India and Russia Review Military-Technical Cooperation in Key Talks
India and Russia held crucial talks in New Delhi to enhance military-technical cooperation and explore joint defense production initiatives. India and Russia Review Military-Technical Cooperation in Key Talks
Congress Holds Vote Save, Nation Save March in Bhopal Amid Protests Against Police Action
Congress organized a march in Bhopal to protest police action against its MPs in Delhi, emphasizing the importance of voting rights and democracy. Congress Holds Vote Save, Nation Save March in Bhopal Amid Protests Against Police Action
BJP Womens Wing Protests Outside Congress Headquarters, Accuses Rahul and Priyanka of Misconduct
BJPs womens wing protests against Congress leaders for alleged misconduct towards female police during ongoing opposition demonstrations in New Delhi. BJP Womens Wing Protests Outside Congress Headquarters, Accuses Rahul and Priyanka of Misconduct
MCD demolishes 21 unauthorised structures in Delhi enforcement drive
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Mozambiques Transport Minister Explores Delhi Metros Advanced Training Facilities
Mozambiques transport minister visits Delhi Metro, exploring training programs and discussing maritime cooperation with Indian officials. Mozambiques Transport Minister Explores Delhi Metros Advanced Training Facilities
According to the party, Stanley, Rangasai, Rajesh and Venky were travelling on a Delhi-bound train when security personnel boarded their coach during a scheduled halt in Bhopal and asked them to deboard
Chhattisgarh IPS Officer Takes Charge Of Delhi Metro Security
The 2011-batch IPS officer, currently on Central deputation, has taken charge as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), sources close to him said on Thursday.
Crime Branch to investigate role of 2,873 people with criminal records flagged during CJPs Chalo Sansad march; probe to examine whether violence was premeditated.
Delhi HC to hear IYC plea today seeking permission to protest at Jantar Mantar
Delhi L-G calls for uniform parking rates across Delhi
Delhi L-G calls for uniform parking rates across Delhi
Senior Politician Questions Violence Against Kashmiri Youth in Delhi
Sheikh Bashir criticizes the attack on a Kashmiri youth in Delhi, linking it to broader issues of democracy and civil rights. Senior Politician Questions Violence Against Kashmiri Youth in Delhi
Slap row: Delhi HC seeks response from police, Parvesh Verma
Chawla Art Gallery Presents Continuum by Asit Kumar Patnaik
Celebrating three decades of the artist's creative journey, the exhibition will be held from 14th18th October 2026 at LTC Gallery, Bikaner House, New Delhi, before continuing at Chawla Art Gallery, Saket, until 14th November 2026.
New Delhi [India], October 8: Rocket Learning, one of India's largest early learning non-profits, hosted Udaan 2026 in New Delhi - India's largest convening on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). The event brought together a diverse line-up of speakers and experts from government and policymaking, research and academia, education, civil society and technology. The theme for this edition was 'From Surviving to Thriving', and the event saw discussions on enhancing Anganwadis, investing in early childhood development, the role of technology in supporting India's youngest children and the resulting impact, through speaker sessions and panel discussion.
Congress Alleges Police Manhandled Ex-Assam Chief During Guwahati Protest
The party was protesting the police action against Opposition MPs during a demonstration in Delhi on Wednesday.
I-T dept moves appellate tribunal against Rs 32.66-cr tax relief to Dr Lal PathLabs
Dr Lal PathLabs, in a regulatory filing, said that it received an intimation on Wednesday regarding an appeal filed by the I-T Department before the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT), New Delhi.
Cyber frauds, cyber-crimes do not respect borders: PM
Calls for developing global framework to keep fraudsters at bay New Delhi, Oct 08: Asserting that technology achieves scale only when it gains trust, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that cyber frauds and cyber-crimes do not respect borders and global framework is required to keep fraudsters at bay. While addressing the India Mobile [] The post Cyber frauds, cyber-crimes do not respect borders: PM appeared first on Northlines .
Says swift combat transition reflected forces operational preparedness New Delhi, Oct 08: Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, on Thursday said that the Indian Air Forces swift transition into combat operations during the Operation Sindoor demonstrated its destructive power as well as effective air defence operations. Addressing the 94th Air Force [] The post Op Sindoor showcased IAFs combat readiness: Air Chief appeared first on Northlines .
CM attends 57th GST Council meeting
New Delhi, Oct 08: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today attended the 57th meeting of the GST Council, chaired by Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman, in New Delhi. The meeting was attended by Chief Ministers and Finance Ministers from across the country, along with senior officials of the Ministry of Finance, Government [] The post CM attends 57th GST Council meeting appeared first on Northlines .
Liquor shops in Delhi to remain closed on Oct 9 and 10 ahead of protests
The Delhi government on Thursday directed the closure of liquor stores in the city on October 9 and 10 due to the prevailing situation to maintain public order. An order issued by the Excise Department said that the closure of liquor vends was based on Delhi Police inputs as a preventive measure aimed at maintaining public order. The order has come ahead of ongoing protests by opposition parties demanding resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged vote theft. A call for protest at Jantar Mantar on October 10 has also been given by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP). More than 20,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed across Delhi ahead of the CJP protest, a senior officer said on Thursday. The officer said no permission has been granted for any protest at Jantar Mantar, and appealed to people to avoid participating in any unauthorised gathering.
IIT Hyderabad-Incubated WiSig Networks Opens Commercial Orders for Indigenous 5G Massive MIMO Radio
WiSig is demonstrating the radio and its complete 5G Standalone solution at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, from October 7 to 10.
Delhi Polices October 10 protest test: Police lawfully police, dont police dissent
Delhi Polices reported outreach to guesthouses, RWAs and market associations to discourage participation in the October 10 Jantar Mantar protest raises questions over the limits of policing and the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. The administration must prevent violence and enforce lawful restrictions without treating peaceful protesters as potential lawbreakers.
Delhi to conduct slum survey after 12 years, expands rehab net
Assam Cong protests Delhi Police action, several workers detained
CBI Arrests 4 in Multi-State Exam Racket
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested four people, including a CGST inspector, in connection with an alleged impersonation and cheating network operating across Delhi, Bihar, Haryana and West Bengal.
CAQM panel sets phased exit timelines for old vehicles in Delhi-NCR
Opposition voices under attack, Congress says at protest
Disability board member, malaria inspector among 9 held in fake disability certificate racket
Retail liquor vends in Delhi declared dry on Oct 9, 10
A plan for every protest: Inside Delhi Polices crowd-control machinery
Two more found dead in Seemapuri building rubble
From CP to Rajghat, protest leaves Delhi roads in a gridlock
Commuters Inch Through Barricades, Diversions & Packed Roads
KrantiKari Kisan Union to join Delhi CEC protest on Oct 10
4 FIRs against Rahul, Priyanka over anti-CEC protests in Delhi
Delhi building collapse: Death toll rises to four in New Seemapuri, eight injured
Police say rescue operation has been completed; efforts under way to arrest building owners; AAP targets Delhi government over incident
MCD to use GIS, AI tools to curb illegal ads, plug revenue leakage
Delhi HC seeks police, Vermas stand on slap row
Row over fee arrears continues at DPS Dwarka
What about our human rights, ask cops
13-year-old weighing 186 kg undergoes bariatric surgery in Delhi
Boy left school after Class VIII following bullying overweight; both parents had also undergone weight-loss surgery
Teen allegedly driving rented Audi kills pedestrian near Vasant Kunj; apprehended
India's 'Cockroach' movement says many members detained ahead of Delhi rally
Indian authorities started mass detentions of people associated with the Cockroach youth movement, the group said Thursday, just days ahead of a major planned protest in Delhi to demand the resignation of the nation's top poll official. Opposition parties, their student
Jantar Mantar protest: Delhi shuts liquor vends for two days citing police inputs
The closure follows inputs from the Delhi Police and comes ahead of a planned demonstration at Jantar Mantar on October 10
Kangana Ranaut moves Delhi HC against obscene, AI-generated content
Justice Vikas Mahajan issued summons on pleas by Ms. Ranaut and Telugu actor Vijay Deverakonda seeking protection of their personality and publicity rights against AI-generated and obscene content circulated online
Houthis Rock Riyadh Airport With Missiles, Threaten Global Airlines as Indian Flights Turn Back
Explosions rocked Riyadh as the Houthis claimed a ballistic missile attack on King Khalid International Airport. Saudi officials said their air defences intercepted missiles aimed at Riyadh and Khamis Mushait, but the latest Houthi claim was not independently verified. The escalation followed attacks on Riyadh and Abha airports that killed three people and injured 36. The Houthis then issued a final warning to global airlines: stay away from Saudi airspace, which they called a theatre of military operations. The fallout was immediate. Flights were cancelled and delayed. An Air India flight from Delhi turned back. Air India, Air India Express and IndiGo suspended or cancelled Riyadh services until October 10. India later condemned the attacks as completely unacceptable. This report tracks the missile claims, Saudi interceptions, airline warning and flight chaos, as the Yemen war reaches civilian aviation and puts Gulf passengers at risk in a fast-moving regional crisis today.
JNU students hunger strike enters fifth day over campus issues
Delhi CJP protest: Liquor vends to remain shut on October 9 and 10
Delhi liquor shops will remain closed on October 9 and 10 ahead of the CJP protest at Jantar Mantar, with the Excise Department citing public order concerns and Delhi Police inputs amid plans for the demonstration
Rahul Gandhi vows continued fight for democracy amid Opposition protest against CEC
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Sporting Club Delhi Set for MG ISL 2026-27 Opener Against Bengaluru FC
Bengaluru is a big opponent, but we are not going there with any fear. We are going there to compete and get a result - Tomasz Tchorz.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta highlights role of youth in fight against tuberculosis
Elon Musk asks 'why no licence yet for Starlink services in India
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk has questioned why Starlink is yet to receive the final approvals to begin commercial operations in India, claiming that the satellite internet company has spent five years complying with the country's laws and regulations. Musk first accused unnamed oligarchs of blocking Starlink's entry into India, alleging that powerful business interests were trying to protect their position in the country's telecom market. He did not name any company or individual. The government them slammed the US business tycoon over his allegations that Starlink's satcom services are being blocked, making it clear that demonstrating compliance with security norms is an absolute must for every satcom licensee in the country. Within hours of the government's rebuttal, Musk in an X post asked whether Ambani is the real boss of India. The comments came in response to a post arguing that Starlink could help expand internet access in parts of India where traditional telecom infrastructure is difficult or expensive to build. Starlink has secured a licence to provide satellite communication services in India, but the company still requires security-related clearances and other approvals before it can commercially launch its service. The government has rejected suggestions that Starlink is facing a discriminatory regulatory regime, describing such claims as baseless and misconceived. Earlier in the day, Minister of State for Communications, Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, said the issue was with the Ministry of Home Affairs and was not specific to any one company. The Department of Telecom has issued licences to all satcom companies as well as provisional spectrum. Now the issue is pending with MHA for security clearance. As soon as it is cleared, they will get it. It has nothing to do with one company, Pemmasani told reporters on the sidelines of the India Mobile Congress. Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal, whose group backs OneWeb, said his own satellite venture was also waiting for regulatory approvals.
Thai businessman gets 6-year jail term in NSCN (IM) arms procurement case
Guwahati: A Thai businessman accused of helping the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) procure arms and ammunition through an international network has been sentenced to six years in prison by a special NIA court in New Delhi. The Special Exclusive Court-03 for NIA Cases at Rouse Avenue District Courts also imposed a Rs 5 [] The post Thai businessman gets 6-year jail term in NSCN (IM) arms procurement case appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Financial expert Ajay Rotti hails process-focused GST reforms
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Leading financial expert Ajay Rotti on Thursday hailed tax simplification and process-related reforms in the proposals announced by the 57th GST Council. On the decision to remove tax officials powers of arrest and raise the prosecution threshold from Rs 1 crore to Rs 5 crore, he told IANS that the tax laws have their own provisions for prosecution. If there's a criminality involved in anything that you do with taxes like misuse or fraud, the IPC or the BNS takes its own course. Earlier, the tax officers also had the powers to arrest, and the police also got the powers to arrest. The tax officers' powers have now been curtailed, rightly so, because if there's criminality anywhere, the criminal law can take its own course, the expert noted. On the practical benefits for MSMEs with the withdrawal of notices related to tax demands of up to Rs 10,000, Rotti said it is a great move. Taking out these low-value notices reduces the burden both on the taxpayer and on the GST department to track whether those penalties have been paid, etc. So that's again a good move for ease of doing business, he said. Multiple small changes announced show that the GST Council teams have been having their ears to the ground and have really heard the industry concerns, said Rotti. The GST Council has recommended removal of arrest provisions under GST; raising prosecution threshold from Rs 1 crore to Rs 5 crore; reduction in general penalty from Rs 25,000 to Rs 10,000; wider eligibility for input tax credit and refunds; further simplification of registration and compliance processes; faster refunds to improve working capital for businesses; and common standards for GST notices and proceedings, among others. It has also recommended measures for smoother movement of goods across states; intelligence-based and authorised interception of goods; simplified GST registration for small sellers on e-commerce platforms; and measures to facilitate export of services.
Odisha DCM Pravati Parida Meets Annapurna Devi at MWCD Summit on Women and Child Development
Odishas Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida joined Union Minister Annapurna Devi in New Delhi on Wednesday for a two-day national summit aimed at tightening coordination on nutrition, child protection, womens safety and empowerment programmes. The Departmental Summit of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, running on 89 October 2026, has brought together ministers and [] The post Odisha DCM Pravati Parida Meets Annapurna Devi at MWCD Summit on Women and Child Development appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Union Minister Gadkari assures Manipur CM of Centre's support for NH projects, other issues
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Imphal, Oct 8 (IANS) Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday assured the Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh of taking up all projects and issues raised by the state government, including the development of two vital National Highways. A senior official of Chief Minister's Office (CMO) in Imphal said that the Manipur Chief Minister on Thursday called on Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways at his official residence in New Delhi and raised various issues related to the development of the state. The official added that during the meeting, the Chief Minister urged Gadkari to start the construction work of the Shangshak-Tengnoupal Highway and requested him to sanction the proposed elevated highway project in Imphal city. He also urged the Union Minister to ensure the completion of the ongoing works of National Highway-37 and National Highway-2 during this working season to improve connectivity and ease the hardships faced by the people. The Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37) and the Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati National Highway (NH-2) are the two crucial lifelines of Manipur, connecting the state with the rest of the country. Union Minister Gadkari told the Chief Minister Khemchand Singh that the proposed elevated highway project in Imphal is under active consideration of the Ministry. He also assured the Chief Minister that all projects and issues raised by the state government will be duly addressed and that his Ministry will extend all possible help to Manipur for its overall development and road connectivity. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh on Thursday separately held meetings with the Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi and discussed various issues of the state. Both the Union Home Minister and the Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister told the Chief Minister that they would soon visit Manipur.
Records Fall On Day 1 Of National Open Athletics
On the opening day of the 65th National Open Athletics Championships in New Delhi, Kuldeep Kumar set a new pole vault meet record of 5.30m, and Asha Ilango broke a decade-old triple jump record with 13.89m. Other notable performances included Nirbhay Choudhary's hammer throw gold, Seema's discus gold, and impressive sprints from Giridharani Ravikumar and Manikanta Hoblidhar.
HM Amit Shah assures Manipur CM of Centre's support for peace, progress
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Imphal, Oct 8 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday assured Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh of the Centre's full support in restoring peace and ensuring progress in the state, as well as in fulfilling the aspirations of its people. A senior official of Chief Minister's Office (CMO) in Imphal said that the Home Minister also appreciated the sustained efforts of the state government to bring peace and normalcy in Manipur. Khemchand Singh on Thursday called on the Union Home Minister Shah at his official residence in New Delhi and during the meeting, the Chief Minister apprised him of the measures taken up by the state government for restoring peace and normalcy in the state. The Chief Minister told Union Minister Shah that the state government has succeeded in resuming the Imphal-Dimapur (Nagaland)-Guwahati bus service, which has brought much-needed relief to the common people. In a significant development, inter-state passenger bus services between Manipur, Assam and Nagaland resumed on August 21 after a gap of more than three years. The passenger bus services along National Highway-2 had remained disrupted following the outbreak of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo tribal communities in Manipur on May 3, 2023. The Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37) and the Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati National Highway (NH-2) are the two crucial lifelines of Manipur, connecting the state with the rest of the country. Khemchand Singh also urged the Union Home Minister to help the state to tide over the various issues being faced by the state and sought continued support from the Central government. The Chief Minister reiterated his invitation to Union Minister Shah to visit the state. Accepting the invitation, the Union Home Minister told Khemchand Singh that he will visit the state in this month, the CMO official said. He added that Union Minister Shah gave a patient hearing to the Chief Minister and assured all support in bringing peace and progress and in fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Manipur.
FSSAI issues notices to Dr Reddys, Nestle Health Science, Amazon, Flipkart over health claims
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on Thursday said that it has issued notices to Dr Reddys, Nestle Health Science, Tirupati Wellness, Amazon, Flipkart and Netmeds over allegedly misleading health claims made in connection with products marketed for protein support and maintaining lean muscle mass. In a social media post on Instagram, the food safety regulator said the companies had been asked to explain why regulatory action should not be initiated against them over the claims made for the products. According to FSSAI, the products carried claims related to high protein content, maintenance of lean muscle mass, muscle strength, immunity support and energy metabolism. The regulator said such claims were presented on product packaging in a manner that could potentially mislead consumers about the health benefits associated with the products. FSSAI takes action against Dr. Reddy's and Nestle Health Science Limited, Nex International and Shreyash Retail Pvt. Ltd. for non-compliant advertising and misleading claims, sale of unsafe food, and sale of expired/rotten food products, respectively, the food regulator said. FSSAI remains committed to ensuring safe and wholesome food, protecting consumer interests and taking stringent action against violations of food safety requirements, it added. The notices seek explanations from the companies on the nature of the claims as well as the manner in which they were presented to consumers. The companies will be required to respond to the regulator's concerns before any further regulatory action is considered. The action comes amid increased scrutiny by FSSAI of the marketing and labelling of food products that carry health and nutritional benefit claims. The regulator has been emphasising that such claims should be presented accurately and should not create misleading impressions about the benefits that consumers can expect from a product.
Gujarat: Sabarmati station redevelopment nears completion
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 8 (IANS) The redevelopment of Sabarmati Railway Station has reached an advanced stage, with around 85 per cent of the Rs 335-crore project completed, as the station is being developed as a multimodal transport hub with links to the metro and the high-speed rail station. The redevelopment by Western Railway is aimed at upgrading passenger facilities, improving movement and accessibility, introducing smart-building systems and creating infrastructure to handle the growing passenger footfall at the station. The redeveloped station will have an integrated smart-building system comprising Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and Building Management System (BMS), along with integrated CCTV surveillance, public address systems, access control, IT networking and a Passenger Information System. The latter will provide real-time information on train timings, arrivals, departures and other passenger-related information. The project includes 28 lifts and 28 escalators. The lifts will have Braille facilities, guide and warning tiles, and directional signage. Disability-friendly ticket counters, Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (ATVMs) and drinking water facilities will also be provided. Separate arrival and departure zones are being developed at the station, along with dedicated parking facilities for two-wheelers, cars, autos and buses and EV charging facilities. The passenger concourse will include waiting areas, toilets, baby-care rooms for women and children, commercial facilities and cafeterias. Connectivity between platforms and the concourse will be provided through lifts, stairs and escalators. Three foot-over-bridges (FOBs) are being provided at Sabarmati BG station and three at Sabarmati (SBT) station. The redevelopment includes seven platforms at Sabarmati BG and three at Sabarmati (SBT). Platforms will have through-roof covering, while skylights have been proposed to make better use of natural light. Currently, 19 trains originate from Sabarmati Railway Station, and 22 trains pass through it, with more than 35,000 passengers using the station every day. The roof of Sabarmati (SBI) station is around 20 metres high, while the station premises from the Ahmedabad-side FOB to the Delhi-side FOB cover more than 3.2 million square feet. A two-storey holding area spread across around 86,000 square feet is also being developed, with each floor covering approximately 43,000 square feet. It will have the capacity to accommodate 10,000 passengers and is intended to help manage crowds during periods of heavy passenger movement, including festivals such as Holi, Diwali and Chhath Puja and travel towards religious destinations. The holding area will have seating, drinking water, refreshment centres and separate toilets for men, women and persons with disabilities. A Rapido Travellers Lounge has also been established at the station, offering a dedicated passenger lounge, connectivity with almost zero waiting time and on-ground assistance. The project also incorporates environmental measures, with the station planned as an IGBC Gold-rated green building. A 1,300-kilowatt solar power plant has been proposed on the station premises. A key component of the redevelopment is its planned connectivity with Sabarmati Metro, AEC Metro and the high-speed rail station, enabling interchange between different modes of transport. Several works have entered the final stage. The east wing of the main station building is largely complete, with UTS, PRS and ticket counters already operational. The waiting area has also been shifted to the east wing, while its lifts and escalators are operational.
Delhi Liquor Shops To Stay Shut Tomorrow And Day After Amid Opposition Protests
The order, issued by the Delhi government's Excise Department on Thursday, comes as the city braces for another round of protests demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
CRPF personnel asked to carry latest anti-riot equipment, operational-scale weapons, and prescribed ammunition; Home Minister Amit Shah stays put in Delhi to monitor the situation, cancels all visits outside Delhi
Delhi government has ordered liquor stores across the city to remain closed on October 9 and 10 as a preventive measure to maintain public order amid ongoing protests over alleged vote theft. Over 20,000 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed ahead of the CJP's October 10 protest call at Jantar Mantar.
Gold, silver imports by banks, nominated agencies to attract 3 pc IGST
New Delhi, Oct 8 (PTI) Gold, silver and platinum imports by banks and nominated agencies attract 3 per cent IGST effective April 1, 2026, Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava said on Thursday. The Government notified the GST Council on Thursday that the list of designated banks and agencies that attract IGST exemptions on gold and precious metal imports has not been extended beyond March 31, 2026, Shrivastava said. This is done to ensure parity of taxes imposed on gold and other precious metal imports through other routes, including bullion. Gold, silver and platinum imports attract a 3 per cent IGST, but
Mumbai-based activist and ASIF delegation allege detention by State police
All India Students Federation (AISF) members alleged that police attempted to arbitrarily detain a student delegation travelling aboard the 12779 Goa Express from Pune to New Delhi.
INDIA bloc steps up anti-EC protest, BJP accuses Opposition of targeting institutions (Lead)
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) The Opposition continued its protest in Delhi for the third consecutive day on Thursday, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar and opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and MPs of the Opposition INDIA bloc first gathered for lunch at the Connaught Place in the national capital before travelling by buses to Rajghat. Heavy security arrangements were put in place in view of the protest. The opposition leaders had to wait for nearly an hour before being allowed inside Rajghat, where they paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. Earlier, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had said that the leaders would pray to Mahatma Gandhi for wisdom for the Union government and urge it not to take away people's right to vote. While Wednesday's destination was Jantar Mantar, the leaders headed to Rajghat on Thursday. Earlier, the Opposition had also taken out a march from Parliament to the Election Commission. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said the protest would continue until their demand for the Chief Election Commissioner's resignation was met. Even as Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a sit-in at Rajghat, it drew a sharp counterattack from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused the Opposition of attempting to pressure constitutional institutions. The Rajghat protest marked the third consecutive day of demonstrations by opposition parties in the national capital. The INDIA bloc has accused the Election Commission of irregularities in the electoral process and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Election Commission and the BJP have rejected the allegations. CPI-M MP John Brittas said the Opposition's agitation would continue until CEC Gyanesh Kumar resigns. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi said the country was united in seeking the CEC's resignation and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to respond to the concerns being raised by the Opposition. The INDIA bloc has also sought a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu amid the ongoing standoff. Congress sources said the Opposition was yet to receive a response from Rashtrapati Bhavan. Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal said the INDIA bloc had first sought an appointment on October 2 and subsequently submitted the names of participating leaders. The leaders had sought a meeting on October 7, 8 or 9. The Opposition is considering further options as it seeks to maintain pressure on the Union government and the poll panel. Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also arrived in Delhi as opposition parties prepared to intensify their mobilisation. The BJP, however, questioned the rationale behind the protests. Union Minister Krishan Pal Gurjar said that the SIR issue is already before the Supreme Court and accused the Opposition of attempting to create an atmosphere of anarchy. He said people had lost faith in the Opposition. BJP leader Pradeep Bhandari also criticised Rahul Gandhi's street protests ahead of the Supreme Court hearing, alleging that the Congress was seeking to pressure constitutional institutions and undermine the credibility of the judiciary through demonstrations. The political exchange also drew criticism from Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, who contrasted the Congress-led protests with Mahatma Gandhi's movements. Maurya said Gandhi's campaigns always maintained dignity and avoided confrontation, while alleging that recent protests involving Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had witnessed scuffles and a disregard for decorum.
25 years after toppling the Taliban, Washington dealing with regime it never recognised
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) The Taliban, driven from power by a US-led invasion that began October 7, 2001, is once again the ruler of Afghanistan, and Washington finds itself engaging with the same movement over issues ranging from prisoners release to the fate of billions of dollars worth of military equipment left behind during its military withdrawal in 2021. When the US troops withdrew from Afghanistan, they left behind armaments and vehicles that today remain in contention between Kabul and Washington. It has been 25 years since the invasion by a United States-led coalition in response to the September 11 attacks (9/11) carried out by Al Qaeda. The war began with NATO forces launching Operation Enduring Freedom against Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. The immediate objective was to dismantle Al Qaeda, whose leader, Osama bin Laden, had orchestrated 9/11 reportedly from Afghan territory under the-then Talibans protection. What began as an air campaign was followed by America's longest war of over two decades, with successive US administrations pouring vast military, political, and economic resources into rebuilding Afghanistan and maintaining security. International donors funded roads, schools, hospitals, telecommunication networks, and government institutions. Afghan children, including girls barred from education under Taliban rule, entered schools. New universities emerged, private media flourished, and Kabul was transformed from a battered capital into a rapidly expanding city with office buildings, shopping centres, fast food outlets, and modern infrastructure. Despite these visible changes, the war never truly ended. The Taliban regrouped and steadily expanded its influence, especially in rural areas, expanding through provinces. The resurgent Taliban was said to have been supported by Al Qaeda and Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), among other militant groups. By the late 2010s, Washington increasingly sought a negotiated exit from the conflict. That effort culminated in the Doha Agreement signed on February 29, 2020, between the United States and the Taliban during President Donald Trump's first administration. The accord committed Washington to withdraw all foreign forces in exchange for Taliban counterterrorism guarantees and participation in negotiations within Afghanistan. Notably, the accord was signed in Doha by Taliban leaders, and some reports claimed that the Afghan government was not a direct party to the agreement. Under the pact, US troops were reduced significantly, while air operations against the Taliban also declined. This allegedly led to weakening the morale of the then-Afghan security forces and contributed to a growing sense that the United States was preparing to leave regardless of ground conditions. President Joe Biden ultimately implemented the final withdrawal. After sweeping through provincial capitals, Taliban fighters finally entered Kabul on August 15, 2021. No country has granted official recognition to the current administration in Afghanistan except Russia, though many maintain relations over security interests and supply humanitarian aid. According to Pentagon assessments, equipment worth approximately $7 billion, including aircraft, vehicles and hundreds of thousands of weapons, ultimately fell into Taliban hands, say reports. The group has since displayed much of the equipment in military parades and now reportedly uses some of it for security operations. Today, Washington continues to engage Kabuls present regime over the fate of detainees and armament, even as it refuses to formally recognise the government. Following the release of American academic Dennis Coyle earlier this year, reports quoted US officials that efforts were ongoing to secure the return of at least two other Americans. Afghan media reported last month that according to Kabul, military equipment left behind by US forces is now the property of the government and that Afghanistan is not seeking to negotiate or bargain over it. Responding to US demands for the return of the equipment, Qahar Balkhi, spokesperson for Afghanistans Foreign Ministry, reportedly said that the United States killed many people in the country during the war and destroyed large parts, and should pay for the consequences of its actions. A quarter-century after American bombs first struck Taliban positions, the movement the US once sought to destroy governs Afghanistan again, leaving Washington negotiating with the regime it clearly declares as not having recognised.
India eases punitive rules under GST regime
New Delhi, Oct 8 (PTI) MUMBAI, Oct 8 (Reuters) Indias Goods and Services Tax Council, a body of federal and state government officials, made a series of changes to rules on Thursday, limiting punitive powers of tax officials in cases of GST offences. Businesses across India have complained about stringent tax practices and sought better ease of doing business. Here are the details of the outcomes from the GST Council meeting, according to a government release. The power of arrest is being removed from GST The threshold for prosecution for GST offences has been raised to 50 million rupees
PM Modi welcomes fresh round of GST reforms
New Delhi, Oct 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday welcomed the new round of GST reforms approved by the GST Council and said its focus was to take faster decisions, lower compliance costs and automated refunds. The prime minister also said that the GST Council's recommendations on removal of arrest provisions, greater decriminalisation and simpler procedures will have a very positive impact. The GST Council on Thursday approved removing the arrest power of tax officials and raising the threshold for prosecution fivefold to Rs 5 crore, while introducing faster and largely automated refunds for taxpayers. I welcome the new round of GST reforms approved by the GST Council, Modi said in a post on X. The focus is clear: Faster decisions. Lower compliance costs. Automated refunds. Trust-based administration, he said. Modi said these are in line with the government's constant efforts to make GST more efficient, transparent and citizen-friendly. Announcing the decisions taken at the 57th meeting of the GST Council, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said it also decided to bring down the general penalty from Rs 25,000 to Rs 10,000.
Delhis Rs 7,000cr elevated Ring Road project gets push after Barapullah Phase 3 traffic mess
Ahead of CJP protest, Delhi govt shuts down liquor vends on Oct 9, 10
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) In a preventive measure for maintaining public order ahead of Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protest, the Delhi government has ordered all city liquor vends to remain closed for two days, starting from Friday, an official said. The Delhi Excise Department, in a circular issued on Thursday, said, The closure has been ordered as a preventive measure to maintain public order, based on the prevailing situation and inputs received from Delhi Police. The order applies to liquor vends operating under specified licences, including L6, L6FG, L8, L10 and L14. The news about the circular, issued by Deputy Commissioner (Excise)/Licensing Authority Tanvir Ahmad, spread fast in the national capital on Thursday with regular customers lining up outside government vends to stock up for the two-day closure. The state government's decision to shut liquor vends followed inputs from Delhi Police about possible disturbance of law and order by drunk protesters during the demonstration planned by CJP to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged discrepancies in the poll body. The Abhijeet Dipke-led CJP movement has planned protests across the nation over a number of days. In Delhi, the CJP aims to hold a protest on October 10 at Jantar Mantar, where it held a similar protest in July against wrongdoings in exams. Meanwhile, Delhi Police Crime Branch has started investigating the violence that broke out during the CJP protest in July and registered a case under relevant sections of the law, sources said on Thursday. The Crime Branch sources said the probe will focus on the role of those responsible for the violence that broke out in New Delhi on July 20. The Crime Branch will specifically investigate whether the violence was premeditated or whether criminal elements entered the protest sites when the CJP called for a march to Parliament. On the directions of the Supreme Court, Delhi Police has already cancelled 17 FIRs related to the violence. The Crime Branch will now specifically probe the violence, which involved assaults on police personnel, vandalism and destruction of public property, including police vehicles. On July 20, a large number of protesters gathered in and around Jantar Mantar in Delhi. Around 30,000 people took to the streets and attempted to march toward Parliament demanding action against paper leaks and other examination-related irregularities.
Threat videos surface ahead of October 10 Jantar Mantar protest; Delhi Police say monitoring posts
Videos allegedly call for men to reach Jantar Mantar with batons and confront protesters; CJP urges Delhi Police to prevent right-wing extremists from entering the protest zone
ISL: Bengaluru FC Coach Munoz Ready For New Season
Bengaluru FC coach Pep Munoz expressed relief and excitement for the delayed ISL season start, anticipating a tough opening match against SC Delhi on Saturday. Despite a truncated previous season, Munoz is confident in his team's preparations and aims for a strong performance. He also shared his personal preference for the traditional home and away format over the returning playoff system.
New Delhi [India] October 8 (ANI): The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Act, 2026 (9 of 2026), officially came into force on Thursday, establishing a statutory framework to regulate recruitment and service conditions for Group A General Duty officers and personnel across the CAPFs. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued the enforcement notification under sub-section (2) of Section 1 of the Act: In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Act, 2026 (9 of 2026), the Central Government hereby appoints the 08th day of October, 2026, as the date on which the provisions of the said Act shall come into force. The legislation previously received presidential assent from President Droupadi Murmu on April 9, after passing through the Rajya Sabha on April 1 and the Lok Sabha on April 2. Top command postings in Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) will now be governed by explicit statutory l...
BJP launching election campaign through investigative agencies, says Punjab CM
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 8 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raid at his camp office here, saying it signals that the state elections will be held on time, and accusing the BJP of launching its election campaign in the state through investigative agencies. Pointing to similar raids ahead of elections in Delhi, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh, Mann said no amount of raids would yield even a rupee of corruption against the Aam Aadmi Party government, asserting that he had entered politics to serve Punjabis, not to loot Punjab. The CBI search at the Chief Minister's Camp Office itself means that the Punjab Assembly elections will be held on time. The BJP has started preparing for the elections in Punjab and has chosen to begin its election campaign through the CBI, Chief Minister Mann told the media. The Chief Minister said that the BJP was trying to create fear and tarnish the image of an elected government through central investigative agencies. But no matter how many raids they conduct, they will not find even a single rupee of corruption with us. We are neither afraid of these actions nor will we allow them (BJP) to divert us (AAP) from our commitment to the people of Punjab. We have entered politics to serve Punjabis, not to loot Punjab, he added. Chief Minister Mann said, Our politics is about giving people their rights, creating employment, strengthening public services and putting Punjab back on the path of progress. We have come into politics with a commitment to serve the people and transform the state. He added that the people of Punjab had repeatedly rejected politics based on fear and intimidation. They (BJP) can conduct raids, send agencies and create pressure, but they cannot raid the hearts of Punjabis or silence their voice. The people of Punjab will continue to stand with truth and development, he said.
MP Congress protests over SIR, backs Rahul Gandhis agitation
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Oct 8 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh Congress on Thursday staged protests across the state against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, extending support to Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi's agitation in New Delhi and demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The protests were organised at block and district levels following a nationwide call by the Congress leadership. In Bhopal, former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh, Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari and Leader of the Opposition Umang Singhar led a march from Board Office Square to the Ambedkar statue. Congress workers raised slogans against the Election Commission and later staged a sit-in protest at Board Office Square. Several protesters sat and lay on the road, disrupting traffic at the busy intersection. Speaking to reporters, Digvijaya Singh said the Congress was protesting to protect citizens' voting rights. We have to sit on the road in the interest of the people. We are protesting to restore the rights that have been taken away from the people, he said. Singh alleged that democracy was being undermined in the country. The votes of 13 crore people have been stolen. Who stole these votes? This is not a battle for Rahul Gandhi or Priyanka Gandhi; it is a fight for the rights of the people of this country, he said, alleging that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was promoting a dictatorial style of governance. He also demanded the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar, saying that democracy required an impartial Election Commission. If Prime Minister Narendra Modi has even a little sensitivity, he should seek the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar. If the Election Commission is not impartial, democracy will not survive, he said. Patwari said the Congress was observing a Black Day across the state in protest against the police action on LoP Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and INDIA bloc MPs during their demonstration in Delhi. He said the party would continue to raise questions regarding electoral rolls and the election process through democratic means and would continue its campaign to protect voting rights. In Bhopal, some protesters climbed the Ambedkar statue and raised slogans, prompting deployment of additional police personnel. NSUI workers also attempted to spray black paint on a poster of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading to an argument with the police. Protests were also held in several other districts. In Indore, Congress workers burnt an effigy of Gyanesh Kumar and raised slogans demanding his resignation. In Sagar, party workers dressed in black and tied their hands with ropes before burning an effigy of the Chief Election Commissioner. The Congress also alleged that more than 15 party workers travelling to Delhi to join LoP Rahul Gandhi's protest were made to deboard a train at Itarsi. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav criticised the Congress for blaming the Election Commission for its electoral setbacks and said the party should introspect about its organisation and leadership. Referring to Congress governments in Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, Yadav questioned the party's criticism of the electoral process. If there is distrust in the Election Commission's process, then what is the meaning of Congress's victory in Kerala? he said.
Fenesta Open: Sureshkumar, Sinha set up semi-final clash; partner to reach doubles final
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Defending champion and top seed Manish Sureshkumar battled past Parth Aggarwal in a three-set thriller, while third seed Nitin Sinha also advanced to the semi-finals at the 31st Fenesta Open National Tennis Championship here on Thursday. Sureshkumar, who was stretched physically during the contest, recovered from a 3-0 deficit in the deciding set to beat Aggarwal 6-1, 5-7, and 7-5 after nearly three hours of action. I think I started feeling a little weak physically. There was no energy in my legs. I was somehow trying to push myself and try to do my best. I thought the second set would be very crucial to finish it off in straight sets. I was also down in the third set, but Im glad that I was able to find a way and get through, Sureshkumar said. I just tried to stay there because the match can turn at any point in time. He might get nervous, or something like that could happen. I was just trying not to give up and trying my best, and Im glad that it worked in the end, he added. Sureshkumar will face his doubles partner Sinha in the last four after the third seed defeated eighth seed Rohan Mehra 7-6 (7-5) in two hours and 22 minutes. I think it was a good match and a lot of ups and downs in both sets. I just tried to focus on every single point and try to focus more on my service points and see how it goes, Sinha said. Sureshkumar and Sinha later combined to reach the mens doubles final, defeating fourth seeds Jagmeet Singh and Parth Aggarwal 6-1, 6-4. The top-seeded pair will take on Srikar Doni and Rohith Gobinath in Fridays final. Suraj R Prabodh, who had earlier knocked out second seed Aditya Balsekar, continued his impressive run with a 6-3, 6-4 win over R Jaisinghani. He will face sixth seed Maan Kesharwani, who defeated Pranav Karthik 6-2, 6-4. In the womens singles, top seed and two-time champion Vaidehee Chaudhari overcame a second-set setback to beat fifth seed Aditi Rawat 6-0, 1-6, 6-2 and book her semi-final spot. In the second set, she played really well. I played badly, but she played really well. And in the third set, I was 1-2 down, but I hung in there, and I won five straight games. I was just thinking, lets hang in there and just focus on one point, Chaudhari said. Chaudhari will meet fourth seed Sonal Patil, who edged past Laxmi Siri Dandu 7-6 (8-6), 6-4. Second seed Shruti Ahlawat defeated eighth seed Sohini Mohanty 6-4, 6-4 to set up a semi-final against unseeded Soha Sadiq. Sadiq advanced after third seed Akanksha Nitture retired while trailing 0-3 in the opening set due to an upper-limb spasm. In the junior events, seventh seed Aahan Aahan stunned top seed Savitha Bhuvaneswaran 6-4, 6-2 in the girls U-18 singles quarter-finals. Second seed Parthsarthi Mundhe and Harsha Oruganti also reached the last four, while Riddhi Shinde ousted third seed Shreeniti Chowdhury 7-6 (7-3), 1-6, 6-2. In the boys U-18 singles, fourth seed Om Ramesh Patel, 15th seed Yashwin Dahiya, unseeded Srikar Doni and Ribhav Saroha advanced to the semi-finals. The U-18 doubles finals are also set. Top seeds Praneel Sharma and Aditya Mor will face third seeds. Raghav Sarode and Om Ramesh Patel are in the boys final, while fourth seeds Sree Syleswari Velmanikandan and Riddhi Shinde will take on third seeds Sanmitha Harini and Savitha Bhuvaneswaran in the girls final. Results: Mens singles quarterfinals: Manish Sureshkumar [1] def. Parth Aggarwal 6-1, 5-7, 7-5 Nitin Sinha [3] def. Rohan Mehra [8] 7-6 (7-5), 7-5 Maan Kesharwani [6] def. Pranav Karthik 6-2, 6-4 Suraj R Prabodh def. R Jaisinghani 6-3, 6-4 Womens singles quarterfinals: Vaidehee Chaudhari [1] def. Aditi Rawat [5]: 6-0, 1-6, 6-2 Shruti Ahlawat [2] def. Sohini Mohanty [8] 6-4, 6-4 Soha Sadiq def. Akanksha Nitture [3] 3-0 retired. Sonal Patil [4] def. Laxmi Siri Dandu 7-6 (8-6), 6-4 Mens doubles semifinals: Manish Sureshkumar [1]/ Nitin Kumar Sinha [1] def. Jagmeet Singh [4] / Parth Aggarwal [4] 6-1, 6-4 Rohith Gobinath / Srikar Doni def. Aditya Balsekar [3] / Pranav Karthik [3] 6-3, 2-6, 10-6 Womens doubles semifinals: Aishwarya Jadhav / Aakruti Sonkusare def. Arzan Khorakiwala/Akansha Ghosh 6=2, 7-5 Lakshmi Arunkumar / Samhitha Chamarthi vs Sonal Patil [3] / Pooja Ingale [3] Boys U-18 singles quarterfinals: Om Ramesh Patel [4] def. Aditya Mor 6-4, 6-2 Srikar Doni def. Raghav Sarode [12] 6-2, 6-2 Yashwin Dahiya [15] def. Veer Jiten Madam 3-6, 6-4, 7-5 Ribhav Saroha def. N Badrinarayanan 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 Girls U-18 singles quarterfinals: Aahan Aahan [7] def. S Bhuvaneswaran [1] 6-4, 6-2 Parthsarthi Mundhe [2] def. Iha Joshi 6-1, 4-6, 6-1 Riddhi Shinde def. Shreeniti Chowdhury [3] 7-6 (7-3), 1-6, 6-2 Harsha Oruganti def. Anjhalle Meka 6-1, 6-1 Boys U-18 doubles semifinals: Praneel Sharma / Aditya Mor [1] def. Veer Jiten Madam/Ribhav Saroha 6-2, 0-6, 10-5 Raghav Sarode/Om Ramesh Patel [3] def. Prateek Sheoran/Kushagra Arora 7-6 (7-2), 3-6, 10-8 Girls U-18 doubles semifinals: Sree Syleswari Velmanikandan / Riddhi Shinde [4] def. Ranjhana Sangram / Sarena Gahlot 6-1, 6-2 Sanmitha Harini / S Bhuvaneswaran [3] def. Shibani Gupte / Tanusshri Sathesh [2] 6-3, 6-1
Andhra Pradesh secured Rs 22 lakh crore investment in 28 months: Chandrababu Naidu
Digital Desk | New Delhi/Amaravati, Oct 8 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh secured investments totalling Rs 22 lakh crore during the past 28 months, Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu said on Thursday. The state government is moving forward with the Build AP motto, aiming to transform Andhra Pradesh into the country's premier destination for investments, industries, and employment generation, he said at the CII Partnership Summit 2026 curtain-raiser event in New Delhi, in the presence of Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. According to an official release, Naidu briefed industrialists on investment opportunities in the state, the support provided by the Centre, ongoing projects across various sectors, and the future roadmap. The Chief Minister noted that agreements worth Rs 13.50 lakh crore were signed during the partnership summit held last year, emphasising that the focus is not merely on signing MoUs but on converting them into tangible investments. He said prominent companies, such as ArcelorMittal and Google, are setting up operations in Andhra Pradesh. The industrial incentives escrow account, as previously declared, would be launched on November 12-13, he said, and revealed that the NALA Act, which posed a hurdle to investments, has been repealed. He affirmed that Andhra Pradesh is ready to immediately implement any policy that fosters state progress. The Chief Minister noted that Speed of Doing Business is being implemented to capitalise on the immense opportunities available in the agriculture, industrial, and service sectors. He stated that interconnecting the Godavari, Krishna, Penna, Tungabhadra, and Cauvery rivers would eliminate water scarcity for Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. He mentioned the goal of transforming Rayalaseema into a global horticulture hub and reiterated the aim of making Andhra Pradesh a gateway to Southeast Asia. He told investors that agreements for generating 110 gigawatts of power have already been signed as part of the 500-gigawatt green energy target and mentioned plans to establish a green energy transmission corridor. He further revealed that Mazagon Dockyard Limited has come forward to set up a shipbuilding centre at Dugarajapatnam, while Goa Shipyard has agreed to establish a shipbuilding facility at Machilipatnam. He highlighted that the state's revenue has increased significantly due to the implementation of AI-based technology in GST tax collection. CM Naidu also requested the Central government to establish an international-standard convention centre to host CII partnership summits. He stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is playing a key role in strengthening the nation across all sectors. He congratulated the Prime Minister for his 25 years of uninterrupted public service. He noted that the Prime Minister played a pivotal role in establishing digital infrastructure across the country. He made a mention of India ranking second globally in terms of its magnificent road network and holding a significant position in its railway network. He stated that the Central government and Prime Minister Modi have been proactive in supporting Andhra Pradesh, providing financial assistance for various projects, including the Polavaram project and the construction of the Amaravati capital. Union Minister Goyal stated that Andhra Pradesh plays a crucial role in India's development journey and remains a key destination for entrepreneurs and industrialists. He praised visionary leader Chandrababu Naidu for embracing technology as early as 1998 and creating vast opportunities within the state. He mentioned that Prime Minister Modi and the Central government are extending full support for Andhra Pradesh's development as a 'Sunrise State.' He noted that a Google data centre is being established in Visakhapatnam, alongside a Quantum Computing Valley in Amaravati. He emphasised that the Centre and the states are working together as 'Team India' for the nation's development. He observed that Andhra Pradesh is attracting massive investments by leveraging the opportunities provided by the Centre. He appealed to industrialists to attend the investment summit in Visakhapatnam and explore investment opportunities in the state. CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee and President R. Mukundan participated in the meeting.
Delhis LG Inaugurates DDA Sports Cup Hockey Tournament
The DDA Sports Cup Hockey Tournament kicks off in New Delhi, promoting fitness and sports among youth. Delhis LG Inaugurates DDA Sports Cup Hockey Tournament
CBI arrests 4 imposters who wrote bank job exams on behalf of candidates
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday busted an impersonation and cheating network operating across Delhi, Bihar, Haryana and West Bengal and arrested four key operatives, including one CGST Inspector, who undermined the integrity of public examinations for bank jobs. The CBI had registered a First Information Report (FIR) registered on a complaint filed by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS), a statement said. The CBI Special Task Branch Mumbai executed coordinated, multi-state raids and arrested four individuals who fraudulently infiltrated multiple stages of the selection process, including written examinations and interviews by physically posing as candidates, the statement added. The imposters appeared in exams, on behalf of original candidates, undermining the integrity of public examinations and depriving genuine, hardworking aspirants of their rightful opportunities, the CBI said. In a separate case, the CBI arrested the Principal of Kendriya Vidyalaya in Madhya Pradesh's ltarsi, and a middleman on October 7 in a bribery case. The CBI registered the case immediately on allegations that the accused demanded an undue advantage of Rs 3 lakh from Bhopal-based firms which were awarded the renovation work at the school. The bribe amount was demanded for releasing payment of pending bills -- amounting to Rs 8 lakh -- of the firms pertaining to work orders issued to these firms by school through Government e-Marketplace (GeM), a CBI statement said. The CBI laid a trap and caught the accused Principal Shraddha Pathak and middleman while accepting an undue advantage of Rs 3 lakh. Searches were conducted at the residential and office premises of the accused in Itarsi and Agra and property-related documents have been seized. The complaint was filed by Rishi Jain whose firm R.J. International Supplier was awaiting release of payment from Pathak. The CBI's Bhopal Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), verified the complaint received from Jain on October 6 in the presence of independent witness, the statement said. During the said verification, demand of Rs 3 lakh in lieu of releasing of payment of pending bills on the part of Shraddha Pathak, Principal of Kendriya Vidyalaya in Itarsi, was confirmed, the CBI FIR said, which was filed after approval from Ganga Ram Punia, CBI/Special Police Establishment's Superintendent of Police of Bhopal ACB.
Mansukh Mandaviya lauds Manipuri athletes, agrees to visit Manipur and National Sports University
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya praised Manipuri players for their performance at the recently concluded Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, during a meeting with Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh in New Delhi. Mandaviya also agreed to visit Manipur and the National Sports University in Imphal shortly.
Delhi Police Uncovers Inter-State Racket Producing Fake Disability Certificates, Nine Arrested
Delhi Police has arrested nine individuals involved in a scheme to create fake disability certificates for college admissions. Delhi Police Uncovers Inter-State Racket Producing Fake Disability Certificates, Nine Arrested
Mamata Banerjee likely to protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar at Jantar Mantar on October 10
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said she is likely to join opposition INDIA bloc protests at Delhis Jantar Mantar on October 10, demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. She also expressed concern over Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, and said she has sought an appointment with President Droupadi Murmu.
Gold rebounds Rs 3,600 to Rs 1.52 lakh per 10g ahead of festive season
New Delhi, Oct 8 (PTI) Gold prices jumped Rs 3,600 to Rs 1.52 lakh per 10 grams in the national capital on Thursday, rebounding from a two-session slide, as buying interest from jewellers and retailers improved ahead of the festive season. The 99.9 per cent purity metal climbed Rs 3,600 to Rs 1,52,500 per 10 grams, inclusive of all taxes, according to the All India Sarafa Association. It had settled at Rs 1,48,900 per 10 grams on Wednesday. Traders said jewellers typically increase gold purchases in the form of raw material ahead of the festive season, when demand for jewellery
States welcome GST reforms, focus on ease of doing business
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) States have welcomed the decisions taken at the 57th meeting of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council on Thursday, describing the latest reforms as an important step towards simplifying the tax regime, easing compliance and addressing the concerns faced by businesses and taxpayers. The meeting, which focused largely on procedural and structural reforms, drew positive reactions from finance ministers and chief ministers of several states, who said the changes would make the GST framework more efficient while improving ease of doing business. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said one of the key strengths of the GST Council is that it brings states together to discuss ways to make the tax framework simpler and provide greater convenience to citizens. She said the meeting also focused on improving the implementation of GST and making the system more effective for taxpayers. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also welcomed the reforms, saying the measures would help reduce difficulties faced by people and make the overall GST system more convenient. West Bengal Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said GST has remained beneficial for states such as West Bengal, with a significant share of the state's revenue coming from the tax. He said the latest structural reforms placed considerable emphasis on rationalising various provisions and strengthening the ease of doing business. Such measures, he added, would provide long-term benefits to states by making the system easier to operate. Dasgupta also acknowledged that ensuring compliance with GST rules had often been a challenge for the state, but said awareness around compliance had improved. He described the Council's deliberations as highly positive. Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna said the GST Council has consistently served as an appropriate forum for addressing grievances raised by businesses and simplifying procedures. He praised the efforts of the Central government and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to make the GST system more taxpayer-friendly and protect businesses from unnecessary difficulties. Khanna also recalled the rate rationalisation undertaken at the September 3 meeting, saying it had provided relief to the common people without compromising government revenues. He said the latest meeting shifted the focus towards easing procedures for businesses, particularly in areas where taxpayers had faced difficulties. From registration to refunds, wherever businesses were facing problems, the processes have now been simplified, Khanna said. He described the measures as a major Diwali gift for the business community and welcomed the steps aimed at providing relief from unnecessary arrests under the GST law. Khanna said the government's approach had been to first provide relief to consumers through rate rationalisation and subsequently address the difficulties faced by businesses through procedural reforms.
NIA court sentences Thai arms smuggler to 6 years imprisonment in NSCN (IM) case
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) A Special NIA Court in Delhi sentenced a Thai national and arms smuggler to six years imprisonment and a fine of Rs 5 lakh in a case relating to an international arms procurement conspiracy of the NSCN (IM), an official said Thursday. Willy Naruenartwanich alias Wuthikorn Naruenartwanich alias Willy was sentenced by the Special Exclusive Court-03 for NIA Cases at Rouse Avenue District Courts on Wednesday, the NIA said in a statement. The court had convicted Naruenartwanich on September 24 for offences under Sections 120B and 122 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The case relates to a conspiracy by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) to procure a large consignment of lethal arms and ammunition from foreign sources, the statement said. The weapons were intended to strengthen the outfits armed cadres and facilitate terrorist activities, besides constituting preparatory acts for waging war against the Government of India, it said. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) registered the case on January 13, 2010, following an order of the Ministry of Home Affairs. According to the investigation, Naruenartwanich, a Thai businessman and arms smuggler based in Bangkok, acted as a middleman and key conspirator in the arms procurement network, the NIA said. He worked in coordination with Anthony Shimray, the NSCN (IM)s chief arms procurer, and facilitated negotiations with representatives of a Chinese arms and ammunition company, it said. The weapons were intended to strengthen the outfits armed cadres and facilitate terrorist activities, besides constituting preparatory acts for waging war against the government of India. The investigation established that the proposed procurement and trans-shipment arrangement was valued at approximately $1.2 million, the NIA said. The conviction and sentencing mark a significant development in the case concerning the international network allegedly used by NSCN (IM) for procurement of arms and ammunition from foreign sources, it said.
BJP tells Revanth to focus on farmers issues, not Delhi protest
CM Naidu meets PM Modi, seeks support for Andhra projects
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Oct 8 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi and sought the Centres support for major infrastructure projects in the state. The Chief Minister raised several key issues concerning the development of Andhra Pradesh. According to an official release here, he briefed the Prime Minister on major development projects in the State, its economic situation, and issues relating to agriculture and irrigation. On irrigation, the Chief Minister discussed the latest status of the Polavaram project and explained the benefits of linking the Godavari and Cauvery rivers. He said that the GodavariCauvery river-linking project would ensure adequate water availability to the southern States of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The Chief Minister said that road networks and power grids had been developed across the country under NDA governments and that taking forward the river-linking project could pave the way for the creation of a national water grid. The Chief Minister said extensive arrangements were being made in Andhra Pradesh for the Godavari Pushkarams to be held in 2027. He requested the Prime Minister to provide financial assistance for the development projects being undertaken for the Pushkarams. He said devotees from not only the two Telugu States but also from across the country and abroad were expected to attend the Godavari Pushkarams. The Chief Minister informed the Prime Minister that Andhra Pradesh had recorded 53 per cent deficit rainfall due to El Nio impact, which had severely affected the agricultural sector. He explained the measures being taken by the State Government to mitigate the impact of drought. The Chief Minister sought the Centres support for major infrastructure projects in Andhra Pradesh, including the proposed Outer Ring Road in the capital Amaravati. He requested approval for the Visakhapatnam Metro and also briefed the Prime Minister on the proposed Beach Road project. The Chief Minister also explained the objectives of the Swarna Andhra2047 Vision, which seeks to ensure that the benefits of development reach all sections of society. Chandrababu also briefed the Prime Minister on the objectives of the Global Horticulture Hub recently launched at Madanapalle with the support of the Centre. He informed him that the foundation stone had been laid for the Indian School of Agriculture, on the lines of the Indian School of Business. Congratulating the Prime Minister on completing 25 years as head of the government, Chandrababu Naidu stated that he was transforming India into a global power through foresight, clear goals, decisive action and effective governance. The Chief Minister praised PM Modis rare achievement in serving the nation and lauded his inspirational leadership as both Chief Minister and Prime Minister. The Chief Minister particularly appreciated the Prime Ministers emphasis on cooperative federalism, making the States partners in the journey towards Viksit Bharat. He said PM Modi had also enhanced Indias stature and credibility in international affairs.
