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Pay, policy and pressure Why Indian doctors are quitting the UK
New Delhi: Among the shared history, food, and architecture, India and the United Kingdom are also connected through a deeply immersed force of healthcare professionals. But what was once considered a deliberate choice of destination a place to build a home away from home no longer remains the same for Indians, especially for Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
SIR in Madhya Pradesh: Draft electoral roll to be published by ECI on Monday
New Delhi: After more than one-and-a-half month of door-to-door Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Madhya Pradesh, the Election Commission of India (ECI) will release the draft electoral roll of voters for the state on Tuesday. The official sources in the Chief Electoral Office (CEO) in Madhya Pradesh told IANS that, preliminary assessment suggesting that 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 .
Replacing MGNREGA is 'historic mistake': Sachin Pilot
BENGALURU : AICC general secretary Sachin Pilot on Monday termed the central government replacing the rural employment law MGNREGA, as a historic mistake and a systematic attack on the livelihood chances of those amongst us, who have the least. The former Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister also accused the ruling BJP at the Centre of constantly fueling political vendetta by falsely framing Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case. The government of India has made a historic mistake. For the first time in history, since we got independence, a scheme or programme launched after the name of the father of the nation has been changed. The government has single handedly destroyed the only financial safety net rural India had through an erstwhile programme called MGNREGA, Pilot said. Speaking to reporters here, he said, MGNREGA has been repealed without any discussion with state governments, stakeholders, civil society. The parliament was used to display the rute force of the majority, to push through legislation. The new legislation is a systematic attack on the livelihood chances of those amongst us who have the least, he said, adding that Look at the bill that was passed. Earlier (MGNREGA) was a demand driven scheme. Now it is overly centralised. The government of India will decide what works have to be done at what point. While we (through MGNREGA) had empowered the Gram Sabhas. The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM G) Bill, 2025, that replaced the rural employment law Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), was cleared by the Parliament, amid strong objections by the opposition to the emoval of Mahatma Gandhi's name from it. President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the Bill on December 21, with which it is now an Act. Noting that the ratio earlier was 90 per cent funds were given by the Government of India and 10 per cent by the state governments, the former union minister said, by making it 60:40 the entire burden of the rural expenditure on livelihood has been pushed on the state government. The replacement of MGNREGA is a solid example of how this government worked against the interest of those who are the most marginalised, he alleged. The civil society and all stakeholders have universally condemned this move. This was unwarranted and the Congress party has taken a very strong view on how to oppose this. The Congress Working Committee is meeting on December 27 in New Delhi. We will discuss how to take this forward. The INDI Alliance bloc stands united on this issue. We will put all the pressure possible to make sure the government rolls back this bill, he added. Accusing the BJP of fueling political vendetta since it came to power in 2014, by falsely framing Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul in the National Herald case, Pilot said, the court has said that it will not take cognisance of the case that was filed by the ED. The court order makes it clear that the case was politically motivated. We stand vindicated, he said. A court in Delhi recently refused to take cognisance of the Enforcement Directorate's money laundering charge against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul, and five others in the National Herald case. Modi, Shah must resign: Kharge on court refusal to take cognisance of ED complaint in National Herald case
Congress meet on Dec 27 to decide on new rural employment scheme
PUDUCHERRY: All India Congress Committee (AICC) spokesperson Kannan Gopinathan announced on Monday that the Congress Working Committee (CWC) will meet on December 27 to decide on the party's course of action over the centres new rural employment Act. Addressing reporters at the Puducherry Congress office, Gopinathan criticised the BJP-led coalition government at the centre for introducing a bill to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) with a new programme titled the Viksit BharatGuarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VBG RAM G). He claimed that the removal of Mahatma Gandhis name undermines the spirit and legacy of the original scheme introduced during the Congress regime. The new funding patternunder which the centre would contribute 60 per cent of the funds while states would bear the remaining 40 per centwould place an additional financial burden on state governments, he said, adding that the changes dilute MGNREGS' objective of safeguarding employment rights of vulnerable sections, including women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Gopinathan also welcomed the dismissal of the Enforcement Directorates chargesheet in the National Herald case by a Delhi court, stating that the order vindicates Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. He alleged that the cases were politically motivated and filed to target leaders who have consistently opposed the central government's policies. The press interaction was attended by Puducherry State Congress president and Lok Sabha member V Vaithilingam, former chief minister V Narayanasamy, MLA M Vaidyanathan, Congress coordinator Devadas, former ministers M Kandasamy and MOHF Shahjahan, former government whip RKR Anantharaman, and other party leaders.
IndiGos Turkey lease extension ends March 2026, No more extensions
New Delhi: IndiGo has been allowed to operate five narrow body planes leased from Turkey only till March 2026 and no further extension will be given, according to aviation regulator DGCA. The watchdog on Monday provided a clarification about the lease duration for aircraft taken by IndiGo from Turkey amid speculations that the airline 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 .
Thick Smog Engulfs Delhi, Air Quality Slips To 'Severe' Category; Dwarka Among Worst Hit
Delhiites woke up to toxic smog and severe AQI of 408, with Dwarka at 435. Poor visibility disrupted flights at IGI Airport as cold, foggy conditions worsened pollution.
Bangladesh suspends visa services in New Delhi, Tripura amid protest
New Delhi: Bangladesh has suspended visa services in its high commission in New Delhi and its mission in Tripura amid mounting strain in ties between the two countries. The decision to suspend the visa services was taken after groups of protesters held demonstrations outside the two missions, people familiar with the matter said. The Bangladesh 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 .
Dense fog has enveloped Delhi, prompting Indira Gandhi International Airport to issue a passenger advisory. Flight operations are currently under CAT III conditions, signalling potential delays and disruptions. This severe weather has already caused widespread cancellations and delays across road, rail, and air travel for days. Passengers are urged to check with their airlines for the latest flight status.
West, India handed over production to China: Rahul Gandhi in Germany
Rahul Gandhi Germany tour: The Congress leader flagged Made in China goods selling in India, and said that New Delhi has capability, cost structure and population to produce goods but has not done it yet.
'Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri' off to Rs 61 lakh start
Advance bookings for Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday's 'Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri' have commenced modestly, with net collections reaching Rs 61 lakh for Day 1. Maharashtra leads sales, followed by Delhi and Madhya Pradesh. Industry trackers anticipate a surge closer to the Christmas Day release, leveraging the holiday period for stronger walk-ins.
The lowest AQI levels, still in the very poor range, were recorded at Shadipur (309), IHBAS-Dilshad Garden (336), Aya Nagar (367), Lodhi Road-IITM (368), Lodhi Road-IMD (374), and IGI Airport-T3 (379). Read here to know area-wise pollution levels
127 sensitive areas prone to wildlife fatalities in focus of rlys, forest dept
NEW DELHI: Alarmed by the frequent incidents of elephants and other wildlife being hit or run over by trains, the Ministry of Railways, in coordination with the Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate Change and other institutions, has identified 127 railway stretches passing through forest areas as sensitive to wildlife fatalities. Of these, 110 stretches fall within elephant distribution ranges, while 17 are located in two tiger range areas. An official said that a comprehensive joint survey was also conducted to assess critical railway stretches where elephant and wildlife-train collisions have been reported frequently. The 127 sensitive railway stretches 110 in elephant range areas and 17 in tiger range areas together cover 3,452.4 km of railway track. Following this identification, several measures have been adopted to prevent collisions between trains and wildlife on railway tracks. The Railways on Monday stated that works such as fencing along railway tracks passing through forest areas with frequent movement of elephants and other wildlife have been undertaken. Installation of AI-enabled devices to prevent elephants and other animals from coming close to railway tracks has also been initiated. According to a railway official, one of the innovative measures taken is the development of an AI-enabled Intrusion Detection System (IDS) to detect the presence of elephants on railway tracks using Distributed Acoustic Sensors (DAS). He told this newspaper that the IDS system is currently operational over 141 route kilometres at critical and vulnerable locations identified by the forest department, particularly under the Northeast Frontier Railway. Elaborating further, the official said that IDS works have been sanctioned for identified corridors covering a total length of 1,158 route kilometres at a total cost of `208 crore. These works cover NFR, ECOR, SR, NR, SER, NER, WR and ECR. Installation of the system is currently in progress over ECOR (349.4 route kilometres), SR (55.85 route kilometres) and NER (36 route kilometres).
CJI asks lawyers to approach SC registry for urgent hearing of cases
NEW DELHI: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Monday asked the lawyers to approach the Supreme Court Registry for urgent hearing. The Registry will scrutinise the reasons cited and list matters accordingly, he added. CJI Kant made the observations while presiding over a special vacation bench along Justice Joymalya Bagchi to hear matters that required immediate judicial intervention. As the bench commenced hearing, several lawyers started mentioning cases for urgent hearing, prompting the CJI to clarify the procedure. We will scrutinise the reasons and list the matter accordingly, the SC said, adding that the special vacation bench was sitiing keeping in view of the urgency in the matters which needed immediate hearing. The court is currently observing its winter from December 20 to January 4. A three-judge bench led by CJI Kant, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi, was hearing listing of urgent matters. We will sit on Monday to hear the urgency in matters, the CJI said. He had also made it clear that the decision on whether one or more bench would sit on December 22, would depend on the number of genuinely urgent matters received. Also in top court Maha ex-minister conviction stayed The Supreme Court on Monday stayed conviction of former Maharashtra minister Manikrao Kokate in a cheating and forgery case. A vacation bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi issued notice to the Maharashtra government on Kokates plea and said thath e will not be disqualified as an MLA. Plea against PM offering Chadar A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking directions to restrain Prime Minister Narendra Modi from offering a ceremonial chadar at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The matter was mentioned before a vacation bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi. No listing today, the bench of the SC said.
What ails Ayush institutions? 45% vacant posts
NEW DELHI: Responding to questions raise in Parliament the Ministry replied that Indias AYUSH sector, the government arm for traditional and alternative medicine, is running with nearly half of its posts unfilled across key national institutes. Of 5,553 sanctioned posts at 19 autonomous bodies, about 2,512 are vacant and only 3,041 are currently filled, leaving a vacancy rate of roughly 45 per cent nationwide, the Ministry of AYUSH told Parliament on 5 December 2025. The Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfares 165th Report, published by the Rajya Sabha Secretariat on 12 March 2025 and laid before the Lok Sabha the same day, had earlier highlighted thousands of unfilled positions across research, academic, technical and paramedical cadres in AYUSH bodies. The largest research body, the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) in New Delhi, has the most unfilled posts with 903 vacancies out of 1,708 sanctioned, meaning less than half the positions are occupied. Other research councils and institutes show similar shortfalls. The Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) in Jamnagar is operating with nearly 60 per cent of its posts vacant, while the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi has close to 193 unfilled positions. In the North-East, the North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Folk Medicine Research (NEIAFMR) at Pasighat has 76 out of 90 posts vacant and the North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda and Homoeopathy (NEIAH) in Shillong is short-staffed by more than a third. The ministry noted that autonomous bodies follow their own recruitment rules and procedures and have been filling gaps temporarily by hiring contractual staff. The absence of a central time-bound plan for regular recruitment was evident in the reply. Experts outside Parliament have also pointed to serious staff deficits in autonomous government health bodies in India, including AYUSH, with shortages affecting operations and service delivery. Separation between policy framing at the centre and implementation at institute level has been flagged in media reports.
Nitish along with Lalan and Samrat meet Modi in Delhi
PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah on the second day of his two-day visit to New Delhi. Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary and Union minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lallan Singh were also present. This was Nitishs first meeting with the Prime Minister in New Delhi after the Bihar assembly elections. NDA leaders, however, dismissed the Congress charge, calling it a courtesy meeting. Bihar Congress on Monday took a swipe at Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, alleging that the talks were aimed at manipulating upcoming elections. The Bihar Congress president Rajesh Ram has also alleged, Now top leaders of the ruling alliance are holding meetings to chalk out strategies to rig the coming elections, including Rajya Sabha and state legislative council. The party sources said discussions focused on Bihars development, coordination between the Centre and the state, Rajya Sabha elections due in April next year, cabinet expansion, and legislative council elections.
Delhi chokes under smog: AQI hits severe level at 414; flights, trains delayed as visibility dips
Delhi grappled with severe smog, air quality hitting 'severe' levels with AQI at 414. Authorities invoked GRAP-4, deploying water sprinklers to combat pollution. Dense fog disrupted flights and trains across northern plains. While some improvement is expected, air quality may remain poor. Temperatures are set to plummet.
Delhi Dialogues | Highways function as economic corridor
East Delhi BJP MP Harsh Malhotra speaks to editors of TNIE about the pace of road infrastructure expansion in the country. The Union MoS of Road Transport, Highways and Corporate Affairs answers a range of questions uppermost in peoples minds. Excerpts: We always hear that there are a lot of initiatives to improve quality of road matching international standards. How much success have we achieved? The progress achieved over the past decade represents a structural shift rather than incremental change. For nearly 65 years after Independence, India built around 92,000km of national highways. In contrast, over the last 11 years, the national highway network has expanded to approximately 1.46 lakh km, significantly improving connectivity across regions, including some of the countrys most remote areas. The transformation is not limited to length alone but also to pace and quality. Before 2014, highway construction progressed at an average speed of about 12 km a day. Today, that figure stands at nearly 32 km per day. At the same time, systematic widening has upgraded two-lane roads to four-lane roads and four-lane highways to six-lane highways, improving safety, speed, and capacity. The length of high-speed corridors has increased to around 2,500 km of expressways. How has the governments focus on road connectivity, especially in Northeast, boosted economic growth, employment, and rural market access? Special emphasis has been placed on Northeast, a region historically underserved by infrastructure. The expansion of railways to the farthest corners and the development of the Frontier Highway, connecting Manipur to Moreh on the Myanmar border, reflect this renewed focus. Beyond connectivity, every rupee invested in highways generates nearly three rupees in GDP, making roads one of the most powerful drivers of economic growth. In the last five years, road construction has created 550 crore man-days of employment, including direct, indirect and induced jobs. Rural connectivity has been transformative. Nearly 65% of population still lives in villages, many of which produce perishable goods. Earlier, poor roads meant that milk, fruits, and vegetables took 14-16 hours to reach markets, often resulting in spoilage and low returns. Through the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, over 7 lakh km of rural roads have been built in the last 11 years, compared to 3.5 lakh km in the previous 65 years. As a result, no village is now more than 100 km away from a major road, and farm produce can reach markets within 3-4 hours. Highways today function as economic corridors. Industrial zones, markets, ports, and railways are increasingly integrated with road networks, creating transport hubs that improve logistics and reduce costs. What is the rate of road accidents? This is a big concern. How can we make road travel safe? Road safety remains a major concern, with speeding the leading cause of accidents. We have a multi-layered strategy: eliminating accident-prone dark spots, deploying AI in highway design, and integrating smart traffic management systems. More than 14,000 dark spots, defined as locations with 10 or more fatalities annually, have been corrected. Emergency response has expanded. A 247 helpline, over 4,000 ambulances on national highways, and free treatment up to `1.5 lakh for accident victims aim to reduce fatalities. While you are expanding expressways and generating revenue, what steps are being taken to improve roadside amenities? Modern highways must serve people, not just vehicles. Wayside amenities at 90-km intervals now include fuel stations, EV charging stations, toilets, food courts, truck driver dormitories, and bathing facilities. These are long-term leases. Maintenance and cleanliness are built into the model. For transporters, reduced travel time translates directly into profit. The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will cut travel from 34 hours to 13-14 hours. When fuel is saved, pollution is reduced and productivity is doubled. Apple has challenged a penalty imposed by the Competition Commission of India (CCI). What is the status of the digital competition framework? The CCI will prevent monopolisation. A separate digital competition framework is under consultation, with a deeper study underway to ensure robustness. I emphasise regulatory simplification. The MCA portal, launched in 2017, reduced the time to company incorporation from up to 100 days to under 48 hours. Eleven mandatory registrations are now bundled, enabling companies to operate immediately. Voluntary strike-off processes have been automated, with fixed timelines and deemed approvals. A single-window system now integrates clearances across ministries and states.
Swiggy Instamart's 2025 report reveals diverse quick commerce usage, from Rs 10 printouts to Rs 4.3 lakh iPhones, with a top spender reaching Rs 22 lakh. Tier-II cities like Rajkot saw significant order growth, while daily essentials like curry leaves and eggs were frequently reordered. Mondays emerged as popular gifting days, and a Bengaluru customer tipped Rs 68,600.
Bangladesh unrest LIVE: High Commission in Delhi stops visa services citing security situation
BJP's Suvendu Adhikari and Congress leaders stage protests outside Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata against the alleged attack on Hindus
Sonia, Rahul told to reply on ED plea in National Herald case
NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court sought response from Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi on Monday in the National Herald case. The order came on a plea filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which challenged a lower court order refusing to take cognisance of the agency charge sheet filed against the Gandhis and others. A bench of Justice Ravinder Dudeja issued notice to the Gandhis and other respondents, directing them to file their response by March 12, when the court will next hear the matter. During a brief hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that the trial court erred in choosing to not take cognisance in the matter. The trial court had already taken cognisance of [Subramanian] Swamys complaint, based on which the ED lodged its case. This matter needs to be heard The entire PMLA is turned on its head, Mehta argued. A city court on December 16 had refused to take cognisance of the chargesheet, saying the prosecution complaint (the EDs equivalent to a chargesheet) filed under the PMLA was not maintainable since the case was not lodged on the basis of an FIR filed by any investigative agency. The court had ruled that the ED could initiate a money-laundering case only based on an FIR lodged by an investigating agency, also noting that the Delhi Police had registered an FIR in relation to the matter and the ED was free to pursue the matter in that case.
Due to severe cold, fog, and poor air quality, many schools across India are adjusting schedules on December 23, 2025. Delhi NCR, UP and Bihar face online or hybrid classes, while Punjab and Haryana have adjusted timings. Kerala and southern states continue regular operations.
Student Startup from DPS Srinagar wins national award for Best Use of Technology
SRINAGAR: Delhi Public School, Srinagar is proud to announce that its student-run company AgroSenTech has won the national award for Best Use of Technology at the tGELF/JA India LEAD Company of the Year 2025 competition, held in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi on December 12th and 13th. The honour marks a major milestone for the school []
On December 23, 2025, gold prices in India range from Rs 13,485 per 1 gram for 24K gold and Rs 12,361 per 1 gram for 22K gold. Silver is priced at Rs 2,11,000 per kilogram. Check city-wise rates here.
Chinese embassy in India to accept e-visa applications
The Chinese embassy in Delhi has launched an online visa application system for Indian passport holders, simplifying the process by allowing applicants to fill forms and upload documents digitally. This new system, announced on WeChat, aims to provide greater convenience for those applying for tourist, business, student, and work visas.
Nitish Kumar meets PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shah in a courtesy call
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, on his first Delhi visit post-oath, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Accompanied by Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary and Union Minister Lalan Singh, Kumar's visit was termed a courtesy call with discussions on developed Bihar. Shah affirmed the NDA government's commitment to welfare and good governance.
'Learn Hindi, or...' Delhi BJP neta Renu Chaudhary's red card to foreign footballer; row erupts
A BJP councillor's confrontation with a foreign national over not speaking Hindi in a Delhi park has sparked outrage. The footballer, coaching underprivileged children for years, expressed fear and a potential need to leave India. The councillor cited park rules and communication issues, while residents debated linguistic expectations for migrants.
Historic milestone: PM Modi on conclusion of negotiations with NZ on free trade deal
NEW DELHI, Dec 22: The conclusion of talks in just nine months between India and New Zealand for a free trade agreement (FTA) is a historic milestone reflecting a strong political will and shared ambition to deepen bilateral economic ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday. The FTA is set to facilitate greater market access and promote investment flows including an FDI commitment of USD 20 billion over a period of 15 years. Modi and his New Zealand counterpart [] The post Historic milestone: PM Modi on conclusion of negotiations with NZ on free trade deal appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Canada, US, UK top destinations for higher education for Indian students: NITI Aayog report
NEW DELHI, Dec 22 : Canada, the USA, the United Kingdom, Australia and Germany have emerged as the top five international higher education destinations for Indian students, according to a report released by NITI Aayog on Monday. In 2024, Canada was the top international higher education destination with a total of 4,27,000 Indian students visiting the country. This was followed by the USA with 3,37,630 Indian students, the United Kingdom with 1,85,000, Australia (1,22,202), and Germany (42,997), the report [] The post Canada, US, UK top destinations for higher education for Indian students: NITI Aayog report appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
India-New Zealand FTA to open new gateways to prosperity: Shah
NEW DELHI, Dec 22 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement that brings in USD 20 billion investment is a textbook example of people-centric foreign policy fulfilling citizens aspirations under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Terming it as a new milestone in Modi governments trade diplomacy, Shah wrote on X, India-New Zealand FTA that brings in USD 20 billion investment and offers lucrative opportunities for Indian innovators, entrepreneurs, [] The post India-New Zealand FTA to open new gateways to prosperity: Shah appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
DU VC named interim chairman of AICTE
HC tightens rules to curb misuse of compensation for sex assault
O P Sharmas Doyens of Dogri Literature presented to Dr Jitendra
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 22: O.P. Sharma, author and publisher of the book Doyens of Dogri Literature in English was presented to Dr. Jitendra Singh,Union Minister of State (PMO) at a well attended function here, today held in connection with Dogri Manata Diwas at Abhinav Theatre,. The book highlights all the Dogri writers who were recipient of Sahitya Akademi Award, New Delhi from 1970 to date and also highlights the cultural heritage sites of Jammu region. The roll of pioneer [] The post O P Sharmas Doyens of Dogri Literature presented to Dr Jitendra appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
The CBI has taken over the murder investigation into the 2017 death of a 23-year-old hotel management graduate in Delhi. Initially ruled a suicide, a court's intervention highlighted police lackadaisical probe and questioned the circumstances. The deceased's parents pushed for a thorough investigation, leading to the CBI's involvement after eight years.
Driver injured as SUV rams parked vehicles in south Delhi
DARPAN 2.0 to let policymakers track progress of projects
Cops Press JJBs Harder To Try More Minors As Adults
After this pollution spell, brace for another crackdown on old vehicles
Death traps: How speed becomes silent killer in fog
No moderate days this Dec as fog worsens citys plight
Violations related to PUC should not go unpunished: Rekha
MCD expedites work on its fifth C&D waste plant in Tehkhand
Delhi's environment minister revealed over 10,000 vehicles failed emission tests under GRAP-4, with 2 lakh receiving PUC certificates after the 'No PUC, No Fuel' rule. The government is upgrading testing centers and introducing third-party inspections for accuracy and transparency. Experts, however, highlight current tests' limitations, advocating for mileage and maintenance in certification.
Bangladesh High Commission stops visa services citing security situation
Over the weekend, there were sharp exchanges between India and Bangladesh after a group of men came to the main gate of the Bangladesh mission in Delhi and shouted slogans
Must learn Hindi to work in Delhi, BJP councillor tells football coach from Africa
Delhi govt. begins drive against polluting units; orders closure of 411 polluting industries
No room for complacency, says Sirsa, assures strict action against citys non-conforming industries; over 2 lakh vehicles checked for emissions since no PUC, no fuel order came into force on Dec. 18
Mumbai-bound AI plane returns to Delhi after engine failure
Delhi HC flags delay in filling vacancies in Directorate of Prosecution
IIIT Delhi director resigns, signed MoUs with foreign orgs without approval
Bangladesh Suspends Visa Operations in Delhi
Government sources in New Delhi said visa services currently stand suspended only at the Indian mission in Chittagong, while they are operational at other Indian missions in Bangladesh, including at the capital, Dhaka.
Yogi calls Akhilesh, Rahul Gandhi '2 characters'; SP chief says swipe aimed at Delhi
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath labeled Akhilesh Yadav and Rahul Gandhi as 'Do Namune' who flee the country during national crises. He alleged potential Samajwadi Party links in the codeine-based cough syrup case, a claim met with a sharp retort from Yadav, who accused the BJP of publicizing internal party disputes.
Place annual ceiling on new non-EVs in Delhi-NCR: Parliamentary Panel
A parliamentary panel proposes strict measures to combat Delhi-NCR pollution. Key recommendations include an annual cap on new petrol and diesel vehicle registrations. The panel also suggests premium bus services, incentives for electric vehicles, and improved public parking for EVs. Stricter fitness tests and faster approvals for public transport projects are also urged to reduce emissions and congestion.
National Herald case: Delhi HC issues notice to Sonia and Rahul Gandhi on ED's appeal
The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. This follows a plea by the Enforcement Directorate challenging a lower court's decision. The lower court had refused to take cognisance of the ED's money laundering case. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued the trial court's order was incorrect. He stated it could impact other ED cases.
BCCI Announces Chinnaswamy Stadium As Venue For Delhi And Andhra Clash
The match is scheduled to start on Wednesday at 9 am. The BCCI on its website stated Abhijeet Bengeri and Anil Dadekar as on-field umpires for the match: Reports
Delhi govt to halt waiver of challans for PUC norms violation, issue guidelines for e-rickshaws
Delhi government has implemented strict measures to control pollution, including zero waivers for PUC challans and exploring pooled electric bus services in Delhi-NCR. New guidelines for e-rickshaws and rationalized DTC bus routes are also being introduced to improve traffic flow and promote public transport.
2.12 Lakh New PUCs Issued In 4 Days As Delhi Cracks Down Under GRAP-IV
More than 2.12 lakh new PUC certificates were issued following the strict implementation of GRAP-IV measures over the past four days, Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said on Monday.
Bangladesh Temporarily Suspends Consular, Visa Services At High Commission In Delhi
The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi said on Monday that all consular and visa services have been temporarily suspended until further notice.
Mumbai-bound AI flight suffers engine failure, returns to Delhi
Woman Strangled To Death In Delhi, Case Filed Against Missing Husband: Cops
A 30-year-old woman was allegedly strangled to death in west Delhi's Mohan Garden area, with police registering a murder case against her husband after the postmortem examination ruled out suicide, an official said on Monday.
Delhi government is set to launch DARPAN 2.0, an advanced performance-monitoring dashboard developed by NIC. This real-time, analytics-driven platform will consolidate departmental data, enabling faster, evidence-based decision-making and improved service delivery. The initiative aims to enhance accountability and transparency in governance.
Dhurandhar beats Animals box office collection, emerges as 10th highest grossing film
New Delhi: Aditya Dhars directorial Dhurandhar, featuring Ranveer Singh, has surpassed the box office collection of Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Animal to emerge as the 10th highest grossing film in India by earning over Rs 560 crore by Monday. On Sunday, the movie earned an estimated Rs 555.75 crore to nudge out Ranbir Kapoor-starrer Animal (Rs 553.87 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 .
Samyukt Kisan Morcha announces all India protest against G RAM G law
New Delhi: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) on Monday announced an All India Resistance Day on January 16 against the passing of a new law that replaces the rural employment scheme MGNREGA. SKM leaders held a press conference on Monday where they demanded that the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajiveeka Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM 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 .
Chinese Embassy in India to accept visa applications online: Report
Beijing: The Chinese Embassy in Delhi has launched the China Online Visa Application System for Indian passport holders to apply for visas online, a social media report here said on Monday. The process is easier than the previous one, where applicants were required to present many paper documents in person, Shenzhen-based Chinese online portal Greater 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: BJP councillor threatens African national over not learning Hindi
New Delhi: A video of BJP councillor Renu Chaudhary allegedly threatening an African national for not learning Hindi has gone viral on social media. In the purported video, Chaudhary, who represents Ward No 196 of east Delhis Patparganj, is heard asking the man, a football coach who teaches children at an MCD park, why he 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 .
New Delhi, 22 December 2025: With mental health and well-being of students and teachers emerging as crucial components of a healthy and productive society, educational institutions are increasingly aware of the need to focus more on these aspects, reflecting the changing needs of the Indian education sector. QS I-GAUGE, the highly acclaimed independent education rating [] The post QS I-GAUGEs Institution of Happiness survey highlights huge improvements in campus facilities, academic freedom, emotional support appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
IndiaNew Zealand conclude free trade talks, to sign deal in 2026
New Delhi: India and New Zealand on Monday said they have concluded talks on a free trade deal that will give India tariff-free access to the island nations markets, bring in USD 20 billion of investment over the next 15 years and help double bilateral trade in the next five years. The third free-trade agreement 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 HC Seeks Response From Gandhis on ED Plea
The High Court listed the matter for further hearing on March 12, 2026
Over 500 Flights Delayed At Delhi Airport Due To Bad Weather, Low Visibility
More than 500 flights were delayed, and at least 14 flights were cancelled at the Delhi airport due to bad weather and low visibility conditions.
Delhi air crisis: Sirsa orders sealing of polluting units, action on WFH flouters
Over 13 lakh Indian students studied abroad in 2024: NITI Aayog
New Delhi: India continues to send a large number of students overseas for higher education, with more than 13.35 lakh Indians studying abroad in 2024, highlighting the countrys growing dependence on foreign universities despite having the worlds largest college-age population, according to a report released by NITI Aayog on Monday. Canada, the United States, the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
PM Narendra Modi holds a telephone conversation with the Prime Minister of New Zealand
New Delhi, Dec 22: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, The Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon today. The two leaders jointly announced the successful conclusion of the historic, ambitious and mutually beneficial IndiaNew Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA). With negotiations having been Initiated during PM Luxons [] The post PM Narendra Modi holds a telephone conversation with the Prime Minister of New Zealand appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .
Animals Bear Brunt As Delhi Air Pollution Shows No Signs Of Abatement
As Delhi-NCR's toxic air sparks warnings for children, the elderly and those with respiratory illness, veterinarians and animal welfare groups are flagging a quieter crisis unfolding among pets and stray animals.
Watch: Virat Kohli spotted at Mumbai airport; returns to VHT
Former India captain Virat Kohli is set to play for Delhi in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, marking a return to domestic cricket. His presence, alongside experienced players like Ishant Sharma and Navdeep Saini, adds significant buzz to Delhi's campaign. Kohli enters the tournament in strong ODI form, aiming to reconnect with the domestic grind and lead by example.
Zero Oil Pressure In Engine Forced Air India Mumbai-Bound Flight To Take Mid-Air Turnback: Officials
The aircraft landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, and all passengers and crew were reported safe.
Following the controversy surrounding the recent Supreme Court order regarding the new definition of the Aravalli hills based on a 100-metre criterion, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupendra Yadav said the directive aims to restrict illegal mining. He added that the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) will develop a detailed, district-wise conservation plan for the Aravalli region in accordance with the Supreme Court's order. The Supreme Court order pertains to mining and cannot be interpreted for other purposes such as residential development or restriction of agricultural lands, Yadav clarified to reporters in Delhi on Monday. He accused opposition leaders of spreading misinformation and claimed that the previous Congress-led government initiated illegal mining in the Aravalli areas. The Union government has announced a freeze on new mining leases in the region, as mandated by the Supreme Court. This freeze is part of a framework established by the court to provide stronger protections for the mountain system and to ensure that no new mining leases will be granted until a comprehensive management plan is finalized. The ICFRE will be tasked with preparing a district-wise plan for the 37 districts where the Aravalli hills are located. The court has allowed mining under exceptional conditions. If permitted under exceptional and scientifically justified circumstances, the order includes a thorough analysis of cumulative environmental impact, which encompasses detailed post-mining restoration and rehabilitation, explained Yadav. Additionally, mining may be allowed in the case of strategic minerals and needs related to atomic energy. Yadav also provided details on the current mining areas in the Aravalli hills. There are currently 217 square kms under mining out of a total of 1,47,577 square kms in the Aravalli region, which is less than 2%, he stated. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has reopened the judgement after some petitioners appealed for a review in light of recent controversies, which may put 90% of the Aravalli region at risk of mining. Earlier, in the wake of the controversy regarding the 100-metre criterion, the government clarified that the definition of the Aravalli hills and ranges has been standardized across states under the Supreme Court's direction. This standardization aims to eliminate ambiguity and prevent the misuse of practices that allowed mining to occur dangerously close to the bases of the hills. In response to longstanding cases concerning illegal mining in the Aravallis, the Supreme Court constituted a committee in May 2024 to recommend a uniform definition, as different states had been using inconsistent criteria for granting mining permissions. This committee, chaired by the Environment Ministry Secretary and comprising representatives from Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, and Delhi, along with technical experts, found that only Rajasthan had an officially established definition, which has been in place since 2006. According to this definition, landforms that rise 100 metres or more above local relief are classified as hills, and mining is prohibited within the lowest bounding contour that encloses such hills, regardless of the height or slope of the landforms inside the contour. It has been agreed that all states will adopt this long-standing definition from Rajasthan, along with additional safeguards to enhance objectivity and transparency.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Holds Pollution Review Meet As Air Remains 'Very Poor'
According to the CPCB, the overall air quality of Delhi was recorded in the 'very poor' category with a reading of 366. Seven areas of the city recorded severe AQI levels.
'Learn Hindi Or Else...': BJP Leader Threatens African Man, Then Clarifies
A BJP councillor was seen threatening an African national to learn Hindi within a month or else he would not be allowed inside a public park where he teaches football in Delhi.
R Madhavan moves to court to seek protection of personality rights
Actor R Madhavan has secured legal protection for his personality rights from the Delhi High Court, preventing unauthorized use of his name and image. This follows similar court orders for other public figures like Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, who are increasingly seeking legal recourse to protect their likeness and prevent misuse, especially with the rise of AI.
Uber, Ola Buses, Big EV Push: What Delhi May Do To Curb Air Pollution
As congestion and pollution continue to choke the national capital, the Delhi government is considering a combination of tougher enforcement and incentives for cleaner mobility.
Govt Fully Committed To Protecting Aravallis, Cong Spreading Lies: Bhupender Yadav
NEW DELHI, Dec 22: Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday accused the Congress of spreading misinformation and lies on the issue of the new definition of the Aravallis and stressed that mining can be carried out legally in only 0.19 per cent of the area covered by the mountain range. At a press briefing, he said the Narendra Modi government remains fully committed to protecting and restoring the Aravallis. The Congress, which allowed rampant illegal mining in Rajasthan during [] The post Govt Fully Committed To Protecting Aravallis, Cong Spreading Lies: Bhupender Yadav appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
From Borgaon To Being Roped In By RCB For Rs 5.20 Crore: Mangesh Yadav's Surreal Tale
MPCA President Mahanaaryaman Scindia: When Mangesh Yadav's name flashed on the IPL 2026 auction broadcast in Abu Dhabi, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) locked horns in a fierce bidding war that would forever change the left-arm quick's life. Within seconds, his price rocketed from a base price of Rs 30 lakh to a staggering Rs 5.2 crore a staggering jump FOR pacer. Mangesh, a skiddy left-arm pacer consistently clocking 140 kmph with a sharp yorker in his repertoire, could barely process what had just unfolded. I was just thinking the first bid should happen and a team takes me in. I was very happy with the first bid from RCB. But within seconds in front of my eyes, SRH and RCB were bidding for me and it reached five crores, which was extremely astonishing. My parents back home were very happy. They were also getting calls from relatives, recalled Mangesh in an exclusive conversation with IANS. By the roadside in Noida, miles away from where his protege's life was being transformed, Phoolchand Sharma, who runs Wonders Cricket Club in Sector 34, was over the moon. I can't tell you how happy I was on seeing him get selected. Before that, a lot of my kids have played in IPL, but theres a different happiness for him. I did hope that he would be picked by any franchise in the auction. I have never met his father or mother, nor have I ever spoken to them. I have raised him like my own kid. Hes been a good boy from the start, a calm and hardworking kid. I gave him a lot of matches to play in Delhi, as well as in district leagues in Delhi and UP. Hes had a very long journey and is now seeing the fruits of being committed to that path, he told IANS. Mangeshs cricketing journey began in Borgaon village in Madhya Pradeshs Chhindwara district, not in an established academy but within the confines of his homes compound. As a six-year-old, he'd return home in tears after fighting with boys while playing. His mother Rita found a solution: she'd bowl to him in the compound and he would bat for as long as he wished for. From there, I started playing cricket regularly and it went on and on. I started bowling a little late with the left arm. But I used to see the bowling of Mitchell Johnson and RP Singh sir bowling and that served me with a lot of motivation, he said. As years went by, Mangesh's talent was remarkable. But in a family of six, including three sisters, his father Ramavadh drove trucks to make ends meet. Pursuing professional cricket seemed financially impossible till his maternal uncle convinced Ramavadh to let his son train seriously in cricket. After that, Mangesh headed to Noida to train under Sharma. The hostel fees was Rs 20,000 per month, well beyond his familys reach. What happened next would alter the trajectory of Mangesh's life. Sir saw my game and he liked it. He forgave my fees and told me to stay here and practice, so that was very helpful in my journey. My father has done so much for me. I didn't have any stress, I just wanted to play cricket, all the struggle was of my father. If it wasn't for Phoolchand sir, I wouldn't have been able to play cricket. The reality of Ramavadh's sacrifice was never lost on Mangesh. While Mangesh caught 4am trains for training and playing matches, his father was waking at the same time to begin another gruelling shift behind the wheel - navigating treacherous roads through the night with no fixed schedule. My father's struggle is unmatchable. I used to feel sad that I am going out to play, but the father is waking up daily in the morning, goes out to drive the truck in night through a lot of dangerous roads, though they are in a much better condition now. The academy evolved alongside Mangesh - from basic facilities to a comprehensive setup featuring gym, indoor nets, trainers and coaches. Apart from Shivam Mavi, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, India stars Jasprit Bumrah, Ashish Nehra and Hardik Pandya would drop in for net sessions at Sharmas academy when in Delhi-NCR. What immediately struck Sharma about Mangesh was the rarity of discovering a left-arm quick whose natural bowling action didn't require fundamental reconstruction. His bowling action reminded him of how Zaheer Khan bowled - smooth, repeatable, lethal. You do know that when a left-handed batter or bowler plays, there is an alag nazakat (different sheen) to it. Right from the rhythm of his run-up, he seemed like a perfect packaged bowler. We have to teach a lot of kids that you are running slow, head is falling over and rhythm is not good. But when he used to run and bowl, it was perfect action, like how Zaheer used to have. I used to like Zaheer's action and he was just like that. We worked on improvising it, he added. Small technical tweaks combined with natural athleticism gradually revealed a complete cricketer capable of consistently hitting 140kmph. The biggest thing is he had a lot of seniors to learn and get support from, like Anureet Singh, who played for IPL for many years, Mavi, and Bhuvneshwar. We caught some of his small shortcomings, or at times, other boys caught it. We developed his bowling slowly. He is a good fielder from the start. In between, when the kids used to go elsewhere, he used to hit long sixes. His hitting power has been very good, he added. Mangesh represented MP in U19 and U23 teams, but feared opportunities were slipping away without a proper platform to showcase his talent. Then came the Madhya Pradesh League - an initiative by current MPCA President Mahanaaryaman Scindia that proved to be transformative. Playing for Gwalior Cheetahs this year, Mangesh claimed 14 wickets to become the tournament's leading wicket-taker and IPL scouts took notice. I thought I would be late in grabbing my opportunity, but Scindia ji introduced the MP League and then I got the chance to perform. When I got good performances in it this year, everything has happened well from then onwards for me. Mangeshs three mentors - Anand Rajan, Tanmay Srivastava and Ankur Tyagi also stepped in to refine his game and mindset. Srivastava, an Under-19 World Cup winner for India in 2008 and now an active umpire, provided invaluable perspective to Mangesh, so as Rajan, who played for the state and in the IPL. I talk to Ankur Tyagi after every match - he is like a big brother to me. He has always supported and guided me in the right way. Due to all three of them, I have always improved in the right way, he said. Despite a disappointing debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), MP head coach Chandrakant Pandit pushed him to showcase his batting abilities in the second match against Punjab. Mangesh grabbed the chance by hitting 28 off 12 balls, proving that he was more than just a bowler. My first match was not that good, but the captain backed me well, due to which I was amongst the wickets. Pandit sir told me 'Mangesh, you will also have to do some batting'. In the second game, he sent me up to bat and I was able to showcase my batting abilities, which felt really good. Before embarking to Pune for the tournaments Super League stage, Mangesh went through trials with RCB, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians. Though he couldn't attend SRH and PBKS trials due to hectic schedule, the formers bowling coach, ex-India pacer Varun Aaron took notice of his skillsets. But now, landing at RCB means sharing a dressing room with the talismanic Virat Kohli - a childhood dream that Mangesh admits never seemed remotely possible. I always wanted to play under Virat sir's captaincy. But he is not doing it and I feel sharing the dressing room with him is a big deal. I never imagined that I would play alongside him and this set to become a reality is a great feeling. His recent experience under Patidar's captaincy during high-pressure SMAT games also keeps Mangesh in good stead. Cricket is tough if you think in mind about it and playing in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a lot of pressure, as you do know the likes of Prabhsimran Singh and Ishan Kishan are tough to bowl to. But all of this was made easy by playing under Rajat bhaiya's captaincy. The role he gave me, I managed to fulfill that and it made life easy. The visualization has already begun Mangesh standing at the top of his run-up in RCB's iconic red jersey, with the new ball in hand, enough to give him goosebumps. But the ultimate dream still remains to be wearing Indias blue jersey. How exciting it will be to wear the RCB jersey and have the ball in hand at the top of my run-up mark. I hope that this paves the way for me to wear the Indian team jersey and bowl the first ball for my country. That will be an out of the world feeling. Rather than dwelling on IPL's magnitude, Mangesh plans to focus on absorbing lessons from Kohli, Patidar and Venkatesh Iyer to improve his craft. We will have a team camp, where I will prepare alongside with Virat sir, Venky and Rajat bhaiyas. I will learn from them by playing a lot of practice matches and improve along the way. I will get to be in touch with them, so it is going to be very helpful for me. What separates Mangesh from India's impressive stable of fast bowlers, Sharma argues, isn't just his left-arm pace - it's being that rare quick offering genuine all-round capabilities. The biggest thing is India has a lot of fast bowlers, but you won't get a perfect package like him. I can count them - Arshdeep, Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Shami. All of them are good bowlers. They play for India because they are good. But they won't be a batter or fielder like them. It's not that he is my child. I am talking about the language of cricket. Being a cricketer, he is a perfect package. In the future, if God keeps him healthy, you will see him play for India in a year or two. The financial windfall from the life-changing IPL deal means Mangesh can fulfill his off-field aspirations. Marrying off his three sisters with pomp and splendour tops his priority list, followed by giving his father respite from decades of grueling truck driving work and buying a house to end the familys stay in a rented home. His message to aspiring cricketers reflects hard-earned wisdom - that talent alone isn't enough, that even strong performances don't guarantee selection, and that persistence matters more than immediate results. What I have felt through my cricketing journey is without struggle, you won't get anything. You won't get anything easy and if you're playing cricket, you'll have to put in more effort, including the double of what is expected usually, as there are times when you won't get selected even if you perform well. His message to aspiring cricketers reflects hard-earned wisdom - that talent alone isn't enough, that even strong performances don't guarantee selection, and that persistence matters more than immediate results. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You just have to be true to yourself and your efforts. My seniors always tell me that I have to put my head down and play cricket. So it's important to respect everyone and keep your head down and play well when on the field, signed off Mangesh. Article Source: IANS
Calcutta High Court reserves verdict on PILs over Lionel Messi event fiasco at Salt Lake stadium
KOLKATA: Hearing of three PILs over the fiasco during Argentine football legend Lionel Messi showcasing event last week that saw spectator rampage at the Salt Lake stadium here concluded before the Calcutta High Court on Monday. The petitioners sought investigation into the incident by central agencies as well as refund of ticket price to the spectators, a section of whom had gone on a rampage over not being able to see their favourite star and early conclusion of the event following a messy situation on the ground with some people jostling around Messi, thus blocking the view of those seated on the stands. The court reserved judgment after arguments by the parties in the matter were concluded. The counsel for the West Bengal government argued before a division bench presided by Acting Chief Justice Sujoy Paul that the state did not sell the tickets, and it was an event organised by a private event management company. Claiming that the investigation was being done in right earnest by the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate, he stated before the court that the state's director general of police (DGP) was issued a show cause letter over the incident. The owner of the event management company, Satadru Dutta, was arrested on December 14, soon after the event on that day, in connection with the fiasco. Dutta's lawyer submitted before the division bench, also comprising Justice Partha Sarathi Sen, that they were unaware as to how so many people, who milled around Messi blocking the view of the spectators, entered the ground as the police were in charge of entry points. He further stated that the football legend's events were also held in Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi and that all went off smoothly. Billwadal Bhattacharya, the lawyer for Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, who is one of the petitioners, questioned the source of funds for organising the event and prayed that the court order an investigation by a competent central agency. Senior advocate Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya, representing another petitioner, submitted before the court that the enquiry committee formed by the state government is not a judicial commission, but is simply an administrative one. The state's lawyer stated that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had, soon after the incident, expressed regret for the fiasco and that her government formed the committee comprising a retired high court judge and top officers of the administration. He also said that the police are probing as to how water bottles, which were thrown onto the ground by irate spectators, found their way into the stadium when the police had ordered that these were among the objects not allowed to be taken inside.
BJP slams Sonia Gandhi over her article accusing Centre of bulldozing MGNREGA
NEW DELHI: A day after President Droupadi Murmu gave her assent to the VBGRAMG Bill, turning it into a law, the Bharatiya Janata Party launched a sharp attack on Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi over her recent article criticising the changes. Gandhi had accused the Modi government of bulldozing MGNREGA, a charge the BJP strongly rejected. Amit Malviya, national head of the BJPs Information and Technology wing, responded with a detailed rebuttal on X, describing Sonia Gandhis article as 'a flight of political fancy'. He wrote, Sonia Gandhis recent article on MGNREGA reads less like a serious engagement with law or data and more like a flight of political fancy. According to Malviya, the article showed that she had not read the VBG RAM-G Act, as her arguments were based on mischaracterisations, selective memory, and outright falsehoods. In his post, Malviya accused Gandhi of romanticising the origins of MGNREGA by claiming it emerged from widespread consultation. This is far from the truth. MGNREGA was conceived and driven by the National Advisory Councilan unelected executive body that functioned, in effect, as a super-cabinet. So dominant was its role, that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was frequently derided as a super cabinet secretary under Sonia Gandhis NAC. Contradicting her claim that demand-based employment was being dismantled, Malviya said the legal guarantee remained intact. Sonia Gandhi claims that demand-based employment is being dismantled, thereby destroying the employment guarantee itself. The facts say otherwise. The legal right to employment remains untouched. What has changed is the budgeting frameworkfrom an open-ended, reactive model to a norm-based system, which is how virtually all government schemes function. Has the Modi Government Bulldozed MGNREGA? Or Repaired It? Sonia Gandhis recent article on MGNREGA reads less like a serious engagement with law or data and more like a flight of political fancy. It is evident that she has not read the VBG RAM G Act, because her arguments pic.twitter.com/ffyUAhmS5M Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) December 22, 2025 Defending the new law, he added, Far from weakening the guarantee, employment has been strengthened from 100 days to 125 days. In FY 202425, planned allocations closely tracked actual demand, demonstrating that disciplined planning works. Rejecting Gandhis assertion that MGNREGA continues to be the backbone of rural survival and that the new law would suppress rural wages, Malviya argued that rural India had evolved. This ignores how rural India has changed. While MGNREGA did play a role in alleviating distress, it has not kept pace with todays rural realities. NABARD and MPCE data show that 80% of rural households report higher consumption, 42.2% report higher incomes, and 58.3% now rely exclusively on formal credit. He maintained that MGNREGA now acts as a safety net rather than the centrepiece of rural livelihoods. He further challenged Gandhis warning that the poorest would be abandoned under the revised framework. The claim that the poorest will be abandoned if the old framework changes is equally misleading. Rural poverty has fallen sharplyfrom 25.7% to 4.86%. MSME credit has tripled since 2014, enabling self-employment and non-farm livelihoods. Public policy cannot be frozen in the conditions of 2005 when India has demonstrably moved forward, he said. On the allegation that the Centre was shifting the financial burden to states by moving from a 90:10 to a 60:40 funding model, Malviya called the claim incorrect. Demolition of MGNREGA to have catastrophic consequences: Sonia Gandhi This, too, is false. MGNREGA was never funded at 90% by the Centre in practice. States already bear 25% of material costs, major administrative expenses, and 100% of unemployment allowanceoften without predictability or transparency. The new model simply formalises and rationalises funding, making states equal partners rather than passive implementers of top-down mandates. Malviya also addressed concerns over a 60-day work restriction, saying it had been misrepresented. He noted that Gandhi portrayed it as an attack on year-round employment, but argued that it was flexible and state-notified. In reality, this period is aggregated, flexible, and state-notifiednot a blanket ban. It protects agricultural operations during sowing and harvest, prevents labour shortages, allows workers to earn higher seasonal farm wages, and still expands the overall employment guarantee to 125 days. He emphasised that decentralisation remained central to the new framework. Under the VBG RAM G Act, all works originate from Viksit Gram Panchayat Plans approved by Gram Sabhas. What is being dismantled is fragmentation and opacitynot decentralisation. Launching a direct attack on Gandhi, Malviya accused her of ignoring long-standing problems within MGNREGA. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh announces public agitation campaign to repeal abolition of MGNREGA What Sonia Gandhi pointedly ignores are the systemic failures that plagued MGNREGA for years: Rs 193.67 crore misappropriated in 202425 alone, with recovery of barely 5.32%; fake works existing only on paper; machinery replacing labour; and digital attendance systems bypassed across 23 states. These are not minor lapsesthey are deep structural flaws. He went on to claim that reforms under the Modi government had produced tangible improvements. Between FY 201314 and FY 202526, womens participation rose from 48% to 56.74%; Aadhaar-seeded active workers increased from 76 lakh to 12.11 crore; workers on APBS grew from zero to 11.93 crore; geo-tagged assets expanded from none to over 6.44 crore; and e-payments surged from 37% to 99.99% Malviya asserted. The bottom line is clear. This is not demolitionit is overdue repair. The real choice is not between compassion and reform, but between paper guarantees that under-deliver and a modern framework that actually works. VBG RAM G is not a retreat from social protection; it is renewal and expansion for a changing India. Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge claims VB-G RAM G act undermines MGNREGA's rights-based framework
NEW DELHI: Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday accused the Congress of spreading misinformation and lies on the issue of the new definition of the Aravallis and stressed that mining can be carried out legally in only 0.19 per cent of the area covered by the mountain range. At a press briefing, he said the Narendra Modi government remains fully committed to protecting and restoring the Aravallis. The Congress, which allowed rampant illegal mining in Rajasthan during its tenure, is spreading confusion, misinformation and lies about the issue, the minister alleged. The new definition, approved by the Supreme Court on the recommendation of the Environment Ministry, aims to curb illegal mining and allow sustainable mining legally, and that too only after a Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) is prepared by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), he said. The ICFRE will identify areas where mining can be permitted only under exceptional and scientifically justified circumstances, sources said. The study will also determine ecologically sensitive, conservation-critical and restoration-priority areas within the Aravalli landscape where mining will be strictly prohibited. Yadav said that legally approved mining currently covers only a very small fraction of the Aravalli region, amounting to about 0.19 per cent of the total geographical area of 37 Aravalli districts in Rajasthan, Haryana and Gujarat. Delhi, which has five Aravalli districts, does not permit any mining. According to the Supreme Court's directions, he said, no new mining leases will be granted in the Aravalli region until a Management Plan for Sustainable Mining is prepared for the entire landscape by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education. Existing mines may continue operations only if they strictly comply with sustainable mining norms laid down by the committee. In November 2025, the Supreme Court accepted a uniform legal definition of what constitutes the Aravalli Hills and Aravalli Range on the recommendation of a committee led by the Environment Ministry. Under this definition, an Aravalli Hill is a landform with an elevation of at least 100 metres above its local surrounding terrain and an Aravalli Range is a cluster of two or more such hills within 500 metres of each other. Critics, including environmentalists and some scientists, argue that many ecologically important parts of the Aravalli system do not meet the 100-metre threshold (e.g., low ridges, slopes, foothills and recharge areas), yet are important for groundwater recharge, biodiversity support, climate moderation and soil stability. They warn that areas excluded under the new definition could be opened for mining, construction and commercial activities, weakening long-standing protections and ecological continuity across the range. The redefinition has triggered protests, from Rajasthan to Haryana, and social media campaigns. The Centre has rejected the charge that the new definition weakens environmental safeguards. It has said that most of the Aravalli region (over 90 per cent) remains protected and the new definition does not relax mining controls. Yadav on Sunday said the Aravali range includes all landforms which exist within 500 metres of two adjoining hills of a height of 100 metres or more. All landforms existing within this 500-metre zone, irrespective of their height and slopes, are excluded for the purposes of grant of mining leases, he said.
Delhi's air quality has deteriorated to 'severe' category which has prompted Delhi government to take emergency health and safety measures across the National Capital Region (NCR). From implementing GRAP IV, mandating 50% work from home, hybrid and online school to temporarily closing toll plazas on border areas, the authorities have gone all out on the growing pollution in Delhi.
In year 2025, India learnt to play Chinese checkers
In 2025, India skillfully managed its relationship with China amidst global trade disruptions and geopolitical tensions. New Delhi pursued a balanced approach, engaging Beijing cautiously while safeguarding its strategic autonomy. This careful diplomacy involved border stabilization, diplomatic openings, and a pragmatic reassessment of international partnerships. India's actions signaled its commitment to a multipolar world, where it could maneuver independently.
Delhi: Over 2.12 lakh PUCs issued in four days, 10,000 vehicles fail tests under GRAP-IV
Delhi's air quality measures are showing results. Over two lakh Pollution Under Control certificates were issued in four days. Nearly 10,000 vehicles failed emission tests. Industries and private offices flouting work-from-home rules face strict action. The government is upgrading PUC centers and intensifying enforcement against polluting units. Efforts to control dust and revive water bodies are ongoing.
AIIMS doctor explains why jumping to antibiotics for a sore throat may harm you more than help
A leading doctor from AIIMS Delhi is advising patients to think twice before opting for antibiotics for sore throats, as the majority are caused by viral infections that antibiotics can't treat.
India-NZ FTA: Delhi gains zero-duty access for all goods; more visas for service providers
New Zealand to gain access in wood, wool, sheep meat, leather, wine, honey, apples but pact criticised by ruling coalition partner
SC stays conviction of NCP leader Manikrao Kokate; bars him from holding office of profit
NEW DELHI: In a major relief to Ajit Pawar-led NCP leader and former Maharashtra minister Manikrao Kokate, the Supreme Court on Monday stayed his conviction in a cheating and forgery case. Issue notice to the Maharashtra government. Meanwhile, the conviction of the petitioner (Manikrao Kokate) shall remain stayed to the extent that there shall be no result of disqualification as a member of the state legislative assembly. However, that will not entitle the petitioner to hold an office of profit. He shall not hold any office of profit, said a two-judge vacation bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi. Senior advocate and former Attorney General of India Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Kokate, argued that this was a case deserving relief as Kokate was a five-time MLA, a current minister, had no criminal antecedents, and had been awarded a two-year sentence. I am not a holder of any post in 1989. I started as a lawyer. A lawyer in 1989 cannot have Rs 30,000. Please consider all this, my lords, Rohatgi submitted. Kokates conviction and two-year jail sentence awarded by a magistrate in February this year were upheld by a Nashik sessions court last Tuesday, which held that Kokate and his brother had dishonestly induced the state government to allot them flats. The Supreme Courts special vacation bench was hearing Kokates appeal in the cheating and forgery case linked to a government housing scheme. Although the Bombay High Court had suspended his two-year jail term on December 19, 2025, it had refused to stay his conviction, noting that prima facie evidence pointed to Kokates involvement. Challenging the High Courts refusal to stay his conviction, Kokate moved the apex court seeking relief. The NCP leader has been accused of securing a flat under a government housing scheme meant for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) by submitting false affidavits regarding his income. After hearing the submissions, the top court granted relief to Kokate by staying his conviction in the cheating case.
