Assam News

Impossible translations: why we struggle to translate words when we dont experience the concept

Sydney, Dec 5 (The Conversation) If you are fluent in any language other than English, you have probably noticed that some things are impossible to translate exactly. A Japanese designer marvelling at an objects shibui (a sort of simple yet timelessly elegant beauty) may feel stymied by Englishs lack of a precisely equivalent term. Danish hygge refers to such a unique flavour of coziness that entire books seem to have been needed to explain it. Portuguese speakers may struggle to convey their saudade, a mixture of yearning, wistfulness and melancholy. Speakers of Welsh will have an even harder time translating

How sleep timing affects your heart health and blood pressure?

A consistent bedtime may play a meaningful role in lowering blood pressure, according to new research examining how sleep timing affects heart health. While most people think primarily about getting enough hours of sleep, experts say when you sleep also has an important effect on heart health. Sleep duration and sleep timing work together, and that consistency is a key part of supporting cardiovascular wellness. Recent findings have supported that connection. In a study published in the journal Sleep Advances, adults with high blood pressure who kept a consistent bedtime for two weeks saw modest but meaningful improvements in their

RBI cuts repo rate by 25 basis points, boosts liquidity

MUMBAI, Dec 5 (Reuters) The RBI (Reserve Bank of India) cut its key repo rate by 25 basis points on Friday, in line with a consensus view, as record low retail inflation and a benign outlook for prices provided ample room to further support economic growth. The RBI also decided to conduct open market operations of 1 trillion rupees ($11.14 billion) and $5 billion in forex swaps to add liquidity and speed up transmission of lower rates. The six-member monetary policy committee voted unanimously to lower the repo rate to 5.25% and has now cut rates by a total

Stock markets turn volatile in early trade ahead of RBIs monetary policy decision

Mumbai, Dec 5 (PTI) Stock market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty faced highly volatile trends in early trade on Friday ahead of the RBIs monetary policy decision due later in the day. Investors also remained on the sidelines amid relentless foreign fund outflows and mixed global trends. The 30-share BSE Sensex advanced 53.54 points to 85,318.86 in early trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty went up by 28.2 points to 26,061.95. Both the benchmarks were later trading between highs and lows, reflecting volatile trends. From the Sensex firms, Eternal, Maruti, Power Grid, Infosys, Bharat Electronics and Bajaj Finance were among the

Assam To Reintroduce 12 Critically Endangered Slender-Billed, White-Rumped Vultures Into The Wild

India began captive-breeding vultures after their numbers plummeted due to the widespread use of the cattle drug diclofenac, which had pushed the species to the brink of extinction

Assam's ST status plan for 6 groups to be taken up 'positively'

Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal has indicated a positive consideration for granting Scheduled Tribe status to six communities in Assam. This comes as protests erupt across the state. The proposal, based on a Group of Ministers' report, cites socio-economic backwardness. Students have voiced concerns about potential dilution of their rights.

BNHS to release sixcritically endangeredvultures in Assam after 15-yearconservation effort

Three Slender-billed and three White-rumped vultures, bred in captivity, will undergo a soft release inKamrupand Biswanath districtsof Assamin January 2026.

Assam govt prohibits 'all forms of radical literature associated with banned extremist organisations'

Assam has banned all radical literature from banned extremist groups. This includes print and digital content from organizations like JMB and ABT. The government aims to protect youth from extremist propaganda and safeguard internal security. Law enforcement agencies will strictly enforce this order. Investigations revealed continued circulation of such materials.

PM Modi, Amit Shah to visit Assam soon amid poll prep

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Assam on December 20, inaugurating a new airport terminal and laying the foundation for a urea complex, signaling a new wave of development. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will also visit soon to finalize election preparations for the upcoming assembly polls.

Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav launches 20-strong fleet of Shikaras in Bhopals Upper Lake

BHOPAL:Tourists craving to relish rides on the Shikara boats, but finding the iconic Dal Lake in Kashmir or backwaters of Kerala too far, now have the option to enjoy the same ride in the heart of India Madhya Pradesh. With a 20-strong fleet of Shikaras, the Shikara Boat service was launched in the Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopals Upper Lake on Thursday. The 20 Shikaras, which were launched by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, are equipped with food and comfortable seating arrangements for visitors, and are expected to give Madhya Pradeshs water tourism a new identity at the national and international level. While urging tourists from across the country and residents of Bhopal and the state to enjoy the Shikara Boat service, the CM said that the Madhya Pradesh Tourism is expanding water-sports activities and that tourists will also be able to purchase indigenous products while enjoying the shikara rides. The CM and other dignitaries enjoyed tea, poha, samosas andfruits from the shikara boat restaurant. The CM also purchased traditional Bag & Batik textiles and organic products from the floating boat market. This is for the first time in Madhya Pradesh that Shikaras are being operated on such a large scale. All the 20 Shikaras which were launched on Thursday, have been built using pollution-free, modern technology. They are built from fibre-reinforced polyurethane and high-quality non-reactive materials that do not cause any chemical reaction with water, ensuring the complete safety of the lakes ecology and water purity. This is for the first time in Madhya Pradesh that Shikaras are being operated on such a large scale. These shikaras have been crafted by an internationally renowned organisation whose boats are already popular with tourists in Kerala, Bengal, and Assam. With their addition, Bhopals Boat Club is now ready to welcome visitors with these attractive new vessels. Along with boating, tourists will be able to enjoy bird-watching and purchase handicrafts, local dishes, organic vegetables and fruits during the ride. Each Shikara Boat can accommodate four to six passengers. Each Shikara ride will be 20 minutes long. While four passengers will have to pay Rs 300 for the 20-minute ride, six passengers will have to pay Rs 450 for the same ride. The service will be operational from 9 am till sunset. Importantly, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had reportedlybanned all motorized boats, including diesel and petrol-powered ones, in Bhopal's Upper Lake in September 2023 to protect the wetland. The order had come in response to a petition highlighting the environmental damage caused by these activities, which includes emissions from the boats. The ban applies to cruise boats and other motor-propelled vessels operating on the Upper Lake and other designated wetlands in the state. Later, in March 2024, the Supreme Court dismissed an appeal by the MP Tourism Development Corporation, which challenged the NGT order.

Supreme Court to review clause in 2025 Order that contradicts Assam Accord

Bench led by CJI seeks Centres response on plea challenging provision allowing undocumented migrants to stay in Assam

Amid ST status row, Assam minister Ranoj Pegu meets tribal leaders

GUWAHATI: Assams Tribal Affairs (Plains) Minister Ranoj Pegu on Thursday met the leaders of the Coordination Committee of Tribal Organisations, Assam (CCTOA), amid concerns that the state governments decision on granting Scheduled Tribes (ST) status to six communities will affect the interests of existing tribals . Pegu, who laid the report of the three-member Group of Ministers (GoM) in the Assembly recently, took to X, stating that he had explained the GoMs recommendations to the CCTOA leaders. As per the Assam Cabinets decision of 30 November 2025, I met today at Janata Bhawan with the Coordination Committee of Tribal Organisations, Assam (CCTOA) to discuss the Group of Ministers report on granting ST status to six communities. I explained the recommendations given by the GoM and the measures proposed to safeguard the rights of existing Scheduled Tribes, he wrote. He further stated that he had requested CCTOA to read Chapters 5 and 6 of the report together. CCTOA informed that based on our clarifications, they will form an expert committee and submit their report within a month, Pegu said. An interim report of the GoM had recommended a three-tier classification of STs ST (Plains), ST (Hills) and ST (Valley). As per the Assam Cabinets decision of 30 November 2025, I met today at Janata Bhawan with the Coordination Committee of Tribal Organisations, Assam (CCTOA) to discuss the pic.twitter.com/m5JYLWgsRq Ranoj Pegu (@ranojpeguassam) December 4, 2025 While the ST (Plains) and the ST (Hills) continue to cover the existing tribal communities residing in the plains and the hills, the ST (Valley) will cover six communities such as Ahom, Chutia, Moran, Matak, Koch-Rajbongshi and Tea Tribes (Adivasis). These communities fought for many years demanding ST status. However, the existing tribals stand opposed to it. All Bodo Students Union president Dipen Boro said Assams existing 45 lakh tribals would be lost if two crore advanced people were imposed on us. We reject the GoM report, he said. Tribal leader Aditya Khaklari said, You cannot differentiate the tribals. The government decision will affect the existing tribals. The GoM report, however, said, This arrangement will be in tune with the resolution of the Assam Assembly that the six communities be recognised as STs without affecting the rights and privileges of the present tribal communities. ST (Valley) will be the Scheduled Tribe for all purposes except that it will not affect the rights and privileges enjoyed by the present tribal communities.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma hails Project Cheetahs success

The Assam CM also lauded the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of International Cheetah Day. In a post on social media platform X, Sarma wrote, Three years of Project Cheetah, championed by Adarniya Shri Narendra Modi, are showing remarkable results

Bangladesh tribunal issues arrest warrant against ex-premier Hasinas son

DHAKA, Bangladesh, December 4, 2025 (AP) A special tribunal in Bangladeshs capital on Thursday issued an arrest warrant against Sajeeb Wazed, the son of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, over alleged crimes against humanity during last years mass uprising that ended his mothers 15-year rule. Wazed, who lives in the United States, was an adviser to Hasina. He is accused of shutting down internet access in much of Bangladesh during the protests and causing mass killings of protesters. A three-member panel of judges headed by Mohammed Golam Mortuza Mozumder issued the warrant on Thursday. The next hearing is scheduled

British American Tobacco plans to offload stake in Indias ITC Hotels

Dec 4 (Reuters) British American Tobacco is looking to offload its stake in Indias ITC Hotels, it said on Thursday, through an accelerated bookbuild process. The tobacco group plans to sell between 7% and its entire 15.3% stake in ITC Hotels, with proceeds from the block trade earmarked for deleveraging its balance sheet. In May, BAT sld a $1.5 billion stake in ITC Ltd, the parent company from which ITC Hotels was spun off as a separate listed entity in January. As previously stated, a direct stake in ITC Hotels is not a strategic holding for BAT, CEO Tadeu

Assam government bans jihadi' literature connected to Bangla terror groups

GUWAHATI: The Assam government has prohibited all forms of 'radical or jihadi' literature, both print and digital, connected to Bangladeshi terror organisations or any other similar outfits under Section 98 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). An order in this regard, issued by the home department, followed the examination of a communication received from the police and the views of the judicial department. The order said intelligence inputs, cyber-patrolling reports and recent investigations undertaken by the Assam Police and the Special Task Force indicated the continued circulation, possession, dissemination and digital transmission of radical/jihadi literature, publications, documents and digital propaganda materials linked to Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), Ansar-Al-Islam/pro-AQIS etc, banned by the central government. such material includes content glorifying violent jihad, promoting radicalisation, providing ideological indoctrination, and facilitating recruitment, operational guidance, and incitement against the sovereignty of India, thereby posing a grave threat to public order, internal security and communal harmony, the order said. It mentioned that the publication, circulation, exhibition and possession of such material attract offences under relevant sections of BNSS, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Information Technology Act. According to the order, continued availability of such publications and digital propaganda, whether in print, electronic form or online platforms, perpetuates extremist ideology and renders vulnerable sections of youth susceptible to radicalisation. Therefore, the Government of Assam prohibits the publication, printing, circulation, distribution, sale, exhibition, possession and storage, whether physical or digital of any radical or jihadi literature, documents, materials or digital contentas well as all websites, social media pages, encrypted channels, online groups or digital platforms propagating such extremist or jihadi content for safeguarding internal security and preventing vulnerable youth from falling prey to extremist propaganda, the order said. It further stated that the Assam Police, Special Branch, Crime Investigation Department, district Senior Superintendents of Police, cybercrime units and all law-enforcement agencies would take necessary legal action under applicable provisions of law against the violators. Earlier, the Assam Police arrested several individuals in separate operations for their alleged links, particularly with JMB and ABT. The arrested individuals were allegedly involved in radicalising youth.

Persons with disabilities represent less than 1 pc of corporate workforce: Report

Mumbai, Dec 4 (PTI) There is less than 1 per cent representation of persons with disabilities (PwDs) at organisations across the country even as there has been a discussion, advocacy and policy reform over the years, a report said on Thursday. The total number of corporate workers with disabilities remains below 1 per cent, and 37.9 per cent of the companies surveyed indicated that they do not have any permanently employed disabled individuals, according to Marching Sheep PwD Inclusion Index 2025: Building Disability confident organisations report. The Marching Sheep PwD Inclusion Index 2025: Building Disability confident organisations report is based

Rupee recovers from record low level, rises 19 paise to close at 89.96/USD

Mumbai, Dec 4 (PTI) The rupee rebounded from its all-time low levels and appreciated by 19 paise to close at 89.96 against the US dollar on Thursday, on softness in the US dollar index and on reports of the Reserve Bank of Indias supposed intervention. Forex traders said the greenback fell after ADP non-farm payroll data came in sharply below forecast, and the softness in the US dollar index supported the rupee at lower levels. The rupee opened weak earlier in the day and touched a fresh all-time low of 90.43 amid selling pressure from foreign investors and rising crude

Stock markets snap four-day losing streak, Sensex climbs 158 points as IT shares rally

Mumbai, Dec 4 (PTI) Snapping the four-day losing run, benchmark Sensex climbed 158 points and Nifty settled above 26,000 on Thursday following buying in tech and IT shares. The 30-share BSE Sensex edged higher by 158.51 points or 0.19 per cent to settle at 85,265.32. During the day, it rose by 380.4 points or 0.44 per cent to 85,487.21. The 50-share NSE Nifty climbed 47.75 points or 0.18 per cent to 26,033.75. Sensex dropped around 613 points or 0.72 per cent while Nifty shed nearly 230 points or 0.8 per cent in four straight sessions to Wednesday. Tata Consultancy Services,

Hundreds Of Ambulances Off The Road In Assam Due To Strike By Drivers

The emergency medical response ambulance service of the Assam government has come to a standstill with nearly 800 ambulances remaining off the road due to an indefinite strike by the drivers.

Assam Bans Radical, Jihadi Literatures By Extremist Organisations

The Assam government has issued a complete ban on all forms of radical and jihadi literature linked to proscribed extremist organisations, invoking Section 98 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.

Parliament Session: Gaurav Gogoi invokes Nitin Gadkari's viral video, flags poor quality of NH-37; Union Minister assures action

The issue of poor quality National Highways was raised in the Parliament, particularly the NH-37 between Jorhat and Dibrugarh in Assam damaged after heavy rainfall

Tezpur University shutdown reaches sixth day as students demand VCs removal, CMs proposal rejected

Students at Tezpur University in Assam are on day six of their shutdown. They demand the removal of the vice-chancellor. Staffers rejected a proposal for a pro-vice-chancellor. The chief minister suggested the pro-VC appointment. Students allege corruption and financial irregularities. Academic activities remain suspended.

Govt tells visiting dignitaries not to meet LoP; its their insecurity: Rahul ahead of Putins visit

New Delhi, Dec 4 (PTI) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday alleged that the government tells visiting foreign dignitaries not to meet the Leader of the Opposition due to its insecurity. Gandhis remarks came hours ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putins two-day visit to India. The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha said it is a tradition that visiting foreign dignitaries meet the LoP but Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs were not following this norm. Normally the tradition is that those who come from abroad have a meeting with the LoP. This used

PM on two-day visit to Assam from Dec 20, CM Himanta reviews preparations

The Prime Minister, during his visit, will inaugurate the new terminal building of the Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport and also unveil a statue of Bordoloi, Assam's first Chief Minister, at Borjhar.

Skin-roasted peanuts found to boost brain blood flow in older adults: New study

Eating a daily skin-roasted peanuts may help older adults improve blood flow to their brains and boost memory, according to a new study. The new study suggests that a simple, everyday eating skin-roasted peanuts can supercharge blood flow in your brain a vital function that tends to weaken as we get older. Researchers found that the boost not only sharpened memory but also improved participants heart health. In the study, researchers at Maastricht University in the Netherlands recruited 31 healthy adults ages 60 to 75 and put them on a 16-week regimen in which they were asked to eat

Rupee slumps 28 paise to 90.43 against US dollar in early trade

Mumbai, Dec 4 (PTI) The rupee slumped 28 paise to an all-time low of 90.43 against the US dollar in early trade on Thursday, amid substantial foreign institutional investor outflows and restrained intervention from the Reserve Bank of India. Forex traders said that restrained central bank intervention ahead of the crucial Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decision and significant dollar demand from importers have exerted persistent downward pressure on the local currency. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 90.36. It slipped further to a record low of 90.43 against the greenback in initial deals, registering a loss

Chocing it up to taste: craft chocolate festival in Bengaluru to celebrate homegrown brands

The rich, creamy taste of chocolate melting on the tongue blends with the sweet memories of birthdays, Valentines days, anniversaries and holidays we hold dear whether your treat of choice is bitter and dark, creamy and milky or nut-filled and full of surprising textures. While most people may think of Belgian or Swiss chocolates as being the best you can get, in recent years, Indian craft chocolate has emerged and wooed the palates of Indian chocolate lovers. The Indian Cacao and Craft Chocolate Festival, set to be held this weekend, seeks to bring together craft chocolate brands from all over the country. But what makes craft chocolate so special? Ketaki Churi, the co-founder of The Indian Cacao and Craft Chocolate Festival answers that it lies in making an ethical choice while also prioritising health and quality. There is an abundance of nuanced flavours that get overwhelmed in mass produced chocolate because of heavy sweetening and artificial flavouring. Cacao is also a superfood with numerous health benefits; craft chocolate makers often use the highest quality beans purchased at higher prices from farmers, compared to the lower quality beans purchased at cheap prices by mass brands. She adds, The festival is a celebration where one can experience how chocolate is made, try different kinds of chocolate from brands across India and stock up on chocolate for the whole year! The chocolate available at the festival is bean to bar (brands who purchase cacao beans) and farm to bar (brands that grow their own cacao), with over 50 workshops catering to everyone from cacao farmers, chocolatiers, culinary students, to curious kids and Bengalureans with a sweet tooth. This is with the aim of facilitating an understanding of the processes behind craft chocolate and cultivating an appreciation for it, apart from just sampling the treats. Some highlights are a cheese and chocolate tasting session and a tea and chocolate pairing session. There are also a lot of events specifically for kids so they can understand what real chocolate is all about, says Churi. Other workshops include ones on making your own craft chocolate, tracing the history of cacao, and learning how to start your own chocolate brand. Over four years, the festival has grown into a place for people involved in different steps of the chocolate making process to collaborate. This year will showcase the fruits of two of these collaborations. Pascati from Mumbai and Grover Wines from Bengaluru are collaborating on a new chocolate bar which they will launch at the festival and which people can taste only here. We also have a brand called Bon Fiction from Andhra Pradesh collaborating with Dona Aideau, a tea sommelier from Assam, to make tea-infused chocolate, also available only at the festival. Pastry chefs are also coming in with desserts made with craft chocolate that are usually not available on their menu or their shops. (The festival will be held at Sabha, Kamaraj Road on December 5, 6, and 7. Timings vary. For details and tickets, visit craftchocolateindia.com)

JSM flags Assam bid to stop road work in WJH

From Our Correspondent JOWAI, Dec 3: The central body of the Jaintia Students Movement (JSM) has urged the Deputy Commissioner of West Jaintia Hills district not to let any Assam-based group or government agency obstruct the road construction work being carried out by the Meghalaya PWD at Khatkasla-Psiar under the Laskein C&RD Block. In a []

Assam CM hands appointment letters to 5,818 youth, highlights transparent recruitment

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma distributed appointment letters to 5,818 new recruits for the Assam Police and Home Department, pushing the total transparent government appointments to over 1.41 lakh. He emphasized merit-based recruitment, contrasting it with past nepotism, and highlighted the positive impact on youth empowerment and crime reduction in the state.

Your brain doesnt age the way you think

Previous research has found that the human brain reaches maturity sometime in the 20s, but a new study suggests that it never stops developing. Our brains rewire themselves completely five times over the course of our lifetimes, says a research team, whose insights suggest changes we can expect in these different phases of our lives. The turning points in neural networking occur at an average age of around 9, 32, 66 and 83, they say. The rewiring is accompanied by different ways of thinking as we grow, mature and age, says the study published in the journal Nature Communications. These

Assam: ED attaches assets worth Rs 31.76 crore belonging to income tax officer and his wife

New Delhi, Dec 3: The Enforcement Directorate (ED), Guwahati Zonal Office, has provisionally attached movable assets worth approximately Rs 31.76 crore belonging to Income Tax Officer Khurshed Khan and his wife, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, the agency said on Wednesday. The attachment was made through Provisional Attachment []

Foundation day of Assam and Nagaland celebrated in Jammu Kashmir Lok Bhavan

Jammu, 03 December : The Foundation Day of Assam and Nagaland was celebrated in Jammu Kashmir Lok Bhavan in presence of Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha. Statehood was officially conferred to Nagaland on 1 December 1963 while Assam Celebrates its Foundation Day on 2nd December. The Foundation Day programme was organised as part of the [] The post Foundation day of Assam and Nagaland celebrated in Jammu Kashmir Lok Bhavan appeared first on Kashmir Media Watch .

India revokes order to preload cybersecurity app Sanchar Saathi on smartphones after outcry

NEW DELHI, Dec 3 (Reuters) Indias government scrapped an order to smartphone makers on Wednesday to preload a state-run cybersecurity app Sanchar Saathi on all new devices after an outcry from politicians, privacy advocates and global tech companies over surveillance fears. Prime Minister Narendra Modis government had privately told companies including Apple, Samsung and Xiaomi on November 28 to preload new phones with an app that cannot be deleted called Sanchar Saathi within 90 days, Reuters was first to report on Monday. Government has decided not to make the pre-installation mandatory for mobile manufacturers, Indias communications ministry said in

Stock markets drop for 4th day amid relentless foreign fund outflows; Sensex dips 31 points

Mumbai, Dec 3 (PTI) Stock market benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended lower in a largely range-bound trade on Wednesday amid persistent foreign fund outflows and profit-taking by investors. Falling for the fourth day in a row, the 30-share BSE Sensex dipped 31.46 points or 0.04 per cent to settle at 85,106.81. During the day, it dropped 374.63 points or 0.44 per cent to 84,763.64. The 50-share NSE Nifty skidded 46.20 points or 0.18 per cent to 25,986. From the Sensex firms, Bharat Electronics, Mahindra & Mahindra, Titan, NTPC, State Bank of India, Adani Ports, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and

Assam: Himanta Biswa Sarma accuses Congress of making U-turn on ST status issue

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said opposition parties disrupted Parliament, preventing discussion on Scheduled Tribe status for six communities. Protests against the proposal occurred in Dima Hasao district and Kokrajhar. Students voiced concerns about diluted rights. The Chief Minister accused Congress of a U-turn on the issue.

Assam: CAG report flags shortfall in enrolment, low claims settlement in tea workers PF org

GUWAHATI, Dec 3:From close to 40,000 tea estate workers not registered for provident fund facility to low rate of settlement of family pension claims, several issues plaguing the Assam Tea Employees Provident Fund Organisation (ATEPFO) have been flagged by the CAG in a recent report. The Comptroller and Auditor General report on the organisation from 2017-18 to 2021-22, which was recently laid in the state assembly, has highlighted areas where the ATEPFO, which was established to ensure social security benefits [] The post Assam: CAG report flags shortfall in enrolment, low claims settlement in tea workers PF org appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Indias oil imports and other issues will be on the agenda for Putin meeting with Modi

NEW DELHI, December 3, 2025 (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin will be in India this week for a summit aimed at deepening economic, defense and energy ties, a visit that will also test New Delhis efforts to balance relations with Moscow and Washington as the war in Ukraine grinds on. Putin is scheduled to arrive on the state visit Thursday and hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday. They are expected to review progress on bilateral ties, discuss issues of mutual interest and sign interdepartmental and business agreements, both governments said. India has continued to buy

Cough syrup case: Fourth man arrested from Lucknow for illegal storage, trade of banned drug

The informants revealed that these drugs were being sent to other parts of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, West Bengal and Bangladesh

Gaurav Gogoi seeks PMs intervention amid administrative, financial crisis at Tezpur University

Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking urgent intervention in the ongoing crisis at Tezpur University, where academic activities have been suspended since November 27.

Low blood pressure, cold skin and fading strength. Her family dismissed it as overthinking. Doctor's one test revealed the truth

A young woman's severe pain was dismissed as 'drama' by her family at an Assam hospital, but Dr. Priyam Bordoloi's quick assessment revealed critical low hemoglobin and early septic shock. The doctor's decision to believe the patient over her family's denial saved her life, highlighting the crucial role of trusting patients when others doubt them.

Raj Bhavan celebrates Statehood Day of Assam, Nagaland

By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Dec 2: The Statehood Day of Assam and Nagaland was celebrated at Raj Bhavan here on Tuesday, with Governor CH Vijayashankar underscoring the economic and cultural importance of the two states in the Northeastern region. Speaking at the Durbar Hall, the Governor said Assams expanding economic base and its role as []

Gauhati HC clears Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani in case linked to Assam woman police officer

GUWAHATI: The Gauhati High Court has cleared Gujarat Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani of charges under IPC Section 354 in a case involving an Assam woman police officer. In a recent order, the court said the continuation of proceedings under IPC Section 354 (assault or criminal force to a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty) would amount to abuse of the process of law. when the allegation fails to satisfy even at the minimal threshold, particularly, when the essential ingredients required under Section 354 IPC are conspicuously absent, this Court is required to exercise its inherent power to prevent abuse of process and to secure the end of justice. Therefore, in the totality of the matter, in the opinion of this Court, continuation of proceedings under section 354 IPC would amount to abuse of the process of law and miscarriage of justice, the court said in its order. The court, however, upheld the charge framed under IPC Section 352 (punishment for assault or criminal force). Two cases were registered in Assam in 2022. A BJP leader in Kokrajhar had lodged a complaint after an alleged objectionable tweet from Mevanis account on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This was followed by his arrest from Gujarat on April 21 the same year. The second case was registered after an officer had accused him of misbehaving with her inside a vehicle while he was being taken to Kokrajhar from Guwahati in connection with the first case. The court said the statements of witnesses suggested physical contact in the form of pushing and using aggressive and abusive behaviour towards the victim but there was no assertion of any sexually suggestive gesture or remark accompanied by such an act. Mevani was granted bail before filing of the charge sheet on July 7, 2022. Later, an Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate framed charges against him under IPC Sections 352 and 354 but dropped two other charges which were framed under different Sections.

Assam-based Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) gets Navratna status

Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) has been granted Navratna status, recognizing its strong performance and ambitious growth. This achievement is linked to its ongoing refinery expansion and the recently inaugurated bamboo-based bioethanol plant, driving energy security and green growth from Assam. The company is significantly increasing its capacity with a substantial investment.

Immortal Forever: Assam Official's 'Voter List' Tribute To Zubeen Garg

The love for Assam's heartthrob Zubeen Garg continues to manifest through countless acts by his followers, even after his death.

Imam uses mosques loud speaker to alert sinking car, saves 7 lives

An Imam from Assams Sribhumi district saved seven lives with his quick thinking on Tuesday, December 2, after he found that a car had fallen into a reservoir and alerted others through the mosques loudspeaker. According to reports, the incident occurred in the Nilambazar area when the car skidded off a National Highway at around 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 .

Suspected extremist gunned down in Assam

Police said Modi Hmar was a member of the Hill Peoples Convention (Democratic), an armed group

India mandates pre-installation of government app Sanchar Saathi on all smartphones

NEW DELHI, December 2, 2025 (AP) Indias telecoms ministry has directed smartphone manufacturers to pre-install a government-run cybersecurity app on all new devices, according to a government order, raising concerns of data privacy and user consent in one of the largest handset markets in the world. The Ministry of Communications order issued Monday asked smartphone makers to pre-install the governments Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices within 90 days and to prevent users from deleting it. The order also requires manufacturers to push the app onto older models through a software update, extending the mandate beyond phones available

Apple to resist India order to preload Sanchar Saathi as political outcry builds

NEW DELHI, Dec 2 (Reuters) Apple does not plan to comply with a mandate to preload its smartphones with a state-owned cyber safety app and will convey its concerns to New Delhi, three sources said, after the governments move sparked surveillance concerns and a political uproar. The Indian government has confidentially ordered companies including Apple, Samsung and Xiaomi to preload their phones with an app called Sanchar Saathi, or Communication Partner, within 90 days. The app is intended to track stolen phones, block them and prevent them from being misused. The government also wants manufacturers to ensure that the

Meghalaya Congress claims 'ONE' as BJP-RSS design

GUWAHATI: The Congress in Meghalaya claimed that One North East (ONE) is a BJP-RSS design. The Northeast regional front was launched in the first week of November in New Delhi. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Tripuras Tipra Motha Party (TMP) founder leader Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma were at the forefront of its launch. Meghalaya Congress president Vincent H Pala claimed that the BJP had designed ONE following its realisation that the tribals in the Northeast disliked the saffron party. They have created an extra basket to ensure that people, who are anti-BJP, end up in ONE and do not go to the Congress, Pala, the former Shillong MP, said. Claiming that he overheard a conversation between BJP and RSS leaders at an airport, he said all those in ONE are the 'friends' of the BJP. Sangmas National Peoples Party (NPP) and Debbarmas TMP are BJP allies, and they have not shown any signs of severing ties. The BJP is a constituent of the NPP-headed Meghalaya government. Similarly, the TMP is a part of the BJP-led Tripura government. Former BJP national spokesperson Mmhonlumo Kikon, who is also a former Nagaland minister, and Peoples Party of Assam chief Daniel Langthasa, are two other leaders of ONE. Pala advised the people of the Northeast to be wary of ONE, reiterating that it is just another front of the BJP. 'Our strength lies in unity': Meghalaya CM Sangma, other Northeast leaders form united political entity ONE was constituted with an aim to highlight the issues of the Northeasts indigenous people and represent their voices in national politics. For too long, we, the younger generation leaders of the Northeast, have spoken about the same issues and concerns of our people, but from different platforms and political spaces, we have realised that our strength lies in unity, and that, it is time to give our people one collective voice, the quartet had stated in a joint statement after the Delhi announcement. They said they had resolved to carry forward their ideals by coming together under a shared vision for the future of the Northeast, taking inspiration from the vision and legacy of great leaders who fought selflessly for the identity and development of our land.

Gold declines Rs 1,670 to Rs 1,31,530/10g amid weak global cues

New Delhi, Dec 2 (PTI) Gold prices plunged Rs 1,670 to Rs 1,31,530 per 10 grams in the national capital on Tuesday, amid weak trends in the international markets, according to the All India Sarafa Association. The precious metal of 99.9 per cent purity had settled at Rs 1,33,200 per 10 grams in the previous market session. Gold edged lower on Tuesday as traders booked profits after prices hit a multi-week high in the previous session, while a cautious approach adopted by traders before the important US macro data due later this week also contributed to the decline, Saumil Gandhi,

Kharge, Rahul meet Assam Congress leaders to discuss preparations for 2026 assembly polls

NEW DELHI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chief Rahul Gandhi held a meeting with the party's Assam unit leaders on Tuesday to discuss preparations for the next year's assembly elections, the Special Revision (SR) of electoral rolls, and other important issues of the state. Congress general secretary (organization) K C Venugopal, Pradesh Congress Committee chief Gaurav Gogoi, AICC in-charge of state Jitendra Singh, Congress legislative party leader (CLP) Debabrata Saikia, and other leaders attended the meeting. Sources said that preparations for the assembly elections, SR, and other issues were discussed in the meeting. The Assam Assembly elections are likely to be held in March-April next year. The process of SR of voter lists is underway in the state. According to instructions issued by the Election Commission for the chief electoral officer of Assam, January 1, 2026, will be the qualifying date for the state to carry out the Special Revision. Officials earlier said that the SR stands somewhere between the annual special summary revision and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The EC had last month ordered SIR in 12 states and Union territories, with four going to polls next year.

Rupee slumps 42 paise to close at all-time low of 89.95 against US dollar; hits 90/USD intra-day

Mumbai, Dec 2 (PTI) The rupee hit the psychological 90-a-dollar level in intraday trade before settling 42 paise down at an all-time low of 89.95 (provisional) against the US dollar on Tuesday, largely owing to continued short-covering from speculators and sustained importer demand for the American currency. Forex traders said multiple pressures, like foreign fund outflows from equities and lingering uncertainty over the Indo-US trade deal, are keeping investor sentiment fragile. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 89.70, then lost its ground and fell to a record intraday low of 90.00 against the US dollar, down

MP Gaurav Gogoi urges PM Modi to intervene as Tezpur University unrest intensifies, exams rescheduled

GUWAHATI: Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has petitioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention as Assams Tezpur University continues to face prolonged student-led unrest, which has disrupted both academic and administrative functioning and forced authorities to reschedule the end-term examinations. In his letter, Gogoi, who also heads the Assam Congress unit, flagged what he described as widespread dissatisfaction among students, faculty members and staff owing to alleged administrative misconduct, lack of accountability and poor institutional management under the current Vice-Chancellor, Prof Shambhu Nath Singh. According to him, the situation escalated after Singh made insensitive remarks following the death of music icon Zubeen Garg and the university failed to observe the state mourning period. This, he stated, contributed to campus unrest and a magisterial inquiry initiated by the Sonitpur district administration. The Tezpur University Teachers Association has reported several pressing issues, including administrative negligence, with the Vice Chancellor frequently (remaining) absent from campus without formal delegation of authority, leading to delays and administrative paralysis, Gogoi said. He further stated that the universitys academic performance had declined sharply, pointing to a significant drop in the National Institutional Ranking Framework standings due to shortages of teachers, stalled recruitment processes and inadequate research support. There are also allegations of financial and procurement irregularities, such as unauthorised use of university property, excessive travel expenditure, procurement without tendering, and engagement of agencies lacking transparency. Appointments and extensions have reportedly been made in violation of the Tezpur University Act and Statutes, including the tenure of the Finance Officer and the ad hoc creation of contractual positions, Gogoi wrote. He also highlighted concerns over the quality of newly constructed infrastructure, noting that hostels and academic buildings were already showing structural defects, indicating lapses in supervision and quality control. Tezpur University has long been a premier centre of learning in the Northeast, and its current decline underscores the need for immediate intervention to restore academic standards and institutional integrity. I seek your urgent attention to the issues outlined above and respectfully urge that necessary measures be undertaken to address the challenges confronting the university, he appealed to the Prime Minister. The student-led agitation, which began in September, has paralysed academic and administrative activities. The protestors are demanding action over several issues, including alleged financial irregularities under the Vice-Chancellor.

A BLOs Tears & A Note Of Love: Assam Bends Rules, Refuses To Let Zubeen Garg Go

When a voter passes away, their name must be removed from the list. But in this case, the BLO could not bring himself to delete the artists name

From Assam to Kerala: How Indian states got their names

India's diverse states bear names reflecting their rich cultural tapestry, drawing from local languages, Sanskrit, ancient kingdoms, and historical identities. From the 'Home of Snowy Mountains' in Himachal Pradesh to the 'Land of Five Rivers' in Punjab, each name tells a unique story of origin and heritage.

Those Who Brought You To Power Must Always Come First: PM Modis Strong Message To Assam MPs

According to sources, the Prime Minister sought detailed updates on ongoing state and central projects in Assam and heard from MPs about their priorities on the ground

Amid Parliament gridlock, Centre says 'ready for discussion' on SIR but remains non-committal on time

The Union government is ready for a discussion on the SIR issue and electoral reforms in Parliament, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said in Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, but asked Opposition parties not to insist on setting a timeline. As the Opposition demanded discussion on Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls for a second day in a row, Rijiju said he will hold discussions with leaders of various political parties to decide on the issue. His statement came after opposition MPs stormed into the well of the House and raised slogans demanding discussion on SIR. Leader of the Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said 28 block-level officers (BLOs) have died due to the excessive workload of SIR. This is an urgent matter. We want the discussion to take place now. In the interest of democracy, in the interest of citizens, in the interest of the country, you should allow a discussion (on SIR). We will definitely cooperate, he told Chairman C P Radhakrishnan. Earlier, the chairman said he had rejected 21 notices received under Rule 267, which calls for setting aside the business of the day to take up discussion on the issue being raised. He said the notices were on five different subjects, but not in order, and so were not admitted. He neither named the MPs who had moved the notices nor the subject contained in them. Opposition MPs pointed out that not naming the MPs or the subject contained in the 267 notices was against the traditions of the House. Kharge said it has been an established tradition of the Rajya Sabha to indicate the subject as well as the MP who has given the 267 notice. Now suddenly, MPs who gave notices, their names are not read, nor is the subject read out. He went on to allege that while the previous Chair would only look at the Leader of the House, J P Nadda, while conducting the proceedings, Radhakrishnan was only looking at his table. We want you to look at all sides. The Chairman responded that when the House is in order, he will listen to everyone. Bringing the House in order is your job, the government's job, not our job, Kharge replied. Opposition leaders vs Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju on SIR debate amidst BLO suicides Radhakrishnan said the Parliamentary Affairs Minister on Monday stated openness for a discussion and had sought time to come back on the issue. Nadda said he has been told that a meeting with Opposition leaders will take place very soon to decide on the issue. Yesterday, I said, please don't put timeline conditions on anything, Rijiju said. My only limited request is that I am going to engage with leaders of different political parties, it may be formally, informally, ultimately it will come to you (the Chair)... Once we start the process of consultation. Now the problem begins when you start questioning time; everything cannot be mechanical, he responded. In a parliamentary democracy, there has to be dialogue and discussion, he said. There are many issues in the country. You should not undermine one issue and take up another issue. All the issues are important. As Opposition MPs again pressed for an immediate discussion on SIR, he targeted them, saying they were venting out their anger at not being able to win elections. You cannot win elections, people don't trust you, and you take out your anger in the House. This is not correct, he said, adding that elections are the people's platform in a democracy. I stated yesterday also, we are ready for discussion, but we have to first meet formally. It is not right to insist on time. Earlier, as soon as the listed official papers were laid on the table of the House, Opposition MPs started raising slogans demanding a discussion on SIR. Some of them moved into the well of the House. Radhakrishnan said this was not correct and asked them to go back to their seats. You cannot take the House for granted. I am not going to allow this indiscipline, he said and called for the listed Zero Hour mentions. The initial MPs listed for raising matters of urgent public importance happened to be from the Opposition. Called to speak, when they mentioned that a discussion on SIR should take place, the Chair ruled that they had to stick to the subject mentioned in their notices. He then quickly called the next MP. He didn't even initially allow a point of order sought by Tiruchi Siva of DMK. What point of order? You want to speak on the subject or not? How can I allow a point of order when everybody is shouting? What is the point of order when there is no order? Nobody can take the House for granted, he said, asking opposition MPs to first go back to their seats. Opposition MPs returned to their seats. Siva then raised a point of order, noting that the Chair had not indicated the reason for rejecting 267 notices. Radhakrishnan said he had indicated the reason for rejecting the notices in his ruling. Amid the din, the Chair called for the next Zero Hour mention. Ajit Kumar Bhuyan (IND) raised the issue of irregularities in a university in Assam, while K Laxman (BJP) raised the issue of drug abuse posing a threat to public health and national security. Baburam Nishad (BJP) spoke on the Ken-Betwa inter-river linking project. Opposition leaders vs Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju on SIR debate amidst BLO suicides

'Regime change operation' claim not in chargesheet: Gulfisha Fatima to SC in 2020 Delhi riots case

NEW DELHI: Stressing that she cannot be subjected to endless custody, activist Gulfisha Fatima told the Supreme Court on Tuesday that Delhi Police's claim of a coordinated egime change operation finds no mention in its chargesheet while seeking bail in the February 2020 riots case. Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Fatima, told a bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and N V Anjaria that the activist has spent under six years in incarceration and termed the delay in the trial astonishing and unprecedented. Where have you alleged regime change as the heart of your chargesheet? he asked and added that the prosecution's claim of a pan-India conspiracy o separate Assam from India is equally unfounded. What is the basis? Singh said. Strongly opposing the bail pleas of activists Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam and others in the February 2020 riots in the city, Delhi Police said it was not something spontaneous but an orchestrated, a pre-planned, and a well-designed attack on the sovereignty of the nation. No proof of violence: Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, Gulfisha tell SC in 2020 Delhi riots case Singhvi submitted that charges against Fatima are yet to be framed and she cannot be subjected to endless custody particularly when 939 witnesses have been cited. Seeking parity with co-accused Natasha Narwal, Devangana Kalita and Asif Iqbal Tanha, who were granted bail by the High Court in June 2021, Singhvi argued that Fatima is the only woman still in jail. They got bail in 2021. Mine is a much lesser case, Singhvi submitted. Singhvi argued that the allegation that Fatima attended a secret meeting was similar to the charges levelled against Narwal and Kalita. There is no evidence of chilli powder, acid, or anything else. There was no recovery. They uploaded it on social media. How can it be a secret meeting? Singhvi asked. Singhvi argued that the Delhi Police has failed to substantiate its allegations against the accused. The hearing will continue at 12.30 pm. Khalid, Imam, Fatima, Meeran Haider, and Rehman were booked under the UAPA, the stringent anti-terror law, and provisions of the erstwhile IPC for allegedly being the masterminds of the 2020 riots, which left 53 people dead and over 700 injured. The violence erupted during widespread protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC).

Abdominal obesity associated with multiple heart risks, especially in men

Abdominal obesitythe phenomenon commonly known as beer bellyis associated with significant cardiovascular risks, according to new data being presented at RSNA 2025 in Chicago. Abdominal obesity, a high waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), is associated with more concerning cardiac remodeling patterns than high body mass index (BMI) alone, lead author Jennifer Erley, MD, a radiology resident at University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf in Germany, said in an RSNA statement. It appears to lead to a potentially pathological form of cardiac remodeling, concentric hypertrophy, where the heart muscle thickens but the overall size of the heart doesnt increase, leading to smaller cardiac volumes. In

Judiciary will see through this political vendetta: Congress on fresh FIR in Herald case

New Delhi, Dec 2 (PTI) The Congress on Tuesday attacked the Modi government over the filing of a fresh FIR in the National Herald case and said it is confident that the judiciary will see through this political vendetta and mindless attempts to hound. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said 12 years on, and suddenly, there is a new FIR in the old case on the Gandhi family targeting the Congress party. Simply because the Modi government and the ED have exhausted their supply of fresh smears. When facts ran thin, theatrics stepped in: selective prosecutions, recycled allegations, and a thinly

When an Earthquake Stopped Play: Cricket's Rare Tremor Interruptions

Few days back, the play on the third day of Ireland's second Test in Dacca, Bangladesh, was suddenly stopped, during the second ball of the 56th over of Ireland's first innings. Reason: A 5.7 magnitude earthquake in Dhaka around 10.38am local time. The impact of the earthquake was felt in Kolkata, several parts of West Bengal, and Assams Guwahati also, where the second India- South Africa Test was scheduled to play after a few days. The moment the earthquake struck the visitors were at 165 for 5 when play was suddenly interrupted, leaving players and officials visibly startled. Play was stopped but players stayed on the field at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. All others related to the teams also came on the ground while spectators ran for the safety cover. Play resumed after approximately four minutes. For many it was a new experience but not for the Ireland head coach Heinrich Malan who said, I've been involved in a couple of earthquakes from my time living in New Zealand. The match was going on. I was in the press box. It was a terrifying situation. The press box collapsed - it was a terrible situation, Ariful Islam Roney, a Bangladesh sports journalist present in the press box, revealed. This is probably the first-time play stopped in a Test match due to an earthquake but not the first-time earthquake that has found mention in cricket. In 2016 the earthquake hit North India and Gujarat Lions IPL side was in a hotel at Mohali for their match against Kings XI Punjab. The players were evacuated from their hotel. The tremors were felt around 3:58 pm, measuring 6.8 on the Richter Scale. The overseas players Dale Steyn, Aaron Finch and Andrew Tye shared their experience on social media. Tye spoke to Cricket Australia and revealed, I was sitting on the end of my bed fixing a cricket bat and it felt like the bed started to move. I was like what happened there and I looked around the room and certain things were shaking, so I thought it must be an earthquake. Christchurchs Hagley Oval is a permanent reminder of the earthquake that devastated Christchurch in 2011. The earthquake, which registered 6.3 on the Richter scale, resulted in the deaths of more than 100 people. Incidentally, the third day of the Test between New Zealand and Australia in 2016 (the second Test match played at this stadium), fell on the fifth anniversary of the earthquake and a minute's silence was observed during the lunch break at 12.51pm, the same time the earthquake struck. Another surprise is both the sides of the 2016 Test, also felt tremors on reaching Christchurch twice, before the start of the Test. The Hagley Oval became the city's major cricket venue only due to the damage to Lancaster Park, by earthquake. In 2022, an Under-19 World Cup clash between Zimbabwe and Ireland was briefly halted, due to a 5.2 magnitude earthquake at the Queens Park Oval, Port of Spain. The commentator Andrew Leonard shouted on the air, We are... I believe we are having an earthquake right now. In the box. We are indeed having an earthquake. It felt like not just a train going by behind us, but the whole Queen's Park Oval media centre rocked. Ireland spinner Matthew Humphreys was bowling the fifth bowl of the sixth over to Brian Bennett when the front-on camera showing the action began to shake furiously. Play was not interrupted, although the broadcaster's camera wobbled and the tremors were felt. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The best India earthquake story occurred during the first unofficial Test between Lord Tennyson's XI and India at Lahore in November 1937. On the second day of the four-day match, at the Bagh-e-Jinnah (Lawrence Gardens) ground, a tremor that lasted for approximately 90 seconds was felt. Its on record that a clock in the pavilion fell to the ground with a crash. Play was stopped for two minutes and after that match resumed. Lord Tennyson, standing in the slips, thought he had a sunstroke when the buildings around the ground started shaking.

Assam HIV crisis: Injecting drug users drive over 60% of cases, awareness campaigns intensify

Injecting drug use is a major concern in Assam, driving over 60 percent of HIV cases. The Assam State AIDS Control Society is working to increase HIV status awareness. Efforts continue to combat stigma and discrimination against people living with HIV. More awareness campaigns are needed across the state.

Over 25 lakh people living with HIV in India, second largest globally: Govt report

NEW DELHI : India has an estimated 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest number globally in 2024, although the annual HIV incidence rate remains very low in the country, according to a government report released on Monday to mark World AIDS Day. The India HIV Estimation 2025 technical report, released by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, states that in 202425, 73% of newly detected HIV-positive persons reported acquiring the infection through heterosexual transmission. This was followed by injecting drug use, which accounted for 11.5% of reported transmissions. Another 5.4% of cases were attributed to homosexual/bisexual transmission, while 3.5% were due to vertical transmission. The HIV epidemic in India continues to be low, with adult HIV prevalence at 0.20% in 2024. While overall prevalence is low, India has 25.61 lakh people living with HIV (PLHIV), the second largest PLHIV population globally. The annual HIV incidence rate also remains very low at 0.05 per 1,000 uninfected population, the report said. Of the total 25.61 lakh PLHIV, 13.97 lakh are males and 11.64 lakh are females. Maharashtra (3.99 lakh) has the highest PLHIV burden, followed by Andhra Pradesh (3.10 lakh) and Karnataka (2.91 lakh). Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar, Gujarat and Punjab also have estimated PLHIV figures ranging from one lakh to two lakh. Together, these nine states account for 74% of the total PLHIV burden in India, the annual report said. It added that the total PLHIV population in India in 2024 contributed 6.3% to the global HIV burden of 4.08 crore and 37.1% of the 69 lakh cases in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2024, Indias population living with HIV was second only to South Africas 78 lakh, owing to its population size, the report noted. HIV burden in South-East Asia remains substantial; 88,000 newly infected in 2024: WHO In 2024, around 64,470 new HIV infections and 32,160 AIDS-related deaths were estimated nationally, marking declines of 48.69% and 81.42%, respectively, compared to 2010. These reductions far exceeded the global averages of 40% and 54%, the report added. Highlighting Indias sustained progress under the National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP), Nadda reaffirmed the governments commitment to a rights-based, stigma-free, and inclusive HIV response. He emphasised that under NACP-V, access to prevention, testing, and treatment services has continued to expand, demonstrating strong and sustained momentum across key programme areas. Nadda said that between 2010 and 2024, new HIV infections declined by 48.7%, AIDS-related deaths by 81.4%, and mother-to-child transmission by 74.6%. Testing coverage increased from 4.13 crore in 202021 to 6.62 crore in 202425, while the number of people on treatment rose from 14.94 lakh to 18.60 lakh. Viral load testing also expanded significantlyfrom 8.90 lakh to 15.98 lakh tests. He noted that these achievements surpass global averages for the same period and reflect strong political commitment, sustained domestic investment, evidence-based programme strategies, and consistent community engagement. The report also found that AIDS-related mortality was highest in Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. However, it noted that AIDS-related deaths have declined between 2010 and 2024 in nearly all states and UTs except Chandigarh, Punjab, Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura, where more PLHIV died of AIDS-related causes in 2024 compared to 2010. Globally, annual AIDS-related deaths declined by 54% between 2010 and 2024. The report stated that two statesMizoram and Nagalandhad an HIV prevalence of more than 1%. It also highlighted a noticeable increasing trend in the prevalence of new infections in the northeastern states of Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Assam, as well as in the northern state of Punjab, primarily driven by the rise in new infections. Nationally, annual new cases were estimated to decline by around 48.70% between 2010 and 2024, but increased by more than 400% in Arunachal Pradesh and Tripura. Similarly, in Punjab and Meghalaya, the annual new infections estimated for 2024 have nearly doubled compared to 2010. In 2024, 30 districts were estimated to have an adult HIV prevalence of 1% or more, with 29 of these located in Nagaland (11 districts), Mizoram (10), Manipur (5), Meghalaya (2) and Arunachal Pradesh (1). The only other district in this category is in Karnataka. Are fund cuts reversing the global fight against HIV?

SSC Constable GD recruitment 2026: Registration starts at ssc.gov.in; check direct link, vacancies, other details

The Staff Selection Commission has opened online registrations for 25,487 Constable (GD) posts in CAPFs, SSF, and Assam Rifles for 2026. Applications are accepted from December 1 to December 31, 2025, with the exam tentatively scheduled for February to April 2026. Candidates need a 10th-class pass and must meet age criteria.

Clash Erupts In Village Along Assam-Meghalaya Border Over Name Plate Removal

Additional security forces were deployed in the area to prevent further escalation of tensions.

Government not averse to taking up discussion on SIR, electoral reforms: Kiren Rijiju

NEW DELHI: Union parliamentary affairs minister, Kiren Rijiju, on Monday stated in Rajya Sabha that the Government is not averse to holding a detailed discussion on the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Clarifying the Governments stand on the Oppositions insistence, he said that their request for a debate on the issue is already under active consideration. However, Rijiju urged the Opposition members not to press for a strict timeline for conducting the discussion. Nobody is undermining any matter which was brought out by the Opposition party yesterday in the all-party meeting or Business Advisory Committee (BAC) today. What I am saying is, it is under the consideration of the governmentif you put a condition that it has to be taken up today itself, then it becomes difficult, because you have to give certain space, Rijiju said. The minister also said that certain parties raised matters other than the SIR and stressed the need to protect their rights as well. However, I am saying again, the matter is related to whatever you call it, special intensive revision or electoral reforms or whatever. I have stated before the beginning of the winter session that the Government is not averse to taking up discussion on anything, said Rijiju. As the Opposition continued insisting on a timeline referring to his remarks at the BAC that he would respond by Sunday 9 pm, the minister said, Please give us some time while there are other businesses, which are listed, that can be taken up. The demand, which you have put forward, has not been rejected. So, don't presume that the government is not ready to discuss any matter. Please do not put a condition on the timeline, the minister added. On this, Trinamool Congress (TMC) floor leader Derek O'Brien retorted sharply. Problem is not the timeline but the trust deficit, he shouted back. As the Upper House welcomed Radhakrishnan on his first day of conducting the House proceedings, O'Brien called for the start of a discussion on electoral reforms with immediate effect, while the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPM) MP John Brittas said the Parliamentary Affairs Minister should honour his words and the House should hold a discussion on electoral reforms. Earlier, Leader of Opposition and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge demanded that the discussion should start immediately. He also asked the ruling party not to divide opposition parties. Don't divide us. If you try to divide us, we will be stronger, he said. Meanwhile, Rajya Sabha chairman CP Radhakrishnan disallowed the notices given by nine Opposition members on several issues, including a discussion on SIR under rule 267, leading to protests by them. The Chairman later asked members to raise their Zero Hour mentions. The Election Commission of India (ECI) had announced SIR in West Bengal, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Chhattisgarh, and Goa. Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and West Bengal will go to the polls in 2026. In Assam, where polls are also due in 2026, the revision of electoral rolls was announced separately.

SSC Constable GD recruitment 2026: Registration begins for 25,487 posts at ssc.gov.in; direct link to apply and key details here

SSC Constable GD recruitment 2025: The Staff Selection Commission has opened online registrations for 25,487 Constable (GD) posts in CAPFs, SSF, and Assam Rifles for 2026. Applications are accepted from December 1 to December 31, 2025, with a tentative exam schedule for February to April 2026. Candidates need to complete a One-Time Registration and meet age and educational criteria.

Gold surges Rs 3,040 to Rs 1.33 lakh/10g amid strong global cues, weak US dollar

New Delhi, Dec 1 (PTI) Gold prices surged by Rs 3,040 to Rs 1,33,200 per 10 grams in the national capital on Monday, tracking strong global trends and a weak US dollar, according to the All India Sarafa Association. Analysts said sustained jewellery demand amid the ongoing wedding season supported the precious metal. The precious metal of 99.5 per cent purity zoomed by Rs 3,040 to Rs 1,32,600 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes). Gold is now inching closer to its all-time high of Rs 1,34,800 per 10 grams (99.9 per cent purity) and Rs 1,34,200 per 10 grams

Bangladeshs ousted PM Hasina and her British lawmaker niece both found guilty of corruption

DHAKA, Bangladesh, December 1, 2025 (AP) A court in Bangladeshs capital sentenced ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to five years in prison and her niece, British Labour Party lawmaker Tulip Siddiq, to two years in prison on Monday for corruption involving a government land project. Rabiul Alam, the judge of Dhakas Special Judges Court, said Hasina misused her power as prime minister while Siddiq was guilty of corruptly influencing her aunt in helping her mother and two siblings get a land plot in a government project. Siddiqs mother, Sheikh Rehana, was given seven years in prison and was considered

Assam CM Calls Tribal Groups for Talks Amid ST Status Dispute

Why BJP need more than three terms of rule to fulfil this commitment: Congress

Assams 'missing' 1984 commission report released after 41 years

A long-buried report from the 1980s has resurfaced in Assam. It reveals governments ignored early warnings about land and identity tensions. Unchecked immigration and land encroachments were identified as key problems. The report suggested measures to protect Assamese identity and regulate land transfers.

As US hunger rises, Trump administrations efficiency goals cause massive food waste

Washington, Dec 1 (The Conversation) The US government has caused massive food waste during President Donald Trumps second term. Policies such as immigration raids, tariff changes and temporary and permanent cuts to food assistance programmes have left farmers short of workers and money, food rotting in fields and warehouses, and millions of Americans hungry. And that doesnt even include the administrations actual destruction of edible food. The U.S. government estimates that more than 47 million people in America dont have enough food to eat even with federal and state governments spending hundreds of billions of dollars a year on

Assam Government To Hold Talks With Protesters Over Scheduled Tribe Report

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said his government is willing to invite those who are protesting against the report on granting Scheduled Tribe status to six communities to discuss GoM report recommending tribal status for six communities.

Rupee trades in narrow range against US dollar in early trade

Mumbai, Dec 1 (PTI) The rupee traded in a narrow range against the US dollar in early trade on Monday, as the support from positive domestic equities was negated by elevated crude oil prices and foreign fund outflows. Forex traders said significant dollar demand by importers has exerted persistent downward pressure on the local currency. Moreover, investors are adopting a cautious stance amid ongoing trade tensions with the US, with expectations of a settlement towards the end of the year. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 89.45. It slipped further to trade at 89.46 against the

Soybean oil may be linked to obesity, new study finds

A new study published in the Journal of Lipid Research suggests that soybean oil, the most widely consumed cooking oil in India, may play a direct role in promoting obesity, and the effect appears tied to how the body processes one of its main components. Researchers fed mice a diet rich in soybean oil and tracked how they metabolized linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that makes up a large share of soybean oil. Linoleic acid is broken down in the body into molecules called oxylipins, and eating a lot of linoleic acid can raise the amount of these oxylipins.

What to know about Israeli PM Netanyahus request for a pardon in corruption trial

JERUSALEM, December 1, 2025 (AP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has requested a pardon from the president during his trial on corruption charges that has long divided the country. The request was met with indignation Sunday by opposition politicians and government watchdogs, but some Israelis signaled support and indicated it is time to move on. The presidents office called the request extraordinary, with significant implications. At stake is the reputation of Israels justice system as well as Netanyahus hold on power. Heres what to know. The charges Netanyahu is the only sitting prime minister in Israels history to stand

Trump says hell release MRI results; he doesnt know what part of his body was scanned

WASHINGTON, December 1, 2025 (AP) President Donald Trump said Sunday that he would release the results of his MRI test that he received in October. If you want to have it released, Ill release it, the president said during an exchange with reporters as he traveled back to Washington from Florida. He said the results of the MRI were perfect. The White House has so far declined to detail why Trump had an MRI during his physical last month, or on what part of his body. The press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, has said that the president received advanced imaging

Assam's land a magnet for illegals, says report 'suppressed' for 41 years

A 41-year-old report by the Tribhuvan Prasad Tewary Commission, recently made public by the Assam government, reveals that successive administrations allowed the state's land and identity crisis to worsen. The report, which investigated the 1983 Nellie massacre, identified illegal immigration and land disputes as key drivers of violence, not just communal clashes.

80 people killed in police encounter since 2021: Assam CM Sarma

Assam's Chief Minister revealed that 80 individuals have died in police encounters since May 2021. Of these, 39 died in police custody and 41 before remand. Additionally, 183 accused were shot or injured in custody, with 40 more injured before remand. All incidents are subject to FIR registration and magistrate-level inquiries.

Assam CM stoking conflict between communities, says Gaurav Gogoi after report on ST status for six groups

After a Group of Ministers report proposed a three-tier classification of STs to accommodate the demand of six communities for ST status, the Congress leader says the report has failed to convince that the rights of existing ST communities will remain intact. He accuses Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of doing divide and rule politics.

80 Killed In Police Encounters, Custody Since 2021, Assam Assembly Told

39 of them died in police custody, while 41 died in custody before they were produced before the court.

Assam government's move for ST status to six communities upsets existing tribals

GUWAHATI: Tension is brewing in Assam over the proposed inclusion of six communities in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list. A Group of Ministers (GoM) tabled an interim report in the Assembly on Saturday, recommending a three-tier classification of STs ST (Plains), ST (Hills) and ST (Valley). While the ST (Plains) and the ST (Hills) continue to cover the existing tribal communities residing in the plains and the hills, the ST (Valley) will cover the six communities Ahom, Chutia, Moran, Matak, Koch-Rajbongshi and Tea Tribes (Adivasis). The government move pleased these six communities but upset the existing tribals. The existing tribals believed that the decision would undermine their rights and weaken their political, educational and economic safeguards. Hundreds of protestors, mostly students, stormed the autonomous Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) secretariat in Kokrajhar and vandalised properties on Saturday. They demanded that the BTC administration revoke the no-objection certificate' (NOC) given to the government. Recently, BTC chief executive member Hagrama Mohilary stated that the NOC was given on the condition that ST status to the six communities must not hurt the interests of existing ST communities. Leaders of tribal organisations burnt copies of the GoM report in Guwahati on Sunday. They would repeat this act in other parts of the state on Monday. Protesters opposing ST status for six communities vandalise Assam's Bodoland council secretariat All Bodo Students Union president Dipen Boro said Assams existing 45 lakh tribals would be lost if two crore advanced people were imposed on us. We reject the GoM report, he said. Tribal leader Aditya Khaklari echoed a similar sentiment. You cannot differentiate the tribals. The government decision will affect the existing tribals, he said. The GoM report said the three-fold structure would allow reservations in Parliament, legislative Assembly, and local bodies, to be reorganised without reducing the current entitlements of ST (Plains) and ST (Hills) communities. However, to achieve this, Parliament must enact special legislation to give the three-fold reservation statutory endorsement. The Government of Assam will request the Government of India to provide statutory recognition of the three-tier classification of the Scheduled Tribes of Assam, the report said. This arrangement, the report added, will be in tune with the resolution of the Assam Assembly that the six communities be recognised as STs without affecting the rights and privileges of the present tribal communities. ST (Valley) will be the Scheduled Tribe for all purposes except that it will not affect the rights and privileges enjoyed by the present tribal communities, the report said. According to the GoM recommendations, the ST (Valley) category will have separate reservation quotas, with distinct rosters and vacancy registers for all state government recruitments and educational institutions. Existing ST (Plains) and ST (Hills) quotas will remain fully protected, the report further stated.

Assam pushes back 11 infiltrators, says Chief Minister

Himanta Biswa Sarma praises Assam Police after midnight operation on Bangladesh border

Manipur's Chandel steps up online biometric checks as illegal immigrants detected in border areas

Chandel district in Manipur is detecting illegal immigrants, prompting the District Administration to organize training for police on operating biometric machines for mandatory online registration before deportation. Challenges with internet connectivity in border areas are being addressed with assistance from the Assam Rifles to ensure timely completion of the process.

CAG terms Assam budget 2023-24 unrealistic; questions excessive supplementary grants

The report further pointed out that supplementary grants of a total of 30,210.86 crore were approved by the legislature for 2023-24, whereas audit analysis of utilisation of these grants showed that only 74.19% of it was required.

CAG terms Assam budget 2023-24 'unrealistic'; questions excessive supplementary grants

The CAG has criticized the Assam government's 2023-24 budget assumptions as unrealistic and overestimated, noting significant savings due to unspent allocated funds. The report also highlighted the non-submission of crucial Utilisation Certificates and annual accounts by various autonomous councils and bodies, impacting financial accountability.

Assams 2023-24 budget unrealistic, overestimated, says CAG; questions excessive supplementary grants

GUWAHATI: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has termed the Assam government budgetary assumptions for 2023-24 unrealistic and overestimated, pointing out that in several cases supplementary grants were approved where expenditure of the original allotted funds was not even done. It also highlighted non-submission of Utilisation Certificates (UCs) and annual accounts of several autonomous councils and other bodies. The CAG report on state finances for 2023-24, laid in the Assembly on Saturday, said the budgetary assumptions of the state government continued to be unrealistic and overestimated during the fiscal year, as it incurred an expenditure of Rs 1,39,449.66 crore against grants and appropriations of Rs 1,69,966.13 crore, resulting in overall savings of Rs 30,516.47 crore. These savings stood at 17.95 per cent of total grants and appropriations made for the year. The report said that he savings were notional, as the funds were not actually available for expenditure, since the actual receipts were Rs 1,38,830.79 crore against the estimated Rs 1,65,215.70 crore. Out of the total savings, only 0.35 per cent (amounting to Rs 107.08 crore) was surrendered, which deprived the other departments from utilising the amount, indicating poor financial management. In its recommendations, the CAG said the state government may formulate a realistic budget based on reliable assumptions of likely resource mobilisation, the assessed needs of the departments and their capacity to utilise the allocated resources so as to avoid inflated budgeting without corresponding to the available resources. It also said that the Finance department may review the departments having persistent savings for realistic budget allocation and monitoring of expenditure. The report further pointed out that supplementary grants of a total of Rs 30,210.86 crore were approved by the legislature for 2023-24, whereas audit analysis of utilisation of these grants showed that only 74.19 per cent of it was required. Seeking supplementary grants without a requirement is indicative of poor budgetary management by the state government. Further, it is also clear that there is an absence of allocative efficiency and utilisation efficiency by departments, which led to excess expenditure in some grants and savings in others, it noted. The CAG report further said that 6,335 UCs aggregating to Rs 18,669.55 crore during the period 2005-06 to 2022-23 have not been submitted. In the absence of the UCs, it could not be ascertained whether the funds were utilised for the purposes for which those were given. Till March 31, 2024, there were 485 annual accounts of 75 autonomous councils, development councils and government bodies, and 245 annual accounts of 39 PSUs (due up to 2023-24) pending for submission to the CAG for audit. It impacted effective budgetary management and diluted accountability of these bodies, the CAG report added.

Assam Assembly passes 6 education bills amid opposition walkout

Assam Assembly passed six education bills amidst opposition walkout. Legislators protested alleged ruling party members entering the House after voting doors were closed. Amendments concerning teacher provincialisation, enrollment criteria, and madrassa inclusion were rejected, leading to the walkout. The bills, including those for Azim Premji University and NERIM University, were passed.

ST status for six communities: Group of ministers suggests three-fold classification

GUWAHATI: An interim report of a Group of Ministers (GoM) in Assam recommended a three-tier classification of Scheduled Tribes ST (Plains), ST (Hills) and ST (Valley). While the ST (Plains) and the ST (Hills) continue to cover the existing tribal communities residing in the plains and hills, the ST (Valley) will cover six communities such as Ahoms, Chutias, Morans, Mataks, Koch-Rajbongshis and Tea Tribes (Adivasis). The recommendation was made in light of the ST status demand by the six communities. Tribal Affairs (Plains) Minister Ranoj Pegu, who headed the three-member GoM, laid the report in the Assembly. The report said the three-fold structure would allow reservations in Parliament, Legislative Assembly, and local bodies to be reorganised without reducing the current entitlements of ST (Plains) and ST (Hills) communities. However, to achieve this, Parliament must enact special legislation to give the three-fold reservation statutory endorsement. The Government of Assam will request the Government of India to provide statutory recognition of the three-tier classification of the Scheduled Tribes of Assam, the report said. Protesters opposing ST status for six communities vandalise Assam's Bodoland council secretariat This arrangement will be in tune with the resolution of the Assam Assembly that the six communities be recognised as STs without affecting the rights and privileges of the present tribal communities. ST (Valley) will be the Scheduled Tribe for all purposes except that it will not affect the rights and privileges enjoyed by the present tribal communities. The GoM further recommends that Lok Sabha constituencies covering the Sixth Schedule areas be permanently reserved for the existing STs through a Constitutional amendment, so that these seats remain reserved regardless of future delimitation exercises... For ST (Valley), additional seats will be reserved in Parliament as the number of reservations will automatically increase in view of the fact that a large number of people will now be recognised as Scheduled Tribes in the state of Assam, the report said. According to the GoM recommendations, the ST (Valley) category will have separate reservation quotas, with distinct rosters and vacancy registers for all state government recruitments and educational institutions. Existing ST (Plains) and ST (Hills) quotas will remain fully protected, the report said.