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Uttarakhand Weather: Dense fog alert in five districts, snowfall continues in Badrinath-Kedarnath, Mussoorie hit by hailstorm

Namita Singh — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 07:58:00 +0530

Dehradun: According to the Meteorological Department, skies will remain clear today as the impact of the western disturbance fades, but dense fog has been predicted in several districts of Uttarakhand.The Meteorological Center has issued a dense fog alert for Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, Dehradun, Pauri, and Nainital. Foggy conditions are already visible in Haridwar, and officials warn that visibility may drop sharply in the morning and evening hours.

Hilly areas can see decline in tempTemperatures are also expected to fall. The minimum temperature in the plains may drop by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius, while hilly areas could see a decline of 1 to 2 degrees Celsius over the next two to three days. Light to moderate fog is also likely in some hilly regions.On Tuesday, Dehradun recorded a maximum temperature of 24.4°C and a minimum of 11.2°C. Pantnagar reported similar figures, while Mukteshwar recorded a maximum of 12.5°C and a minimum of 2.5°C. New Tehri reported 14.6°C as the maximum and 3.7°C as the minimum.Hailstorm in MussoorieThe effects of recent rain and snowfall in the mountains were felt in the plains too. While sunshine made the plains warmer, Mussoorie experienced heavy hailstorms. The hailstorm in the Masrana area caused a traffic jam stretching nearly one and a half kilometers.Tourists heading towards Uttarkashi, Tehri, and Dhanaulti faced difficulties, and local residents were troubled by the sudden disruption. The hailstorm has intensified the cold in Mussoorie, adding to the discomfort of travelers.Snow in Badrinath and KedarnathMeanwhile, repeated snowfalls have left Badrinath and Kedarnath shrines buried under nearly three feet of snow. With bright sunshine returning, the Kedarnath shrine and surrounding hills are shining like silver, creating a breathtaking view. Pilgrims and tourists visiting the area are witnessing a captivating winter landscape.Officials advise residents and tourists to remain cautiousThe Meteorological Department has forecast clear skies across Uttarakhand on February 5th. However, rain and snowfall are expected to return in some hilly districts on February 6th. Officials advise residents and tourists to remain cautious, especially while traveling in foggy conditions or on slippery mountain roads.

Uttarakhand sets new tourism record; over 6 crore visitors in 2025, Haridwar tops with 3.42 crore pilgrims

Namita Singh — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 14:44:00 +0530

Dehradun: Uttarakhand has achieved a historic milestone in tourism. For the first time since the formation of the state, the annual number of tourists and pilgrims has crossed 6 crores. According to the Tourism Department, a total of 6,03,21,194 visitors arrived in 2025, including nearly 1.92 lakh foreign tourists.Haridwar emerged as the biggest attraction, welcoming 3,42,49,380 pilgrims and tourists. Dehradun recorded 67,35,071 visitors, while Tehri district saw 53,29,759 tourists. These figures highlight the growing popularity of Uttarakhand as both a spiritual and adventure destination.Crossing the 6 crores mark in 2025 is a landmark achievementThe steady growth in tourist numbers over the past few years reflects the success of these efforts. In 2021, Uttarakhand received 2 crore visitors, followed by 5.39 crore in 2022, 5.96 crore in 2023, and 5.95 crore in 2024. Crossing the 6 crores mark in 2025 is being seen as a landmark achievement.Combination of spiritual tourism, adventure activities helped in achieving this featTourism officials believe that the combination of spiritual tourism, adventure activities, and improved facilities has made Uttarakhand a year-round destination. From the Char Dham pilgrimage to skiing in Auli, from trekking in the Himalayas to visiting heritage towns, the state offers diverse experiences for travelers.All sectors are getting benefittedLocal businesses, including hotels, homestays, transport services, and guides, are benefiting directly from this surge. The government expects that continued investment in infrastructure and eco-friendly tourism will further strengthen Uttarakhand’s position as one of India’s leading tourist destinations.Dhami’s initiatives have played a key role in this achievementUttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami’s initiatives have played a key role in this achievement. Under his leadership, the government has launched several schemes to promote tourism and improve infrastructure at pilgrimage and tourist sites. Safety arrangements have also been strengthened, ensuring that visitors can travel with confidence.The CM Dhami emphasized that tourism is a major pillar of Uttarakhand’s economy. He said, “Our government is promoting tourism activities throughout the year, ensuring employment opportunities for local residents and youth. Winter tourism is a key component of this initiative. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Mukhba, his winter residence, to worship Mother Ganga, has boosted winter tourism in the state. We have prioritized tourist safety along with enhancing facilities, and as a result, Uttarakhand is setting new records every year.”

Scare prompts Air India to reinspect fuel control switches on Boeing 787s

Tirtho Banerjee — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 12:45:00 +0530

New Delhi: Air India has ordered a precautionary, fleet-wide reinspection of the Fuel Control Switch (FCS) latch on its Boeing 787s, days after a pilot flagged a possible defect during operations. Following this, the airline grounded one aircraft and escalated the matter to aircraft manufacturer Boeing.Operating flight AI132 from London to Bengaluru, the aircraft landed on Monday morning with at least 200 people on board, after which the pilot in command (PIC) highlighted the issue in the logbook. It was later grounded.Safety Matters Foundation, an independent aviation safety education platform, pointed out that the pilot of the aircraft reported abnormal behaviour of the LEFT engine fuel control switch on a Boeing 787-8 aircraft, VT-ANX.The platform underlined: “During engine start, the switch failed to remain locked in the RUN position on two attempts, moving towards CUTOFF — a malfunction that could, under specific conditions, lead to an inadvertent engine shutdown in flight.”

What was Air India's internal communication to pilots

In an internal communication to pilots operating the B787 aircraft, Air India said: “Following the reported defect involving a Fuel Control Switch on one of our B787 aircraft, Engineering has escalated the matter to Boeing for priority evaluation.”It added: “In the interim, while we await Boeing’s response, our engineers — out of an abundance of caution — have initiated a precautionary fleet-wide re-inspection of the Fuel Control Switch (FCS) latch to verify normal operations.”The airline told its pilots that no irregularities had been found so far. Air India told its pilots: “To date, no adverse findings have been reported on the aircraft for which this re-inspection is completed.”The airline also called on flight and maintenance crews to quickly flag any defects during operations and to ensure all required actions are finished before an aircraft is cleared for service.“We are in contact with Air India and are supporting their review of this matter,” a Boeing spokesperson reportedly said on Monday.Captain Amit Singh, founder of Safety Matters Foundation, was quoted as saying by HT, “This discrepancy raises urgent questions. Were the checks conducted by the airline after the Air India 171 crash thorough? Is this a new, recurring defect? Passengers and crews deserve unambiguous answers.”

Aviation watchdog orders special audit of VSR Ventures as probe into Ajit Pawar plane crash intensifies

Tirtho Banerjee — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:22:00 +0530

New Delhi: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Ajit Pawar's death in a plane crash near Baramati on January 28 sent shockwaves across the nation.Almost a week after the incident, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) -- the aviation watchdog -- has ordered a special audit of VSR Ventures, the private jet company that operated the flight for the leader. The order comes as investigations over the Pawar plane crash pick up pace. Ajit Pawar was onboard a Learjet 45 XR from Mumbai to Baramati when it burst into flames while trying to land, reportedly because of poor visibility. Ajit Pawar and four others, including pilot Sumit Kapur, co-pilot Shambhavi Pathak, Pawar's personal security officer Vidip Jadhav, and flight attendant Pinky Mali, died in the crash.The special audit report of VSR Ventures is set to come out by February 15. The report will probe the checks and balances and logbooks of the company. The move is aimed at ensuring that the firm was monitoring aircraft maintenance and filing logbooks as per the protocol.Besides this, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is investigating the circumstances that resulted in the crash.

VSR Ventures was denied nod to enter EU airspace

In a statement, India's aviation regulator DGCA said that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the European Union's (EU) aviation regulator which certifies non-EU airlines operating in its territories, had refused permission to VSR Ventures to operate in EU airspace.The DGCA said EASA suspended VSR Ventures’ Third Country Operator (TCO) authorisation after the company did not respond to queries about a September 14, 2023 accident in which Learjet 45 (VT-DBL) was involved.TCO is a compulsory safety certification which is issued by EASA for non-EU airlines operating commercial flights in the European Union and specific European territories.In 2020, VSR Ventures got TCO authorisation from the EU agency. After the September 2023 accident, EASA in 2024 asked VSR Ventures to share certain details of the accident, which the company did not furnish. Hence, on December 17, 2024, EASA suspended VSR's TCO authorisation. A year after that, the authorisation was revoked.

Why Learjet 45 XR crashed in 2023

A Learjet 45XR crashed on September 14, 2023 as it was about to land at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport amid torrential rain and poor visibility.The Learjet 45 was conducting a non-scheduled passenger service from Visakhapatnam to Mumbai, under the command of a Pilot in Command holding an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and assisted by a co-pilot with a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). Six passengers were on board.A report by the Ministry of Civil Aviation said the aircraft "took off normally from Visakhapatnam, and the flight en route was uneventful".The report said: "The aircraft established contact with Mumbai tower and was instructed to prepare for landing. The aircraft was cleared to land on Runway 27 and was given landing clearance at 113109 UTC. At the time of landing, Mumbai Airport was experiencing heavy rains and reduced visibility. The winds reported to the crew at the time of landing clearance was 'WIND 140 DEGREES 7 KTS RWY27'."VSR Ventures Pvt Ltd, officially VSR Aviation, is a New Delhi-based non-scheduled air transport company specialising in private jet charters, medical evacuations, and aviation consultancy.

"Rs 3795 crore allocated for Kerala in the budget, 35 station redeveloped under Amrit Bharat": Ashwini Vaishnaw

Vivek Narayanan — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:01:00 +0530

New Delhi : Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw while addressing the media countered the statements made by the opposition in the parliament over neglect towards Kerala in the railway sector. The union minister said that Kerala has received an allocation of Rs 3795 crore towards rail development in the current budget and added that Rs 18,000 crore worth projects are currently being undertaken in different sectors across railway in Kerala.Union minister said that the latest budget marked a milestone for Kerala where years of underinvestment had constrained expansion despite rising passenger demand and heavy dependence on rail transport in Kerala.“Kerala has received one of its highest allocation in the railway sector in the current budget. Also more projects are in the pipeline”, said union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.“As part of station modernization, 35 stations are being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat station programme. Vadakara and Chirayinkeezhu has been operational as Amrit Bharat stations since May 2025. In addition, 118 rail flyovers and underbridges have been constructed since 2014 to ease congestion at level crossings and improve safety”, the minister said.“Between 2009 and 2014, Kerala’s average annual railway allocation stood at Rs 372 crore limiting the pace of modernization and capacity creation. Since 2014, sustained central investment had helped accelerate growth, with projects worth around Rs 18,000 crore currently being undertaken”, said union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.“The 2026-27 budget reinforces Kerala’s emergence as a key driver of rail-led growth in southern India. He further added that the visible improvement across the railway network reflect a decade of focused investment and execution”, the minister added.

Why and how Gen Naravane’s book sparked Lok Sabha showdown between Rahul Gandhi and government

Tirtho Banerjee — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:45:00 +0530

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha was thrown into chaos on Monday when Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition, attempted to read out an article based on an unpublished book by former Army chief General MM Naravane (Retd).Proceedings were halted as Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh objected to the reference of the book, stating that only formally published material may be quoted in the House.The Congress pointed out that it was a matter of "national security". However, the House was first adjourned till 3 pm, then 4 pm and subsequently for the day.

What happened?

The reference to former Army chief MM Naravane’s book was made in the Lok Sabha when Rahul Gandhi sought to quote from his unpublished memoir -- Four Stars of Destiny -- on the 2020 India-China conflict to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Recently, The Caravan magazine did a cover story on Naravane's book, which was supposed to be published by Penguin. The book has reportedly been waiting for nod from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for around 18 months.Speaking on the motion of thanks to the President’s address, Rahul Gandhi said he wished to respond to allegations related to nationalism levelled by BJP MP Tejasvi Surya against the Congress.After this, he referred to the book and its content. This sparked an immediate backlash from BJP leaders, who alleged that the Congress leader was misleading the House and disrespecting the armed forces. They accused Gandhi of undermining the dignity of the House and hurting the sentiment of Indian soldiers with his false allegations. They asked him to stop “speaking the language of anti-India elements”.The chaos continued for almost 50 minutes with speaker Om Birla repeatedly saying that no book or newspaper clipping can be quoted on a matter not related to the proceedings of the House, while Gandhi stating that the document was authenticated and can be quoted.Gandhi said the government was “afraid” of a line from Naravane’s memoir that he wanted to quote, and asserted that he would do so in the Rajya Sabha. Speaking to reporters outside the Parliament, he said: "This is what the army chief has written in a book. The book is not allowed to be published. It is languishing. This is the Army chief's perspective. Why is the government scared of the Army chief's perspective."

What's so controversial about Naravane’s book?

General Naravane was Army chief when the Galwan clash in eastern Ladakh broke out between Indian and Chinese troops. It was under his tenure that the government rolled out the Agnipath recruitment scheme, triggering huge controversy.As many as 20 Indian Army soldiers, including a Colonel, lost their lives in the clash at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh's Galwan Valley on the night of June 15-16, 2020.The content of Naravane's book on military operations and government policies has reportedly led to a review, delaying its publication.In the book, Naravane mentions his interaction with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 31, 2020, amid mounting tensions with China on the LAC.According to news agency PTI, Naravane writes in the memoir, "He (Rajnath Singh) said that he had spoken to the PM and that it was purely a military decision. Jo ucchit samjho woh karo (Do whatever you deem is appropriate)... I had been handed a hot potato. With this carte blanche, the onus was now totally on me. I took a deep breath and sat silently for a few minutes."The back cover of the book has a blurb by former Army chief VP Malik, who led the Indian Army during the 1999 Kargil War. General Malik wrote: "An intimate and veritable insight into different roles, functioning, and ongoing debates, with India's military. His detailed and candid narration of the India-China confrontation in Eastern Ladakh before and after the Galwan Valley incident is very informative and exciting (and) will definitely raise the adrenaline level of every reader."The Caravan shared the link of the article on X and posted: "Going to wars can never be a purely military decision. It is taken by democratically elected political leadership..."From Rahul Gandhi’s comments and the Congress’s posts, it is apparent that he was trying to use the book to project the political leadership as indecisive during a crisis.

'What happened to our strategic autonomy?': Opposition slams Modi govt over India-US trade deal

Siddhi Gaharwar — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:05:00 +0530

New Delhi: A day after the much-awaited trade deal between India and the US was announced, the Opposition slammed the Narendra Modi government, with the Congress party posing several questions over the agreement and asking the Centre to divulge details of the pact.India and the US agreed to a trade deal under which Washington will cut the reciprocal tariff on Indian goods to 18 per cent from the current 25 per cent, President Trump said on Monday after a phone conversation with Prime Minister Modi. The US has also scrapped the additional 25 per cent tariff imposed on India over its purchase of Russian oil, but official confirmation on this is awaited.The Congress asked the Centre to take the Parliament and the entire country into confidence and share all the details of the deal. "India has the right to know details of the trade deal," it said in a post on X."Just like the ceasefire, the announcement of the trade deal was also made by US President Trump. It has been stated that the trade deal is being done 'on Modi's request'," the opposition party said.

Congress' tough questions for Modi govtQuoting Trump, the Congress said that India will reduce tariff and non tariff barriers against the United States to ‘zero’ and asked if India has agreed to completely open its market for America. "This will impact Indian industry, traders and farmers," the party said.It further pointed out that there is talk of opening the agriculture sector for America in the statement as well and asked what exactly the deal is and how the "security and interests of our farmers have been ensured."The Congress party said also said that India has agreed to stop Russian oil purchases as per Trump's statement and asked if New Delhi but will buy crude oil from America and Venezuela instead. "Has the Modi government agreed to this condition?" it asked.The Congress further said that the deal also talks about buying more goods from America and said if "that is the case, then what happened to 'Make in India'."Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari also slammed the Centre and asked what has happened to India's strategic economy.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra also targeted the Modi government and said Prime Minister Modi has given many firsts to India. She said that the announcement of the deal by Trump is "certainly a first."

India and US trade dealPrime Minister Modi on Monday said that he was delighted that "Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent." "Wonderful to speak with my dear friend President Trump today. Delighted that Made in India products will now have a reduced tariff of 18 per cent. Big thanks to President Trump on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India for this wonderful announcement," PM Modi said."President Trump's leadership is vital for global peace, stability, and prosperity. India fully supports his efforts for peace," he said on X, without mentioning many of the other issues that figured in Trump's post on social media.Trump said India will move forward to reduce "tariffs and non tariff barriers" against the US to zero, adding New Delhi would buy American goods, including energy, technology, and agricultural, worth more than USD 500 billion."Out of friendship and respect for Prime Minister Modi and, as per his request, effective immediately, we agreed to a trade deal between the United States and India, whereby the United States will charge a reduced reciprocal tariff, lowering it from 25 per cent to 18 per cent," the US President said on social media.India-US ties turn sourTrump and PM Modi held several rounds of negotiations to materialise the trade deal, but the talks hit a roadblock after Trump imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, including the 25 per cent punitive tariffs for India's procurement of Russian crude oil. The additional tariff also turned ties between India and the US sour.

Uttarakhand Weather: Rain, snow expected in six districts today; yellow alert for lightning, fog in plains

Namita Singh — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 08:13:00 +0530

Dehradun: The weather in Uttarakhand is once again turning cold and unpredictable. According to the Meteorological Department, rain and snowfall are expected in several districts today, Tuesday, February 3rd.While the higher Himalayan regions will be covered in snow, the plains will face foggy conditions.

Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Nainital, and Pithoragarh can see snowfallSnowfall is likely in the upper reaches of Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Nainital, and Pithoragarh. Rain is expected in the lower areas of these districts. Fresh snowfall is forecast above 2,800 meters, including famous peaks like Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Munsyari. This will bring cheer to tourists and skiers but also lower temperatures in the hilly regions.Yellow alert for lightning and gusty winds in Dehradun, Pauri, and NainitalLight rain is also possible in Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Almora, Champawat, and Nainital. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for lightning and gusty winds in Dehradun, Pauri, and Nainital. Thunder and lightning may also occur in other mountainous districts.Meanwhile, the plains of Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar will remain dry. However, fog is expected in the morning and evening, which could cause problems for commuters. Drivers are advised to use headlights and drive cautiously, especially on highways.Preparations are in full swing for National Winter GamesThe snowfall in Auli has kept skiers excited, as the National Winter Games are scheduled from February 12th to 16th. Preparations are in full swing, and the fresh snow has created perfect conditions for the championship.Severe cold in Kedarnath shrineAt Kedarnath, the shrine is currently buried under three feet of snow, with temperatures around minus 16 degrees Celsius. Despite the harsh conditions, police and ITBP personnel are on duty day and night to protect the temple. Interestingly, five dogs are also assisting the security forces, patrolling alongside soldiers and being cared for with food and shelter.Tourists heading to Auli, Chopta, or Pithoragarh will enjoy the snowfallThe weather forecast also carries positive signals. Tourists heading to Auli, Chopta, or Pithoragarh will enjoy the snowfall. Farmers may benefit from light rain, which could help their crops. However, travelers in the mountains should remain cautious, as snowfall can make roads slippery.Residents and tourists are advised to stay prepared with warm clothing and exercise caution while travelling.

Breaking News Live Updates: Bus falls into gorge in Kalsi, Dehradun

Mani Raj — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:46:00 +0530

Breaking News Live Updates, February 3, 2026: President Donald Trump implored the House on Monday to end the partial government shutdown, but neither Republicans nor Democrats appeared ready to quickly approve the federal funding package he brokered with the Senate without first debating their own demands over immigration enforcement operations.Democrats are refusing to provide the votes House Speaker Mike Johnson needs to push the package forward as they try to rein in the Trump administration's deportation operations after the shooting deaths of two Americans in Minneapolis. That's forcing Johnson to rely on his slim GOP majority, which has its own complaints about the package, to fall in line behind Trump's deal with Senate Democrats.Stay with TV9 English for latest news from India and around the world. 03 Feb 2026 02:39 PM (IST)

Rahul Gandhi raises doubts about India-US trade deal

We need to understand why trade deal stuck for 4 months was suddenly finalised last evening; there is huge pressure on PM Modi: Rahul Gandhi03 Feb 2026 12:49 PM (IST)

School board exams begin in Jharkhand

The class 10 final exams at Jharkhand board schools began on Tuesday morning amid tight security, an official said. The board examination for class 12 will begin later in the day, he said. Around 4.23 lakh students have enrolled for the class 10 examinations, which are happening at 1,232 centres. Over 3.24 lakh students are slated to appear in class 12 examinations at 757 centres.03 Feb 2026 12:47 PM (IST)

Iran's president seeks 'fair, equitable negotiations' with United States

Iran's president on Tuesday said he has instructed the country's foreign minister to “pursue fair and equitable negotiations” with the United States. The comments from reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian represent the first clear signal from Iran that it may take part in negotiations being organised by Turkiye.03 Feb 2026 11:33 AM (IST)

Uttarakhand: Bus falls into gorge in Kalsi area of Dehradun

A bus carrying passengers falls into a gorge in the Kalsi area of Dehradun district; Teams of SDRF are present at the accident site are carrying out search and rescue03 Feb 2026 11:08 AM (IST)

MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange Of India (NSE), Ashish Kumar Chauhan reacts to India-US trade deal

On India-US trade agreement, MD & CEO, National Stock Exchange Of India (NSE), Ashish Kumar Chauhan says, "It is a very nice outcome after almost a year of waiting...Appreciation for PM Modi for holding up and getting the best possible outcome for India...There was a need to have the US on our side...This deal puts India and the US together."03 Feb 2026 10:14 AM (IST)

300 trees planted in Israel to celebrate PM Modi's 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' initiative, Jewish Festival of Tu Bishvat

At least 300 trees were planted in Moshav Nevatim, Israel to jointly celebrated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' initiative along with the Jewish festival of Tu Bishvat, which is celebrated as an ecological awareness day in Israel. The event, which saw participation of hundreds of people, was organised by the Embassy of India in collaboration with Keren Kayemet LeIsrael and Moshav Nevatim symbolising a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, community participation, and people-to-people ties between India and Israel, a press statement released after the event said.03 Feb 2026 09:50 AM (IST)

Delhi government plans new bridge over Yamuna River to ease traffic congestion

The Delhi government is considering a proposal to construct a new bridge over the Yamuna River near the Signature Bridge or replace the old iron bridge to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the city's eastern parts, officials said. The proposal was put forth by the Trans-Yamuna Board during a recent meeting with officials of the Public Works Department. A senior government official said the plan is still at a preliminary stage and is under discussion.03 Feb 2026 09:34 AM (IST)

Leaders reach Parliament Annexe Building for the NDA Parliamentary Party meeting

The NDA Parliamentary Party meeting is set to start at 9:30 am. The Prime Minister will be congratulated at the meeting for the trade deal with the United States.BJP's Nitin Navin is also going to attend this meeting. He will also be congratulated by the party leaders for his elevation as BJP president. 03 Feb 2026 09:27 AM (IST)

Telangana BJP President terms reduction of tariff on Indian goods as a 'diplomatic victory'

On tariff on exports to the US reduced to 18%, Telangana BJP President, N Ramchander Rao says, "The reduction in tariff on made in India goods by the US administration, is a great diplomatic victory. I congratulate PM Modi and other ministers on this. This will boost our economy."03 Feb 2026 09:15 AM (IST)

3 hurt as Mercedes driven by minor boy hits car in Mumbai's Coastal Road tunnel

Three members of a family were injured after a speeding Mercedes, allegedly being driven by a 17-year-old boy, rammed into a car inside the Coastal Road tunnel in South Mumbai, police said. The accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday.The D B Marg police have registered a case against a businessman from the Agripada area, the Mercedes owner, his 18-year-old granddaughter and the latter's 17-year-old male friend, who was driving the luxury car, an official said on Monday.03 Feb 2026 08:38 AM (IST)

UP: Man kills 12-year-old son, flees after hiding body in trunk

A middle-aged man allegedly killed his 12-year-old son over marital dispute and and fled after hiding the body in a trunk here, police said on Monday. The incident took place in Jijoli village of the Makhanpur area on Monday. The accused, Rajesh, allegedly committed the crime following a prolonged domestic dispute with his wife over property, they said. According to the police, Rajesh, a resident of the village, was addicted to intoxicants and had been frequently quarrelling with his wife Urmila, who is a teacher at a private school.03 Feb 2026 08:37 AM (IST)

MP cough syrup deaths: 4-year-old dies months after being in coma in AIIMS Nagpur

A four-year-old boy died at AIIMS-Nagpur, months after he fell critically ill and slipped into a coma after allegedly consuming Coldrif cough syrup in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara district, an official said on Monday. According to the official, Harsh, from Tikabarri village of Betul district bordering Chhindwara district, had been in a coma for more than four months and was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), but died during treatment on Sunday night.03 Feb 2026 08:31 AM (IST)

Homeland Security officers in Minneapolis being issued body-worn cameras

Every Homeland Security officer on the ground, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, will be immediately issued body-worn cameras, Secretary Kristi Noem said Monday. Noem made the announcement on the social media platform X. She said the body-worn camera program is being expanded nationwide as funding becomes available.“We will rapidly acquire and deploy body cameras to DHS law enforcement across the country,” Noem said in the social media post.03 Feb 2026 08:24 AM (IST)

Tamil Nadu CM pays tributes to DMK founder CN Annadurai

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin joins a procession from Chepauk to Marina Beach to pay floral tribute at DMK Founder and former CM CN Annadurai Memorial on his 57th death anniversary.

03 Feb 2026 08:07 AM (IST)

Conservative populist Laura Fernández wins Costa Rican presidency, preliminary results show

Conservative populist Laura Fernández won Costa Rica 's presidency, promising to continue the aggressive reorienting of the Central American nation's politics started by her political sponsor, outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves. Preliminary and partial results showed the Costa Rican president's handpicked successor captured the win with a resounding first-round victory, eliminating the need for a runoff in a crowded field after Sunday's election.03 Feb 2026 08:06 AM (IST)

It will strengthen 'Make in India' endeavours, spur growth: Jaishankar on India-US trade deal

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday welcomed the India-US trade agreement, saying it will spur growth in both economies and strengthen the country's 'Make in India' endeavours. Jaishankar, who is on a three-day visit to the US to attend a Washington-led ministerial meeting on critical minerals supply chain, said he "welcomed the announcements on bilateral trade".03 Feb 2026 07:16 AM (IST)

Dense fog engulfs Delhi-NCR, commuters face problems

Delhi-NCR wakes up to a layer of dense fog in some parts this morning. Visuals from Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh.

03 Feb 2026 06:59 AM (IST)

Southern US enters second week of biting cold, prolonged outages

Four homes blasted by icy winds on an eroding North Carolina island collapsed into the ocean and Florida farmers anxiously waited for frozen plants to thaw Monday as people across the eastern half of the United States coped with more than a week of sub-freezing weather. Thermometers hovered below freezing throughout the day Monday across the northern US from the Dakotas to Maine, and sub-freezing temperatures were forecast to return to the Southeast overnight, reaching into parts of northern Florida.03 Feb 2026 06:57 AM (IST)

Elon Musk joins his rocket, AI businesses into single company before expected IPO this year

Elon Musk is joining his space exploration and artificial intelligence ventures into a single company before a massive planned initial public offering for the business later this year. His rocket venture, SpaceX, announced on Monday that it had bought xAI in an effort to help the world's richest man dominate the rocket and artificial intelligence businesses. The deal will combine several of his offerings, including his AI chatbot Grok, his satellite communications company Starlink, and his social media company X.03 Feb 2026 06:56 AM (IST)

Palestinians allowed in to Gaza, patients evacuated to Egypt as Rafah crossing reopens

A dozen Palestinian returnees were allowed into Gaza from Egypt late Monday after the long-awaited reopening of the Rafah border crossing was marred by delays. Their arrival came hours after a small group of medical evacuees was ferried from the territory into Egypt. The reopening of the crossing marked a key step in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire but mostly a symbolic one, with few people allowed to travel and no goods allowed to pass through. The limitations were apparent Monday as crossings fell well short of the 50 people officials had said would be allowed to move in each direction.03 Feb 2026 06:55 AM (IST)

Turkey seeks to broker US-Iran talks by week's end

Turkey is attempting to bring US and Iranian officials to the negotiating table in hopes of easing the threat of US military action against Iran. Neither the US nor Iran has confirmed whether they plan to take part in any negotiations. Two Turkish officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media, said Turkey is trying to organize a meeting between US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian leaders. The meeting could take place as soon as the end of the week, one of the officials said.03 Feb 2026 06:53 AM (IST)

Trump urges House to vote quickly to end partial government shutdown

President Donald Trump implored the House on Monday to end the partial government shutdown, but neither Republicans nor Democrats appeared ready to quickly approve the federal funding package he brokered with the Senate without first debating their own demands over immigration enforcement operations.Democrats are refusing to provide the votes House Speaker Mike Johnson needs to push the package forward as they try to rein in the Trump administration's deportation operations after the shooting deaths of two Americans in Minneapolis. That's forcing Johnson to rely on his slim GOP majority, which has its own complaints about the package, to fall in line behind Trump's deal with Senate Democrats.

Chennai-Bengaluru in 73 mins, Chennai-Hyderabad in 2 hour 55 mins: Vaishnaw unveils 'High-Speed Diamond Corridor'

Ram Kumar — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 18:35:00 +0530

Chennai: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has officially confirmed the transformative travel times for the newly approved high-speed rail corridors in South India, announcing that the journey between Chennai and Bengaluru will be slashed to just 73 minutes, while Chennai to Hyderabad will take approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes. Dubbing the interconnected network the "High-Speed Diamond Corridor," Vaishnaw stated that trains operating at 350 kmph will soon commence work on these routes, following the green signal in the Union Budget 2026-27.Redefining Regional Transit: Beating Air Travel on ConvenienceThe announcement solidifies a major infrastructure leap, positioning high-speed rail as a superior alternative to both existing rail and air travel. The proposed 73-minute Chennai-Bengaluru link contrasts sharply with the current 4-5 hour journey on premium trains like Shatabdi and Vande Bharat. Crucially, it targets the "effective travel time" of flights, which, despite a one-hour air time, typically requires 2-3 hours including airport logistics.The high-speed rail model, with streamlined city-center stations, aims to make the train the faster and more convenient choice, potentially revolutionizing daily commutes and business travel.Economic Engine: Fuelling South India's "Diamond" Growth CorridorThe "High-Speed Diamond Corridor" is strategically designed to integrate three of India's largest economic hubs—Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad—which are leaders in IT, automotive manufacturing, and start-ups. By connecting these megacities in under three hours, the project is expected to accelerate business synergy, spur the development of new satellite towns and commercial clusters along the route, and generate widespread employment. It also promises to decongest roads and reduce carbon emissions by diverting inter-city traffic.With preliminary surveys already reported to be underway, the formal budget allocation and ministerial announcement provide the critical impetus to move the project from planning to active implementation. The corridor is poised to become the backbone of South India's economic geography, setting a new standard for rapid, sustainable, and efficient regional connectivity.

Nainital emerges as hub of religious tourism; Kainchi Dham, Naina Devi temples rejuvenated under Manaskhand Project

Namita Singh — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:29:00 +0530

Nainital: Known for its lakes, valleys, and colonial charm, Nainital is now witnessing a new transformation. The city has rapidly emerged as a hub of religious tourism, attracting thousands of devotees every day.Once famous mainly as a summer hill station, Nainital is now a year-round destination for faith and spirituality.Thousands of devotees visit the shrine dailyThe biggest driver of this change is Kainchi Dham, the ashram of Baba Neem Karoli Maharaj. Thousands of devotees visit the shrine daily, including pilgrims from across India and abroad. This steady influx has changed the rhythm of tourism in Nainital. Hotels, taxi operators, shopkeepers, and guides are benefiting directly from the growing number of visitors.Other temples such as Naina Devi Temple, Hanumangarhi, Nanda Devi Temple, and Golu Devta Temple in Ghorakhal are also witnessing a surge in devotees. Together, these sites have given Nainital a new identity—no longer just a tourist town, but a spiritual center.Religious tourism has now reshaped the city’s tourism landscapeVed Sah, General Secretary of the Nainital Hotel Association, explained that while Nainital was once famous for summer tourism, religious tourism has now reshaped the city’s tourism landscape. Devotees visiting Kainchi Dham also travel to nearby destinations like Bhimtal, Ramgarh, Mukteshwar, and Jageshwar Dham, boosting tourism in surrounding areas.Ancient temples are being rejuvenatedA major initiative driving this transformation is the Manaskhand Project, under which ancient temples are being rejuvenated. The Naina Devi Temple is undergoing a grand facelift, with beautification work progressing rapidly. This project aims to provide better facilities for devotees while strengthening Nainital’s religious identity.Religious tourism is steadily increasing in NainitalDistrict Tourism Officer Atul Bhandari confirmed that religious tourism is steadily increasing in Nainital and nearby regions. The government is promoting this sector through several schemes. At Kainchi Dham, multi-level parking, meditation centers, and toilets are being constructed for the convenience of visitors. A bypass road has also been built to reduce traffic congestion.Growing religious tourism will strengthen the local economyBeautification work is also underway at the Ghorakhal Golu Devta Temple and Maa Naina Devi Temple. These efforts are part of a larger plan to make Nainital a major center of faith and spirituality. The administration believes that the growing religious tourism will not only strengthen the local economy but also give Nainital a new identity.Local businesses are already seeing the benefits. Hoteliers report higher occupancy throughout the year, while shopkeepers and taxi drivers note increased earnings. Religious tourism has created new opportunities for guides and service providers, ensuring that the benefits reach the grassroots level.

Nilambur strongman PV Anwar likely to contest in LDF bastion Beypore

Vivek Narayanan — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:07:00 +0530

Kozhikode: Beypore, the coastal town in Kozhikode is by all probability going to be a litmus test in the upcoming polls for the CPI(M), a constituency which is being held by Mohammed Riyaz currently. With KPCC President Sunny Joseph indicating that Anwar would be the candidate for Beypore, heated political discussions are underway on who will be the LDF candidate. The speculation of Anwar, a former CPI(M) affiliate contesting from Beypore has been going around after posters of PV Anwar being put out at various locations in Beypore. However, an official word from him nor the Congress or UDF had come out till date. However, the KPCC president himself coming up with a claim of Anwar contesting from Beypore has led to serious discussions within the CPM and its leaders in Kozhikode. Thus PV Anwar is the first candidate to be decided by the UDF in the upcoming assembly elections. Since early January he has been participating in various programmes of Congress leaders in the constituency. As per CPM sources, LDF is likely to field tourism minister PA Mohammed Riyaz from the constituency. CPM is hoping that traditional CPM votes will not shift towards Congress and the various development works initiated and conducted in the past 5 years by the LDF in the constituency will help them tide over the state-wide anti incumbency factor. PV Anwar had resigned as Nilambur MLA after severing ties with the LDF last year following a major political battle with the CPM leadership over his statements against senior CPM leaders including CPI(M) state secretary MV Govindan Master and P Shashi. Anwar had made starting allegations against the CPM leaders stating that they had political tie-up with the RSS and that many senior police officers are acting on behalf of the RSS and BJP.

CJ Roy death: Kerala CM writes to FM Sitharaman demanding judicial probe

Vivek Narayanan — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:38:00 +0530

Thiruvananthapuram: Ascertaining that the death of businessman Roy CJ during an Income Tax (I-T) Department search in Bengaluru as a blot on the country’s tax administration, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has written to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman demanding a judicial probe into the incident.Stating that an official clarification claiming that legal provisions were followed was insufficient, the Chief Minister argued that a judicial enquiry was necessary to examine the wider aspects of the case. He urged the Union Government to order such an enquiry without delay and ensure that a comprehensive report is submitted within a fixed timeframe. An impartial investigation, he said, was essential to prevent similar tragic incidents in the future.Referring to the family’s statements to the media that Roy had fully cooperated with the search and that the ‘I-T trouble was unbearable’, Vijayan said the grievances of the immediate family must be viewed with empathy. He added that the family has the right to know all the facts through an impartial enquiry.In a letter dated Sunday, the Chief Minister said the incident pointed to a serious lack of diligence, noting that it was alarming that a person present on the premises during an I-T search could gain access to a loaded firearm and shoot himself. Vijayan also referred to recent reports suggesting that Roy had been shifted to another room instead of being kept at the site of the search, calling this a grave lapse and evidence of non-compliance with essential protocol.Meanwhile, the family Dr Roy is expected to meet the press on January 3 in Bangalore and explain more about the circumstances that led to Roy taking the extreme step.The brother of CJ Roy, CJ Babu had already alleged that his brother took the extreme step following the harassment by the IT officials from Ernakulam has put the onus on the department which is already under the scanner.

Why and how conspiracy theories are swirling over Ajit Pawar’s plane crash death

Tirtho Banerjee — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:21:00 +0530

New Delhi: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash near Baramati on January 28. Soon after the crash, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee was the first to raise hackles over his death. Banerjee demanded an investigation monitored by the Supreme Court into Ajit Pawar's death, and raised questions purportedly linking the incident to his political trajectory. She had said, “Two days ago, I came to know that someone from another party had given a statement that Ajit Pawar was willing to leave the BJP (ruling alliance in Maharashtra), and now this has happened.”

What Sanjay Raut said

The political storm over Ajit Pawar's death refuses to die down, with some Opposition leaders alleging that there was a conspiracy hatched. On Monday, Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut questioned the circumstances in which the crash occurred.Raising serious doubts over the sudden and “suspicious” death of Ajit Pawar, he said “something is dubious” and a thorough investigation into the crash should be launched."Questions should be raised about Ajit Pawar's accident. These questions are being raised even within his own party. There's something fishy about this. Something must have happened behind the scenes," he said.Raut claimed that Ajit Pawar was about to reunite the two factions of the NCP and had initiated talks with his uncle and party founder Sharad Pawar in the final phase of his life. He alleged that some people were against this reconciliation, as it would have “shut their shops”.Raut reportedly said: "Ajit Pawar was about to return to his old house, but the BJP said they had the irrigation files. Then a mysterious accident occurred. Ajit Pawar made a statement a few days ago that he had some files on BJP leaders, and then accidents immediately followed. I've had my suspicions since day one. It was ingrained in my mind then. This means Ajit Pawar decided to leave the NDA. These people are suspicious. I will raise this issue in Parliament."

Speed of succession discussions questioned

Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar also raised doubts over the speed at which succession discussions reportedly started within the NCP following news of his death.Wadettiwar pointed out: "Ajit Dada's sudden death could be a conspiracy. This is a plot, and it should be probed. A conspiracy was hatched somewhere to prevent the two NCP factions from coming together, and that's why the Deputy Chief Minister's post was filled in such a hurry. Politics has become very dirty. Sunil Tatkare and Praful Patel initiated Ajit Dada's inclusion in the NDA because they wanted to sleep peacefully at night."

What's adding fuel to conspiracy theories

Ajit Pawar's last rites were performed in Baramati on Thursday (January 29), and just two days later, on January 31, Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister. There are reports that Sharad Pawar was not aware of the oath-taking ceremony of Sunetra Pawar and he was also not present in Mumbai for the event.There's buzz that a merger between the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (the Sharad Pawar group and the Ajit Pawar group) had been underway and were said to be in their final stages. Sharad Pawar had stated at a press conference that an announcement in this regard was to be made on February 12. Several leaders from the Pawar group had also confirmed the merger discussions. However, following Ajit Pawar’s death, these talks have been disrupted. His faction has now refused to comment on the proposed merger.Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed claims of merger talks. He has said that Ajit Pawar shared everything with him and that he was a witness to all developments. “We do not want to do politics over this. But if Ajit Dada was going to take any such decision, he would have discussed it with the BJP first,” Fadnavis said.As the issue heats up, a senior Nationalist Congress Party leader has reportedly made a major claim. "There was a desire among party workers, from the grassroots to the top leadership, for both factions of the NCP to come together, and discussions were primarily held in that direction," said Dr Rajendra Shingne, senior leader of the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP and a former minister.Adding more fire to the conspiracy chatter, NCP MLA Amol Mitkari pointed out that Ajit Dada’s travel route was suddenly changed at the last moment and that even the pilot was replaced abruptly. Mitkari questioned how not a single piece of paper was burnt while the bodies were charred, saying this raises several questions and fuels suspicion.Taking to X, Mitkari posted some photos and also shared memories with Dada. He said, “Even now, no one’s mind is ready to accept that Dada is gone… I will not commit the sin of politicising his death. But these questions are troubling my mind.” His post has gone viral.

In his post, he wrote: “Six people reportedly died in the accident, so why were only five bodies actually found? Where did the sixth person go? Passenger lists are digitally recorded before take-off, so why this discrepancy? Not a single piece of paper appears to have been burnt??? Why was the pilot changed so many times? Asking questions is not spreading rumors…”

Nine fishermen return to AP after being detained in Bangladesh

Pavitra — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:18:00 +0530

Nine fishermen from Vizianagaram district of Andhra Pradesh, who were detained for the last three months in Bangladesh, have returned home, tv9 telugu reported.On January 29, the Bangladesh Coast Guard handed the fishermen to their Indian counterparts, who then transferred them to local police.Allegations of crossing maritime boundary:The nine fishermen, who had gone fishing in October 2025, were detained by Bangladeshi Navy officials for inadvertently crossing the maritime boundary while fishing in Bay of Bengal. They were subsequently arrested and transferred to Bagerhat jail.Following diplomatic negotiations between India and Bangladesh, the fishermen were released and arrived on the Visakhapatnam coast on Monday, February 2. Who are the nine fishermen?The fishermen are identified as Marupalli Chinnappanna, Ramesh Appalakonda, Praveen, Ramu, Nakka Ramu, Seethaiah. Six of them are from Kondarajupalem village, Bhogapuram mandal, and three from Tippalavalasa village in Vizianagaram district.The wife of Ramesh Appalakonda, one of the affected fishermen, recently gave birth to a child. Speaking to Tv9 Telugu, Appalakonda shed tears as he recounted his ordeal.

Chitrakoot DM sets precedent, enrolls 3-year-old daughter in Anganwadi school

Tirtho Banerjee — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:19:00 +0530

New Delhi: hen most parents in India still opt for private or pre-schools for their kids, a senior official in Uttar Pradesh has admitted his child to a government-run institution. His message is clear and pronounced: public schools need trust, confidence and support.Pulkit Garg, the District Magistrate of Chitrakoot, has admitted his three-year-old daughter, Siya, in a government anganwadi centre. The move is aimed at encouraging parents to opt for government-run education services.Siya was enrolled in the playgroup at an anganwadi affiliated to a government composite school in the Naya Bazaar area of Karvi. Four days back, he reportedly personally paid a visit to the school and undertook the admission formalities.

'Ordinary parents shouldn't hesitate'

Garg was quoted as saying to Dainik Bhaskar that the quality of government education has improved significantly. He pointed out that the situation is no longer what it used to be. The quality of education has continuously improved, and there is no dearth of resources. "If an IAS officer can educate his child in a government institution, ordinary parents should not hesitate,” he said.Garg added that perceptions of government schools and anganwadi centres have improved, particularly regarding infrastructure, learning resources, and the overall environment.He also put emphasis on a child’s early years, nutrition, health, values and a safe environment. Garga said that anganwadi centres are doing a good job of providing these essentials while helping children learn and grow.

'System will become stronger only when...'

He called on parents, villagers and officials to move beyond social discrimination and put trust in the public education system. “Children here receive education along with values, safety and care. The system will become stronger only when people show faith in it,” Garg said.

After she joined the anganwadi, Siya has been actively engaged in classroom activities. Videos shared on social media show her playing with toys, participating in learning exercises, and dancing to poems alongside other children. The videos have garnered massive online attention.Garg is serving his first posting as District Magistrate and has been in Chitrakoot for around four months now.Anganwadi centres are operated under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. They provide supplementary nutrition, early education, health monitoring and opportunities for socialisation during a child’s most formative years.By enrolling his daughter, the Chitrakoot DM has ensured his daughter shares the same learning environment as thousands of children in the district. This sends across the message that quality public services deserve trust and participation from all, irrespective of status.

UP: 14-year-old boy steals family jewellery worth lakhs to feed momo addiction

Tirtho Banerjee — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:53:00 +0530

New Delhi: A 14-year-old boy allegedly stole jewellery worth lakhs of rupees from his own home to fund his addiction to momos. The weird case has emerged from Uttar Pradesh’s Deoria district.According to the police, the teenager is a resident of a village under Rampur Karkhana police station limits. They added that the boy was so badly addicted to momos that he started secretly taking gold ornaments from his home and handing them over to a momo vendor in exchange for the snack. The family didn't notice the missing jewellery for a long time until they did.

How the theft was discovered

The theft was discovered when the boy’s aunt paid a visit to her parental home to collect her jewellery and found the ornaments missing from the almirah. It was then that the family learned that the boy had been stealing the jewellery items and handing them over to a momo seller who ran a cart in Rampur town.The family members then went to the police station. As per a police official, a complaint was lodged by the family and a probe has been initiated. He reportedly added that the police has taken note of the matter and details are being verified. Police said the accused will be taken into custody.Efforts are on to trace the momo vendor. After he is nabbed, the total value of the stolen jewellery will be assessed.

'Wouldn't Ajit Dada have spoken to me?': Fadnavis dismisses NCP merger claims

Siddhi Gaharwar — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:27:00 +0530

New Delhi: Amid reports of a possible merger of two NCP factions, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis sought to dismiss the claims and said that if any such discussions were going on, late deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar would have told him. "If both factions of the NCP were discussing a merger, wouldn't Ajit Dada have spoken to me?" Fadnavis said.Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash in Pune's Baramati on January 28. Following his death, several senior leaders of both NCP factions claimed that Pawar was keen on merging the two camps and was likely to announce after February 7.Fadnavis dispels NCP merger rumoursFadnavis, however, shrugged off the ongoing discussions about a possible merger of the two factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), attempting to dispel these speculations.Speaking at a press conference at his official residence, Varsha, in Mumbai on Sunday, the Chief Minister said, “Ajit Pawar was in our government, and I had very good personal relations with him. If they were discussing a merger of the two NCP factions and had even finalised a date, wouldn't they have told me? Wouldn't they have discussed the merger with the BJP?”Ajit Pawar had in July 2024, parted ways with the Sharad Pawar-led NCP and joined the BJP-led Mahayuti government in Maharashtra along with eight MLAs, resulting in a split in the NCP.Fadnavis further clarified, “I have no information about what transpired between Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar. I also have no information about any date being finalised for a merger. I don't think it's appropriate for me to make political statements at this time. I could say a lot, but I won't.”He also said that political parties make their own decisions and the BJP does not interfere in them. He indicated that both NCP factions are currently functioning independently.NCP merger on cardsAccording to NCP sources, Ajit Pawar himself was going to make a major announcement regarding the merger of the two NCP factions after the district council election results on February 7. He was also scheduled to hold an important meeting of both NCP factions at the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratishthan in Mumbai or Pune on February 8, people close to the late leader claimed.The sources said that the talks between the two factions of the NCP regarding the merger had reached the final stage and that the leaders had made all the preparations for a formal announcement after the results of the Zilla Parishad (District Council) elections.According to sources, the municipal corporation results did not go in favour of either NCP faction, which saddened Ajit Pawar. Both NCP factions contested the civic polls in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad together, but the BJP emerged victorious with a majority in both corporations.Senior NCP leader of the Sharad Pawar faction, Rohit Pawar will hold a press conference after February 9, to clear air on merger talks, sources said. Rohit is expected to present a clear and decisive picture regarding all the speculations surrounding the merger.

Manipur NDA MLAs to meet in Delhi today as President's Rule nears end, may discuss new govt formation

Tirtho Banerjee — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:51:00 +0530

New Delhi: The six-month extension of President’s Rule in the state is set to end soon. Ahead of it, in a major development, nearly all legislators of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Manipur, its allies and the state BJP chief rushed to New Delhi on Sunday. A high-level meeting is to be held on Monday.It was on May 3, 2023 that crisis in Manipur broke out, which killed more than 260 people and left over 60,000 displaced. Chief Minister N Biren Singh had to quit on February 9, 2025.On February 13 last year, following threats by legislators to move a no-confidence motion, President’s Rule was imposed. This put the state under suspended animation.The President’s Rule was extended for another six months. It is set to end on February 12. With the deadline drawing close, speculation is growing across the state about the formation of a new popular government.

'All NDA legislators summoned'

Talking to reporters at Imphal international airport before departing for New Delhi, BJP MLA and former CM N Biren Singh said that all the NDA alliance partner legislators have been summoned to attend a meeting scheduled on Monday. "We have a recent meeting with the BJP legislators that has huge development. This time all the legislators of NDA have been summoned so it is much likely for new government formation,” he reportedly pointed out.National People’s Party (NPP) legislator Janghemlung Panmei reportedly said, “We will push for good things to happen for Manipur again... but we will only get to know the next steps after the meeting.”BJP state president A Sharda Devi was also confident that the meeting on Monday will ensure that a positive step is taken towards the formation of a new popular government. NDA legislators are likely to discuss the formation of a new government during the Monday meeting and the Kuki-Zo legislators might also attend it.The Manipur Assembly comprises 60 members. Out of these, the BJP holds 32 seats, the NPP seven, JD(U) six, NPF five, KPA two, and the Indian National Congress five. There are three independent MLAs in the Assembly.

Breaking News Live Updates: SC issues notices to Centre, 12 states on PIL

Surarika Das,Subhajit Dasgupta — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:36:00 +0530

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday presented the Union Budget for 2026–27, marking her ninth straight budget presentation in Parliament. The BJP termed the budget, a decisive move toward building a developed India and hit out at the Opposition for branding it 'lacklustre' and 'hollow'. The ruling party said it did not need validation from critics, asserting that the public reposes trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 02 Feb 2026 08:44 PM (IST)

BJP appoints Tarun Chugh as the central observer in Manipur

BJP Parliamentary Board has appointed Tarun Chugh, the National General Secretary, as the central observer for the election of the leader of the legislative party in Manipur.

02 Feb 2026 08:19 PM (IST)

UK expels Russian diplomat

Britain's government said Monday it revoked the accreditation of a Russian diplomat in response to Moscow's decision to expel a British diplomat last month over allegations of spying.The Foreign Office said it summoned Russian ambassador Andrey Kelin to condemn “Russia's unprovoked and unjustified decision” and “baseless accusations" against British embassy staff.02 Feb 2026 06:40 PM (IST)

Yogi Adityanath assures financial aid for medical treatment

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday directed officials to ensure the swift redressal of public grievances during a 'janata darshan' held at his official residence in Lucknow.02 Feb 2026 06:01 PM (IST)

Jharkhand CM urges tribals to educate children

Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R Ashoka, on Monday alleged that the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government is "immersed in corruption", adding that the administration in the state is in a "coma".02 Feb 2026 04:47 PM (IST)

Fire breaks out at furniture factory in Palghar

A fire broke out at a furniture manufacturing unit in the industrial area of Maharashtra's Palghar city on Monday, officials said. There were no casualties in the blaze, as all personnel were evacuated safely from the factory in the Bidco industrial area, they said.02 Feb 2026 03:28 PM (IST)

SC issues notices to Centre, 12 states on PIL by Christian body

The Supreme Court on Monday sought responses from the Centre and 12 states, including Rajasthan and Arunachal Pradesh, on a fresh PIL filed by the National Council of Churches in India challenging the validity of their respective anti-conversion laws.02 Feb 2026 02:25 PM (IST)

Telangana BJP President accuses former CM KCR of being involved in phone tapping, not allowing probe

On the alleged phone tapping case, Telangana BJP President N Ramchander Rao says," The phone tapping issue in Telangana is nothing but a drama by BRS and the Congress. Phone tapping is a serious offence. KCR and his team indulged in phone tapping, which is an offence. Why is the government slow to probe this? Why have KCR, KTR, and Harish Rao not been named as accused yet? Are there serious lapses in the investigation? Both Congress and BRS are hand in glove. 02 Feb 2026 02:25 PM (IST)

`Gaza's crucial Rafah crossing prepares for limited travel to resume Monday

Palestinians in Gaza watched with hope and impatience Sunday as workers laid the groundwork to reopen the territory's Rafah border crossing with Egypt, its lifeline to the world. Israel says the crossing is scheduled to resume Monday as its ceasefire with Hamas moves ahead. “Opening the crossing is a good step, but they set a limit on the number of people allowed to cross, and this is a problem,” said Ghalia Abu Mustafa, a woman from Khan Younis.02 Feb 2026 02:24 PM (IST)

Kennedy Center will close for 2 years for renovations in July: Trump after performers' backlash

President Donald Trump said Sunday he will move to close Washington's Kennedy Center performing arts center for two years starting in July for construction, his latest move to upturn the storied venue since returning to the White House. Trump's announcement on social media follows a wave of cancellations by leading performers and groups since the president ousted the previous leadership and added his name to the building. Trump made no mention in his post of the recent cancellations.02 Feb 2026 08:47 AM (IST)

Kolkata violence: ‘Bengal ruled by thugs and mafia, govt has no control’, alleges BJP’s Dilip Ghosh

On violence erupting in Kolkata last evening near Golpark, BJP leader Dilip Ghosh says, "The entire state of Bengal is ruled by thugs, criminals, and the mafia. The police are also in cahoots with them, and the government has no control whatsoever... Consequently, they fight amongst themselves over territory, causing suffering to the public, destroying homes, and killing innocent people. All of this is beyond Mamata Banerjee's control. As long as this government remains in power, there is no possibility of stopping this."02 Feb 2026 08:46 AM (IST)

'Bird flu confirmed after crow deaths; sanitisation and serosurveillance underway', says Dr Anjali Kumari Sinha

Dr Anjali Kumari Sinha says, "On 17th January, we received information about the death of several crows here. Upon receiving the information, our rapid response team from Bhagalpur came here, and the carcasses were buried in the ground. The area was sanitised. Sanitisation was done later once again. Still, the carcass was sent to Patna from where it was sent to Kolkata. We received confirmation of bird flu from the Government of India...After confirmation, our rapid response team became active once again. Our team from Patna will come once again tomorrow, if any bird is found dead, they will be disposed off and sanitisation will be done. Infected zones will be fully sanitised. Serosurveillance of poultry farms will be done. There is no need to panic; a serosurveillance was done recently as well but there was no positive case. Crows are wild birds, so maybe they carried an infection..."02 Feb 2026 08:44 AM (IST)

Union Budget 2026 lays foundation for ‘Viksit Bharat’; Rajasthan Budget aligned with Vision 2047: Dy CM Diya Kumari

On #UnionBudget2026, Rajasthan Dy CM Diya Kumari says, "... This budget has been presented with the aim of laying the foundation for 'Viksit Bharat' by giving momentum to the economy... The dream of seeing India as a major global power will also be realised for every Indian."On the state budget, she says, "... The budget we have prepared this time will be based entirely on our vision of what kind of Rajasthan we want to see in 2047..."02 Feb 2026 08:42 AM (IST)

Earthquake of 4.7 magnitude hits Jammu-Kashmir's Baramulla

An earthquake of 4.7 Richter scale jolted Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla in the early hours of Monday.

Uttarakhand weather: Heavy snowfall prediction in five districts, rain in Dehradun-Nainital; yellow alert for thunder

Namita Singh — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 07:58:00 +0530

Dehradun: Uttarakhand is experiencing severe winter weather, with heavy snowfall and rain forecast across several districts. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for lightning and thunder in some areas, urging residents to remain cautious.Mountains have been witnessing snowfall for the past several days, increasing the cold. On Sunday, the weather turned bad in the morning with drizzle and strong winds.

Snowfall forecast in high-altitude districtsThe Meteorological Centre has forecast heavy snowfall in high-altitude areas of Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar at altitudes of 2,800 meters or more by 5 pm today. The State Emergency Operations Centre has written to the District Magistrates of these five districts, advising people living in high-altitude areas to move to lower places for a day or two. District officials have been instructed to remain extra vigilant and ensure safety measures.Sunshine and rain alternated throughout the day in DehradunIn Dehradun, sunshine and rain alternated throughout the day. While showers in the plains provided some relief from rising temperatures, there was no significant drop. In contrast, snowfall in the hilly areas has sharply reduced temperatures.Mussoorie was covered with dense clouds since morning on Sunday. Rain began after noon, followed by snowfall in the late evening. The maximum temperature in Mussoorie was recorded at just 5 degrees Celsius. With the drop in temperature, residents were seen warming themselves by bonfires at crossroads and marketplaces.Rain in Dehradun and NainitalAlongside snowfall in the higher regions, light to very light rain is expected in Dehradun and Nainital. Light snowfall may also occur in areas above 2,800 meters in these districts. Other districts of the state are likely to experience dry weather.Snowfall has disrupted normal lifeThe continuous snowfall has disrupted normal life in many hilly regions, affecting transport and daily activities. Tourists visiting Mussoorie and other hill stations are enjoying the snow, but authorities have urged caution due to slippery roads and cold conditions.Weather impactThe changing weather cycle has made winters harsher in Uttarakhand. Snowfall in the mountains and rain in the plains are expected to continue for the next few days. Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors during heavy snowfall and avoid unnecessary travel in high-altitude regions.

Budget 2026 Highlights for Tamil Nadu: High-speed rail, minerals hub & tourism push announced

Ram Kumar — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 12:55:00 +0530

New Delhi: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget 2026-27 unveiled a cluster of strategic announcements for Tamil Nadu, spanning infrastructure, industry, and tourism. The announcements, made ahead of the state's imminent Assembly elections, include major connectivity projects and sectoral investments aimed at bolstering the state's economic landscape.Key Infrastructure & Connectivity: Chennai Gets High-Speed Rail Links, New Mineral CorridorThe budget presented two transformative rail projects for Tamil Nadu's capital:A new high-speed rail corridor connecting Hyderabad and Chennai.A high-speed rail link between Chennai and Bengaluru.Additionally, Tamil Nadu was named as one of four states (along with Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha) selected for the establishment of a dedicated mineral corridor and resource centre for the extraction of rare minerals, potentially boosting the state's mining and industrial sector.Tourism & Culture: Podhigai Hills Trekking, Adichanallur Centre & Pulicat Lake Rail AccessSignificant focus was placed on enhancing Tamil Nadu's tourism and cultural footprint:Development of trekking tourism in the Podhigai Hills.Establishment of a new cultural centre at the ancient archaeological site of Adichanallur.Introduction of special rail services to the Pulicat Lake bird sanctuary on the TN-AP border, promoting eco-tourism.MSME & Agriculture: ₹1,000 Crore for Cluster Revitalisation, Coconut Production BoostIn a move benefiting Tamil Nadu's extensive small-scale industrial base, a ₹1,000 crore allocation was announced to revitalize 2000 industrial clusters nationwide and support MSME growth. A separate scheme to increase coconut production in Tamil Nadu and other states was also declared, targeting the agricultural sector.With the Tamil Nadu elections a few months away, these announcements are seen as a significant push by the Central government to address key development demands in the state, ranging from modern infrastructure and job creation through MSME support to the promotion of its cultural and natural heritage.

Breaking News Live Updates: Trump tells DHS not to step into protests in Democratic cities without local request

Surarika Das — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 07:17:00 +0530

US President Donald Trump on Saturday instructed the Department of Homeland Security not to intervene in "protests or riots" on Democratic-led cities unless local authorities request federal assistance, amid brewing criticism over his administration's use of aggressive immigration enforcement measures. The US President announced this in a post on Truth Social.01 Feb 2026 07:46 AM (IST)

Rajasthan: 2 dead, 1 injured after oxygen cyclinder explodes at Jaipur factory

At least two people were killed, and one worker was injured in a powerful explosion at a factory in Jaipur on Saturday, police said.The blast occurred when an oxygen cylinder exploded at a unit located in the Vishwakarma Industrial Area. The impact of the explosion blew off the tin shed of the factory and brought down one of its walls.01 Feb 2026 07:44 AM (IST)

I have quit Congress, says Navjot Kaur, slams party's Punjab unit chief warring

Congress leader Navjot Kaur Sidhu on Saturday said she has quit the party, while hitting out at its Punjab unit chief, Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, for allegedly "damaging" the organisation and calling him "the most horrific, incapable, corrupt president ever".Kaur was suspended by the Congress from its primary membership last month, after she sparked a political row with her "Rs 500 crore for the chief minister's chair" remark.Kaur is the wife of former Punjab Congress chief and former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu.01 Feb 2026 07:30 AM (IST)

Missing child found dead in Indore; body recovered from accused’s flat

Indore, Madhya Pradesh: MIG Police Station in-charge Chandrabhal Singh said, "A child had not returned home since last night, so his family filed a kidnapping complaint. The police were searching for him. This morning, the deceased child's jacket was found on the roof of an apartment building. We arrived here and searched the area, but the body was not found anywhere... All the houses were searched, and people were questioned... The accused, Rehan, was roaming around with us, so we became suspicious of him and questioned him. He seemed suspicious to us... Then we searched his flat, and we recovered the child's body from a storage compartment under the bed... All aspects are being investigated. Whoever is involved will be made an accused..." 01 Feb 2026 07:29 AM (IST)

Woman shot dead by unidentified assailant in Uttarakhand

A woman was shot dead by an unidentified assailant last night in Uttarakhand's Rishikesh area.SP Rural, Jaya Baluni says, "We recieved information around 9:30 pm that a woman has been shot at in Shivaji Nagar. When the police reached the scene, the woman was found seriously injured. She was sent to the hospital immediately, where she was declared dead. All angles are being investigated..."01 Feb 2026 07:29 AM (IST)

'Panchayat polls in Himachal Pradesh to be completed by April 30': State Election Commissioner

himla, Himachal Pradesh: On the Himachal Pradesh Panchayat elections 2026, State Election Commissioner Anil Kumar Khachi says, "...This matter was pending in court, and therefore the elections were delayed. On January 9, the court issued clear orders regarding this. These orders stated that the reservation roster and any reorganisation, including the formation of new panchayats or the restructuring of existing ones, should be completed, and the reservation roster should be issued by February 28. Following this, the elections should be completed by April 30... From our side, the delimitation of all panchayats had been completed. Delimitation had been completed for 11 out of 12 Zila Parishads (District Councils). Delimitation had been completed for 90 out of 92 Panchayat Samitis (Block Development Committees), but there was another case in court regarding the delimitation of the Zila Parishads... Therefore, the delimitation of the Zila Parishads has to be done again... On January 20, we held a meeting with the Panchayati Raj Department... I informed them about the High Court's orders and expressed the hope that action would be taken according to the orders so that the election process can be completed on time..."

India–Arab meet flags Gaza peace plan, regional conflicts and terror as shared concerns

Adan Khan — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 22:55:00 +0530

New Delhi: India and Arab League countries on Saturday underscored common priorities ranging from advancing a Gaza peace plan to addressing conflicts in Sudan and Yemen, while stressing joint action to improve security and stability across West Asia.At the India–Arab foreign ministers’ meeting, only the second since the inaugural edition in 2016, delegates from 19 Arab League members, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kuwait and Qatar, reviewed a rapidly shifting regional landscape marked by conflict and geopolitical churn.Leaders attending the meeting also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who described the Arab world as part of India’s “extended neighbourhood”, bound by deep civilisational links and shared goals. “Confident that enhanced cooperation in technology, energy, trade and innovation will unlock new opportunities and take the partnership to new heights,” he said on social media.

Gaza and regional flashpoints

External affairs minister S Jaishankar said pushing forward a comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict, anchored in United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803, remains a widely shared objective. “Various countries have made policy declarations on the peace plan, individually or collectively,” he said.Jaishankar noted that changes driven by politics, economics, technology and demography are reshaping the global order, with West Asia seeing especially sharp shifts over the past year. “Nowhere is this more apparent than in West Asia or the Middle East, where the landscape itself has undergone a dramatic change in the last year. This obviously impacts all of us, and India as a proximate region,” he said.

Sudan, Yemen and maritime security

Beyond Gaza, India highlighted other pressing crises. Jaishankar said the conflict in Sudan is “exacting a deadly toll on its society”, while instability in Yemen carries consequences for maritime safety and global shipping lanes.He also drew attention to Lebanon—where India contributes troops to UNIFIL—and to Libya’s stalled national dialogue. Developments in Syria, he added, remain critical to the region’s broader well-being, making it imperative to reinforce forces of stability, peace and prosperity.

Zero tolerance on terrorism

Terrorism was identified as a shared threat facing India and Arab countries. Jaishankar called for uncompromising action. “Cross-border terrorism is particularly unacceptable because it violates the basic principles of international relations and diplomacy,” he said, adding that societies targeted by terrorism have the right to defend themselves and that stronger global cooperation is essential.

Trade, energy and new-age sectors

India’s partnerships with Arab League members span energy security, trade and people-to-people ties, Jaishankar said, noting the presence of some of India’s largest expatriate communities in the region. West Asia hosts nearly 10 million Indians, largely in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, while Iraq and Saudi Arabia rank among India’s top oil suppliers alongside Russia.Looking ahead to 2026–28, the two sides mapped cooperation in traditional areas such as energy, agriculture, tourism and human resource development, as well as emerging sectors including digital technologies, space, startups and innovation. India also signalled interest in deeper counter-terrorism collaboration and parliamentary exchanges, and in sharing its experience in people-centric tech applications.Ahead of the ministerial meeting, India and Arab partners launched the India–Arab Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture to further expand trade and investment links.

Offered Rs 18 LPA, paid Rs 6 LPA: Founder flags how startups inflate CTC numbers

Adan Khan — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 19:44:00 +0530

New Delhi: A flashy cost-to-company (CTC) number may look impressive, but it often hides how much money an employee will actually take home. This gap between promise and reality was recently highlighted by Sahil Thakur, founder of BlockseBlock, in a LinkedIn post that struck a chord with young professionals.Thakur shared the experience of one of his students who received a job offer from a startup quoting a salary of Rs 18 lakh per annum (LPA). At first glance, the figure appeared unusually high for a fresher. But a closer look at the salary structure told a very different story.

What the Rs 18 LPA really included

According to Thakur, only Rs 6 LPA of the offer was a fixed base salary. The remaining Rs 12 LPA was spread across bonuses and equity that were dependent on multiple conditions and timelines, making them uncertain rather than assured income.

Performance targets few can reach

A significant portion of the package, Rs 4 LPA, was tied to a performance bonus. This bonus would be paid only if the employee achieved 120% of their targets. As Thakur pointed out, “The catch is that targets are set by the manager and structured so that only around 10 per cent of people actually meet them.”

Retention bonus and long waiting period

Another Rs 3 LPA was classified as a retention bonus, payable only if the employee stayed with the company for two years. Thakur noted that this condition alone made the payout unlikely, adding, “Most people quit within 18 months.”

ESOPs: high on paper, uncertain in reality

The remaining Rs 5 LPA came in the form of Employee Stock Options (ESOPs). These options were calculated based on the startup’s current valuation and were set to vest over four years. However, their real value would exist only if the company eventually went public or was acquired. Without such an event, the ESOPs could effectively be worthless.Breaking down the numbers, Thakur concluded, “So what the candidate really gets is Rs 50,000 per month. That’s Rs 6 LPA. Not Rs 18 LPA.” He summed up the structure bluntly, saying the offer guaranteed Rs 6 LPA, while the remaining Rs 12 LPA was “imaginary.”Thakur criticised companies for inflating CTC figures using hard-to-achieve bonuses and speculative equity. “Rs 18 LPA looks far better than Rs 6 LPA. Most freshers don’t ask for a detailed breakup - they just see the big number and say yes,” he wrote. His advice to the student was equally stark: “You’re not making Rs 18 LPA. You’re making Rs 6 LPA with a lottery ticket.”The post triggered widespread discussion online, with several professionals sharing similar experiences. One user recalled, “The ESOPs remind me of my old company where the founder promised ESOP to every cofounding team member, including me, but we never got it.” Another added, “Forget about freshers, there is a decent % of laterals who don’t know their CTC breakup.”

Breaking News Live Updates: Donald Trump imposes fresh sanctions on Iran amid protests

Surarika Das,Adan Khan — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 07:22:00 +0530

The US on Friday imposed fresh sanctions on Iran's Interior Minister Eskander Momeni and several other officials, citing Tehran's violent response to recent anti-establishment protests. Revealing the measures, US Treasury Department said Momeni "oversees the murderous Law Enforcement Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran(LEF), a major entity responsible for the deaths of thousands of peaceful protests."
31 Jan 2026 10:34 PM (IST)

UP minister hits out at Shankaracharya over cow slaughter claims

Dharmpal Singh on Saturday accused Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati of lying about cow slaughter to create confusion in Uttar Pradesh. Singh said cow slaughter and beef export are completely banned in the state, with only buffalo meat, pork and mutton exported legally. He said thousands of illegal slaughterhouses have been shut since 2017 and rejected the seer’s demands as misleading, asserting the government does not recognise him as Shankaracharya.31 Jan 2026 07:52 PM (IST)

Rajasthan govt creating jobs, boosting rural welfare: CM Bhajanlal Sharma

Rajasthan chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Saturday said his government has created an environment that generates employment for youth, supports farmers and improves livelihoods of the poor. Addressing a Gram Utthan Shivir in Tonk, he said 941 such camps have benefited lakhs of rural residents. Sharma highlighted the VB-G RAM G scheme, which guarantees 125 days of rural employment with transparency through technology.31 Jan 2026 05:58 PM (IST)

Catholic school managements protest in Kerala over unfilled disability quot

Leaders of Catholic churches and aided school managements on Saturday protested outside the state secretariat, demanding permission to appoint general category teachers when posts reserved for persons with disabilities remain vacant.31 Jan 2026 05:17 PM (IST)

Punjab BJP thanks PM Modi ahead of visit, slams Mann govt over law and order

A day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Punjab, the state BJP core committee on Saturday passed two resolutions—one thanking him for the visit and another condemning the Punjab government over law and order. The BJP said Modi’s visit to Dera Ballan on Guru Ravidas Jayanti would strengthen communal harmony. Party chief Sunil Jakhar alleged bomb threats in Jalandhar exposed the failure of the Bhagwant Mann government and accused it of curbing media freedom. He also termed Mann a “proxy” CM and attacked Arvind Kejriwal, claiming the AAP has damaged Punjab and will be voted out.31 Jan 2026 04:17 PM (IST)

Indian Coast Guard marks 50 years, force set to expand to 200 ships by 2030

The Indian Coast Guard, raised in 1977 with just seven platforms, has grown into a formidable force with 155 ships and 80 aircraft. As it marks its 50th Raising Day on Sunday, the ICG said it has rescued over 11,800 lives and safeguards India’s vast coastline and EEZ. By 2030, it aims to induct 200 ships and 100 aircraft, strengthening maritime security and global partnerships.31 Jan 2026 03:18 PM (IST)

PDP protests attacks on Kashmiris, alleges police blocked peaceful march

The People's Democratic Party on Saturday staged a protest in Srinagar against attacks on Kashmiris outside the Valley. Party workers gathered at the PDP headquarters near Sher-e-Kashmir Park but were stopped by police from marching onto the main road. Srinagar district president Abdul Qayoom Bhat accused authorities of silencing peaceful protest while attackers roam free, questioning the silence of Omar Abdullah and the Centre. The protest ended peacefully.31 Jan 2026 01:11 PM (IST)

Colonel Douglas Macgregor criticises Gaza Peace Board, questions Pakistan’s role

On Pakistan being one of the founding members of the Gaza Peace Board, Colonel Douglas Macgregor (Retd), a former U.S. Army officer, says, "... The board of peace is a large exercise in graft and corruption. President Trump has appointed himself the chairman of the board for life. And he's bringing in his billionaire friends, who are creating an enormous slush fund with no accountability and no obligation to respond to anyone. This doesn't have much to do with Gaza. If you read most of it, Gaza's never mentioned. It only comes up in a certain subsection. This is all about a group of excessively rich people who want to be richer yet... Gaza is a tragedy and an atrocity. We should be ashamed of ourselves for supporting it. But you have to look again at the people surrounding President Trump. Who are they and the enormous wealth they represent? These are financial capitalists... I think Pakistan is much like Egypt, many countries. They say, let's pay the entrance fee, so at least we're in on the graft. Let's be part of this, so at least we know what's being done. That's all. It's not a question of do they support the partitioning or the ethnic cleansing of Gaza... That's about it. I don't think the Pakistanis are serious at all about whatever we want to do."31 Jan 2026 01:09 PM (IST)

'Sunetra Pawar should be Deputy CM': Chhagan Bhujbal

On reports of Sunetra Pawar to be Deputy CM, Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujbal says, "It is good. People want it, and our MLAs are also demanding the same. This is absolutely right. Under the current circumstances, Sunetra taai should indeed be the Leader of Legislative Party and Deputy CM..."On NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar's statement, he says, "I don't know what was said by whom..."31 Jan 2026 01:08 PM (IST)

Budget 2026: Rohit Garg calls for tax predictability to boost foreign investor confidence

On Union Budget 2026, Partner at Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, Rohit Garg says, "... India is transitioning towards the adoption of the new Indian Income Tax Act starting from 1st April 2026.... There have been tax rulings from the Supreme Court of India that have shaken the confidence of the foreign community... My expectation from the Finance Minister is that, when she presents the budget, at least some predictability and certainty should be provided to foreign investors..."On the India-EU trade deal, he says, "India-EU trade deal is actually a path-breaking trade deal... All the foreign investors are saying, we are working on it, we want to come to India, we want to make an investment in India, but this tax cost, we want to bear it, but predictability should be provided."31 Jan 2026 08:50 AM (IST)

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar seeks CBI probe into NEET student’s murder in Patna

"Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar has urged the Government of India to hand over the investigation of the NEET student's murder case in Patna to the CBI. The incident must be thoroughly uncovered in a transparent and just manner," tweets Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary31 Jan 2026 07:34 AM (IST)

Congress MP Imran Masood defends Gaurav Gogoi, slams Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

On Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma's remarks against Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi, Congress MP Imran Masood says, "Gaurav Gogoi is a three-time MP... His father was a four-time CM of Assam... I highly doubt your nationalism with the kind of statements you make..."31 Jan 2026 07:32 AM (IST)

Confident group chairman suicide case: Brother says no issues other than income tax matter

Confident Group Chairman C.J. Roy suicide case | In Bengaluru, CJ Babu, brother of C.J. Roy says, "...I have to meet the family to discuss about the cremation."When asked if he has any other kind of suspicion, he says, "No other...Other than Income Tax issue, he had no other issues. That I am very sure of. He didn't have threats or loans. But I don't know what happened with the Income Tax. I will have to go and find out...Let the truth come out. Let us see what will happen...I last spoke with him at 10.40 am yesterday. He called me twice...I will see what the other office staff have to say, I will meet them and get back to you."31 Jan 2026 07:31 AM (IST)

Indo-Arab chamber integration to boost strategic India–Arab business ties: Arab chambers secretary general

Secretary General of the Union of Arab Chambers, Khaled M. Hanafy, says, "The Indo-Arab Chamber is considered the 17th in our joint Arab Foreign Chamber... I think that integrating this 17th chamber will enable us to have more business relations with India in the Arab countries... The idea here is that we are not just seeking more trade exports and imports. We're talking about a strategic alliance between Indians and Arabs, with projects that could be located in the Arab countries and in India and target many other markets, not just target each other's markets." (30.01)

PM Modi announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia to families of those killed in Kolkata fire tragedy

Swapnajit Kundu — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:34:00 +0530

New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi announced on Friday an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the families of those killed in the warehouse fire in West Bengal's Anandapur. Also, the PM announced Rs 50,000 to those injured.Taking to X, PM Modi said, "The recent fire mishap in Anandapur, West Bengal, is very tragic and saddening. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those injured recover at the earliest." He added, "An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000."

What happened in the deadly fire?

At around 3 am on Monday, a fire broke out at the warehouse of Pushpanjali Decorators in West Bengal. It quickly spread to the adjoining warehouse operated by Wow Momo!, engulfing both buildings. The fire has reportedly killed 25 people so far. Kolkata Police have arrested Wow Momo!'s warehouse manager, Raja Chakraborty, and deputy manager, Manoranjan Sheetv.

BJP attacks TMC

Meanwhile, the BJP has demanded the West Bengal Fire Minister's resignation and called for accountability of the Mamata Banerjee government. The incident happened earlier this week. Senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Friday led a procession of hundreds of party supporters, demanding the arrest of the owners of Wow Momo!.Adhikari alleged that the ruling TMC was protecting those behind the tragedy and showing insensitivity. He attacked Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and said that she is yet to visit the site, even five days after the incident, while rescue and search operations were still underway.

Actor Jayaram questioned by SIT in connection with Sabarimala gold theft case

Vivek Narayanan — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:59:00 +0530

Sabarimala: In a major twist in the Sabarimala gold case, actor Jayaram has been questioned by the special investigation team (SIT). As per sources the questioning continued for three hours.Jayaram had earlier spoken about his association with Unnikrishnan Potty when the Sabarimala gold case came to the limelight.The SIT questioned the actor recently at his residence in Chennai about the number of times he participated poojas with Unnikrishnan Potty, the prime accused in the case, and whether there were any financial transactions between them, sources said.The SIT is investigating two cases related to the loss of gold from the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols and the doorframes of the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) of the temple.The actor was questioned following circulation of videos showing him participating in a puja organised in Chennai in 2019 by Mr. Potti with the artefacts taken from the temple for gold plating.Former Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) administrative officers B. Murari Babu and S. Sreekumar, who were arrested in connection with the cases, were recently released on statutory bail in the matter.They were granted statutory bail as the SIT has not filed its chargsheet within the stipulated 90 days period after the arrest of the accused. Mr. Sreekumar has not been arrayed as an accused in the second case involving the loss of gold from the door-frames of Sreekovil.Mr. Potti has got statutory bail in one of the cases and is therefore, still in jail. The SIT has arrested 12 people, including two TDB presidents, in connection with the cases.

Chennai makes microchips licences mandatory for cattle to control stray menace

Ram Kumar — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:21:00 +0530

Chennai: In a significant move to tackle the perennial problem of stray cattle on roads, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has passed a resolution mandating compulsory microchipping and licensing for all cows and buffaloes within city limits. The decision, taken at the Council meeting on Friday (January 30, 2026), aims to hold owners accountable, reduce accidents, and ease traffic disruptions caused by freely roaming animals.New GCC Rule: How the Cattle Microchipping and Licensing System Will WorkUnder the new regulation, cattle owners across all 15 zones must implant a microchip in their animals and obtain a licence from the corporation. The microchip will store vital details including the animal's breed, age, colour, health status, and the owner's name, address, and contact information. This will allow civic officials to instantly identify the owner of any stray cattle caught on the streets. A parallel licensing system will be enforced, with fines imposed on owners who let their unlicensed or unchipped cattle loose in public spaces.Addressing a Recurring Problem: From Unidentified Owners to Direct AccountabilityCorporation officials highlighted that the existing practice of impounding stray cattle and imposing fines was often ineffective due to the difficulty in identifying owners. The new system is designed to eliminate this loophole, enabling authorities to easily track repeat offenders and take stricter action. The GCC stated that the measure is primarily driven by increasing public complaints about traffic hazards, accidents, and safety risks posed by stray cattle, with the goal of finding a "permanent solution."Mixed Reactions: Cattle Owners Worry About Cost and ComplianceWhile the civic body frames the policy as a step towards better urban management and public safety, it has sparked concern among cattle owners. Many have raised apprehensions about the cost of microchipping, the complexity of registration procedures, and the fear of penalties. The GCC has advised owners to complete the required formalities promptly to avoid fines.This move follows a similar mandate for pet dog licensing and microchipping, reflecting the corporation's broader strategy to use digital tracking for better animal and civic management in the metropolis. The success of the initiative will hinge on effective implementation, owner cooperation, and sustained enforcement.

Newly wed couple apologise for photoshoot at Tirumala Tirupati Temple

Pavitra — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 13:38:00 +0530

Tirumala Tirupati Temple: A newly-wed couple from Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu had to issue an apology for conducting a photoshoot on the premises of Tirumala Tirupati Temple.The couple identified as Tirumal and Gayathri, got married at Kalyana Vedika in Tirumala, located within the premises of the Sri Venkateswara Swamy temple. Later, the couple posed for photos at Gollamandapam, in violation of rules.Unaware of the ban on photography inside the temple, they expressed regret and promptly deleted the images once informed of the rules.As penance for their mistake, the couple expressed their willingness to serve through Sri Vari Seva (service to Lord Venkateswara). They expressed their desire to atone for their mistake through devotional service.Alipiri mandapam development:Meanwhile, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) has initiated measures for the preservation of ancient structures and is making efforts to protect ancient structures, night shelters, and staircases in the Tirumala area.The TTD has established a Conservation and Preservation Cell within its engineering department. As part of this initiative, it is restoring the Padala Mandapam in Tirupati to its former glory and has undertaken restoration works.

Assam govt to make SIT report on Gaurav Gogoi’s alleged 'Pakistan links' public on Feb 8

Digjyoti — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:42:00 +0530

New Delhi: The Assam Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, has officially scheduled the release of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) report probing alleged links between Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi and Pakistan.The findings are set to be disclosed during a high-profile press conference on February 8 at 10:30 AM in Guwahati, with both national and international media invited to attend.Following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, CM Sarma confirmed that the state government is committed to full transparency regarding the investigation. While the cabinet reportedly discussed the SIT probe informally during the evening session, the Chief Minister later formalized the announcement, stating that the public has a right to judge the facts for themselves."The government has nothing to hide. We believe in placing all relevant information before the citizens. The truth will prevail once the report is disclosed," Dr. Sarma told reporters.The investigation reportedly focuses on alleged connections involving: Gaurav Gogoi, Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.Elizabeth Gogoi, wife of the Congress leader and Ali Taqueer Sheikh, a Pakistan-based individual. The Chief Minister has intensified his rhetoric in recent weeks, claiming that Gogoi’s political positions and public remarks reflect a "mindset focused on Pakistan." This narrative has sparked a fierce political firestorm in the state.The Congress party has hit back, dismissing the probe as a "politically motivated" attempt to smear opposition leaders ahead of upcoming political battles. Gaurav Gogoi has vehemently denied the allegations, characterizing them as a tactic to deflect public attention from the state government’s governance failures.The Congress party accused the BJP of weaponizing state machinery and questioned the timing of the SIT’s formation. The ruling BJP party members maintain the probe is a matter of "national security and public accountability."The disclosure on February 8 is expected to be a landmark moment in Assam’s political landscape, potentially shifting the trajectory of the ongoing confrontation between the BJP and the Congress.

Uttarakhand’s conversion law faces setbacks: 7 years, 62 cases, 5 full trials, all ending in acquittals

Namita Singh — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:34:00 +0530

Dehradun: In 2018, the Uttarakhand government passed the Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion Act (UFRA) to stop what it called “forced religious conversions.” The law was later strengthened in 2022 and again in 2025, with stricter punishments and longer jail terms. But nearly seven years later, court records show that the law is struggling to stand in court.An investigation by The Indian Express, based on records obtained through 30 Right to Information (RTI) applications, reveals that of the 62 cases registered under the Act until September 2025, only five have gone to full trial. All five ended in acquittals. Judges repeatedly pointed out weak investigations, lack of evidence, and consensual relationships between couples.Acquittals highlight gapsThe five acquittals show how difficult it has been for the prosecution to prove coercion or inducement. In one case, a wedding arranged by two families led to the arrest of Aman Siddiqui alias Aman Chaudhary. His wife’s brother filed an FIR claiming Chaudhary hid his identity. But the Supreme Court granted him bail in May 2025, noting that the marriage was consensual and that the couple had submitted an affidavit confirming no conversion would take place.In another case from Tehri Garhwal, a man was accused of promoting Christianity through Facebook videos. The prosecution produced witnesses and digital evidence, but the court found no proof of inducement. The judge observed that every person has the fundamental right to practice and propagate any religion, as long as it does not infringe on others’ rights.Offering inducements for conversionA third case involved pastor Narendra Singh Bisht and his wife in Nainital’s Ramnagar. They were accused of offering inducements for conversion. But the trial court acquitted them in September 2025, saying the prosecution failed to prove when and how any inducement took place. Bisht, who spent seven days in jail, later said the case had made life difficult for his family, but they eventually won in court.Other acquittals involved allegations of kidnapping and forced conversion, but courts found that the women involved had left home willingly or married of their own choice. Judges noted contradictions in statements and lack of corroboration.Bail in most casesOf the 62 cases registered, the status of 51 is known. In 39 of these, the accused are out on bail. Courts often granted bail after noting consensual relationships, contradictory statements, or procedural lapses. Eleven accused obtained bail from the Uttarakhand High Court, and one from the Supreme Court.In three cases, bail was denied, while hearings are pending in five. In two cases, the accused approached the High Court for a stay, and the state was asked to reply.Law tightened but questions remainThe UFRA was amended in 2022 to increase jail terms, and again in 2025 to raise punishments further, up to 20 years or even life imprisonment in extreme cases. However, the 2025 amendment has not yet been notified because the Governor returned it to the government to correct clerical errors.Despite these changes, the number of cases has continued to rise. The highest number was registered in 2023, with 20 cases, followed by 18 in 2025 up to September. But the repeated acquittals and bail orders show that the law is facing serious challenges in court.

Contradictions in ongoing trialsIn ongoing trials, courts have often noted consensual relationships. In many cases, alleged victims changed their statements or refused to support the prosecution. Some cases involved allegations of concealment of identity, but courts questioned whether such claims could hold after years of relationships or marriages.For example, in Haridwar’s Kankhal, a woman claimed she discovered after nine years of marriage that her husband was Muslim. The High Court granted bail to the accused, questioning how she had not known his religion for so long.In another case from Nainital, a woman alleged concealment of identity by a man she had been in a relationship with for five years. The court noted that the couple had even applied for marriage under the Special Marriage Act earlier, raising doubts about the allegations.

Debate over effectivenessThe repeated acquittals have sparked debate about whether the law is effective. Supporters argue that the Act is necessary to prevent forced conversions and protect vulnerable communities. Critics say the law is being misused to target interfaith couples and minorities, and that it fails to stand up in court because of weak evidence.Silence from authoritiesDespite the growing number of cases and repeated acquittals, the Uttarakhand Police has declined to comment. Observers say the silence reflects the sensitive nature of the issue, which has political and social implications.As of now, the law remains in place, and cases continue to be filed. But the record of acquittals and bail orders raises serious questions about its future. Whether the government will revisit the law or continue to strengthen it remains to be seen.

Uttarakhand weather: Fog alert in five districts, avalanche warning for four hilly regions, authorities on vigil

Namita Singh — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 07:57:00 +0530

Dehradun: The weather in Uttarakhand continues to remain challenging. While recent rains have brought some relief from dry cold, fog in the plains and snowfall in the mountains are causing fresh difficulties.The Meteorological Center has issued a yellow fog alert for Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar, while light fog is expected in Dehradun, Pauri, Nainital, and Champawat.

Fog in plains, chill in mountainsOn Thursday morning, Dehradun witnessed light fog, reducing visibility. Morning and evening temperatures have dropped sharply following snowfall in the higher regions. Bright sunshine during the day provides some relief, but the chill persists in the mornings and evenings, making life uncomfortable for residents.Avalanche warning in four districtsThe State Disaster Operations Center has issued a high‑risk avalanche warning for Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Pithoragarh. The Defense Geoinformatics Research Establishment, Chandigarh, has predicted avalanches between 5 a.m. Friday and 5 a.m. Saturday. Heavy snowfall in these districts has increased the risk of avalanches or reactivation of old ones.Bageshwar has been placed in the moderate‑risk category. Authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant and keep disaster management resources on alert. District magistrates have been directed to monitor sensitive areas closely and ensure readiness to respond to any emergency.Hardships for residentsSnowfall has cut off communication between many villages in the mountains. Residents are facing difficulties with electricity and water supply. In several areas, power lines have been damaged, and water sources are frozen, adding to the hardships of daily life.Farmers and villagers are particularly worried as the cold wave continues to affect crops and livestock. In the plains, fog has disrupted transport, with reduced visibility making driving risky.Administration on alertThe State Emergency Operations Center has directed district officials to remain on high alert. Disaster management teams are prepared to respond quickly if avalanches occur. Authorities have also urged locals and travelers to avoid unnecessary journeys in high‑risk areas and to follow safety guidelines.Uttarakhand is facing a dual challenge of fog in the plains and avalanche threats in the mountains. While sunshine during the day offers some relief, the persistent chill, snowfall, and warnings have kept residents and officials on edge. Vigilance and preparedness remain the key to ensuring safety in the coming days.

Breaking News Updates: Ajit Pawar’s wife Sunetra Pawar agrees to become Maharashtra Deputy CM

Surarika Das,Swapnajit Kundu — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 06:49:00 +0530

In a major development from Maharashtra politics, Sunetra Pawar, wife of late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, has agreed to become the next Deputy CM, according to a report by TV9 Marathi. Notably, late Ajit Pawar’s political advisor Naresh Arora has met Sunetra Pawar, and discussed the matter. It has come to light that she has agreed to be the Deputy CM. Ajit Pawar, a popular name in Maharashtra politics, was recently killed in a plane crash while it was trying to land at the Baramati Airport.Follow TV9English for more updates 30 Jan 2026 11:31 PM (IST)

In a first after Maduro's US capture, PM Modi speaks with Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodríguez

In a major development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez on Friday over the phone. The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties between India and Venezuela. Notably, the South American country is going through a tumultuous period after the US forces captured and extradited Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. They were transported to the US and charged with drug trafficking.PM Modi took to X and wrote, "Spoke with Acting President of Venezuela, Ms Delcy Rodríguez. We agreed to further deepen and expand our bilateral partnership in all areas, with a shared vision of taking India-Venezuela relations to new heights in the years ahead." Notably, this is the first time PM Modi has spoken with Rodríguez after Maduro's capture.

30 Jan 2026 09:51 PM (IST)

Ajit Pawar’s wife Sunetra Pawar agrees to take Maharashtra Deputy CM post, big announcement soon

In a major development from Maharashtra politics, Sunetra Pawar, wife of late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, has agreed to become the next Deputy CM, according to a report by TV9 Marathi.Notably, late Ajit Pawar’s political advisor Naresh Arora has met Sunetra Pawar, and discussed the matter. It has come to light that she has agreed to be the Deputy CM. Ajit Pawar, a popular name in Maharashtra politics, was recently killed in a plane crash while it was trying to land at the Baramati Airport.There has been hectic meetings in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) camp, with Sunetra Pawar’s name seemingly confirmed for the post of Deputy CM, according to the report by TV9 Marathi. If it happens, then Maharashtra will get its first woman Deputy CM ever.30 Jan 2026 07:48 PM (IST)

PM Modi announces Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia to families of those killed in Kolkata fire tragedy

PM Narendra Modi announced on Friday an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the families of those killed in the warehouse fire in West Bengal's Anandapur. Also, the PM announced Rs 50,000 to those injured.Taking to X, PM Modi said, "The recent fire mishap in Anandapur, West Bengal, is very tragic and saddening. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those injured recover at the earliest." He added, "An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000."

30 Jan 2026 06:22 PM (IST)

Gaurav Gogoi slams Assam CM Sarma over 'Miya' remarks

30 Jan 2026 04:48 PM (IST)

Pai, Karnataka minister get in war of words

30 Jan 2026 03:23 PM (IST)

Uttarakhand’s conversion law faces setbacks: 7 years, 62 cases, 5 full trials, all ending in acquittals

In 2018, the Uttarakhand government passed the Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion Act (UFRA) to stop what it called “forced religious conversions.” The law was later strengthened in 2022 and again in 2025, with stricter punishments and longer jail terms. But nearly seven years later, court records show that the law is struggling to stand in court.An investigation by The Indian Express, based on records obtained through 30 Right to Information (RTI) applications, reveals that of the 62 cases registered under the Act until September 2025, only five have gone to full trial. All five ended in acquittals. Judges repeatedly pointed out weak investigations, lack of evidence, and consensual relationships between couples. Read more here30 Jan 2026 12:36 PM (IST)

22 students hospitalised after consuming mid-day at Telangana school

Around 22 students were hospitalised after consuming mid-day meals at a primary school in Sangareddy district in Telangana on 29th January, officials said.According to a police official, the students had eaten sambar and rice in the afternoon and soon began experiencing symptoms such as stomach pain and discomfort. The students were immediately shifted to the nearby hospital for medical attention. Later, the official stated that all 22 students are in stable condition and will be discharged from the hospital, says police.30 Jan 2026 11:09 AM (IST)

PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on 78th death anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary, saying his call for ‘swadeshi’ is the fundamental principle for a developed India.The prime minister said Mahatma Gandhi always laid strong emphasis on ‘swadeshi’, which is also a fundamental pillar of the government’s resolve for a developed and self-reliant India.30 Jan 2026 09:37 AM (IST)

Rajasthan Deputy CM Diya Kumari marks birthday with temple visits, hints at inclusive state budget

Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari says, "It's my birthday. I visited Govind Dev Ji, our revered deity, I offered prayers, and now I will also go to Tarkeshwar Mahadev temple and Moti Dungri Ganesh Ji temple. Then, in my constituency, I will first visit the temples and offer prayers. After that, I have a program to meet and greet people."On budget, she says, "You will receive all the information about the upcoming budget when it is presented. A very good and inclusive budget will be presented. At the state level, over the last 2 years under the leadership of CM Bhajanlal Sharma, we have presented a very good, inclusive budget for all sections of society and all regions. We have made significant announcements and fulfilled them. Similarly, a strong budget will be presented this time as well. There will be notable announcements for the entire state, and we will ensure these are effectively implemented on the ground, just as we have done previously."30 Jan 2026 07:07 AM (IST)

'Good snowfall boosts agriculture, tourism in Himachal Pradesh': Minister Rohit Thakur

Himachal Pradesh Minister Rohit Thakur says, "There has been good snowfall... Our state is predominantly an agricultural region, and this snowfall was very important for the farmers and other sectors of the economy... A large number of tourists also visited Himachal during this time. It's been a long time since we've had such good snowfall... All departments are working day and night to normalize the situation... We hope for more snowfall..." (29.01)30 Jan 2026 07:06 AM (IST)

UP cabinet approves rehabilitation of displaced Hindu Bengali families, Says Minister Suresh Khanna

Uttar Pradesh minister Suresh Kumar Khanna says, "The cabinet has approved the proposal for the rehabilitation of Hindu Bengali families displaced from East Pakistan and Bangladesh... 99 families are currently residing in Nangla Gosai village of Mawana tehsil in Meerut district. Arrangements are being made for their rehabilitation, under which each family will be allotted half an acre of land. This land will be given on lease for 30 years on a premium or lease rent basis, which can be extended twice for 30 years each time..." (29.01)30 Jan 2026 07:04 AM (IST)

SC stays UGC’s equity regulations; BJP MLA Pankaj Singh calls it 'welcoming decision’

Noida, UP | On Supreme Court staying UGC's Equity Regulations, BJP MLA Pankaj Singh says, "This was a burning issue, and the Supreme Court has stayed UGC's Equity Regulations, keeping in view the sentiments of millions of people. This is a welcoming decision..."

Kerala budget 2026: Govt to provide free 5-day treatment for accident victims

Vivek Narayanan — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:53:00 +0530

Thiruvananthapuram: In a major announcement, the Kerala govt has announced free medical treatment for the first five days for road accident victims, backed by an allocation of Rs 15 crore.This is the final budget of the second Pinarayi Vijayan government, presented in the Assembly on Thursday.Presenting the budget, Finance Minister K N Balagopal said the state records around 48,000 road accidents every year. He noted that in many cases victims do not receive timely medical intervention.To address this situation, the government has decided to roll out a special lifesaver project that guarantees free treatment for accident victims during the first five days following the incident. The scheme is intended to remove financial barriers and procedural delays that hinder emergency care.The facility will be available in all government hospitals and in selected private hospitals that will be included under the project.The Rs 15 crore earmarked in the budget will be used for implementing the project and strengthening emergency response and treatment systems across the state.Government announce accident insurance schemeThe Kerala government has announced an accident insurance scheme for students from classes 1-12. An annual sum of Rs 15 crore will be needed towards this, Finance Minister KN Balagopal announced in the Budget presentation on Thursday.The scheme will be implemented for the students from government, aided, and unaided state syllabus schools, and will be presented in the budget session.The state government will remit the insurance premium for all students falling under the scheme set to be rolled out from the next academic year. The initial discussions regarding this were taken after the slew of incidents of accidents in schools, including the electrocution of a 13-year-old boy, Mithun, at the Thevalakkara Boys High School in Kollam.

Kerala budget 2026: Govt announces free education in arts & science colleges

Vivek Narayanan — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:53:00 +0530

Thiruvananthapuram: In a major announcement that is set to provide free education for all in the state's higher education sector, Finance Minister KN Balagopal announced that graduation studies in the state's arts and science colleges will be made completely free.The government projects this as the extension of the free education provided in the state up to Class 12.The state will also provide a sum of 259.09 crores for the effective functioning of Universities working under the Higher Education Department.In a move to implement the recommendations of the Higher Education Council and the four-year degree programmes, the state will allocate a sum of Rs 851.46 crores.Marking another remarkable announcement in the education sector, the government has announced scholarships for Higher Secondary students from the Below Poverty Line (BPL) sector of the state. A sum of Rs 7.9 crores has been allocated towards this.As part of the free uniform distribution, the minister has allotted Rs 150.34 crores, which includes the allocation of Rs 70 crores to the handlooms directorate to provide two sets of uniform to all students of aided LP, government LP and UP schools of the state.The minister also announced an allocation of Rs 55 crores to Samagra Shiksha Kerala, and an additional amount of Rs 23 crores to the various projects by the initiative.Over 21.25 crores have been allotted to SCERT for its activities, including the drafting of new textbooks for sports schools and the preparation of digital textbooks.

SC stays UGC's equity regulations on definition of caste discrimination

Mani Raj — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:53:00 +0530

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday stayed the implementation of the University Grants Commissions (UGC) equity regulations. These regulations pertain to the definition of caste discrimination. The apex court also issued notices to the UGC and the Central government, on the pleas challenging the new framework.

Want free and equitable atmosphere in educational institutions: Court

The court while passing this order said that they "wanted a free, equitable and inclusive atmosphere in educational institutions." But it warned that the new regulations were capable of dividing society.The bench said that the earlier regulations which are in force since 2012, would continue to remain in operation till the time a final decision is made regarding the matter.The court was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the new regulations of the UGC, which ask all higher educational institutions to constitute equity committees to address complaints of discrimination and promote equity. The petitioners described the regulations as unfair and said that they lacked adequate safeguards, according to reports. The bench headed by Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant had listed the matter for urgent hearing. The petitioners in the case are Mritunjay Tiwari, advocate Vineet Jindal and Rahul Dewan.The CJI said that prima facie we can say that the language of the regulation is vague, experts need to examine it to modify its language so that it is not misused.

Protests against the UGC regulations

The ruling by the Supreme Court comes after massive student protests gripped the nation, as soon as the new rules were notified by the UGC on January 13. Protests were witnessed right from the North Campus in Delhi University to colleges in Patna. In fact general category students gathered in front of the Vice Chancellor's office in DU demanding a rollback of University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions). In Patna, the student unions called for a nationwide bandh in protest against the new regulations. In a separate development, the Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri, who had resigned from government service over the disagreement over the government policies, especially regarding the new UGC regulations, was suspended from service. He had claimed that the new regulations might lead to caste based violence on the University campuses across India. Following this, a departmental enquiry was instituted against him.

Tamil Nadu Budget 2026: Interim vote-on-account likely on Feb 13-14 ahead of elections

Ram Kumar — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:52:00 +0530

The Tamil Nadu government is in advanced discussions to present its interim budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year on February 13 or 14, setting the stage for its final major policy announcement before the state heads into Assembly elections likely in April-May. This vote-on-account will be the last financial statement of the incumbent DMK government's five-year term, with expectations high for significant populist concessions aimed at the electorate.Interim Budget as Election Platform: Expected Concessions and AllowancesWith the DMK government's term ending and the Election Commission's poll schedule imminent, this interim budget session is viewed as a crucial platform. The ruling party is expected to pack the financial statement with voter-friendly announcements. Anticipated measures could include enhancements to the flagship Women’s Entitlement Allowance (Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai), new commitments for free housing schemes, increases in disability and old age pensions, and electricity tariff concessions. Policy moves like granting land titles to long-term occupants and targeted concessions for college students are also speculated to be on the table.Tamil Nadu Assembly Session Dynamics: A Short, Strategic Assembly Meet Before PollsThe budget session will follow the customary legislative process. The first session of the year began on January 20 with the Governor’s Address, followed by debates and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s reply on January 24, after which the House was adjourned sine die. Given the election context, the government plans a concise session, potentially wrapping up within four days after the budget presentation in the second or third week of February. This interim budget will serve as a temporary financial blueprint, covering essential expenditures for the first few months of the new fiscal year. The full annual budget will be presented in July 2026 by the government formed after the elections.

Uttarakhand weather: Snowfall and rain bring back cold; dry conditions for two days, change expected on Saturday

Namita Singh — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 07:58:00 +0530

Dehradun: The cold has returned to Uttarakhand after fresh snowfall in the higher Himalayan regions and rain in the plains. The Meteorological Department has forecast dry weather for Thursday and Friday, with another change likely from Saturday as western disturbance remains active.January had seen rising temperatures due to a prolonged lack of rain. Daytime conditions were becoming mildly warm, but the last week of January brought relief with widespread rain and snowfall. This sudden change has cooled the air and reminded residents of winter’s chill.

Snowfall in Tehri and tourist spotsFollowing the forecast, higher elevations of Tehri district received their second snowfall of the season. Rain in the lower regions further dropped temperatures. Tourist destinations such as Dhanaulti, Kaddukhal, Kanatal, Surkanda Devi Temple, and Pratap Nagar saw rain from early morning, attracting visitors eager to enjoy the winter scenery.

According to the Meteorological Department, January recorded 13% more rainfall than normal. While the average rainfall for the month is 38 mm, this year the state received 42.8 mm. Bageshwar and Nainital districts recorded the highest rainfall.Local tourism businesses expressed relief, saying the snowfall has revived tourist arrivals. Hotels and homestays in Dhanaulti and Kanatal reported increased bookings as visitors came to witness the snow‑covered landscapes.

Snow blankets Pithoragarh peaksIn Pithoragarh district, snowfall over the past two to three days has covered the high Himalayan peaks in a thick white blanket. Despite the harsh conditions, ITBP, SSB, and Army personnel continue to guard the border areas with China and Nepal. Their presence ensures security even in extreme weather.Impact on daily lifeWhile snowfall has delighted tourists and boosted local businesses, it has also affected normal life. Residents in the plains are experiencing colder nights andmornings, while those in the hills are relying on bonfires for warmth. Farmers are hopeful that the rain and snow will benefit crops and orchards.Authorities have advised people to remain cautious while traveling on slippery roads and to stay updated with weather forecasts. With another change expected from Saturday, residents and tourists alike are preparing for more rain and snow in the coming days.

Breaking News Live Updates: 'Innocent should not face injustice', says Akhilesh Yadav on SC staying UGC guidelines

Mani Raj,Adan Khan — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0530

Breaking News Live Updates, January 29, 2026: The funeral of Maharashtra Deputy Chief MInister Ajit Pawar, who died in a plane crash on Wednesday morning, is scheduled to take place on Thursday in his native Baramati in Maharashtra. The accident also killed the pilot and 3 others in the aircraft. Stay with TV9 English for latest updates from the India and around the world. 29 Jan 2026 03:14 PM (IST)

Karnataka Assembly uproar over state ad opposing Centre’s rural jobs law

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly saw disruptions after the Siddaramaiah-led government published a newspaper advertisement opposing the Centre’s VB-G RAM G Act. The Bharatiya Janata Party accused the state of misusing taxpayers’ money and disrespecting Mahatma Gandhi, staging a walkout. Rural Development Minister Priyank Kharge defended the ad, saying no law was violated and states need not accept central decisions unquestioningly.29 Jan 2026 02:32 PM (IST)

'Innocent should not face injustice': Akhilesh Yadav reacts to Supreme Court staying UGC guidelines 2026

On Supreme Court staying UGC guidelines 2026, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav says," We all believe the culprits should not be spared and innocent persons should not face injustice."29 Jan 2026 01:19 PM (IST)

Kerala to open menopause clinics in district hospitals, budget allocates Rs 3 crore

The Kerala government is taking a step toward focused on women's healthcare. In the state budget presented in the Assembly on Thursday, Finance Minister K N Balagopal announced that Rs 3 crore will be allocated to set up specialised menopause clinics in district hospitals. Menopause, a natural phase in a woman's life, is often overlooked despite its profound physical and emotional impact.29 Jan 2026 01:07 PM (IST)

Supreme Court stays UGC Promotion of Equity Regulations 2026

SC says the provisions are prima facie vague and capalbe of misuse. The apex court asks Union to redraft the regulations, till then its operation kept in abeyance.29 Jan 2026 11:48 AM (IST)

BJP's Saurabh Joshi is new Chandigarh mayor

He has been active in politics of Chandigarh for a long time now. He has been a councillor twice. 29 Jan 2026 11:19 AM (IST)

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's funeral begins in Baramati

The funeral of Maharashtra's Deputy CM Ajit Pawar is underway in his homwtown Baramati. His wife, Sunetra Pawar, cousin Supriya Sule and other family members are present at the funeral ground. 29 Jan 2026 11:04 AM (IST)

Ajit Pawar's funeral to begin shortly in Baramati

NCP-SCP leader Supriya Sule consoles Sunetra Pawar, as the last rites of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar will begin shortly

29 Jan 2026 11:02 AM (IST)

Delhi schools receive bomb threat via email

Bomb threat emails have been sent to four schools in Delhi. These include Loreto Convent School in Delhi Cantt, Don Bosco School in CR Park, Carmel School in Anand Niketan South Campus, and Carmel School in Dwarka.29 Jan 2026 10:36 AM (IST)

PM Narendra Modi arrives at the Parliament

PM Modi arrives at Parliament just before the start of the Budget Session

29 Jan 2026 09:58 AM (IST)

Bus catches fire in Karnataka, no causalities reported

At least 10 passengers sustained minor injuries after a private bus travelling from Hosanagar to Bengaluru with 36 passengers onboard caught fire today. There was no loss of lives in the incident.29 Jan 2026 09:00 AM (IST)

Ajit Pawar's body reaches his residence Kathew

The body of the Deputy CM of Maharashtra who died in a plane crash on Wednesday will now be taken to Vidya Pratishthan for the last rites in a short while from now. 29 Jan 2026 08:35 AM (IST)

Ajit Pawar's contributions to Maharashtra politics are inspirational: Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar

Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar says, "Ajit Pawar's contributions to Maharashtra politics are inspirational for everyone. Dada did a lot of work with the cooperative sector. I will always remember him for his discipline and punctuality. His passing away is a huge loss to our state which cannot be compensated."29 Jan 2026 08:34 AM (IST)

Preparations underway in Baramati for funeral of NCP Chief and Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar passed away yesterday after the aircraft he was travelling in crashed in Baramati, claiming the lives of all those on board.

29 Jan 2026 07:49 AM (IST)

Last rites of Ajit Pawar at 11 am at Vidya Pratishtan ground

The last rites of Ajit Pawar will be performed at the ground of Vidya Pratishtan, an educational institute founded by the Pawar family, with full state honours at 11 am on Thursday29 Jan 2026 07:31 AM (IST)

Man sentenced to 15 years for assassination plot against Iranian American journalist

A federal judge gave a would-be assassin the maximum 15 years in prison Wednesday for plotting to kill an Iranian American writer on behalf of Tehran after hearing the woman who was targeted describe multiple attempts on her life as threats against all Americans. Judge Lewis J. Liman said Carlisle Rivera's written conversations as he plotted to kill journalist and human rights advocate Masih Alinejad in Brooklyn in 2024 were “chilling” and he inflicted “great harm” on her and her husband.29 Jan 2026 07:28 AM (IST)

Small plane crashes in rural area of northeast Colombia, killing all 15 people on board

A small plane crashed Wednesday in a rural area of Norte de Santander province in northeast Colombia, killing all 15 people on board, authorities said. Satena, the state-owned airline that operated the flight, said local officials in the community of Curasica notified authorities about where the plane had gone down and a rescue team was deployed to “assess the condition of the passengers.” Colombia's Transportation Ministry later released a statement saying that “once the aircraft was located on site, authorities regrettably confirmed that there were no survivors.” The aircraft, which has a registration number of HK4709, took off at 11:42 am local time from the airport in Cucuta, the department's capital, bound for Ocana, a municipality surrounded by mountains, on a flight that typically lasts about 40 minutes.29 Jan 2026 07:26 AM (IST)

Partial shutdown seems increasingly likely as Democrats demand ICE changes

With a partial government shutdown looming, Senate Democrats laid out a list of demands Wednesday for the Department of Homeland Security, including an enforceable code of conduct for federal agents conducting immigration arrests and a requirement that officers show identification as the country reels from the deaths of two protesters at the hands of federal agents in Minneapolis. It remained unclear if President Donald Trump and Republicans would be willing to meet those demands, even as funding for DHS and a swath of other government agencies was at risk of expiring Saturday. Irate Democrats have pledged to block a spending bill unless their demands for reforms are met.29 Jan 2026 07:25 AM (IST)

Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar describes Ajit Pawar as a disciplined person

Shiv Sena leader Deepak Kesarkar says, "It is a very unfortunate incident, and everyone is grieving and remembering Ajit Dada. He was a very disciplined person, and he used to start his day very early. He had absolute control over the administration... He was very good at heart, which is why he loved everyone, and everyone loved him. The whole of Maharashtra is in deep sorrow today. No politics should be done at a time like this. His flight tried to land first, but due to fog, it could not land... I started my political career in Congress along with Pawar Saheb. When NCP was formed, I joined NCP. Dada loved all of us, and Sharad Pawar Saheb was an inspiration for all of us."29 Jan 2026 07:18 AM (IST)

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's funeral today

The funeral of Maharashtra Deputy CM, Ajit Pawar who died in a tragic plane crash will be held on Thursday, in his hometown Baramati. The plane crash killed 5 people, including the pilot. The tragedy occurred while the pilot was attempting an emergency landing.

Kerala hospital performs removal of a giant 4kg polycystic kidney

Vivek Narayanan — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:57:00 +0530

Kochi: For the first time in Kerala, a multi specialty private hospital has successfully performed a rare and complex 3D laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery to remove a giant polycystic kidney weighing nearly four kilograms from a 50-year-old male patient suffering from severe renal dysfunction.The key-hole surgery was conducted at the VPS Lakeshore hospital in ErnakulamThe enlarged kidney, measuring close to 30 cm in length, had caused significant displacement of surrounding abdominal structures, extending from the rib cage to the pelvic region and resulting in considerable physical distress. The patient was also diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease affecting both kidneys, leading to marked deterioration of renal function.“The surgery is considered rare because polycystic kidneys of this size are usually treated through open surgery, especially in patients with renal failure and bilateral disease. Performing a complete removal using a purely laparoscopic approach requires a high level of technical expertise,” said Dr Datson P George, Senior Consultant and HOD, Urology and Renal Transplant, VPS Lakeshore Hospital.The surgery was performed as a preparatory step ahead of a planned renal transplant. Given the size of the enlarged kidney, such cases are conventionally managed through open surgery. However, the medical team opted for a laparoscopic approach to reduce postoperative pain, minimise blood loss and enable faster recovery.“The patient had bilateral polycystic kidney disease with significant renal dysfunction, which made surgical planning critical. A minimally invasive approach was chosen to ensure safety while preserving overall physiological stability,” Dr George said.The procedure was carried out by a team from the Department of Urology and Renal Transplant led by Dr George, with Dr Karthi AP, Dr Gregory Pathrose, Dr Adil Abdulla, Dr Joel, Dr Arun, Dr Subhash and HOD of Anaesthesia Dr. Mallie Abraham and Senior Consultant Jaya Susan Jacob. Doctors said renal parameters were closely monitored throughout the procedure.Hospital authorities said the second kidney which also affected by polycystic disease and measuring approximately 28 cm, will be addressed as part of a staged treatment strategy after the patient stabilises fully following the first surgery, with renal preservation remaining the priority.The patient is currently stable and recovering under close medical supervision. Further treatment decisions will be taken following detailed clinical reassessment.“The hospital has managed several rare and complex surgical cases over the years, and this procedure is another addition, reflecting the consistent efforts of our clinical teams,” said S K Abdulla, Managing Director, VPS Lakeshore Hospital.

Telangana nurse held for parents' murder after marriage row

Pavitra — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:46:00 +0530

Hyderabad: A nurse was arrested for killing her parents by administering a high dose of anesthetic after they rejected her marriage proposal to her boyfriend.The victims, Dasarath and Lakshmi, lived in Yacharam village, Bantwaram mandal of Rangareddy district, and had one son and three daughters.Their youngest daughter, Surekha, worked as a nurse at a private hospital in Sangareddy. She fell in love with a man she befriended on Instagram and urged her parents to approve their marriage proposal. They rejected it due to caste differences and arranged her engagement to another man, Vikarabad DSP Srinivas Reddy said.Under the pretense of relieving their knee pain, she gave them a fatal anesthetic overdose and staged their bodies to mimic natural deaths.She then called her brother Ashok, claiming their parents had collapsed and fallen unconscious. After a police complaint was filed and an investigation launched, officers discovered the injections. During interrogation, Surekha confessed to the crime. She was arrested and was produced before the magistrate.

NIA conduct raids at 20 PFI-linked centres across Kerala

Vivek Narayanan — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:32:00 +0530

Ernakulam: As part of tracking the activities of banned extremist organization PFI (Popular Front of India), the National Investigation Agency (NIA) team conducted raids at 20 locations. The raids were conducted across three districts of Kerala— Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad—in connection with a terror-related case.In Ernakulam alone, NIA teams searched eight centres.Sources said the operation is part of an ongoing probe into the banned outfit’s alleged extremist activities, during which investigators recovered crucial evidence. The searches began around 6 am and concluded by about 10 am.Although the PFI has been banned, its activities are suspected to be continuing underground. Sources said the NIA is closely monitoring such developments and tracking covert networks operating in the state.The agency is also probing a wider conspiracy linked to the brutal hand-chopping attack on college professor TJ Joseph. During custodial interrogation, Savad, the first accused in the case, reportedly disclosed details about a PFI network in Kerala and Tamil Nadu that allegedly sheltered him.According to sources, the raids were also aimed at tracing six key PFI activists who have been absconding. Among them is 28-year-old Abdul Vahab from Aluva, for whom the NIA has announced a reward of Rs 7 lakh. Similar rewards have been declared for 35-year-old Abdul Rasheed K from Pattambi and 52-year-old Ayub TA from Edavanakkad.A reward of Rs 3 lakh has been announced for information leading to the arrest of Muhammad Mansoor, 43, from Pattambi.The agency has also sought public assistance in locating Muhammad Yasar Arafath from Alangad and Moideenkutty P from Valanchery.Sources said the NIA’s current focus is on dismantling the underground network that provides logistical and financial support to the absconding accused.

Ajit Pawar plane crash: Why landing on tabletop runways is challenging | Explained

Swapnajit Kundu — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:17:00 +0530

New Delhi: In an incident that has shocked the nation, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died on Wednesday in a plane crash. The accident occurred while the plane was landing at Pune’s Baramati Airport, as Pawar was going there from Mumbai to campaign for the Zilla Parishad elections.

The dangers of tabletop airstrips

Pawar had left for Baramati from Mumbai on Wednesday morning in a special plane. However, the plane crashed due to a sudden technical failure. Maharashtra is currently witnessing Zilla Parishad elections, and Ajit Pawar was scheduled to hold campaign rallies in various places in Baramati.The incident claimed five lives, including that of Pawar and his security personnel. It happened reportedly due to a botched landing at the elevated airstrip, though it does not have the classic tabletop design normally seen in other dangerous, notorious sites.According to flight tracking website Flightradar24, Pawar's aircraft crashed while trying a second approach to the Baramati Airport, which has a tabletop runway. The small Baramati airstrip reportedly lacks ILS (Instrument Landing System) facilities, forcing the pilot to try for a manual and visual landing. The aircraft approached the runway by making a large turn. It crashed during the landing near the tabletop runway's edge.

Crash happened during descent

The Learjet 45, operated by VSR Ventures, a Delhi-based private aviation company, lost control during descent on its 1,770-metre runway, located at 604 metres above sea level. CCTV footage has surfaced online showing the moment the chartered plane crashed this morning. The ill-fated aircraft burst into flames shortly after it crash-landed around 8.46 am.The CCTV video from a highway near the airport in Baramati shows a massive plume of smoke billowing in the air after the plane crashed and turned into a fireball. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is probing potential weather factors, technical faults, and operational lapses.

Incident brings dangerous runways into focus

The crash has brought into focus Baramati Airport, and the five primary tabletop runways in India: Kozhikode, Mangalore, Lengpui, Shimla, and Pakyong. Tabletop runways on hilltop plateaus with sheer drops at their ends make life extremely difficult for pilots, often creating optical illusions with the strip appearing closer than it is.DGCA mandates specialised training for such operations. In August 2020, an Air India Express Boeing 737 crashed at Kozhikode's tabletop runway, battered by monsoon rains and poor visibility, killing 21 people. A decade earlier at Mangalore, another such crash took place, killing 158 people.The Baramati tragedy has reminded us of the vulnerabilities at high-altitude sites in India's aviation sector, places that are not equipped enough to deal with such situations. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will probe the plane crash at Baramati airport.

Who were Shambhavi Pathak and Sahil Madan, the two pilots flying Ajit Pawar's plane

Subhajit Dasgupta — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:49:00 +0530

Baramati: In a tragic incident, early on Wednesday, a plane carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others crashed while landing in Baramati. All five, including Ajit Pawar, lost their lives in the incident. The two pilots in the cockpit were Captain Sahil Madan and First Officer Shambhavi Pathak.

Two pilots were among dead

The two pilots were also among the dead in the plane crash. As per reports, large explosions were heard after the plane crashed while landing. While no official reason has been issued on what led to the incident, it is believed that the accident might have occurred due to bad weather.

Know about Captain Sahil Madan

The plane was being piloted by Captain Sahil Madan and First Officer Shambhavi Pathak. Both pilots were flying Bombardier Learjet 45, operated by Mayfair Jets DWC LLC, and was built in 2010. The gross weight of the aircraft was 9752 kilograms.Of the two pilots, Captain Sahil Madan was more experienced, who started flying in 2010. During his 16-years of experience, he has worked for a number of prestigious companies like Air Charter Service and Winfly. He was currently working with VSR Ventures Private Limited.As per his LinkedIn profile, Sahil had started his career with Air Charter Services Pvt. Ltd as Captain flying Pilatus PC-12. He then joined VSR Ventures Pvt. Ltd in 2015, where he worked for four years. After this, he joined Winfly Aviation Pvt Ltd as a full-time chief pilot. In 2022, he was with VSR Corporation Private Limited and started flying a Learjet 45 as a captain in 2024.

Some details about First Officer Shambhavi Pathak

His co-pilot on Wednesday was First Officer Shambhavi Pathak. She studied at Air Force Bal Bharati School and completed her secondary education between 2016 and 2018. After this, she joined a commercial pilot and flight crew training in New Zealand. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautics, Aviation and Aerospace Science and Technology from Mumbai University in 2022.She had also joined the Madhya Pradesh Flying Club as an Assistant Flying Instructor. She received a Frozen Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

Gangotri Dham ban on Non‑Hindus sparks political row in Uttarakhand; Harish Rawat calls it BJP election agenda

Namita Singh — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:18:00 +0530

Dehradun: The decision to ban non‑Hindus from entering Gangotri Dham has sparked a nationwide debate, drawing sharp political and religious reactions. The Shri Gangotri Temple Committee announced the ban on Sunday, extending it to Mukhba village, the winter retreat site.Senior Congress leader and former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat opposed the ban, calling it the BJP’s new election agenda.

Ruling party has run out of issues and is now creating new agendasRawat said the ruling party has run out of issues and is now creating new agendas. Rawat argued that religions across the world attract people to their places of worship to showcase their greatness and virtues, not to stop them.“Religions around the world attract people to their places of worship; they don’t stop them, they attract them, so that others can accept the greatness and virtues of one’s religion. Now, a new tradition has been started. Perhaps, there are no issues left in their election agenda. Therefore, new agendas are being created,” Rawat said.

Pramod Krishnam’s retortFormer Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam responded sharply to Rawat’s statement. He said Rawat should focus on the Congress party instead of the BJP. “He should first call a meeting of the Congress Working Committee and propose the removal of Rahul Gandhi,” Krishnam remarked.CM Dhami’s standUttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said the government will consider the views of all stakeholders before reviewing laws related to ancient religious sites. He emphasized that the opinions of pilgrimage committees, temple organizations, saint communities, and local management bodies will be taken into account.Religious reactionsThe ban has also drawn responses from Muslim leaders. Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, national president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, strongly opposed the decision. He described it as divisive and harmful to communal harmony. “Such actions weaken Hindu‑Muslim brotherhood and harm the unity of the country,” he said.

On the other hand, some leaders like Dr. Ilyasi have supported the move, saying temple committees have the right to decide rules for their places of worship.Public debate continuesThe viral announcement has ignited discussions across social media and public platforms. While some support the temple committee’s right to regulate entry, others believe such bans go against India’s tradition of inclusivity and communal harmony.The issue has now become both a political flashpoint and a matter of religious sensitivity, with the state government expected to tread carefully in balancing faith, tradition, and social unity.

Mamata Banerjee suspects sabotage in Ajit Pawar plane crash, demands SC monitored probe

Subhajit Dasgupta — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:29:00 +0530

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock at the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe in the entire incident. Ajit Pawar and five others lost their lives earlier in the day after their plane crashed while landing in Baramati.

Conspiracy can’t be ruled out: Mamata Banerjee

“Ajit Pawar was about to leave the BJP-led alliance. Any kind of conspiracy cannot be ruled. A Supreme Court-monitored probe should be done in the matter. Nobody is safe in the country, including leaders,” the West Bengal CM said.Taking to X earlier, she wrote, “Deeply shocked and stunned by the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar! The Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and his co-passengers have died in a disastrous plane crash at Baramati this morning, and I am feeling a deep sense of loss. My condolences to his family, including his uncle Sharad Pawar ji, and late Ajitji's all friends and followers. The incident needs proper investigation.”.

Ajit Pawar was on his way to Baramati

Sending shock waves across the country earlier in the day, the plane carrying Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and five others crashed while landing in Baramati. All six people who were on board the plane lost their lives in the incident. The state government has declared a three-day mourning period after the incident.

Leaders across party lines condole death

Several leaders across party lines have condoled the death of Ajith Pawar. Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people, having a strong grassroots level connect. He was widely respected as a hardworking personality at the forefront of serving the people of Maharashtra”.He added, “His understanding of administrative matters and passion for empowering the poor and downtrodden were also noteworthy. His untimely demise is very shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”

Kerala: Rahul Mamkoottathil granted bail in third rape case

Vivek Narayanan — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 13:08:00 +0530

Pathanamthitta: In a major relief to Palakkad MLA Rahul, the Pathanamthitta District Sessions Court granted bail in connection with the third rape case against him. Rahul Mamkoottathil was arrested 18 days before after the Thiruvalla magistrate court granted bail to him after a woman residing abroad filed a complaint against him alleging sexual assault after making promise to marry him.Subsequently, the District Sessions Court was approached, which resulted in a favourable order.The defence argued before the court that the relationship between the accused and the complainant was consensual. Taking these submissions into account, the court granted bail. The order was issued after examining the case details and the observations made by the lower court.The third case pertains to a complaint made by a woman staying in Dubai who alleged that she was subjected to sexual assault inside a hotel room in Thiruvalla where she was asked to book a room by Rahul. The woman’s counsel filed digital evidences in the Thiruvalla court to prove that the relationship was no consensual. The court accepted the argument and had rejected Rahul’s bail plea.Meanwhile, Rahul Mamkoottathil had maintained that he had consensual relationship with all the 3 woman who had made allegations against him.

Devotees flock to Mulugu as Medaram Jatara begins on a grand scale

Pavitra — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:32:00 +0530

Hyderabad: Devotees gathered in Mulugu district in massive numbers as Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara began in Medaram on Wednesday, January 28.The ‘Maha Jatara’ will begin at 6 PM on Wednesday evening with tribal priests installing the deities of Saralamma, Govindaraju, Pagididdaraju at the altar. Sammakka will be installed at the altar at 6 PM on Thursday, January 29.Medaram Jatara celebrated as state festival since 1998:Medaram Jatara was announced as a state festival in 1998 and will come to an end on January 31. About 21 government departments and 42,000 personnel are involved in putting the event together, including arrival and departure of devotees, security, cleanliness and medical facilities.It is estimated that up to one crore tribal people and other devotees will arrive from across the state and from neighbouring states like Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra. Devotees who show up belong to various tribal sects including – Guttikoyas, Koyas, gonds, lambadas, adivasis among others.The temple complex has been renovated at a cost of Rs 251 crore. The state government has divided the Jatara area into eight administrative zones and 42 sectors.TSRTC to deploy 4,000 buses: Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) will deploy about 4,000 buses to Mulugu district for the festival. About 5,000 health personnel, ambulances, bike ambulances have been arranged for the mega event.Jatara commemorates fight against oppression:Also known as ‘Mini Kumbh Mela,’ the Jatara honours tribal goddesses and commemorates fight against oppression and injustice. It is a festival with no brahmanic or vedic influence.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar dies in deadly plane crash in Baramati

Subhajit Dasgupta — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 09:26:00 +0530

Baramati: The plane carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP chief Ajit Pawar crashed in Maharashtra’s Baramati on Wednesday. The accident took place a little after 8:30 AM this morning. There were six people on board.Smoke engulfed the area after the deadly crash. As per reports, Ajit Pawar was on his way to a public meeting in the district. The incident took place at the time of landing. The administration and rescue teams have arrived at the scene and are assessing the situation. While there is no official confirmation on how the accident took place, low visibility seemed to be the reason behind the tragedy.

How did the accident took place?

There were a total of five people on board the plane. Low visibility caused the accident. The accident was horrific, and smoke engulfed the area after the crash. Ajit Pawar departed from Mumbai for Baramati this morning on a special flight. Campaign rallies were being held in Baramati for the Zilla Parishad elections. Four Zilla Parishad rallies were held today in different Zilla Parishad constituencies in the Baramati tehsil.Ajit Pawar was accompanied on the plane by his security personnel and assistants. Several activists and close associates of Ajit Pawar were also present at the scene.

Who were on board the plane?

Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar was on board the plane, along with two other people (one PSO and one attendant) and two crew members (PIC+FO). According to preliminary information, no one on board survived the crash.

Ajit Pawar's political journey

Ajit Pawar learned the basics of politics from his uncle, Sharad Pawar, who has been a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics. Ajit was the state's eighth Deputy Chief Minister and served as a minister in various governments.Ajit Pawar, entered politics in the 1980s under the tutelage of his uncle Sharad. He achieved his first electoral success in 1991 when he won the Baramati Lok Sabha seat. However, he resigned shortly thereafter to make way for his uncle. Sharad then won the by-election and became Defense Minister in the then central government of P.V. Narasimha Rao.In recent years, he parted ways with his uncle and formed his own party. Ajit Pawar then joined the BJP-lead alliance to form the government in the state. Recently, his party joined hands with NCP (SCP) to contest Pune civic polls.