The number of young voters aged 18-29 in India has increased to 21.7 crore as per the revised electoral rolls, while the overall electorate has grown to 99.1 crore. The electoral rolls also show a more gender-balanced ratio with an increase to 954 female voters per 1,000 male voters.
Related news
Haryana government proposes a new tree felling policy for non-forest land that eliminates the need for permission on plots acquired for urban development. The policy focuses on preserving ecologically significant indigenous plants while exempting certain trees, like eucalyptus and poplar, from requiring permission if located outside forest areas.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in Mauritius, highlighting the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He announced the extension of Overseas Citizen India cards to the seventh generation of the Indian diaspora and expressed gratitude for receiving the highest civilian award from Mauritius.
Sharmistha Mukherjee criticised Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's proposal for a separate memorial for Dr Manmohan Singh, pointing out that the Congress did not convene a condolence meeting for her late father, former President Pranab Mukherjee. She mentioned other leaders neglected by Congress due to not being part of the 'Gandhi' family, highlighting an ongoing issue.
Former cricketer Shikhar Dhawan reflects on India’s 2013 Champions Trophy win and shared fond memories of the journey. He believes the current squad, with its blend of experience and young talent, has the potential to win the 2025 edition under Rohit Sharma's captaincy. Dhawan is confident in the form and abilities of Rohit and Virat Kohli.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev accused Russia of shooting down an Azerbaijani passenger plane, killing 38 of 67 passengers. Aliyev demanded an apology, acknowledgment of guilt, and compensation. Survivors reported loud noises, and the Kremlin admitted active air defence systems. Investigations are ongoing with a joint probe at the crash site.
Over 60.42% of Delhi's 1.56 crore voters participated in the 70-member assembly elections, lower than previous years. The turnout was provisional and may be updated. AAP, BJP, and Congress were the main contenders, with polling largely peaceful. Results will be declared on Feb 8, with the government formation by Feb 11 if a majority is clear.
Syed Zainul Abedin Ali Khan, Ajmer Dargah's spiritual head, lauded RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's call to avoid new temple disputes. Bhagwat's advice against creating further religious conflicts, particularly after the Sambhal Jama Masjid survey and the Ajmer Sharif Dargah petition, was praised as promoting national unity and progress. He emphasized the importance of harmony and acknowledged the Ram Temple's significance while discouraging further discord.
The cabinet has approved two ropeway projects in Uttarakhand, reducing travel time significantly. These projects, Sonprayag to Kedarnath and Govindghat to Hemkund Sahib, will be implemented on a public-private partnership basis, costing around Rs 6,811 crore. The ropeways will provide fast, eco-friendly connectivity and are expected to boost pilgrimage and tourism.
Villagers in Maharashtra's Buldhana district are experiencing sudden hair loss and baldness, prompting authorities to test local water sources for contamination. Health officials are surveying affected villages and providing medical treatment. Water samples from Kalvad, Bondgaon, and Hingna villages are being analyzed for potential pollutants, and skincare specialists are being consulted for further advice.
A Norwegian citizen from Kerala, Rinson Jose, has been cleared by Norwegian police of any involvement in the September 2024 pager blasts in Lebanon. Jose, whose company was investigated, has safely contacted his family and resumed work. Reports suggest Jose has returned to Norway with his wife, although his current location remains undisclosed.