Vaishno Devi shrine received ₹572 cr in cash donations in around 2.5 years: RTI reveals

The Vaishno Devi shrine has received ₹572.21 crore in cash donations and significant offerings of gold and silver from 2024 to June 2026, according to an RTI filed by activist Raman Kumar Sharma. This revelation comes amid ongoing court proceedings investigating alleged fake silver donations worth ₹550 crores. Strict SOPs govern donation collection and counting processes at the shrine.

Uncertainty abroad may push NRIs to secure a home base in India, says Lodha MD

Overseas uncertainty is driving Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to seek a home base in India, a trend mirrored by US buyers due to immigration concerns, according to Lodha Developers’ MD, Abhishek Lodha. Despite moderate demand impacts from the Middle East crisis, the company anticipates maintaining its pre-sales guidance while projecting a slight construction cost rise. The domestic supply chain has helped mitigate costs.

Remove religious bar on SC status for Pasmanda Muslims, Christians: Rashtriya Ulama Council

The Rashtriya Ulama Council (RUC) has urged the Central government to eliminate the Article 341 religious restriction that excludes Pasmanda Muslims and Christians from the Scheduled Castes list. RUC President Maulana Amir Rashadi criticized this 1950 ordinance as unjust, highlighting ongoing discrimination while planning to focus on marginalized communities' rights in the Uttar Pradesh elections. He condemned the BJP's empty rhetoric on Pasmanda issues and vowed to continue the fight for reservation based on social and economic status.

Two cross-border smuggling networks busted: 7 held with 10 pistols, 1kg heroin in Amritsar

Police dismantled two cross-border drug and arms smuggling networks, arresting seven individuals and recovering 10 pistols, 1.054 kg of heroin, and a drone. The arrests followed intelligence operations aimed at targeting rival gangs. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover connections to foreign smugglers and broader networks. The operation emphasizes efforts against organized crime in the region.

Cong, BJP trade barbs over delay in election for Shimla zila parishad’s key office bearers

A heated exchange between Congress and BJP emerged over the delayed elections for the Shimla Zila Parishad chairperson and vice-chairperson, with BJP leader Jai Ram Thakur criticizing Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's government for inaction. Thakur stated elected members had to petition the high court for elections 70 days post-results. Sukhu countered by questioning Thakur's prior actions and reaffirmed elections would proceed.

SC to hear TN’s plea on Cauvery issue on August 13

The Supreme Court will hear Tamil Nadu's plea Thursday for Karnataka to release 3,500 cusecs of water daily for 15 days, as mandated by the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA). Tamil Nadu alleges Karnataka’s noncompliance, despite sufficient reservoir levels. The dispute is critical for irrigation in the Cauvery Delta, affecting crucial upcoming crops.

‘Carry-back waste’ rule for Triund trekkers

To protect trekking trails, the Dharamshala forest department will launch a waste-management initiative requiring trekkers to collect their waste and return it using provided recyclable bags, with a ₹500 refundable deposit. The program starts August 11 on the Triund Trek, expanding to other routes, aiming for ecological conservation and improved facilities. In 2022-23, 77,000 trekkers used Triund.

Punjab government’s welfare schemes helping women gain dignity, independence, says minister Baljit

Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur endorsed the ‘Women Empowerment Resolution,’ emphasizing its commitment to women's dignity and equality. She highlighted the Mukh Mantri Mawan Dheeyan Satkar Yojana, benefiting over 65 lakh women, and initiatives like free bus travel to enhance mobility. The session featured supportive remarks from several MLAs on government empowerment efforts.

₹144 crore approved for 120 additional MBBS seats across 6 med colleges in Himachal: MP Kashyap

BJP’s Suresh Kumar Kashyap announced ₹144 crore funding to add 120 MBBS seats across six Himachal Pradesh medical colleges and ₹14.50 crore for 17 additional postgraduate seats, following a Union ministry report. Currently, the state has 996 MBBS seats and 400 postgraduate seats. The central government supports health initiatives while the state manages public health systems.

3 Bidar factories to be shut amid water pollution charges

The state government closed three industrial plants in Humnabad after residents reported untreated chemical waste polluting the Guruganga and Manjra rivers. Minister Eshwar Khandre mandated immediate compliance and action against the polluting industries due to health concerns. Previous complaints prompted earlier inquiries and actions, highlighting a long-standing struggle against industrial pollution in the area.

Dipke speaks to Devendra Mahto on video call: ‘He told me he was lathi-charged’

In Ranchi, protests erupted over alleged irregularities in recruitment exams, leading to police using tear gas and lathi charges, injuring many. Student leader Devendra Nath Mahto, on a hunger strike for nine days, was hospitalized after the clash. The BJP has called for a statewide bandh, condemning the police's violent response. Protests highlight inhumane treatment of students.

Savarkar row: BJP says IUML misusing power

Thiruvananthapuram: Following the suspension of a teacher over a quiz question about right-wing ideologue VD Savarkar, the BJP accused the Indian Union Muslim League of misusing power to punish educators. The teacher's inquiry deemed his question misleading, prompting BJP protests and claims of a conspiracy to alter historical narratives. The state's education minister stated investigations will persist.

Bhattakufer 2025 building collapse in monsoon: NHAI, contractor told ₹2.2 crore for building collapse during 4-laning work

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has ordered the NHAI and Gawar Shimla Highway Pvt. Ltd. to jointly pay ₹2.23 crore compensation for a building that collapsed during highway construction in 2025. The court stressed the agencies' social responsibility and directed a valuation of another unsafe property. Investigations linked the collapse to poor construction supervision and slope management.

Cops examine digital evidence as search for missing trekker widens

In the search for Bengaluru IT professional Advait Upadhyaya, missing since August 7 during a trek at Shivagange Hill, police are investigating his digital activity, including AI searches about the hill's height and fall consequences. Over 70 personnel are involved, facing challenges from slippery terrain and rain. Background efforts include reconstructing Upadhyaya's movements from August 4.

Luxury hotels, eateries raided in city over food safety issues

During a recent three-day food safety inspection of 60 hotels and fast food outlets, officials sealed Skyye Lounge after discovering 45 kg of rotten meat and expired dairy products. Violations included unsafe food handling, expired items, and non-compliance with hygiene standards. Health Minister Khader emphasized the drive’s focus on overall cleanliness, not targeting luxury establishments specifically.

Farhan Akhtar takes a dig at Ranveer over Don 3 exit: 'Seems to be a pattern'

Ranveer Singh's abrupt departure from Don 3 has polarized Bollywood, prompting legal notices and involvement from film bodies. Farhan Akhtar recently hinted at this trend during a media interaction, likening it to Saif Ali Khan's past exit from his film. Singh's exit, attributed to personal disputes over casting, spurred considerable controversy and speculation about his career.

Parliament panel flags delays in Scheduled Caste scholarships, poor utilisation of OBC, minority welfare schemes

A parliamentary committee has criticized significant delays in scholarship disbursements for Scheduled Caste students and poor uptake of coaching schemes for SC and OBC students. The committee highlighted low performance in education facilities for minorities and demanded better monitoring and accountability. It expressed concerns over inadequate skill training for persons with disabilities and budgetary discrepancies, citing a need for systematic reforms.

Free bus travel for 60+ women in Uttar Pradesh likely this month

The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) plans to offer free bus travel for women aged 60 and older, using Aadhaar for age verification through electronic ticketing machines. The initiative aims to reimburse fares via state funds, with potential rollout around Independence Day or Raksha Bandhan. Monthly, 2.75 lakh journeys by eligible women occur in the Lucknow region.

Question Hour: Punjab minister Bains promises probe into stalled road works

Local government minister Harjot Singh Bains promised an inquiry into road construction delays and idle cleaning machines following Jagraon legislator Saravjit Kaur Manuke’s complaints. Bains acknowledged the issues, stating there were no funding shortages and plans to establish usage protocols. Bains also addressed concerns about housing support for poor families and vacant librarian positions in schools.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day box office day 12: Film crashes 78% on second Monday

Tom Holland's *Spider-Man: Brand New Day* has achieved ₹423.05 crore net in India after 12 days, breaking records to become the highest-grossing Hollywood film in the country by surpassing *Avatar: The Way of Water*. After a strong opening, the film experienced a typical drop in its second week but maintains significant audience interest. The plot centers on Peter Parker, forgotten by all, as he navigates new challenges while fighting crime.

Study successful high-speed rail networks: Parliamentary panel

The parliamentary standing committee on railways has urged a thorough study of efficient high-speed rail networks globally and accelerated indigenisation of components. Their 10th report highlights the need for enhanced training at the High-Speed Rail Training Institute and supports the Union Budget's seven new corridors. Background on rising costs of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad project and future operational plans was also provided.

Lok Sabha Om Birla urges Opposition to end Parliament logjam

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged the Opposition to cooperate for smooth parliamentary proceedings after the government agreed to debate student issues, responding to ongoing disruptions. The monsoon session, which began on June 20, has faced challenges due to the Opposition's demands. Birla emphasized the need for dialogue to address critical legislative matters.

In specialised dist level healthcare, Civil Hospital performs first neurosurgery

Doctors at Syama Prasad Mukherjee Hospital successfully conducted their first neurosurgery, enhancing district-level healthcare capabilities. The surgery corrected severe neurological issues for a 37-year-old man. This advancement aims to relieve pressure on major specialty centers and improve local access to neurosurgical care. The hospital plans to expand services further, ensuring more affordable treatment options for patients.

FCRA legislation will apply to all faiths equally, bolster transparency: Indian Ambassador to US Vinay Kwatra

Indian Ambassador Vinay Kwatra defended proposed changes to the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) amid criticism from US lawmakers and civil groups, asserting that the act aligns with global norms for regulating foreign funds. He clarified that concerns over asset seizure and religious discrimination are unfounded, emphasizing the act's aim to ensure transparency. The FCRA has existed in India since 1976, with recent amendments meant to enhance clarity on asset management.

Zero Hour: Punjab Opposition flags recruitment of ‘outsiders’ in Punjab

The Congress party criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for recruiting candidates from outside Punjab, labeling it an "anomaly." Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa highlighted that many health workers and power corporation recruits were from Haryana and Rajasthan. AAP's Health Minister Balbir Singh defended the hires, stating local candidates were prioritized. Concerns over rapid bill passage and local demands were also raised.

Ex-paramilitary alliance meets 8th pay commission chair, places 14-point memorandum

A three-member delegation from the Alliance of All Ex Para-Military Forces Welfare Association met the 8th Central Pay Commission chairperson, Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai, presenting a 14-point memorandum for benefits for Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel. Key demands included restoration of the Old Pension Scheme and One Rank One Pension. The meeting followed ongoing litigation concerning the newly enacted Central Armed Police Force Act.

Four arrested in armed robbery at Kurukshetra advocate’s house

Four individuals were arrested in Haryana's Kurukshetra following an armed robbery at an advocate's residence, with police recovering Rs 5.50 lakh. The robbery occurred on August 6, when the advocate, Balwant Singh Walia, returned home to find armed men threatening him and his wife. The culprits are suspected of executing the crime after observing the house.

Guest Column | Beyond the crop: Why value addition is key to agri growth

Despite contributing only 14-15% to GDP, agriculture underpins 46.1% of the workforce, revealing an imbalance where too many rely on low incomes. To build agriculture’s future, we must boost productivity, diversify into allied sectors, and enhance value beyond the farm. A long-term agricultural reform plan is essential to ensure sustainable growth and trust between farmers and the government.

Punjab: Need to strengthen anti-drone surveillance, CM Mann tells Army Chief

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann met with Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, advocating for enhanced collaboration to bolster state and national security, strengthen border defenses, and increase military recruitment among Punjabis. He emphasized the state's commitment to anti-drone measures and veteran welfare, highlighting initiatives like job support for ex-servicemen and land contributions to the army, acknowledging Punjab's historical role in national integrity.

Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad roads witness traffic. Check routes to avoid

Traffic in Delhi-NCR will be significantly disrupted on Tuesday due to the influx of Kanwariyas during Sawan Shivratri, prompting diversions and lane restrictions across key routes. Authorities have advised commuters to plan journeys ahead, avoid travel during peak hours, and use alternate routes. Over 15,000 security personnel are deployed to manage the situation along eight designated Kanwar routes.