Maharashtra Selection Is One Dream; Many More Still Left, Says ISPL Sensation Vivek Shelar
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Having been called into Maharashtra's squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2026, fast-bowler Vivek Shelar calls the state selection a major stepping stone towards achieving his cricketing dreams. The Bhiwandi native, Shelar, starred in Season 3 of the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) with nine wickets, including two hat-tricks that made heads turn. Although his team, Tiigers of Kolkata, fell short on the final hurdle to Chennai Singams, Shelar's achievements helped the 26-year-old earn a call into Maharashtra's squad for the SMAT, which gets underway on Saturday. Speaking to IANS, Shelar said the state selection is the completion of one dream, and he is hungry for more. As a sportsman, it is a very big achievement for me, Shelar told IANS. Because playing for a state is everyone's dream. So now my dream is being fulfilled. I mean, there are still a lot of dreams left. So I am feeling good, he added. He clocked a 145.2kph delivery in the ISPL, which brought him into the limelight. He opened up on how the league played a role in bringing him into the spotlight. ISPL was very important. Because of ISPL, I came into focus. When I bowled the fastest ball in ISPL, I came into the limelight. So ISPL was very important for me, he said. The ISPL is a tennis ball tournament, while Indian domestic cricket and international cricket are a different ball game altogether, with a proper season ball being used. Shelar stated that the major difference he saw in the transition from the tennis ball to the red ball was mostly mental, before detailing how he started preparing for both balls. Both have different preparations, but the mentality matters. Both games are different, but mentality is what matters. So I practise with both tennis and leather ball. So I have that mentality now. So it's a little easier for me. I had a problem in the beginning (with leather ball) when I started in 2020-21 with the leather ball. I had a problem in the first year, but now it has become a habit. So I don't have any problems now. His cricketing journey began in 2016 with the ISPL from his village before he earned a selection for Tiigers of Kolkata in the ISPL, which he believed changed things for him. I started playing cricket in 2016. I started from the village itself, with the tennis ball. I used to play well with the tennis ball. When I played for the first time in the ISPL last season, I was in Tiigers of Kolkata. So everything changed there. I got everything there. I bowled well. In the first match, I bowled the fastest ball. From there, I started getting messages. Everyone was sending me messages, he added. Shelar also opened up about a challenging period when he was down with a hamstring injury right after the second match of the tournament. Shelar, who is supported by Aspect Sports, credited Aksha Kamboj, the Chairperson of Aspect Global and owner of Tiigers of Kolkata, for helping him during this time. Aksha ma'am supported me. When I got injured, I went to the hospital on the second day. (It was) From Surat to Mumbai. I recovered within eight days. Then I went back and took two hat-tricks in the ISPL after that injury. I credit her and Tiigers of Kolkata; because of them, I got to play the tournament again. I had some doubt (mentally after hamstring) while playing the first match after returning from injury. But for the team, you have to keep your thoughts aside. You have to keep the team first. It happened automatically, Shelar added. His immediate focus lies in performing for Maharashtra and then has an eye on an IPL contract. I will focus on this tournament first. After this, I have an IPL goal. Let's see what happens next, he added. Shelar also called India icon Rohit Sharma and South Africa great Dale Steyn his idols, before revealing what he likes most about the former Proteas speedster. Rohit Sharma and Dale Steyn are my idols. (I like Steyn's) Aggression, speed, swing and everything. He has everything, Shelar added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
IWL: Ikwaputs injury-time strike gives East Bengal winning start
The Kolkata outfit edges a spirited Gokulam Kerala
The readings show a considerable gap in air quality between the national capital and the other cities.
Sayan rejoins Bengal squad after dads demise
The pacer had rushed back to Kolkata to be with his family and attend the last rites
INSV Hariyal sets sail from Goa to Sri Vijaya Puram to commemorate ancient Kalinga maritime heritage
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) The Indian Navy's 40-foot ocean-going sailing vessel, INSV Hariyal, has embarked on a 1,600-nautical-mile expedition from Goa to Sri Vijaya Puram in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to commemorate the historic Southeast Asian voyages undertaken by ancient mariners from Kalinga (present-day Odisha) during Kartik Purnima. Highlighting the significance of the voyage, the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) stated that the expedition evokes India's age-old maritime links with Southeast Asia and the legacy of navigating with seasonal monsoon winds. Celebrating this rich heritage, the voyage will hone seamanship and professional competence, test endurance and resilience, foster camaraderie and promote sailing as a sport and a culture of adventure, while encouraging a vibrant sailing culture in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Command added. Over 2,500 years ago, Sadhabas (mariner merchants from Kalinga) sailed across the Bay of Bengal aboard large wooden ships known as boitas, transporting spices, textiles, ivory, and precious stones to Sri Lanka and distant Southeast Asian ports including Bali, Java, and Sumatra. Relying on seasonal wind patterns, these mariners departed as the southwest monsoon subsided, using the calm full moon of Kartik Purnima as their traditional launch date before returning with the northeast monsoon. In Odisha, this maritime heritage continues to be observed during Kartik Purnima through Boita Bandana (also known as Danga Bhasa), where people gather along rivers, ponds, and coastal shores at dawn to float miniature decorative boats crafted from paper, banana bark, or cork, adorned with betel leaves, betel nuts, flowers, and earthen lamps. The tradition is also celebrated through Bali Jatra, a major annual open-air fair held on the banks of the Mahanadi River at Gadagadia Ghat in Cuttack. Named after the yellow-footed green pigeon, the state bird of Maharashtra, INSV Hariyal is one of six ocean-going sailing yachts operated by the Indian Navy alongside INSV Mhadei, Tarini, Bulbul, Kadalpura, and Neelkanth. The vessel is regularly deployed for adventure expeditions, coastal awareness drives, and personnel training in navigation, seamanship, and communication. Its previous missions include the 2020 'Maha-Navy Connect' coastal awareness voyage along Maharashtra's ports, a 2022 overseas training deployment to Trincomalee Port in Sri Lanka alongside four sister vessels, and participation in the 2024 Inter-Command Ocean Sailing Race in Goa, where it represented the Eastern Naval Command and the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
Bengal special summary revision draft roll to be out on Nov 23
Kolkata: The Election Commission will publish the draft electoral rolls for West Bengal on November 23, with the final voters list scheduled to be released on January 16, 2027, as part of a Special Summary Revision (SSR), a statement said on Friday, November 13. The revision will be conducted with January 1, 2027, as the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Tinu Anand says he recuperating well, expects to get back to work next month after recovery
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Nov 13 (IANS) Veteran actor and filmmaker Tinu Anand, who was discharged after suffering 5 rib fractures, and one punctured lung, has shared an update on his health. The actor shared with IANS that he is recovering well after suffering fractured ribs. He revealed that he is feeling better now and that his health is gradually improving. He also expressed hope about returning to work soon, adding that he will probably resume shooting from next month. The actor was recently admitted to a hospital in the Andheri West area of Mumbai. One of his broken ribs disintegrated and punctured his lungs, following which the actor was in a lot of pain, and even had difficulty with movements. Tinu Anand is the son of veteran Hindi film writer Inder Raj Anand. His filmmaking journey took a significant turn when he moved to Kolkata and trained under legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray for approximately five years, assisting him on films including Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne and Pratidwandi. He subsequently directed Amitabh Bachchan in Kaalia, Shahenshah and Main Azaad Hoon. As an actor, he is known for his performances in Pushpak, Agneepath in which he shared the screen with Big B, Damini, Bombay and Ghajini. His appearance as a memorable supporting character in Dabangg further introduced him to younger audiences. His upcoming projects reportedly include Salaar: Part 2 Shouryaanga Parvam, in which he is expected to reprise his role as Gaikwad 'Baba' from the first instalment starring Prabhas. He also has Suryaa: Ant Se Aarambh Tak in the pipeline. The film is directed by M. Padmakumar, and is set to release in cinemas on November 20, 2026.
Brake failure suspected in Kolkata-Sairang Express derailment in Assam
A preliminary probe into the November 11 derailment of the Kolkata-Sairang Express at Digaru station in Assam has pointed to a possible malfunction in the trains main braking system. Investigators found a key braking component in an isolated condition, raising questions about safety checks carried out after repairs at Panbari station. The exact cause remains under investigation.
CID to probe fake beneficiaries, recommenders in ex-Trinamool govt housing scheme: CM Adhikari
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the state police will investigate the fake beneficiaries and their recommenders in the 'West Bengal Awas Yojana', the state governments own housing scheme during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Friday. The scheme was named Banglar Bari during the previous Trinamool Congress regime, which was renamed 'West Bengal Awas Yojana' after the new BJP-ruled state government led by Adhikari took over. The SIT announcement was made by CM Adhikari in the afternoon at the state secretariat of Nabanna in a programme on the distribution of financial assistance provided to over seven lakh genuine beneficiaries of West Bengal Awas Yojana. Already, 57,000 fake beneficiaries have been identified, and all of them will be punished. So far, 1,000 fake beneficiaries have returned the money they received. I am asking those who are not the rightful and genuine recipients to return the money. We will form an SIT of the CID to investigate the matter. If anyone at the official level is involved in recommending the fake beneficiaries, departmental action will be taken against them, the Chief Minister said. He also said that an instalment of Rs 60,000 under the West Bengal Awas Yojana will be deposited in the accounts of seven lakh beneficiaries on Friday. Earlier, 10 lakh beneficiaries received the second instalment of housing, CM Adhikari said. He also launched a scathing attack against the previous ruling dispensation for carrying out false propaganda before the Assembly election earlier this year, that all welfare schemes in the state would be stopped if the BJP came to power. The previous ruling party claimed that if the government changed, all welfare schemes in the state would be stopped. We have proved that it is false. We do not give money based on caste, religion, or community. We want those who left their housework half-done to be able to complete it. The previous government claimed that we will not form a new pay commission or give dearness allowances to state government employees. We have proved that wrong, the Chief Minister said. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister also claimed that the District Magistrates have been directed to ensure that those who build houses with West Bengal Awas Yojana funds do not have to spend more than Rs 1,200 to purchase sand.
Indonesian Woman With Alleged Chinese Links Caught At Sonauli Border With Multiple Indian IDs
An Indonesian woman identified as Rohana was arrested by Bureau of Immigration officials at the Sonauli border in Uttar Pradeshs Maharajganj district on November 10 while attempting to enter Nepal. She allegedly posed as a Kolkata resident using forged Indian identity documents, including an Aadhaar card, voter ID and two PAN cards bearing different names and dates of birth. During questioning, officials reportedly became suspicious when she struggled to speak Hindi. Her Indonesian passport revealed a different identity. She allegedly claimed to be the president of a Kolkata-based NGO providing technical assistance to Buddhist monks travelling to China. Police have registered a case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025. Officials said the investigation is ongoing, and no espionage link has been established.
If KKR Cant Find Anyone Else At Auction, Will Go Towards Rinku As Captain: Aakash Chopra
Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India batter Aakash Chopra has said three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) should name Rinku Singh as captain if the IPL 2027 auction does not result in them finding a suitable leader, especially in terms of overseas options. The question of who leads KKR has come up after Ajinkya Rahanes retirement. KKR missed the playoffs last season, and must also finalise their retention list before the deadline comes on November 17. Appoint Rinku as the captain. You made him the vice-captain, right? Then have him as the captain now. He leads his side in the UPT20. Sometimes you have to throw people in at the deep end and see what happens. So, this is that opportunity, unless they can find somebody at the auction. If they cant find anyone, rather than looking at overseas players, Ill actually go towards Rinku, said Chopra on JioStar. He also felt KKR would have the funds to look for a captain at the auction if they released two of their most expensive players, all-rounder Cameron Green and pacer Matheesha Pathirana. I am looking to leave out Cameron Green at Rs 25.2 crores. Its a World Cup year, and its an Ashes year, so I am not sure about his availability or how many matches he will play. If you release him, even if you feel like buying him back, you can easily get him for 50 per cent cheaper. Secondly, Matheesha Pathirana is also not playing, so thats another Rs 18 crore buy. KKR are likely to walk into this auction with the most amount of money, so that will be the big story. We also dont know what is going to happen with Mustafizur Rahman. If he is available and can play, you would want to retain him, but can he play? We dont know about that. If he can play, I would still have him retained because you already have a surplus of Rs 43 crore with those two releases, added Chopra. He further questioned whether keeping all-rounder Ramandeep Singh and tearaway pacer Umran Malik made sense, given how little they played in IPL 2026. Im slightly worried about Ramandeep Singh personally at four crores. Hes not getting utilised at all, so that is my area of concern. If Im not going to play him and hes not doing well, then do I want to go elsewhere? I know thats just Rs 4 crores, but that money can be utilised better. Another player is Umran Malik. Do they release him? Hes only for Rs 75 lakhs, but they dont play him. If theyre not playing him, then for Umrans sake, Ill say release him. You just feel for the boy, as hes got the upside, so why make him sit on the bench? If you cant play him and Harshit is available, then let the boy go and play somewhere else. Ex-India opener Abhinav Mukund recommended that KKR retain young wicketkeeper-batter Tejasvi Singh Dahiya, citing how much value uncapped Indian keepers fetched in the previous auction. I would still retain Tejasvi because hes a Rs 3-crore player. Considering youve got so much money on the table now, where youre not going to be fighting for players, I dont see anyone breaching the Cameron Green mark in this auction anyway. So, I just have a feeling youve got to retain these players. The last auction was a very nice example of how domestic Indian wicketkeeper-batters were in demand, with Kartik Sharma going for a lot of money, and then there was a drop-off. There was Salil Arora, Tejasvi Singh, and Ravi Singh playing for Rajasthan Royals, all in the Rs 3-4 crore bracket. So, I think youve got to retain him because the Delhi boy has potential, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
EBITDA rises 59.79% to 26.69 Cr, powered by robust demand for lightweight 22K and 18K gold jewellery and an expanding B2B partner network Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], November 13: Pushpa
IISER Kolkata Senior Project Associate Recruitment 2026
IISER Kolkata has published the Recruitment 2026 notification for the post of Senior Project Associate. Applications by email will be accepted till 19 November 2026. For complete details, candidates can visit iiserkol.ac.in.
Following the bulldozer action at Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee's residence, West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Friday asserted that any form of illegal encroachment was being removed, adding that Banerjee was ot intentionally targeted. The West Bengal minister also flagged the shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata, and said that illegal constructions are being demolished in many places. Speaking to ANI, he said, Any form of illegal encroachment is being removed. There is a shortage of roads and footpaths in Kolkata; if someone constructs a building in such areas, it causes inconvenience to the general public. This is happening everywhere
Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh defends bulldozer action against illegal constructions, stating its a broader issue beyond Abhishek Banerjee. Bulldozer Action Outside Abhishek Banerjees Home Sparks Controversy in Kolkata
Kolkata Police file chargesheet in hotel fire case, name three
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) Kolkata Police informed on Friday that their investigating team probing the devastating fire at Hotel Shikha Inn on Mirza Ghalib Street, which killed nine people, including a child, on the intervening night of August 18 and 19, had submitted the chargesheet in the case. In the chargesheet filed at a lower court in Kolkata on Thursday, three persons have been named. The first name in the chargesheet is Bireshwar Moitra, the original owner of the hotel Shikha Inn, where the fire tragedy happened. The second person named in the chargesheet is Abu Zafar, who took the hotel on lease from Moitra. The third person named in the chargesheet is Abus wife, Saba Zafar, who was the last to be arrested by the city police last month after she had been absconding since the tragedy took place. The chargesheet contains recorded statements of 90 witnesses, said a city police official. The accused have been charged under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, relating to involuntary murder, attempted involuntary murder, endangering life and conspiracy. A forensic report has also been submitted along with it. The 350-page chargesheet also highlights the horror of the incident. The chargesheet mentions how the originally bigger hotel rooms were demolished and converted into multiple smaller rooms. Almost every room had AC. Installing so many ACs without following any rules resulted in an overload of electricity. The fire spread from the board and started consuming the rooms, the city police officer said. The chargesheet also stated that the building, which housed several hotels, including Shikha Inn, was actually a residential complex that was illegally converted into a hotel later, without the permission of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and the West Bengal Fire Services Department authorities. The fire broke out on the third floor of the building housing Hotel Shikha Inn and several other lodges. The hotel rooms quickly filled with thick smoke, causing most of the nine victims to die of suffocation. The majority of those who lost their lives were Bangladeshi nationals visiting Kolkata for medical treatment. The original hotel owner, Bireshwar Moitra, initially fled after the incident but was arrested shortly after at his residence in Behala, on Kolkata's southern outskirts. During interrogation, he disclosed that he had leased the hotel to Abu Zafar and his wife, Saba Zafar, for a monthly rent of Rs 40,000. While police arrested Abu shortly after, Saba managed to evade capture until her arrest on October 28.
Bengal man arrested in Delhi in Anjali Sau death case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 13 (IANS) West Bengal Police have arrested the boyfriend of 26-year-old Anjali Sau from Baranagar in North 24 Parganas, outside a railway station in Delhi, in connection with the murder of Sau, state police informed on Friday morning. Police sources said the arrested youth is named Dharambir. He was reportedly arrested outside Delhi's Anand Vihar railway station. He has been identified as the main accused in the incident. The operation to arrest Dharambir was led by a sub-inspector of Baranagar police station. Barrackpore Police Commissariats Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Kuntal Banerjee said the accused is being brought from Delhi on Friday, and more details will be revealed after getting information from the arrested accused. Saus body was recovered on the night of November 10, from the residential flat of a five-storey housing cooperative on the night of November 10. The body was recovered in a lying position. There were also injury marks. The cause of death was a mystery. It is learnt that the deceased's sister and brother-in-law had been living in that flat for the last four years. The brother-in-law is now a resident of Sreerampore in Hooghly district, and Sau used to live in that flat in Baranagar from time to time. Her own house is in the nearby Dunlop area. Her brother-in-law also used to visit the flat from time to time. On Monday, the flat owner, i.e., Sau's brother-in-law, left the flat key with a neighbour. On November 10, in the afternoon, Sau entered the flat after taking the key from the neighbour. A couple of relatives of the deceased woman told police about their suspicion that her boyfriend might be involved in the mysterious death. He had been absconding since the body was recovered. Based on the location of the mobile tower and information from confidential sources, the investigators came to know that Dharambir had fled from Kolkata to Delhi. A special team of the police reached Delhi. Finally, the police were able to arrest Dharambir on the premises of Anand Vihar station in Delhi. The police suspect that Dharambir was visiting the young woman's flat because of his previous acquaintance. Investigators are investigating the exact reason for this brutal murder. They are trying to find out whether it was a personal grudge or some other mystery hidden behind it.
Brake failure caused Assam train derailment: Report
A preliminary probe into the Kolkata-Sairang Express derailment on November 11 points to a malfunctioning main braking system.
Sairang Express derailment: Initial probe points to faulty braking system
A preliminary probe into the derailment of the Kolkata-Sairang Express at Digaru Railway Station in Assam on November 11 has pointed to a malfunctioning main braking system on the train. A six-member probe team, in its report, found that the system primarily responsible for applying brakes in the coaches, technically known as the BP angle cock, was in an isolated condition in the locomotive. This may be the reason for this accident, as the brakes may not have been applied when the FP/BP angle cock of the loco was in an isolated condition, a joint note prepared by the probe team on the day of the accident said. It further stated that the train crew applied the brakes, ut the brakes may not have been applied as the angle cock was previously in the closed position. The probe report does not identify who rendered the braking system dysfunctional or whether the train crew overlooked safety procedures to check its functionality before operating the train. However, in their statemen
Kolkata-Sairang train derailment: Preliminary probe points to faulty braking system
A six-member probe team, in its report, found that the system primarily responsible for applying brakes in the coaches, technically known as the BP angle cock, was in an isolated condition in the locomotive
Gold and silver extended their decline as stronger US inflation data and a rising dollar increased expectations of Federal Reserve rate hikes. Check the latest 24K and 22K gold prices across Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
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Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) Researchers at the Department of Ocean Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, have developed a real-time digital twin platform designed to test, validate, and train autonomous maritime navigation systems to help vessels navigate safely at sea. Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), and multi-sensor fusion, SEANAV constructs a virtual ocean environment where autonomous vessels can be evaluated before setting sail. Built on a Unity-based simulation engine, the platform recreates realistic ocean waves, dynamic shipping traffic, and adverse weather conditions, enabling ships to execute AI-driven collision avoidance and path-following manoeuvres. The system allows multiple ships to navigate congested waterways simultaneously and offers an immersive VR interface for training maritime professionals. According to the institute, conducting thousands of hours of virtual simulation substantially reduces testing costs while promoting safer and more sustainable shipping operations. The research has been published in the Journal of Offshore Mechanics and Arctic Engineering (ASME) and presented at ASME OMAE conferences in Vancouver and Tokyo. Highlighting the importance of environmental perception in dynamic marine environments, researchers noted that existing maritime vision datasets, such as SeaShips and HRSC2016, lack sufficient variation in viewpoints and weather conditions, which limits the real-world reliability of deep learning models. To overcome this, the team developed a novel custom dataset named 'DetectShips', comprising 14,000 real ship images, and combined it with the SeaShips dataset to train a computer vision algorithm integrated with stereo sensors. Additionally, the researchers introduced 'StereoLiD', a hybrid sensing framework that combines stereo vision cameras with LiDAR data from the Unity simulation platform. While stereo cameras detect and classify vessels to estimate relative depth, LiDAR inputs further refine depth estimation accuracy. Data from both sensors are fused using a Kalman filter to achieve precise target localisation. According to the researchers, this multi-vision sensor fusion overcomes common limitations of conventional optical sensors, including fluctuating lighting conditions and dense fog, ensuring dependable target detection and navigation across complex oceanic environments.
Bulldozer action outside Abhisheks home, MP writes to EC over docu theft plot
SRFTI row bad publicity for states creative economy: Swapan
India-China War Unlikely, Pak Warship Collision, IAF Pushback: Ex-Navy Chief Sunil Lanba | DefenceHQ
Will India and China ever go to war? Why does India hold the advantage over China in the northern Indian Ocean? And what does a former Navy chief make of the Pakistani warship that collided with an Indian destroyer?In this episode of DefenceHQ by The Times of India, Prasad Sanyal speaks to former Indian Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba (retd) about India's maritime strategy, the growing Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean, the collision with a Pakistani warship and the future of India's military power.Lanba explains why he believes India and China are unlikely to go to war, calls the conduct of the Pakistani warship's commanding officer most unprofessional and speaks candidly about the Indian Air Force's reservations over integrated theatre commands.He also reveals how a joint military plan prepared a year before Pulwama helped shape India's response at Balakot, why India needs three aircraft carriers, how delays have hurt the submarine programme and why he calls India's shipbuilding capacity pathetic. From sea-based nuclear deterrence to drones, modern naval warfare and the challenges of military integration, the former Navy chief offers an insider's perspective on India's defence preparedness.YouTube Tags: Admiral Sunil Lanba, Sunil Lanba interview, Prasad Sanyal, Indian Navy, India China war, China Navy, Pakistan Navy, India Pakistan, Pakistani warship collision, INS Kolkata, Operation Sindoor, Pulwama, Balakot airstrike, Indian Air Force, theatre commands, Indian aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant, Indian submarines, Project 75I, nuclear deterrence, nuclear triad, Indian Ocean, naval warfare, Indian defence, military strategy, DefenceHQ, TOI DefenceHQ, Times of IndiaHashtags: #DefenceHQ #IndianNavy #SunilLanba #PrasadSanyal #IndiaChina #PakistanNavy #TheatreCommands #TheTimesOfIndia00:00 Intro & Highlights02:20 Meet Former Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba03:55 Indias Maritime Power & Why the Seas Matter06:40 India-Pakistan Warship Collision Explained08:05 What Happens When Rival Warships Get Too Close?09:35 Admiral Lanbas Journey in the Indian Navy11:05 Navigation Before GPS: How the Navy Operated12:50 Tracking Chinese Ships in the Indian Ocean15:55 Commanding Indian Navy Warships17:35 Indias Naval Indigenisation Journey21:40 Can Indian Warships Defend Against Drone Attacks?24:15 Why India Needs Aircraft Carriers27:20 Why Landing on an Aircraft Carrier Is So Difficult28:50 Why India Needs Three Aircraft Carriers29:30 How the Navy Responds During a Crisis31:30 Indias Submarine Fleet & The China Challenge33:40 Why Indias Submarine Programme Faced Delays35:55 Nuclear vs Conventional Submarines38:00 The Cost of Delays in Submarine Projects39:00 Indias Nuclear Deterrence & Second-Strike Capability41:30 Working With Army & Air Force Chiefs43:25 Why India Needs Integrated Theatre Commands46:05 What Is Holding Back Theatre Commands?48:20 Navy vs Army vs Air Force: Command Challenges50:45 What Does the Indian Navy Need Today?52:55 Chinas Massive Navy vs India54:30 Indias Advantage Over China in the Indian Ocean55:00 Rapid Fire: Carrier, Submarine, BrahMos & More56:05 Admiral Lanbas Favourite Warship58:05 The Indian Navy of 203558:35 What India Still Doesnt Understand About the Sea59:40 Why India Needs Holistic Maritime Power1:00:28 Closing
IWL: Upbeat East Bengal eyes a historic third straight title
The Kolkata outfit takes on three-time former champion Gokulam Kerala FC in the opening match at the Kalyani Stadium on Friday
Former Kolkata Police DC's Assets Worth Rs 2.78 Cr Attached By ED
The Enforcement Directorate has provisionally attached immovable assets worth Rs 2.78 crore belonging to former Kolkata Police deputy commissioner Santanu Sinha Biswas. This action is part of an ongoing money laundering and corruption investigation involving city-based strongman Sona Pappu. Biswas, who was arrested in May, is accused of using his position to facilitate illegal activities, including land grabbing and extortion, and receiving substantial financial benefits. Kolkata Police has also initiated a separate case under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday said it has attached immovable properties worth Rs 2.78 crore of ex-DCP Kolkata, Santanu Sinha Biswas, and his family members and associates in the case of history-sheeter Biswajit Poddar alias Sona Pappu and others. The attached properties include three flats located in Kolkata and land at Kandi in West Bengal's Murshidabad as Proceeds of Crime under PMLA 2002. The properties were attached under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. ED's Kolkata Zonal Office-II provisionally attached immovable properties of Santanu, his family members and associates in the case. ED investigation was initiated based on multiple FIRs registered by West Bengal Police against Sona Pappu and others involving complaints of murder, extortion and land-grabbing. Earlier, ED had conducted searches at multiple premises on April 1, April 19, April 26 and May 22 in Kolkata and nearby places, including the residential premises of Santanu, Jay S...
SMAT: ISPL prodigy Vivek Shelar earns maiden call-up to Maharashtra's squad
Hailing from Bhiwandi, the 26-year-old speedster has delivered impressive performances in his debut ISPL season. Representing Tiigers of Kolkata, Shelar claimed nine wickets, including a hat-trick in the eliminator. He also clocked a speed of 145.2 kmph during the tournament
Stray Dog Causes Near Miss at Kolkata Airport, Prompting Safety Concerns
A stray dog on the runway at Kolkata Airport nearly caused a major incident, leading to urgent safety reviews. Stray Dog Causes Near Miss at Kolkata Airport, Prompting Safety Concerns
Only farmers not responsible for Delhi pollution, reiterate farmer leaders amidst rising car sales
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 12 (IANS) For years, farmers in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh have found themselves at the centre of Delhi-NCR's annual pollution debate especially if one of these states were ruled by a different political party over the issue of burning crop stubble between agricultural cycles. Farmer organisations have repeatedly argued that while stubble burning contributes to seasonal pollution, it has been unfairly portrayed as the principal culprit. Now, there is a cautious sigh of relief among the farmers of the region as the onus shifts to traffic emissions, with a prominent union leader calling for family planning of cars. Welcoming the Supreme Courts intervention this week, Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS) General Secretary Mohini Mohan Mishra asked states to withdraw such cases against farmers and return any fines imposed on them with interest. The strong objection raised by the Supreme Court against blaming only farmers for pollution makes it clear that farmers are not the primary cause of pollution, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)-affiliated farmer organisation leader said. The administration should pay attention to pollution from vehicles. There should be family planning for cars with respect to the numbers owned by a family, he emphasised. The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), the peasant wing of the Communist Party of India (CPI), meanwhile, blamed government policies penalising the farming community. Agriculture has been painted as a polluting job, while legislations are framed to support corporates, AIKS President Rajan Kshirsagar alleged. Weve been repeatedly stressing that stubble burning is not the principal reason for pollution in Delhi and the NCR, as it is evident, he added. The Supreme Court's observation, while hearing on Delhi-NCR's pollution crisis, questioned the tendency to place the entire burden of blame on farmers, while a report has highlighted transport as the largest local pollution contributor, while stubble burning's impact declined closer to Diwali. Levels of nitrogen dioxide in the air peaked during evening rush hours and stayed high until midnight, reflecting the impact of traffic congestion, according to an analysis by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). The apex court observed that stubble burning is only one among several contributors to deteriorating air quality and drew attention to the much larger challenge posed by vehicular emissions. Each winter, images of stubble-burning fields dominate television screens, often reinforcing the perception that farmers are chiefly responsible for the Capital's toxic air. The bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana has now directed Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan governments to submit plans covering vehicular movement, emission standards and measures to curb polluting vehicles. The Supreme Court noted that during the Covid-19 lockdown, stubble burning had not entirely ceased, yet Delhi witnessed significantly clearer skies, suggesting that factors beyond farm fires play a decisive role in the pollution crisis. The apex court's remarks also echoed scientific assessments. Data suggested that stubble burning accounted for around 14 per cent of Delhi's pollution contribution on November 5, while transportation remained one of the largest local sources of emissions. The CSE has consistently argued that Delhi's air quality problem is multi-source in nature, stemming from vehicular pollution, industrial emissions, construction dust, waste burning and adverse meteorological conditions, with crop residue burning acting as an aggravating rather than exclusive factor. Earlier reports this year by the CSE said that between 1,800 and 2,000 new vehicles are added to Delhis roads daily, where, as of 2024-2025, its total registered vehicle count crossed 15.6 million, with a significant surge in private two-wheelers and cars. Additionally, the number of registered vehicles in Delhi matches the combined total of registered vehicles in the three metropolitan cities of Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai. According to the Economic Survey of Delhi 2025-26, an additional 643,000 vehicles were added in the national capital, which incidentally is the largest single-year increase in nine years. Farmer unions emphasise that the larger lesson emerging is that Delhi's pollution crisis cannot be solved through a single-point blame game; while largely acknowledging the need to reduce stubble burning, they urge for solutions to be practical, incentive-based and equitable.
Bengal Police launch probe into Gaighata encounter incident
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The West Bengal Police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) will investigate the encounter of rape and murder accused Prahlad Das in Gaighata of North 24 Parganas district, a government official said on Thursday. A CID delegation led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officer inspected the crime scene earlier in the day. According to the government official, the investigators are trying to understand where the shooting took place and how the accused tried to escape. On October 25, the body of a 17-year-old girl was recovered in Gaighata. On October 24, the victim had gone to a jalsa near her home where her friends and family members were also present. The jalsa went on until late at night. Her family claimed that the girl received a call at around 11:30 p.m. on October 24. After receiving the call, she left the event following which she went missing. The girl's naked and injured body was recovered the next morning. The victim's family claimed that she was raped and murdered. After the initial investigation, the police arrested Prahlad Das, a distant relative of the girl, on the day the body was recovered. The police suspected that the youth had offered the girl physical intimacy. When the girl did not agree, he hit her on the head with a heavy object. When the girl lost consciousness, the accused tortured her. The youth fled the area leaving the girl in a bloody state. Police sources claimed that there were scuffles, nail scratches, etc. on her body. Police reconstructed the incident with the accused in the middle of the night. Police sources claimed that the accused attacked the policemen while returning after the reconstruction phase of the incident on the night of October 27. At one point, Prahlad snatched the policeman's revolver and ran away. Police claimed that he fired three rounds in which a policeman was injured. However, it is not known whether the policeman was shot or not. However, the police vehicle in which the accused was taken has a bullet mark. The source claimed that the police also fired four rounds in self-defence. Prahlad died in retaliatory fire by the police. This time, the CID has launched an investigation into the incident.
ED attaches assets worth Rs 2.78 cr belonging to ex-Kolkata Police DCP in Sona Pappu case
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate's (ED) Kolkata Zonal Office has provisionally attached immovable properties worth Rs 2.78 crore belonging to former Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Santanu Sinha Biswas, his family members, and his associates in connection with the Sona Pappu money laundering case. In a statement issued on Thursday, the central agency confirmed that the assets, comprising three flats in Kolkata and parcels of land at Kandi in Murshidabad district, were attached as proceeds of crime under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. The ED initiated its investigation based on multiple FIRs registered by the West Bengal Police against alleged criminal Biswajit Podder, alias Sona Pappu, and his associates involving charges of murder, extortion, and land-grabbing. Earlier in the probe, ED sleuths conducted coordinated raids across Kolkata and adjoining areas, searching the residences of Biswas, Jay S. Kamdar, and Podder. Those searches resulted in the seizure of Rs 1.64 crore in cash, gold jewellery, a Toyota Fortuner car, an unlicensed revolver, and various incriminating documents and digital devices. Following the raids, the agency arrested all three accused, who are currently remanded in judicial custody. According to the agency's findings, the proceeds of crime were generated through extortion, illegal real estate grabbing, and unauthorised construction carried out via entities controlled by Podder, Kamdar, and their associates. Investigators revealed that Biswas, who previously served as the Officer-in-Charge of Kalighat Police Station before his elevation as DCP, developed a close nexus with Kamdar during his stint at Kalighat and actively facilitated his illicit operations. Through this association, Kamdar allegedly wielded significant clout within the police establishment. The ED statement further noted that Biswas directly and indirectly acquired, concealed, and possessed proceeds of crime amounting to at least Rs 2.89 crore.
Calcutta HC expresses anguish over Abhishek Banerjee's derogatory remarks against judiciary
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) A single-judge vacation bench of the Calcutta High Court on Thursday expressed anguish over some reported derogatory comments made by the Trinamool Congress General Secretary and the party's Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member Abhishek Banerjee accusing a section of the Judiciary as iased. The occasion was the final hearing on a petition by Abhishek Banerjee, also the nephew of the former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, seeking restoration of his -Plus security. The final hearing was taking place at the single-judge vacation bench of Justice Krishna Rao. During the hearing in the matter, the state government Counsel and the state's Additional Advocate General, Billawdal Bhattacharya, drew the attention of the court to a recent social media message made by the Diamond Harbour MP accusing the Kolkata Police of maintaining constant surveillance around his residence and snooping on him. Bhattacharya claimed that in the social media message, Abhishek Banerjee made some remarks that directly challenged the country's judicial system and the dignity of the courts, and therefore he should be booked under contempt of court charges. I am submitting an interview of the plaintiff to the court. That interview amounts to contempt of court. He has insulted the judges, even mentioned their names. The court cannot be fooled like this. This is contempt of court. Criminal action should be taken against him (Abhishek Banerjee), the Additional Advocate General said. Thereafter, Abhishek Banerjee's Counsel said that his clients' comments were in the context of certain developments where petitions filed by him were pending before the the court for several months. Thereafter, Justice Rao expressed his displeasure after this comment. In very strict language, Justice Rao ordered Abhishek Banerjee's lawyer to submit a complete list of which judges are with the Bharatiya Janata Party and which are with the Trinamool Congress. Ask your client (Abhishek Banerjee) which judges are with the BJP and which are not! He thinks he is very intelligent. Ask him to give a list; I will look into it, Justice Rao said.
CAQM Chief visits Punjab as stubble burning cases cross 5,500
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) With the number of farm fires in Punjab crossing the 5,500 mark by Wednesday, Union Minister of Environment Bhupender Yadav directed Rajesh Verma, chairperson, Centre for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas, to visit the state and review the situation. Verma visited Fatehgarh Sahib, Khanna and Patiala on Thursday, November 12, 2026, to review crop residue management and enforcement measures amid the recent rise in stubble-burning incidents. During his meeting with officials, the CAQM chief focused on intensified patrolling, satellite monitoring of fire hotspots, effective utilisation of CRM machinery and promoting the use of paddy straw as industrial boiler fuel. Directions were issued to district administrations and police for strict enforcement, stronger coordination, enhanced field monitoring and zero tolerance towards stubble burning, the ministry has said. On November 11, the cumulative number of stubble burning cases in the district reached 5,517. The maximum number of cases were reported from the Ferozepur, Tarn Taran and Sangrur districts. Despite government orders, farmers are continuing with the activity. On November 10, there were 345 fresh incidents in the state. A day later, 515 cases were reported, impacting air quality in the Delhi NCR region severely. According to government statistics, 4,657 cases of stubble burning were recorded in the state between September 15 and November 9. Ferozepur contributed 728 of these, followed by Tarn Taran (687), Sangrur (628) and Bathinda (499). Authorities have swung into action and registered 1,259 FIRs under Section 223 (disobedience of order promulgated by public servant) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Fines, totalling more than Rs 85 lakh, have been imposed in 1,695 cases. Of this, nearly Rs 37 lakh has been recovered. The government has also made 1,637 red entries in land records for stubble burning. A farmer with a red entry is not entitled to receive a loan against his farmland or sell it. Farmers resort to stubble burning to clear their farmlands for the wheat crop immediately after paddy is harvested in October and November. The monitoring period starts from September 15, two weeks ahead of paddy procurement. While incidents continue to be reported, numbers have come down significantly over the last few years. In 2023, the number of cases reported was 36,663. This fell to 10,909 in 2024 and 5,114 in 2025. The figure has gone up this year. Officials have said that not all farm fires get recorded, as farmers have shifted the timing to between 4 pm and 6 pm to avoid the standard afternoon satellite observation period.
Indian envoy meets Mongolias First Deputy PM, discusses mutual cooperation
Digital Desk | Ulaanbaatar, Nov 12 (IANS) Indias Ambassador to Mongolia, Atul Malhari Gotsurve, on Thursday met Mongolias First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development, J Enkhbayar and discussed various issues of mutual cooperation, the Indian Embassy in Ulaanbaatar said. On 12 Nov 2026, HE Mr Atul Malhari Gotsurve, Ambassador of India to Mongolia, met with HE Mr. J. Enkhbayar, First Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia and Minister of Economy and Development at the Ministry of Economy and Development and discussed various issues of mutual cooperation, the Embassy posted on X. On Wednesday, Ambassador Gotsurve and members of the Indian diaspora in Mongolia participated virtually in the launch of the website of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2027, to be held in Kolkata from January 7 to 9, 2027. On Tuesday, Ambassador Gotsurve, as part of the diplomatic corps, attended the special session of the Parliament of Mongolia at the State Palace to commemorate the 820th anniversary of the establishment of the Mongolian Empire, the 864th birth anniversary of Chinggis Khaan and the National Pride Day of Mongolia. The session was addressed by the President of Mongolia H E Mr U Khurelsukh and Chairman of the Parliament, H.E M S Byambatsogt, the Embassy said. Last week, addressing members of the Indian community in Ulaanbaatar, Ambassador Gotsurve spoke about the latest important developments in India-Mongolia bilateral ties including the commencement of the direct non-stop flights between India and Mongolia, the Embassy had said. Last month, India and Mongolia held the 14th Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting in Ulaanbaatar, reiterating their commitment to further strengthen defence cooperation and promote regional peace and security. Both countries reaffirmed their longstanding bonds of friendship and mutual trust, and reiterated their commitment to further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and promoting regional peace and security, the Ministry of Defence had said. Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Ishita Ganguly Tripathi, and Mongolias Deputy State Secretary Brigadier General Gansukh E had co-chaired the meeting.
Rapido's Ownly aims to strengthen presence in five markets by 2026-end
Rapido's food delivery platform Ownly plans to deepen its presence in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai and Ahmedabad by the end of 2026, while expanding its operations to Kolkata
Indonesian Woman Held For Fake Indian IDs At Nepal Border
An Indonesian woman was arrested at the India-Nepal border in Maharajganj for allegedly concealing her nationality and fraudulently obtaining Indian identity documents like voter ID, Aadhaar, and PAN cards. She was living under a fake name, 'Lee Kim Lian', since 2005, despite her Indonesian passport identifying her as 'Rohana'. Investigations revealed extensive international travel and associations with a Buddhist centre in Kolkata.
Assam Train Derailment: A major train accident recently occurred in Assam. Meanwhile, let's explore the different types of brakes on a train engine and how an accident like the one in Assam can be avoided.Train derailment in AssamAssam Train Derailment: The derailment of the Kolkata Sair...
Abhishek Banerjee Vows to Fight On After Demolition of Structures Outside His Residence
Abhishek Banerjee remains defiant after Kolkata authorities demolish structures outside his home, pledging to continue his political battle. Abhishek Banerjee Vows to Fight On After Demolition of Structures Outside His Residence
Bulldozer rolls up outside Abhishek Banerjees Kolkata house; gate razed
Punjab Kings Co-Owner Ness Wadia Backs Juhi Chawla In Moving Up IPL To January
Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia has endorsed Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Juhi Chawla's idea of starting the IPL in January provided there is scope for a change of schedule.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the appointment of coordinators within municipal wards starting December 1. He criticised opposition parties for obstructing the electoral process due to fear of defeat and highlighted long-standing civic service deprivations. Adhikari pledged to approach the Supreme Court regarding delays in the Kolkata Municipal Corporation elections. Municipal officials are unable to fully substitute elected representatives, according to the Chief Minister.
Air India Passenger Arrested for False Hijack Threat on Kolkata-Mumbai Flight
A passenger was arrested for making a false hijack threat on an Air India flight from Kolkata to Mumbai, leading to heightened security measures. Air India Passenger Arrested for False Hijack Threat on Kolkata-Mumbai Flight
IPL in January? Ness Wadia Backs Juhi Chawla's Schedule Shift Idea
Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia has endorsed Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Juhi Chawla's idea of starting the IPL in January provided there is scope for a change of schedule.
Firecracker dealers push for relaxed Diwali timings from 8 pm to midnight
Lensman Hirak Sen, chronicler of Satyajit Rays later years and Oscar moment, dies
'Chilling Reminder': Mamata Attacks BJP After TMC Leader Ujjal Biswas' Death
Former West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP of pursuing a politics of vengeance, intimidation and persecution in Bengal following the death of senior TMC leader and former minister Ujjal Biswas, aged 72.In a post on X, Banerjee recalled Biswas' alleged ordeal, claiming he was brutally attacked, implicated in false cases and kept in custody for 49 days. She described his death as a deeply personal loss and criticised what she called the BJP's politics of political retribution.Biswas, a three-time MLA from Krishnanagar South, died at a Kolkata hospital on November 11 following multiple health complications.
22, 24 carat Gold prices down across metro cities on November 12
Air India passenger held over hoax hijack threat on Kolkata-Mumbai flight
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) A passenger was apprehended and handed over to the airport police after allegedly being linked to a hoax hijack threat targeting an Air India flight from Kolkata to Mumbai, officials said on Thursday. According to the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the action followed an incident on Wednesday involving Air India flight AI 2772 after a handwritten threat note was found inside the aircraft's lavatory shortly before its scheduled departure. The note, which warned that the aircraft would be hijacked at 11.10 a.m., was discovered by a cabin crew member at around 10.37 a.m. The alert immediately triggered standard security protocols, prompting authorities to initiate a comprehensive security response. As part of the precautionary measures, all 105 passengers on board were deboarded and the aircraft was moved to an isolation bay for detailed inspection and security checks. Multiple security agencies conducted mandatory screening procedures to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. The flight, originally scheduled to depart at around 10.30 a.m., remained grounded for several hours while security personnel completed the required checks. After authorities found no credible threat, the warning was declared a hoax. The aircraft was subsequently cleared for operations and departed for Mumbai at 5.38 p.m. AAI said the passenger linked to the incident was later handed over to the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport Police Station for further investigation. Authorities have launched a probe into the matter and are examining the circumstances surrounding the threat note. Meanwhile, last month, an Air India flight from Frankfurt to Delhi made an emergency landing in Jaipur after reportedly transmitting Squawk 7500, the international code used to indicate a hijacking. Reports claim that the alert was received by Ahmedabad Air Traffic Control (ATC), following which the aircraft landed safely in Jaipur. Further details about the circumstances that triggered the alert were not immediately available. Squawk 7500 is an internationally recognised aviation transponder code that pilots use to discreetly alert air traffic control to a hijacking or unlawful interference with an aircraft.
Bulldozer Rolls Up Outside TMC MP Abhishek's Kolkata Residence As Civic Body Clears Footpath
A bulldozer was deployed outside TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's residence here on Thursday as civic workers demolished a temporary bamboo shed erected over the footpath and removed an iron gate allegedly obstructing pedestrian movement. A large contingent of Kolkata Police personnel
Why Is A Bihar Collectorate On Auction? All About The Rs 4 Crore Case
A court-directed payment of Rs 4.17 crore to a Kolkata firm has triggered auction proceedings against a portion of the Madhubani Collectorate property after the dues remained unpaid for over a year.
Bulldozer clears footpath outside TMC MP Abhishek
Kolkata: A bulldozer was deployed outside TMC MP Abhishek Banerjees residence here on Thursday, November 12, as civic workers demolished a temporary bamboo shed erected over the footpath and removed an iron gate allegedly obstructing pedestrian movement. A large contingent of Kolkata Police personnel and central forces was deployed outside the TMC national general secretarys 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 .
Flier arrested for hijack threat to Mumbai-Kolkata AI flight
A passenger has been apprehended following a hoax hijack threat that significantly delayed an Air India flight from Kolkata to Mumbai on Wednesday.
Passenger held over hijack threat to Kolkata-Mumbai Air India flight
The passenger was handed over to the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport Police Station
Passenger held over hoax hijack threat to Air India Kolkata-Mumbai flight
A passenger was apprehended and handed over to the airport police in connection with a hoax hijack threat to an Air India flight from Kolkata to Mumbai, officials said on Thursday. In a release, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said the action was taken over Wednesday's incident involving Air India flight AI 2772, which was delayed for several hours after a handwritten threat note was found inside the aircraft's lavatory before take-off. The passenger was handed over to the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport Police Station, it said. The note, warning that the aircraft would be hijacked at 11.10 am on Wednesday, was discovered by a cabin crew member around 10.37 am, prompting security agencies to initiate mandatory safety checks. All 105 passengers on board were deboarded, and the aircraft was moved to an isolation bay for thorough security checks. The flight, originally scheduled to depart around 10.30 am, eventually left for Mumbai at 5.38 pm, after th
Bulldozer reaches outside Abhishek Banerjees house: Tin shade, boundary gate removed
The development came days after a clash erupted in front of Abhishek Banerjees house after the Diamond Harbour MP alleged that he was attacked by the goons of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on November 7
Gold, silver prices today, 12 November: Check retail price of 18K, 22K and 24K gold and 999 Fine silver in your cities Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
Abhishek Banerjees Bamboo Structure Removed by KMC Amid Controversy
Kolkata Municipal Corporation removes bamboo structure outside Abhishek Banerjees home amid rising tensions and local complaints. Abhishek Banerjees Bamboo Structure Removed by KMC Amid Controversy
Cancer patient arrested over hoax hijack threat on Air India flight at Kolkata airport
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) A 56-year-old cancer patient has been arrested in connection with the hoax hijack alert at a Mumbai-boundAir India flight on November 10, following which the flight had to be taken to the isolation bay at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, as a result of which the departure of the flight was delayed for around seven hours. The accused has been identified as Partha Pratim Nandi. He was first arrested by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel deputed for security at the airport and later handed over to cops of the NSCBI Airport Police Station under the Bidhannagar City Police, under which the airport comes. Sources aware of the development said that during interrogation, Nandi confessed that he planted the hoax hijack alert note on the flight, which resulted in the following chaos. He has also confessed to the reason that prompted him to take such a step, which was quite tragic. Nandi claimed that both he and his wife were cancer patients, and he was first supposed to move to Mumbai and subsequently from there to Africa for a job. However, as per his confession, he was unwilling to leave his cancer-affected wife alone in Kolkata and go to faraway Africa. As per his confession, he was in a disturbed state of mind while leaving the city on Wednesday, and committed the act of planting the hoax hijack alert note on the Air Flight, which he was supposed to take to Mumbai. I understand the tragic circumstances under which the accused had committed this act. But what he has done is strictly punishable under the law. Because of his act, so many other passengers who were supposed to fly to Mumbai, some with urgent purposes, including scheduled medical appointments, had to suffer. So, the law will take its own course, a Bidhannagar City Police officer said. On Wednesday, the pilot received the threat as the flight was preparing for take-off and immediately alerted Air Traffic Control (ATC). The flight was immediately shifted to an isolation bay, and security personnel immediately started search operations. Finally, the hijack alert turned out to be a hoax. The note warning that the plane would be hijacked was recovered in the flight's toilet, which was noticed by someone.
Hyderabad beats five major metros in Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026
Hyderabad: In the Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2026, Hyderabad has outperformed five major metros, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kolkata, to emerge as the best-performing city among Indias six major metropolitan cities. In the ranking, the city bagged the 19th position among urban centres with a population of more than 10 lakh. In the assessment conducted 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: Passenger apprehended after threat alert on Kolkata-Mumbai Air India flight
One passenger was apprehended and handed over to the airport police following a threat alert involving an Air India flight scheduled to operate from Kolkata to Mumbai, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said in a press note on Thursday. The incident involved Air India flight AI 2772 (Kolkata-Mumbai) on Wednesday (November 11). Following the threat alert shortly before its scheduled departure, the aircraft was moved to the isolation bay at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport in Kolkata as a precautionary measure. Security agencies immediately reached the spot and initiated necessary security checks in accordance with established standard operating procedures (SOPs). According to sources, the aircraft had received a threat alert, following which airport authorities shifted it to the isolation bay to ensure the safety of passengers, crew members and airport personnel. The situation was subsequently assessed by the concerned security agencies. In an update issued on...
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Thursday expressed gratitude to the Centre and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving the state an opportunity to host the 19th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention in Kolkata from January 7 to 9, 2027, describing the event as a major opportunity to showcase a new Bengal before the world. Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Ghosh said that following the political changes in West Bengal, the state had attracted global attention and that hosting the prestigious convention would provide an opportunity to strengthen its image. This is a great opportunity for Bengal. Following the changes that have taken place in Bengal, the entire world has its eyes fixed here. I thank the central government and Prime Minister Modi for giving Bengal the opportunity to host this event... The cooperation of all is needed to build a new Bengal. This is a major opportunity for us, he said. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that Prime Minister Nar...
Dilip Ghosh thanks Centre for 19th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Kolkata
The News Mill
KMC removes makeshift bamboo structure near Abhishek Banerjees Kolkata residence
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Nov 12 (IANS) The staff of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), with the help of the personnel from the Kolkata Police, on Thursday removed a makeshift bamboo structure in front of the residence of the Trinamool Congress general secretary and the partys Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha member, Abhishek Banerjee, at Kalighat in South Kolkata. The process of removing the makeshift bamboo structure was started by Trinamool Congress workers on Wednesday evening. However, the process was completed later after KMC staff, accompanied by the police, reached the spot with a bulldozer on Thursday morning, demolishing the structure and removing it. The entire demolition work was conducted in the presence of a huge police contingent, who were there to prevent any escalation of tension. An iron gate, which was installed outside the boundary wall of the Diamond Harbour MP's residence for a long time, was also removed. The iron gate was first cut with a gas cutter by KMC staff and then removed. The local people had been complaining that this iron gate was installed by encroaching on the footpath. Trinamool Congress spokesman Arka Kumar Nag, who is also one of the counsels of Abhishek Banerjee, claimed that the process of removing the makeshift structure was initiated on Wednesday evening by the Trinamool Congress staff following the instructions of the Diamond Harbour MP. The temporary structure was meant for the seating arrangement of the police personnel when the Diamond Harbour MP was entitled to Z-Plus security during the previous regime. Now, after that change of regime, the Z-Plus security had been lifted. So, there was no use for that makeshift construction. Hence, the Diamond Harbour MP instructed the removal of the makeshift bamboo structure, Nag said. The shed in front of Abhishek's house has been a topic of debate for the past few days. Tensions flared up in Kalighat on the intervening night of November 6 and November 7 over the MP's birthday celebrations. At that time, many people were seen gathering under the temporary shed. Apart from this, many local residents also started raising questions about the temporary structure. It is alleged that the temporary shed on the footpath was causing problems for pedestrians. On Wednesday, Abhishek Banerjee accused the Kolkata Police of maintaining constant surveillance around his residence and snooping on him in a social media post. Soon after that, the Trinamool Congress workers began removing the makeshift bamboo structure, and the process was completed this morning by KMC staff with the help of police.
West Bengal Weather Update: Light Rain Likely in Several Districts, Temperatures to Drop by 2
Kolkata, November 12, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): Most districts of West Bengal are expected to experience dry weather on Thursday. However, isolated areas of South Bengal may receive light West Bengal Weather Update: Light Rain Likely in Several Districts, Temperatures to Drop by 23C
Kolkata Municipal Corporation Removes Temporary Structure Outside MP Abhishek Banerjees Residence
Kolkatas municipal authorities dismantled a security structure outside MP Abhishek Banerjees home, prompting criticism from Minister Dilip Ghosh. Kolkata Municipal Corporation Removes Temporary Structure Outside MP Abhishek Banerjees Residence
Abhishek Banerjee's residence in Kolkata sees bulldozer action, KMC removes temporary structure
Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) officials on Thursday morning removed a temporary bamboo structure erected on the footpath outside Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee's residence in Kalighat, Kolkata. Civic officials arrived at the site with a bulldozer and cleared the structure, which they said was causing inconvenience to pedestrians.
Mumbai-bound Air India flight receives hijack threat in Kolkata
All 105 passengers were deboarded, and it was taken to the isolation bay and later cleared for take-off.
Watch: Illegal tin shed removed at TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's Kalighat residence
Abhishek Banerjee raised concerns about ongoing surveillance by Kolkata Police near his residence. Following a previous attack during his birthday celebrations, he fears another incident may be planned. The temporary shed outside his house was removed by the municipal corporation on police orders. Despite multiple complaints, Banerjee accused the BJP government of failing to take action against the situation.
