Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Punjab has banned American soft drinks, including Coca-Cola and Pepsi, from its campus. Announced by Chancellor Ashok Kumar Mittal, the move responds to the US doubling tariffs on Indian goods to 50%. Framed as part of a modern ‘Swadeshi 2.0’ campaign, the ban encourages students and citizens to prioritise Indian products, echoing the 1905 Swadeshi movement.
Related news
Uddhav Thackeray visited cousin Raj Thackeray's residence for Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai, fueling speculation of a potential alliance for upcoming civic polls. This marks their third public interaction, following Raj's birthday visit to Uddhav in July. Their renewed bonhomie was also evident during a joint political appearance protesting language policies.
Relentless monsoon rains have triggered devastating floods and landslides across Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Punjab, and Haryana, resulting in at least 500 deaths. Thousands are stranded as highways are blocked, rivers surge above danger levels, and crops are flattened. Punjab has declared a state of disaster, while rescue efforts continue amidst widespread destruction and infrastructure damage.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju halted his convoy on the Srinagar-Leh highway upon witnessing a vehicle plunge into the Drass river in Ladakh. Rijiju shared a video showing him speaking to the injured victims.
Indian refiners are increasing their purchases of US crude oil in August due to competitive pricing, potentially reducing the trade imbalance with the US amidst diplomatic tensions. Despite US tariffs, India remains committed to its strategic autonomy in procuring Russian crude, with plans to further increase Russian oil imports in September.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced significant GST rate cuts, effective September 22, bringing relief to the common man. Daily use items like hair oil, soaps, and toothpaste now fall under the 5% tax bracket. Several items, including ultra-high temperature milk and paneer, face zero tax. Air conditioners, TVs, and small cars are now taxed at 18%.
Rahul Gandhi intensified his "vote chori" charge during his Bihar rally, accusing PM Modi, Amit Shah, and the ECI of manipulating elections through a "Gujarat model" of vote theft. He claimed to possess evidence of electoral fraud in multiple states, including Maharashtra, where the ECI allegedly inflated votes favouring the BJP after the Lok Sabha elections.
Balvinder Singh Sandhu defends Jasprit Bumrah's workload management amid criticism, highlighting the physical demands of fast bowling and the double standards faced by bowlers compared to batsmen. Sandhu reveals statistics showing Bumrah's minimal rest periods over the past seven years. Mohammed Kaif also supports Bumrah's T20I comeback, despite fitness concerns raised during the England series.
Cloudbursts struck Uttarakhand's Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts on Thursday night, trapping families and causing injuries. Debris flows blocked areas, prompting urgent rescue operations. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is overseeing relief efforts and coordinating with officials. This is the second cloudburst to hit the region this week, following earlier damage in Chamoli.
Kim Jong Un's daughter, believed to be Ju Ae, made her first public appearance abroad in Beijing, sparking speculation about her potential succession. South Korean intelligence suggests she is the leading candidate, despite doubts about a female ruler in the dynasty. Ju Ae has been increasingly visible at high-profile events, hinting at a growing role within the regime.
India bids to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Ahmedabad is proposed as the host city for the Centenary edition. The bid emphasizes 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' and 'Atithi Devo Bhava'. PT Usha highlights India's sporting capabilities and values. The Games aim to inspire a new generation through sport. This aligns with India's vision to be a leading sporting nation.