BJP will return to power in Uttar Pradesh, bring in Uniform Civil Code: Amit Shah

Amit Shah pledged that, if re-elected in Uttar Pradesh in 2027, the BJP would implement the Uniform Civil Code, predicting a third term and dismissing Akhilesh Yadav and Rahul Gandhi’s chances. In Lucknow, he urged workers to unite and praised Yogi Adityanath. UCC standardizes personal laws; Uttarakhand passed a state law in 2024.

Sena (UBT) members stopped before protest on Samruddhi Expressway over drought relief

Shiv Sena MLA Nitin Deshmukh and others were detained in Washim while marching toward Samruddhi Expressway to protest inadequate drought relief, demanding Rs 1 lakh per hectare, faster crop-insurance payments and better farm prices. Police barred protest and deployed 1,500 personnel. Maharashtra declared drought-like conditions in 305 talukas and approved Rs 5,000 advances for farmers.

Helicopter lost communication, tracking over Joshimath valley, moments before crash

A helicopter carrying pilot Captain Himanshu and five passengers crashed Friday in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district while returning from Badrinath to Dehradun in adverse weather, with search-and-rescue operations underway for all six aboard. It lost communication over Joshimath valley before its tracking system failed, prompting Army and SDRF teams to deploy; authorities grounded the operator’s fleet.

Why diet and exercise need to work together for sustainable weight loss

Sustainable weight management depends on combining a healthy diet with regular exercise; workouts alone rarely offset overeating, while calorie restriction without resistance training can cost muscle and lower metabolism. Dr Neha Shah recommends strength training two or three times weekly, adequate protein and a calorie deficit, while noting that sleep, stress and gut health matter.

Chakra Horoscope Today, October 30, 2026

Today’s horoscope centers on balance, patience, and clarity over resentment, distraction, or appearances. Aries is urged to forgive; Taurus and Virgo to value progress; Gemini and Cancer to release guilt and trust their values. Other signs should refocus, rest, embrace change, communicate honestly, stay curious, celebrate completion, and verify trust; suggested rituals offer support today.

If re-elected, BJP will implement Uniform Civil Code in UP: Amit Shah

Union home minister Amit Shah said the BJP would implement a Uniform Civil Code in Uttar Pradesh if re-elected, warning the Samajwadi Party faces 30 years out of power. His pledge comes amid renewed nationwide BJP calls for common civil laws, as leaders in Assam, West Bengal, Uttarakhand and Gujarat back measures spanning marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption.

Iran's secret network of 5,000 agencies helped import $2 billion in military supplies: Report

Reuters says Iran used more than 5,000 secret, ministry-linked agencies to procure $2 billion in goods since January 2025, sustaining missile and drone programs despite US sanctions and a naval blockade. Drawing on financial and shipping records, the investigation describes foreign shell companies and oil-funded purchases, often settled without currency transfers; imports included explosives and heavy vehicles.

A Keto coach shares how to choose the right paneer, chicken or tofu dish at restaurants

Planning ahead helps keto followers navigate festive meals, says coach Rahul Kamra: choose protein such as paneer or chicken tikka, add salad and non-starchy vegetables, and check batters, gravies and preparation. Limit carb-heavy snacks, eat before parties rather than grazing, choose fats carefully and carry water. Results depend on personal goals and consistency; seek medical advice for health concerns.

Paris Hilton addresses backlash over family’s Beauty and the Beast Halloween 2026 costumes

Paris Hilton said daughter London chose Chip from *Beauty and the Beast* herself, rebutting criticism that Hilton made herself the Halloween star by dressing as Belle. Hilton explained the film is among her children’s favourites and London requested the teacup role. Husband Carter Reum dressed as the Beast, while son Phoenix portrayed Lumière for Halloween.

HistoriCity: When a Portuguese woman in the Mughal court owned land in Jamia Nagar, Sarai Jullena

Portuguese-born Dona Juliana Dias da Costa rose to influence at the fading Mughal court, helping Bahadur Shah I survive a succession struggle and earning lands around today’s Jamia Nagar, where Sarai Jullena preserves her name. European visitors praised her devotion and sway, though conversion stories remain unverified; her legacy faded, but Christian institutions preserve traces.

From Paris to Dakar, Dhinidhi takes the road less travelled to the Youth Olympics

After an unexpectedly early Paris Olympic debut, Dhinidhi Desinghu heads to Dakar’s Youth Olympics seeking performance over exposure, with greater expectations. Since Paris, the 16-year-old has set national records in the 100m, 200m and 400m freestyle, becoming India’s fastest 200m swimmer. Her coach urges patience, while she hopes to raise ambitions for Indian swimming.

Eetha trailer out: Shraddha Kapoor transforms into Vithabai Narayangaonkar in drama-filled musical

Shraddha Kapoor steps into Lavani as celebrated performer Eetha Bai in the newly unveiled trailer for Laxman Utekar’s musical drama Eetha, inspired by Maharashtrian artist Vithabai Bhau Mang Narayangaonkar. The film follows her struggles and triumphs while celebrating Lavani, Tamasha and the women who sustained these traditions. Produced by Dinesh Vijan, Eetha releases in cinemas on December 4, 2026.

Ensure immediate relief to affected people, assess damage to crops: Adityanath to officials

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered relief and compensation for people hit by heavy rain, damage assessments for homes, crops and livestock, and shelter for displaced families, warning negligence would not be tolerated. Bijnor recorded the highest rainfall, 9.9 cm, with western districts hardest hit. The downpours came as Cyclone Arnab weakened and storms were forecast.

Aaryavir Sehwag, Anvay Dravid headline India's squad for U19 Asia Cup

India have named a 15-player U19 Asia Cup squad for Oman, led by Lakshya Raichandani and featuring Aaryavir Sehwag and Anvay Dravid. They face Nepal on November 6, Pakistan on November 8 and UAE on November 10, with the tournament running November 5–14. Both youngsters have recently impressed against Australia and in domestic one-day cricket.

Suriya's police officer role in Scene is different from Singam, says Jithu Madhavan

Director Jithu Madhavan says Suriya’s Inbaraaj in *Scene* differs from his police officers in *Singam* and *Kaakha Kaakha*, approaching investigations in a way shaped by different challenges. He praised Suriya’s involvement, flexibility through script changes and memorisation of dialogue. The teaser hints at a case; Nazriya Nazim and Naslen co-star. *Scene* opens November 6.

NCT’s Ten responds to dating speculation: ‘I’m super duper single’

K-pop star Ten denied dating rumours during his Seattle concert Thursday, telling fans he is “super duper single” and not seeing anyone, despite online speculation linking him to a non-celebrity woman. The NCT and WayV member joked his packed schedule made dating impossible; he left SM in April and co-founded creative company ILLIMNT in July.

AI-designed viruses used to treat human patient for first time, US startup says

Radical Numerics says a patient with an antibiotic-resistant infection received AI-designed viruses in what it calls a world-first treatment, after phages killed bacteria isolated from the patient in laboratory tests. The startup has not disclosed the outcome, and claims lack peer-reviewed verification. Given through compassionate use, the therapy builds on phage research, amid hopes and biosafety concerns.

US hikes EB-5 Green Card fees from November 30: New charges and key changes explained

USCIS will raise EB-5 filing fees and revise procedures from November 30, 2026, with nine covered forms facing a 70.7% average increase—about $2,946 per application. Individual investor Form I-526 rises to $7,615, while regional-center I-526E costs $7,850 and I-829 $5,000. Regional-center fees also increase; the program offers residency through qualifying investments and job creation.

Writers, filmmakers discuss creative forms as means of protest at Sikkim Art and Literature Festival

At Sikkim’s Arts and Literature Festival, JNU scholar Bishnupriya Dutt argued that creative protest can avert violence, contrasting student movements in Delhi with unrest in Paris and highlighting street theatre’s power to drive political change. Speakers also explored Bengali theatre’s protest history and criticized inadequate support for veteran Jatra performer Chopol Bhaduri. The event features writers, discussions, poetry and music.

NCTE sets up two panels to amend teacher recruitment norms, make ITEP graduates eligible

NCTE formed two committees to amend teacher recruitment rules and CTET/STET eligibility, potentially making four-year ITEP graduates eligible for school-teaching jobs; its first cohort graduates in 2027. One panel will revise 2014 regulations, while the other updates test guidelines. Under NEP 2020, ITEP replaces the bachelor’s-plus-B.Ed route and aligns preparation with the 5+3+3+4 school structure.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu shares how she works out in ‘final lap’ of pregnancy

Samantha Ruth Prabhu drew praise after sharing a Reel showing squats in her first and ninth months of pregnancy, maintaining her workout ahead of childbirth. Fans called her inspiring and a supermom. An obstetrician says exercise is recommended for most pregnant women but advises medical guidance and avoiding risky movements; the report notes its social-media claims are unverified.

Doctor explains respiratory risks of festive smoke and winter pollution on vulnerable groups

Festive-season pollution from firecrackers and winter can worsen breathing and trigger asthma attacks, especially among children, older adults and people with heart or lung disease, warns Dr Mrinal Sircar. Vulnerable people should stay indoors during pollution peaks, use N95 masks outdoors, follow treatment and seek care for severe symptoms. Inversions trap pollutants at ground level.

Landmark Group plans ₹15,000-crore NCR expansion, eyes branded residences on Dwarka Expressway

Landmark Group unveiled a ₹15,000-crore NCR expansion: a ₹4,000-crore Grade A+ Gurugram office project and a proposed ₹11,000-crore luxury destination on Dwarka Expressway. The latter may combine a five-star hotel, branded serviced apartments, retail and offices, marking the group’s entry into branded residences. Landmark One is under construction; the Dwarka project remains in planning.

Helicopter returning from Badrinath crashes near Joshimath amid bad weather

A helicopter en route from Badrinath to Dehradun has reportedly gone missing with six people aboard, including five passengers and a pilot, prompting the district administration to deploy another helicopter for an aerial search, news agency ANI reported. Authorities continue searching, with further details and updates on the occupants’ condition awaited as the story develops.

Two schools across Delhi receive bomb threats; nothing suspicious, say police

Bomb-threat emails sent Friday morning to two Delhi schools prompted evacuations and anti-sabotage searches, but authorities found nothing suspicious and all students were safe. Sardar Patel Vidyalaya in Lodhi Estate and Raghubir Singh Junior Modern School on Barakhamba Road received messages around 10 a.m.; police deployed bomb and dog squads, while the sender remains unidentified.

Physical intimacy cannot be branded as rape after consensual relationship sours: SC

India’s Supreme Court ruled consensual intimacy during a relationship cannot later be called rape because it ended, discharging a Kerala man accused of rape and cheating. The justices distinguished deliberate fraud invalidating consent from retrospective regret, warning that criminalizing failed relationships could dilute rape’s gravity. The woman alleged he concealed a marriage and cohabited with her.

TN Minister acknowledges ‘procedural lapses’ in Theni sub-jail escape; CCTV, scanners planned

Tamil Nadu Minister R Nirmal Kumar acknowledged procedural lapses behind 17 inmates’ escape from Thekkampatti sub-jail and said security would be strengthened with CCTV, scanners, automated locks and more staff. Nine officials were suspended, and prison-service leadership changed. The prisoners escaped after faking an emergency but were recaptured; staff shortages and delayed alerts exposed weaknesses.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s mother Kashi Bai passes away at AIIMS Bhopal; last rites to be held in Jait

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s mother, Kashi Bai, died Friday while receiving treatment at AIIMS Bhopal, drawing condolences from Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and leaders across party lines. Chouhan said her passing had left an irreplaceable void; her last rites were scheduled for 3 pm in Jait, her native village in Sehore district.

Modi attacks opponents, says govt didn’t let burden of fertiliser prices fall on farmers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused opponents of spreading rumours about fertiliser and cooking-gas shortages amid West Asia tensions, saying his government shielded farmers from rising fertiliser prices as he released the 24th PM-KISAN instalment and launched projects worth over ₹14,000 crore in Gujarat. He cited subsidies; the visit also marked 25 years in public life.

A richer measure of poverty: Why income alone is misleading

India’s poverty is deeper than income figures suggest: 5% live below $3 a day, but 16.4% are multidimensionally poor, facing deficits in nutrition, housing, sanitation and cooking fuel. The MPI indicates growth does not reliably reduce deprivation; investment in health, education and public services can, with the poorest states making gains, though progress remains uneven.