India's first indigenous 700 MWe N-plant starts working at full capacity

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/E5eTglC

Adani stocks fall after new report, group denies charges

Stock prices of all Adani Group companies took a hit on Thursday after a collective of foreign journalists, backed by George Soros, published a report that alleged the group had, over several years, routed money to two foreign individuals to invest in its own stocks using Mauritius and Bermuda-based funds. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/E5eTglC

Opposition banking on big name, but has short vision: Rajnath Singh

Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said the opposition parties were banking on a big name for their grand alliance, but had a small vision. His statement came on the day the top functionaries of INDIA had the first of their two-day meeting in Mumbai. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/E5eTglC

Revise electoral rolls, poll panel tells Assam

The Election Commission (EC) has instructed the Assam election department to conduct a special summary revision of electoral rolls following the delimitation of assembly and Lok Sabha constituencies in the state. EC conducted the delimitation exercise and released the final report on August 11. Despite revising the names of one parliamentary and 19 assembly constituencies, the number of assembly and Lok Sabha seats remains at 126 and 14, respectively. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/E5eTglC

Reformation main aim of justice system: Bilkis case convict to SC

One of the 11 convicts, all of whom have been granted remission in the case of gang rape of Bilkis Bano and killing of 14 of her family members during the 2002 Gujarat riots, told the Supreme Court on Thursday that reformation is the main purpose of criminal justice system and that there was no error in the decision of the Gujarat government in granting them the same. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/E5eTglC

Neeraj Chopra finishes second in Zurich Diamond League

Newly-crowned world champion Neeraj Chopra was not at his best but still finished second with a final round throw of 85.71m in the men's javelin event of the Diamond League Meeting here on Thursday. The 25-year-old Chopra, also the reigning Olympic champion, produced three legal throws of 80.79m, 85.22m and 85.71m while the remaining three were fouls. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/E5eTglC

IAF erects air defence shield for Delhi-NCR for G20 summit

The IAF is going full steam ahead in making the airspace over the Delhi-National Capital Region as impregnable as possible, with fighter jets, surface-to-air missile systems, anti-drone systems, airborne early-warning and control systems (AEW&C) and other sensors being deployed for the G20 summit on September 9-10. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/E5eTglC

Judgments written by lawyers, delivered by courts: Ashok Gehlot

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot questioned the state of jurisprudence in the country on Wednesday, alleging that corruption had seeped so deep into the judicial system that “many lawyers write judgments and take them to courts, and the same judgments are delivered, be it the lower or upper judiciary”. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/YvhL0t3

Nat'l convener, PM face: What all may test INDIA's bonhomie at Mumbai meet

The first and the foremost challenge of the new opposition alliance would be to select a national convenor. This could be a tricky move as several leaders have played a key role in bringing the opposition parties on one platform. The meeting is also likely to discuss the seat-sharing formula as many allies at the national level are political adversaries in the states. However, the biggest issue that the opposition bloc faces is - who will be the prime ministerial candidate of the alliance. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/YvhL0t3

China releases map with Indian territories; absurd: Jaishankar

Foreign minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday slammed China for another act of cartographic aggression that saw Beijing again releasing a “standard” map of the country, which showed Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin in it, and said such absurd claims would not help China take over these territories. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/r0Ynolh

Domestic LPG cylinder price slashed by Rs 200 in steepest-ever cut

The government on Tuesday slashed the price of domestic LPG cylinders by Rs 200, the sharpest-ever reduction that will provide relief to more than 33 crore households amid high inflation, ahead of elections in five states, including politically crucial MP, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/r0Ynolh

Eye on Andhra polls, TDP chief backs caste census, freebies

With an eye on the assembly polls in Andhra Pradesh, which are to be held along with the Lok Sabha polls next year, former CM and TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday came out in support of “caste census”, saying it is essential to track and eradicate poverty. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/r0Ynolh

Govt to help kids rowing to school; Bombay HC takes note

Via Times of India https://ift.tt/r0Ynolh

INDIA bloc set to get coordination panel during its Mumbai meet

A coordination committee of the opposition INDIA bloc is set to be announced at the alliance’s meeting that will be held in Mumbai on August 31 and September 1, said Shiv Sena (UBT) members. The committee is likely to have prominent members from across the parties which are part of the alliance, and it will plan details for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/r0Ynolh

'Pulwama strike forced govt to decide on scrapping Article 370'

Stating that it was the jehadi terror attack at Pulwama in February 2019, claiming the lives of 40 CRPF jawans, which caused it to make up its mind to pull the plug on the special status for J&K and integrate the state fully into the Indian Union, the Centre on Monday lobbed the “violation of the Constitution” charge back into the court of the petitioners who have challenged the decision of August 5, 2019. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uJiS1qA

Worrying rainwater volume dip in 101 sub-basins: IMD

A recent India Meteorological Department evaluation shows a significant decrease in rainwater volume compared with the long-term average in various sub-basins across the country following a bad monsoon and impact of the El Nino phenomenon. The analysis of 101 sub-basins — situated within 27 major basins in India — points to a worrying decline in water volumes, ranging from -149 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) to -528 TMC compared to the established benchmarks. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uJiS1qA

Ambani succession plan picks up pace, children appointed to RIL board

Reliance Industries, India’s largest company in terms of market value, has appointed chairman and managing director Mukesh Ambani’s three children — Isha, Akash and Anant — to the board, an indication that they will eventually helm the oil-to-telecom conglomerate. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uJiS1qA

SC disposes of plea against Mathura demolition drive

The Supreme Court on Monday disposed of a plea filed against demolition drive near Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura to remove alleged encroachment on government land and refused to grant any protection to those removed from the land and asked them to raise their grievances before lower court where the suit is pending. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uJiS1qA

After successful Moon mission Chandrayaan-3, India to shoot for Sun on September 2

As Vikram and Pragyan, the Chandrayaan-3 lander and rover, continue to do science on the Moon, Isro has set the date for the launch of its solar mission — 11.50am, on September 2. The agency has completed the integration of the Aditya-L1 spacecraft — India’s first solar observatory mission — with its workhorse launch vehicle, the PSLV, at Sriharikota. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/uJiS1qA

Soon-to-wed couple, businessman killed in Mumbai hotel fire

A couple, who were soon to get married, and a businessman from Gujarat died while three others suffered injuries in a fire that broke out in a second-floor room at Hotel Galaxy located in Prabhat Colony at Santacruz (E) on Sunday afternoon. The three victims, who had come from Ahmedabad and were flying to Nairobi, were accommodated in the ground-plus four-storey hotel by the airlines as their flight was rescheduled. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/3KfgF2c

Chandrayaan-3 rover surmounts first lunar obstacle

Chandrayaan-3 rover Pragyan has negotiated its first surface obstacle — a 100mm lunar crater — to the relief of the Isro control room back home that will have to continue guiding and monitoring it through several such challenges. In his first full-fledged interaction since lander Vikram's precision landing and the deployment of the rover, Chandrayaan-3 project director said that the progress of the scientific experiments infused confidence about the possibility of good outcomes. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/3KfgF2c

In investment pitch, PM invokes ‘mutual trust’, takes aim at China

PM Modi invoked “mutual trust” and “democratic values” to pitch for investments in India, as he cited disruptions in the supply chain during Covid to hit out at China. “A profitable market can be sustained when there is a balance in interests of producers and consumers. Treating other countries only as a market will never work. It will harm producing countries sooner or later. Making everyone equal partners in progress is the way forward,” he said at B20 meet. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/3KfgF2c

Emergency medical department not mandatory, as per NMC

The National Medical Commission has dropped the requirement for medical colleges to have an emergency medicine department. This was done despite a country-wide study showing that a dedicated emergency department could save several thousand lives. Experts TOI spoke to said the decision rolls the clock back on India’s emergency care system. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FZixYjs

'Liability for kid’s maintenance mother’s too, not just dad’s'

A single bench of Justice Pankaj Purohit of the Uttarakhand high court on Friday delivered what was termed by judicial watchers ‘a landmark judgment’ that specified that both parents were liable for maintenance of a child, and not just the father. The judgment drew upon the recent amendment to Section 125 of the CrPC (relating to maintenance of wives, children and parents) and interpretation of the word ‘person’ to mean both genders. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FZixYjs

INDIA's Mumbai meet comes amid Pawar stand uncertainty

An 11-member coordination committee will be finalised at the meeting of the opposition INDIA alliance on September 1. The panel, comprising members of the principal parties, is expected to run the affairs of the bloc that is looking to challenge BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FZixYjs

Kids opt for rowing rafts, fight snakes to reach school

School children need to take flimsy rafts and fight off water snakes to make it to school every day across the reservoir of one of Maharashtra’s largest dams, making their parents wonder in Chandrayaan-3’s glory season if demanding a bridge for their hamlet is asking for the moon. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FZixYjs

Train fire in Madurai claims 9 lives: Smuggled gas stove used, coal & firewood found in coach

Tragedy struck as a private train coach caught fire in the early hours of Saturday, resulting in the deaths of nine pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh at a railway yard about 1km from Madurai junction in Tamil Nadu. Railway authorities said the fire is suspected to have originated from a gas cylinder, smuggled into the coach for cooking meals. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FZixYjs

Both kids in custody of Australia, distraught NRI techie mom kills self

A 45-year-old NRI mother and techie fighting to regain custody of her ailing teenage son and daughter from the Australian authorities died by suicide in her native Belagavi district of Karnataka after her repeated attempts to bring them to India were foiled by strict laws in that country, police said. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/6BctHlx

Nuh tense again: Internet suspended; outfits defiant on yatra

Internet and bulk SMS services were suspended once again in Nuh after right-wing outfits pledged to bring out a Brij Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra on August 28 since the previous one was disrupted because of the communal clash on July 31. Officials said the internet shutdown, which came into force on Friday evening, would continue till August 29. Haryana had suspended internet and SMS services in Nuh, besides imposing a curfew, after the July 31 clash, and restored it only on August 11. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/6BctHlx

India, Greece elevate ties to a strategic partnership

PM Modi's visit to Greece, the first by an Indian PM in 40 years, saw the two nations upgrading their relationship to a strategic partnership with focus on expanding political, defence & security cooperation. The visit also had Greek President Katerina N Sakellaropoulou conferring the Grand Cross of the Order of Honour on Modi, making him the first foreign head of government to receive it. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/6BctHlx

Manipur clashes: Pre-trial work of cases moved to Guwahati

On CBI's request, SC on Friday entrusted pre-trial procedural work in the 27 cases being investigated by central agency, arising from the ethnic clashes in Manipur and including the parading of two women naked by a mob on May 4, to magisterial and sessions courts in Guwahati in Assam. Of these 27 cases, 20 pertain to molestation, rape and murder of women, three concern looting of weapons, two are cases of murder of male members, and a case each relating to rioting and conspiracy. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/6BctHlx

Teacher encourages students to slap classmate in UP; stirs row

The teacher, seen seated, can be purportedly heard saying in Hindi in one of the clips: "I have declared that there are Muslim children... Why don't you slap him with full force." Via Times of India https://ift.tt/6BctHlx

Govt cites Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s opposition to buttress Article 370 stand

BJP has always maintained that J&K would not have got the special status that it enjoyed under Article 370 if Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, country’s first home minister who played a crucial role in the integration of the erstwhile princely states into the Indian Union, had his way. The reverence for the “Iron Man” and the architect of unified India found robust mention in the Centre’s arguments before the Supreme Court on Thursday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/1uoVrfD

Fighter squadrons depleting, IAF eyes 100 more Tejas Mk-1A

The IAF now plans to order around 100 more Tejas Mark-1A jets to meet the shortfall in the number of its combat squadrons till a much more powerful and capable version of the indigenous fighter is operationally ready. This proposed deal for around 100 Tejas Mark-1A jets will add to the 73 such jets and 10 trainers already ordered under the Rs 46,898 crore contract inked with HAL in February 2021. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/1uoVrfD

IIT-Bombay gets Rs 160 crore from anonymous donor

The Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay has received its first ever anonymous donation of Rs 160 crore. The cheque has come from an alumnus who wishes to maintain complete privacy about his gift. The donation has come at a time when the institution has been hit by budget cuts and is taking loans from the Higher Education Financial Agency (HEFA) for expansion. The donated funds will go towards setting up a Green Energy and Sustainability Research hub (GESR) on campus. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/1uoVrfD

Chandrayaan-3 lander Vikram ‘full on’, Pragyan does Moonwalk

A day after Chandrayaan-3 lander Vikram touched down on Moon’s south polar region, Isro on Thursday switched on the payloads on Vikram and started moving Pragyan, the rover, on the lunar surface. On why the rover took more than four hours to roll out, Isro chairman S Somanath told TOI: “After the landing, we had to check the inclination, terrain condition and temperatures, and wait for the lunar dust to settle. The rover came out late last night.” Via Times of India https://ift.tt/1uoVrfD

Modi, Xi meet on Brics sidelines, agree on LAC disengagement

Maintenance of peace and tranquility in the border areas and respect for the LAC are essential for the normalization of Sino-Indian ties that remain in deep-freeze because of the unresolved military standoff in eastern Ladakh, PM Narendra Modi told president Xi Jinping ahead of the G20 summit. PM highlighted India’s concerns over the ``unresolved issues’’ along the LAC and both leaders agreed to work towards early disengagement and de-escalation. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/1uoVrfD

389 foreign sats launched, Rs 3,300 cr earned, 123% rise in budget

Buoyed by the success of various space programmes, increasing space activities in the country and Chandrayaan-3 mission, the Modi government on Wednesday released a series of posts unveiling its report card on the country's achievements in the fast-growing space sector. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FWVwePi

SC rejects bid to link impact of constriction of Article 370 to north-eastern states

Arunachal Pradesh Congress leader Padi Richo, through Senior Advocate Manish Tiwari, said the SC must take into account the possible fallout of the Union government's "arbitrary" and "unconstitutional" exercise to end the special status of J&K under Article 370, which was promised by the framers of the Constitution in 1950, for the N-E states. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FWVwePi

'Every person has right to undergo sex change'

While passing the directive, Justice Ajit Kumar observed that if a person suffers from gender dysphoria and except for physical structure, her feeling and traits are of opposite sex, so much so that that there is a complete misalignment of her personality with physical body, such a person does possess a constitutionally recognized right to get her gender changed though surgical intervention. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FWVwePi

'Wagner chief on list of passengers on plane that crashed'

The head of the Wagner group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who attempted to overthrow Russia's military leadership in June, was reportedly on a plane that crashed in Russia. Russia's ministry for emergency situation said 'There were 10 people on board, including 3 crew members. According to preliminary information, all those on board died'. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FWVwePi

Judiciary has become part of an unholy alliance: Madras HC judge

The Madras High Court has criticized the current approach of special courts dealing with disproportionate assets cases against politicians, stating that it could lead to the end of such cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The court observed that the change of power in the state often results in the identities of the accused and the prosecution being obfuscated. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/FWVwePi

Madras HC to review suo motu discharge of 2 more DMK ministers

The Madras High Court has initiated a suo motu revision of the discharge of two more DMK ministers, Thangam Thennarasu and KKSSR Ramachandran, from disproportionate assets cases against them. This comes after a similar action was taken against DMK minister K Ponmudy on August 10. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Gjf50VB

Will PM Modi meet Xi Jinping on Brics sidelines? No clarity yet

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the Brics leaders' retreat, raising speculation about a possible bilateral meeting between the two leaders. Modi is scheduled to have five bilateral meetings on the last day of the summit, including with leaders from Iran, Ethiopia, and Mozambique. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Gjf50VB

Offering 'highest ever price' of Rs 2,410/quintal onion, says Piyush Goyal

The Indian government has announced that it will procure two lakh tonnes of onions from farmers in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh in order to address concerns over a potential shortage. The government will offer a "highest ever rate" for the onions and will purchase them through government cooperatives NAFED and NCCF. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Gjf50VB

Centre makes U-turn on GM mustard

The Indian government has requested to withdraw its oral undertaking to the Supreme Court, which stated that it would not initiate commercial cultivation of genetically modified (GM) mustard without the court's approval. The government argues that the development of GM crops is crucial for India's future food security and that the process should continue. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Gjf50VB

Karnataka's Congress govt decides to set up its own fact-check unit

The Karnataka government has authorized the creation of a fact-check unit to combat fake news on social and conventional media. The unit, which will involve fact-checkers from the IT-BT department, will identify and label fake news, alert social media platforms, and inform a government panel for further investigation. The panel will include legal experts who will determine if the news violates laws and policies. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Gjf50VB

IMA opposes NMC norms on prescriptions, bar on meets

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has urged the Union health minister to withdraw regulations requiring doctors to prescribe generic drugs until the quality of all medicines can be assured. The IMA also expressed concerns about regulations prohibiting doctors from attending conferences sponsored by pharmaceutical companies. The association called for exemptions for associations and organizations from the regulations. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Gjf50VB

Vikram all set for soft landing as India reaches for the Moon today

India is set to make history by landing a probe in the polar region of the Moon. The Chandrayaan-3 lander, named Vikram, is scheduled to touchdown on Wednesday, followed by the release of the rover named Pragyan. If successful, India will be the first to land close to the lunar south pole. Vikram has been equipped with sturdier legs to withstand landing velocities. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/Gjf50VB

India and ASEAN agree to review trade pact by 2025

India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have agreed to review their trade pact by 2025, the Indian government said on Monday, less than a month after India's trade minister called the agreement unfair to the Indian industry. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/nw1tuIs

What Chandrayaan-3 lander & rover will do after Moon touchdown

India's Chandrayaan-3 mission is set to land on the Moon's surface on Wednesday, marking a major achievement for the country. After landing, the rover will begin its operations for one lunar day, collecting data from its instruments. The lander will also carry out measurements and study the lunar crust and mantle. The mission aims to explore the unexplored lunar South Pole, with the hope of finding evidence of water, which could potentially be a valuable source of clean energy. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/nw1tuIs

Aeroflex Industries IPO opens today: All you need to know

The IPO of stainless steel flexible hose manufacturer Aeroflex Industries Limited (AIL) will open on August 22 and close on August 24. The company has already raised Rs 104 crore from anchor investors. The IPO includes a fresh issue of equity shares worth up to Rs 162 crore and an offer for sale of up to 1.75 crore equity shares by promoter body Sat Industries. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/nw1tuIs

US official Lee Satterfield to visit India today

United States Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) Lee Satterfield will visit India from August 22-27 to lead the US delegation to the G20 Culture Ministers' Meeting in Varanasi on Saturday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/nw1tuIs

If factors unfavourable, we will postpone landing to August 27: Senior Isro scientist on Chandrayaan-3

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is considering an alternative landing date of August 27 for the Chandrayaan-3 mission if conditions are not favourable on August 23. ISRO has taken precautions and learned from the mistakes of the Chandrayaan-2 mission, strengthening the legs of the Vikram lander and conducting rigorous testing. ISRO is prioritizing a smooth landing and will delay if necessary, even though it may result in a loss of four Earth days for rover and lander operations. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/nw1tuIs

Four arrests as police investigate large-scale violence at Derbyshire kabaddi event

Violence erupted during a circle kabaddi tournament in Derby, UK, where gunshots were fired and individuals fought with swords, rods, and machetes. Four arrested men are suspected of firearm possession and violent disorder. The tournament was organized by the England Kabaddi Federation (EKF), with yellow Khalistan flags present. The incident occurred despite crowd barriers protecting the pitch, and EKF stressed that those involved weren't linked to their affiliated clubs. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/nw1tuIs

Why this US state is attracting Indian medical students

The number of Indian students studying in Georgia is increasing, with around 8,000 estimated to be studying there in 2021. Most Indian students go to Georgia for medical studies, attracted by the affordability and safety of the country. Georgia has over 20 universities approved by India's National Medical Commission, offering exposure to patients and degrees recognized by the World Health Organization. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/nw1tuIs

NSCN(IM) links Naga outfit to Manipur killings

Terming the act of targeting the Kuki trio "within the jurisdiction of Nagalim" an "unwarranted intrusion", the NSCN(IM) said the August 18 killings at Sipijang village near Thowai were the handiwork of the proscribed Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) and a Naga outfit that it said "doesn't represent the community's interest and welfare". Via Times of India https://ift.tt/capDvuU

Narco-terror case: SIA Jammu arrests key accused from Delhi

“On May 30, an attempt was made by four associates of a narco-terror module to smuggle drugs and explosives into India from across the border fence in Poonch. The accused persons were intercepted by Army’s SIKHLI with arms, ammunition, Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and heroin,” the spokesperson said. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/capDvuU

From Rs 260 peak, tomato now down to under Rs 100/kg

The data of prices compiled by the consumer affairs ministry shows that tomatoes were selling at more than Rs 200 a kg across 31 centres on August 4 and the maximum price was Rs 257. But a fortnight later, on Friday, the retail price of the kitchen item was over Rs 200 only at two centres in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/jRrz6aA

Centre puts 40% export duty on onions to boost supplies, tame prices

The latest step comes after official data showed retail inflation, as measured by the consumer price index, soared to a 15-month high of 7.4% in July, up from the previous month's 4.9%. PM Modi, in his I-Day speech, promised to control inflation and minimise the burden on citizens. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/jRrz6aA

Srinagar’s tulip garden enters record books with 1.5mn flowers

At the garden on Saturday, J&K administration’s secretary (floriculture, gardens and parks) Fayaz Sheikh was honoured with the certification by World Book president and CEO Santosh Shukla. World Book editor Dilip N Pandit, the J&K director of floriculture, other officers and the garden staff were also present on the occasion. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/jRrz6aA

I-T returns growth signals prosperity, compliance: PM

PM Narendra Modi on Friday cited two independent reports on income taxpayers to argue that income levels have increased in the country and there is better compliance due to the trust shown by the government. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gVuNhIP

Bihar journalist gunned down at his doorstep

Vimal Kumar (35), a journalist with a prominent Hindi daily, was shot dead by four unidentified persons at the doorstep of his home in Bihar's Araria district early on Friday, weeks before he was to testify as a prime witness in his younger brother's 2019 murder. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gVuNhIP

Three tribal men killed as violence erupts in Manipur after two weeks

Suspected militants tortured and killed three Kuki villagers early on Friday in Naga-dominated Ukhrul, shattering a two-week lull in Manipur since the last burst of bloodshed on August 5 and carrying the violent animosity of the ethnic strife raging for 100-odd days to a district so far untouched by it. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gVuNhIP

'Didn't feel I missed out a lot': Bumrah on his comeback

Jasprit Bumrah, who was leading the side on his return after an 11-month injury layoff, led India to a two-run win over Ireland in the first T20I of the three-match series, claiming 2 for 24 with nine dot balls and forming a formidable pair with Prasidh Krishna. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gVuNhIP

Dead dolphins: Ukraine builds ecocide case against Russia

Ukraine is developing a strategy for the prosecution of environmental war crimes and ecocide against Russia. Thousands of dolphins have washed up dead on the shores of the Black Sea; four specific acts are recognised as international crimes, but Ukraine hopes to add ecocide to the list. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/UzEMp1n

Man sent back from Pakistan is an ISI agent: Cops

Days after a family of three - the father, 70, mother, 65, and son, 35 - were "sent back" from a jail in Pakistan after spending a year there, UP police made a startling claim on Thursday, saying "the son was in fact deported as part of an ISI operation", reports Sachin Sharma. ASP (Meerut) Brijesh Singh said, "Kalim Ahmed used to smuggle weapons from across the border but last year Pakistan customs department detained him." Via Times of India https://ift.tt/UzEMp1n

Rapist freed for ‘good conduct’ rapes again, survivor critical

A 35-year-old rape convict in MP's Satna district, released in 2021 because of "good conduct" after serving seven years of a 10-year sentence, raped a minor again on Wednesday. He has been booked under Pocso. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/UzEMp1n

Gujarat & Centre: Bilkis Bano case not rarest of rare; Supreme Court: Why selective remission?

The Centre and Gujarat state have defended their decision to release 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case, pleading that they did not commit a "rarest of rare crime," and should be allowed to reform and reintegrate at society. However, the Supreme Court asked why the remission policy was applied selectively and why convicts in a similar position continue to remain in jail. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/UzEMp1n

Cong disowns neta's statement as AAP threatens to exit

Delhi Congress member Alka Lamba on Wednesday said the leadership has decided to contest all seven Lok Sabha seats in the capital in 2024, triggering a war of words with AAP, which threatened to walk out of the opposition INDIA grouping if Congress did not roll back its stand. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/znI4mL1

Looking for the best & brightest #Unstoppable21 young Indians

With a young population of 512 million Indians under 21, India is poised to reap its demographic dividend. To celebrate India's youth, the Times of India is launching #Unstoppable21, inviting nominations for 21 Indians under 21 in humanities, science, sports, fine arts, performing arts, social activism and entrepreneurship. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/znI4mL1

JEE aspirant hangs self in Kota, 20th suicide this year

An 18-year-old Bihar student was found dead in his Kota PG hostel room, the latest suicide and fourth since the last fortnight. Identified as Valmiki Prasad, the engineering entrant had been preparing for his IIT-JEE exam since last academic session. His last reported activity was a call to his parents on Monday evening to which they replied by arriving in Kota the following day. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/znI4mL1

The young sued US state on climate change and won

A Montana judge ruled that state agencies had violated plaintiffs' constitutional rights by allowing fossil fuel development to continue, which is harming the environment. The lawsuit was brought by young environmental activists, aged between 5 and 22 - making it the first climate change case of its kind to go to trial in the US. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xLfu8dG

In his 10th I-Day speech, PM Modi says he'll be back next year

India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, focused on India's place in a changed global context post-pandemic in his Independence Day speech. He emphasized the successes achieved by his government and India's potential to regain glory under strong and stable governance. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xLfu8dG

Maoists kills 2 policemen on eve of Independence Day in Jharkhand

Suspected Maoists active in the forested regions of West Singhbhum district of Jharkhand attacked joint security forces and killed two policemen on the eve of Independence Day. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xLfu8dG

No concrete breakthrough in India-China military talks

There was yet again no concrete breakthrough in resolving the festering troop face-offs at Depsang Plains and Demchok in eastern Ladakh despite the latest round of top-level military talks being held with China after a gap of almost four months. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xLfu8dG

Far-right 'rockstar' leads in Argentina's president primary

Far-right populist candidate Javier Milei emerged as the biggest vote-getter in Argentina's primary elections for presidential candidates. With around 92% votes counted, Milei had around 30% of the total vote, making him an unexpected but real contender for the presidency. Milei, an admirer of Trump, wants to abolish the central bank, legalise the sale of human organs, and make it easier to own handguns. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/u8A9k4X

Independence Day: More medals for cops in anti-Maoist operations than those in J&K

Police medals for bravery in fighting left-wing extremism in India are more numerous than for counter-terrorism operations in J&K, repeating the same trend witnessed earlier this year on Republic Day. Of the 954 police medals announced, 125 were for gallantry in combating left-wing extremism, and 71 for counter-terrorism in J&K. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/u8A9k4X

Share your Independence Day greetings

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Now, RPF to test mental fitness of its personnel

In the wake of the incident where an on-duty Railway Protection Force (RPF) constable gunned down four people on a train, the force will be carrying out psychiatric screenings of its personnel and holding counselling sessions. Sources said senior RPF officers are in an advanced stage of discussions with a non-profit group that works in the field of mental health. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xAy7NU8

‘ATM theft’ & ‘paper leak’ to be branded ‘petty organised crime’

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), expected to replace the 163-year-old IPC, intends to include organised crimes like ATM thefts, leaking question papers, shoplifting, car theft and stealing valuables from a car among new offences under a specific section, with a convict liable for jail term ranging from one to 7 years along with a fine. There’s no provision in IPC that specifically deals with these offences — often bracketing them under the broad head of ‘theft’ under Section 378. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xAy7NU8

At Palwal, renewed call for boycott of minorities

A lawyer who had been booked for hate speech at a panchayat in Gurgaon’s Tigra village on August 6 was one of the organisers of another such meet in Palwal on Sunday. Kulbhushan Bhardwaj, a district court lawyer, on Sunday dared the administration to lodge a second FIR against him and exhorted youths to take out another Brij Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra on August 28, “come what may”. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xAy7NU8

5th T20I: How India lost the series decider against WI

The Indian team, led by Hardik Pandya, made a valiant comeback in the third and fourth T20Is but were outclassed by the West Indies in the fifth match, losing the series 2-3. No team has made a successful comeback from 0-2 down in a T20I series, and India also failed to change the outcome in the deciding match in Florida. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xAy7NU8

Kota to hold psychological tests in bid to stop student suicides

With the aim to check mounting suicide cases in Kota, the district administration has decided to conduct psychological tests of every coaching students every fortnight. The test will help spot suicidal tendencies among students in time and they could be provided with timely counselling. The decision was taken at a meeting with representatives of coaching institutes, hostels and stakeholders, held on Saturday to review the implementation of norms for coaching centres and hostels. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/YsAuyxZ

With BNS, long arm of law set to extend to foreign shores

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023 seeks to introduce a provision for attachment and forfeiture of proclaimed offenders' properties located not just within the country but also outside India. Also, new sections are proposed to be added to make waging of war against the government of a foreign State at peace with India as well as committing of depredation on the territory of such foreign State, an offence punishable with up to seven years in prison. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/YsAuyxZ

Nurses, farmers among 1,800 'special guests' for I-Day event

Fifty nurses, along with their families, are among nearly 1,800 persons invited as "special guests" to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation on Independence Day from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15. They have been invited as part of the government's initiative to invite people from all walks of life. "It is good that the nursing profession is being recognised. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/YsAuyxZ

4th T20I: How India blew away West Indies for series-levelling victory

India made a complete mockery of the 179 chase as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill's belligerent opening stand powered India to a series-levelling nine-wicket victory in the fourth T20I against West Indies in Lauderhill, Florida on Saturday. Jaiswal and Gill smoked dazzling half-centuries as the duo toyed with the West Indies bowling attack during the chase, helping India cross the finish line without breaking a sweat. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/YsAuyxZ

INDIA focuses on war plan ahead of Mumbai meet

The opposition INDIA alliance has instructed its spokespersons to refer to the coalition as "INDIA Alliance" or "Team INDIA" in all their references and not use "dots" in INDIA, which is an abbreviation for the "Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance". With the monsoon session over, the allies are focussing on the third meeting of leaders in Mumbai on August 31 and September 1. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2lONydU

After July surplus, poor August rains push monsoon into -ve

After the month had begun with a 5% surplus on the back of a wet July, the monsoon slipped into the negative zone on Friday with an overall deficit of 1% following a sustained dry spell in August that is likely to continue across most regions of the country for a few more days. Meanwhile, El Nino has strengthened from a "weak" to a "moderate" state and the latest update from US weather agencies late Thursday said there was a 66% chance of it developing into a "strong" event later this year. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2lONydU

India to press for pullback at military talks next week

India will once again press for troop disengagement at the strategically located Depsang Plains as well as Demchok in eastern Ladakh during the next round of top-level military talks early next week.The 19th round of corps commander-level talks will be held on the Indian side of the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on August 14, almost four months after the last round failed to break the deadlock, defence sources said on Friday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2lONydU

Modi govt’s bill to select CEC, ECs against Advani’s proposal: Cong

The Congress on Friday dug out an old letter written by veteran BJP leader L K Advani in March 2012 in which he had asked the then prime minister Manmohan Singh to include the leaders of opposition in the panel to select members of the constitutional bodies. The Congress censured the Modi dispensation for dropping the chief justice of India (CJI) from the panel to select the chief election commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners (ECs). Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2lONydU

CAG flags Bharatmala bidding irregularities

The federal auditor, in its latest report, has found irregularities in award of the government's flagship Bharatmala highway projects and said that the implementing agencies violated the tendering processes. The violations include successful bidder not fulfilling tender conditions or bidder selected on the basis of falsified documents and award of works without approved detailed project reports (DPRs) or faulty reports. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/yQxplVj

Gehlot power sop puts Rs 2,500cr burden on Rajasthan

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot announced Thursday the abolition of fuel surcharge for all domestic and agricultural electricity consumers, irrespective of the units consumed. "This will put an extra burden of Rs 2,500 crore, which will be borne by the state government," Gehlot said about the waiver, among the slew of recent sops he has declared ahead of assembly polls due later this year. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/yQxplVj

Give borrowers option to prepay, switch rates: RBI

RBI is worried about the long extension of home loan tenures. Deputy governor M Rajeshwar Rao on Thursday said that the regulator is not considering defining an "unreasonable elongation" as the bank's board will have to consider this. "It is for the bank board to decide having regard to the tenor and the repayment capacity of the individual borrowers," he said. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/yQxplVj

Northeast is a piece of our heart, says PM Modi, assures peace in Manipur soon

PM Modi Thursday pledged the country’s support to the people in trouble-torn Manipur, calling the northeast a “piece of our heart”. “India stands with Manipur. This House stands with Manipur,” he said, replying to the debate on the no-trust motion brought against the government. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/yQxplVj

Rajasthan will hike OBC quota from 21% to 27%: CM Gehlot

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot announced on Wednesday that the state would raise OBC reservation from 21% to 27%, with the additional 6% being for the benefit of the most backward sections within the category. The change, if and when it takes effect, will raise overall reservation in Rajasthan from 64% to 70%. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gloY8kZ

SIP mop-up in July topped entire year’s figure for FY14

What took a year for SIP mop-up a decade ago, now needs just a month. Systematic investment plan contributions crossed the Rs 15,000-crore mark for the first time in July, industry data showed, reports Aseem Gujar. In FY14, MFs collected Rs 14,500 crore through SIPs in the entire fiscal. The steady rise in monthly SIP flows — which crossed the Rs 10,000-crore mark two years ago — comes on the back of retail investors’ growing maturity level and faith in the asset class. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gloY8kZ

100+ houses ‘illegally built’ on railways land being razed

Local administration, railway officials and a large number of cops reached areas regarded as “sensitive” near Mathura’s Shri Krishna Janmasthan Wednesday morning with bulldozers and began demolishing over 100 houses in the Nai Basti area, which has a predominantly minority population, that were said to be “illegally developed on government land”. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gloY8kZ

You have set Manipur on fire: Rahul Gandhi to govt; Amit Shah: You did drama there

Lok Sabha witnessed a heated exchange on the second day of the debate on the no-confidence motion moved by Congress, with Rahul Gandhi accusing the government of destroying ‘Bharat Mata’ and branding governing party members as “traitors”, which drew a sharp retort from Union ministers Amit Shah and Smriti Irani, who asked the former Congress chief not to politicise the ethnic strife in Manipur. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/gloY8kZ

Rajya Sabha passes 4 bills in 3.5 hours amid opposition walkout

Rajya Sabha on Tuesday unanimously passed four bills, including one that seeks to equip military commanders of all tri-service organisations with full administrative and disciplinary powers, after the opposition MPs had staged a walkout over the non-acceptance of their demand for holding a discussion on Manipur instead. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/d1fonDq

Malayalam filmmaker-screenwriter Siddique passes away at 63

Siddique, popular Malayalam filmmaker and scriptwriter, passed away at the age of 63 in Kochi. He had been undergoing treatment for various ailments and was on ECMO support . Known for movies like ‘Nadodikkattu’, ‘Ramji Rao Speaking’, and ‘In Harihar Nagar’, Siddique had won acclaim for his 2010 movie, ‘Bodyguard’, which was remade in Tamil and Bollywood. His last directorial was the film ‘Big Brother’ starring Mohanlal that released in 2020. Siddique is survived by his wife and three children. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/d1fonDq

SC sends TN minister Senthil Balaji to ED custody till Aug 12

The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed the plea of Tamil Nadu minister V Senthil Balaji challenging his arrest and upheld his custody given to Enforcement Directorate in a money laundering case. It ruled that the agency is empowered to seek custody of an accused and not bound to follow Section 41A of Criminal Procedure Code which mandates that notice be served to the accused for appearance before arrest. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/YyMfL1t

Giant 400kg lock made for Ram mandir

A 66-year-old locksmith from Aligarh has made a giant-sized 400kg lock — almost 10 feet high, 4.6 feet wide and 9.5 inches thick — for the Ram mandir in Ayodhya, reports Mohammad Dilshad. Satya Prakash Sharma, the locksmith, termed it “the world’s largest handmade lock”. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/ga7k9GH

2nd T20I: West Indies register thrilling two-wicket victory over India

Despite Tilak Varma's brilliant performance, scoring his first international half-century, India couldn't avoid a thrilling two-wicket defeat in the second T20I against West Indies in Guyana on Sunday. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/ga7k9GH

Mehbooba, other netas put under ‘house arrest’: PDP

Protests and contrasting sentiments were witnessed in J&K on the fourth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the former state into Union territories, reflecting the continuing divide on the decision that stripped its statehood and special status on August 5, 2019. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/2CZtMxW

Bombay HC: Abortion is not a fundamental right, or even a vested right

Abortion is not a fundamental right or even a vested right, said Bombay HC Thursday, “greatly disturbed’ that a baby born during medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) procedure, and discharged against medical advice by his father from Solapur Civil Hospital, had died. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xcBfYAF

RPF cop to face charge of communal discord too

The railway police (GRP) will add provisions related to spreading communal disharmony against RPF constable Chetan Singh, who allegedly gunned down his senior and three passengers on the Jaipur-Mumbai Superfast Express on Monday. This is the first time the agency is taking into account the communal shades to this case. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/xcBfYAF

India’s 1st college-incubated company now a listed entity

Amidst a slew of IPOs that hit the Indian stock markets last month was one that had a rather different birthing. Ideaforge is the country’s first college campus-incubated company that has gone on to become a listed entity. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/vjJa2mV

1st T20I: West Indies secure narrow victory over India

West Indies started the five-match T20 International series on a winning note at the Brian Lara Stadium on Thursday as India made a mess of a modest run-chase, losing the opening match by a mere four runs. After winning the toss, the West Indies captain Rovman Powell made the bold decision to bat first on what seemed to be a challenging pitch. Powell (48 off 32) then played a captain's knock to help the hosts put on a competitive total of 149 for six in their allotted 20 overs. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/vjJa2mV

Quota in promotion cannot be claimed as a right: Uttarakhand High Court

A single bench of Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari of the Uttarakhand high court (HC), citing a division bench decision of 2012 regarding reservation in promotion in government jobs, ruled that “it cannot be claimed as a right.” The order, delivered on Monday and made available on Wednesday, came while dismissing a petition filed by Navmi Devi, a ‘group D’ employee in the state education department, who had approached the court in 2018 seeking reservation in promotions. Via Times of India https://ift.tt/vjJa2mV

Celebrate Rakshabandhan with Muslim women: PM Modi to BJP MPs

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