I&B Ministry Extends Feedback Window for Draft Broadcasting Bill Until October 15
The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has announced an extension for feedback on the draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill until October 15. This decision comes as the ministry plans to release a revised draft following comprehensive consultations with stakeholders.
BJP and RSS Engage in Discussions Over Next Party President and Bangladeshi Hindu Matters
As the BJP and RSS deliberate on the upcoming election for the next BJP president, discussions are intensifying before the scheduled “samanvay” (coordination) meeting of Sangh Parivar affiliates in Palakkad later this month.
India’s Consumer Price Inflation Drops to Five-Year Low of 3.54% in July
India’s consumer price inflation has moderated to a nearly five-year low of 3.54% in July. This decrease is attributed to a slowdown in food price increases, which fell from June’s six-month high of 9.4% to 5.4%. This shift is influenced by base effects from last July, when retail inflation was reported at 7.4%.
Citizenship Granted to 20 Afghan Sikhs Under Citizenship Amendment Act
In New Delhi, twenty Afghan Sikhs have received citizenship, having applied online nearly 100 days ago under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) of 2019. This marks the first group to gain citizenship under this provision.
NIRF Ranking 2024: IIT Madras Maintains Top Position for Sixth Consecutive Year
The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras has been recognized as the best higher education institution in India for the sixth consecutive year. This ranking is part of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and is based on well-defined parameters.
Western Allies Urge Iran to Refrain from Threatening Israel
In a significant diplomatic move, the United States and European allies have urged Iran to “stand down” amid escalating fears of an imminent attack on Israel, which may ignite a broader conflict in the Middle East. The U.S. has deployed a missile submarine and an aircraft carrier group to reinforce its commitment to Israel.
Rajasthan Faces Heavy Rains, Death Toll Rises to 22
In Rajasthan, heavy rainfall has led to eight more fatalities, raising the total death toll to 22 over the past two days. Meteorological officials predict that the heavy rains may persist in the eastern region for the next four to five days.
Bangladesh Government Affirms Continued Good Relations with India Amid Political Crisis
A senior adviser in Bangladesh’s interim government stated that the extended stay of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India will not negatively impact bilateral relations, emphasizing Dhaka’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with New Delhi.
Centre Takes Cautious Stance on Supreme Court’s Sub-Quota Ruling Amid Criticism
In light of widespread opposition to the Supreme Court’s findings regarding the “creamy layer” in Scheduled Castes sub-categorization, the Centre is taking a guarded approach to its interpretation and potential actions regarding the ruling.
NCERT Report Reveals Issues in KGBV Schools: Focus on Transparency and Infrastructure
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has published a report highlighting significant challenges in 254 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBV), including lack of financial transparency, weak infrastructure, staff shortages, low teacher salaries, and concerns regarding student safety. This report has been submitted to the Ministry of Education.
Indian Medical Association Calls for Special Law to Protect Healthcare Workers Following Kolkata Incident
The Indian Medical Association has urged the Union Health Minister to implement a special law aimed at preventing violence against healthcare professionals. This demand follows protests and strikes by resident doctors nationwide in response to the recent tragic incident involving a postgraduate trainee in Kolkata, emphasizing the critical need for workplace safety in medical fields.
Magnitude 4.4 Earthquake Shakes Southern California, No Major Damage Reported
A 4.4 magnitude earthquake was felt across Southern California, from Los Angeles to San Diego, causing buildings to sway and triggering vehicle alarms. Luckily, initial reports indicate no significant damage or injuries. The quake was centred near Highland Park, northeast of Los Angeles.
