facebook

States

...

Israeli airstrike on southern Lebanon kills 7 people, Lebanese state media say

State-run National News Agency said the airstrike targeted a home on the edge of the village of Ansar and that paramedics were still searching through the rubble

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 1:55 pm

Tension in Hanur after three suspected poachers killed in shoot-out in Karnataka forest

According to reports, a group of six suspected poachers allegedly opened fire at forest personnel on night patrol when they were told to surrender

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 1:24 pm

CM Calls Sikkim First Kidney Transplant Procedure Historic Moment In Sikkim Medical Healthcare

Gangtok, Aug 15: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) on Saturday called the start of kidney transplant procedures in the state a historic moment [] The post CM Calls Sikkim First Kidney Transplant Procedure Historic Moment In Sikkim Medical Healthcare appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Voice Of Sikkim 15 Aug 2026 1:19 pm

Security guard held for alleged terror plot targeting Pakistan Army, TTP links in Bengaluru

The accused is a native of North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal who had been working as a security guard at a company in Jigani Industrial Area since December 2025

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 1:09 pm

India must not follow the West: Mohan Bhagwat

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 1:05 pm

From Kathak to Kathakali, a collective ode to India

A new IGNCA video celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram through Indias diverse dance traditions

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:53 pm

PM ModisIndependence Day 2026 speech: Here are the key announcements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlines key initiatives aimed at achieving the goal of a developed India by 2047, says India must focus on key sectors, including digital technologies and nuclear energy

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:51 pm

How student protests changed the course of parliaments monsoon session | The Hindu Editorial

Indias Monsoon Session witnessed intense political battles, student protests, major legislative debates and strong confrontations between the government and the opposition. From the demand for Dharmendra Pradhans resignation and the controversy over the police crackdown on student protesters to debates surrounding delimitation, FCRA amendments and key legislation, the session saw several dramatic developments that reshaped the political narrative. In this editorial, we break down the biggest events of the session, what was passed, what was stalled, and why the battles over student protests, federalism and parliamentary procedure could have long-term political consequences.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:44 pm

A.P. witnessing significant progress with initiatives of government: Minister for MSME Kondapalli Srinivas

Development and welfare were being given equal priority for the overall benefit of the people of the State, said Minister for MSME and NRI Affairs Kondapalli Srinivas

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:43 pm

Indonesia hit by 7.7 magnitude quake, tsunami waves recorded

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck off eastern Indonesia on August 15, killing at least two people and triggering tsunami warnings. Several aftershocks followed the quake, while tsunami waves of less than one metre were recorded in some areas. Rescue teams are working to recover victims and evacuate residents in Maumere.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:32 pm

How India can build a connected education system

Strengthening institutional capacity, measuring outcomes reliably and using better regional data can create more opportunities for all learners

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:27 pm

In 2047, 'Vikshit Bharat' dreams will be realised through 'Viksit Bengal': Suvendu

The Vikshit Bharat dreams of our Prime Minister by 2047 will be realised through Viksit Paschim Banga by that year, says West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:23 pm

Keralas Chokramudi hills to open for tourists as Neelakurinji blooms paint Munnar blue

Mass blooming of Neelakurinji this year is expected to be witnessed across Chokramudi hills, Idalimedu, and Meeshapulimala in Munnar

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:13 pm

Keralas Chokramudi hills to open for tourists as Neelakurinji blooms paint Munnar blue

Mass blooming of Neelakurinji this year is expected to be witnessed across Chokramudi hills, Idalimedu, and Meeshapulimala in Munnar

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:13 pm

Ahead of Onam, Kerala Police seize 3,030 litres of illicit spirit in Thrissur

Police bust illicit liquor stockpiling operation; van driver arrested, key accused under scanner. Seizure as part of Operation Toofan

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:09 pm

Ahead of Onam, Kerala Police seize 3,030 litres of illicit spirit in Thrissur

Police bust illicit liquor stockpiling operation; van driver arrested, key accused under scanner. Seizure as part of Operation Toofan

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:09 pm

Not Statues Or Memorials, Andhra City Honours Mahatma Gandhi With A Temple

The Gandhi Mandiram temple in Srikakulam honors Mahatma Gandhi's visit and the Indian freedom struggle.

NDTV 15 Aug 2026 12:09 pm

Avengers: Doomsday promo: Robert Downey Jr.s Doom unleashes terror on multiverse superheroes

Offering a closer look on Downey Jr.s Victor von Doom, the new promo of the much-awaited superhero spectacle was unveiled by Marvel Studios during a showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:05 pm

Avengers: Doomsday promo: Robert Downey Jr.s Doom unleashes terror on multiverse superheroes

Offering a closer look on Downey Jr.s Victor von Doom, the new promo of the much-awaited superhero spectacle was unveiled by Marvel Studios during a showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 12:05 pm

Committed to goal of J&Ks State restoration, its constitutional guarantees: Omar

M.r Abdullah said the people in PoK would have been fighting to join Jammu and Kashmir if the Centre had not revoked the special constitutional guarantees in 2019

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 11:54 am

Country needs informed citizens, not blind followers for strong democracy, says Deputy CM K. Pawan Kalyan

In the era of technology, information is reaching the people at good speed, but speed is not truth; for a strong democracy, the country needs informed citizens and not blind followers, said K. Pawan Kalyan

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 11:52 am

Avoid blame game on Assam floods, says Nagaland coal miners body

The Tuli Area Coal Mining Contractors Association says people in the two States should refrain from making unverified claims and focus on relief, recovery, and cooperation

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 11:46 am

Ms. Abhista Basnett Honoured with Sikkim State Gold Award for Excellence in Football

Gangtok, Aug 15: Footballer Ms. Abhista Basnett daughter of Mrs. Sakila Rai and Mr. Reewaz Basnett has been conferred with the prestigious Sikkim State Gold [] The post Ms. Abhista Basnett Honoured with Sikkim State Gold Award for Excellence in Football appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .

Voice Of Sikkim 15 Aug 2026 11:46 am

Government reduces export duty on petrol to nil; diesel and ATF duty also reduced

The government has been taking a fortnightly review to ensure domestic availability of the retail fuels

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 11:20 am

CJPs Instagram handle briefly taken down, restored later

What a shame that those who oppose CJP chose India's Independence Day to try to muzzle our voice. We will not be intimidated by such cowardly acts! the outfit said in a post

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 11:13 am

Independence Day 2026: India aims to be strong contender for 2036 Olympics, says PM Modi

We are launching a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to identify prospects in every corner of the country. They will get special training to become world class athletes, says Prime Minister Modi.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:57 am

PM Modi lays out seven-point Sapta Dhara framework for Viksit Bharat

We must build a complete value chain. From design to manufacturing, India must establish itself as a trusted global supply chain partner for the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:55 am

Delhi High Court upholds conviction of man for sexually assaulting 11-year-old boy

The court, however, modified the trial courts 20-year jail term to ten years on the grounds that at the time of the offence, the corresponding sentence was a decade.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:49 am

Tourism pressure threatens Keralas fragile Madayipara

Influx of visitors to an amusement-cum-eco park in the vicinity is posing harm to the rare flora, birds and other wildlife in the region, according to environmentalists, who reiterate that the park is functioning without mandatory permissions. Madayi panchayat authorities too say that licence has not been issued to the park

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:47 am

When a Kerala Facebook collective brought Rajinikanths iconic Baashha roaring back in a throwback to analogue cinema

The screening was about more than the superstar or the film. It was an attempt to recreate the movie-going experience of pre-digital era and draw attention to a fast disappearing world of film reels, projectors and theatre jobs

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:46 am

Independence Day 2026: PM Modi appeals to Oppn. to help implement women quota, says you may take the credit

The Prime Minister also warned against individuals with Maoist mindset dimagi Naxals as he termed them who have entrenched themselves within the corridors of power in the country for decades

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:44 am

Independence Day 2026 | The long way around India on a bicycle

How a photographer travelled five years, 21,000 kilometres, 28 states, and over 180 villages to befriend strangers and learn the everyday routines of his country

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:31 am

CityUHK achieves stellar results again in the ARWU, ranking 2nd in Hong Kong and maintaining its position among the global top 100

CityUHK achieves stellar results again in the ARWU, ranking 2nd in Hong Kong and maintaining its position among the global top 100

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:30 am

VICTORINOX INDIA WELCOMES ABHAY DEOL AS A FRIEND OF THE BRAND

VICTORINOX INDIA WELCOMES ABHAY DEOL AS A FRIEND OF THE BRAND

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:30 am

Onam 2026: How chefs are reimagining the traditional Kerala feast

Olan is now being turned into a consomm, pradhaman into cake and pal payasam into ice cream. While some chefs are embracing the change. Others say the sadya is not something that needs fixing.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:25 am

Dipke set to launch School Thik Karo campaign, accuses parties of neglecting govt-run schools

We have made a new Parliament, a new PM house. Why have we not been able to build new schools in our villages? Do we not consider the children of farmers and labourers the future of our country?, Abhijeet Dipke asked.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:16 am

Arunachal: AAPSU withdraws bandh, demands strict enforcement of new recruitment rules

Guwahati: The All Arunachal Pradesh Students Union (AAPSU) said it will oppose the next government recruitment process if it does not follow the new eligibility rules approved by the state Cabinet. The union has also withdrawn its planned August 17 bandh after the government met its demands within the deadline, AAPSU President Meje Taku said [] The post Arunachal: AAPSU withdraws bandh, demands strict enforcement of new recruitment rules appeared first on NorthEast Now .

NorthEast Now 15 Aug 2026 10:15 am

Can weather affect your periods? And when should you seek medical help?

Extreme heat, humidity, cold weather and changes in routine can make periods harder to manage. But persistent changes in cycle length, bleeding or pain should not simply be blamed on the weather; medical attention should be sought

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:13 am

Women unite in Keralas Thiruvananthapuram for Resurge celebrating safety and empowerment in public spaces

Students, hostellers, working women, activists all took part in Resurge Safe Women, Safe Kerala that was organised by the Women and Child Development department

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:08 am

PM Modis Independence Day speech shortest in 4 years

Last year, Narendra Modi had broken Indira Gandhi's record by delivering 12 consecutive speeches from the Red Fort, to stand next only to Jawaharlal Nehru, who delivered 17 Independence Day addresses in a row

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 10:07 am

Karnataka: Wild encounters on the way to school

The encounter of school children with a leopard at Marathi Camp has brought into focus the difficulties faced by children living in remote villages in the Malnad region, where human settlements and agricultural land are surrounded by forests and wildlife habitats

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 9:53 am

MSC Elsa 3 shipwreck: No significant environmental impact on Lakshadweep islands and coastal areas, says NCSCM research

However, the incident has underscored the inherent vulnerability of remote island ecosystems to maritime accidents, according to the report

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 9:50 am

A.P.s Mega DSC-2025: What are the allegations and how has the government responded? | Explained

The controversy surrounding Mega DSC-2025 has led to 335 cases being filed in courts, including three cases in the Supreme Court and three PILs concerning various aspects of the recruitment process

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 9:43 am

D-Street ends in red for a third week on West Asia deal delay, oil spike

The Indian equity market saw a decline on Friday, ending a lackluster trading week as geopolitical tensions and rising crude oil prices loomed over Dalal Street. With the benchmark indices marking their third consecutive week of losses, market apprehensions were evident. Despite this, the results season brought some volatility, with a notable interest from both foreign and domestic institutions amidst the ongoing market fluctuations.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 9:33 am

I-Day Address: Modi Urges Parties to Support Women's Reservation

The Prime Minister said women's leadership is essential for shaping the country's policies

Deccan Chronicle 15 Aug 2026 9:31 am

Pleasant Weather Expected on Independence Day, Light Rain Likely in NCR

New Delhi, August 15: On Independence Day, August 15, pleasant weather is anticipated in Delhi-NCR due to active monsoon conditions. Cloud cover will persist, and light rain may provide relief from the heat. The local weather forecast indicates a likelihood of continuous cloudiness and light rain from August 15 to August 20. According to the ... Read more Pleasant Weather Expected on Independence Day, Light Rain Likely in NCR

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 9:30 am

Can gold recycling become Indias next circular economy success story?

As the nation looks for new ways to sustain economic growth and resilience, gold recycling may prove to be one of the most promising cases of a circular economy in the country

The Hindu Businessline 15 Aug 2026 9:30 am

Support women's quota, take credit: PM Modi's appeal to Opposition from Red Fort

Support womens quota take credit PM Modis appeal to Opposition from Red Fort

India Today 15 Aug 2026 9:30 am

Forty years on, has India allowed General Vaidya's sacrifice to fade away?

Soldiers, however senior, can't determine their destinies, and especially so in democracies

Business Standard 15 Aug 2026 9:30 am

Indias edible oil problem is not supply: It is policy uncertainty

Indias edible oil challenge is a coordination problem between agricultural policy, trade policy and consumer protection

The Hindu Businessline 15 Aug 2026 9:29 am

'Dimagi Naxals' looking to create unrest, must identify, isolate them: Modi

New Delhi, Aug 15: Maoist extremism is breathing its last in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday, as he called for identifying and isolating the dimagi Naxals. Addressing the nation on the 80th Independence Day, the prime minister said Naxalism and Maoism destroyed the future of several youths. For four decades, huge areas and people were in their clutches under the fear of guns. Over 3,500 security personnel died protecting people; the number is higher than those who die in war, he said. When we came to power in 2014, we swore to rid the country of Naxals. I am happy Maoist violence is taking its last breath, he said, adding that several areas have become free of Naxalites and are becoming developed. Modi added, For years, those with Naxal mentality had their place in the power corridors. They were in government committees as advisors. Maoist thinking impacted policies. We have succeeded in getting rid of armed Naxals in the jungles, but 'dimagi Naxals' (intellectual Naxals) are looking for opportunities to create violence, unrest They want to drag the society on the wrong path, he said. These 'dimagi Naxals' have to be identified and isolated, and connect the youth with the mainstream, he added.

Greater Kashmir 15 Aug 2026 9:28 am

She works at a bank. But her side business makes more than Rs 7 lakh a month. Yet she refuses to quit her 9-5 job. Why?

A bank employee in Varanasi has built a tiffin business generating Rs 7.27 lakh in monthly revenue, according to social media user Ankit Pandey. Starting with 20 customers in January, the venture now serves 291 students and workers. After Rs 3.03 lakh in monthly expenses, it reportedly earns Rs 4.24 lakh in operating surplus. Despite earning far more through the business, she has no plans to quit her job.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 9:27 am

, '' ...

India Today 15 Aug 2026 9:27 am

RBI to close FCNR(B) swaps a month earlier due to gush

The Reserve Bank of India has moved the FCNR(B) deposit deadline to August 31 in response to better-than-expected foreign currency inflows. This adjustment follows a positive uptake of the swap facility linked to these deposits, with inflows surpassing previous totals. Meanwhile, the swap schemes for External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) and Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings (OFCBs) will proceed as initially scheduled.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 9:26 am

Trump's Iran 'Victory' Takes Wild Turn: President's Own Words Expose A New Hormuz Power Play | Watch

U.S. President Donald Trump made an explosive statement on the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking on Friday, Trump declared that after we finish defeating Iran, he would soon declare the Hormuz Strait a territory of the United States. The remarks come as Washington and Tehran remain locked in a prolonged confrontation, with diplomatic efforts to end the conflict still at an impasse. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints, carrying a substantial share of global oil and LNG shipments. Trump's comments have drawn worldwide attention, raising questions about the future of the critical waterway and the broader geopolitical implications.

The Times of India 15 Aug 2026 9:25 am

PM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: India Must Dream Big And Move Forward

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation from the Red Fort on Indias 80th Independence Day. PM Modi says the chant of Vande Mataram is resonating across the country, with the Tricolour flying in every home and inspiring new resolve. He calls the moment historic and urges Indians to dream bigger, saying great nations advance through dreams, determination and inner strength. PM Modi also expressed solidarity with families affected by recent floods and landslides, assuring them that the entire nation stands with them during this difficult time. Watch

The Times of India 15 Aug 2026 9:25 am

WWII MEMORIAL ATTACKED! Trump Explodes In Fury, Issues BIG ORDER; 'Hunt All Those...'

Donald Trump says investigators are on the trail of those responsible for covering Washingtons World War II Memorial with neon graffiti and soap bubbles. The president called the unidentified suspects animals and linked the incident to a separate Reflecting Pool controversy, despite charges in that earlier case being dropped after faulty renovation work was blamed for some of the damage. No arrests have been announced, and investigators have not established a motive. Watch.

The Times of India 15 Aug 2026 9:25 am

PM Modi Launches Talent Hunt Initiative from Red Fort to Discover Young Athletes

New Delhi, August 15: India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day. On this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort and addressed the nation. In his speech, PM Modi emphasized the potential of sports in the country, the governments future plans for athletics, and reaffirmed Indias commitment to host ... Read more PM Modi Launches Talent Hunt Initiative from Red Fort to Discover Young Athletes

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 9:25 am

PM Modi warns of weaponisation of resources, sea routes; urges energy self-reliance

Without naming any country, Mr. Modi said resources ranging from fuel and medicines to technology were increasingly being used as instruments of geopolitical pressure, while strategic geographical routes were also being weaponised.

The Hindu 15 Aug 2026 9:25 am

Indian Envoy to China Hoists Tricolour in Beijing on I-Day

After the flag hoisting, the gathering was moved to the auditorium on the Embassy premises, where Doraiswami read President Droupadi Murmu's address to the nation.

Deccan Chronicle 15 Aug 2026 9:24 am

Gambhir, Pathan Extends Wishes on Independence Day

Indian men's cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir, the BCCI, and former cricketer Irfan Pathan led tributes on India's 80th Independence Day, honouring freedom fighters and extending greetings to all Indians.

Rediff 15 Aug 2026 9:23 am

Bigg Boss Telugu Agnipariksha Row: Uppa Balu Alleges Humiliation, Accuses Navdeep, Bindu

Social media influencer Uppal Balu also got an audition call. He was one of the participants who managed to reach the final stage after passing through different rounds.

Deccan Chronicle 15 Aug 2026 9:22 am

'Yeh mauke ki talash mein hain': PM Modi calls for isolation of 'dimaagi Naxals' in Independence Day speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called for the identification of 'dimaagi Naxals', referring to people with Maoist mindset, saying such persons have established themselves in the corridors of power and they to be isolated...

India TV 15 Aug 2026 9:22 am

Govinda's wife Sunita Ahuja claims actor is having a rumoured affair with woman 'his daughter's age' in viral video. Who is Komal Rani Swarnkar?

Govinda is facing dating rumours after he was linked to newcomer Komal Rani Swarnkar. His wife, Sunita Ahuja, has publicly reacted to the speculation and questioned the actor's association with the young actress. However, Komal is set to make her Bollywood debut alongside Govinda in upcoming films, but neither of them has confirmed whether they are in a relationship.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 9:22 am

Sunday Motivation by Ozzy Osbourne: Youve got to try and take things to the next level, or youll just get - Why is the comfort zone more dangerous than you think?

Ozzy Osbourne's quote encourages breaking routines and embracing change for progress. Comfort can hinder growth, making it essential to seek new challenges. Taking things to the next level means personal improvement, not just external success. Repetition without growth leads to getting stuck in a rut. Intentional effort drives forward movement in all aspects of life.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 9:21 am

Prime Minister Modi Highlights Indias Progress on Independence Day

New Delhi, August 15: India is celebrating 80 years of independence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation for the 13th time after hoisting the flag at the Red Fort. In his speech, Prime Minister Modi stated, Before 2014, our country had gas supply through pipelines in only 70 cities. In the last 12 years, ... Read more Prime Minister Modi Highlights Indias Progress on Independence Day

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 9:20 am

Wall St Week Ahead: With US Fed silent on next move, investors look to earnings to keep stocks afloat

Investors focus on corporate earnings to offset economic risks and rate concerns. Strong results, particularly from AI infrastructure spending, are bolstering market confidence. Companies are providing positive guidance, suggesting continued economic activity. Geopolitical tensions and oil prices remain potential inflation drivers. However, robust earnings are currently outweighing broader macroeconomic uncertainties.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 9:20 am

Gen Z outreach, Saptdhara roadmap, 'dimaagi' Naxal: PM Modi's big I-Day message

Gen Z outreach Saptdhara roadmap dimaagi Naxal PM Modis big IDay message

India Today 15 Aug 2026 9:18 am

India vs Sri Lanka live streaming: Where to watch 1st Test on Day 1?

The toss for the India-Sri Lanka first Test in Galle will take place at 9:30 am IST on August 15, with the match starting at 10 am. Live streaming will be available on Sony LIV

Business Standard 15 Aug 2026 9:17 am

Independence Day 2026: PM Modi calls for vibrant civil defence network to tackle modern challenges

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged for a stronger civil defence volunteer network. India must prepare for challenges both domestically and internationally. A voluntary force will be established to address modern security concerns. This initiative aims to build a resilient nation ready for any eventuality. The Prime Minister emphasized preparedness for future challenges.

The Economic Times 15 Aug 2026 9:16 am

Jamshedpur professor gets heartfelt farewell from students after 33 years of service

Jamshedpur professor gets heartfelt farewell from students after years of service

India Today 15 Aug 2026 9:16 am

PM Modi presents Saptdharas on 80th Independence Day to boost efforts towards Viksit Bharat by 2047

India aims to make five nuclear reactors operational in this decade, says Modi

The Hindu Businessline 15 Aug 2026 9:16 am

In I-Day speech, PM Modi urges Opposition to back Women's Reservation: 'Time to give them their rights'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address from the Red Fort on August 15, called on political parties to ensure 33% representation for women in State Legislative Assemblies and the Lok Sabha. He...

India TV 15 Aug 2026 9:14 am

Shielding citizens, fueling dreams: PM Modi outlines India's resilience, vision on 80th Independence Day

New Delhi , August 15 : Addressing the nation from the iconic ramparts of the Red Fort on India's 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a firm message of national resilience, economic foresight, and ambitious growth. Highlighting a decade of strategic preparation, PM Modi emphasised how the government successfully insulated citizens and farmers from global shocks, ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic to ongoing geopolitical conflicts in West Asia, while steering the country toward its Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. PM Modi criticised those who were 'spreading rumours' about how the country will face problems over energy, fuel, fertilisers, and other such necessities, but the foresight in preparing for any such eventuality was already thought of a decade ago, and that has helped in keeping the country safe and self-reliant. In the face of rumours and global economic unpredictability, PM Modi highlighted the strength of India's long-term planning and insulation from global crises: Nagrik Devo Bhava. Countering panic over potential fuel and supply shortages during the West Asia crisis, PM Modi assured that strategic reserves and thoughtful planning over the last 10-12 years kept petrol, diesel, and gas readily available. We came out of Corona, and we saw conflicts across the world. So many people predicting the future spread so many rumours; some people are looking to keep people worried, scared. Some people like to see all that from people. West Asia's crisis came; petrol pumps will not give petrol or diesel; people will not get diesel, PM Modi said. Guided by the mantra of Nagrik Devo Bhava (Citizen is Divine), the administration prioritised absorbing financial shocks rather than passing the burden onto the public. Despite global disruptions driving international urea prices to around 3,000, the government continues to supply it to Indian farmers for just 300, heavily subsidising vital inputs like DAP to protect agricultural livelihoods. But the people of the country know how our thoughtful preparations for the last 10-12 years helped us now. After such a crisis, we kept the 'nagrik devo bhava' mantra and took multiple steps; we did not think such a problem would come, but now these preparations came in handy. Now there is gas, petrol, and urea. Urea's price in the world is around Rs 3000 in the world, but we are not letting people bear this burden; instead, we are bearing the cost. Urea, which is Rs 3000, is being given to farmers at Rs 300. Even DAP, we are giving our farmers DAP at a low price, the Prime Minister said. PM Modi also highlighted how defence production has increased nearly four times. In the last 12 years, defence production has increased nearly fourfold, while output from Khadi and village industries has grown almost fivefold. Electronics manufacturing has expanded nearly sevenfold. The production of modern railway coaches has risen 21-fold, and mobile phone production has surged 33-fold. Beyond that, we have made our mark in the realms of digital technology and innovation, he said. PM Modi further expressed strong confidence that India will become a developed nation by 2047. In his Independence Day address, the Prime Minister asked the citizens to work towards realising the dream of Viksit Bharat. The Prime Minister urged citizens to dream big and work towards making those dreams a reality. A nation becomes great and achieves its goals when it moves forward driven by its dreams, its resolve, and its inherent strength. Small dreams will no longer suffice. We must dream big, for big dreams expand our thinking and broaden the horizons of our vision. Our resolve must be steadfast; when our resolve is firm, the capacity to carve a path forward--even amidst difficulties and disasters--naturally emerges, he said. PM Modi hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort. The flag hoisting was synchronised with a 21-Gun Salute by the gunners of the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial). The ceremonial battery used indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns and was commanded by Major Pawan Singh Shekhawat, while Naib Subedar (Assistant Instructor in Gunnery) Anuthosh Sarkar served as the Gun Position Officer. (ANI)

RisingKashmir 15 Aug 2026 9:14 am

Celebrate Independence Day with These Patriotic Songs That Ignite National Pride

Mumbai, August 15: Independence Day is not just a national celebration; it symbolizes the sacrifices of countless brave souls who fought for our freedom. Every year, this occasion is marked by patriotic songs that fill the atmosphere with renewed energy and enthusiasm. These songs convey messages of unity, integrity, and pride in our nation. Here ... Read more Celebrate Independence Day with These Patriotic Songs That Ignite National Pride

Morningstar 15 Aug 2026 9:14 am

Redcliffe Labs, Skyroot take diagnostic research to space

The maiden initiative, DRIFT-1, taken onboard Skyroots mission, will test Redcliffe Labs dry diagnostic reagents in Low Earth Orbit for 90 days, comparing performance against an identical ground control

The Hindu Businessline 15 Aug 2026 9:14 am