Delhi News

As Nitish naqab row escalates, Giriraj says woman can go to hell

New Delhi/Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was in the crosshairs of controversy for the fourth day on Thursday a Union minister defending his act of pulling down a Muslim womans veil, his colleague looking to put a lid on the row while the chorus of outrage from across sections grew louder. The incident, [] The post As Nitish naqab row escalates, Giriraj says woman can go to hell appeared first on The Navhind Times .

LS nod to G RAM G Bill amid Oppn uproar

New Delhi: Lok Sabha on Thursday passed a bill to replace the 20-year-old scheme MGNREGA amid tearing of papers by opposition members who accused the government of destroying the rural economy and ignoring the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. In a spirited reply to the eight-hour discussion on the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika [] The post LS nod to G RAM G Bill amid Oppn uproar appeared first on The Navhind Times .

No PUC, No Fuel In Delhi: Over 3,700 Vehicles Challaned, 568 Turned Back In First 24 Hours

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the figures reflected both strict enforcement and growing public cooperation.

Promoting tourism in J&K through multiple schemes: Centre

New Delhi, Dec 18:The Centre is promoting tourism in Jammu and Kashmir through multiple schemes aimed at destination development and strengthening tourism infrastructure, Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat told the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. Replying to a parliamentary question, Shekhawat, said the Ministry of Tourism is promoting destinations and tourism experiences across the country, [] The post Promoting tourism in J&K through multiple schemes: Centre appeared first on Northlines .

Delhi Red Fort Blast Case: Ninth accused arrested, sent to NIA custody till December 26

The NIA has made another arrest in connection to the Delhi Red Fort blast, capturing Yasir Ahmad Dar, the ninth individual linked to this chilling case. Reports suggest that he played a significant role in plotting the attack, having made pledges for sacrificial acts.

34,428 Km new railway tracks added in J&K; terrain, land issues persist

New Delhi, Dec 17:The delays in several railway infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir are linked to different challenges like land acquisition, forest clearances, difficult terrain and other statutory issues, the Union Ministry said on Thursday. However, the Centre has asserted that it is making sustained efforts to expedite the execution of these projects. The [] The post 34,428 Km new railway tracks added in J&K; terrain, land issues persist appeared first on Northlines .

Centre approves 44 Flood Management Projects for J&K

New Delhi, Dec 18:The Centre has approved 44 flood management projects for Jammu and Kashmir since the Eleventh Plan, through an estimated cost of 2,594.12 crore; of this, 805.27 crore has been released as central assistance till March 2025. The Ministry of Jal Shakti informed the Lok Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir has received [] The post Centre approves 44 Flood Management Projects for J&K appeared first on Northlines .

2,961 signal failures per annum in South West Railways cause for concern: CAG

NEW DELHI: Substantial cases of signal failures at an average of 2,961 incidents per annum in the South Western Railway zone reflect poorly on the reliability and availability of signalling systems, according to a report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) tabled in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. The audit examined the performance of the Signal and Telecommunication (S&T) Department of three Divisions, Hubballi, Bengaluru and Mysuru, of South Western Railway (SWR) during the period from 2018-19 to 2022-23. It added that though the cases of accidents in SWR are declining, cases of 'Signal Passing At Danger or red signal jump' (SPAD) and wrong interlocking of points which can divert trains to lines already occupied by other trains are a cause for concern. It observed that adequate time was granted to the signal department by halting the train operations, however, cases of signal failures continued to take place in substantial numbers. Safety audit had also pointed out several irregular maintenance practices. Most of the observations were repetitive which suggests that constant monitoring was absent, the report said. It added, There were several instances of abnormal delays in attending to deficiencies pointed out during inspections/joint inspections by the safety department. The auditors found several cases of disconnection or reconnection of signalling equipment in contravention of Railway Board orders which mandated that no disconnection/ reconnection should be resorted to without issuing a disconnection memo to the station master and obtaining necessary approvals. The report has recorded several cases of non-compliance with deficiencies pointed out during joint inspections by the safety audit. For instance, deficiencies pointed out during the joint inspection of points and crossings at Bellary station yard in December 2020 were not attended to for three months till March 2021. In another case in Kudatini station yard, the CAG said the deficiency regarding broken sleepers at the point region was not attended to even after one year by March 2021. The report has also mentioned a case of averted head-on collision of two trains, one involving train no. 12649 Sampark Kranthi Express. It said that due to the negligence of staff, the track was interlocked in such a way that it made a route for the passenger train to a line already occupied by another train. This serious anomaly was noticed by the loco pilot who stopped the train before Point No. 65A. Had the train not been stopped before the wrongly set point, it would have moved in the down line leading to a head-on collision with a goods train moving in the down line, the report said. Railway Administration replied that in view of the implications on safety, action was being taken against staff carrying out works without following the procedure of issuing disconnection/re-connections, under discipline & appeal rules and deterrent penalty imposed, it added. Further, safety audit reports also pointed out several lapses regarding the disconnection/ reconnection of the signalling system. Auditing the provision of an indigenous train collision avoidance system (TCAS or KAVACH) on a low-density railway network for 1563 route kilometres, the CAG said that the work was sanctioned in 2020-21 for a value of Rs 469 crore. It added that even after a lapse of more than three years of sanction, the detailed estimate had not been prepared for the work by March 2024 and its non-execution resulted in the non-availability of TCAS in SWR. thus, the envisaged benefits of the works to improve the reliability of signalling systems in stations, level crossings and provision of Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) and Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) in stations could not be obtained, it added and recommended several measures to improve the train operation safety. Signal equipment failures, though showing a declining trend, are taking place in significant numbers. Maintenance mechanisms are required to be made more effective to avoid the incidences of signal failures, the CAG recommended. Disconnection/ reconnections of signalling assets are to be done as per rules. Maintenance staff are to be counselled for addressing signalling issues, it added, mentioning several other safety checks.

CM Naidu To Meet Six Union Ministers in Delhi Today

AP CM to hold high-level talks on infrastructure, finance and key development works

Fantastic Experience: Fans Praise Delhi Leg Of Lionel Messi's India Tour

Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi's G.O.A.T India Tour ended on a high note in Delhi's Arun Jaitley stadium on Monday after a chaotic beginning in Kolkata.

Operation Sindoor highlighted Indias decisive air power, says Rajnath Singh

The Indian Air Force is a technologically advanced, operationally agile, strategically confident and future-oriented force, he says at Commanders Conclave in New Delhi

Test National Cricket Championship For Deaf Off To Grand Opening In Kolkata

The Indian Deaf Cricket Association: The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), on Thursday, kicked off the 4th edition of the Test National Cricket Championship for Deaf in Kolkata in a grand opening ceremony held at Merlin Rise Pavilion, Kolkata. The nearly week-long Test series will have two semifinal cricket matches played simultaneously at Kolkatas Merlin Rise Cricket Ground and Rajasthan Club Ground from December 18 to 23. The winners of the semifinals will then compete for the champions trophy in the Final Test match from December 21 to 23. While semifinal 1 will be played between Delhi and Bengal, semifinal 2 will have Odisha and Jammu and Kashmir competing for a place in the Final. Winning the toss against host Bengal, Delhi elected to bowl first; while winning their toss against Odisha, Jammu and Kashmir also elected to bowl. The IDCA 4th Test National Cricket Championship for the Deaf is being organised under the patronage of Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla Group, and will run from December 18 to 23, 2025, bringing together some of Indias most talented hearing-impaired cricketers from across the four states. Speaking about the championship, Sumit Jain, President, IDCA, said, The 4th Test National Cricket Championship for the Deaf will be a testing ground for all the players as it will be played in two innings across three days. While the players are used to playing a shorter format of the game, a Test match will not only test their fitness but also their consistency to play well for four innings across three days. With this series, we also aim to celebrate the spirit, resilience, and talent of our hearing-impaired athletes and show our fighting spirit. With the generous support of the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, Merlin Rise Group management and our partners, we are continuing to create a strong platform for differently abled cricketers to shine on a national stage, he said. Thanking the support partners, Roma Balwani, CEO, IDCA, added, I am really happy that the 4th Test National Cricket Championship is taking place in Kolkata. Our aim of bringing together talented players who represent the strength of inclusivity in sports would not be possible without our partners' continued support. I am especially grateful to our venue partner, Merlin Rise Pavilion, for providing us with this wonderful location and EIILM - Kolkata for their volunteers and immense support. The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) was founded in 2020 by Sumit Jain, President of IDCA and Vice President & member of DCCI (Differently Abled Cricket Committee, BCCI). Registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860, IDCA is committed to developing cricket among deaf athletes in India and providing them with opportunities at state, national, and international levels. Thanking the support partners, Roma Balwani, CEO, IDCA, added, I am really happy that the 4th Test National Cricket Championship is taking place in Kolkata. Our aim of bringing together talented players who represent the strength of inclusivity in sports would not be possible without our partners' continued support. I am especially grateful to our venue partner, Merlin Rise Pavilion, for providing us with this wonderful location and EIILM - Kolkata for their volunteers and immense support. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mukhopadhyay was also joined by Abhijit Ghosh, Director (HR & CA), and Romon Sebastian Louis, Director (Service Business) - Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd, as guests of honour. Article Source: IANS

Parliamentary panel calls for strict implementation of Land Acquisition Act in its entirety and true spirit

NEW DELHI: A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has urged the strict implementation of the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (RFCTLARR) in its entirety and true spirit, especially in scheduled areas. Though the Land Acquisition Act is already in force, the demand for its full implementation persists due to its key safeguards, such as mandatory gram sabha consent, thorough Social Impact Assessments, protection against forced or unfair acquisition, and full rehabilitation and resettlement before displacement, which are still not strictly followed. Chaired by Lok Sabha MP Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka, the committee also recommended the integration of the LARR Act with the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006. The Committee, in its report, stated that the integration will ensure that land acquisition in forest areas cannot proceed without the recognition and settlement of forest rights under the FRA and without the written consent of the Gram Sabha, as required by the FRA. Another significant recommendation of the panel is to grant more authority to Gram Sabha by making their consent mandatory for all land acquisitions, not just in Scheduled Areas, and to empower Gram Sabha to veto land acquisition proposals that do not align with local development plans or community interests. On the Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), the committee recommended that DoLR ensure that both EIA and SIA are being strictly followed as per the guidelines envisioned in the LARR Act. To ensure fair and adequate compensation in tribal areas, the panel recommended treating every acquisition in Scheduled Areas and other tribal dominated blocks as needing a fuller livelihood value along with the cash land value. Tostrengthen Rehabilitation and Resettlement for Displaced Tribal families, the Committee recommended strict operational Compliance which include no possession or physical displacement until (i) replacement house site or agricultural land is surveyed, pegged and soiltested, (ii) core services (allweather access road, safe drinking water source, lighting, drainage, primary school access, health subcentre) are functional, and (iii) community resource mapping (grazing, forest access, cultural/sacred paths, local market space) is completed and legally secured instruments issued. On Rehabilitation and resettlement, the Committee recommended that the Ministry strengthen the National Monitoring Committee structurally and functionally to actively intervene in such cases, establish clear monitoring guidelines and timelines, set up a centralised grievance redressal portal, and ensure that cumulative impact assessments, Gram Sabha processes, and entitlements are implemented in full letter and spirit of the RFCTLARR Act. On the recognition of the livelihood of people in Lakshadweep, land acquisition by private and government players under the LARR Act, the Committee recommended strict implementation of LARR provisions in letter and spirit, without dilution or procedural bypass, so that any project enclosing or reclaiming Government coastal or lagoon land, first conducts a proper Social Impact Assessment. Assessment lists all livelihood users (fishers, gleaners, net menders, boat repairers, vendors), documents three-year livelihood dependence through Panchayat and cooperative records, seasonal calendars, photographic or GPS evidence, examines and discloses genuine alternative siting or design (alignment adjustment, shared jetty relocation without blocking traditional access). It also applies the bare minimum land test to avoid alienation of working shore, and integrates relocation or replacement access (equivalent landing beach, safe navigation channel, drying and net mending space, storage shelter, path to market) as part of the Rehabilitation and Resettlement plan before any possession. On the recognition of livelihood users in Great Nicobar under the LARR Act, the committee recommended strict implementation of the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act 2013. It will aid to treat all people whose primary livelihood depends on Great Nicobars forests, coasts, creeks, beaches, reef flats and common paths as affected families under Section 3(c) of the Act, even where the land is recorded as Government or forest land.

Photo: Winter Session of Parliament

Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during Parliaments Winter session, in New Delhi, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. (PTI Photo/Salman Ali)(PTI12_18_2025_000273A) THIRD PARTY IMAGE; SCREENGRAB VIA SANSAD TV** New Delhi: AAP MP Sanjay Singh speaks in the Rajya Sabha during the Winter session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. Members in the Rajya Sabha during 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 .

India is monitoring Chinas growing footprint in Bangladesh: MEA

NEW DELHI: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has told a parliamentary committee that India is closely monitoring Chinas expanding presence in Bangladesh, particularly in strategic infrastructure, ports and defence-related projects. It added that New Delhis ties with Dhaka remain independent of third-country relationships, according to a report on the future of India-Bangladesh relations tabled in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. Responding to queries from the Standing Committee on External Affairs, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, on how India plans to strengthen bilateral cooperation with Bangladesh, the MEA said that the government will continue to monitor developments having a bearing on Indias national interests and will take all necessary measures to safeguard them. The committee specifically raised concerns about Chinas growing role in Bangladesh, including infrastructure investments, military cooperation and port development. On the Mongla Port and the Lalmonirhat airbase, the MEA said the government remains watchful of Chinese presence in Bangladesh and the nature and implications of Chinese projects under implementation. Bangladesh signed a government-to-government agreement with China in March 2025 for a USD 370 million expansion of Mongla Port. The MEA said that India has sought to secure its interests by financing the KhulnaMongla railway line to improve hinterland connectivity to the port, a project that has already been completed. India also has an Agreement with Bangladesh on the Use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports, providing India with transit access. On reports of Chinese involvement in developing the Lalmonirhat airbase, the MEA referred to a Bangladesh Army briefing on 26 May 2025 in which the Director of Military Operations clarified that there are currently no plans to upgrade the airstrip for military use. Centre summons Bangladesh envoy over security concerns at Dhaka mission Asked about the strategic implications of these developments, particularly for the sensitive Siliguri Corridor, the Ministry reiterated that it continues to monitor developments having a bearing on Indias national interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in testimony before the committee, underlined that Chinas engagement in Bangladesh is not new. China has had a presence in Bangladesh for quite some time. Chinese projects have been present in Bangladesh for quite a long time The Chinese are engaging all sections of opinion in Bangladesh, he said, referring to contacts between China and groups such as Jamaat-e-Islami. Experts appearing before the committee highlighted the need for India to strengthen regional platforms. One non-official witness said: I do feel sub-regional groups can be leveraged, pointing to BIMSTECs transport connectivity master plan backed by the Asian Development Bank. Even if there are difficulties in bilateral relations, using the platform of BIMSTEC, connectivity projects can be taken forward, the witness added. The committee also questioned why India did not anticipate Bangladeshs recent political turmoil despite warning signs. In response, the MEA said it regularly monitors developments in Bangladesh as a priority. It pointed out that although the Awami League won 224 of 300 seats in the January 2024 elections, voter turnout was only around 40%. Facts and trends speak for themselves, the submission said, while stressing that India does not interfere in Bangladeshs internal political processes. Dhaka police stop march to Indian mission as India summons Bangladesh envoy The Foreign Secretary told the panel there has been no change in Indias overall approach after the events of August 2024. We remain interested in a constructive, pragmatic, mutually-beneficial, and forward-looking relationship with Bangladesh, he said, while acknowledging concerns over increased extremism, attacks on minorities, and the overall bilateral environment. India has continued engagement with Bangladeshs interim government, including Foreign Office Consultations in December 2024, where New Delhi reiterated support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive Bangladesh. Concrete steps cited by the MEA include the opening of a new gate at Petrapole land port and a tripartite agreement enabling transmission of 40 MW of power from Nepal to Bangladesh through India. The committee also had experts' warnings that India faces its greatest strategic challenge in Bangladesh since the Liberation War of 1971, marked by political realignment and intensifying Chinese and Pakistani influence. However, the expert also noted stabilising factors, including Bangladeshs strong cultural identity, mass-based political parties and a professional military.

Red Fort blast case: Ninth accused sent to NIA custody till Dec 26

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Thursday remanded Yasir Ahmad Dar, the ninth accused arrested in a case related to the Red Fort blast, to NIA custody till December 26. Special Judge Prashant Sharma allowed the plea of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) seeking Dars custodial interrogation. The accused was produced in the Patiala House 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 .

Construction, Traffic, Forest Fires: What's Driving AQI Spike In Uttarakhand

The air quality in many cities of Uttarakhand, often seen as a refuge by those looking to briefly escape the poor to severe AQI in Delhi-NCR and surrounding regions, has seen a dip in the past week.

Air pollution now year-round public health crisis, threatening Indias growth: Experts

New Delhi: Health experts and policymakers on Thursday warned that prolonged exposure to pollution is fuelling a sharp rise in strokes, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, neurological disorders such as Alzheimers, and mental health conditions, while placing a growing pressure on the healthcare system. Speaking at the Illness to Wellness (ITW) Conference here, medical experts presented 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 .

Indias space sector raised USD 150 mn this fiscal so far: Pawan Goenka

New Delhi: Indias space industry has raised USD 150 million in funding this financial year so far, the highest ever since the government unleashed reforms by opening up the segment for the private sector in 2020. This year will have the highest ever funding in the space sector. The 150-million-dollar mark was reached two days 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 .

BIG blow to IHFL, ED major crackdown on dubious loans, FIR registered against Sameer Gehlaut in Rs 10000 crore fraud case

In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has major step on cracking down on individuals and companies misusing loan funds meant for businesses. The prove agency has targeted those who borrow loans against companies and divert the money for personal gain, with several high-profile cases already under investigation An FIR has been filed against Sameer Gehlaut, co-founder of Indiabulls Housing Finance (IHFL), and several other companies for allegedly embezzling Rs 10,000 crore in funds. The Financial Offenses Wing of Delhi Police is investigating the case, which involves dubious loans disbursed by IHFL to various companies, including Reliance ADAG, DLF Group, and Vatika Group.

India faces its greatest strategic challenge in Bangladesh since 1971: Parliamentary committee on external affairs

The panel says New Delhi could end up losing the strategic space in Dhaka without necessary recalibration

Fog hits operations at Delhi airport, 27 flights cancelled; Indigo cancels 59 flights

Mumbai: As many as 27 flights of various airlines were cancelled and many more delayed at Delhi Airport on Thursday due to dense fog and subsequent drop in visibility, an official source said. Meanwhile, IndiGo cancelled 59 flights in its domestic network, as per the airlines website. As of now, 27 flights are cancelled 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 .

'Dont cheat cricket fans': Shashi Tharoor urges BCCI to shift winter matches to South India

NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Thursday urged authorities to avoid scheduling international matches in north India between mid-December and mid-January, citing persistent fog and poor visibility during the winter months. He suggested that matches during this period should instead be held in southern states, where weather conditions are more conducive to play, so that cricket fans do not feel cheated. Tharoors remarks came a day after the fourth T20 international between India and South Africa at Lucknows Ekana Stadium was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to dense smog and poor visibility. The match cancellation sparked criticism of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI )'s decision to host fixtures in north India during peak winter. Fourth India vs South Africa T20I called off due to fog in Lucknow, Gill set to miss last game with toe injury Speaking to reporters in the Parliament House complex, Tharoor said: My concern is that from the middle of December till the middle of January, every place in northern India is subject to fog, and you know perfectly well about it; it becomes impossible for cricketers to even see the ball. Describing the frustration among fans after the abandoned match, he added, Yesterday, the whole nation was frustrated that we could not have the match between South Africa and India. So, my argument simply is that during this period, schedule the matches in South India. During his interaction with the media, Tharoor also had a light-hearted exchange with BCCI Vice President and fellow Congress MP Rajeev Shukla, who happened to be passing by. Calling out to him, Tharoor remarked, Come and play in South India at this time. Highlighting Keralas readiness to host international cricket, the Thiruvananthapuram MP said: My Thiruvananthapuram has a wonderful stadium, we are ready to host people. Come and play. He pointed out that the Indian womens cricket team is already scheduled to play there towards the end of December. Tharoor stressed that weather conditions must be a key factor in planning fixtures. We should urge the BCCI to take the weather conditions into account when scheduling, he said. Kerala is ready, and I am sure other southern places are not going to have this kind of fog and poor visibility. So from mid-December to mid-January, no cricket matches in north India, please dont cheat cricket lovers. Earlier, Tharoor had also raised the issue in a post on X on Wednesday night, noting that cricket fans in Lucknow had been waiting in vain for the match to begin due to dense smog and an air quality index of 411, while Thiruvananthapuram, he said, had an AQI of around 68 at the same time.

2 held for stealing four mobile phones during Messi event in Delhi

New Delhi: The Delhi Police has arrested two men for stealing four mobile phones during football icon Lionel Messis G.O.A.T. India Tour event at the Arun Jaitley Stadium here, officials said on Thursday. Police said the arrests were made after multiple complaints were received of mobile phone thefts during the event on December 15. Acting 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 .

Div Com Reviews Progress Of National Highway Projects In Jammu Division

JAMMU, Dec 18: Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar today reviewed progress of different National Highway Projects and major road projects being implemented across Jammu Division by National Highway Authority of India, NHIDCL and Border Roads Organisation. The Divisional Commissioner was apprised of the progress of package wise stretches of Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, Jammu-Poonch National Highway, Buddal-Mahore-Gul road and highways being developed by NHIDCL in Chenab Valley region. Regarding Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, the Divisional Commissioner directed for speedy completion of 3 KM over [] The post Div Com Reviews Progress Of National Highway Projects In Jammu Division appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Circumstantial proof needs to be consistent with guilt: SC

New Delhi: Circumstantial evidence can be used to convict an accused in a criminal case if it is of such a nature that is consistent only with his guilt, the Supreme Court said on Thursday. Setting aside the conviction and life sentence of a man accused in a 2004 murder case, a bench of Justices 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 .

Parliament passes nuclear energy Bill

NEW DELHI: Parliament on Thursday passed the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill with the Rajya Sabha giving its nod to the legislation by a voice vote. The Bill, which was passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, seeks to open the tightly-controlled civil nuclear sector for private participation. Initiating the discussion in the Upper House, the Minister of State of the Department of Atomic Energy, Jitendra Singh, said that nuclear energy is a reliable 24/7 power supply source. He asserted that no compromise would be made with the safeguard mechanism in place. Replying to a discussion on the Bill, Singh also sought to allay fears of radiation, stating that so far there has been no report of any radiation-related hazards to the public. It is for the first time after 2014, priority is being given to global concerns, be it climate, energy, energy security or clean energy, the minister added. Singh told the House that there would be a diversion towards clean energy for a number of reasons, as the entire world is moving towards it, and it is important for us to achieve the goal in toto, so that India becomes less dependent on petroleum resources or fossil fuel sources. However, the Opposition questioned the government for allowing private operators into the nuclear power sector, stating that it could impact the sovereignty of the country. While participating in the discussion on the Bill, the Congress MP Jairam Ramesh took a jibe at the Centre for coining catchy acronyms and colourful titles for legislation. He further stated that an impression is made that everything in India started in 2014, especially programmes related to atomic energy, space and technology. SHANTI Bill: Opposition slams 'oligarchisation' of nuclear energy, raises serious safety, liability concerns He noted that the first Bill about atomic energy in Independent India was passed not in 1962, but on April 6, 1948, and stated that there was a debate after Jawaharlal Nehru moved the Bill. At least 30-40 members participated in the debate. On April 06, 1948, the first Atomic Energy Act was passed. On May 22, 1948, PM Nehru presented a cabinet note on what the countrys atomic energy policy should be. On August 15, 1948, the Atomic Energy Commission was established with Dr Homi Bhabha as its chairman, and KS Krishnan and Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar as members, and it reported directly to the Prime Minister, said the Congress MP, who is also general secretary of the party. He opposed the Bill, saying there is a need for further consultations before bringing such crucial legislation. He further stated that the government may have many compulsions, such as the US, foreign firms, and domestic private firms, but a Bill should not be introduced under compulsion. 'Dangerous leap': Opposition flags risks as ruling MPs back private push in nuclear energy Bill If we ignore our public sector and promote the private sector, then it is not in the interest of our nation. I am a supporter of the private sector. But it cannot be a growth engine, Ramesh said. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sagarika Ghose said that the Bill is not just flawed but fundamentally dangerous. As a country, are we now prepared to abdicate our sovereign responsibility, gamble with public safety and place one of the most sensitive sectors of the nation at the mercy of crony capitalism and government-friendly oligarchs as well as foreign pressure?... This Bill is not a reform; it is recklessness. This Bill is not for the public, it's for profit, she said. DMK MP P Wilson said that the Bill is a nuclear bomb that threatens the country's peace and security. The nuclear supply chain is sought to be removed from the sovereign functions and from the Union of India government's active oversight. There is nothing peaceful, nothing sustainable, nothing transformative about this legislationOn the contrary, it is a reckless, dangerous and deeply flawed attempt to privatise one of the most sensitive and high-risk sectors of a nation, he said.

Nagesh Trophy: Vidarbha, Goa, Andhra, Uttarakhand, And Jharkhand Win On High-scoring Day

National T20 Cricket Tournament: Vidarbha, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, and Jharkhand emerged victorious on a high-scoring day that saw some powerful performances in the 8th Edition of the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind at three venues in the country -- Vijayawada, Gandhinagar, and Delhi, on Thursday. The event witnessed a day of emphatic victories with thrilling finishes and commanding all-round performances across multiple venues, reaffirming the depth and competitiveness of blind cricket in India. Vidarbha clinched a hard-fought 13-run victory over Manipur after posting 158/9 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. A composed batting effort, led by Maniklal Dhikar, set the platform before Vidarbhas bowlers held their nerve to restrict Manipur to 145/7. Ganpat was declared the Player of the Match for his match-winning all-round effort. In another match played in Gandhinagar, Goa held firm under pressure to edge past Jammu & Kashmir by 13 runs. Anchored by a fluent 87 off 64 balls from Nilesh, Goa posted 170/8 before disciplined bowling restricted the chase to 157 all out. Nilesh was adjudged Player of the Match for his 87 runs and three wickets. In Vijayawada, hosts Andhra Pradesh delivered a dominant 111-run win, piling up 220/3 with skipper T. Durga Rao (108/ off 67 balls) leading from the front. Uttar Pradesh were bowled out for 109, undone by incisive bowling. T. Durga Rao (B3) was named Player of the Match: In another match at the venue, Uttarakhand produced the most emphatic result of the day, registering a massive 155-run victory. Captain Deepak Singh Rawats scintillating 128 off 75 balls powered Uttarakhand to 232/6, before Tamil Nadu were restricted to 77/7. Deepak Singh Rawat emerged as the Player of the Match: In another match, Delhi stamped their authority with a 106-run win, riding on a sensational unbeaten stand. Rambir Singh (146 off 73 balls) and Sanjay Kumar Shah (98)* powered Delhi to an imposing total, with Telangana finishing on 161/6 in reply. Sanjay Kumar Shah was declared Player of the Match. In another match at the venue, Uttarakhand produced the most emphatic result of the day, registering a massive 155-run victory. Captain Deepak Singh Rawats scintillating 128 off 75 balls powered Uttarakhand to 232/6, before Tamil Nadu were restricted to 77/7. Deepak Singh Rawat emerged as the Player of the Match: Also Read: Live Cricket Score From last-over thrillers to towering run margins, the league stage of the Nagesh Trophy 2025 continues to showcase exceptional skill, resilience, and sporting excellence. As teams build momentum, the tournament promises even more high-intensity encounters in the days ahead. Article Source: IANS

Elephant movement disrupts rail traffic in Jharkhand, several trains cancelled

RANCHI: In the wake of frequent movement of wild elephants along forest-fringed sections under the Chakaradharpur Railway Division in Jharkhand, multiple trains have been cancelled on the up and down line. According to officials, herds of jumbos have been frequently spotted near and across tracks on the NaugaonRourkela, ChakradharpurRourkela and RourkelaJharsuguda sections, falling within identified elephant corridor zones. To avoid any potential mishap, these trains will remain cancelled on December 18 and 19, they said. The trains which have been cancelled include Rourkela MEMU, HatiaJharsuguda MEMU, RourkelaJharsuguda MEMU and the BadampaharBangriposi passenger, affecting both onward and return journeys. Railway authorities said that elephant activity in these sections has increased over the past few days, creating operational risks. Due to frequent movement of elephants, trains running during the night get late due to which there is congestion, leading to the delay of long-distance trains during the day time. To avoid congestion during the day time, most of the trains plying during the night have been cancelled, said senior divisional commercial manager Aditya Choudhary. The situation is being monitored closely in coordination with the Forest Department and the Railway Protection Force, he said, adding that services will be restored once it stabilizes. Elephant herd kills four in a day as villagers panic in Jharkhands Ramgarh Choudhary, however, said that long-distance trains on the Howrah-Mumbai route will run at moderate speed with proper track clearance and thorough surveillance by dedicated teams. In addition, pilots have been directed to follow the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) while moving on sections frequented by elephants, he said. Earlier, on October 31 and November 1, the Chakradharpur railway halted 12 long-distance trains on the up and down line for hours to give safe passage to 22 elephants, which were moving in separate herds, between Bisra and D Cabin section on the Jharkhand-Odisha border. Meanwhile, due to thick fog and poor visibility, flight operations at Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi have also been hit badly. Keeping safety norms in mind, airport authorities have cancelled several flights, while many others are operating with significant delays. Airport officials said runway visibility dropped below the prescribed limits during the morning hours, disrupting flight movements. Flight services are expected to gradually return to normal once weather conditions improve. The cancelled flights include IndiGo 6E 7674 / 7235 (Kolkata Ranchi Kolkata), IndiGo 6E 7561 / 7562 (Kolkata Ranchi Kolkata) and Air India Express IX 1046 / 1047 (Delhi Ranchi Delhi).

VB-G RAM G versus MGNREGA: Here are the major differences

New Delhi: The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025 which was passed by the Lok Sabha on Thursday repeals the MGNREGA and paves the way for a structural transformation of the governments role in the rural employment landscape. Passed in 2005 as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 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 Blast Case: NIA Arrests 9th Accused Who Took Oath For Carrying Out 'Self-Sacrificial' Ops

Yasir Ahmad Dar was produced before Delhi's Patiala House Court, which remanded him to NIA custody till December 26.

26 Indians working in Russian armed forces reportedly died: Govt to RS

New Delhi: Twenty-six Indians working in the Russian armed forces have reportedly died, while seven have been marked as missing by the Russian side, the government told Parliament on Thursday. In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh also said efforts are on Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

West Bengal SIR: ECI begins to send notices for hearing over claims, objections to draft voters list

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has commenced the second phase of SIR from Thursday in West Bengal by sending notices for hearing on the claims and objections to the draft voters list. Sources said the ECI has started sending notices to the unmapped voters -- those voters who have no connection with the voters list for 2002 -- either through self-mapping or through progeny mapping. Self-mapping voters are those who have their names in both the current voters list of October 2025 and the list of 2002, the last time the Intensive Summary Revision (ISR) was conducted in West Bengal. On the other hand, the progeny mapping voters include those whose parents names appear on the list for 2002. The number of unmapped voters in West Bengal currently stands at 30,59,273, according to the draft electoral rolls. Those who will be served with notices for hearing will be given seven days to be present for the hearing. The dates, times, and venues for the hearing will be mentioned in the notices, an ECI official said. These 30,59,273 voters are in addition to the 58,20,899 excluded voters from the earlier list of October 2025, which includes deceased voters, shifted voters, untraceable voters, duplicate voters, and voters suitable for exclusion due to other reasons, the officials said. Meanwhile, the ECI has also identified over 1.60 crore voters, in whose cases weird family-tree data has been detected. It added that many of these voters with doubtful family-tree data would also be summoned for a hearing and be asked to explain the weirdness on this count. The voters with weird family data include those who have fathers and mothers names as the same in the last voters list, voters who became fathers at the age of 15 or even below, and voters who became grandfathers at the age of 40 or even below, they added. An instance has surfaced where the voter has been identified, who supposedly became a father of two sons at the age of five, they said. The final voters list for West Bengal will be published on February 14 next year, and following this, the ECI plans to announce the polling dates for the Assembly elections in the State.

SC Collegium recommends appointment of Chief Justices of five State High Courts

NEW DELHI: In a significant development, the Supreme Court Collegium, in its meeting held on December 18, 2025, has recommended the elevation and appointment of five Judges as Chief Justices to five State High Courts across the country. The SC Collegium said Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta (Allahabad High Court) has been recommended to be the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court. Justice Revati P. Mohite Dere (Bombay High Court) has also been recommended to be the Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court. Similarly, Justice MS Sonak (Bombay High Court) has been recommended to be the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court. Justice A Muhamed Mustaque (Kerala High Court) has been recommended to be the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court. Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo (Orissa High Court) has been recommended to be theChief Justice of Patna High Court. The decision to recommend the Judges' names wastaken by the SC Collegium, which was headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant. This was the second major decision taken by CJI Kant after taking charge on November 24 from CJI B R Gavai (now retired).After theSCCollegium's recommendations, the Centre will deliberate upon names, decide and send its final proposal to the SC Collegium for final decision. TheSCCollegiumis an apex body, headed by the CJI, who decides, recommends and transfers judges to various State High Courts depending upon the expertise, know-how, etc.

US visa appointment times lowest in Chennai; highest in Delhi, Mumbai

Expanded checks, particularly for student, exchange visitor and H-1B applicants and their dependants, have had a bearing on appointment availability, the Ministry said

She can go to hell: Union ministers remark fuels outrage in CM Nitish niqab row

New Delhi/Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was in the crosshairs of controversy for the fourth day on Thursday a Union minister defending his act of pulling down a Muslim womans veil, his colleague looking to put a lid on the row, while the chorus of outrage from across sections grew louder. The incident, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

IndiGo keeps Delhi, Mumbai flights intact, uses Airbus planes on ATR routes

On Thursday IndiGo said it is operating 2200 flights in line with the revised schedule. The airline also said it has completely stabilised its operations across the network starting from December 9

ED raids 13 locations in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi in donkey route case

NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday carried out searches at 13 locations across Punjab, Haryana and Delhi as part of its money-laundering probe into an illegal immigration racket linked to the deportation of 330 Indians from the United States earlier this year. The action follows an investigation into a network that allegedly facilitated the illegal transport of Indians to the US through the so-called dunki route. The racket involved illegally transporting Indians to the US through the dunki route. A probe revealed that the deported Indians sent to the US were facilitated by a complex web of persons involved in the chain including travel agents, middlemen, overseas associates, hawala operators and other logistics arrangement providers, an ED official said. In February, US military aircraft carrying 330 Indiansmost of them from Haryana, Punjab and Gujaratwere sent back as part of a crackdown on illegal immigration by the administration of former US President Donald Trump. Videos released by US border patrol authorities showed the deportees in handcuffs, with their legs chained. The EDs money-laundering case is based on 19 FIRs registered by the Punjab and Haryana Police against travel agents and middlemen accused of cheating Indians attempting to enter the US illegally. Investigators said the deportees had tried to cross the USMexico border between January 23 and 28 but were apprehended by US border security personnel and placed in detention centres before being deported. Sources said that evidence gathered during searches conducted in February and July led to the identification of second and third layer operatives involved in the human trafficking network. The name of several travel firms surfaced in the investigation following which raids were conducted on Thursday at its offices in Haryana, Punjab and Delhi, an ED official said. The agency had earlier recorded statements of the deportees, which helped identify suspects now under scrutiny. According to investigators, each deportee paid between Rs 45 lakh and Rs 55 lakh to travel agents, most of whom they had never met directly and were connected to through local intermediaries. The deportees provided documents, including bank account details of the agents who received the payments. Recently, the ED provisionally attached movable and immovable assets worth Rs 5.41 crore, allegedly representing proceeds of crime generated by agents Shubham Sharma, Jagjit Singh and Surmukh Singh, who are accused of being part of the trafficking racket. The attached properties include agricultural land, residential and business premises, and bank accounts held in the names of the accused and their family members. In July, the agency conducted searches at offices and residences of suspects in 11 cities, including Amritsar, Sangrur, Patiala and Moga in Punjab, and Ambala, Kurukshetra and Karnal in Haryana. During those raids, officials seized fake immigration and visa stamps. In a separate investigation, the ED is probing the alleged involvement of certain Canadian colleges and several Indian entitiesmostly based in Gujaratin a money-laundering case related to trafficking Indians into the US via the Canada border, sources said. Officials noted a sharp rise in illegal immigration from India along the USCanada border, with more than 14,000 Indian migrants arrested there over the past one-and-a-half years. According to estimates by US authorities, over 725,000 undocumented Indians currently live in the US, many driven by economic pressures and long waiting periods for legal immigration. The agency suspects that some Canadian colleges were complicit in the racket. According to officials, agents applied for Canadian student visas for individuals intending to enter the US. Once in Canada, instead of joining colleges, they allegedly crossed the USCanada border illegally. Investigators believe that a few of the 262 such colleges in Canadaparticularly those located near the US bordermay be involved in the trafficking of Indian nationals. Many victims were allegedly charged between Rs 55 lakh and Rs 60 lakh per person. The ED has claimed that fees paid to Canada-based colleges were later remitted back to the individuals accounts, pointing to a circular flow of funds under investigation.

Five babies rescued from trafficking gang, 10 arrested in A.P.

The gang allegedly used to purchase babies from Delhi and Mumbai and sell them to childless couples for 5 lakh, say police

Red Fort Blast: 9th Accused Sent To Anti-Terror Agency NIA's Custody Till Dec 26

A Delhi court on Thursday remanded Yasir Ahmad Dar, the ninth accused arrested in a case related to the Red Fort blast, to NIA custody till December 26.

Red Fort Blast: Court Sends Ninth Arrested Accused To NIA Custody Till Dec 26

New Delhi, Dec 18: A Delhi court on Thursday sent Yasir Ahmad Dar, the ninth person arrested in the Red Fort blast case, to NIA custody till December 26. Special Judge Prashant Sharma allowed the plea of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) seeking custodial interrogation of the accused. Earlier in the day, the NIA arrested Dar, a Jammu and Kashmir resident, allegedly a close associate of suicide bomber Umar-un-Nabi. Dar allegedly played an active role in the conspiracy behind the [] The post Red Fort Blast: Court Sends Ninth Arrested Accused To NIA Custody Till Dec 26 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Delhi Air Quality Worsens Despite Stricter Anti-Pollution Measures

A blanket of haze enveloped Delhi on Thursday, reducing visibility across the city as air pollution worsened, with the 24-hour average AQI in the 'very poor' category with a reading of 373, up from 334 a day earlier, according to official data.

India reaffirms commitment to continue medical, humanitarian aid to Afghanistan

NEW DELHI: India has reaffirmed its commitment to continue humanitarian assistance and healthcare cooperation with Afghanistan, said Union Health Minister JP Nadda. Nadda and the visiting Afghan Minister of Public Health, Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali met on Wednesday night. In the meeting, Nadda reaffirmed New Delhis commitment to Afghanistan and discussed ways to further enhance bilateral cooperation in the healthcare sector. The two sides reviewed the ongoing health cooperation, and discussed ways to further strengthen collaborationin healthcare infrastructure. They also talked aboutmedical supplies and capacity building. Following the talks with the Afghan Health Minister, Nadda wrote on X, Held a productive meeting with Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, Afghan Minister of Public Health. Reaffirmed Indias commitment to continued humanitarian assistance and healthcare cooperation with Afghanistan and discussed avenues to further strengthen this collaboration with particular focus on long term supply of medicines. Made a symbolic handover of cancer medicines and vaccines, reflecting Indias commitment to support the medical needs of the Afghan people. A larger consignment of medicines, vaccines, and a 128-slice CT scanner is also being dispatched to Afghanistan, he added. Held a productive meeting with H.E. Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, Afghan Minister of Public Health. Reaffirmed Indias commitment to continued humanitarian assistance and healthcare cooperation with Afghanistan and discussed avenues to further strengthen this collaboration with pic.twitter.com/LW8KD5lyNl Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) December 17, 2025 India has approved and implemented several key healthcare infrastructure projects in Afghanistan. These include the construction of five maternity and health clinics in the provinces of Paktia, Khost and Paktika, a 30-bed hospital in Kabul, and the construction or upgradation of major facilities such as an oncology centre, trauma centre, diagnostic centre and thalassemia centre in Kabul. Noting that India has supplied 327 tonnes of medicines and vaccines to Afghanistan over the past four years, Nadda said cancer medicines and one CT scan machine, as requested by the Afghan public health ministry, are ready for dispatch and will be delivered by the end of this month, a health ministry statement said. Nadda also said that India would work to ease access to medical treatment for Afghan patients. He also said that India has supplied 327 tonnes of medicines and vaccines to Afghanistan over the past four years. Proposals from the Afghan side for a radiotherapy machine and additional medical supplies are also being processed. India reiterated its commitment to providing free treatment in India to Afghan patients suffering from emergency and serious ailments, and to facilitating medical visas, the statement said. Since the launch of the new Afghan visa module in April 2025, more than 500 visas, including over 200 medical visas, have been issued in the last four months. Nadda also recalled India's broader humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, including the supply of food grains, medicines, vaccines and emergency relief material, as well as support for rehabilitation programmes in partnership with international organisations. The meeting concluded with both sides expressing satisfaction over the ongoing cooperation and reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening healthcare support for the Afghan people, the statement said. The Union Health ministry on X said, India reaffirmed its commitment to continued humanitarian assistance and healthcare cooperation, with a focus on long-term supply of medicines. A symbolic handover of cancer medicines and vaccines was made reflecting India's commitment to support the medical needs of the Afghan people. A larger consignment of medicines, vaccines and a 128-slice CT scanner is also being dispatched to Afghanistan, the ministry said. Afghan Health Minister Jalali also met Minister for AYUSH, Prataprao Jadhav, during which the two sides discussed setting up a traditional medicine institute and research centre in Kabul, training practitioners, and signing a bilateral cooperation agreement.

AP CM Naidu to seek Centers aid for key projects

To meet six Union Ministers in New Delhi on Friday

What Is ANPR? How Delhi Petrol Pumps Use It For Pollution Checks

Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) has rapidly evolved from a regular law enforcement tool into a global smart city technology.

Bangladeshi fishing boats caught for engaging in 'illegal fishing activities' in India's Exclusive Economic Zone

NEW DELHI: A month after the apprehension of Fishing Boats belonging to Bangladesh, for illegal fishing, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Ship, while undertaking routine surveillance operations in the Northern Bay of Bengal, apprehended two Bangladeshi Fishing Boats (BFBs) along with 35 crew members for engaging in illegal fishing activities inside India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The ICG in a statement, said on Thursday that the arrests were made on 16 December for violation of the Maritime Zones of India (MZI) (Regulation of Fishing by Foreign Vessels) Act, 1981. The presence of active fishing gear and approximately 500 kilograms of fish catch clearly indicated ongoing fishing operations inside Indian waters, said ICG. The apprehended boats and crew were taken into custody by the ICG and subsequently handed over to the Marine Police, Frazerganj, on 17 Dec 25 for further legal proceedings in accordance with applicable laws, ICG added. This apprehension underscores the ICG's steadfast commitment to safeguarding India's maritime interests, preventing illegal fishing, and ensuring the safety and security of Indian fishermen operating in the region. ICG continues to maintain a robust presence in India's maritime zones, enforcing maritime law and promoting responsible and lawful use of the seas. A month back, as TNIE earlier reported , the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships apprehended three Bangladeshi fishing boats (BFBs), along with 79 crew members, for engaging in illegal fishing inside India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) on 15 and 16 November 2025. The Bangladeshi fishing boats were detected operating well within Indian waters while an ICG ship was undertaking IMBL surveillance in the northern Bay of Bengal. The ICG statement said, The fishing boats were operating in violation of the Maritime Zones of India (Regulation of Fishing by Foreign Vessels) Act, 1981. Over the last three months, the ICG has apprehended eight Bangladeshi fishing boats with 170 crew members for similar violations.

Delhi Sees Nearly 76 Pc Spike in PUC Issuance Ahead of No PUC, No Fuel Rule Enforcement

Earlier this week, Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced that vehicles without a valid pollution under control (PUC) certificate will not be provided fuel at petrol pumps in the city from Thursday

NIA arrests 9th accused in Delhi Red Fort blast case

According to the NIA, the suspect allegedly played an active role in the conspiracy behind the blast that claimed 15 lives and left many others injured on November 10

NIA arrests Kashmir resident in Red Fort blast case; ninth arrest so far

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday arrested a Jammu and Kashmir resident, who the investigators said was a close associate of alleged suicide bomber Umar-un-Nabi, the prime accused in the Red Fort blast case. This is the ninth arrest in the case. According to the agency, Yasir Ahmad Dar allegedly played an active role in the conspiracy behind the blast that claimed 15 lives and left many others injured on November 10. An active participant in the conspiracy, Dar had allegedly taken an oath for carrying out self-sacrificial operations, the NIA said. The 9th person to be arrested in the case, Yasir Ahmad Dar is a resident of Shopian, Srinagar (J&K). He was nabbed by NIA from New Delhi, and placed under arrest, an NIA spokesperson said in a statement. Dar was in close contact with the other accused persons in the case, including Umar-un-Nabi as well as Mufti Irfan, the agency said. The NIA has so far made nine arrests, including Dr Muzammil Shakeel Ganai of Pulwama, Dr Adeel Ahmed Rather of Anantnag, Dr Shaheen Saeed of Lucknow and Mufti Irfan Ahmad Wagay of Shopian. The agency also arrested Faridabad resident Soyab, who has been accused of providing shelter and logistic support to Umar, Amir Rashid Ali, in whose name the car used for the blast was registered, and Jasir Bilal Wani alias Danish, who provided technical support to Umar. (With inputs from PTI)

Gold price today: How much 22K, 24K gold costs in your city; check rates for Mumbai, Delhi & other cities

Gold prices experienced a slight decline on Thursday, with the February contract falling by Rs 580 to Rs 1,34,314 per 10 grams due to weak global cues. Overseas, Comex gold futures also saw a dip. The article then details the current gold rates for 22K and 24K gold across various Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.

NIA Arrests 9th Accused, A Kashmir Resident, In Red Fort Blast Case

New Delhi, Dec 18: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a Jammu and Kashmir resident, a close associate of suicide bomber Umar-un-Nabi, in connection with the Red Fort area blast, making it the ninth arrest in the case, officials said on Thursday. Yasir Ahmad Dar allegedly played an active role in the conspiracy behind the blast that claimed 15 lives and left many others injured on November 10, they said. An active participant in the conspiracy, Dar had allegedly [] The post NIA Arrests 9th Accused, A Kashmir Resident, In Red Fort Blast Case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Delhi terror attack: NIA nabs Jammu & Kashmir man Yasir who aided Umar Un Nabi; 9th arrest so far

AILET 2026 results declared: NLU Delhi releases scorecards, check category-wise exam participation and download steps

The National Law University, Delhi, has released the AILET 2026 results for B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) and LL.M. programmes. Over 22,500 candidates appeared for the undergraduate exam and nearly 2,800 for the postgraduate test. The results are available on the official website for candidates to download their scorecards.

NIA Arrests Ninth Accused From Jammu Kashmir in Red Fort Blast Case

SRINAGAR: The National Investigation Agency on Thursday arrested another key accused from Jammu and Kashmir in connection with last months car bomb blast near Delhis Red Fort that left 11 people dead and several others injured, officials said. They said the arrested individual is the ninth accused held so far in the case. According to []

AP CM to Visit New Delhi to Seek Centre's Help for Projects

The Chief Minister is scheduled to meet six union ministers on Friday, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and others

NIA Nabs Shopian Resident, Key Conspirator In Deadly Delhi Blast

New Delhi, Dec 18: Tightening the noose around those involved in the deadly Delhi blast near the Red Fort, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested another key accused, taking the total number of arrests in the case to nine. The latest arrest marks a significant breakthrough in unraveling the conspiracy behind the terror attack that claimed 11 lives and left several others injured last month. In a statement, The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested another key accused in [] The post NIA Nabs Shopian Resident, Key Conspirator In Deadly Delhi Blast appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

ED Raids 13 Places In Punjab, Haryana and Delhi in Dunki Route Case

ED's Jalandhar zonal office teams are carrying out searches at these 13 locations based on certain inputs in the case in which the ED initiated an investigation on the basis of various First Information Reports (FIRs) registered related to 330 Indians deported by the USA through a military cargo plane in February 2025

'No one-year separation needed': HC gives important ruling for mutual consent divorce cases, clears faster route

Mutual Divorce: Delhi High Court has delivered a significant ruling for couples seeking divorce. Courts can now waive the mandatory one-year separation period for mutual consent divorces. Judges will not mechanically delay these separations. This decision respects the autonomy of consenting adults. The law will not force couples into unhappy marriages.

AILET 2025 result released at nationallawuniversitydelhi.in: Direct link to download here

The National Law University Delhi has declared the AILET 2026 results for admissions to its undergraduate and postgraduate law programmes. Conducted across 47 centres in 36 cities, the exam saw over 25,000 candidates appear. Female candidates dominated participation, while category-wise data reflected broad representation across social groups. Candidates can visit the official website to download the AILET result 2025.

Why are Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Power, Reliance Infrastructure rising despite sector weakness?

Reliance Power shares rose nearly 7% for a third day as Delhi HC sought clarification in the Jai Anmol Ambani case, lifting group stocks.

Artist Kulpreet Singh Questions Politics of Blaming Stubble Burning for Pollution

Singh participated in the 2020-21 farmers protests on the borders of Delhi against the three farm laws and used ashes from the stoves of protesting farmers at the site in his works.

Giriraj Singhs jahannum mein jaye remarks on woman at centre of naqab row triggers backlash

New Delhi, Dec 18: Amid the Nitish Kumar naqab controversy, Union minister Giriraj Singh on Thursday created a fresh row when he said that it is up to the woman concerned to refuse appointment to the government job or go to hell, drawing flak from many opposition leaders. Singh was responding to Mondays incident in Patna where the Bihar chief minister pulled the naqab (veil) off the face of the newly-recruited AYUSH doctor while she was receiving her letter of [] The post Giriraj Singhs jahannum mein jaye remarks on woman at centre of naqab row triggers backlash appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Men record higher lung deposition of air pollutants in Delhi: Study

New Delhi, Dec 18: Sitting in vehicles stuck in traffic or walking along crowded footpaths as they make their way back home from work, men in Delhi are absorbing more of the citys polluted air into their lungs than women, according to a study conducted over five years. Titled Respiratory deposition of particulate matter in Delhi: A five-year assessment of exposure patterns and health risks, the study was conducted by researchers from the Netaji Subhas University of Technology, Delhi, along [] The post Men record higher lung deposition of air pollutants in Delhi: Study appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Antitrust action: Competition panel launches probe into IndiGo following flight disruptions

IndiGo is facing a PIL in the Delhi High Court following the operational collapse, during which over 4,600 flights were cancelled, which left more than 1.2 million passengers stranded at various airports

Bhajan Banger

Music streams from the speakers in a vast room brimming with zesty souls. The crowd seemingly transported to a world cut away from the one outside. There is adrenaline josh as they clap hands and sing in unison. There is positivity when the peace of music caresses hearts. The outpourings may seem weird to some and pure joy to others. The gathering is a blend of ages the old, the middle-aged and a whole lot of youth as though time barriers have melted away in waves of music. The presence of youth may suggest a wild party. But it is positive and peppy, sans headbanging or theatrics. No EDM, no rock, no big names wielding powerhouse instruments just soothing music. The Nandagovindam group is at play in one of their now-famous BhajanConnect programmes. When we perform to a crowd of many, it is the positive vibe that makes all the difference. We love the way they sit with us, immersed in the music. Its great to see so many youngsters in the crowd, says Naveen Mohan, lead singer of the group. Formed two decades years ago, the team shot to fame during the pandemic when videos of their jam sessions went viral. I saw them first on YouTube while working from home. It was electric, as they mixed popular Malayalam film songs with a devotional twist and jammed together, recalls Harini Narayana G, a market researcher. I could feel something in me move as they sang sthambam pilarkunna hungara shabdam (the deafening sound when the pillar split). I had never felt such magic for a long time. Across India, youngsters grooving tobhajanshas become a visible trend, as the razzmatazz of clubbing joins hands with songs of divine love. Popularly termed bhajanclubbing, it sees large youth congregations vibing to spiritual chants. The Bhajan group from Vattiyoorkavu Sri Sathya Sai temple Singers like Hansraj Raghuvanshi and Jubin Nautiyal have built cult followings, while bands such as the Delhi-based Sadho Band and Vrindavan-based Madhavas Rock Band draw crowds. The following also extends to performers like Radhika Das and Achyut Gopi, a black woman from the US who calls herself a Grammy-nominated Kirtaniya, whose songs can get entire stadiums grooving. This trend picked up pace during the pandemic period, among the youth as well as others. The content is also made knowing the need that people want to engage in something that will soothe them even as it entertains, says Sarath C Kurup, a former Navy officer who is the organiser of the Kochi-based TulasimalaBhajansSamiti. Kerala witnessed a similar surge during the pandemic, with many tuning into groups such as Vishwaroopa, Tulasimala, Sree Radheyam, Thrissul, Nandagovindam and the all-women ShivahariBhajans, whose videos and Facebook Live sessions drew large audiences. Songs by Sivasri Skandaprasad and Shankar Mahadevan in this genre also trended. I feel the trend began even earlier, in spurts, when bands like Agam introduced Carnatic fusion to Keralas youth. Then came rappers like Brodha V and Sheldon Bangera, who lavishly borrowed from Sanskrit chants as they sang about the liberating space in spiritual traditions, says Neeraj Gopalan Shankar, a banker and ardent follower ofbhajanmusic. The folk-tunedbhajannumbers of Kalabhavan Mani, as well as songs like Padivalum Bhadravatakam, further grew into the young populace, leading to them being noticed by singers like the US-based Vidya Vox (Vidya Iyer), who incorporated them in their albums. Now, you have Gen Z watchingbhajangroups and even posting dance covers. Youth engagement withbhajans, Neeraj adds, cannot be seen in isolation. Thebhajangroups are not new sprouts. But now, there is an added affinity towards tradition and culture of the land. There is a going back to the roots trend that can be clearly seen, he notes. Some of the members of the all-woman Sivahari Bhajan group. For Nisha R, founder of the Shivahari group, social and personal anxieties often push people towards a higher power. Here, its via music. This has happened even centuries before. And it is repeating now, she says, while juggling a full-time job at the post office and managing the nine-year-old group that performs over 20 programmes a month. Sarath says passion drives his Tulasimala group too. He believes the shift came whenbhajansacquired a local flavour. Till then,bhajansconstituted mostly Carnatic elements and abhangs, which only a few could enjoy, he says. The Ernakulam-based Thulasimala Bhajan group. The current model came about after people like veteran singer Prashanth Varma reconstructed it with local, relatable flavours. That is the model we all follow now. Manybhajannumbers that went viral were carefully compiled, with popular film tunes carrying devotional themes being tweaked or elaborated. A prominent example is Manohari Radhe from the 2006 film Classmates, which has gained renewed popularity in its extendedbhajanform. The change came about with Kolarishi, a fast-paced Kannada song. Later, Pon Pulari and Manohari Radhe Radhe emerged in thebhajanformat. Now, these songs are all over Kerala sung by the 227bhajangroups that function in the state with national and global reach, says Prashanth Varma. The traditional image of sampradayabhajanshas shifted dramatically. Todays performers may lack the spectacle of rock bands, but they are dressed in traditionally trendy attire, open to Buddhist, Gurbani, Sufi, Hebrew and other chant traditions, adept with technology, and fluent in social media outreach. Their emotional involvement is key. They are not puritan but rooted in a surreal way. It is this trend that turns the youth. The space earlier given to film songs based on changing emotions has been replaced by something they feel is more consistent, says a young member of the Vattiyoorkavu Sathya SaiBhajanGroup, who prefers anonymity. Else, you have to quote all my team members. We recently performed as a team of 10 to a standing ovation. And we are part of a larger group of 20, which includes kids as young as seven or eight. The hugely popular Nanadagovindam Bhajans group. Naveen believes this growing love forbhajansreflects a comfort space sought by young people in an increasingly stressful world. The search is for a sense of inner peace. The role of music is profound, even as studies have proved. Gen Z looks for joys beyond money and fame to create good memories, to bond, and to reach a calm and positive mind space, he says. This need for peace and positivity urges travel and grooving to music that soothes. And the generation that follows will seek solace even more actively. Academically, the trend is often linked to post-pandemic behaviour either indulgence in extremes or a deeper questioning of lifes purpose. This is cyclic as well, says psychiatrist Arun B Nair. After a period of recklessness, there is a seething disinterest that awakens a quest for calm. When people find it in something comforting, placid and beautiful, they feel rested in a homecoming sense. Such engagement, he adds, activates the insula region of the brain, improving well-being and positive mindfulness. This is indeed the aim of the artform to urge people to calm themselves, to focus on positives, Prashanth notes. Only from such peace can beauty emerge. When you encourage people towards that, magic happens. I have seen it while training youngsters. They can be weaned away from perils like alcohol or drug abuse, he says. Souls are intrinsically beautiful. And music evokes that beauty.

Delhi Police Busts Interstate Gangs Supplying Mule Bank Accounts To Cybercrooks; 9 Arrested

New Delhi, Dec 18: The Delhi Police has busted two inter-state cyberfraud rackets involved in supplying mule bank accounts used for online financial crimes, including investment frauds, part-time job scams and digital arrest, officials said on Thursday. Nine accused were arrested after coordinated raids in Delhi, Gurugram, Jaipur and Ghaziabad under the Cyhawk Operation, police said. The rackets were operating in a highly-structured manner, using layered banking channels, social media platforms and encrypted messaging applications to launder money cheated from [] The post Delhi Police Busts Interstate Gangs Supplying Mule Bank Accounts To Cybercrooks; 9 Arrested appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Delhi: Man arrested for series of house burglaries in Dwarka

Dwarka police have apprehended a 22-year-old man suspected of a string of house burglaries. Following a complaint of stolen jewelry, CCTV analysis led to the identification and arrest of the Bindapur resident. Recovered items include gold and silver ornaments, along with several mobile phones, linking him to eight reported cases.

Delhi's 50% work-from-home conundrum: A pollution-era mandate is colliding with how offices actually operate

Delhi's mandatory 50% work-from-home rule, aimed at reducing pollution, has exposed practical challenges. The directive faces fragmented authority, uneven workplace organization, and jobs that cannot be done remotely, leading to confusion and selective implementation across government and private sectors.

ED conducts fresh raids in dunki route case

CHANDIGARH, Dec 18: The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday conducted fresh searches in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation in a case linked to illegally transporting Indians to the US through the dunki route, officials said. The federal probe agency had in July conducted the first round of raids and recently attached assets worth Rs 5 crore of some travel agents after identifying some alleged accused operatives who were behind this illegal racket. Thursdays [] The post ED conducts fresh raids in dunki route case appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Saddened by passing of eminent sculptor Ram Sutar: Murmu

NEW DELHI, Dec 18: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday expressed condolences on the passing of eminent sculptor Ram Sutar and said his exceptional contributions have enriched Indias artistic and cultural heritage. Saddened by the passing of Shri Ram Sutar Ji, Padma Bhushan recipient and an eminent sculptor whose exceptional contributions have enriched Indias artistic and cultural heritage, the president said in a post on X. His monumental works, including the Statue of Unity, stand as great symbols of Indias [] The post Saddened by passing of eminent sculptor Ram Sutar: Murmu appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

In pictures: Toxic haze covers Delhi as air quality worsens

Exposure to this level of pollution can cause serious health problems, experts say.

Tata Motors against expecting small vehicles from CAFE norms

NEW DELHI, Dec 18: Leading car maker Tata Motors is against granting exemption to small petrol vehicles weighing up to 909 kg from the strict Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) standards, saying it would be detrimental for the growth of adoption of models based on sustainable technologies in the country. In a letter to PMO, the Mumbai-based auto major said Indias ability to innovate and leapfrog into technologies of the future is now starting to bear fruit, with EV [] The post Tata Motors against expecting small vehicles from CAFE norms appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Sick Of Delhi's Pollution? Check Top 7 Cities With AQI Under 50 Where You Can Breathe Clean Air

While Delhi grapples with toxic air every winter, several cities in the country present a stark contrast

Ticket Refunds Are The Responsibility Of The State Association (UPCA): BCCI

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: After the fourth T20I between India and South Africa was abandoned due to excessive fog and poor visibility, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said that the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) is the competent authority to oversee a full refund for ticket holders. The abandonment of the match sparked frustration among spectators, who are expecting a refund for their tickets. Under the BCCI's refund policy, spectators are eligible for reimbursement (minus fees) if a match is cancelled or abandoned before a single ball is bowled. That is under the domain of the state cricket association, which is UPCA. So, this games hosting state is the UPCA. So, they will be able to tell you about this, and they are the competent authority. Everything in ticketing is done by the state association, as the BCCI just gives them the hosting rights and all these things are taken care of and are under the domain of the state association, Saikia told IANS on Thursday. Repeated inspections by on-field umpires K.N. Ananthapadmanabhan and Rohan Pandit, along with reserve umpire J.R. Madanagopal, didnt yield the desired outcome as the game was eventually called off at 9.30 pm. Due to the match being abandoned at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium, India holds a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, with the fifth and final game set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday. The abandonment of the fourth T20I has reignited debate over the BCCIs scheduling of international games in winter months, particularly with this series against South Africa seen as a part of vital preparation ahead of the Mens T20 World Cup in February-March. This was the first time a T20I was staged in Lucknow in December, and it now carries the unwanted distinction of hosting Indias first major international match abandoned due to excessive fog. Indias seam-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya was even spotted wearing a mask in the middle, underscoring the severity of fog and the Air Quality Index (AQI), which remained hazardous. The scheduling of fixtures in North Indian winters has long been a contentious issue, and Saikia felt Wednesdays game being abandoned in Lucknow was just an exceptional situation. No, it is a solitary weather situation. Normally we have this kind of weather in the month of January. This time it is quite early, number one, and number two, we had a match in Dharamsala also the other day. Dharamsala is a much colder place. So you cannot predict fog, and rain. Nowadays cricket is a throughout the year annual event for 12, and we have to have the matches. When we saw that there were big disturbances from fog in northern India in the month of January, we already restructured our domestic cricket matches. That's why there is a big gap between Ranji Trophy matches in North India. If you look at our schedule, we have bifurcated the Ranji Trophy matches into two parts. During the first part of January, we are not scheduling any matches in North India from last year onwards, if you follow that. This Lucknow incident is an exceptional weather condition. We had three matches in North India - one in Chandigarh, Dharamshala and one in Lucknow - all are in the same build, he elaborated. Saikia also gave an example of how prior advice on smog affecting New Delhi after Diwali had led to the national capital hosting the second Test against the West Indies in October, instead of the originally decided series opener against South Africa. If we had got any sense that there will be something like this, you can take the example of rescheduling or swapping of the Test match in New Delhi. If you look at the West Indies match, the second Test was played in New Delhi. In fact, the second Test was scheduled to happen in Kolkata. Saikia also gave an example of how prior advice on smog affecting New Delhi after Diwali had led to the national capital hosting the second Test against the West Indies in October, instead of the originally decided series opener against South Africa. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I don't think Lucknow always has this kind of fog at this part of the time. Maybe in the first part of January, it is normal, but we are still in the second or third week of December. We still have 15 days time to be in that situation. That is one of the tough things we saw yesterday, and for this, we cannot have any kind of rescheduling, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Stray dogs case: We will play video, ask what is humanity, SC tells petitioner

The Supreme Court said it would play a video in the stray dogs case to question the petitioners claim of inhuman treatment amid objections to MCD rules on dog relocation. Sibal said, The problem is that the MCD (Municipal Corporation of Delhi), in the meantime, has framed some rules which are completely contrary

Nationwide barrier-free toll collection by 2026; FASTag annual pass gains traction

New Delhi: The government will implement barrier-free toll collection at all 1,050 toll plazas across the country by 2026 and about 40 lakh annual FASTag passes have been issued in four months since August, Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday. Answering queries during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha, Gadkari said 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 .

Rare smog spike hits Beijing after years of pollution clean-up

Beijing experienced a rare spike in very unhealthy smog levels, reaching an AQI of 215 after years of significant pollution reduction efforts. Despite past successes in improving air quality through industrial relocation and cleaner heating, the city faced a temporary setback. This event has sparked comparisons with New Delhi's ongoing pollution crisis.

Santa Claus 'faints' in Delhi's Connaught Place: AAPs bizarre skit targets BJP over worsening air pollution

AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj posted a video skit on his social media platform to target the ruling BJP over the worsening air pollution. The bizarre skit shows two men dressed as Santa Claus and one by one, both of them faint following which Bhardwaj said Santa Claus fainted due to toxic AQI in Delhi.

Not concerned about rupee at all: Economic Advisory Council to PM

New Delhi: Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) member Sanjeev Sanyal on Thursday said he is not concerned about the rupee at all, arguing that even China and Japan witnessed exchange rate weaknesses during their high growth phases. Speaking at Times Networks India Economic Conclave 2025, Sanyal said since the 90s, the rupee 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 .

India arming itself with FTAs to blunt Trumps tariff shocks

Facing U.S. import tariffs, India is accelerating free trade agreements to secure market access beyond America. New Delhi is finalizing deals with the EU, New Zealand, and Chile, and has signed a pact with Oman, diversifying export destinations amid global trade uncertainty.

Long-distance bus travel offers cleaner air than polluted cities in winter: Study

NEW DELHI: A new study by Respirer Living Sciences in collaboration with IntrCity SmartBus has found that long-distance bus travel during winter exposes passengers to significantly cleaner air compared to the severely polluted conditions in many north and central Indian cities . The study, conducted from December 7 to 14, 2025, covered 11 intercity routes across the country and is Indias first to measure real-time air quality inside long-distance buses. Its findings show that passengers spent up to 80% of their travel time breathing air with PM2.5 levels below 60 micrograms per cubic metre (g/m). Across most routes, around 6080% of the journey duration recorded PM2.5 levels under 60 g/m, indicating generally acceptable in-cabin air quality during transit. The analysis suggests that air filtration and in-cabin air systems play a crucial role in reducing passenger exposure to pollution, even while travelling through heavily polluted corridors in northern and central India. The study notes that while pollution spikes did occur, they were short-lived and intermittent. Overall, a substantial share of bus travel took place under low to moderate PM2.5 levels, offering a relatively cleaner breathing environment compared to outdoor city air during winter. Route-wise data showed particularly favourable conditions on sectors such as DelhiKanpur, PuneNagpur, PuneBangalore, DelhiLucknow, PathankotDelhi, DelhiKatra, and KatraDelhi, where PM2.5 levels remained below 60 g/m for more than 80% of the travel time. In contrast, the DelhiPathankot and LucknowDelhi routes recorded slightly higher exposure, with over 20% of travel time exceeding the 60 g/m threshold. Even on routes with relatively higher pollution, exposure to PM2.5 concentrations above 90 g/m was generally limited to a small portion of the journeyoften less than 1015% of total travel time. According to the study, these brief pollution peaks are likely linked to short-term external factors such as traffic congestion or localised pollution hotspots. Researchers said the findings provide a detailed picture of passenger exposure to particulate pollution during long-distance road travel and add a new dimension to discussions on mobility and public health in India. The study is the first publicly shared evidence of real-time air quality conditions inside long-distance buses in the country. As North India chokes, there can be no hiding 'behind the smokescreen of farm fires anymore'

AIFF Imposes Heavy Sanctions on Sikkim Dragons FC Following Tournament Brawl

New Delhi, Dec 18 : The All India Football Federation (AIFF) Disciplinary Committee has handed The post AIFF Imposes Heavy Sanctions on Sikkim Dragons FC Following Tournament Brawl appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Pollution Debate Fails To Take Off In Lok Sabha; Govt, Opposition Trade Blame As Delhi Chokes

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju accused the Opposition of avoiding the debate, saying they dont want a proper discussion on pollution.

Delhi airport: 27 flights cancelled as dense fog disrupts flight operations

Flight operations at Delhis IGI Airport were disrupted due to dense fog across Northern India, leading to 27 cancellations. Authorities have advised passengers to stay in touch with airlines for real-time updates

Coffee is bad for your heart? Delhi cardiologist says the science tells a very different story

Good news for coffee lovers. A Delhi cardiologist reveals decades of fear about coffee harming hearts are outdated. Large studies show coffee drinkers face no higher heart disease risk. In fact, moderate consumption may be beneficial. The focus should be on avoiding added sugar and unhealthy accompaniments, not the coffee itself. This offers a fresh perspective on daily brews.

Over 27 Flights Cancelled, Many More Delayed At Delhi Airport Due To Dense Fog

Mumbai, Dec 18: As many as 27 flights of various airlines were cancelled and many more delayed at Delhi Airport on Thursday due to dense fog and subsequent drop in visibility, a DIAL official said. As of now, 27 flights are cancelled 16 departures and 11 arrivals at Delhi Airport due to dense fog and low visibility, the Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) official said. In a passenger advisory Thursday morning, DIAL said due to dense fog, flight [] The post Over 27 Flights Cancelled, Many More Delayed At Delhi Airport Due To Dense Fog appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Lok Sabha Passes G RAM G Bill Amid Opposition Uproar

NEW DELHI, Dec 18: The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on Thursday shortly after the passage of the G RAM G Bill, following noisy protests by opposition members over its provisions. The Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) [VB-G RAM G] Bill, 2025, which seeks to guarantee 125 days of [] The post Lok Sabha Passes G RAM G Bill Amid Opposition Uproar appeared first on Northlines .

No PUC, no fuel policy: Can it be implemented as 26 lakh vehicles lack it? Will it clean Delhi's air or punish commuters?

Around 75-80% of Delhi's vehicles have valid PUC certificates. Can the 'No PUC, No Fuel' policy be enforced without disrupting daily commuters?

Consensus reached on appointment of VCs in Kerala varsities, Governor tells SC

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court was informed on Thursday that the Kerala Governor and the state government have agreed on names for the appointment of vice chancellors of the A P J Abdul Kalam Technological University and Kerala University of Digital Sciences. The Attorney General, appearing for the Governor, informed the apex court that the matter had been resolved and that the development duly communicated to Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia. The Supreme Court bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K V Viswanathan on Thursday hailed the development as a very happy ending, clarifying that all the questions of law arising from the dispute have been kept open for future adjudication. The apex court said a university cannot run without the vice chancellor as he has an important role to play. Lets put an end to this. We have to make sure that (the candidates) are meritorious, Justice Pardiwala remarked. Senior Advocate Jaideep Gupta, appearing for Kerala government, submitted that an appointment order should not have been issued while the matter was still pending before the Court. Hearing these submissions, Justice Pardiwala, however, observed that the Courts primary concern had always been to ensure that appointments were made. The court also in its order noted that Justice Dhulia was entrusted with the task of recommending at least three names for the Vice-Chancellor posts. Today, we are happy that the Chancellor and the Government, in one voice, have reported that the appointment of the Vice-Chancellors has been made, he said. After our last order referred to above, there has been some positive developments. This case illustrates how timely and decisive intervention can go a long way in protecting rights of citizens. Two prominent universities were ruler less. They had no permanent VC heading them. The only reason was, that a consensus was eluding the governor and state government. Doors of this court was knocked, we were deeply concerned, the bench said. We appointed Justice Dhulia and entrusted him with the task of recommending at least three names for VC in two universities. Today, we are happy that the chancellor and government in one voice have reported that the appointment of the VC has been made. We place our appreciation to the good office of Justice Dhulia, it added. The top court in its order said its endeavour was that the interest of all stakeholders is safeguarded. We place our appreciation to the authorities who have acted in aid of the court in appointment. Curtains have been gracefully brought down by the authorities and we also appreciate the attorney general and senior advocate Jaideep Gupta and to the entire team assisting for bringing around a very happy ending to this saga, the bench said. The top court had earlier said it would intervene to resolve the ongoing deadlock over the selection of vice chancellors for two technical universities in Kerala if the chief minister and the governor do not reach a consensus. On November 28, the top court took serious exception to the Kerala governor and chancellor ot looking at the Dhulia Committee report on the appointment of the vice chancellors of the two universities and remarked that it is not just an ordinary piece of paper. On September 2, the Kerala governor moved the apex court for the exclusion of Vijayan from the selection process of the vice chancellors. The governor said neither of the universities envisioned any role for the chief minister in the selection process. On August 18, to end the impasse between the Kerala governor and the state government over the appointment of vice-chancellors, the apex court appointed former apex court judge Dhulia as head of a panel meant for shortlisting names. Justice Dhulia demitted office as Supreme Court judge on August 9. On July 30, the top court asked both the Kerala government and the attorney general, appearing for the governor, to work out some mechanism in harmony to resolve the dispute. The Governor in the petition filed in the top court, said neither of the universities envisioned any role for the chief minister in the selection process of Vice-Chancellors. The plea of Arlekar said that the role of chief minister in the entire selection process for appointment of VCs for the two universities and referred to State of West Bengal versus Dr Sanat Kumar Ghosh and Others, the directions of which had been applied in the present case. He added in his plea that since the minister is a part of the selection process in the appointment of Vice Chancellors in the State of West Bengal, this court made the Chief Minister a part of the said process. Karlekar pointed out in his petition that the university enactments -- the A P J Abdul Kalam Technological University Act and the Kerala Digital University Act -- had no provision for having the minister for higher education or the state government as a part of the selection process for recommendation for appointment of VCs. Therefore, in the humble submission of the application the role of CM for selection of VCs as mentioned in the order dated August 18, may be modified by this court, the plea of Karlelar said, adding that the chief ministers involvement would violate the principle against a person judging his own cause, a norm embedded in the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations. The Chief Minister being the Executive Head of the State is connected with the number of government colleges, managed by the government and affiliated to the university. Therefore, as per UGC Regulations he cannot have any role whatsoever in the appointment of Vice Chancellors, the application said.

Lok Sabha adjourned after G RAM G Bill passed amid uproar

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha proceedings were adjourned for the day on Thursday after the passage of the G RAM G bill amid opposition uproar over its provisions. A discussion on air pollution in the Delhi National Capital Region was to be taken up later during the day. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was expected 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 .