Manmohan Singh's state funeral was conducted with full military honors, attended by politicians, dignitaries, and family members. Despite tensions between Congress and BJP over memorial sites, the event remained dignified. The ceremony included military bands, ceremonial marching, and Sikh priests reciting verses, with Singh's daughter lighting the pyre.
Related news
CBSE has approved draft norms for conducting Class-10 board exams twice a year starting from 2026. Both editions will cover the full syllabus, but practical assessments will only occur once. This allows students multiple attempts to showcase their abilities, aligning with the NEP 2020's flexible, student-centric approach.
Under PM Manmohan Singh’s tenure, landmark social sector initiatives were introduced by the UPA, including RTI, NREGA, RTE, and the Right to Food. These initiatives originated from Sonia Gandhi-led National Advisory Council and were crucial in policy reforms, including OBC quotas and a significant farm loan package.
Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar highlighted concerns about misinformation and manipulation via social media during elections. He urged the creation of a plan where algorithms clarify rather than distort information. Kumar also called for big tech companies to implement measures to prevent fake content and emphasized judicial oversight and robust cyber defense mechanisms to protect the electoral process.
Punjab minister Harpal Singh Cheema accused Congress of "backstabbing" AAP in Chandigarh mayoral polls by secretly aligning with BJP, leading to BJP's victory. Cheema alleged that this alliance also helped Congress secure deputy and senior deputy mayor posts. He warned Delhi voters against supporting Congress, claiming any vote for them benefits BJP.
In Gurugram, a Rapido driver named Vikas assisted in the delivery of a baby inside his cab, ensuring both mother and newborn's safety. He then drove them to the hospital and only charged the standard fare. His kindness was shared on Reddit, with users urging recognition and appreciation for his selfless act.
Union minister Ramdas Athawale has demanded the resignation of Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann over the vandalism of Baba Saheb Ambedkar's statue in Amritsar. He accused the Aam Aadmi Party government of "laxity" in the matter and called for Mann to take moral responsibility. Athawale also criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for threatening the constitution.
An Indian Army havildar, Yaali Ansari, has allegedly deserted his unit in Chandimandir, Panchkula, leaving a note that he has obtained a visa and is pursuing his dream job abroad. He left behind his military ID, a provident fund amount, and salary totaling Rs 10 lakh.
The Bombay High Court granted bail to Rona Wilson and Sudhir Dhawale, accused in the Elgar Parishad Maoist Links case, due to prolonged incarceration and a pending trial. Bail conditions include reporting to the NIA weekly. The case involves inflammatory speeches and alleged Maoist connections.
Union Minister Pankaj Chaudhary announced the government's commitment to extraditing fugitives like Mehul Choksi, accused in the Punjab National Bank loan scam. Speaking at the National Academy of Direct Taxes, he highlighted the strict actions against tax defaulters under the current regime. Chaudhary also noted the country's economic progress, including the Mudra scheme's success and infrastructure development since 2014.
Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a sand sculpture on Puri beach to welcome the Union Budget 2025, ahead of its presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The budget is highly anticipated, with expectations for measures on economic growth, tax relief, and support for key industries.