting this transformation. Speaking at the inauguration of the 13th SBI Banking & Economics Conclave, Setty said these emerging industries are likely to attract significant global capital in the coming years and create new opportunities for economic growth and technological advancement. He noted that India is well-positioned to participate in this shift, backed by its skilled workforce, entrepreneurial ecosystem and growing technological capabilities. According to Setty, the country's challenge is not a lack of talent or innovation potential but the ability to convert these strengths into commercially viable businesses, advanced technologies, manufacturing capabilities and intellectual property with a global presence. He said the larger opportunity lies in building enterprises that can compete internationally and establish India as a leader in frontier technologies. The SBI Chairman also highlighted the evolving role of banks and financial institutions as the economy moves towards high-value manufacturing, green technologies and innovation-led growth. He said the financial sector must adapt its frameworks and financing models to meet the requirements of capital-intensive and technology-driven industries. Setty emphasised that banks will be instrumental in creating the financial architecture necessary to support innovation, investment and scale. As industries increasingly focus on sustainability, advanced manufacturing and global competitiveness, the banking system will need to evolve alongside them to provide long-term support for growth. He further said that the focus of economic development should not be limited to achieving high growth rates, but should also include converting that growth into global competitiveness and leadership across industries. The transition, he noted, requires strengthening India's capacity to build world-class enterprises capable of competing in international markets.

Far-right gains in recent regional elections wont impact 'thriving' India-Germany ties: Envoy

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) German Ambassador to India Jasper Wieck on Wednesday said the electoral gains of the far-right in recent regional elections in his country would have o impact on the thriving Indo-German partnership, while dismissing concerns that the results could affect cooperation on migration, mobility, technology, development, or the EU-India Free Trade Agreement. We recently had regional elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Berlin, the capital of Germany. We have seen considerable gains for the far-right, particularly the Alternative for Germany (AfD). The central question that many of my Indian friends have asked me is whether these election results will have an impact on Indo-German relations. In particular, will they affect our cooperation on migration and mobility, technological cooperation, development cooperation, or the EU-India Free Trade Agreement? My answer is no. They will have no impact on our thriving Indo-German partnership, Wieck said at a press conference here. The far-right AfD won the state election in Saxony-Anhalt with a record 44.5 per cent of the vote, while the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), led by incumbent state leader Sven Schulze, suffered a heavy blow, plunging to 18.5 per cent, down from 37.1 per cent in 2021. In the 83-seat state parliament, the AfD is projected to secure 39 seats, three seats shy of an absolute majority needed to govern alone. The AfD's 35-year-old state lead candidate Ulrich Siegmund hailed the result, declaring that he people have sent a clear signal. On why the recent regional election results are unlikely to affect the India-Germany strategic partnership, Wieck said that Germanys federal policies are governed by the Constitution and federal legislation, while the election results did not give the AfD a majority in any of the three states to govern alone. First of all, our foreign policy, security policy, migration policy, and economic and trade policy are all conducted within the legal framework of our Constitution and federal legislation. Regional elections and regional governments, as well as the governments of individual states, do not have the authority to shape or determine these federal policies, he said. Secondly, if you take a closer look at the results of these elections, you will see that in none of the three states did the AfD achieve a majority that would allow it to govern alone. To the contrary, in all three cases, governments will continue to be formed through the established democratic and constitutional processes, he added. Highlighting the growing defence and security partnership between India and Germany, Wieck further said that the cooperation has developed tremendously over the past few years. I think it started with port visits by German naval vessels, including the Bayern, Frankfurt am Main and Rheinland-Pfalz. Since then, German naval vessels have continued to make port visits to India, and German maritime and air forces have participated in military exercises in India. Next week, Germany will participate in an Air Force exercise with India, with the German Air Force deploying an A400M aircraft, he added.

SIR and the dissent debate: A Constitutional process, not an institutional breakdown

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has rejected the suggestion that differences among its three members amount to an institutional upture, saying internal objections and written notes are an established part of the functioning of a multi-member constitutional body and do not, by themselves, establish illegality or dysfunction. The response followed The Indian Express report of September 23 that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised 14 formal objections over 10 months on decisions of the Commission, including issues linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. While the objections are on record, the ECI has said that the report does not adequately explain the legal framework, safeguards and judicial scrutiny surrounding SIR. The ECI has functioned as a multi-member body since 1993, with differences resolved through majority decisions as provided by law. During a nationwide exercise involving crores of voters, 14 objections over 10 months cannot by themselves establish an institutional crisis, analysts say. The Commission has witnessed sharper disagreements in the past also. In 2009, Chief election Commissioner (CEC) N. Gopalaswami recommended the removal of Election Commissioner Navin Chawla over alleged partisan conduct; the government rejected the recommendation and Chawla later became CEC, experts said. Between 1993 and 1995, CEC T.N. Seshan even challenged the creation of the multi-member Commission in court, leading to an open legal battle with Commissioners M.S. Gill and G.V.G. Krishnamurthy, they noted. Gill later joined the Congress and became a Union Cabinet Minister after his tenure, they said. In a press note issued on Wednesday, the ECI said internal notes and checks are routine mechanisms intended to ensure transparency and legal compliance. It added that all official decisions carry legal sanction under the 2023 law governing the Commission's conduct of business and that every officer can offer suggestions for electoral reforms. The Commission said around 40 new initiatives introduced in the past year were unanimously approved by the full Commission and that elections were successfully conducted in Bihar, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Assam and West Bengal. It also said ECINet and other digital platforms have strict data-security, IT audit and access-control mechanisms. On Form 6, the ECI disputed the suggestion that the statutory voter-registration form was illegally altered. It said its May 2026 SIR order had already provided for a separate Declaration Form to accompany Form 6, containing questions on whether a voter or relative appeared in the previous SIR roll. Legal observers said that changing a statutory form and adding a linked declaration are distinct legal actions. Concerns over centralization of electoral data also remain a matter of scrutiny rather than established wrongdoing, analysts said. The Commissioners sought an audit of database access, but seeking an audit is not evidence of tampering. Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) continue to decide inclusion and exclusion of names, while the ECI has reiterated that ECINet operates with security and audit controls. The reported figure of 13 crore deletions has also been described as misleading by the ECI. The figure relates to names not carried forward into the draft roll, not final deletions. SIR provides for claims, objections, hearings and a final roll. Reasons such as Absent, Shifted, Death and Duplicate are listed so genuine voters can seek correction. The report raises a fair question on who filed these appeals, but it does not establish that the ECI itself filed them. Implying that it did, is a leap the evidence does not support, observers said. More than 1.26 lakh appeals have been resolved and 1.14 lakh voters restored, the Commission said. In Goa, 97 voters were found eligible after hearings, but software lacked a facility to reverse earlier deletions. The Chief Electoral Officer wrote eight times seeking a solution before the final-roll deadline. Observers said this points to a technical shortcoming requiring correction, not proof of an intent to disenfranchise voters. The legal backdrop is the Supreme Court's May 27, 2026, judgment which upheld the ECI's power to conduct SIR under Article 324 of the Constitution read with Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The apex court examined the procedure and did not find the exercise disproportionate or contrary to law. The Supreme Court's judgment also recognised the Commission's responsibility to maintain accurate electoral rolls. Analysts also noted that SIR is not a first-time exercise. India has conducted 10 such revisions since Independence, eight under Congress-led governments. SIR also incorporates multiple safeguards -- Booth Level Officers, supervisors, Assistant EROs, EROs, draft publication, claims and objections, hearings and final-roll publication -- besides monitoring by political parties through Booth Level Agents, experts said. Analysts said the documented disagreements merit scrutiny, particularly on transparency and decision-making, but stressed that internal dissent and institutional wrongdoing are separate questions. The ECI's position is that a multi-member body debating and recording objections, while ultimately taking decisions through the prescribed process, is evidence of institutional checks rather than necessarily a crisis, an analyst noted.

PGTI Tour: Khalin Joshi extends lead to six shots at Bengaluru Open 2026

Digital Desk | Bengaluru, Sep 23 (IANS) Khalin Joshi followed his career-low opening round with a four-under 68 to extend his lead to six shots at the halfway stage of the INR 1 crore Bengaluru Open 2026 at the Karnataka Golf Association (KGA) in Bengaluru on Wednesday. The 34-year-old Bengaluru golfer (61-68), who began the day four strokes ahead after firing an 11-under 61 in round one, made five birdies and a solitary bogey to reach 15-under 129 at his home course on a cloudy, cool and windy day. Joshi remained bogey-free until his 16th hole of the day, the par-four seventh, where he dropped his only shot of the round. The three-time PGTI winner this season arrived in Bengaluru after claiming last weeks Nava Raipur Open. He began the week in seventh place in the Race to India Championship. Local teenager Manoj S. (65-70) retained second place at nine-under 135 after returning a two-under 70. The 18-year-olds eventful round featured five birdies, one bogey and a double bogey. Four players shared third place at seven-under 137: Gurugrams Manu Gandas (69-68), Greater Noidas Saptak Talwar (67-70), Delhis Shaurya Bhattacharya (66-71) and Gurugrams Veer Ahlawat (68-69). Gandas was the 2023 DP World PGTI Rankings champion, while Talwar is the current Race to India Championship leader. Ahlawat topped the DP World PGTI Rankings in 2024. Bengalurus Mari Muthu R. (67-71) slipped from a share of fourth overnight to seventh at six-under 138. Joshi was satisfied with another assured performance and his commanding position at the halfway stage. It was another solid day, Joshi said. Im pleased with the way Ive played over the first two rounds and satisfied with where I am. Im now looking forward to the final two days. Joshi began his second round with consecutive birdies and added three more before his only blemish on the seventh. I started strongly with birdies on my first two holes, he said. I would have liked to finish a little better, especially after making my first bogey of the week, but my game still feels good. Gusty winds and more demanding flag positions provided a different examination from the opening round, although Joshi felt the conditions allowed the players to appreciate KGA at its best. We were blessed with excellent weather, although the gusty wind and tougher flag positions made the course interesting, he said. KGA is my home course, and it is wonderful for the entire field to experience such a great venue in these conditions. With a six-shot cushion heading into the last two rounds, Joshi intends to retain the approach that carried him to 15-under through 36 holes. I want to continue finding fairways and greens, create birdie opportunities and keep applying pressure at the top of the leaderboard, added Joshi, who has his Thai girlfriend caddying for him this week. The halfway cut fell at one-over 145, with 52 players from the field of 132 advancing to the final two rounds. The Bengaluru Open is the final tournament before the top-60 on the 2026 PGTI Order of Merit are confirmed. The players finishing inside the top-60 at the end of this event will retain their playing rights for the 2026-27 season.

DU Study Highlights Yamuna Pollution's Impact On Food Safety

A University of Delhi study has found significant heavy metal contamination in agricultural soil and vegetables grown along the Yamuna river in the capital. The research highlights potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks to consumers due to crops irrigated with polluted wastewater, with specific vegetables showing dangerously high levels of metals like nickel, chromium, and molybdenum.

UDP MLAs joining BJP wont affect MDA govt: Conrad Sangma

Digital Desk | Shillong, Sep 23 (IANS) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday said the defection of eight United Democratic Party (UDP) legislators to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would not affect the functioning of the National Peoples Party (NPP)-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government, while clarifying that the BJP had sought no fresh Cabinet berths. The eight UDP MLAs joined the BJP in New Delhi earlier in the day, raising the partys strength in the 60-member Meghalaya Assembly from two to 10. Reacting to the development, Sangma said the legislators made the decision and that it concerned two political parties, with no direct bearing on the NPP. It is a decision between two political parties; it is the decision of the respective MLAs. It has nothing to do with the NPP. Therefore, it is really the desire and the decision of the MLAs, so I have no comment, he told reporters. Sangma pointed out that both the UDP and BJP are part of the ruling coalition, so the movement of legislators between the two parties has not altered the MDA's overall strength. The strength of the coalition remains the same because it is very much within the coalition, so it does not disturb the overall functioning of our government, he said. The Chief Minister added that even if the political equations changed, the government had a simple majority in the House and would continue to function normally. He acknowledged that the development could create concerns between the UDP and BJP, as legislators had moved from one constituent party to another. There will be some concerns between the two political parties because MLAs from one party have left and joined another. So, they will have to figure that out, he said. On the possibility of a Cabinet reshuffle following the BJPs increased strength, Sangma ruled out any immediate changes. I have already made it very clear, this will not affect anything, he said. Asked whether the BJP had sought additional ministerial berths, Sangma said, No, they have not asked for anything. On whether the BJPs growing presence could pose a challenge to his leadership, Sangma said there was no such threat at present. He added that political parties naturally seek to expand their organisational base in a democracy and the NPP would continue to strengthen its own support base. We have to work towards ensuring that we keep our base strong, Sangma said, reiterating that the NPP would continue to maintain its own political identity.

Delhi High Court seeks Centres response on gender disparity in Territorial Army

A petition highlights the disproportionate allocation of women vacancies, alleging tokenism despite the 2018 ruling

Baba Ramdev, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh bury the hatchet after meeting

Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) A long-standing feud between Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and yoga guru Baba Ramdev appears to have ended with the latter announcing their meeting here on Wednesday, having resolved differences. Baba Ramdev claimed later that based on hearsay and video clips, Singh had developed some misgivings that were subsequently cleared during the meeting. Thanking Singh, he further said that the former President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) offered his respects, adding that he also expressed high regard for sants and Sanatana and that he held Ramdevs work for the country in high esteem. Their feud goes back four years, with the six-term MP having alleged that Ramdev or his organisation had done nothing for the birthplace of ancient Indian sage and philosopher Maharishi Patanjali, which Singh said was in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda. The sage is widely regarded as the father of classical yoga and the author of the Yoga Sutras. The BJP leader, who himself was born in Bishnoharpur village of Gonda district, had demanded that Ramdev and Patanjali managing director Balakrishna stop using the sages name for their brand. Patanjali Foods Limited has also filed a Rs 50-crore defamation suit against the BJP leader in the Madhya Pradesh High Court for criticising its ghee as fake, urging people to instead make their own. Saying that milk is easily available in a village and that he also used to go to graze buffaloes, he advised people to rear buffaloes and cows at home for making pure milk and ghee. In response to the case, Singh had publicly alleged that Ramdev is the emperor of adulterators, claiming that several of his products have been banned in other countries. In 2023, when Singh was involved in a controversy involving female wrestlers who accused him of sexual harassment as the WFI head, seeking his arrest, Ramdev reportedly stood with the complainants. Last month, Singh charged Ramdev with introducing spurious products and foreign goods in the name of Swadeshi. Referring to an earlier agitation, he had also said that instead of putting on sindoor and salwar, the yoga guru should fight a decisive battle now like a man. The long diatribe appears to have ended on Wednesday, with the two sitting together to end the feud.

Gold falls Rs 900 to Rs 1.54 lakh per 10 gm amid weak global cues

New Delhi, Sep 23 (PTI) Gold prices fell for the third straight session, declining Rs 900 to Rs 1.54 lakh per 10 grams in the national capital on Wednesday as a stronger US dollar and weak global trends weighed on investor sentiment. The yellow metal of 99.9 per cent purity had closed at Rs 1,54,900 per 10 grams on Tuesday. Silver, however, remained unchanged for the second straight session at Rs 2.42 lakh per kilogram, inclusive of all taxes, according to local traders. Gold traded weak on Wednesday as traders booked profits at higher levels, said Jateen Trivedi, VP Research

Delhi Court Grants Bail To Ukrainians In Drone Warfare Case

A Delhi court has granted default bail to six Ukrainian nationals arrested in connection with an NIA probe into a drone-warfare training camp linked to ethnic armed groups in Myanmar. The court also discharged them from Immigration and Foreigners Act charges after the FRRO compounded the offences with a fine. The NIA's UAPA probe is ongoing, with a supplementary chargesheet possible.