Delhi News

Pharma company finance prez resigns due to pollution crisis

Extortion case: Jailed Sukesh offers 217-crore settlement

Brawl after boy hurls comment at girls, 3 held

Traffic curbs near CP for sewer work

Inadmissible evidence: Relief for riots accused

Drainage on roads prone to flooding to be upgraded

Dense smog engulfs Delhi-NCR: IMD issues orange alert; visuals show almost zero visibility

SHANTI bill marks landmark reform in Indias nuclear sector, says Jitendra Singh

NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday described the SHANTI Bill as one of the Modi governments most significant science reforms. Addressing the media, he noted that parliamentary debates on reform have traditionally focused on welfare programmes and governance, but Indias long-term socio-economic trajectory will increasingly be shaped by advances in science and technology. According to Dr Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modis third term is defined by bold, structural reforms emphasising science, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Referring specifically to the SHANTI Bill, he said it represents a decisive break from convention by placing science-led reform at the heart of national transformation. The Bill must be seen as one of the most significant science reforms of the Modi Government, he added. Dr Singh highlighted that while earlier reforms were defined by major political and strategic decisions, Modi 3.0 is distinguished by dismantling long-standing barriers in sectors critical to Indias technological and economic future. The SHANTI Bill represents a historic reform of the nuclear sector, unlocking its potential for peaceful, clean, and sustainable energy while maintaining uncompromising standards of safety, sovereignty, and public interest. Indias nuclear sector set for major overhaul with 2025 reform bill He stressed that such a reform had been unthinkable for over six decades and was made possible by PM Modis ability to challenge legacy taboos and align national policy with global best practices. Reaffirming Indias commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, Dr Singh recalled that the countrys nuclear programme, since the time of Dr Homi Bhabha, was intended to support development, healthcare, and energy security. The SHANTI Bill reinforces this principle, enabling expansion for civilian applications such as clean power generation, medical use, and advanced research, while strictly ruling out any military use. Highlighting the importance of nuclear energy for an emerging AI-, quantum-, and data-driven economy, the Minister said it provides reliable, round-the-clock power, unlike intermittent renewable sources. As India transitions away from fossil fuels and coal, nuclear power will play a crucial role in sustaining advanced technologies, digital infrastructure, and strategic sectors. SHANTI bill opens door for private players in nuclear sector Dr Singh noted that Indias nuclear power capacity has doubled from around 4.4 GW in 2014 to nearly 8.7 GW today, with plans to reach about 100 GW by 2047. This would allow nuclear energy to supply close to 10 per cent of the countrys electricity needs, supporting Indias Net Zero commitments. The Minister also highlighted the growing contribution of nuclear science to healthcare, particularly in cancer diagnosis and treatment using nuclear medicine and isotopes, underlining its role in human welfare and social well-being. Looking ahead, Dr Singh said India is moving towards Small Modular Reactors, ideal for dense urban areas, industrial corridors, and emerging economic zones. These reactors are expected to strengthen energy security while ensuring environmental responsibility. He added that the SHANTI Bill has received broad acceptance from the scientific community, industry, start-ups, and the wider innovation ecosystem, reflecting strong national consensus on modernising and reforming Indias nuclear sector. Dr Singh concluded that the Bill exemplifies Modi 3.0s reform-first approach, with science-driven policy guiding Indias journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

PM Modi urges states to boost manufacturing, services and human capital at chief secretaries conference

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the three-day national Conference of Chief Secretaries on Sunday, called upon states and Union Territories to promote manufacturing, enhance the ease of doing business, and strengthen the services sector. Speaking on the final day of the conference, themed Human Capital for Viksit Bharat, the Prime Minister emphasised collective efforts to make India Atmanirbhar, empower citizens, and realise the vision of a developed India. Highlighting Indias agricultural potential, PM Modi said, India has the potential to become the worlds food basket. We must move towards high-value agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, dairying, and fisheries. This is how India can become a major food exporter. He also urged states and UTs to work towards making India a global services powerhouse. The Prime Minister noted that the conference coincided with a period of next-generation reforms. India has boarded the Reforms Express, and the primary engine of this Reforms Express is our youth, our demography. That is why it is our endeavour to empower this demographic, he said. Stressing the importance of quality across sectors, PM Modi underlined the need for quality governance, service delivery, and manufacturing. Advocating the wider promotion of the Make in India initiative, he said, Let us work towards making the label Made in India synonymous with excellence, and strengthen our commitment to Zero Effect, Zero Defect. He highlighted steps taken to foster a new work culture in governance and service delivery and spoke at length about integrating technology to bring positive change to citizens lives. Discussions during the conference covered skill development, higher education, youth empowerment, sports, and related areas. Modi to chair 3-day national conference of chief secretaries to enhance Centre-states coordination The Prime Minister urged the Centre and states to jointly identify 100 products for domestic manufacturing to reduce import dependence and strengthen economic resilience. He also called for mapping skill demand at both state and global levels and stressed the collaboration of academia and industry to create high-quality talent in higher education. PM Modi further recommended that each state develop at least one world-class tourist destination and invest in infrastructure for sports. He announced the upcoming launch of the National Manufacturing Mission and advocated for strengthening healthcare, education, transport, tourism, professional services, and AI to make India a global services giant. He also urged states to leverage the Gyan Bharati Mission for digitisation of manuscripts and to align state action plans with decisions from both the Chief Secretaries and DGP conferences. Emphasising actionable outcomes, PM Modi called on states to prepare 10-year plans with 1, 2, and 10-year targets, utilising technology to achieve them. The three-day conference, which concluded on a positive note under the Prime Ministers chairmanship, included wide-ranging sessions on Swadeshi initiatives, post-LWE development, Atmanirbhar Bharat, world-class tourism, technology in governance, deregulation, and other key subjects. The event brought together Chief Secretaries from all states and Union Territories, senior central officials, and experts to share best practices and design a unified roadmap for maximising Indias human capital potential. Anchored in PM Modis vision of cooperative federalism, the conference positioned citizens not just as a demographic dividend but as critical human capital, focusing on education, skilling, and employment opportunities for a future-ready India. Intensive deliberations also addressed AgriStack for smart supply chains, heritage and manuscript preservation, digitisation, and integrating Ayush knowledge into primary healthcare delivery. Key officials in attendance included the Prime Ministers Principal Secretary Dr P. K. Mishra, Shaktikanta Das, Principal Secretary to the PM, Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, Dr T. V. Sominathan, Cabinet Secretary, and other senior central government officials.

Amid Poor Air Quality In Delhi, 'Orange' Alert Issued For Dense Fog On Monday

The national capital recorded air quality in the very poor category on Sunday with an overall Air Quality Index reading of 390, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

AirSewa portal receives over 14,000 grievances in December amid IndiGo meltdown

NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Civil Aviations AirSewa platform, the official grievance redressal mechanism for air passengers, faced a surge of complaints during the IndiGo operational meltdown in early December. In response, a 24x7 real-time Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) was established on 10 December to expedite resolution of public grievances. Data shared by the ministry indicates that over 14,000 grievances were submitted through the portal, as well as via calls, emails, and social media, during December. Of these, 3,206 complaints were lodged in a single week between 3 and 9 December, largely due to the IndiGo disruption, which affected domestic operations nationwide from 1 to 9 December. Speaking to TNIE, Deputy Director General Pramod Kumar Thakur said, A 100-strong team comprising airport and airline representatives, officials from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the Airports Authority of India, and the Ministry are posted in the real-time PACR. They work round-the-clock in three shifts to ensure passenger grievances are resolved promptly. We have already redressed most of the nearly 14,000 grievances received in December. The media was given a tour of the control room at Udaan Bhawan, Safdarjung Airport, to observe its functioning. The PACR has significantly improved our response to the varied issues raised by the public and will be made a permanent set-up, Thakur added. The Ministry highlighted the need for such a PACR, citing the rapid growth of aviation in India, which has resulted in challenges such as frequent flight delays, delayed or inadequate refunds, long queues, poor passenger facilities at airports, and lost baggage incidents. These concerns underscored the need for a structured, systematic, and coordinated response rather than ad-hoc interventions, the Ministry said. AirSewa was set up in 2016 as an integrated feedback and redressal mechanism across all platforms. While it functioned effectively under routine circumstances, the dispersion of key stakeholders across various government departments and aviation entities often caused delays in grievance resolution. This prompted the establishment of the integrated PACR to streamline the process.

Eating healthy but still tired, bloated or gaining weight? Delhi nutritionist says the real problem may be how you combine your foods

Delhi based clinical nutritionist Lovneet Batra says eating healthy foods alone may not guarantee better health outcomes. In a recent Instagram post, she explained that improper food combinations can disrupt digestion, spike insulin and strain hormones, leading to weight gain, fatigue and gut issues despite clean eating. Batra stresses that balancing fibre, protein, fats and carbohydrates on the plate is essential for stable blood sugar, hormonal health and sustained energy.

Red Fort blast victims yet to get govt. compensation

Kin of dead say despite submitting documents, they are yet to get any response from Delhi government; victims robbed of livelihood struggle, say authorities have asked them to wait

Watch: SC to hear CBIs plea against HC order suspending Sengars life sentence in Unnao rape case on Dec. 29

The Supreme Court will hear the CBIs plea on December 29 challenging a Delhi High Court order that suspended the life sentence of expelled BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case.

IndiGo, SpiceJet issue travel advisory after IMD's orange alert for Delhi due to fog

Delhi is under an orange alert due to dense fog, with temperatures expected around 22 and 7 degrees Celsius. Airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet have issued advisories for flight delays and cancellations across several North Indian cities. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality has turned 'severe', prompting health warnings and recommendations for residents.

Govt probes illegal groundwater extraction in Paharganj

Delhi braces for dense fog, smog as orange alert issued for Monday

Delhi braces for a difficult start to the week. The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for very dense fog. Temperatures will remain chilly, severely affecting visibility. Pollution levels are dangerously high. The Air Quality Index is in the 'very poor' category, with some areas reaching 'severe'. Humidity is also extremely high, worsening conditions.

Akums Pharmas Finance Chief Rajkumar Bafna Steps Down Citing Delhi Pollution

In a resignation letter addressed to Chief Financial Officer Sumeet Sood, Bafna wrote that he was stepping down due to Delhi Pollution.

BJP president on Delhi visit today

President Droupadi Murmu arrives in Ranchi on three-day Jharkhand visit

RANCHI: President Droupadi Murmu, who is on a three-day visit to Jharkhand, arrived in Ranchi on Sunday evening. She was received at Birsa Munda Airport by Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar and Chief Minister Hemant Soren. The airport and surrounding areas were placed under heightened surveillance, with police and administrative teams maintaining full preparedness along major routes. Following her arrival, the President was escorted to Lok Bhawan in a tightly guarded convoy. Senior officials from the police and civil administration accompanied the movement, while traffic was closely regulated with additional personnel deployed at sensitive points. The state administration has been making extensive preparations for the Presidents stay, during which she is scheduled to participate in several official engagements and meetings. On Monday, the President will attend the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script of the Santali language and address the 15th convocation ceremony of the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Jamshedpur. She will also pay tribute to Pandit Raghunath Murmu, the creator of the Ol Chiki script, by garlanding his bust. In view of the Presidents programme, security arrangements in Jamshedpur and nearby areas have been further intensified. The district administration, in coordination with police and intelligence agencies, has designated routes from the airport to event venues as high-security corridors. Multiple layers of security personnel, along with bomb disposal units, dog squads and surveillance teams, have been deployed at strategic locations. To safeguard the airspace, a temporary no-fly zone has been enforced over Jamshedpur and adjoining subdivisions from 6 pm on December 28 until the completion of the visit. Additional forces have been deployed from neighbouring districts, and officials have conducted inspections along key routes to eliminate potential hazards and ensure the smooth movement of the presidential convoy. Industrial establishments have also been advised to adjust working hours to minimise traffic congestion. The President will return to Ranchi and stay overnight at Lok Bhawan. On Tuesday, she will visit Gumla to address the Antarrajyiy Jansanskritik Samagam SamarohKartik Jatra, an interstate folk cultural gathering. Other dignitaries scheduled to attend the programme include Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram, Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Jharkhand Minister for Tribal Affairs Chamra Linda. The President is scheduled to depart for Delhi on Tuesday.

'Isolated criminal acts': Bangladesh rejects India's concerns over minority safety

Bangladesh on Sunday rejected Indias concerns over the safety of religious minorities in the country, asserting that recent incidents involving members of the Hindu community were isolated criminal acts and not reflective of any systematic persecution. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dhaka said remarks made by India on unremitting hostilities against minorities was not only inaccurate but also misleading. The Government of Bangladesh categorically rejects any inaccurate, exaggerated or motivated narratives that misrepresent Bangladeshs longstanding tradition of communal harmony, the statement said. The response followed comments by Indias Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which had described continuing violence against minorities in Bangladesh as a matter of grave concern. New Delhi had condemned the December 18 lynching of Hindu youth Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh, who was beaten to death by a mob over allegations of blasphemy, and called for those responsible to be brought to justice. Bangladeshs foreign ministry said there were systematic attempts to project isolated criminal incidents as evidence of organised persecution of Hindus. It alleged that such narratives were being selectively amplified and misused in parts of India to spread anti-Bangladesh sentiment and undermine bilateral relations. The ministry also disputed Indias reference to another recent death of a Hindu man in Rajbari district , stating that the individual was a listed criminal who died while allegedly committing extortion along with a Muslim accomplice, who was later arrested. Presenting the case as minority persecution was not factual, it said. Rift in Bangladeshs NCP over Jamaat alliance as leaders resign ahead of polls

4th T20I: Jemimah Unavailable For Selection Due To Weakness From Mild Fever, Says BCCI

The BCCI Medical Team: India batter Jemimah Rodrigues was ruled out of selection for the fourth womens T20I against Sri Lanka at the Greenfield International Stadium due to weakness from a mild fever, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said on Sunday. Ms Jemimah Rodrigues was unavailable for selection in the 4th T20I in Thiruvananthapuram due to weakness arising from mild fever. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring her progress and recovery, said the BCCI in a statement. In place of Jemimah, batting all-rounder Harleen Deol has come into the playing eleven for the match, where India will bat first against Sri Lanka for the first time in the ongoing series, with the hosts having an unassailable 3-0 lead. Jemimah made scores of 69 not out, 26, and nine, and sits as the second leading run-getter in the series after opener Shafali Verma. The unbeaten 69 also led to Jemimah jumping five places to be at number nine in the womens T20I batting rankings. Despite missing out on Sundays clash, Jemimah has enjoyed a standout 2025, ranking third among Indias run-scorers 771 runs in ODIs and 212 runs in T20Is. She played a pivotal role in Indias maiden ODI World Cup triumph, striking an unbeaten 127 against Australia in the semi-final before the team overcame South Africa in the final to lift the title at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Earlier this month, Jemimah was appointed as captain of Delhi Capitals ahead of the fourth season of the Womens Premier League (WPL), replacing Meg Lanning in the role. Meg had led DC to the final in each of the first three editions of the tournament, where Jemimah was the vice-captain, but was not retained by the franchise for the upcoming season. Despite missing out on Sundays clash, Jemimah has enjoyed a standout 2025, ranking third among Indias run-scorers 771 runs in ODIs and 212 runs in T20Is. She played a pivotal role in Indias maiden ODI World Cup triumph, striking an unbeaten 127 against Australia in the semi-final before the team overcame South Africa in the final to lift the title at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Its the first time India will bat in the series, after electing to bowl, and then using dew to their advantage to chase down modest totals without breaking a sweat. Article Source: IANS

Retired bureaucrats raise concerns over SC orders allowing ex post facto clearances, Aravalli mining

A group of retired bureaucrats, operating under the banner of the Constitutional Conduct Group (CCG), has written an open letter expressing concern over recent Supreme Court orders that, they allege, compromise the courts constitutional responsibility to protect life and nature in India. The letter flags, among other issues, a recent ruling that could open up more than 90 per cent of the Aravalli range to mining and construction, potentially undermining its role as a dust barrier for the Delhi NCR region. The letter is signed by 79 members of the CCG who have held senior positions in the Indian government, including cabinet secretaries, ambassadors, secretaries, Indian Forest Service officials, Directors General of Police and national security advisors. It points to what the group describes as a disturbing trend in recent judicial decisions affecting environmental protection. One of the key concerns raised relates to the Supreme Courts November 18, 2025, order, in which a three judge bench, by a 2:1 majority, allowed the granting of ex post facto environmental clearances until a larger bench of the apex court addresses the legal question. This order effectively permits the Union government to process environmental clearance applications retrospectively. Earlier, in May, a two judge bench had ruled that ex post facto environmental clearances granted to projects were illegal and contrary to established environmental jurisprudence. There is currently no clarity on when the larger bench will be constituted to hear the ex post facto clearance case. The letter also addresses a recent Supreme Court order concerning the Aravalli hill range. The apex court accepted a proposal from the Central government to redefine the Aravalli hills in a manner that could potentially exclude over 90 per cent of the range from environmental protection. According to the CCG, this redefinition could open large tracts of the Aravallis to mining and construction activities, allegedly weakening the regions capacity to function as a dust barrier for the Delhi NCR area. In addition, the court has directed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to prepare a scientific mapping and a sustainable mining plan for the Aravallis. While acknowledging the need for scientific assessment, the letter expresses apprehension that such measures may legitimise increased mining activity in ecologically sensitive zones. The retired officials have also criticised a recent third order of the apex court that, they allege, weakens the functioning of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC). The CEC was established in 2002 as an independent body to advise the Supreme Court on environmental matters and to act as an environmental watchdog. According to the letter, the CEC has, in recent times, increasingly supported government decisions that allegedly harm the environment, purportedly under the influence of the MoEFCC. The CCG has stated that it has no political affiliation and is committed to upholding the foundational values of the Republic, along with adherence to established norms of constitutional conduct.

87.5% conviction rate achieved in red sanders smuggling cases in 2025: Tirupati SP

Several major inter-State operations were carried out in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat and New Delhi, where precious logs worth 16.5 crore were seized, says Subbarayudu

Laura Harris creates history, ex-Delhi Capitals star equals all-time world record in women's T20 cricket

Laura Harris scripted history with a breathtaking knock as the former Delhi Capitals Women star equalled a long-standing world record in women's T20 cricket. Her explosive innings left fans stunned and firmly placed her among the elite power-hitters of the game.

Aviation ministry sets up 247 control room to assist passengers

New Delhi: To address air travellers grievances more promptly, the civil aviation ministry has set up the Passenger Assistance Control Room (PACR) that functions round-the-clock to resolve the issues. Officials from the ministry, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), airlines and Airports Authority of India (AAI), are among those working at the centre, which monitors 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 .

Pakistan President admits he was advised to take shelter in bunker during Operation Sindoor

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has disclosed that he was advised by his Military Secretary to take shelter in a bunker during the four-day military confrontation with India in May, but he chose to stay put, underscoring the level of alarm within Pakistans top leadership during Indias Operation Sindoor. Speaking at a public event on Saturday, Zardari said his Military Secretary approached him after Indian strikes began, urging him to move to a bunker for safety. He told me the war had started and suggested we go to the bunkers. I refused. If martyrdom is destined, it will happen here. Leaders do not die in bunkers, Zardari said. He also claimed he had anticipated the conflict several days in advance. India launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of May 7, following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam , Jammu and Kashmir, in which 26 civilians were killed. Indian forces carried out precision strikes targeting terror camps and military infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, destroying at least nine terror facilities and eliminating over a hundred terrorists. The operation triggered a sharp escalation, with Pakistan attempting missile and drone attacks on Indian cities, most of which were intercepted. India responded by striking key Pakistani military installations and airbases. The hostilities ended on May 10 after Pakistans Director General of Military Operations reached out to his Indian counterpart to propose a ceasefire, which New Delhi accepted. The agreement to halt military action on land, sea and air was later confirmed by Indias Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri . Zardaris remarks, however, were questioned by Indian military veterans. Retired Lieutenant General KJS Dhillon said Pakistans political and military leadership had in fact taken shelter during the conflict. Even the army chief was inside a bunker. Only the soldiers were exposed. If they truly knew four days in advance, they failed to stop even a single missile from hitting its targets, he said. Despite Islamabads attempts to downplay the impact of Operation Sindoor, Pakistani leaders have since acknowledged damage. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar admitted that India struck the Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindis Chakala area, causing damage and injuries to personnel. He said India launched dozens of drones during the escalation, with one causing damage to a military installation. India, for its part, has said the operation demonstrated its ability to conduct precise and limited strikes while deterring further attacks. The Indian Air Force stated that several Pakistani aircraft, including fighter jets and a large airborne platform, were downed during the operation.

Akum Pharmas Finance chief Rajkumar Bafna resigns citing pollution in Delhi

This is probably the first public instance that the senior management personnel of a listed company has cited pollution in Delhi NCR as the reason behind resignation

In a first, ground handling firm AISATS to use simulators for staff training

The company is already present in Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mangaluru, Ranchi, Raipur and Thiruvananthapuram. Additionally, it is developing a multi-modal cargo hub at Noida airport

Tariff-hit 2025, but Indias exports chart a steady course, momentum likely to extend into 2026

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: The year of tariffs was marked by a steep 50 per cent US duty on Indias exports in 2025, but Indian exporters adapted by diversifying markets, keeping export growth resilient with momentum likely to extend into 2026. As one of the senior-most officers of the commerce ministry put it, trade is like water, it finds its own course, the countrys merchandise exports responded with agility to a series of disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic (2020-22), [] The post Tariff-hit 2025, but Indias exports chart a steady course, momentum likely to extend into 2026 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

SHANTI Bill One Of Modi Govts Biggest Science Reforms: Dr Jitendra

NEW DELHI, Dec 28 : SHANTI Bill will go down in history as one of the Modi Governments biggest science reforms, said Union Minister Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh in a media interview here today. The Minister observed that while parliamentary discourse on reforms has traditionally focused on public welfare schemes and governance measures, the long-term socio-economic character of the nation will increasingly be shaped by reforms in science and technology. The third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, [] The post SHANTI Bill One Of Modi Govts Biggest Science Reforms: Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Experts recommend micro-hospitals as Indias new shield against rising non-communicable diseases

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: As Indias healthcare system buckles under a non-communicable diseases (NCDs) epidemic, experts advocated setting up of micro-hospitals which they claimed can curb Indias deaths due to NCDs by replacing fragmented tertiary models with specialist-led coordinated care and reduced wait times. WHO data reveals that NCDs account for an estimated 63 per cent of all deaths in India, they said. Hospital bed density lags at just 0.55 per 1,000 population far below the WHOs 3 [] The post Experts recommend micro-hospitals as Indias new shield against rising non-communicable diseases appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Request Sonia Gandhi To Return Nehrus Letters To Prime Ministers Museum: Shekhawat

New Delhi, Dec 28: Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Sunday urged former Congress president Sonia Gandhi to return the correspondences and documents of first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru to the Prime Ministers Museum and Library, stating that they belonged to the country and not to any individual. In an interview with PTI Videos, Shekhawat also said Aravalli Hills controversy was a classic example of the Congress creating an issue out of a non-issue. Talking about [] The post Request Sonia Gandhi To Return Nehrus Letters To Prime Ministers Museum: Shekhawat appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Tourist surge chokes Manali as over 33,000 vehicles enter, snowfall forecast from December 30

CHANDIGARH: Ahead of the New Year, tourist footfall has seen a sharp rise in Kullu Manali and adjoining regions of Himachal Pradesh, with the tourist season currently at its peak. The surge has led to massive traffic jams across the hill region, with thousands of vehicles arriving daily. In just the past week, from December 21 to 27, as many as 13,240 tourist vehicles from other states crossed into Manali, while 34,426 vehicles passed through the Atal Tunnel on the Manali Leh highway during the same period, indicating a substantial rise in tourist movement towards Lahaul and Spiti. A large number of visitors are reportedly fleeing toxic fumes in Delhi and the plains, even as snowfall and rain are expected from December 30. As per figures available with the police, recorded at the Green Barrier in Manali, 2,188 vehicles crossed the barrier on December 27 (Saturday). A day earlier, on December 26, 2,437 vehicles crossed, while on Christmas Day, December 25, the number stood at 2,910. This takes the total number of vehicles from December 21 to 27 to 13,420. The number of vehicles has been steadily rising, with 7,795 vehicles recorded from December 15 to 21, 7,162 vehicles from December 8 to 14, and 5,306 vehicles from December 1 to 7. In total, from December 1 to December 27, as many as 33,503 vehicles crossed into Manali. The heavy tourist rush has triggered traffic jams in Manali, particularly at the entrance to the town, on the route to the Hadimba Temple, the Old Manali road, in Prini, Aleo and Vashisht villages, and along the Manali Leh highway towards the Atal Tunnel and Rohtang Pass. At the scenic Atal Tunnel, 6,848 vehicles entered on December 27, while on Friday, December 26, the number peaked at 7,237, the highest so far this season. On Christmas Day, 4,752 vehicles passed through the tunnel. A total of 34,426 vehicles entered the tunnel from December 21 to 27. The rising trend is evident from earlier weeks as well, with 16,622 vehicles recorded from December 1 to 7, 20,710 from December 8 to 14, and 24,497 from December 15 to 21. In 2023, a record breaking 14,865 vehicles from outside the state flooded Manali and entered the Atal Tunnel on Christmas Day, sparking traffic snarls across the entire region. Traffic congestion has also been reported in Tirthan Valley and on National Highway 305 from Aut to Jalori Jot in the Banjar subdivision of Kullu district. Popular tourist destinations such as Solang Valley, the Atal Tunnel and Shinkula Pass have emerged as major hubs of tourist activity. Increasing numbers of visitors are now venturing beyond Manali to experience scenic landscapes, adventure sports and panoramic views of the Himalayas, adding to the festive atmosphere in the region. The surge in tourism has boosted the morale of hoteliers, transporters and adventure operators in Kullu Manali and Lahaul Spiti. After encouraging business during the Christmas period, stakeholders are optimistic that tourist numbers will rise further during the New Year celebrations. A majority of hotels have reported full bookings for Christmas, and New Year reservations continue to rise steadily. The tourism industry believes that if the current trend continues, Manali could be operating at full capacity on New Years Eve. Talking to this newspaper, the President of the Federation of Himachal Hotels and Restaurant Association and former president of the Hoteliers Association Manali, Gajender Thakur, said that there are 45,000 rooms across hotels, homestays and B&Bs in Manali, with a total occupancy capacity of 90,000 tourists. At present, we are running at 95 per cent full capacity for the last fifteen days and this will continue till January 5. After 2023, we have again seen such a tourist footfall, he said. He added that online queries and advance bookings for hotel rooms in Manali had increased significantly in recent days, reflecting growing tourist interest. The hill state, which is currently experiencing a prolonged dry spell, is expected to receive fresh snowfall and rainfall from December 30 onwards, bringing cheer to tourists as well as locals. According to the state Meteorological Department, a fresh Western Disturbance is likely to affect the western Himalayan region from December 30. As a result, middle and higher hill areas of the state are expected to witness light snowfall and rainfall at isolated places from December 30 to January 1. Lower hill regions and plain areas of the state are very likely to witness dense fog during early mornings and late evenings. The department has issued an orange warning for Bilaspur and Mandi districts till December 29, after which a yellow warning will remain in place till December 31 for Una, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kangra, Mandi, Solan and Sirmaur districts.

Fin Min asks banks, financial institutions for prompt reporting of vigilance matters

NEW DELHI, Dec 28:The finance ministry has directed public sector banks and financial institutions, including insurance companies, to promptly report vigilance-related matters concerning whole-time directors (WTDs) of their respective companies. The directive from the Department of Financial Services (DFS) under the ministry follows several instances where adverse information about board-level appointees was not promptly reported. In many cases, it said, such critical adverse inputs like private complaints, court observations, references or inputs from the CBI or other Law Enforcement [] The post Fin Min asks banks, financial institutions for prompt reporting of vigilance matters appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Customer experience, value to drive Indias food delivery: Swiggy, magicpin

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: Indias food delivery growth in 2026 will be driven by customer experience, speed and value consciousness, according to aggregators magicpin and Swiggy. Anshoo Sharma, CEO & Founder of magicpin, Indias third-largest food delivery platform, believes growth will come from deeper merchant inclusion and catering to value conscious users. We are scaling by onboarding a wide range of merchants, from single, standalone local restaurants to large brands and national chains, enabling them to participate competitively in [] The post Customer experience, value to drive Indias food delivery: Swiggy, magicpin appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Pharma firms finance president steps down, cites Delhi pollution for decision

Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd has informed the NSE and BSE that its PresidentFinance and senior management personnel, Rajkumar Bafna, has resigned with effect from December 31, citing personal reasons in the regulatory filing

Imran Khan claims Ranbir, Ranveer, Shahid earn over Rs 30 crore

Hyderabad: Imran Khan is a Bollywood actor best known for films like Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, Kidnap, Delhi Belly, I Hate Luv Storys, and Mere Brother Ki Dulhan. After being away from the big screen for several years, he is now set to return with Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos, marking a much talked about 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: Three minors arrested after scuffle over objectionable comments in Farsh bazar

A scuffle erupted in Farsh Bazar, Delhi, involving three minors. The incident began when a 17-year-old boy allegedly made objectionable comments towards two underage girls. When the girls objected, the situation escalated. Their cousins intervened, leading to a fight. The boy then called his friends, further intensifying the conflict. Two cousins sustained injuries, and a scooter was damaged.

Digvijaya Singh controversy: Tharoor says organisation needs strengthening

New Delhi: Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday came out in support of the views of his party colleague Digvijaya Singh, saying the organisation should be strengthened. At the 140th Foundation Day event at the Congress Indira Bhawan headquarters, Tharoor was seated next to Digvijaya Singh and exchanged notes. Ahead of the CWC meet on 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 .

Photograph With Buddhist Stupas Found In France Reveals Kashmirs Glorious Past: PM Modi

New Delhi, Dec 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said an old, blurry photograph of three Buddhist stupas of Baramulla found in France has revealed Kashmirs glorious past dating back nearly two thousand years. In his monthly Mann Ki Baat radio address, Modi said large human-made structures were discovered in Jammu and Kashmir, a development which will fill you up with pride regarding its cultural and historical heritage. For years, people had been seeing some tall mounds in Baramullahs [] The post Photograph With Buddhist Stupas Found In France Reveals Kashmirs Glorious Past: PM Modi appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Kailash Kher on Gwalior concert chaos: Bhai, pagalpan achcha hai par itna bhi nahi

Speaking to us, the singer explains what actually happened. Unhe laga stage pe jaa sakte hain, toh kuch stage pe chadhne lage. Humein laga stampede na ho jaye, tab humne bola janwargiri mat kariye, humein show band karna padega. We paused our performance for some time, but continued once everything was sorted, he says.

Not chips, nor chocolates: Delhis RML Hospital surgeon warns of a healthy food parents give kids that may trigger early fatty liver

A Delhi RML Hospital surgeon has warned that a common food parents consider healthy may raise fatty liver risk in children. In an Instagram awareness post, Dr Obaidur Rahman flagged packaged fruit juices and cream biscuits as key contributors due to high sugar and fructose content. He noted rising cases of fatty liver even among toddlers and urged parents to prioritise whole fruits and nutritious, protein rich diets over processed foods.

Indian counterfeit rabies vaccine flagged by Australia, maker clarifies

New Delhi: Days after Australia issued an advisory against counterfeit rabies vaccine in India, a public sector manufacturer of the vaccine Abhayrab clarified that the concern revolves around a specific batch identified in January 2025, and did not merit a blanket warning against it. The vaccine manufacturer, the Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL), said the advisory 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 .

Kharge, Sonia, Rahul lead Congress 140th Foundation Day flag hoisting event

New Delhi: The Indian National Congress on Sunday marked its 140th Foundation Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony at Indira Bhawan in New Delhi, attended by the partys top leadership, including Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge, Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and several senior leaders. Sharing visuals 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 .

Organisation should be strengthened: Tharoor supports Digvijaya Singhs views

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: At the 140th Foundation Day event at the Congress headquarters here on Sunday, Shashi Tharoor supported the views of his party colleague Digvijaya Singh, saying the organisation should be strengthened. Tharoor was seated next to Digivijaya Singh during the function at the partys Indira Bhawan headquarters. Singh created a flutter on Saturday by lauding the organisational power of RSS-BJP as he shared Narendra Modis old picture and said how a grassroots worker went on to [] The post Organisation should be strengthened: Tharoor supports Digvijaya Singhs views appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Air India Express to get first line-fit Boeing 737-8 MAX

Air India Express is set to welcome its first line-fit Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft in Delhi on December 29.

Cong Not Just A Political Party, But Voice Of Indias Soul: Rahul On Partys Foundation Day

New Delhi, Dec 28: On the 140th Foundation Day on Sunday, Rahul Gandhi said the Congress is not just a political party, but the voice of Indias soul that has stood with every weak, deprived and hardworking person. He attended the 140th Foundation Day function at the Indira Bhawan headquarters of the party here. In a post on X, he said, The resolve is to fight even more strongly the battle for truth, courage, and to protect the Constitution against [] The post Cong Not Just A Political Party, But Voice Of Indias Soul: Rahul On Partys Foundation Day appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Is KC Venugopal Super CM? BJP Says Congress High Command Interfering In Bengaluru Demolitions

BJP's Ashoka said Karnataka is governed by a constitutionally elected chief minister and cabinet, not by an AICC general secretary sitting in Delhi.

Air India Express' Boeing 737-8 Max honours Ratan Tata with unique call sign

NEW DELHI: To mark the 88 th birth anniversary of the former Chairman Emeritus of the Tata Group, Ratan Naval Tata, the Call Sign (Registration Plate) of the 51 st 737-8 Max aircraft of Air India Express, which took off from the Boeing manufacturing unit at Seattle to Delhi on Saturday morning, will have letters inscribed on the plate VT-RNT. Indias aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, has given its nod for the move. VT was allotted to India for its Call Sign plate by the International Telecommunication Union while RNT is an acronym for industrialist Ratan Naval Tata. The 180-seater with four sets of Flight Captains and Flying Officers took off from Seattle on Friday morning without any passengers, a source said. Billed as 'The Visionary Aircraft, it will fly via Iceland and Kuwait before terminating at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Monday. This would be the first AI Express aircraft which will be a Line Fit one, which means it will be customised completely as per the requirements of the airline. The cabin interiors, as well as the exterior livery design are as per the airline standards were done at the manufacturing facility for this aircraft, the source said. In the case of all the previous Max aircraft that reached the airline from the US,all these aspects were carried out at the MRO facilities across the country. The Tata Group took over the beleaguered Air India and Air India Express in January 2022. The operational integration and legal merger of Air India Express and AirAsia India into one entity took place on October 1, 2024. Incidentally, an initiative to have a special registration plate was done by Air Asia India in the past for JRD Tata, with the letters - VT-JRD. It was called `The Pioneer Aircraft'. Post-merger, this aircraft too now finds a place in the fleet of Air India Express. So, we will shortly be operating two aircraft with special number plates, another source said. Ratan Tata was born on December 28, 1937 in Mumbai and passed away on October 9, 2024. He is the nephew of J R D Tata, who founded Indias first airline, Tata Airlines (later Air India) in 1932.

DDA Answer Keys 2025 for exams till December 19 released at dda.gov.in: Direct link here

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has released provisional answer keys for exams conducted until December 19, 2025, for positions like MTS. Candidates can download these keys from dda.gov.in to check their responses and raise objections. The final answer key and results are expected soon after the objection period.

Unnao rape victim hopes Supreme Court will deliver justice in Kuldeep Sengar case

The Unnao rape victim expressed hope for justice from the Supreme Court as the CBI challenges the Delhi High Court's decision to suspend Kuldeep Singh Sengar's life sentence. The Supreme Court will hear the CBI's appeal on December 29, following Sengar's conviction in 2019.

Virat Kohli's next match for Delhi in Vijay Hazare Trophy: All you need to know

Virat Kohli made a sensational return to domestic cricket in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 202526, scoring 208 runs in his first two matches for Delhi. He became the fastest to 16,000 List A runs with a century against Andhra and followed it with a half-century and two catches against Gujarat.

Sanya Malhotra and Sunidhi Chauhan set stage on fire at Delhi concert

Sanya Malhotra surprised fans by joining Sunidhi Chauhan on stage in Delhi for a live performance of Aankh. The electrifying collaboration turned the concert into a standout moment of 2025

Indian aviation awaits smoother skies, AI171 crash report in 2026

New Delhi: The Indian aviation will hope for less turbulence and long-term solutions in 2026 after a year of disasters and disruptions that not only snuffed out lives of 260 people but also massively impacted travel plans of thousands of people towards the fag end with IndiGo flight cancellations as well as air traffic control 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 .

Rolls Royce plans major expansion in India

New Delhi: British aero-engine maker Rolls-Royce on Sunday said it is looking at making India its third home market outside of the UK in line with a plan to unlock the full potential of opportunities across an array of domains including jet engine, naval propulsion, land systems and advanced engineering. In an interview to PTI, 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 .

Prez Murmu Embarks On Submarine Sortie at Karwar Naval Base

New Delhi, Dec 28: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday embarked on a submarine sortie at the Karwar naval base in Karnataka, officials said. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi accompanied the President onboard INS Vaghsheer, a Kalvari-class submarine. President Murmu, as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, undertook the sortie as part [] The post Prez Murmu Embarks On Submarine Sortie at Karwar Naval Base appeared first on Northlines .

Unnao rape survivor approaches CBI seeking FIR against IO for colluding with Sengar

New Delhi: The victim of the 2017 Unnao rape case, in which ex-BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar was convicted, has approached the CBI seeking the registration of an FIR against the then-investigating officer for being hand in glove with the former legislator. The woman also claimed that she and her family were facing threats from 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 to hear suo motu case on Aravalli hills on Monday

New Delhi: Amid a row over the definition of Aravalli hills approved by it, the Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the issue and is slated to hear the matter on Monday. As per the cause list, a three-judge bench vacation of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices JK Maheshwari and 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 .

Indian badminton in 2025: Sen, Satwik-Chirag deliver highs as youth offer hope in transition

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: Indian badminton navigated a difficult 2025 marked by injuries and uneven top-level performances, but Lakshya Sens title win, a World Championships medal from Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, and encouraging strides by the next generation offered measured optimism in a transitional season. The year often felt more like one of reassessment than consolidation, with established names struggling for consistency as fitness setbacks disrupted preparation and rhythm across the calendar. Against that backdrop, Sens triumph at the [] The post Indian badminton in 2025: Sen, Satwik-Chirag deliver highs as youth offer hope in transition appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

India's retaliation after Pahalgam instilled fear in Pakistan's leadership; President Zardari advised to take shelter in bunker

President Asif Ali Zardari revealed that during New Delhi's retaliatory strikes in May, his Military Secretary urgently advised him to move to a bunker for safety, highlighting the intense fear gripping Pakistan's top leadership amid the Indian operation.

SC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Aravalli Definition Row, Hearing on Monday

New Delhi, Dec 28: Amid controversy over the definition of the Aravalli hills approved earlier, the Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter and is scheduled to hear it on Monday. As per the cause list, a three-judge vacation bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices J.K. Maheshwari and [] The post SC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Aravalli Definition Row, Hearing on Monday appeared first on Northlines .

Special train for Vaishno Devi devotees makes New Year Darshan easier [details inside]

Railways to run reserved service between New Delhi and Katra from December 27 to January 1 amid expected surge in footfall.

Tariffs, H-1B and Pakistan tensions make 2025 a turbulent year for India-US ties

Bilateral ties between India and the United States saw sharp swings in 2025, as trade disputes, immigration curbs and geopolitical frictions tested the relationship in ways not seen for decades. Punitive and retaliatory tariffs , US claims of mediating tensions between India and Pakistan, and tougher immigration policies -- including mass deportation of Indian nations and curbs on H-1B visas -- strained ties, even as both sides sought to preserve the broader strategic partnership. Yet the year also produced notable highs. Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the United States and his meeting with President Donald Trump, along with the signing of a 10-year defence cooperation framework , were widely viewed as stabilising moments in an otherwise uneven relationship. The year began on a positive note with Modi travelling to Washington in February for his first bilateral meeting with Trump since the US presidents return to office. Modi was only the fourth foreign leader to be received by Trump within weeks of his inauguration as the 47th president, after the leaders of Israel, Japan and Jordan. The meeting underscored the strategic importance both countries attach to their partnership. Trump and Modi announced plans to negotiate the first phase of a multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by the autumn of 2025, with the aim of more than doubling bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. A month earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar sat in the front row inside the US Capitol Rotunda when he attended Trump's inauguration on January 21, representing the Government of India. Hours later, the newly sworn-in Secretary of State Marco Rubio hosted Jaishankar , Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Takeshi Iwaya and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong for the first Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting of the new Trump administration. However, as the months wore on, momentum in the relationship slowed amid growing differences over tariffs and trade. Trump launched global tariff wars in 2025. Heres a recap of his trade actions this year Tariffs and ceasefire In his address to the Joint Session of Congress, Trump criticised India and other countries for the high tariffs they charged on American products, the first of the many statements he made over the course of the year slamming the high levies imposed by India. While Trump described India as a very high tariff nation, members of his administration too did not hold back in their criticism, with his trade adviser Peter Navarro calling India the Maharaja of tariffs. On April 2, which Trump proclaimed as 'Liberation Day', he slapped reciprocal tariffs on countries around the world and announced a 26% discounted reciprocal tariff on New Delhi, which the US president claimed was half of the 52% levies imposed by India on American goods. However, Trump announced on various occasions that a trade deal with India would happen soon. The two nations made significant progress towards a mutually beneficial bilateral trade pact when US Vice President JD Vance visited India and held wide-ranging talks with PM Modi. Vance and Modi announced the Terms of Reference for the bilateral trade agreement between the US and India. It was around the time that Vance was in India that a horrific terror attack took place on April 22 in Pahalgam perpetrated by The Resistance Front, a proxy of Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba, in which 26 civilians were killed. In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor , targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. On May 10, the fourth day of the conflict, Trump suddenly announced on his Truth Social page that the US had brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. And since May 10, Trump has now repeated the claim more than 70 times that he solved the conflict between India and Pakistan and that he used trade to bring the fighting to an end. In June, Modi and Trump were scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the G7 Leaders' Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, but Trump returned to Washington early. The two leaders, however, spoke on June 17, a 35-minute phone call. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that Modi clearly conveyed to Trump that at o point during the days following Operation Sindoor was there any discussion, at any level, on an India-US Trade Deal, or any proposal for a mediation by the US between India and Pakistan. Trump has been critical of India's purchases of Russian oil and, in August, imposed an additional 25% levy on Indian imports, bringing the total tariffs imposed on India to 50% , among the highest in the world. US lawmakers have condemned the tariffs imposed by Trump on India, with Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi saying the levies place an unnecessary strain on Washington's relationship with Delhi. Indian state-backed refinery halts Russian oil amid growing US pressure Mass deportations and H-1B crackdown After Trump took office in January, his administration launched a wide-ranging immigration crackdown, including large-scale deportations of foreign nationals. More than 3,200 Indian nationals were deported, many of whom were reportedly handcuffed and shackled during their journeys. The Trump administration has also intensified its crackdown on immigration, both legal and illegal, imposing new and stringent restrictions on visas such as H-1B , which are used by a large number of Indian professionals to live and work in the US. Describing abuse of the H-1B programme as a national security threat, Trump signed a proclamation imposing a USD 100,000 fee on new H-1B visas, a move that caused widespread panic, confusion and concern among Indian professionals. Later, Trump also appeared to defend the H-1B visa programme, saying America has to bring in talent from around the world as it does not have certain talents in the country. Even as Washington and New Delhi dealt with these complications, there were areas of cooperation between the two sides that stood out this year. Highlighting the strong counter-terrorism cooperation, the US extradited Tahawwur Hussain Rana to India to face justice for his role in planning the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. Further, the US designated The Resistance Front as a foreign terrorist organisation . The two countries also signed a 10-year defence framework pact in October as a signal of growing bilateral strategic ties even as Washington vowed to work closely with New Delhi to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth signed the framework agreement for the 'US-India major defence partnership' pact following their wide-ranging talks in Kuala Lumpur amid efforts by the two sides to repair ties. Despite challenges in bilateral ties, conversations between Trump and Modi underline the strategic importance of the relationship. Modi recently said he had a very warm and engaging conversation with Trump, and they reviewed the progress in bilateral relations and discussed regional and international developments. India and the US will continue to work together for global peace, stability and prosperity, Modi said. Trump, who has described Modi as a great friend of mine and a great Prime Minister, has indicated he could travel to India next year. There is bipartisan consensus in Washington over the strategic and geopolitical importance of strong India-US ties. (With inputs from PTI, AFP and ANI) Trump says he may visit India next year as talks with Modi going good

Tharoor calls for discipline, backs Digvijaya amid RSS praise row; Khera draws hard ideological line

Amid the political row triggered by senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singhs remarks praising the organisational strength of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Thiruvananthapuram MP and Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday came out in support of Singh, stressing the need for discipline and internal reforms within the Congress. Tharoor said discipline was essential for any political party and that the Congress, with its long history, had much to learn from its own past. We have a history of 140 years, and we can learn a lot from it. We can learn from ourselves, too. Discipline is very important in any party, he said. Emphasising organisational strengthening as a shared objective, Tharoor added, Even I want our organisation to strengthen. There should be discipline in our organisation. Digvijaya Singh can speak for himself. Backing Singhs broader argument, Tharoor said the Congress must focus on improving internal discipline and organisational strength to face political challenges more effectively. Asked whether he had spoken to Singh after the controversy, Tharoor said conversations between them were natural. We are friends, and having a conversation is natural. The organisation must be strengthened, there is no question about it, he said. Delhi: On Congress leader Digvijaya Singh praising an RSS photo, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, I also want our organization to become stronger and more resilient from within. But Digvijaya Singh himself can say this too, you can ask him directly... pic.twitter.com/neEHyQ2DTl IANS (@ians_india) December 28, 2025 Singh had triggered the controversy on Saturday after sharing a 1995 photograph showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi seated on the floor near senior BJP leader L K Advani. In his post, Singh said the image reflected how grassroots workers in the RSS and the BJP could rise to top positions, describing it as the power of organisation. Though he later clarified that he remained a strong opponent of the RSS and the BJP, the post drew sharp reactions within the party. In contrast to Tharoors remarks, Congress Media and Publicity Department chairman Pawan Khera took a hard line against Singhs comments, saying there was nothing to learn from the RSS. Taking a sharp swipe, Khera linked the RSS to Nathuram Godse, who assassinated Mahatma Gandhi. Theres nothing to learn from the RSS. What can an organisation known for Godse teach an organisation founded by Gandhi? Khera said, underlining the ideological divide within the party over Singhs remarks. Congress leader Sachin Pilot also reiterated on Sunday that the opposition party is united, but everyone has the right to their own opinion, in response to Digvijaya Singh's remarks. Speaking to the media, the former Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister shared his stance on the Digvijay Singh matter regarding the RSS and PM Modi. He dispelled rumours of an internal ideological rift within the Congress. To explain the situation, he said, Congress party is united. The country needs a strong opposition. Our intention is to strengthen the organisation. In our party, we have the right to speak about our thoughts. He added that Digvijaya Singh said what he wanted, but the encompassing goal of every Congress member is to strengthen the opposition leaders. He said whatever he had to, and after that, he also gave his clarification. All the Congress leaders have only one goal to strengthen Kharge and Rahul ji, added Pilot. Digvijay's RSS praise: Remark open dissent to Rahul Gandhi, says BJP

How the Aravalli Hills formed and why they look the way they do

The Hills features are better understood as part of a belt of ancient rocks that many scholars have called the Aravalli-Delhi orogenic belt

Watch: Men in high-speed cars perform deadly stunts; Delhi Police responds

A group of men was captured on video performing reckless stunts and high-speed racing on Delhi streets, swerving through traffic and standing out of car sunroofs. The footage, shared widely on social media, prompted a response from Delhi Police, who have been informed and are verifying the video to identify the individuals involved.

India's impact was visible everywhere in 2025: PM Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said 2025 was a year of proud milestones for India in the field of national security, sports and scientific innovation, with the country's impact visible everywhere. Addressing his monthly 'Mann Ki Baat' address, Modi also spoke about Operation Sindoor under which Indian armed forces destroyed terror infrastructure and security bases in Pakistan. 2025 was a year of proud milestones for India. Whether in national security, sports, scientific innovation or on the world's biggest platforms, India's impact was visible everywhere, he said. The prime minister also noted that 2025 has truly been a memorable year for sports with the men's cricket team clinching the ICC Champions Trophy and the women's cricket team winning the World Cup for the first time. Besides, India's daughters scripted history by winning the Women's Blind T20 World Cup. The tricolour flew high with pride after a dominant victory in the Asia Cup T20 and para-athletes brought home a haul of medals at the World Championships, he said. Modi also said that India has taken a giant leap in the field of science and space, and Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station.

President Murmu Embarks On Submarine Sortie At Karwar Naval Base

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday embarked on a submarine sortie at the Karwar naval base in Karnataka, officials said. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi accompanied the President onboard INS Vaghsheer, a Kalvari class submarine. The President is also the Supreme Commander of the armed forces. This maiden sortie onboard a Kalvari Class Submarine by President Murmu is the second by a President. APJ Abdul Kalam was the first president to undertake a [] The post President Murmu Embarks On Submarine Sortie At Karwar Naval Base appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Todays India Does Not Compromise On Security: PM Modi Hails Op Sindoor In Mann Ki Baat

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed Operation Sindoor in the 129th episode of Mann Ki Baat, saying that todays India does not compromise on its security. Addressing the nation in his radio show, PM Modi said that pictures of love and devotion towards the country emerged from all across the country. Acknowledging the nations achievements in 2025, the Prime Minister said, 2025 gave many moments that made every Indian proud. From national security to sports, [] The post Todays India Does Not Compromise On Security: PM Modi Hails Op Sindoor In Mann Ki Baat appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Odisha, Delhi join AB-PMJAY, robust growth in digital healthcare delivery in 2025; AI next frontier

In 2025, India expanded Ayushman Bharat to Odisha and Delhi, boosting digital health with eSanjeevani's 43.2 crore tele-consultations. The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission saw 84.35 crore health accounts created. Progress in TB elimination was globally recognized, with a 21% incidence decline and AI integration strengthening public health delivery.

Adani plans Rs 1.8 lakh cr defence spend to boost indigenous military capabilities

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: Adani Group plans to invest Rs 1.8 lakh crore next year in defence manufacturing, with a focus on strengthening capabilities in unmanned and autonomous systems as well as advanced guided weapons as it looks to play a stealth anchor role in Indias future warfare capabilities, sources said. Adani Defence & Aerospace in 2025 transitioned from extended planning cycles to rapid deployment with some of its military hardware being used in Operation Sindoor. Next year, it [] The post Adani plans Rs 1.8 lakh cr defence spend to boost indigenous military capabilities appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

CERC mulls moderation in power trading fee to ease electricity prices

NEW DELHI, Dec 28:Power regulator Central Electricity Regulatory Commission is considering rationalising transaction fees on power trading exchanges, which aims to potentially lower electricity prices as the power sector gears up for market coupling. The development came as the power regulator moves ahead with market coupling, a reform expected to improve efficiency, deepen liquidity and promote price convergence across exchanges. The move could lead to a reduction in the overall cost of power for buyers over a period of [] The post CERC mulls moderation in power trading fee to ease electricity prices appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Fittr moving towards preventive healthcare ecosystem, to set up diagnostic labs: CEO Chouksey

NEW DELHI, Dec 28: Fitness firm Fittr is moving towards providing a holistic preventive healthcare service, combining diagnostics with doctor consultations, to target non-communicable diseases, according to its founder and CEO Jitendra Chouksey. The firm has earmarked investment of up to Rs 15 crore to set up company-owned diagnostic laboratories in five metro cities, while also collaborating with partners to expand its lab network to 5,000 pin codes across India, Chouksey told PTI. We are moving towards a preventive [] The post Fittr moving towards preventive healthcare ecosystem, to set up diagnostic labs: CEO Chouksey appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Delhi-NCR pollution: Air Quality Commission inspects 125 road stretches in Gurugram, gives advisory to civic body, data reveals...

As Delhi-NCR is reeling under the thick blanket of smog and severe category of air, the regional drive to control air pollution is seeing major operations. Now, the CAQM conducted a large-scale inspection of roads in Gurugram and found flaws in the implementation by the civic body.

Video Shows Men Performing Reckless Car Stunts, Racing Through Delhi Roads

Men were filmed performing dangerous stunts and racing cars on Delhi roads, sparking safety concerns. Police traced violators and warned strict action after similar incidents.

10 goods train wagons derail in Bihars Jamui, rail traffic hit on HowrahPatnaDelhi route

PATNA: Train services on the JhajhaJasidih railway section were disrupted around midnight after a freight train derailed near Telwa Bazar Halt in Bihars Jamui district, with around 10 wagons falling off the bridge and operations of 34 pairs of express trains affected. According to railway sources, the wagons jumped off the tracks between Lahaban and Simultala stations of the Asansol division under Eastern Railway. The derailment disrupted train operations on both the Up and Down lines of this section. After receiving information about the incident, Accident Relief Trains (ARTs) from Asansol, Madhupur and Jhajha were rushed to the site, and restoration work was taken up on a war footing. The goods train was travelling from Jasidih to Jhajha when the wagons suddenly derailed with a loud noise. The train was carrying a large quantity of cement bags, which were scattered across the bridge and the surrounding area after the derailment. Several passenger and goods trains running on the KiulJasidih railway section were stopped at different stations. There were no reports of any casualties in the accident, sources said. Railway officials said restoration work has begun. However, several express and passenger trains on this route may be cancelled, while many others are likely to be diverted over the next two days. Passenger train services originating from Jhajha station are expected to operate as scheduled.

Video Shows Reckless Car Stunts In Delhi, Cops Respond

The video showed several men in four cars performing dangerous stunts, including standing out of sunroofs and screaming as the vehicles sped past.

Bihar: 8 wagons of goods train derail, disrupt HowrahPatnaDelhi rail route; restoration work underway

Rail traffic on the crucial HowrahPatnaDelhi route faced significant disruption late Saturday night after eight wagons of a goods train derailed in Bihar's Jamui district. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The incident, occurring between Lahabon and Simultala stations, affected approximately two dozen trains overnight. Restoration efforts are currently underway.

Dense smog engulfs Delhi as air quality remains in severe category

Thick smog combined with fog trapped pollutants near the surface, reducing visibility and disrupting daily life as residents woke up to chilly conditions

Delhi breaths 'very poor' air; minimum temperature 6.3 Celsius

Anand Vihar recorded the highest reading of 444, while the remaining recorded very poor levels

Dense fog, cold wave and hazardous smog grip north India

North India woke up to a chilly Sunday, with dense fog and cold wave conditions affecting daily life across the region. In the national capital, temperatures dropped to 9C, while thick smog reduced visibility, prompting health advisories for residents. Despite the weather, services at Indira Gandhi International Airport remained unaffected as of 8 pm, according to a travel advisory. Other cities, including Karnal (Haryana) and Moradabad (Uttar Pradesh), recorded similar conditions with temperatures hovering around 9C. IMD issued an orange alert for Moradabad. Agras Taj Mahal was obscured by dense fog, while Kanpur residents huddled around bonfires to keep warm. In Guwahati, Assam, the minimum temperature fell to 15C under foggy, cold-wave conditions. The air quality in Delhi worsened, with the AQI reaching 391, entering the severe category, and some localities crossing 400. Anand Vihar recorded 445, Patparganj 425, Nehru Nagar 433, Shadipur 445, Mundka 413, and IGI Airport 320. The combination of cold weather, calm winds, and fog trapped pollutants, resulting in dense haze and smog across the city. Authorities have invoked Stage IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan, including restrictions on construction and industrial activity, while enforcing the No PUC, No Fuel rule. In response, the Delhi Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, approved a series of measures to improve environmental governance. Rs 100 crore will be allocated to rejuvenate 160 government-managed water bodies out of the 1,000 in the capital, aimed at pollution control. The government also approved the creation of Delhis first E-Waste Park at Holambi Kalan, spanning 11.5 acres, to operate on a 100% circular, zero-waste model. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated, Rejuvenation of Delhis water bodies will play a crucial role in controlling pollution. The Chief Minister has directed that every possible support be provided to complete the work within the year. Meanwhile, in Mumbai, a thin layer of smog covered areas like Bandra Kurla Complex, with AQI recorded at 123 (moderate), highlighting that pollution continues to affect multiple urban centres across India. (With inputs from ANI)

Dense Smog In Delhi As Air Quality Nears 'Severe' Category

The air quality in the national capital remains hazardous, affecting people's health. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi on Sunday reached 391, entering the severe category, with some regions exceeding 400, according to the CPCB.

Jaipur Diary: Hard launch of junior Pilot Aarav at Save Aravallis rally?

Dhankhar makes quiet appearance in Jaipur Former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhars quiet return to Jaipur on Thursday set political circles abuzz. On a one-day visithis first since stepping down as the Vice-PresidentDhankhar briefly interacted with the media, sharing warm memories of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Away from the spotlight for several months, Dhankhar chose to keep it low-key, having lunch with family at his brother Randeep Dhankhars residence before meeting a senior Vishva Hindu Parishad leader. By the evening, he quietly drove back to Delhi. Notably, Dhankhar had largely vanished from public view after his sudden resignation in July. Hard launch of junior Pilot Aarav at rally? The Congress has seized the row over the Aravallis to train guns on the BJP. State president Govind Singh Dotasra and Leader of the Opposition Tikaram Jully have led protests in Jaipur and Alwar, while former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has kept the issue alive on social media. But it was AICC General Secretary Sachin Pilots teenage son Aarav Pilots presence at an NSUI rally in Jaipur to save the Aravallis that has got tongues wagging. Political observers are seeing the fresh-faced boys appearance at the event as a symbolic launch, reading it as Pilots bid to project himself as a seasoned leader with a long-term vision. Social media storm over reel star IAS officer Barmer district collector Tina Dabi is back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Some students taking part in a protest at a girls postgraduate college faced police action for allegedly calling her a reel star, sparking political chatter and online furore. Dabi, however, dismissed the drama in a written statement to a private channel, calling it an attempt to defame me and gain cheap popularity on social media. Known for her academic brilliance and penchant for making reels, Dabi frequently finds herself in the headlines. Now, the debate has shifted to whether administrative officers should face restrictions on creating reels. Rajesh Asnani Our correspondent in Jaipur rajesh.asnani@newindianexpress.com

Dense Smog Engulfs Delhi as Air Quality Remains Hazardous

Thick smog and fog have trapped pollutants, reducing visibility and disrupting daily life as residents grappled with the morning chill

Air India Express' first line fit B737-8 MAX plane to land in Delhi on Dec 29

Air India Express will receive its first Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft, which marks the first all-new plane for the Air India Group since the Tata takeover. The aircraft features a special livery honoring Ratan Naval Tata. Air India Express has now surpassed 100 aircraft in its fleet. This development signifies a significant expansion for the airline.

Kuldeep Sengar: Power lord from the hinterland reemerges

Indian judiciary has an image to protect. When a victim becomes helpless and sees other pillars of democracy crumbling, she looks up to the exalted benches with hope for justice. The last refuge of the powerless can also deliver irony in the winter chill of the national capital, especially when the perpetrator is a man of brute, feudal and political power, that runs amok naked in the wild fields. In offering reprieve to Kuldeep Singh Sengar, former BJP MLA and convict of rape and murder, the Delhi High Court climbed down from the height the lady of justice sits. Even without a seat in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Sengar is powerful enough to scare the rape survivor and drive a nations conscience towards an agitation it would have preferred to avoid. The rape survivor, her mother, and activists sat on dharnas wherever they could, including outside the court premises. They could do so because, in a twist of unfortunate irony, Sengar is no ordinary one-issue convict. He got bail from the HC in the rape case, but will stay in jail, as he is serving another 10-year sentence for plotting the murder of the rape survivors father. He could walk out of jailan unimaginable scenario for the survivorif judiciary continues with its magnanimous streak towards the powerful and grants him bail in that case too. Senger is a quintessential north Indian politician of the hinterlands. Not suave, not a man of letters, not bothered about legal fine-print, not concerned about Article 21 of the Constitution: just a man surrounded by musclemen and a caravan of vehicles with red beacons. He might have considered himself an invincible frog in the small well of Unnao constitutency, something that led him to violate the 16-year-old survivor. Who can forget the April forenoon of 2018, when the minor survivor tried to immolate herself outside the heavily guarded residence of the chief minister in Lucknow in a desperate act to push the state government towards acknowledging her plight. The minor claimed that Sengar, the powerful BJP MLA of Bangarmau in Unnao, had raped her the previous year. She also accused the system of shielding him. When the media woke up to her tragedy, Sengars power was briefly curtailed. He was arrested and sent to jail, but he was still the power lord. He plotted an assault on the survivors father in custody as the father was picked by cops after getting implicated in a case of brawl with Sengars men. The father was being allegedly coerced by Unnao cops to ask his daughter to withdraw charges against Senger. The public outcry ensured that justice was delivered to the survivor. Politicians also joined in. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra led a sustained campaign against him. The political pressure clipped his wings, as he was expelled from BJP. A POCSO court sentenced him to life in December 2019 and ordered him to pay `25 lakh as compensation to the survivor. But before he was delivered justice, Sengar, allegedly, had another shot at lawlessness. On July 28, 2019, the survivor was travelling in car with others which was rammed into by a truck without a registration number plate. The survivor became doubly survived in the accident. She emerged out of this episode critically injured, like her lawyer, but lost two aunts, all of whom were travelling in the same car. The police made Sengar, his brother, and few aides accused in the case. When Sengar was eventually convicted in the rape case, the nation heaved a sigh of relief, believing that he was done for life and an example had been set for the brute, unbridled power of the hinterland. But, his bail a few days back has brought back a sense of doom and fear of naked power. Under public pressure, the CBI has decided to appeal against the HC order in the Supreme Court. But, will the power be fettered at the highest level? We feel that the CBI has approached SC just for saving its face and to douse down the public anger against Delhi High Court order, says the survivors counsel Mehmood Pracha. This is Sengars relevance in the Indian milieu!

Digvijay's RSS praise: Remark open dissent to Rahul Gandhi, says BJP

NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday responded to a social media post of Congress leader Digvijay Singh that featured a photograph showing Narendra Modi sitting on the floor near senior party leaders, saying the image reflected BJPs working culture. Ahead of Saturdays Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, the Congress leader triggered a political stir by praising the organisational strength of the BJP and its ideological mentor, the RSS. Sharing an old photograph of PM Narendra Modi on social media, Singh highlighted how grassroots workers rose through the ranks to become Chief Minister and Prime Minister, calling it the power of the organisation. At the CWC meeting, Singh reportedly stressed the urgent need to strengthen the Congress at the grassroots, pointing out that while District Congress Committees exist on paper in Madhya Pradesh, the party lacked an active workforce. In response, Congress general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal said state leaders also needed to play their part, while Singh acknowledged the point. Singhs post, which tagged the official Congress handle along with party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi, caused a flutter among leaders. Several insiders said they supported his call for organisational reform. Afterwards, Singh clarified on social media that his remarks were only about organisational strength and not an endorsement of the BJP or RSS. You people have misunderstood things. I am a staunch opponent of the BJP and the RSS, he wrote, adding, I said whatever I wanted to. BJP Rajya Sabha MP and national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi said, This is a symbol of the working style of BJP, how a person connected to the ground can reach the top with talent, capability and the support of the organisation. Referring to the photograph, Trivedi said, This is a well-known photograph in which Advani ji is sitting on the chair, and PM Modi, who was a young Karyakarta at that time, is sitting on the floor. He added that Digvijay Singh is a very senior leader and has been observing politics for a long time, suggesting that he might have realised this fact. Taking a swipe at Congress party culture, Trivedi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is Gudri ke Lal, while the Congress leadership is described as Jawahar ke Lal, and both cannot be compared. The Congress leadership have brought their party to an upside-down state, while our Prime Minister rose from the bottom to the top and is taking the party to the top as well, he said. Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Trivedi said that Digvijay Singh had questioned Gandhis understanding. Congress is struggling without power and after 2024 this struggle has turned into desperation and agony, he added. BJP national spokesperson, Shehzad Poonawalla also mocked Rahul Gandhi, saying, now even people from the party and family are expressing no-confidence against Rahul Gandhi.

Thin layer of smog covers Mumbai's Bandra as AQI hits 123

Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex experienced a moderate smog layer with an AQI of 123. Meanwhile, Delhi grappled with hazardous air quality, reaching a severe 391, with several areas exceeding 400. Cold weather and calm winds are trapping pollutants, causing widespread haze. Authorities are implementing measures like 'No PUC, No Fuel' and Stage IV GRAP actions to combat the worsening air.

Bengaluru hospitals see increase in flu symptoms

BENGALURU: Bengaluru is witnessing a noticeable surge in seasonal influenza and other respiratory infections as the city heads into the year-end, with doctors reporting a sharp rise in patients presenting with flu-like symptoms. There has been nearly a five-fold increase in outpatient visits for respiratory symptoms over the last few weeks, said Dr Sachin Kumar, director of Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine at Sakra World Hospital. He said the current trend is being closely monitored due to the rapid spread of the H3N2 strain. He added that hospitals are also seeing a significant rise in paediatric cases, with many children reporting symptoms. Around 2030% of our outpatient visits are currently due to influenza-like illness, said Dr Koushik N, senior specialist Pulmonologist at Aster RV Hospital. While most cases remain mild and resolve within three to five days, he said elderly patients, immunocompromised individuals and those with comorbidities face a higher risk of complications, including pneumonia. We are currently seeing around 20 cases of viral influenza and other infections, with H3N2 being the more common variant, said Dr Mahesh Kumar JM, internal medicine specialist at KIMS Hospital. Cold weather, year-end travel and crowding were contributing factors, he said. The increase comes even as the Health Department has issued an advisory warning of a likely rise in influenza cases between January and March. With people moving between cities such as Bengaluru, Delhi, Kerala, Chennai and other destinations, infections are being carried from one region to another and spreading rapidly after return. Emergency departments are also reporting a steady inflow of patients. We are seeing patients almost every day with fever, cough and cold, with multiple influenza variants, said Dr Sruthi Bhaskaran, Head of Emergency Medicine at Vasavi Hospitals. Dos 1. Elderly should take influenza vaccination 2. Wear masks during travelling 3. Early consultation if symptoms persist