Congress has criticized the Centre's recent GST cuts as belated, arguing the original tax design was flawed. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the rate reductions, effective September 22, shifting many items to the 5% and 18% slabs, with some items now at 0% and others at a 40% 'sin tax' rate.
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Gurgaon faced severe traffic disruptions on Monday due to waterlogged roads and numerous vehicle breakdowns. Commuters experienced extensive delays, particularly on the Delhi-Jaipur Expressway and key intersections. The traffic police responded to around 200 distress calls, deploying personnel and cranes to manage the chaos.
Banks across multiple Indian states remained closed on September 5 due to Id-E-Milad and Thiruvonam, as per the RBI holiday calendar. While digital banking services continued uninterrupted, physical branch visits were necessary for certain transactions. Maharashtra, however, shifted the Eid-e-Milad holiday in Mumbai to September 8, 2025, impacting government securities and related markets.
Prime Minister Modi's China visit after seven years signals a potential reset in relations amidst global trade tensions. Discussions with President Xi Jinping focused on enhancing mutual trust, maintaining border peace, and expanding bilateral trade and investment. Both leaders emphasized strategic autonomy and the need for cooperation on global issues, viewing each other as development partners, not rivals.
In Aligarh's Daunkoli village, Archana, a 35-year-old woman, allegedly jumped from her roof after enduring years of dowry-related abuse. A video surfaced showing the aftermath, leading to a police case against her husband and in-laws. They are accused of demanding additional dowry of Rs 5 lakh and a motorcycle.
Rishi Nair, a 19-year-old BITS Pilani Goa student from Bengaluru, was found dead in his hostel room, marking the fifth student death in ten months. Police report Rishi was battling depression following his girlfriend's suicide. His parents had moved him to the Goa campus for support.
In Delhi's Najafgarh, Aman allegedly killed his wife Rajni due to disagreements over her social media activity. He then tried to commit suicide. Neighbours found Rajni dead and Aman unconscious. Police arrived and took Aman to the hospital. He is now in custody. Rajni had thousands of followers on Instagram. The couple often fought about her online presence.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Manipur government, and Kuki-Zo groups have signed a tripartite Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, aiming to restore peace after the ethnic conflict. Key provisions include maintaining Manipur's territorial integrity, reopening National Highway-2, and relocating militant camps. The agreement emphasizes a negotiated solution and strict enforcement of revised ground rules to ensure lasting stability.
Bollywood music has found its way into Hollywood films. Indian songs appear in movies like Ghost World and Inside Man. These tracks build cultural bridges. They introduce Western audiences to India's musical heritage. AR Rahman's music is a recurring presence. Bollywood songs evoke nostalgia and humor. They resonate with the Indian diaspora.
Despite US pressure, India and Russia reaffirmed their strong ties at the SCO summit, with PM Modi and President Putin emphasizing their nations' enduring friendship and cooperation. Modi highlighted the importance of their partnership for global stability, while Putin noted the positive momentum in trade and economic relations.
Foreign secretary Vikram Misri emphasized Quad's role in Indo-Pacific peace and development as PM Modi prepares to visit Japan. The US and India reaffirmed their commitment to a secure Indo-Pacific through Quad. Modi and Ishiba will discuss Quad cooperation, aiming to upgrade security cooperation and boost defense ties, while Japan plans a $68 billion investment in India.