Delhi-NCR likely to witness light rain, strong winds; AQI remains moderate to poor
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) The plains of North India, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana, may experience light rain, overcast skies, and strong winds over the next few days as weather conditions change amid the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon. Cyclonic activity associated with the retreating monsoon is expected to bring heavy rainfall over the next three days, particularly across Uttarakhand, Bihar and Jharkhand. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued rain alerts for 14 states, warning of heavy showers in several regions. The effects of the retreating monsoon are likely to be felt across West Bengal, Bihar and Jharkhand over the next three to four days. Meanwhile, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are expected to receive heavy rainfall between October 9 and 11. Delhi, Punjab and Haryana are likely to witness cloudy skies and light rain till October 14. Western and eastern Uttar Pradesh may receive rainfall from October 9 to 11. Light rain is expected in eastern Rajasthan on October 12, while Delhi-NCR may experience light showers accompanied by strong winds on October 10 and 11. Western Rajasthan is also likely to witness strong winds on October 11. According to the IMD, Uttarakhand is likely to receive heavy rainfall till October 14, while Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh may experience heavy showers on Friday and Saturday and again on October 13 and 14. In Uttarakhand, districts including Pithoragarh, Chamoli and Rudraprayag have been placed under a heavy rain alert. The department has advised pilgrims undertaking the Char Dham Yatra, particularly those visiting Kedarnath and Badrinath, to remain vigilant. In Himachal Pradesh, Chamba, Kullu, Manali and Shimla are likely to receive rainfall on October 13 and 14. Jammu and Kashmir may also witness significant weather changes, with thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds forecast in areas including Doda, Pulwama, Anantnag, Poonch, Udhampur and Srinagar. Bihar and Jharkhand are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall in some areas till October 11. Patna, Ranchi and Dhanbad are among the places where thunderstorms and lightning are possible. The IMD has also warned of heavy rainfall in Bihar and the Gangetic plains of West Bengal. Rainfall is expected to continue in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram and Tripura until October 14. Eastern Madhya Pradesh may receive rain till October 11, while Chhattisgarh is likely to witness showers on October 14. Rewa, Satna and Shahdol in eastern Madhya Pradesh may experience rainfall accompanied by winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality remained in the moderate to poor categories, with monitoring stations recording varying levels of pollution. Dwarka Sector 8 recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 231, followed by R.K. Puram at 219, Punjabi Bagh at 211, Narela at 210, and Pusa and NSUT Jaffarpur at 203 each. Other stations, including Burari, Badarpur, Mandir Marg, Aya Nagar, CRRI Mathura Road, Chandni Chowk, JNU, Burari Crossing, Ashok Vihar, Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, Jahangirpuri and Rohini, recorded AQI readings ranging from 115 to 198.
UP Education Sector Recruitment: 17,059 Posts To Be Filled, Exams In November, December
The Uttar Pradesh plans to fill 17,059 education sector-posts, including assistant teachers, lecturers, principals and assistant professors, with recruitment exam scheduled to be held in November-December 2026.
Uttar Pradesh Transforms Healthcare Landscape: CM Yogi Adityanath Highlights Progress
CM Yogi Adityanath praises the transformation of Uttar Pradeshs healthcare, citing increased medical colleges and improved health programs. Uttar Pradesh Transforms Healthcare Landscape: CM Yogi Adityanath Highlights Progress
Uttar Pradesh Police Appoints 470 Athletes as New Recruits
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath hands appointment letters to 470 athletes, emphasizing hard work over government favor. Uttar Pradesh Police Appoints 470 Athletes as New Recruits
Congress Strengthens Its Position in Uttar Pradesh Ahead of Elections with High-Profile Joiners
Congress welcomes prominent leaders from various parties, boosting its presence in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Congress Strengthens Its Position in Uttar Pradesh Ahead of Elections with High-Profile Joiners
Shops to remain shut on oct 13
50-year-old Homeguard hit by a vehicle, dies
30 vegetable shops gutted in suspected arson at Jhansi mandi
ECI approves 353 polling stns for Allahabad-Jhansi graduates' seat
50-yr-old woman found dead outside CHC; cardiac arrest suspected
82-year-old found hanging from tree after dispute with wife
Speeding loader kills 65-yr-old man in Kanpur
FSDA team conducts raids, seizes oil & edible fat
Rs 5.74 crore tourism push for 4 ancient Lord Shiv temples
Lekhpal held taking 15K bribe in Lalitpur
Woman dies by suicide in Kanpur
Robber injured, arrested with two aides in police encounter
Portion of bldg at PMC zonal office collapses, man dies
Prayagraj to host philatelic expo after 11-year gap
SP workers stage protest, demand CECs removal
AU Prof to present Rajasthan desert ecology study at US conference
PDA prepares DPR for Civil Lines parking, beautification plan
Dengue prevention measures intensified as cases rise
Woman was major, aware of her actions: HC overturns conviction in 38-yr-old case
HC reserves verdict on journalists plea challenging NSA detention
Survey finds chromium contamination up to 59 times limit near Chakeri Airport
Two siblings arrested for duping people on PM Awas promise
Morning drizzle cools weather in Kanpur
DM conducts late-night sanitation inspection
17 in fray for Gorakhpur-Faizabad Teachers MLC seat
Nishad Party protests over remarks against Sanjay Nishad
Assets worth Rs 5.32cr frozen in Sonbhadras anti-drug crackdown
Timely vaccination vital in preventing HPV infection
Cholapur CHC feted for Ayushman Bharat Performance
Ayodhya student to take Dharma-Yuddha research to Oxford
Dont divide youth as alpha, beta, gamma: Nitin Nabin in Varanasi
UPESSC announces over 17,000 posts in education dept
Mobile snatching for girlfriends gifts lands two in police net in Gorakhpur
NER steps up drinking water quality checks
FIR against 8 named, 400 unknown persons after INDIA bloc protest scuffle in Mau
Tanker carrying 24,000 litres of diesel overturns in Sonbhadra, locals rush to collect spill
Dating app trap: Three held for assaulting man, extorting 10k
INDIA bloc steps up anti-EC protest, BJP accuses Opposition of targeting institutions (Lead)
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) The Opposition continued its protest in Delhi for the third consecutive day on Thursday, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar and opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and MPs of the Opposition INDIA bloc first gathered for lunch at the Connaught Place in the national capital before travelling by buses to Rajghat. Heavy security arrangements were put in place in view of the protest. The opposition leaders had to wait for nearly an hour before being allowed inside Rajghat, where they paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. Earlier, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had said that the leaders would pray to Mahatma Gandhi for wisdom for the Union government and urge it not to take away people's right to vote. While Wednesday's destination was Jantar Mantar, the leaders headed to Rajghat on Thursday. Earlier, the Opposition had also taken out a march from Parliament to the Election Commission. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said the protest would continue until their demand for the Chief Election Commissioner's resignation was met. Even as Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a sit-in at Rajghat, it drew a sharp counterattack from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused the Opposition of attempting to pressure constitutional institutions. The Rajghat protest marked the third consecutive day of demonstrations by opposition parties in the national capital. The INDIA bloc has accused the Election Commission of irregularities in the electoral process and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Election Commission and the BJP have rejected the allegations. CPI-M MP John Brittas said the Opposition's agitation would continue until CEC Gyanesh Kumar resigns. Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi said the country was united in seeking the CEC's resignation and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to respond to the concerns being raised by the Opposition. The INDIA bloc has also sought a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu amid the ongoing standoff. Congress sources said the Opposition was yet to receive a response from Rashtrapati Bhavan. Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K.C. Venugopal said the INDIA bloc had first sought an appointment on October 2 and subsequently submitted the names of participating leaders. The leaders had sought a meeting on October 7, 8 or 9. The Opposition is considering further options as it seeks to maintain pressure on the Union government and the poll panel. Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also arrived in Delhi as opposition parties prepared to intensify their mobilisation. The BJP, however, questioned the rationale behind the protests. Union Minister Krishan Pal Gurjar said that the SIR issue is already before the Supreme Court and accused the Opposition of attempting to create an atmosphere of anarchy. He said people had lost faith in the Opposition. BJP leader Pradeep Bhandari also criticised Rahul Gandhi's street protests ahead of the Supreme Court hearing, alleging that the Congress was seeking to pressure constitutional institutions and undermine the credibility of the judiciary through demonstrations. The political exchange also drew criticism from Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, who contrasted the Congress-led protests with Mahatma Gandhi's movements. Maurya said Gandhi's campaigns always maintained dignity and avoided confrontation, while alleging that recent protests involving Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had witnessed scuffles and a disregard for decorum.
States welcome GST reforms, focus on ease of doing business
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) States have welcomed the decisions taken at the 57th meeting of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council on Thursday, describing the latest reforms as an important step towards simplifying the tax regime, easing compliance and addressing the concerns faced by businesses and taxpayers. The meeting, which focused largely on procedural and structural reforms, drew positive reactions from finance ministers and chief ministers of several states, who said the changes would make the GST framework more efficient while improving ease of doing business. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said one of the key strengths of the GST Council is that it brings states together to discuss ways to make the tax framework simpler and provide greater convenience to citizens. She said the meeting also focused on improving the implementation of GST and making the system more effective for taxpayers. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also welcomed the reforms, saying the measures would help reduce difficulties faced by people and make the overall GST system more convenient. West Bengal Finance Minister Swapan Dasgupta said GST has remained beneficial for states such as West Bengal, with a significant share of the state's revenue coming from the tax. He said the latest structural reforms placed considerable emphasis on rationalising various provisions and strengthening the ease of doing business. Such measures, he added, would provide long-term benefits to states by making the system easier to operate. Dasgupta also acknowledged that ensuring compliance with GST rules had often been a challenge for the state, but said awareness around compliance had improved. He described the Council's deliberations as highly positive. Uttar Pradesh Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna said the GST Council has consistently served as an appropriate forum for addressing grievances raised by businesses and simplifying procedures. He praised the efforts of the Central government and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to make the GST system more taxpayer-friendly and protect businesses from unnecessary difficulties. Khanna also recalled the rate rationalisation undertaken at the September 3 meeting, saying it had provided relief to the common people without compromising government revenues. He said the latest meeting shifted the focus towards easing procedures for businesses, particularly in areas where taxpayers had faced difficulties. From registration to refunds, wherever businesses were facing problems, the processes have now been simplified, Khanna said. He described the measures as a major Diwali gift for the business community and welcomed the steps aimed at providing relief from unnecessary arrests under the GST law. Khanna said the government's approach had been to first provide relief to consumers through rate rationalisation and subsequently address the difficulties faced by businesses through procedural reforms.
UP AAP womens wing chief, BSP leader join Congress
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Oct 8 (IANS) Ahead of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, several leaders and social workers from different political parties joined the Congress on Thursday, said a party leader. Among those who joined the party were Neelam Yadav, Uttar Pradesh president of the Aam Aadmi Partys womens wing and a former national executive member; former Bahujan Samaj Party candidate from Ghaziabad Parmanand Garg; former Government of India official Durga Prasad; and Haji Imamuddin Ansari, a social worker and representative of the weavers community from Noorpur in Bijnor. Uttar Pradesh Congress in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam formally inducted the leaders into the party, said a party statement. Welcoming the new entrants, Gautam said people were joining the Congress in large numbers every day, mentioning that they were fed up with the misrule of the BJP. He said the Congress was the only party fighting under the leadership of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, along with the INDIA bloc, to protect the countrys democracy and Constitution. Gautam said that the country was facing a situation akin to dictatorship and an undeclared Emergency. Referring to protests at Jantar Mantar, he also alleged that police directions requiring applications to be submitted 10 days in advance for demonstrations violated citizens fundamental rights and the constitutional freedom of speech and expression. On Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Congress president Aradhana Misra Mona hinted at a major organisational shake-up ahead of next year's Assembly elections with an evident Brahmin outreach. If the Congress attempts to rebuild its fortunes in Uttar Pradesh through a targeted Brahmin outreach, it would be reinventing the strategy that its leadership embraced a decade ago under the reported guidance of the then political strategist Prashant Kishor. Ahead of the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly election, the Congress had brought in Kishor to draft its revival strategy. Reports had said that the poll consultant favoured projecting a prominent Brahmin face as the party's Chief Ministerial candidate, saying that Congress could attempt to reconnect with this category, once among its most loyal social constituencies. The choice had then reportedly been Sheila Dikshit -- a three-term Chief Minister of Delhi, daughter-in-law of Uttar Pradesh's veteran Congress leader Uma Shankar Dikshit -- explicitly linked to her Brahmin identity and perceived appeal among upper-caste voters. Kishor's strategy was apparently based on the assumption that Brahmins, estimated at around 10 to 12 per cent of Uttar Pradesh's electorate, remained one of the few communities where Congress might recover lost ground. The experiment failed, and the Congress won only seven seats in the election, contesting 114 among a total of 403 Assembly constituencies.
Muzaffarnagar's Urban Transformation: How Numax City is Shaping a New-Age Integrated Township
Muzaffarnagar (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 8: Muzaffarnagar is witnessing a gradual transformation in its urban and real estate landscape, driven by improving connectivity, changing consumer aspirations and the growing demand for organised, well-planned communities. As the city and surrounding regions evolve, integrated developments that bring residential, commercial, lifestyle and social infrastructure together are emerging as an important part of this transformation. At the centre of this shift is Numax City Muzaffarnagar, a 100-acre integrated township located along the Delhi-Dehradun Highway.
School Holiday Tomorrow: October 9 will see schools across India operating as usual, with no national holiday declared. Specific state announcements affirm that areas such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal will remain open for education. However, weather conditions may influence potential closures, making it essential for parents to stay informed through school communications and local advisories to ensure their childrens safety in unpredictable weather.
Three rebel Samajwadi Party (SP) MLAs are set to formally join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Amethi's Gauriganj on October 14, giving SP chief Akhilesh Yadav a fresh political challenge ahead of the upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections . The three MLAs are Rakesh Pratap Singh, Abhay Singh and Vinod Chaturvedi. As per information, all three are scheduled to officially join the BJP at a grand programme to be organised in Gauriganj. The three leaders had also cross-voted during the last Rajya Sabha election. Their formal induction into the BJP is now being seen as a significant development ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.
Vande Bharat hits cow on tracks in Lucknow, suffers front-end damage; train delayed by 35min
Voice that emerged 50 years ago: CM Yogi pays tribute to Ram Vilas Paswan on his death anniversary
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday paid tribute to former Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party founder Ram Vilas Paswan on his death anniversary and said his son Chirag Paswan was carrying forward his mission. Yogi Adityanath said Paswan's death anniversary was being observed as a national event in Bihar and recalled his contribution to public life and his commitment to the principles he espoused. CM said, Today, his (Ram Vilas Paswan) death anniversary is being observed as a national event in Bihar. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Government of Bihar for this. He was a voice that emerged 50 years ago, driven by a firm resolve; he lived his life true to the words he spoke. While we deeply feel the absence of the late Ram Vilas Paswan, I find satisfaction in the fact that his son, Chirag Paswan, is tirelessly carrying forward his mission.
How Uttar Pradesh Turned into an IT and Semiconductor Manufacturing Powerhouse
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with Akie Abe, wife of late Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in New Delhi on Thursday and expressed appreciation for her continued association with India. PM Modi described Shinzo Abe as a dear friend and a visionary leader who played a defining role in elevating bilateral ties to new heights. He welcomed the inauguration of the Abe Memorial Corridor at the Rudraksh Convention Centre in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi, calling it as a fitting tribute to Shinzo Abe's lasting contribution to ties between India and Japan. Pleased to meet Mrs. Akie Abe, wife of late former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Deeply value her enduring association with India. Abe San was a dear friend and a visionary leader who played a defining role in elevating India-Japan relations to new heights, PM Modi posted on X. The inauguration of the Abe Memorial Corridor at the Rudraksh Convention Centre in Varanasi yesterday is a fitting tribute to his lasting contribution to India-Japan friendship, he added. The 'Abe Memorial Corridor', a memorial site for India-Japan friendship and cultural ties, was inaugurated in Varanasi on Wednesday in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Akie Abe. Yogi Adityanath described the Abe Memorial Corridor as a living symbol of Shinzo Abe's contributions to strengthening the historical, cultural, and diplomatic relations between India and Japan. Today, in the dignified presence of Mrs. Akie Abe, the wife of the late former Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. Shinzo Abe, the 'Abe Memorial Corridor' a vibrant memorial site for India-Japan friendship and cultural ties was inaugurated in Varanasi, Yogi Adityanath posted on X. This Memorial Corridor is a living symbol of Mr. Shinzo Abe's contributions to strengthening the historical, cultural, and diplomatic relations between India and Japan. On behalf of the Hon'ble Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and 140 crore Indians, humble tributes to him, he added. Former Japanese PM Abe had made immense contributions to elevate India-Japan relations to the level of a Special Strategic and Global Partnership. His association with PM Modi went back many years, having known the Indian PM since his long stint as Gujarat Chief Minister. India had announced a one-day national mourning as a mark of respect for PM Abe, who was shot dead while making a campaign speech in Japan's Nara on July 8, 2022. Following Abe's death, PM Modi, in an emotional message, expressed grief and shock at the ragic demise of one of his dearest friends, and also attended the state funeral of the late leader. He called Abe a owering global statesman, an outstanding leader, and a remarkable administrator who dedicated his life to making Japan and the world a better place.
Congress should introspect instead of blaming EC for poll defeats: MP CM
Digital Desk | Bhopal, Oct 8 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Thursday criticised the Congress for blaming the Election Commission for its electoral setbacks, saying the party should instead introspect on its organisation and leadership. Yadav's remarks came as the Madhya Pradesh Congress prepared to hold a foot march in Bhopal in support of the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, amid an intensifying Opposition campaign against the Election Commission in New Delhi. The Chief Minister said the Congress had itself benefited from the electoral process that it was now questioning, pointing to its governments in Kerala and Himachal Pradesh. If there is distrust in the Election Commissions process, then what is the meaning of Congress victory in Kerala? Mohan Yadav said. He is on a visit to Mumbai. Talking to the media, Yadav said Congress should examine why its political base had weakened in several states instead of holding the poll panel responsible for repeated electoral defeats. Yadav referred to Congress's prolonged absence from power in West Bengal and its weak position in Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, saying these issues required introspection within the party. Congress should introspect and strengthen its organisation instead of blaming the Election Commission for every defeat, he said. He said India was the world's largest democracy and elections were conducted through a constitutional framework under the Election Commission. According to Yadav, electoral defeats should not be used as a reason to question constitutional institutions. The Chief Minister also said Rahul Gandhi should introspect on the Congress's electoral performance and leadership. The remarks came amid protests by Congress and other Opposition parties against the Election Commission over electoral rolls and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. On October 6, Gandhi, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and several INDIA bloc leaders were detained by police during a march towards the Election Commission office in New Delhi. The Opposition leaders were protesting over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and demanding accountability from the poll panel. On October 7, Rahul Gandhi and other Opposition MPs were again detained during a protest in Delhi after they attempted to march towards Jantar Mantar. The Opposition has accused the Election Commission of irregularities in the electoral-roll revision process and has demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. In Bhopal, state Congress president Jitu Patwari and Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar are scheduled to lead a foot march at 5 p.m. on Thursday in solidarity with Gandhi. The state Congress had earlier staged a protest outside the Chief Electoral Officer's office in Bhopal following Gandhi's detention in Delhi on October 6.
Nine Arrested In Disability Certificate Forgery Racket
Delhi Police have busted a major interstate racket involved in forging disability certificates to facilitate admissions under the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) category. Nine individuals have been apprehended, and 27 fake certificates were recovered. The network allegedly manipulated Aadhaar addresses using AI tools and involved education consultants and government employees across Uttar Pradesh.
iPhone burst in pocket, injured thumb; court orders Apple to replace it, pay Rs 36,139
A district consumer commission in Uttar Pradesh found Apple India liable for a defective iPhone incident. The phone burst in a consumers pocket, injuring his thumb and damaging his personal photos. Following medical treatment, the commission ordered compensation for the consumers treatment expenses and directed a refund or replacement. Apple and the local seller failed to dispute the claims presented during the hearings.
'Merit, Recognition Are Sporting Culture Of New UP': Yogi Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that opening doors to government service for sportspersons is a testimony to UP's transformation.
Taj Hotels' parent co inks 232-key Gateway hotel in Agra
Indian Hotels Company has announced plans for a 232-key Gateway hotel in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. This new hotel represents a collaboration with Real Estate and Development. Agra is becoming a vital urban center due to infrastructure projects and IT parks. IHCL aims to expand its presence in Uttar Pradesh, with a total of 64 hotels planned. This includes 27 hotels currently under development across the state.
Arrest Made Over Fake SSB Camp Explosion Video
A man named Fayaz Ahmad has been arrested in Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh, for allegedly creating and sharing a digitally edited video on social media that depicted a fake explosion at a Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) camp along the India-Nepal border. The video, which targeted a sensitive security installation, led to an investigation and his subsequent arrest for breach of peace.
The Shinzo Abe Memorial Corridor was opened jointly by Abe and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the Rudraksh Convention Centre.
Which City Is Known As The Guava Capital Of India?
Famous for its distinctive guava varieties, this Uttar Pradesh city has a fruit-growing legacy that goes back generations.
ISI's 2027 assembly election plot: UP terror, Punjab drugs and Manipur unrest
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) launched a multi-state destabilisation plot targeting Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Manipur in the run-up to the 2027 assembly elections, intelligence agencies have warned. Seven key states, namely Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur and Goa, would go to the polls between February and March next year. The intelligence agencies have drawn up a list of states that are vulnerable during the elections or in the run-up to them. The ISI has set its eyes particularly on Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Manipur. An Intelligence Bureau official said that these three states are extremely vulnerable to ISI-driven activities. In Uttar Pradesh, the focus will be on terror attacks and espionage activities. In Punjab, it will be arms and narcotics smuggling, besides random grenade attacks. In Manipur, the attempts will be aimed at creating widespread unrest in the state ahead of the elections, the IB official said. This plan was set in motion almost a year back, when the ISI roped in Shahzad Bhatti to recruit Indian youths. His focus was pan-India, and he managed to recruit youths for a small sum of money. He would instruct these recruits to carry out hit jobs, install CCTV cameras in sensitive and crowded locations, carry out surveillance for terror attacks, indulge in narcotics smuggling and counterfeiting of Indian currency, the official said. The Bhatti network focused heavily on the election-bound states. Recruitment was high in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, investigators say. These recruits were planning strikes in the run-up and also during the elections. In states like UP, the focus was mainly on carrying out big-ticket attacks. While carrying out surveillance on sensitive locations, there was equal emphasis on crowded locations such as railway stations and bus stands too. This makes it amply clear that the Bhatti network was aiming at big attacks in the state. Another official said that it is not just the Bhatti gang that was focusing on the election-bound states; there are multiple players on the payrolls of the ISI who have been on the job. In Punjab, the brief is clear, and that is to ramp up narcotics smuggling and arms trade. The ISI-backed networks have been told to dump as much ammunition and narcotics into the state ahead of the elections, the official said. While the dumping of drugs and arms has been underway, the state of Punjab has also been witnessing stray grenade attacks and vandalism by pro-Khalistan operatives, the official said. There are two objectives behind these stray incidents of violence. This is meant to promote the Khalistan movement, but more importantly, to keep the security agencies busy so that the narcotics and arms trade goes on smoothly without coming under the radar, the official said. While Punjab and Uttar Pradesh remain states of concern, security agencies are particularly worried about Manipur. Multiple players are believed to have an interest in triggering widespread unrest in the state. The ethnic violence that erupted in 2023 has subsided in intensity, but several issues linked to the conflict remain unresolved. Since the violence broke out, the Central government has been exploring various measures to restore lasting peace in Manipur. Compared with the situation in 2023, the nature of the conflict has changed, with the state now facing what security officials describe as a low-intensity crisis. Another official said that the situation does remain tense and these vested interest groups would look to fuel speculation and run fake narratives so that Manipur returns to its 2023 scenario. While it is easiest for these ISI-backed groups to fuel tensions in Manipur at the moment, the larger game is to ensure that violence spreads across the North-eastern region The ISI has been working alongside some of its proxies both in Bangladesh and India to fuel tensions during election year in Manipur, with the hope that it spreads and the entire Northeast burns, an official said.
23,000 Personnel, Barricading: Delhi Preps For CJP's Saturday Protest
All the neighbouring states, including Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, have been asked to remain alert during the protests.
From neighbourhood pujas to grand spectacles: How Lucknows Durga Puja pandals are scaling up
IAF promotes Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam through global aid missions: Air Chief
Indian Air Force Day celebrations at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, IAF Chief A.P. Singh said the IAFs humanitarian work reflects the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or the belief that the world is one family
UP Moradabad Anganwadi Worker Recruitment 2026
Uttar Pradesh Moradabad Anganwadi has released Notification No. C-2639/Jila Karyakram Adhikar / 2026-27 for 51 vacancies, including Anganwadi Worker and Anganwadi_Worker posts. Eligible candidates can apply online at upanganwadibharti.in till 28 October 2026.
Three killed as man drives tractor into crowd in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor
The injured were taken to a community health centre, where Baburam and Udayveer died. Mahendra succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital, says Chandpur Circle Officer Des Deepak Singh
Anarchist mindset: Nitin Nabin hits out at Rahul Gandhi over protest against CEC
Digital Desk | Varanasi, Oct 8 (IANS) BJP national president Nitin Nabin on Thursday slammed Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, over protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, saying that if the Opposition has any courage, it should resign from the seats it won through elections conducted by the Election Commission of India. The remarks came after Rahul Gandhi led another protest towards Jantar Mantar on Wednesday. Rahul Gandhi, Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other Opposition MPs were detained by the Delhi Police after a bus carrying them was stopped near Janpath as INDIA bloc MPs sought to protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar. Speaking to reporters, Nitin Nabin said, I would say these are people with an anarchist mindset, who know only how to spread poison in society. After all, this very Election Commission conducted the elections in Kerala. It also conducted the elections in Tamil Nadu, where they came to power. If he has the courage, Rahul Gandhi should first resign. The public is fully watching the game he is playing. This Leader of Opposition is engaged in shielding infiltrators, he said. They are trying to take away the rights of the people. We are trying to give them their rights back. I believe that people who belong here have the right to the countrys resources, he added. Nabin also praised the Uttar Pradesh government for the arrangements at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. I belong to Bihar, and coming here to Varanasi is part of our traditions. I would say that the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has been constructed in a great way. The devotees also like it. It is a great experience. For this, I would like to congratulate PM Modi and CM Yogi, he said. The BJP national president offered prayers at the Baba Vishwanath Temple. He will interact with youths at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth and later hold a review meeting with party office-bearers on preparations for the upcoming elections at Gokul Dham.
PM Modi mourns Nana Patekars demise, hails his contribution to Hindi, Marathi cinema
New Delhi , October 8 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday condoled the demise of veteran actor Nana Patekar, describing him as an actor who possessed intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence and whose work would be remembered for generations. In a post on X, the PM said Patekar brought versatility and creativity to every role and was also admired for his frank and forthright views. Few actors possessed the intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence that Shri Nana Patekar Ji had. He brought remarkable versatility and creativity to every role and gave us characters that will be remembered for generations. He was also admired for his frank and forthright views, never hesitating to express what he believed in, Modi said. The Prime Minister said Patekars contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. Shri Nana Patekars contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. His passing leaves a deep void. My condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers. Om Shanti, he said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also mourned the demise of the veteran actor, remembering his contribution to Indian cinema and social causes. In a post on X, Yogi Adityanath described Patekars death as an irreplaceable loss to the world of art and praised his contribution to cinema and society. The demise of the renowned actor, powerful theatre artist, and sensitive social worker, Padma Shri Nana Patekar ji, is an irreplaceable loss to the world of art, Yogi said. He said Patekar enriched Indian cinema through his acting and expressed his commitment to society through his social concerns. May Lord Shri Ram grant a place at His divine feet to the departed soul and provide strength to the grieving family and admirers to bear this sorrow, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister added. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami also condoled Patekar's demise while remembering his powerful acting. We have received the extremely heartbreaking news of the demise of the renowned actor Nana Patekar ji. With his powerful acting and impactful dialogues, he carved a distinct identity in Indian cinema. His vibrant performances in various roles enriched Hindi cinema. His passing is an irreparable loss to the film and art world. We pray to God to grant the noble soul a place at His divine feet and provide strength to the grieving family and admirers to bear this sorrow, Dhami said on X. Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief over the actors demise and recalled his distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to portray complex characters. Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of veteran actor Nana Patekar. His distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to essay complex characters with ease have earned him a special place in Indian cinema, Patnaik said in a post on X. Patekar died at 5.20 am on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence, Dr Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, told ANI over the phone. According to Dr Salkar, Patekar suffered cardiac arrest at his residence, and CPR was administered for 45 minutes. He remained in asystole throughout the CPR. A medico-legal case (MLC) has been completed, while a post-mortem examination is required, the doctor said. Nana Patekar was one of the prominent actors in Hindi and Marathi cinema. He made his acting debut with the 1978 film Gaman and went on to earn praise for his performances in films including Parinda, Prahar, Angaar, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Khamoshi and Ab Tak Chhappan.In recent years, Patekar continued to work in films. He was part of Housefull 5, which starred Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh and others. Patekar, 75, also appeared as a police officer in Vishal Bhardwajs ORomeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri. He also had a cameo in Subedar, which stars Anil Kapoor and Radhika Madan.
India is proud of our air warriors: PM Modi on Indian Air Force Day
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 8 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended warm greetings to the air warriors on Indian Air Force Day, thanking them for serving the nation with dedication and praising their courage. He said that the country is proud of the Indian Air Force for protecting the skies. The Indian Air Force (IAF), the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, was officially established on October 8, 1932, as an auxiliary air force of British India. Created under British rule as an auxiliary air force, the IAF's primary mission is to secure Indian airspace and conduct aerial warfare during armed conflicts. The force has since evolved into one of the most formidable air powers in the world. Taking to X, PM Modi said, India is proud of our Air Warriors. On Air Force Day, we salute their courage and commitment to protect our skies! In a video posted on X, PM Modi said, I congratulate all the air warriors and their families from the bottom of my heart who have served the country. Things in the sky are always unpredictable; it is no surprise that by showcasing its power in the sky, the IAF has drawn the attention of every citizen and given a sense of security. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to social media and extended greetings to the Indian Air Force. Salutations to the Warriors of Our Skies on the glorious occasion of Indian Air Force Day, HM Shah said in a post on X. A legion of real-life bravehearts whose saga of invincible valour, laser-sharp precision and devastating striking capabilities is testified by the Earth and satellites in faraway space. Their patriotism and professionalism will continue to inspire generations long after the daydreams of India's enemies cease to exist. I bow to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation, he added. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, taking to X, said, From the infinite heights of the sky to the nation's borders, the Indian Air Force, the embodiment of valour, strength, and resolve, is the pride of us all. On the occasion of Indian Air Force Day, heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the brave air warriors of the Indian Air Force and their families, he added.
Lightning strike damages nose of aircraft en route from Patna to Lucknow; DGCA orders probe
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Oct 8 (IANS) An IndiGo aircraft flying from Patna to Lucknow made an emergency landing in the Uttar Pradesh capital after encountering severe weather and being struck by lightning, damaging the aircraft's nose. The aircraft, carrying 104 passengers and six crew members, landed safely at Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow, eight minutes ahead of its scheduled arrival time on Wednesday. All passengers and crew members were reported safe following the incident, reports NDTV. The aircraft was flying at an altitude of 17,000 feet when it was hit by lightning. It has since been grounded and will remain out of service until the necessary inspections and maintenance work are completed. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India's aviation regulator, has initiated a probe into the incident. The aircraft will be permitted to resume operations only after receiving the required regulatory clearance. According to an IndiGo spokesperson, flight 6E 625, operating from Patna to Lucknow on October 7, encountered unfavourable weather conditions, including a hailstorm during the landing phase, which caused damage to the aircraft's radome. The aircraft landed safely, and all customers disembarked at their destination, i.e. Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow, the spokesperson said. The airline said the relevant authorities were informed immediately after the incident and that the aircraft would undergo the necessary maintenance and inspection procedures before being cleared for further operations. The incident comes amid another recent case involving an IndiGo aircraft that suffered damage during landing at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport. Last month, an IndiGo flight operating from Guwahati to Bengaluru experienced a tail strike while landing at the Kempegowda International Airport. The aircraft was subsequently grounded following the incident. The airline had confirmed the incident and said that the A321neo aircraft had experienced what it described as an abnormal runway contact while landing amid gusty weather conditions. The aircraft was grounded following the occurrence as the airline and relevant authorities assessed the damage and carried out the required checks.
Nepali Woman Convicted in 2017 Opium Smuggling Case in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh
A Nepali woman has been sentenced to 12 years for opium smuggling in Bahraich, highlighting the ongoing fight against drug trafficking. Nepali Woman Convicted in 2017 Opium Smuggling Case in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh
CM Yogi Targets SP, Predicts 80-20 Split in Upcoming Elections
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath forecasts an 80% NDA and 20% PDA outcome in upcoming elections, criticizing the Samajwadi Party. CM Yogi Targets SP, Predicts 80-20 Split in Upcoming Elections
GDA plans Gurukul City in New Gorakhpur, project launch around Diwali
Vadnagar to Kashi bike yatra concludes, bikers felicitated by UP BJP chief
BHU workshop on liquid biopsy tech for cancer test
BHU hosts Natl Youth Parliament, over 500 students debate key issues
EVM charges resurface whenever Oppn fears defeat: Ravi Kishan
Friendship built on trust: Yogi recalls Modi-Abe bond at memorial opening
Himachal Pradesh delegation visits ISARC to explore climate-resilient innovations
Modi turned quake-hit Gujarat into model state, led Indias rise as global power: Yogi
Rain & winds bring pleasant change, disrupt normal life in city
CISF jawan died of head injury, says report; murder case filed
Japan ex-PM wife attends Namo book fest
IAF air show: Meat, fish sale banned in 20-30km radius of Kashi ghat to prevent bird hit
Two held with heroin worth 1 cr in Ghazipur
Abe would have wanted to return to Kashi: Japan ex-PMs wife
Young Woman Shot Dead in Jhansi Just Months Before Wedding
A 19-year-old woman was shot dead in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, just two months before her wedding, raising suspicions of unrequited love. Young Woman Shot Dead in Jhansi Just Months Before Wedding
RS polls: 8 BJP, two SP candidates set for unopposed win in UP
Eight BJP and two Samajwadi Party candidates are set to be elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Uttar Pradesh after the nomination papers of two independent candidates were rejected. This ensures all 10 available seats will be filled without a contest, with the BJP fielding new faces ahead of the 2027 assembly polls.
