Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee accused the BSF of facilitating illegal border-crossing from Bangladesh, alleging a central government agenda to undermine her administration. She plans to address this with the Centre. The BSF refuted the claims, emphasizing their commitment to their duties at the border. Banerjee also attributed the murder of a local TMC leader to police negligence.
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Over the past two years, the CIA developed an AI chatbot to help analysts create detailed profiles of foreign leaders, enhancing the agency's tech capabilities. Under Director William Burns, technology-focused initiatives were prioritized, with Chief Technology Officer Nand Mulchandani spearheading efforts to modernize the workspace and foster collaborations with private tech firms.
A woman in Shamli's Thanabhavan area died after undergoing surgery without anaesthesia by an unqualified individual at an unauthorised private hospital, causing massive blood loss. The facility was found locked after the incident, and a complaint has been filed against the accused.
In 2023-24, 58% of manufacturing establishments were led by female proprietors, marking a 4 percentage point increase from the previous year, according to the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises. Notably, female workers constituted 28.1% of the total workforce during the year.
In 2024, India experienced over 3,200 deaths due to extreme weather events. Notably, lightning and thunderstorms claimed 1,374 lives, floods and heavy rains caused 1,287 fatalities, and heat waves led to 459 deaths. The year was the hottest on record, with significant temperature increases across various regions. Additionally, several cities reported new temperature and rainfall records, highlighting the impact of climate change.
Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan underwent surgery to remove a knife fragment from his spine after being attacked at his Mumbai residence. The surgery, involving neurosurgery and plastic surgery, was successful. Khan, 54, is in stable condition and recovering in the ICU. Doctors anticipate moving him to a ward and possibly discharging him within a few days.
An explosion at an explosives plant in Turkey's Balikesir province killed 12 people and injured five others. The blast caused part of the plant to collapse. Authorities suggested technical reasons might be behind it. President Erdogan expressed sorrow and ordered a comprehensive investigation. The plant produces munitions and is a significant player in Turkey's defense industry.
A gunfight between two nephews of Union state home minister Nityanand Rai in Bihar's Bhagalpur led to one death and one injury. The incident stemmed from a minor dispute that escalated, with both brothers shooting at each other. Statements are currently being recorded by the police.
The UGC announced major changes to the 2025 CUET-UG exam, including reducing subjects to 37, shifting to exclusively computer-based testing, and standardizing exam duration to 60 minutes. Candidates can now choose subjects not studied in Class 12, but are limited to five choices. These revisions aim to streamline the process and address past logistical challenges.
The Union Cabinet, led by PM Narendra Modi, approved a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for Central Government employees and pensioners, effective January 1, 2025. The rate rise from 53% to 55% aims to combat inflation, impacting over 115 lakh individuals, with costs estimated at Rs 6,614.04 crore annually.
The Senate confirmed John Ratcliffe as CIA director, making him President Trump's second cabinet member. Ratcliffe plans to enhance the CIA's use of technology to counter threats like Russia and China while safeguarding civil rights. Despite concerns from Democrats, he was confirmed 74-25.