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All India Matua Sanghas Gosai Parishad plans one lakh voice Harinam Sankirtan in January
Kolkata, Dec 12 (PTI) The All India Matua Sanghas Gosai Parishad faction on Friday announced plans to hold a lakha kanthe (one-lakh-voice) Harinam Sankirtan in January to reiterate its demand for citizenship for Matua community members and to urge the Election Commission not to delete their names from voter rolls. Gosai Parishad secretary Nantu Halder said the date would be finalised after consultations. We are planning a Harinam Sankirtan with one lakh voices. I will speak to Mamata Bala Didi (TMC MP) about the arrangements and announce the date soon, Halder told reporters. The Gosai Parishad is backed by Trinamool
Assam Cops Submit Chargesheet In Zubeen Garg Death Case
Zubeen Garg, 52, died while swimming in a sea during a yacht trip in Singapore on September 19.
SIT submits over 3,500 chargesheet in Zubeen Garg death case in Guwahati court
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed a 3,500-page chargesheet in the Guwahati Chief Judicial Magistrate's Court concerning the death of singer Zubeen Garg. Garg died under mysterious circumstances in Singapore on September 19 while attending the North East India Festival. The Assam government formed the SIT, which has made seven arrests and examined over 300 witnesses.
Rupee hits new record low; slumps 24 paise to 90.56/USD
Mumbai, Dec 12 (PTI) The rupee depreciated 24 paise to a new record low of 90.56 against US dollar in early trade on Friday, as uncertainty over the India-US trade deal and persistent foreign fund outflows dented investors sentiments. Forex traders said rupee is under pressure largely due to aggressive dollar purchases from importers amid surging global prices for precious metals. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 90.43 against the US dollar, then fell further to 90.56 against the greenback, registering a fall of 24 paise from its previous close. On Thursday, the rupee had plunged 38
Stock markets rally in early trade; Sensex jumps over 400 points
Mumbai, Dec 12 (PTI) Stock market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty surged in early trade on Friday, extending their previous sessions rally, in-tandem with a positive global trends amid a rate cut by the US Federal Reserve. The 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 402.99 points to 85,221.12 during early trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty jumped 115.3 points to 26,013.85. From the Sensex firms, Larsen & Toubro, Tata Steel, Bajaj Finance, UltraTech Cement, Axis Bank and Bharat Electronics were among the major gainers. However, Tech Mahindra, ITC, Infosys, HCL Tech and Hindustan Unilever were the laggards. In Asian markets, South Koreas Kospi,
Assam SIT files charge sheet in Zubeen Garg murder case
GUWAHATI: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Assam Police filed the charge sheet in the high-profile Zubeen Garg murder case in the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Kamrup (Metro), on Friday. The charge sheet was prepared after nearly three months of investigation, during which the SIT recorded the statements of more than 300 people, including a few Singapore-based Assamese expats. The music icon Garg (52) had died mysteriously on September 19 while swimming in the sea in Singapore. He travelled to the country to perform at the 4th North East India Festival (NEIF). Later, the SIT arrested seven persons NEIF organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta, Gargs manager Siddharth Sharma, DSP cousin Sandipan Garg, personal security officers Nandeswar Bora and Prabin Baishya, bandmate Shekhar Jyoti Goswami and singer Amritprabha Mahanta. Recently, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma told the Assembly that one person had murdered Garg and others cooperated. He categorically stated that it was a case of plain and simple murder. They (opposition parties) attacked me asking how I could conclude Zubeen was murdered. But it is in the courts record that this was murder. One person murdered him and others cooperated. We have booked four to five persons on the murder charge, Sarma had stated. Without sharing details, he said a big story (conspiracy) involving Garg started before the Covid pandemic. He indicated that the death was connected to financial matters. We have the evidence. Thats why, I told the SIT to first file the charge sheet on the murder case and then, expand the inquiry so that nobody can escape, Sarma said. He further stated that on the very first day, the government believed Gargs death was not a normal incident and, as such, registered a case under BNS sections 61 (criminal conspiracy), 105 (culpable homicide) and 106 (causing death by negligence). During preliminary investigation, the Assam Police were certain that it was not a case of culpable homicide but a plain and simple murder. So, within two days, the Assam government informed the court that it was a case of murder and requested it to add the BNS section 103. After a debate on it, the court added section 103, Sarma had said.
422 Bodo Liberation Tigers cadres get Rs 2 lakhs as part of rehabilitation package
Over 400 former Bodo Liberation Tigers cadres, previously excluded from rehabilitation, received Rs 2 lakhs each. This initiative is part of a broader peace effort in Assam, following several Memorandums of Settlement with various militant groups since 2020. These efforts have successfully integrated thousands of former cadres into mainstream society through skill development and financial packages.
Japan issues tsunami advisory after 6.7 magnitude quake in countrys northeast
TOKYO, December 12, 2025 (AP) Japan on Friday issued a tsunami advisory after a 6.7 magnitude earthquake shook the countrys northeast, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Damage and injuries werent immediately clear. Fridays quake followed a 7.5 magnitude earthquake earlier this week in the north that caused injuries, light damage and a tsunami in Pacific coastal communities. At least 34 people were injured in that earlier quake on Monday off the coast of Aomori, the northernmost prefecture of Japans main Honshu island.
At least nine people died when a bus overturned on a ghat road in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitarama Raju district. In a separate incident, 21 people from Assam's Tinsukia district are feared dead after their minitruck plunged into a gorge in Arunachal Pradesh's Anjaw district. Prime Minister Modi announced financial compensation for the victims.
What the Federal Reserve rate cut means for you
NEW YORK, December 11, 2025 (AP) The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter point Wednesday for the third time since September, bringing its key rate to about 3.6%, the lowest in nearly three years. Before September, it had gone nine months without a cut. The benchmark rate is the rate at which banks borrow and lend to one another, and the Fed has two goals when it sets the rate: one, to manage prices for goods and services, and two, to encourage full employment. The benchmark rate also affects the interest rates consumers pay to
Stock markets snap 3-day slide; Sensex jumps 427 pts on buying in metal, auto shares
Mumbai, Dec 11 (PTI) Benchmark stock indices Sensex and Nifty rebounded on Thursday, cutting short a three-day falling streak following buying in auto and metal stocks and a rate cut by the US Federal Reserve. Rebounding from its early lows, the 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 426.86 points or 0.51 per cent, to settle at 84,818.13. During the day, it hit a high of 84,906.93 and a low of 84,150.19. The 50-share NSE Nifty appreciated by 140.55 points, or 0.55 per cent, to close at 25,898.55. Following initial volatility, the Nifty gradually moved higher and closed near the days peak of
Arunachal: 18 killed, seven others missing as truck falls into gorge earlier this week
GUWAHATI: At least 18 people died when a truck, in which they were travelling in, plunged into a deep gorge near Metengliang in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. The mishap occurred on the night of December 8 but authorities learnt about it on December 10 after an injured survivor had managed to reach a camp of the General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) and narrated the incident. After first aid, he was shifted to Assam for further treatment. A group of 22 labourers had left from Assams Tinsukia district for Chaglagam in Anjaw district on December 7 to work at a construction site. Fellow workers were alarmed when they did not reach their destination on time. Based on their complaint, the Hayuliang police in Anjaw district launched a search operation and later, they received information from the GREF camp about the lone survivor. The police said the mishap, which occurred at a place located around 12 km from Chaglagam, remained unreported for two days due to the absence of mobile connectivity in the region. A defence ministry statement said the Indian Army launched a major search and rescue operation based on information received late on December 10. Preliminary inputs from the lone survivor, who managed to reach Chipra GREF Camp, indicate that a truck carrying 22 workers from Tinsukia fell off a cliff. The accident site lies in difficult terrain with limited connectivity and had not been reported by any local agency, contractor or civil representative until the survivors arrival, the statement said. After four hours of intensive search and rope descent on Thursday (December 11) by the teams of Army, police, National Disaster Response Force and GREF, the truck was spotted around 200 metres below the road in a re-entrant, inaccessible and not visible from helicopters or the road due to dense tree cover and thick foliage. Eighteen bodies have been sighted and are being retrieved using belay ropes, the statement said. Authorities were questioning the sub-contractor to verify the antecedents and exact strength of the workers hired. Despite harsh terrain and poor visibility, the Indian Army, in coordination with civil administration and other agencies, is making all possible efforts to trace the remaining individuals and provide immediate assistance, the statement further stated.
22 feared dead in Arunachal gorge tragedy
Tragedy struck in Arunachal Pradesh as at least 22 Assam labourers are feared dead after their mini truck plunged into a deep gorge near the Indo-China border. A lone survivor, severely injured, alerted authorities after a perilous journey. Rescue operations are underway, with specialized teams and the Army working to retrieve bodies from the treacherous terrain.
21 Labourers From Assam Feared Dead After Truck Falls Into Arunachal Gorge
At least 21 people are feared dead after a vehicle carrying daily-wage labourers from Assam's Tinsukia district plunged into a gorge in Arunachal Pradesh.
Arunachal accident: 21 Assam labourers feared dead after truck falls into gorge
The daily-wage labourers reportedly hailed from Assam's Tinsukia district. The accident occurred on Monday night (December 8) on the Hayuliang-Chaglagam road near the Indo-China border. Here are more details on this.
Rupee slumps 54 paise to all-time low of 90.48 against US dollar in intra-day trade
Mumbai, Dec 11 (PTI) The rupee plunged 54 paise to an all-time low of 90.48 against the US dollar in intra-day trade on Thursday after reports surfaced that the India-US trade deal is likely by March 2026. Forex traders said the rupee fell to a new all-time low of 90.48 after Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran reportedly said the India-US trade deal is likely to be inked by March. Moreover, prevailing risk-averse market sentiment, compounded by strong US dollar demand from importers, dented investor sentiment. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 89.95 against the US dollar,
Mamata calls Shah dangerous, warns of dharna if any eligible voter is deleted from list during SIR
Krishnanagar (WB), Dec 11 (PTI) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday called Union Home Minister Amit Shah dangerous, and warned that she would sit on a dharna if even a single eligible voters name was struck off from the list during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Launching a blistering attack on Shah, the chief minister said at a rally in Krishnanagar in Nadia district, The countrys home minister is dangerous. You can see it in his eyes its terrifying. In one eye, you see Duryodhan, and in the other, Dushasan. Alleging that the
22 Feared Dead After Vehicle Carrying Labourers Rolls Down Gorge In Arunachal's Anjaw
At least 22 people are feared dead in Arunachal Pradeshs Anjaw district after a vehicle carrying daily wage laborers from Assams Tinsukia district plunged into a gorge.
Pranab Mukherjee had towering contribution: Himanta Biswa Sarma
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma honored former President Pranab Mukherjee on his birth anniversary. Sarma acknowledged Mukherjee's immense contributions to India's progress and democracy. Mukherjee served as the 13th President and held key ministerial portfolios. His political career spanned over five decades, leaving a lasting impact on the nation's discourse.
New York/Washington, Dec 11 (PTI) US President Donald Trumps policies towards India are doing real and lasting damage to the strategic trust and mutual understanding, a top US lawmaker has said, underlining that Washington must move with incredible urgency to mitigate the damage done to bilateral ties. Unless he changes course, Trump will be the American President that lost India, or more accurately, that chased India away while revitalising the Russian Empire, while breaking up the Transatlantic Alliance and menacing Latin America. That is not a legacy any President should be excited about having, Democratic Congresswoman from California Sydney Kamlager-Dove
Tetra Pak Start-up Challenge Winner 'Oji' Launches Affordable, Vitamin C- enriched Iced Tea
From idea to product in 10 months, supported by Tetra Pak and Startup India Aims to democratize mindful refreshment in India Drinkoji.com , leading retail outlets, national hypermarket chains, and neighbourhood mom-and-pop stores. It will soon be rolled out on quick-commerce platforms and in select cities across the Northeast and beyond. Oji Launches Affordable Vitamin-c enriched Iced tea Startup India , an initiative aimed at fostering innovation in India’s F&B ecosystem. Through the programme, Oji received comprehensive support in product development, mentorship, and commercialization, along with access to Tetra Pak’s Product Development Centre in Chakan for hands-on assistance in product formulation and testing. Priced at an accessible INR 10 for each 160 ML carton and curated with one of the world’s finest teas naturally sourced from Assam, the product is made for the modern generation that values authentic experiences and mindful consumption. Packaged in convenient, hygienic, ready-to-drink Tetra Pak packaging, the teas are ideal for anyone seeking everyday refreshment with a touch of wellness. Commenting on the launch, Bijit Sarma, Co-founder, Oji said, “ Oji was born in the lush valleys of Assam, the cradle of the world’s finest teas, with a simple vision: to democratize access to healthy, flavorful beverages. We wanted to take the essence of Assam’s tea heritage and present it in a form that resonates with today’s youth – affordable, refreshing, and guilt-free. Every sip of Oji carries the soul of the Northeast, where authenticity meets innovation. With the unwavering support of Tetra Pak and Startup India, we have transformed a local dream into a national offering – proudly Indian in spirit, and global in appeal. ” , Co-founder, Oji added, “ Our journey with Oji is about building a bridge between Assam’s natural wealth and the modern Indian lifestyle. We are committed to proving that a brand from the Northeast can redefine the beverage landscape nationally, by offering a product that’s authentic, functional, and genuinely good for you. Oji represents the future of Indian refreshment- proudly homegrown, sustainable, and made for everyone. We are grateful to the support we received from Tetra Pak and Startup India in bringing our vision to reality. ” “ At Tetra Pak, we are deeply committed to nurturing India’s fast-evolving beverage innovation ecosystem. Oji Iced Tea is a perfect example of how passion and purpose can come together to create something truly refreshing - rooted in local heritage, yet globally relevant. Through the Startup Challenge, we are proud to have supported Oji’s journey from concept to shelf, providing access to our global expertise, paper-based packaging, and product development capabilities. Our goal remains clear - to empower homegrown innovators who are redefining the beverage industry ,” Cassio Simoes, MD, Tetra Pak South Asia , commented. Sanjiv Singh, Joint Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Startup India said, “ India’s startup ecosystem has become one of the most dynamic in the world, with over 180,000+ recognised startups across 770+ districts (as of August 2025). Nearly 52% of them are from tier-2 and 3 cities. Home-grown startups are therefore in a unique position to combine global best practices with local insights, creating products that resonate with modern Indian consumers and push India’s reputation as a hub for food & beverage innovation. We are proud to support initiatives like Tetra Pak’s Start-Up Challenge and remain committed to fostering an ecosystem where these startups can scale, generate meaningful employment, and help India capture even greater value from its innovation landscape. ” Blending authentic tea brews with great taste and affordability, Oji represents a new era of mindful refreshment. Over the coming months, Oji plans to gradually expand its footprint beyond the Northeast, bringing its refreshing, iced teas to consumers across India through both modern and traditional retail channels. About Oji Iced Tea Oji Iced Tea is a next-generation ready-to-drink beverage brand from Ruloi Tea, founded by Bijit Sarma and Sagar Rai Deka – two entrepreneurs inspired by the tea-growing heritage of Assam and driven by the mission to make smart refreshment both delightful and accessible. Rooted in authenticity, Oji reimagines the timeless tradition of Assam tea for a new generation that seeks flavour, freshness, and conscious living. Every carton of Oji embodies the brand’s philosophy – authenticity, taste and affordability.
Assam CM, Op Sindoor heroes and Mumbai's dabbawallahs to receive SIES Awards
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, BrahMos missile architect Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, Operation Sindoor heroes, and Mumbai's dabbawallahs will be honored with the Kanchi Seer SIES National Eminence Awards. The prestigious awards, carrying a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh each, will be presented at Shanmukhananda Hall in Sion on December 13th as part of the Kanchi Mahaswami festival.
Trumps gold card program goes live, offering US visas starting at $1 million per person
WASHINGTON, December 11, 2025 (AP) President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that his long-promised gold card was officially going on sale, offering legal status and an eventual pathway to U.S. citizenship for individuals paying $1 million and corporations ponying up twice that per foreign-born employee. A website accepting applications went live as Trump revealed the start of the program while surrounded by business leaders in the White Houses Roosevelt Room. It is meant to replace EB-5 visas, which Congress created in 1990 to generate foreign investment and had been available to people who spend about $1 million on
Memorial for Assam Agitation martyrs unveiled
The Swahid Smarak Kshetra in Guwahati was inaugurated on Swahid Divas, commemorating the death anniversary of Khargeswar Talukdar, the first martyr of the Assam Agitation, who died on December 10, 1979
Judging by the point and counterpoint between the chief ministers of Assam and Meghalaya it would appear that there are no bigger issues than holding world class concerts where western singing idols decorate the stage and woo the crowd. In fact, every state of Indias North East is trying to outdo the other in terms []
Five people go missing from Brahmaputra in Guwahati
GUWAHATI: Five of a nine-member group are missing after they reportedly ventured into the Brahmaputra River off Guwahatis Kharghuli area on Wednesday afternoon. According to locals, a group of nine people had visited Bhakti Kutir, a Krishna temple near the river, where the incident occurred. Around 12:50 pm, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) received a call reporting that four to five people were missing. The caller said there were eight to nine people and four to five of them were missing. Immediately after getting the information, our team arrived with four boats to conduct a search and rescue operation, an NDRF officer told the media at the site. The officer added that three people managed to swim ashore while another was rescued by the NDRF team. Five are missing, he said, adding that a sudden shift in the water level was suspected to have caused the incident. Rescue teams recovered belongings of some of the missing persons from the riverbank. Most of those affected are from outside Assam.
Tipplers swap shots for pints as states shake up liquor laws
Tipplers in Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Meghalaya are choosing beer over hard spirits. This shift follows changes in taxation and retail expansion. Beer sales have surged significantly in these states. This trend indicates a move towards more moderate alcohol consumption and increased government revenue.
Assam CM unveils Swahid Smarak Kshetra, honours 860 martyrs
Guwahati witnessed the inauguration of the Swahid Smarak Kshetra. This memorial honors 860 martyrs of the Assam Agitation. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the site. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the movement's participants. The memorial complex includes statues, a meditation hall, and gardens. The event marks the observance of Swahid Diwas.
IAF's aerial display recreates Tangail airdrop, other key missions of 1971 war
The Indian Air Force recreated key missions from the 1971 India-Pakistan War with an aerial display. Events like the Tangail Airdrop and Meghna River Crossing were showcased. The event at Mohanbari, Assam, honored the bravery of Indian armed forces. Air veterans shared war experiences. An exhibition displayed archival photographs and the Swarnim Vijay Mashal.
Assam movement immortalised in new memorial: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the 'Shaheed Smarak Kshetra and Park' in Guwahati, commemorating the Assam Movement's martyrs. He emphasized the movement's enduring spirit in safeguarding Assam's identity, culture, and existence, highlighting government initiatives to address issues central to the struggle.
Tradition in Transition: How Indian Handicrafts Are Shaping a Modern Design Identity
By: Shri Pabitra Margherita A Moment That Captures a Movement During a recent visit to an artisan cluster in rural Assam, a simple scene revealed a profound transformation underway in Indias handicraft ecosystem. Several craftspersons were weaving dry water hyacinth, not into the traditional baskets their community had made for centuries, but into sleek office [] The post Tradition in Transition: How Indian Handicrafts Are Shaping a Modern Design Identity appeared first on Northlines .
PM Modi honours Assam Movement heroes on Swahid Diwas
Assam inaugurated a memorial for 860 martyrs of the Assam Agitation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored those who participated in the Assam Movement, recognizing their significant contribution to India's history. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also remembered the sacrifices made. The new memorial, built at a cost of Rs 178 crore, features statues and other facilities.
Assams Bodoland conditionally accepts ST status for six communities
Tai Ahom students body decides to analyse Scheduled Tribe (Valley) category for some communities eyeing ST tag
Rahul, Shah trade barbs in LS; LoP challenges HM for debate on his vote chori pressers
New Delhi, Dec 10 (PTI) Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday challenged Home Minister Amit Shah to debate with him on his three press conferences in which the Congress leader alleged vote chori by the BJP in collusion with the Election Commission. Fiery exchanges were witnessed in the Lok Sabha with Shah and Gandhi trading barbs. With Shah attacking the Congress and the Opposition while participating in a debate on election reforms, Gandhi hit back and challenged Shah to counter his arguments. I had asked a question yesterday. For the first time in Indias history,
Assam CM unveils Swahid Smarak Kshetra; honours Assam Agitation martyrs on Swahid Diwas
GUWAHATI: The Assam government honoured the 860 martyrs of the Assam Agitation, also known as the Anti-Immigrants Agitation, on the Swahid Diwas on Wednesday. The Swahid Diwas marks the death anniversary of Khargeswar Talukdar, the first victim of the six-year-long agitation (1979-85). Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated the Swahid Smarak Kshetra in Guwahati. It is an honour of a lifetime to dedicate the Swahid Smarak Kshetra in memory of our bravehearts who fought for the pride of Aai Asomi (Mother Assam), Sarma said. He further stated that with the unveiling of the Swahid Smarak Kshetra, tributes were paid to them for their supreme sacrifice. From safeguarding our culture and heritage to reclaiming our lands, every effort (of the government) is dedicated to protecting the pride of Aai Asomi and the rights of everyone in Assam, he said. Meanwhile, the chief minister said Assams demographic pattern was fast changing, stating that almost 40 per cent of its population would be those who came from Bangladesh at some point of time. Legality apart, today Assam is marginalised. Our culture is marginalised in our own land. Economy is fast shifting to those people who were never associated with our culture and history, Sarma said. He added that while the challenge continued, one brighter side was the prevailing collective spirit to face it. I am sure that our new generation will fight and keep on fighting. God will bless us and we will survive, he said. On the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled the valour of all those who were a part of the Assam Movement. The movement will always have a prime place in our history. We reiterate our commitment to fulfilling the dreams of those who participated in the Assam Movement, notably the strengthening of Assams culture and the all-round progress of the state, he posted on X. Union home minister Amit Shah wrote, On Swahid Diwas, remembering the sacrifices made by the people of Assam during the Assam Movement. They faced the odds and shaped the history of Assam, creating a peerless example of patriotism. The Assam Movement ended with the signing of the historic Assam Accord in 1985.
Who is Simu Das? Blind cricket star who impressed PM Modi, puzzled Assam CM
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was surprised by a call from Prime Minister Narendra Modi inquiring about Simu. He later learned Simu Das, a visually impaired cricketer, was the Player of the Match in India's Blind Women's T20 World Cup victory. Her extraordinary performance earned her national recognition and government support.
PM Modi Recalls Valour Of Those Involved In Assam Movement
NEW DELHI, Dec 10: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday recalled the valour of those who were part of the Assam Movement on the occasion of Swahid Diwas. Today, on Swahid Diwas, we recall the valour of all those who were a part of the Assam Movement, PM Modi said in a post on X. The Movement will always have a prime place in our history. We reiterate our commitment to fulfilling the dreams of those who participated in the [] The post PM Modi Recalls Valour Of Those Involved In Assam Movement appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Social media ban for children under 16 starts in Australia
MELBOURNE, Australia, December 10, 2025 (AP) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed a world-first social media ban for children younger than 16 that took effect Wednesday as families taking back power from tech giants but warned the implementation would be difficult. Parents reported distraught children discovering theyd been shut out of platforms as the landmark law took effect. Some young children reported fooling the platforms age estimation technology by drawing on facial hair. Parents and older siblings are also expected to help some children circumvent the restrictions. This is the day when Australian families are taking back power from
Animal rights activists flag missing stray dogs in Assam town
The complainants urged the police to investigate the case and take strict action.
PM Modi Pays Tribute To Assam Movement Martyrs; Remembers C Rajagopalachari On Birth Anniversary
PM Modi said BJP will fulfill the dreams that the Assam Movement martyrs had envisioned for the all-round development of the state.
Assam Man Killed In Goa Fire Leaves Behind 3 Kids, Family Says Was 'His First Night Shift At Club'
Three men from Assam were among the 25 killed in the Goa nightclub fire. Their bodies were brought back to their villages, where grief-stricken families performed their last rites.
Trumps speech on combating inflation turns to grievances about immigrants from filthy countries
MOUNT POCONO, Pa., December 10, 2025 (AP) On the road in Pennsylvania on Tuesday, President Donald Trump tried to emphasize his focus on combating inflation, yet the issue that has damaged his popularity couldnt quite command his full attention. The president told the crowd gathered at a casino and resort in Mount Pocono that inflation was no longer a problem and that Democrats had used the term affordability as a hoax to hurt his reputation. But his remarks weaved wildly to include grievances he first raised behind closed doors in his first term in 2018 and later denied
Post Malone sets Guwahati stage on fire
In a landmark cultural moment, Post Malone, one of the worlds most influential and genre-blurring artists, took the stage in Guwahati for his first-ever solo headline performance in the country. Produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, the live entertainment experiential division of BookMyShow and Live Nation, in collaboration with the Government of Assam, the concert []
High-speed corridor survey at advanced stage: Tynsong
By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Dec 9: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Tuesday said the survey for the high-speed corridor from Mawlyngkhung (near Shillong) in Meghalaya to Panchgram (near Silchar) in Assam has reached an advanced stage. To expedite the process, the government has directed different line departments to work in unison as there is []
Grand Swahid Smarak: Assam CM honours martyrs of anti-infiltration agitation after 45 yrs
UN agency reports rise in violence against women journalists and activists linked to online abuse
GENEVA, December 9, 2025 (AP) UN Women and partners published a study Tuesday that found more than two-thirds of women journalists, rights defenders and activists have reported violence online, with over 40% saying they have faced real-world attacks linked to digital abuse. The report entitled Tipping Point focuses on an escalation in violence targeting such women alongside the rise of social media and artificial intelligence, and draws on input from more than 6,900 human rights defenders, journalists and activists in 119 countries. The study by UN Women, the United Nations agency that promotes womens rights, gender equality and empowerment
No objection to singing Vande Mataram but Muslims cannot associate anyone with worship: Jamiat
New Delhi, Dec 9 (PTI) Amid the debate on Vande Mataram in Parliament, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind on Tuesday said it had no objection to anyone singing the national song, but the poem carries polytheistic beliefs, and Muslims cannot associate anyone else with worship. Maulana Arshad, the outfits president, said love for ones country is one thing, and worshipping it is another. He said Muslims do not need a certificate from anyone to prove their love for this nation. We have no objection to anyone reading or singing Vande Mataram. However, we want to make it clear once again that a Muslim
U.S. job openings barely budged in October, coming in just below 7.7 million
WASHINGTON, December 9, 2025 (AP) U.S. job openings barely budged in October, coming in at 7.7 million with ongoing uncertainty over the direction of the American economy. The Labor Department reported Tuesday that employers posted 7.67 million vacancies in October, close to Septembers 7.66 million. The Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS), which was delayed by the extended government shutdown, also showed that the layoffs rose and number of people quitting their jobs a sign of confidence in the labor market fell in October. Job openings have come down steadily since peaking at a record 12.1
Microsoft investing $17.5 billion in India for AI and cloud infrastructure
NEW DELHI, December 9, 2025 (AP) Microsoft on Tuesday announced its biggest-ever Asia investment, amounting to $17.5 billion, in India over the next four years to advance the countrys cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure. CEO Satya Nadella revealed this in an X post after meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Nadella said that Microsoft was committing the investments to help India build the infrastructure, skills and sovereign capabilities needed for its AI future. The announcement underscores the growing global competition among major technology companies to expand in India, which has become one of the worlds
Music icon Sonu Nigam will launch his 'Deewana Tera Tour' in Guwahati on December 14, 2025, marking his first solo concert in the city. The decision is deeply personal, honoring his bond with the late Zubeen Garg and the people of Assam. Assam's Chief Minister also expressed interest in bringing global artists like Shakira to the state.
Vote chori biggest anti-national act: Rahul slams BJP-EC collusion
New Delhi, Dec 9 (PTI) In a no-holds-barred attack, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday accused the BJP of indulging in the biggest anti-national act by committing vote chori in collusion with the Election Commission and destroying the idea of India. Participating in a discussion on election reforms in the Lower House, Gandhi posed three questions which he claimed make it clear that the BJP is directing and using the Election Commission (EC) to damage Indias democracy. Making suggestions, Gandhi called for providing machine readable voter list to all parties one month before elections, taking back
Gold slumps Rs 1,000; silver plunges Rs 4,500 ahead of Fed policy decision
New Delhi, Dec 9 (PTI) Gold prices declined by Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,31,600 per 10 grams in the national capital on Tuesday, tracking a muted demand in the local markets, according to the All India Sarafa Association. Analysts said traders stayed cautious ahead of the US Federal Reserves policy meeting announcement also weighed on the sentiment. The precious metal of 99.9 per cent purity had finished at Rs 1,32,600 per 10 grams on Monday. Gold traded lower on Tuesday but remained within a confined range as market participants remained cautious ahead of the highly anticipated FOMC policy decision, Saumil
Missing stray dogs spark concern among animal lovers in Assam
GUWAHATI: A series of complaints by animal lovers has sparked concern in North Lakhimpur after a large number of stray dogs reportedly went missing in the weeks following the Supreme Courts directive to relocate street dogs to shelters post sterilisation and vaccination. On November 19, four animal welfare volunteers Dimpi Pareek, Dipankar Saikia, Luhit Das and Ritupal Phukan lodged a complaint with the police alleging an abnormal reduction in the stray dog population across the town. They expressed fears that the canines may have been illegally captured for the dog-meat trade, calling it a serious criminal offence under animal cruelty and transportation laws. They urged police to launch an investigation and act against those involved in any such racket. In another complaint filed on December 2, animal lover Priyamjyoti Phukan said that nearly 7080 per cent of the towns stray dogs had suddenly vanished. She recalled feeding the animals during the Covid-19 pandemic, when their estimated population was around 500. We now have around 100 of them, she said, adding that two dogs under her care one amputated and another undergoing treatment were also missing. She alleged that certain groups may be poaching the dogs for quick profit. Amid rising alarm, the North Lakhimpur Municipal Board, in a letter dated November 21, asked the Officer-in-Charge of North Lakhimpur Sadar Thana to register an FIR on the matter. The civic body said vaccination of stray dogs was under way but reports from multiple locations indicated that many of the animals had disappeared. It sought a proper investigation and appropriate measures from police. Confirming the development, Nayan Moni Barman, Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime), Lakhimpur, said the matter is being probed. We received complaints about the disappearance of stray dogs. We are investigating, he told The New Indian Express .
SC Issues Notice To ECI On Plea Against Limited Electoral Roll Revision In Assam
Pointing out that Assam had been singled out despite the states long-acknowledged concerns over illegal migration, senior advocate Hansaria submitted that unlike other states where SIR is under way, electors in Assam are not required to produce any documents while filling enumeration forms under the ongoing Special Revision
SC seeks EC response on plea challenging special revision, and not SIR, in Assam
The petitioner questions why an SIR was not conducted in Assam, but is done in 12 other States and Union Territories; alleges the presence of 40 to 50 lakh illegal immigrants even in 1997.
Rupee falls 10 paise to 90.15 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Dec 9 (PTI) The rupee depreciated 10 paise to 90.15 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday, as dollar demand from corporates, importers and foreign portfolio investors dented investors sentiments. Forex traders said investors are in a wait and watch mode and market participants are waiting for clarity from the US FED before taking decisive positions. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 90.15 against the US dollar, down 10 paise from its previous close. On Monday, the rupee settled at 90.05 against the US dollar. Market is focussed on the stance the US Federal
Magnitude 7.5 quake in northern Japan injures 23 people and triggers a 2-foot tsunami
TOKYO, December 9, 2025 (AP) A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck off northern Japan late Monday, injuring 23 people and triggering a tsunami in Pacific coast communities, officials said. Authorities warned of possible aftershocks and an increased risk of a megaquake. The Japanese government was still assessing damages from the tsunami and late-evening quake, which struck at about 11:15 p.m. in the Pacific Ocean, around 80 kilometers (50 miles) off the coast of Aomori, the northernmost prefecture of Japans main Honshu island. Ive never experienced such a big shaking, convenience store owner Nobuo Yamada told the public broadcaster NHK
Weather update today: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Chandigarh and Delhi might experience cold wave conditions from December 9, the IMD said in its latest bulletin. The weather agency has also warned of cold wave conditions in several districts of Telangana. Dense fog is likely to prevail in Assam, Manipur and Odisha.
Tura-o Ex-Servicemen Rally-ko ongatenga
TURA: HQ 101 Area, Assam Regiment Centre aro Sainik Welfare Directorate, Tikrikilla, Garobadha, Tura aro Ampati-ni Ex-Servicemen Association-rangni dakchakanichi, Sombar saloni abachenge salgnina Ex-Servicemen Rally-ko Tura Dakkopgre-o donggipa SMELC-o ongatenga. Ia Ex-Servicemen Rally-ko abachengatanio, General Administration Department-ni Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, mongsonggipa sokgipa onge bak raangaha aro unbaksana GOC 101 Area-ni SM, Lt Gen Mohit Wadhwa-ba []
Guwahati will rival Shillong as NE concert hub: Himanta
By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Dec 8: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday declared that Guwahati is poised to emerge as a major global concert destination, rivaling Shillong, thanks to the surging popularity of international acts like Post Malones headline show. Speaking to reporters amid the buzz surrounding the Grammy-nominated artists first solo India []
No Jobs In Assam, They Went To Goa To Find Work: Families Of Fire Victims
Families of the three men from Assam who died in the Goa nightclub fire on Monday said their children were forced to migrate to the western state due to the lack of livelihood opportunities in their area.
Tiwa students blocked National Highway-27 demanding proper implementation of the Tiwa Autonomous Council and land rights, leading to clashes with police. This protest is part of ongoing demonstrations across Assam against the proposed inclusion of six communities in the Scheduled Tribe list, which protestors fear will dilute existing rights.
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy | Rahanesblitzkrieg powers Mumbai to a crushing win
Defending champion tops Group-A standings, sails into the Super League; skipperShardulsets the tone with two maiden overs as Odisha batters falter; Assam edges out Kerala
Assam Distributes Scooters To 11,250 Meritorious Students Ahead Of Polls
The Himanta Biswa Sarma-led Assam government distributed scooters to 11,250 meritorious students on Monday under the Dr Bani Kanta Kakati Merit Award Scheme at the Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati.
Himanta Biswa Sarma says keen on getting Shakira to perform in Assam
This year a memorandum of understanding was signed between Assam Tourism Development Corporation Limited and BigTree Entertainment Private Limited to facilitate the organisation of international concerts in the state.
Tata signs up Intel as first major customer for $14 billion chip foray
Tata Electronics has secured Intel as its first prospective customer for its new semiconductor fabrication and assembly facilities in Gujarat and Assam. This partnership signals Intel's confidence in India's manufacturing capabilities as Prime Minister Modi aims to position the country as a global chip producer. The companies will also explore scaling AI PC solutions for India's growing market.
Trump says Zelenskyy hasnt read a US-authored proposal to end Russia-Ukraine war
KYIV, Ukraine, December 8, 2025 (AP) President Donald Trump on Sunday claimed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hasnt read a U.S-authored peace proposal aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump was critical of Zelenskyy after U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators completed three days of talks on Saturday aimed at trying to narrow differences on the U.S. administrations proposal. But in an exchange with reporters on Sunday night, Trump suggested that the Ukrainian leader is holding up the talks from moving forward. Im a little bit disappointed that President Zelenskyy hasnt yet read the proposal, that was as of a few hours
SSC GD Constable recruitment 2026: State-wise breakup released for 25,487 posts; check details here
The Staff Selection Commission has announced 25,487 vacancies for Constable (GD) recruitment in CAPFs, SSF, and Assam Rifles for the 2026 cycle. Applications are open from December 1 to December 31, 2025, with the exam tentatively scheduled for February-April 2026. Candidates must be 10th pass with an age limit of 18-23 years.
Gold falls to Rs 1,32,600/10g amid subdued demand in Delhi markets
New Delhi, Dec 8 (PTI) Gold prices fell by Rs 300 to Rs 1,32,600 per 10 grams in the national capital on Monday due to subdued demand in the local markets, according to the All India Sarafa Association. The precious metal of 99.9 per cent purity had closed at Rs 1,32,900 per 10 grams on Friday. However, silver prices jumped by Rs 1,500 to Rs 1,85,000 per kilogram (inclusive of all taxes), marking their second consecutive day of gains. It had settled at Rs 1,83,500 per kg in the previous market session. Globally, spot gold rose by 0.18 per cent
Manipur Meitei BJP MLA breaks ice, visits Kuki villages
GUWAHATI: A Manipur MLA and former minister from the majority Meitei community mustered the courage and showed the inclination to break the ice by visiting two Kuki-Zo villages on Monday. Yumnam Khemchand Singh, who is also a former Speaker of the Manipur Assembly, visited the Kuki villages, Litan and Chassad, and interacted with the villagers. Litan falls under Ukhrul while Chassad lies in Kamjong, both Naga-majority districts. This is the first time since the bloody ethnic violence engulfed the state in May 2023 that a leader has started people-to-people contact. The visit is being seen as a confidence-building measure in a state that has remained internally partitioned. Traveling to Litan, the BJP leader interacted with Kuki villagers and inquired about their life and hardship faced in the past two and half years. Singh visited a Kuki relief camp at Litan Sareikhong Baptist Church and interacted with Kuki inmates who fled their homes during the violence. With the coming of Christmas, we all should pray for the return of peace in the state, the sportsman-turned-politician and founder of Assam Taekwondo Association said. He consoled the villagers and told them that the return of peace should be the primary target of all communities. He said conflict exists in every part of the world, but it should not be allowed to hinder a regions progress and development. There are conflicts among different countries and communities but we should learn to live in harmony despite differences. There should not be any hindrance in visiting each others villages, Singh said. We should not allow this conflict affect the future of our children. We, the elders, may have differences, but we should think about our children's future, he added. State BJP vice president and Naga leader Hopingson Shimray, who accompanied Singh, said it was a remarkable gesture by the MLA to travel to Kuki villages when everyone today is reluctant to venture into another communitys area. He said Singh is the first BJP Meitei legislator to step into a Kuki relief camp. The ethnic violence had left more than 260 people dead and an estimated 60,000 others internally displaced. A large majority of them are still lodged in relief camps.
Free health camp provides medical support to Balikuchi community members
Guwahati, Dec 8: A free medical camp focusing on diabetes, blood pressure as well as eye examinations was organised on December 7 at Balikuchi Primary School in Balikuchi in Darrang district of Assam to raise community awareness on common life-style diseases and provide care to the camp participants. The camp was organised by the []
Assam Makes State History, Geography Mandatory in School Syllabus
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, This decision was taken based on the recommendations of the high-level committee headed by retired Justice Biplab Kumar Sharma
Family Of Assamese Man, Who Died In Goa Club Fire, Seeks Help To Bring Back Body
Diganta Patir used to work as a cook at the Goa club. He was among the 25 victims of the tragedy - of which at least five were tourists.
Whats the difference between a tumour and cancer?
Kensington, Dec 8 (The Conversation) The terms tumour and cancer can refer to different types of lumps and bumps. But the terms are often confused and misused by the general public and even health professionals. For instance, doctors can use euphemisms such as tumour, mass, lesion or spot when they really mean cancer. So whats the difference between a tumour and cancer? And why is it important to use the right terms? Whats a tumour? The Oxford dictionary defines a tumour as any abnormal swelling in or on a part of the body. They develop in nearly any part,
Three Assam men among Goa nightclub fire victims; families blame lack of jobs back home
Guwahati: Three persons from Assam were among the 25 people who had died in the Goa nightclub fire on Saturday, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. The three victims Assam Rahul Tanti, Manojit Mal (both from Cachar district) and Diganta Patir (from Dhemaji district) were working as staff members. Deeply anguished by the tragic loss of lives in the Arpora fire incident in Goa, where three of our own lost their precious lives. Offering my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Praying for the swift recovery of all those injured, Sarma posted on X. Patirs mother told the media he went to Goa last year. He would always call me to enquire about our well-being, said the woman who stays at home along with her daughter. Patir's mother also claimed that both her sons were working in far-off states like Goa and Kerala, as there was no source of livelihood in Dhemaji, which is a flood and erosion-hit district of Assam. Patir's elder brother, who works in Kerala, has already left for Goa to collect the body. Neighbours appealed to the Assam government to bring the mortal remains to the state. The family is not in a position to bring the body. We are relying on the government. It has a scheme. We appeal to CM Sarma to bring the body, a neighbour said. The state government in October this year launched the Shraddhanjali scheme to provide complete assistance for dignified transportation of the mortal remains of people from Assam who lose their lives, anywhere outside the state. The scheme, approved by the state cabinet on June 22, will be implemented by the Special Branch of the Assam Police. Families or individuals seeking assistance can report such death cases through designated helpline numbers. Government of Assam, upon receiving a report of death and on verification, will ensure all logistical and other formalities to bring back the deceased to Assam for the final rites, Sarma had stated. The humanitarian initiative, which will cover the full cost of repatriating the mortal remains, aims to ease the financial and logistical burden on bereaved families. Deeply anguished by the tragic loss of lives in the Arpora fire incident in Goa, where three of our own, lost their precious lives. Shri Rahul Tanti, Cachar Shri Manojit Mal, Cachar Shri Diganta Patir, Dhemaji Offering my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) December 7, 2025 The bodies of Manojit Mal (24) and Rahul Tanti (60), both working in the nightclub kitchen, have been handed over to relatives who were also working in Goa. Mal and Tanti's family members have alleged that their children were forced to leave the village and the state, due to lack of livelihood opportunities back home. Both Mal and Tanti belong to the tea tribe community, and the villagers claimed that the condition of the tea gardens in Barak Valley was in a pathetic state, and so their children had to go to far-off places to earn a living. (With inputs from PTI)
The Assam cabinet, led by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, has approved making history and geography compulsory for classes 6, 7, and 8, following the Justice (retd) Biplab Kumar Sharma committee recommendations, as quoted by the TNN. Each subject will carry 50 marks. Alongside curriculum changes, the cabinet approved a Rs 243 crore Dassault Systems project at Assam Engineering College and a Rs 335 crore second sainik school in Karbi Anglong, as reported by the TNN.
Guwahati Diary | Kelvin Cinema returns in contemporary avatar
One of Assams most storied cinema halls has begun a new chapter. Kelvin Cinema, founded in 1935 by Jeevanram Goenka in the bustling lanes of Fancy Bazar in Guwahati, is returning in a contemporary avatar. Kelvin Gold Cinema has unveiled a new two-screen multiplex within the original Kelvin compound, offering a seating capacity of 499, including 24 ultra-luxurious recliners. The modern space features a sleek design and auditoriums fitted with the latest cinematic technology. Its inauguration took place last Wednesday. The Goenka family has played a key role in shaping Assams business and cultural landscape. Empowering youth with disabilities Shishu Sarothi, an NGO dedicated to empowering children and persons with disabilities, has joined hands with Assam Skill University and Gateway Institute of Hotel Management, with the signing of an MoU. The collaboration marks the beginning of a dedicated hospitality skill development programme. The partnership is designed to open up structured, high-quality training avenues that align with current industry demands in the hospitality sector. By combining academic excellence, practical skill training, and support, the three institutions aim to create sustainable career pathways and improve employment prospects for youth with disabilities. Army summits mountain peak, scripts history The Indian Army made history by summiting Mount Kangto (7,042 m/ 23,103 ft) in Arunachal Pradesh. This marks the first recorded successful ascent of Kangto, long regarded as an unclimbed guardian of the Kameng Himalayas. The 18-member team undertook a grueling expedition across rugged terrain. Braving extremely rarefied air, harsh sub-zero conditions, treacherous icy ridgelines, deep crevasses, and near-vertical ice walls, the climbers showcased the hallmark attributes of the Indian Armyunmatched grit and discipline. The ascent reflects the Indian Armys commitment to pushing the boundaries, a defence ministry statement said. Prasanta Mazumdar Our correspondent in Guwahati prasantamazumdar@newindianexpress.com
Rajasthan dominates 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Cship
Excelsior Sports Correspondent KATRA, Dec 7: The 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Championship 2025 concluded at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sports Complex, Katra, after three days of spirited competition and exemplary sportsmanship. The championship, organised by J&K Lacrosse Association under the aegis of the Lacrosse Association of India, witnessed participation from 15 States including Gujarat, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Delhi, and J&K. Around 280 male and female players showcased talent, [] The post Rajasthan dominates 2nd Federation Cup Lacrosse Cship appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Assam govt to hand over 992 acres to AAI for Silchar greenfield airport
The cabinet approved the transfer of 3,000 bighas at Doloo Tea Estate in Silchar to the AAI for the construction of a greenfield airport, says Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
Panic grips Assam migrant workers facing eviction in U.P.
On December 4, a team from the Lucknow Municipal Corporation led by mayor Sushma Kharkwal arrived to check documents, aiming to identifyBangladeshis and Rohingya people living in the area illegally
Assam Cabinet makes Assams History, Geography compulsory for Classes 68
The Assam Cabinet has approved significant decisions. History and Geography will be compulsory subjects for Classes VI to VIII. Land has been approved for a new airport in Silchar. A logistics policy aims to make Assam a hub. A joint project with Dassault Systems will offer specialized courses. Compensation for land acquisition and a new Sainik School are also approved.
BVFCL Namrup unit catches fire, triggers panic in upper Assam
A fire broke out at a Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation (BVFCL) unit in Namrup, Assam, causing panic just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to lay the foundation for a new fertilizer project. No human casualties were reported, but damage assessment is ongoing. The incident raises safety concerns as the fire occurred near the Prime Minister's event site.
Major Fire At Assam Fertilizer Plant Days Before PM Modi's Visit
A major fire erupted at the ammonia plant of Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited in Namrup on Sunday evening, casting shadow over the facility just two weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's expected visit to the area.
Severe cold grips north India; IMD warns of cold wave, fog across multiple states
NEW DELHI: Cold conditions prevailed across north India on Sunday, with the Amarnath yatra base camp being the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir at minus 4.3 degrees Celsius and parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan reporting minimum temperatures between three and seven degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said cold wave conditions were very likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha in Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha on Monday and Tuesday. In Delhi, the minimum temperature was recorded at eight degrees, up from 6.8 degrees a day ago and yet 1.6 notches below normal. The maximum temperature was 24.7 degrees Celsius, 0.1 notch below normal, while the relative humidity was 92 per cent in the morning. For Monday, the weather department forecast a minimum of 10 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius, with mist expected. Pollution levels in Delhi remained in the very poor category on Sunday, prolonging the spell of toxic air that has hung over its residents for several weeks now. The city logged a 24-hour average AQI of 308. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is classified good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor and 401 and 500 severe. Further in the north, the night temperatures in Kashmir rose by several degrees but stayed below the freezing point, officials said. The Pahalgam resort in south Kashmir, which serves as the base camp for the annual Amarnath yatra, was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir as the minimum settled at a low of minus 4.3 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- settled at minus 0.9 degrees Celsius, a rise of 3.2 degrees compared to the previous night. The gateway town to the valley, Qazigund, recorded a low of minus one degree Celsius, while the minimum settled at minus 0.8 degree Celsius in north Kashmir's Kupwara, and 1.1 degrees Celsius in south Kashmir's Kokernag, according to officials. The meteorological department said the weather would remain generally cloudy but dry on Sunday, and a brief spell of light snowfall at isolated places in the higher reaches of north and central Kashmir is likely on December 8. In Himachal Pradesh, The IMD predicted dense fog in parts of the state until Wednesday. A yellow alert for dense fog was also issued in parts of the reservoir area of the Bhakra dam in Bilaspur district and over some parts of the Balh valley in Mandi district during early morning till Monday. In Punjab, Faridkot remained the coldest place, with the minimum temperature settling at 4.4 degrees Celsius, while in Haryana, Narnaul saw the lowest temperature at 4.6 degrees Celsius, according to the local meteorological department. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a minimum temperature of 8.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda and Gurdaspur recorded a minimum temperature of 4.6 degrees Celsius, while Ferozepur recorded 6 degrees, Amritsar 6.1 degrees, Ludhiana 6.8 degrees, and Patiala 8.9 degrees. In Haryana, Bhiwani recorded a low of six degrees, Hisar 6.2 degrees, Sirsa 6.6 degrees, Karnal seven degrees, Rohtak 7.8 degrees, and Ambala 9.8 degrees. Rajasthan, similarly, reeled under intense cold, the Meteorological Centre here said. Fatehpur in the Sikar district continued to record the lowest minimum temperature, albeit at 3.5 degrees Celsius, slightly up from 2.3 degrees a day ago. According to the weather department, Lunkaransar (Bikaner) recorded a low of 5 degrees Celsius, followed by Dausa at 6 degrees, Churu at 6.3 degrees, Vanasthali (Tonk) at 6.4 degrees and Jhunjhunu at 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday morning. The department said a fresh but weak western disturbance is likely to cause partly cloudy skies in some parts of the state over the next few days. Under its influence, the minimum temperature is expected to rise by two to three degrees Celsius, providing relief from the cold wave, it said. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, eight districts recorded minimum temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, noting a cold wave in parts of the state. Gumla recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 3.5 degrees Celsius up from three degrees Celsius while Khunti logged five degrees Celsius, the IMD weather bulletin stated. The minimum temperature in Jharkhand's capital, Ranchi, was 7.5 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 6.5 degrees and Jamshedpur recorded 9.6 degrees Celsius. Deputy Director of the Ranchi Meteorological Centre, Abhishek Anand, said, North-westerly winds prevailing in the lower tropospheric levels over Jharkhand have caused the drop in mercury. Dry weather conditions are likely to prevail across the state over the next five days.The minimum temperature may rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next 72 hours, he added. In West Bengal, the mercury dipped below the 10-degree mark for the first time this winter in the state's plains with Sriniketan in Birbhum districts recording a minimum temperature of 9.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, the IMD said. Its forecast for West Bengal suggested dry weather across all districts of West Bengal for the next week, with shallow to moderate fog likely in the northern districts. Darjeeling was the coldest in the hills at 6.2 degrees Celsius, while the other Himalayan tourist town of Kalimpong was warmer at 10.5 degrees Celsius. The other places which recorded low night temperatures are Alipurduar (11 degrees), Kalyani (11.4 degrees), Purulia (11.4 degrees) and Panagarh (11.9 degrees). Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 15.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said, forecasting mist in the morning on Monday. IMD further predicted dense fog conditions in isolated pockets of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between December 8 and 12. It was also very likely in parts of west Madhya Pradesh on Monday and in Odisha until Tuesday. In west India, a gradual fall by two to three degrees over the next three-four days is expected, and no significant change is anticipated thereafter, the IMD said.
Suspended Trinamool MLA Humayun Kabir to float new party in alliance with AIMIM
KOLKATA: Suspended Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir, on Sunday said that his proposed new political platform would make an electoral alliance with the Hyderabad-based All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) of Asaduddin Owaisi. Kabir has also invited the CPI-M, Congress and West Bengal-based Indian Secular Front (ISF) of Nawsad Siddiqui to join the alliance to fight against both BJP at the Centre and ruling Trinamool Congress in the state. A day after laying the foundation stone of a mosque modelled after the Babri Masjid of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh at Beldanga in Murshidabad on Saturday, Kabir told media, I wont resign as a legislator now. I will announce the name of my new party 22 December and a state conference of the new platform will also be held in Behrampore, Murshidabad. My party will ally with the Asaduddin Owaisis All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) and I have already discussed the issue with Owaisi saheb. He has asked me to come to Hyderabad for further talks. Alliance with the AIMIM is confirmed. I also welcome ISF and CPI-M and Congress also so that we can rout the BJP at the Centre and Bengal chief minister who is influenced by RSS together. Rubbishing Kabirs proposal for an electoral understanding with the Left, the CPI-M leadership said there is no question of making any alliance with those whose agenda is only mandir and masjid, not development issues. TMC suspends Humayun Kabir for plan to build 'Babri Masjid' in Murshidabad; MLA to form new party Traditionally, minorities in Bengal have aligned themselves with mainstream parties, unlike states such as Telangana and Assam, where minority-based parties AIMIM and Badruddin Ajmals All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) have emerged. Though such attempts were made by Mamata Banerjee's current cabinet colleague Siddiqullah Chowdhury, through his outfit Jamait Ulama E-Hind, these weren't not successful. Very recently, Nawsad Siddique's ISF tried to craft its space among minorities, but had to join hands with the Congress and the CPM for the lone seat it won in 2021. Suspended from Trinamool Congress on Friday on charge of making communal statements violating the party rules Kabir a Congress and BJP turncoat immediately made the announcement of floating a new political party catering to Muslims. People of Murshidabad had voted Kabir to win assembly polls in 2021 because they trust Mamata Banerjee for her good governance not him. Our party has suspended him and now its his lookout to take decision on what he will do in coming days, said Sashi Panja, Bengal industry minister. To counter the massive Bhagavad Geetha recital at Brigade Parade ground he also announce to organise a Koran recital programme during February next year where one lakh people will gather.
Assam launches intensive drive to make 30 high-risk districts child-marriage free within a year
Assam has launched an accelerated plan to end child marriage in 30 high-risk districts within a year, aligning with Indias goal of becoming child-marriage free by 2030. The initiative is part of the national Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign and the wider Just Rights for Children (JRC) effort to make one lakh villages child-marriage free.
Congress launches outreach programme to draw roadmap for inclusive greater Assam
TEZPUR: Agitators at Tezpur University on Sunday vowed to enforce a shutdown at the institution, which has been witnessing sustained protests since mid-September against alleged irregularities by Vice Chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh, till a formal communication from the Centre regarding the VC's removal is received. The picturesque campus on the north bank of the Brahmaputra in Sonitpur district of Assam witnessed high voltage drama from Saturday afternoon till early on Sunday as a top delegation from the Union Ministry of Education, led by Secretary Vineet Joshi, could not leave the premises around midnight and was stuck inside their vehicles for more than three hours. The high-level team was allowed to leave post midnight following a written assurance on a blank paper by the Department of Higher Education's Joint Secretary Saumya Gupta, who was a part of the delegation. The hand-written assurance, accessed by PTI, said that VC Singh will not administer the central varsity till a strict and time-bound inquiry against him is completed. Students, teachers and non-teaching staffers, under the aegis of a joint platform Tezpur University United Forum (TUUF), have been protesting against the beleaguered VC since mid-September over alleged corruption and other irregularities committed by him, and demanded his removal along with an inquiry against his actions. The TUUF expressed disappointment that even after 79 consecutive days of peaceful protests, no concrete resolution or actionable assurance had been provided to remove the VC. The students, faculty and non-teaching staffers are going for a complete non-compliance and non-cooperation until a concrete agreement is officially received. After 79 days of sustained agitation, the fraternity remains resolute, awaiting the MoE's formal confirmation, TUUF said in a statement. It acknowledged receiving the informal written communication from the MoE team, indicating that an inquiry will be initiated into the allegations concerning the VC. Students view this as a preliminary step, but emphasise that the protest will continue until an official, formal notification is issued and concrete action follows, TUUF said. The students of this central university have enforced a complete shutdown of all activities, including those related to academics, on the campus since November 29 for an indefinite period, forcing the administration to cancel all end-term examinations. The MoE's hand-written assurance, which facilitated their exit from the campus early on Sunday, highlighted that it had a joint meeting with the agitators and there were multiple issues with the governance style of the VC. Allegations were heard and discussed. The deptt of educn (sic) is committed to initiate a strict and time bound inquiry against him and during the pendancy (sic) of the same he will not be administering the university, Gupta wrote in her assurance, given on behalf of the Ministry of Education (MoE). She also said in the assurance note that till further decision is taken, status quo be maintained. The three-member team, comprising UGC's acting Chairman Joshi, Gupta and another Joint Secretary Armstrong Pame, along with top police and civil administration officials of Sonitpur district, reached the TU campus on Saturday afternoon to meet the agitators, but were blocked at the main gate by the agitators. The Registrar in-charge of the university, Chandan Goswami, told PTI that the central team could exit the premises, after a written assurance was provided to the agitators. He also said that Mass Communication Professor Joya Chakraborty, whom Singh had named pro-VC on Thursday, will not be assuming charge. Dhruba Kumar Bhattacharyya, the senior-most faculty member, will be the acting VC. Police reinforcements were deployed at the gate since Saturday evening as the protesters raised slogans against the vice-chancellor and sought azadi from him and his misrule. To prevent the police contingent from entering the campus in order to rescue the visiting team, hundreds of agitating women sat on the road blocking the main entrance gate. The police visibly did not have any women contingent. Speaking to reporters on the campus, Joshi said, We came here to meet the students, teachers, staff members and understand their view of the recent developments. We had a fruitful discussion with them. They have given us their feedback. He said the ministry is processing all information and appropriate action will be taken, noting that two fact-finding inquiries had already been conducted. Based on these, the central government will take the matter forward. Whatever decision we take, I am sure it will be in the interest of the university, Joshi said. All end-term examinations have been cancelled, and the Tezpur University Teachers' Association (TUTA) and Tezpur University Non-Teaching Employees' Association (TUNTEA) have extended their full support to the agitation. The VC abstained from coming to the campus after the university had witnessed heated scenes and an exchange of words between him and students on September 22, leading to a situation where Singh had to nearly flee from the spot. The situation in Tezpur University had been tense since mid-September with students accusing the VC and varsity authorities of not showing due respect to cultural icon Zubeen Garg even as the state was mourning his death.
Assam to establish new land customs station at Samrang on Indo-Bhutan border
Guwahati: A new Land Customs Station (LCS) is being established at Samrang along the Indo-Bhutan border in Assams Udalguri district. Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota and Bhutans Consul General in Guwahati, Jigme Thinlye Namgyal, met on Sunday to discuss the operationalisation of the LCS. The officials focused on interim arrangements to enable the stations functioning. [] The post Assam to establish new land customs station at Samrang on Indo-Bhutan border appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam Umrah pilgrims stranded in Hyderabad after IndiGo cancels flight
Hyderabad: Twenty-eight Umrah pilgrims from Assam have been left stranded in Hyderabad after their IndiGo connecting flight to Guwahati was cancelled on Friday, December 5, adding to the widespread operational turmoil currently affecting the airline across India. The passengers, most of them elderly, arrived from Jeddah on IndiGo flight 6E 68 and were scheduled to 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 .
