The Karnataka cabinet approved amendments to strengthen penalties against cooperative societies and pawnbrokers charging excessive interest rates, following concerns by the state governor. The changes, related to a recent microfinance regulatory ordinance, increase imprisonment terms and fines. The cabinet also discussed the transfer of development rights dispute involving the Mysuru royal family, after a Supreme Court ruling.
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The railway ministry has invited bids for a signalling system to enable Vande Bharat trains on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed corridor by 2027, due to delays in procuring Japanese Shinkansen trains, which are now expected to be operational in stages by 2030 and fully by 2033.
Karnataka's Congress government has assigned the CID to investigate the suicide of contractor Sachin Panchala, who left a note alleging threats from an aide of minister Priyank Kharge. With the BJP demanding a CBI probe and Priyank's resignation, state home minister Parameshwara defended the CID's capability to handle the investigation.
India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar advances US-India relations with early talks with key members of the new Trump administration, focusing on strategic cooperation and regional stability. His engagements underline the significance of US-QUAD collaboration despite Trump's controversial foreign policy stance and social media misinformation.
Rekha Gupta has been appointed as the new chief minister of Delhi after a decision at the BJP legislature party meeting. Gupta, representing Shalimar Bagh, becomes the fourth woman to hold this position in the capital and will be sworn in on Thursday.
Sambhal district administration started excavating a centuries-old well near the Shahi Jama Masjid in Chandausi. This is part of an initiative to revive historical wells and pilgrimage sites. Authorities aim to restore and preserve these structures, addressing complaints about encroachment and neglect. The excavation includes an area under tension due to past claims about the mosque's history.
Amidst cheers and celebratory dances, Arvind Kejriwal launched AAP's election anthem 'Fir Layenge Kejriwal,' highlighting the party's achievements in Delhi, targeting opposition, and promoting key schemes like free electricity and water. The anthem promises additional benefits and portrays Kejriwal as a determined leader overcoming obstacles.
Nepal's Ambassador to India, Shankar Sharma, met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to discuss bilateral relations amidst growing unrest in Nepal over demands to reinstate the monarchy. The meeting comes after violent pro-monarchy protests in Kathmandu, reflecting increased pressure on the Nepalese government.
India ranks as the third most polluted country with an AQI of 111. Northern Indian cities, especially in the NCR, face extreme air pollution, with Delhi's AQI soaring to hazardous levels. Major contributing factors include vehicle emissions, stubble burning, and industrial pollutants.
The central government banned the Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM) for five years. They were accused of spreading anti-India propaganda and promoting secessionism in the Union territory. The Ministry of Home Affairs declared them unlawful under the Unlawful Activities Act. The groups were also accused of supporting separatists and raising funds for terrorist activities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India arrived in France for a two-day visit, greeted by French President Emmanuel Macron. PM Modi met US Vice President JD Vance and congratulated him on his electoral victory. Both leaders will co-chair the AI Action Summit in Paris. PM Modi will also launch India's first consulate in Marseille before heading to the United States.