Business News›News›Newsblogs›Delhi Air Pollution Live Updates: SC orders continuation of GRAP IV measures until Dec 2; exempts school closures
28 Nov 2024 | 06:20:23 PM IST
Synopsis
Delhi Air Pollution Live Updates: In the light of continued air pollution crisis in New Delhi, the Supreme Court ordered the continuation of GRAP IV measures until in the national capital until December 2; though exempted school closures. The apex court also asked the Punjab government to instruct its officers not to advise farmers to burn stubble after 4pm to avoid satellite detection.
Delhi Air Pollution Live Updates: In the light of continued air pollution crisis in New Delhi, the Supreme Court ordered the continuation of GRAP IV measures until in the national capital until December 2; though exempted school closures. The apex court also asked the Punjab government to instruct its officers not to advise farmers to burn stubble after 4pm to avoid satellite detection.
Meanwhile, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Hemant Soren was sworn in as the 14th Chief Minister of Jharkhand for a second term on Thursday. As per the power-sharing agreement among the INDIA bloc partners, several cabinet ministers, including five from the JMM, will also take the oath alongside him. The event was attended by several prominent political leaders, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, former Delhi CM and Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
In other news, Sambhal Police announced today that three individuals—Faizan, Aamir, and Mohammad Ali—have been arrested in connection with the violence that occurred on November 24 in the Uttar Pradesh district. The incident over a court-ordered survey of a mosque leading to communal riots resulted in the death of four individuals.
Also, both houses of Parliament back were adjourned for the day on Day 4 of the Winter Session amid uproar from the Opposition over several issues. Prior to adjournment, the Lok Sabha nodded to the extension of submitting a report by the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 to the last day of the Budget Session, 2025. Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi and Ravindra Chavan also took oaths as Members of Parliament in the Lok Sabha on the fourth day at 11 am.
In world news, the Bangladesh High Court declined to issue a suo motu order to ban the activities of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), following information that government authorities have already taken necessary actions. Supreme Court lawyer Md Monir Uddin had presented newspaper reports about ISKCON to the court on Wednesday, requesting a suo motu order directing the government to ban the organization and impose Section 144 in Chattogram, Rangpur, and Dinajpur. The court, however, asked the Attorney General to provide details on the steps the government has taken in response to ISKCON’s recent activities.
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PM Modi congratulates Hemant Soren
Adani Power achieves top sustainability score in global rankings with 67/100 in S&P Global assessment
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Indian Youth Congress president Uday Bhanu Chib, other workers detained in protest in Gujarat’s Mundra amid Adani row
Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj criticises India’s silence on ISKCON priest’s imprisonment in Bangladesh, urges action
“ISKCON is known in the entire world – that these people (of ISKCON) spread the message of Bhagwad Gita, love and peace. They help people in an emergency… It’s inhuman to imprison a priest of ISKCON. I hope the govt of India will talk to Bangladesh govt in this regard, it’s unfortunate that the central govt is silent on this issue, till now,” he told the media.
A former British soldier has been convicted of passing on sensitive information to the Iranian government, reports AP
Manish Sisodia calls for action on Chinmay Krishna Das’s arrest in Bangladesh
“Arvind Kejriwal and all of us are concerned over the arrest of Chinmay Krishna Das in Bangladesh and the situation prevailing in the country. We cam here (at ISKCON temple in Delhi) to know about his health and how he is doing there. ISKCON has always spread the message of love and harmony, calling them terrorists should not be acceptable anywhere in the world, not just India. I request the Indian govt, we feel there is need for more to be done. The govt should make use of India’s influence and ensure the release of Chinmay Krishna Das, Amit Shah and PM Modi should see this personally. They should also take care of the safety of everyone, whether someone associated with ISKCON or a Hindu, in Bangladesh,” he told the media after visiting ISKCON temple in East of Kailash, Delhi.
West Bengal | ISKCON volunteers organise Kirtan protest against arrest of ISKCON priest Chinmoy Das by Dhaka police
ISKCON communication director calls Bangladesh’s labeling of ISKCON as a terrorist group baseless, condemns violence against devotees
Communication Director, ISKCON, Vrajendra Nandan Das says, “…If an institution like ISKCON is called a terrorist and radical organisation in Bangladesh, it’s a baseless thing and a lie. No one – in India and around the world will accept this… Those devotees who organised Bhandara and fed needy people – were killed. I hope that the interim govt of Bangladesh will take strict action against the culprits and I expect them to give proper security to Hindus,” Vrajendra Nandan Das told the media on Thursday.
Israeli foreign minister says war in Gaza will end when objectives are achieved
Reported Reuters.
Reliance Industries says unit acquires 21% stake In Wavetech Helium
Fire breaks out at water supply treatment plant in Madhya Pradesh; several fire tenders at spot
Air pollution: SC says all GRAP IV measures except relating to schools will continue to operate till Dec 2
In the light of continued air pollution crisis in New Delhi, the Supreme Court ordered the continuation of GRAP IV measures until in the national capital until December 2; though exempted school closures. The apex court also asked the Punjab government to instruct its officers not to advise farmers to burn stubble after 4pm to avoid satellite detection.
JMM supremo Hemant Soren sworn in as 14th Chief Minister of Jharkhand
Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Hemant Soren was sworn in as the 14th Chief Minister of Jharkhand for a second term on Thursday. As per the power-sharing agreement among the INDIA bloc partners, several cabinet ministers, including five from the JMM, will also take the oath alongside him.
Ahead of the ceremony, all MLAs of the INDIA alliance convened at Soren’s residence in Ranchi on Sunday, where Soren was re-elected as the leader of the alliance. Later, he, along with leaders from Congress, RJD, and CPI(ML)(L), met Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar and formally staked his claim to form the next government.
The JMM-led INDIA alliance secured a dominant victory in the state assembly elections, winning 56 out of 81 seats on Saturday.
Hemant Soren CM Ceremony: Akhilesh Yadav, Tejashwi Yadav, Tariq Anwar, Pappu Yadav arrive in Ranchi’s Morabadi Ground
The event is being attended by several other prominent political leaders as well, including Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, former Delhi CM and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.
Hemant Soren CM Ceremony: Tamil Nadu Deputy CM, DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin arrives in Ranchi
Nitin Soren, son of Jharkhand CM-designate Hemant Soren, speaks to media at swearing-in ceremony
Jharkhand: Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi arrive in Ranchi to attend swearing-in ceremony of next Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren
JMM national president Shibu Soren, wife Roopi Soren attend oath ceremony of Hemant Soren
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee arrives at Ranchi airport, to attend the oath-taking ceremony of Jharkhand CM-designate Hemant Soren
Jharkhand CM-Designate Hemant Soren visits at Shibu Soren’s residence
Ahead of being sworn as the 14th Chief Minister of Jharkhand today, JMM supremo Hemant Soren visited the residence of party chief Shibu Soren.
Ahead of Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s oath-taking, wife Kalpana Soren’s mother thanks people for blessings
NSG commandos, dog dquad deployed after explosion in Delhi’s Prashant Vihar
NSG commandos and a dog squad arrived at the site of a low-intensity blast near the PVR multiplex in Prashant Vihar, Rohini. The explosion, which occurred near a parked three-wheeler, left the vehicle’s driver with minor injuries. The area has been cordoned off by police for further investigation.
AU Small Finance Bank in pact with Bharti AXA Life Insurance for life insurance solutions
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Three arrested in Sambhal Violence Case
Sambhal Police announced today that three individuals—Faizan, Aamir, and Mohammad Ali—have been arrested in connection with the violence that occurred on November 24.
Delhi extends EV policy till March 2025
“I am happy to say that Delhi Cabinet has taken the decision to start the EV Policy again in Delhi. Electric vehicles purchased on Jan 1, 2024 and will get subsidy, road tax exemption,” ” she said at a press conference.
Delhi govt approves grant of Rs 17 crore to DSFDC for paying pending salaries to its employees: CM Atishi
OPEC+ meeting pushed to Dec 5; COP16 biodiversity talks to Resume in Rome in Feb
OPEC+ has postponed its upcoming meeting, initially scheduled for Sunday, to December 5, according to a statement. Meanwhile, the COP16 biodiversity talks will restart in Rome from February 25-27, 2025, the UN confirmed.
Delhi EV policy extended till March 2025
“EV Policy of Delhi was praised across the country. For the last 10 months, attempts to create hurdles in this EV Policy were made. Those who are buying an EV vehicle are not getting subsidy and road tax exemption, because political parties wanted to stop this policy. However, I am happy to say that Delhi Cabinet has taken the decision to start the EV Policy again…Electric vehicles purchased on Jan 1, 2024 and will get subsidy, road tax exemption,” she said at a press conference.
G degrees completed earlier or later to be treated at par with standard duration degrees: UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar to PTI
UGC approves norms for HEIs to offer Accelerated Degree Programme, Extended Degree Programme to UG students: Jagadesh Kumar
UG students to get option to shorten, extend completion of their degree courses than stipulated duration: UGC Chief Jagadesh Kumar to PTI
Bengaluru Terror Conspiracy Case: NIA secures extradition of Lashkar-e-Taiba fugitive Salman Khan from Rwanda
In a significant development in the Bengaluru prisons terror conspiracy case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has successfully extradited Salman Khan, a key fugitive member of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group, from Rwanda.
The NIA had registered a case against Khan for offences related to criminal conspiracy, membership in a terrorist organisation, providing support to a terrorist group, and violations of the Arms Act and Explosive Substances Act. Khan, a member of the internationally proscribed LeT, is accused of assisting in the provision of arms, ammunition, and explosives to facilitate terrorist activities in Bengaluru, as per the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Bangladesh High Court refuses to ban ISKCON
The Bangladesh High Court on Thursday declined to issue a suo motu order to ban the activities of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), following information that government authorities have already taken necessary actions.
Supreme Court lawyer Md Monir Uddin had presented newspaper reports about ISKCON to the court on Wednesday, requesting a suo motu order directing the government to ban the organization and impose Section 144 in Chattogram, Rangpur, and Dinajpur. The court, however, asked the Attorney General to provide details on the steps the government has taken in response to ISKCON’s recent activities.
Parliament Winter Session | Karti Chidambaram criticises govt for stalling Lok Sabha proceedings, urges space for Opposition
“It is unfortunate that he House (Lok Sabha) is not functioning. The government is not giving the space for the opposition to raise issues of importance. The government must yield and give a space to raise issues of importance. The government need to feel insecure in anyway because they have the numbers and they should allow us to have our say,” he told PTI.
Delhi High Court reserves order on anticipatory bail plea of former IAS Officer Puja Khedkar
The Delhi High Court reserved its order on the anticipatory bail plea of former IAS officer Puja Khedkar on Thursday. She is facing charges filed by the Delhi Police, accusing her of cheating and unlawfully claiming benefits under the OBC and disability quotas in the civil services examination.
‘We are confident the group will resolve its issues:’ Israel envoy to India on Adani’s US indictment
Israel’s Ambassador to India has expressed confidence that the Adani Group will be able to resolve the challenges arising from its recent indictment in the US, repoeted Reuters. He emphasised that Israel partners with companies for long-term engagements and that the ongoing legal issues are not seen as problematic from Israel’s perspective.
China says reports of defence minister Dong in corruption probe ‘pure fabrications’
Reported AFP.
Three killed in truck-bus collision in Gujarat
Three people lost their lives in a collision between a truck and a bus on Tarapur-Dharmaj Road in Anand District this morning, confirmed the Superintendent of Police, Anand.
Priyanka Gandhi wows to prioritise national issues after taking oath as Lok Sabha MP
“The priority will be to raise important issues concerning the nation…There is nothing above the Constitution for us and we will continue to fight for it,” she said.
China places high-ranking military official under investigation, says Defence Ministry spokesperson
Reported AP.
China tells ICC to be ‘just and fair’ after it sought warrant for Myanmar junta chief
Police arrive at the farmhouse in Delhi’s Bijwasan area where an ED was attacked while conducting raids
Blast reported in Prashant Vihar, Delhi; fire service responds
Delhi Fire Service has confirmed receiving a call about a blast in the Prashant Vihar area at 11:48 am today. Fire tenders have reached the site, and further details are awaited.
Rights of Muslims will be snatched by Waqf Bill, claims West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee in assembly
She also alleged that the Waqf Bill is anti-federal and anti-secular, and is targeted towards a particular section of society.
Bank Of China forecasts China’s 2025 GDP growth at around 5%
Government takes action to expedited fertiliser supplies amid local availability issues
The Government of India is working in coordination with state governments, the Railways, and fertilizer companies to address local availability issues and ensure the timely and efficient supply of DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate), it said in a press release on Thursday.
Delhi High Court grants anticipatory bail to Bobi, first transgender MCD Councillor
The Delhi High Court has granted anticipatory bail to Bobi, the first transgender MCD Councillor, who is accused of obtaining a caste certificate through fabricated documents.
Bangladeshi academic calls sedition charges against ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das ‘unfortunate’
Renowned Bangladeshi academic Dr. Nazmul Ahsan Kalimullah on Wednesday described the sedition charges against ISKCON monk Chinmoy Krishna Das as “unfortunate,” emphasizing that he had every right to propagate his views.
“I believe that the gesture of his followers was misunderstood, and I personally believe that the charge of sedition is unfortunate. He has every right to express his opinion and propagate what he believes. We all are aspiring to establish a plural society. Pluralism is the fundamental basis for establishing democracy in the country,” Kalimullah said.
Malaysian billionaire Ananda Krishnan has died, says company
GAIL re-engages Process Licensor for revival of PTA Manufacturing Plant in Mangalore
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NIA registers case against Salman Rehman Khan for terrorism-related offences
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered a case involving criminal conspiracy, membership of a terrorist organisation, and support for terrorist activities, along with violations of the Arms Act and Explosive Substances Act. Salman Rehman Khan, a member of the internationally proscribed terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), is accused of assisting in the provision of arms, ammunition, and explosives to further terrorist activities in Bengaluru, according to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Parliament Winter Session Day 4| Lok Sabha Adjourned amid opposition uproar over Sambhal violence, Adani allegations
The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day following an uproar by the opposition over several issues, including the violence in Sambhal and ongoing allegations against the Adani Group.
Parliament Winter Session Day 4| Rajya Sabha adjourned for day after opposition uproar over multiple issues
Lok Sabha approves extension for Joint panel on Waqf (amendment) Bill gets till end of Budget Session 2025
BJP leader Jagdambika Pal said that the committee needs more time to present Waqf Bill amid disputes over state-owned properties.
“In yesterday’s meeting we decided that there are 6 states where the properties of state governments are claimed by waqf, and there is a dispute between the states and the waqf board. We have sought replies from these 6 states, but we have not received any response. We felt that we need more time, and today, the resolution will come allowing us to present the bill towards the end of the budget session,” he told ANI.
Delhi High Court issues notice to Delhi govt over BJP MPs’ PIL on Ayushman Bharat scheme
The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the Delhi Government in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by all seven BJP MPs from Delhi. The MPs are seeking directions for the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The next hearing of the case is scheduled for December 11, 2024.
Kolkata court orders confiscation of Rs 24 cr worth of properties of Pushpesh Kumar Baid under FEOA
A special court in Kolkata has ordered the confiscation of various movable and immovable properties worth Rs 24 crore belonging to Pushpesh Kumar Baid and others, under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA), 2018. Earlier, on January 3, 2024 the court had declared Baid as Fugitive Economic Offender.
ED initiated investigation based on eight FIRs and charge sheet filed by the CBI, Kolkata against Baid and others in relation to bank fraud case: ED
Owaisi slams BJP-RSS over controversy surrounding Ajmer Sharif Dargah, questions rule of law
“The dargah has been there for the last 800 years…Prime Ministers starting from Nehru have been sending ‘Chadar’ to the dargah. PM Modi too sends ‘Chadar’ there…Why have BJP-RSS spread this hatred regarding mosques and dargahs? Why are the lower courts not hearing the Places of Worship Act?…This way where will the rule of law and democracy go? This is not in favour of the country. The governance of Modi and RSS is weakening the rule of law in the country. All this is being done on the directions of BJP-RSS,” he told ANI.
Mamata Banerjee comments on Bangladesh issue, calls for central government action
“We do not want any religion to be harmed. I have spoken to ISKCON here. Since this is a matter of another country, the Central government should take relevant action on this. We are with them (Central government) on this issue,” she told ANI.
BEML shares hikes value of order from Chennai Metro at Rs 3,658 crore
Vardhman Textiles board approves Rs. 350 crore investment to boost fabric capacity in Madhya Pradesh
Vardhman Textiles’ board has approved a proposal to increase the processed fabric capacity at Vardhman Fabrics in Budhni, Madhya Pradesh, by approximately 31 million meters per annum. The expansion project will involve a total capital investment of Rs. 350 crore.
Price as on 11.30.32 AM, Click on company names for their live prices.
Nuclear-capable ballistic missile tested from INS Arighaat
Opposition leaders protest inside Assembly premises in Patna
Satish Gupta appointed liquidator for Jet Airways
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Parliament Winter Session | Rajya Sabha adjourned till 12 pm
Parliament Winter Session | Lok Sabha adjourned till 12 pm
NTPC announces commercial operation of 55 MW from Shajapur solar project, raising total capacity to 76,530.68 MW
NTPC has announced that its subsidiary has declared the commercial operation of the first 55 MW out of the 105 MW capacity of the Shajapur Solar Project in Madhya Pradesh. With this, the total installed and commercial capacity of the NTPC Group now stands at 76,530.68 MW as of November 29, 2024.
Price as on 11.08.16 AM, Click on company names for their live prices.
Priyanka Gandhi, Ravindra Chavan take oath as MPs in Lok Sabha
Priyanka Gandhi won the Wayanad seat with a record margin after her brother Rahul Gandhi vacated the seat following his victory in Rae Bareli. Priyanka’s win, with a margin of over 4.1 lakh votes, surpasses her brother’s previous tally from the same constituency. This marks her entry into the Lok Sabha, a significant moment in her political journey.
Ravindra Vasantrao Chavan won the Nanded seat in a tightly contested bypoll after the death of Congress MP Vasantrao Chavan. After a recount, Chavan secured a victory with a margin of 1,457 votes, defeating BJP’s Santukrao Hambarde.
Both leaders’ entries come at a crucial time for Congress, with the party seeking to regain its footing after setbacks in key states. Priyanka’s political debut in the Lok Sabha raises expectations for a potential revival of the party’s fortunes.
We look forward to Priyanka Gandhi’s induction: Gaurav Gogoi
“We look forward to Priyanka Gandhi’s induction and oath-taking in Lok Sabha. I think she would be a powerful voice for Wayanad and the nation,” he told PTI.
Lok Sabha LoP, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi arrives at Parliament as Priyanka Gandhi Vadra set to take oath as MP shortly
Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra along with Rajya Sabha MP Sonia Gandhi arrives in Parliament
Delhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra leaves from her residence ahead of taking the oath as the MP for Wayanad in Lok Sabha later today
Jairam Ramesh criticises PM for focusing on inflated inflation figures instead of addressing rising costs
Winter Session | Today’s agenda for Lok Sabha
Oath or Affirmation:
The following members to take oath or make the affirmation, sign the Roll of Members, and take their seats in the House:
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency, Kerala)
Chavan Ravindra Vasantrao (Nanded Parliamentary Constituency, Maharashtra)
Papers to be Laid on the Table:
Suresh Gopi for Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
Tokhan Sahu for Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
Report of Business Advisory Committee:
Kiren Rijiju and Gaurav Gogoi to present the Fourth Report of the Business Advisory Committee.
Statements by Minister:
V. Somanna to make the following statements:
(i) Status of implementation of recommendations in the 21st Report of the Standing Committee on Water Resources on Demands for Grants (2023-2024) pertaining to the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti.
(ii) Status of implementation of recommendations in the 28th Report of the Standing Committee on Water Resources on actions taken by the Government on the 21st Report of the Committee.
Motion Regarding the Report of the Joint Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024 – Extension of Time
Shri Jagdambika Pal and Shri Dilip Saikia to move the following motion:
“That this House do extend the time for the presentation of the Report of the Joint Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, up to the last day of the Budget Session, 2025.”
Matters Under Rule 377:
The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
Legislative Business – Bills for Consideration and Passing
The Reserve Bank of India (Amendment) Bill, 2024
Nirmala Sitharaman to move that the Bill further to amend the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, the State Bank of India Act, 1955, the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1970, and the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1980, be taken into consideration.
Also to move that the Bill be passed.
The Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024
Ashwini Vaishnaw to move that the Bill further to amend the Railways Act, 1989, be taken into consideration.
Also to move that the Bill be passed.
ED team attacked during raids in Delhi; one officer injured as investigations into cybercrime network expand
An Enforcement Directorate (ED) team was attacked while conducting raids in Delhi’s Bijwasan area on Thursday. Five individuals were involved in the attack, and one suspect managed to flee the scene. The premises have been secured, and a First Information Report (FIR) is being filed. One Additional Director of the ED sustained injuries during the incident.
The raids were part of an ongoing investigation by the Enforcement Directorate’s High-Intensity Unit (HIU), which is targeting prominent chartered accountants allegedly connected to a large-scale cybercrime network operating across India. The operation follows the discovery of illicit funds being laundered through a variety of cybercrimes, including phishing scams, QR code fraud, and part-time job scams.
Spicejet says Aircastle withdraws insolvency case against company
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Ukraine peace deal can be negotiated if West acknowledges Putin’s proposal as only option: Russian Deputy Foreign Minister
Hemant Soren to take oath as 14th CM of Jharkhand today
Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar will administer the oath of office and secrecy to Soren at 4 pm.
BEML bags contract worth Rs 2,500 crore from Chennai Metro
Countrywide air alert in Ukraine due to missile threat: Air Force
Reports AFP.
Winter session of Parliament | AAP MP Sanjay Singh has given Suspension of Business notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267 on the Adani issue
60 students and seven teachers of Vasavi School escaped with minor injuries after a bus taking them to Hampi and Vijayapura for an educational school trip slid off the road near Gangavathi in Koppal, early morning today
Countrywide air alert in Ukraine due to missile threat: air force
Explosions heard in Ukriane’s Odesa, Ukrainian news outlet Zerkalo Tyzhnya reports
Karnataka: A bus carrying school students overturns near Gangavati in Koppal.
Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited Headquarters of Southern Command and was briefed on the operational preparedness of the formation.
The Chief of Army Staff also witnessed the Southern Star Idea Innovation Display, which highlighted innovative projects and indigenous R&D initiatives developed in partnership with Pune based industries, says Indian Army.
Winter session of Parliament: Congress MP Randeep Surjewala gives Suspension of Business notice in Rajya Sabha under rule 267 to discuss the Adani issue
Cong leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Ravindra Vasantrao Chavan to take oath as MPs in Lok Sabha
Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Ravindra Vasantrao Chavan will take oath as Members of Parliament in the Lok Sabha today. They were elected to the House from Wayanad and Nanded respectively in the recent Lok Sabha by-polls.
National Investigation Agency (NIA) is carrying out searches in a human trafficking case at 22 locations in six states.
US Mission to Pakistan issues security alert
The US Mission to Pakistan has issued a security alert citing ‘Threat to Serena Hotel’ in Peshawar and has instructed the mission personnel to avoid the place till December 16.
“Based on security information received by the U.S. Mission to Pakistan, U.S. Mission personnel have been instructed to avoid the Serena Hotel Peshawar located on the Khyber Road, Peshawar Golf Club, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan during the period from now through December 16, 2024”, the statement from the U.S. Mission read.
“U.S. citizens are encouraged to avoid the hotel and the area around the hotel during this period and reconsider travel plans. U.S. citizens are reminded about the “Do Not Travel” Travel Advisory for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province due to terrorism, dated September 10, 2024″, the statement noted.
It called for American citizens to follow guidelines such as avoiding the location, exercising caution, reviewing a personal security plan, monitoring local media for updates, carrying identification and cooperating with authorities, amongst other measures.
Iran to hold nuclear talks with three European powers
Iran is set to meet on Friday with France, Germany and the United Kingdom for talks on its nuclear programme after the three governments joined with the United States to have Tehran censured by the UN atomic watchdog.
Last week’s chiding prompted a defiant response from Tehran, but its officials have since signalled willingness to engage with other parties ahead of the return of US President-elect Donald Trump, whose last administration pursued a policy of “maximum pressure” against the Islamic republic.
Iranian diplomat Majid Takht-Ravanchi, who serves as the political deputy to Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, is scheduled to represent Iran in the talks on Friday.
He will meet beforehand with Enrique Mora, deputy secretary general of the EU’s foreign affairs arm, according to the IRNA state news agency.
Trump says he will work on large US ad campaign to combat fentanyl use
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said on Wednesday he “will be working on a large scale United States Advertising Campaign, explaining how bad Fentanyl is for people to use.”
In a post on Truth Social, Trump also said: “By the time the Campaign is over, everyone will know how really bad the horror of this Drug is.”
Taiwan holds air defence drill ahead of president’s Pacific trip
Taiwan’s military held an early morning air defence drill on Thursday to test its response and engagement procedures, ahead of a trip by President Lai Ching-te at the end of the week to the Pacific that will include U.S. stopovers.
China is likely to launch military drills in the coming days near Taiwan, using Lai’s upcoming trip to the Pacific and scheduled U.S. transit as a pretext, according to assessments by Taiwan and regional security officials.
China claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and says Lai is a “separatist”. Lai says only Taiwan’s people can decide their future and has repeatedly offered talks with Beijing that have been rebuffed.
Taiwan’s air force command said in a statement that made no mention of Lai’s overseas trip that for a two-hour period starting from 5 a.m. (2100 GMT Wednesday) aircraft, ships and missile systems were involved in an “overall air defence battle plan exercise”.
Russian Defence Ministry says Moscow’s forces take another east Ukrainian settlement
Russia’s Defence Ministry said on Wednesday its forces had taken control of the settlement of Nova Illinka, close to the embattled Donetsk region town of Kurakhove in eastern Ukraine.
Ukraine’s military made no mention of Nova Illinka in its daily dispatches. The town lies on the opposite bank of a reservoir from Kurakhove, one of the focal points of a steady advance through Donetsk region by Russian forces.
But Deep State, a popular Ukrainian blog tracking the movements of the armed forces, said more than a week ago that Nova Illinka had fallen into Russian hands.
US tells Ukraine to lower conscription age to 18
The outgoing US administration of President Joe Biden urged Ukraine Wednesday to reduce the minimum conscription age to 18 from 25 to tackle a manpower shortage as Russian forces press in.
The call for Kyiv to boost its ranks came amid speculation that incoming president Donald Trump will take a new approach that could include pushing Kyiv into a peace deal with Moscow.
A senior Biden administration official said that Ukraine was facing an “existential” recruitment crunch as it confronts a much larger enemy with more advanced weapons, and with its stocks of volunteers dwindling.
“The simple truth is that Ukraine is not currently mobilizing or training enough soldiers to replace their battlefield losses while keeping pace with Russia’s growing military,” said the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity.
Canada PM, premiers to work together against Trump’s tariff threat, finance minister says
Canada’s federal government and the premiers of the 10 provinces agreed to work in a united and coordinated way against a threat by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Canadian imports, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Wednesday.
“We agreed that we need to be smart, strong and united in meeting this challenge,” Freeland told reporters after a virtual meeting with the premiers called by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Trump said on Monday he would impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico until they clamped down on drugs, particularly fentanyl, and migrants crossing the border.
AstraZeneca asthma drug more effective during attack than steroids, study finds
AstraZeneca’s Fasenra, an injectable treatment for severe asthma, is more effective during attacks than the oral steroid that has been the standard of care for 50 years, cutting the need for further treatment by 30%, according to a study published on Wednesday.
The antibody drug known chemically as benralizumab was approved by U.S. and EU regulators in 2017 as a treatment for a severe form of the breathing disorder called eosinophilic asthma that targets a type of white blood cell associated with lung inflammation.
The new study, led by King’s College London researchers, involved 158 patients in Britain who were at high risk of an asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) attack.
Air pollution from fires linked to 1.5 million deaths a year
Air pollution caused by fires is linked to more than 1.5 million deaths a year worldwide, the vast majority occurring in developing countries, a major new study said on Thursday.
This death toll is expected to rise in the coming years as climate change makes wildfires more frequent and intense, according to the study in The Lancet journal.
The international team of researchers looked at existing data on “landscape fires”, which include both wildfires that rage through nature and planned fires such as controlled burns on farming land.
J-K: Anantnag police attach property worth Rs 2 cr under NDPS Act in Srigufwara
In a significant move to combat Drug abuse, Anantnag Police have attached property worth Rs 2 crores under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, reinforcing their ongoing efforts against drug peddling networks, as per a press release.
Police in Srigufwara, Anantnag seized a double-story residential house along with one Kanal of land, valued at Rs 2 crore, belonging to Mohammad Amin Malik, son of Ghulam Rasool Malik, a resident of Kanalwan. Malik, a habitual offender, was involved in case FIR No. 113/2021 at PS Srigufwara, where a substantial quantity of narcotic substances was recovered, the release added on Wednesday.
Earthquake of magnitude 4.6 jolts Tajikistan
An earthquake of magnitude 4.6 jolted Tajikistan in the late hours of Wednesday, according to the National Centre of Seismology (NCS).
As per the data shared by the National Centre of Seismology, it was noted that the earthquake took place on November 27 at 11:01 PM Indian Standard Time (IST).
The earthquake occurred at a depth of 80 kilometres.
The coordinates of the earthquake were latitude 37.21 N and Longitude 71.49 E., as per the NCS.
Pak clashes deaths: Indian-American Congressman calls for sanctions against Pak officials
An India-American Congressman has called for visa bans and freezing of assets of senior Pakistani officials following reports of an alleged attempt to cover up killings of peaceful protesters in Pakistan. Reportedly, four people were killed and 50 injured in a crackdown by authorities on a protest march by jailed former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party towards Islamabad demanding his release.
“Horrified by reports of an attempted cover-up of the alleged killings of peaceful protesters by Asim Munir’s regime in Pakistan,” Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna said.
“The US must impose visa bans and asset freezes on senior officials in the military regime,” he said.
US regulator opens wide-ranging antitrust probe into Microsoft
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission opened a broad antitrust investigation into Microsoft, a source familiar with the matter said on Wednesday, making it the latest Big Tech firm to come under scrutiny from regulators.
The FTC would be looking into its software licensing, cloud computing businesses, and practices related to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence products, the source added.
Britain tightens sanctions on employers exploiting foreign workers
Britain on Thursday set out stronger sanctions against employers who exploit foreign workers, following research showing abuses particularly in the social care sector.
Businesses that repeatedly flout visa rules or commit serious employment breaches, such as not paying the minimum wage, will be barred from recruiting foreign workers for two years, up from the current 12 months, the government said.
Joe Biden readies $725 million arms aid package for Ukraine, sources say
U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration is preparing a $725 million weapons package for Ukraine, two U.S. officials said on Wednesday, as the outgoing president seeks to bolster the government in Kyiv before leaving office in January.
According to an official familiar with the plan, the Biden administration plans to provide a variety of anti-tank weapons from U.S. stocks to blunt Russia’s advancing troops, including land mines, drones, Stinger missiles and ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS).
The package is also expected to include cluster munitions, which are typically found in Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets fired by HIMARS launchers, according to the notification, seen by Reuters.