Netanyahu rebukes Macron over Gaza remarks at UNGA: ‘Grotesque absurdity’

French President Emmanuel Macron's comments criticizing Israel's actions in the West Bank provoked a fierce response from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who labeled the remarks "grotesque absurdity." Macron, addressing the UN, condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza while asserting that "Hamas has never struck in the West Bank." Tensions rise as Netanyahu plans a defiant address to the UN amid escalating violence.

India, China have ‘political, historical wisdom’ to handle differences: Envoy

Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong emphasized mutual respect and peaceful coexistence during China's National Day celebrations in Delhi, advocating a dual-track approach to bilateral relations and border issues. His comments followed President Xi Jinping's visit to India for the BRICS Summit, where both leaders underscored the need for resolving differences without disputes, vital for advancing ties between the ancient civilizations.

Roshibina, who almost didn’t make it, eyes India’s first wushu gold

Wushu athlete Roshibina Devi Naorem secured her place in the Asian Games after a controversial selection, stepping in for the injured Divyanshi Choudhary. Having already clinched bronze and silver medals, she defeated Indonesia's Thania Kusumaningtyas in the semifinals. Roshibina aims for gold, showcasing India's growing prowess in the sport since its 1990 debut.

West Bengal govt to roll out new industrial policy before Durga Puja: CM Adhikari

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the rollout of a new industrial policy before Durga Puja, aimed at attracting investments amid the state's "insolvent-like situation." The policy includes incentives for industries, streamlined clearances, and government land purchases. Adhikari criticized previous administrations for industrial decline and pledged a supportive environment for growth, with a budget of Rs 5,000 crore allocated for incentives.

ECI needs to course correct

An investigation by Indian Express reveals critical issues with the Election Commission of India's (ECI) operations: legal concerns over Form 6 modifications, technical limitations imposed on state officials, and procedural objections raised by two commissioners. The ECI’s credibility is threatened, raising urgent questions about electoral integrity and democracy, already strained by disenfranchisement and commissioner selection controversies.

BSP’s exit from the national legislature

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), once a powerful force under Kanshi Ram and Mayawati, has drastically declined, losing all parliamentary representation amid changing Dalit politics and aspirations. Its ineffectiveness, leadership instability, and competition from the BJP and Samajwadi Party have led to this decline. The BSP's journey reflects both its historic impact and tragic fate in empowering marginalized groups.

Madhya Pradesh to resume state govt bus services after 20 years on September 25

Madhya Pradesh will launch the Sugam Parivahan Seva public bus service on September 25, led by CM Mohan Yadav and Minister Nitin Gadkari, marking a return to bus services after 20 years. The initiative includes intercity and intracity buses equipped with GPS and panic buttons for safety, with a goal of expanding to 15,000 buses over five years.

Russia responds to Kyiv's remark: ‘Helping India weather Iran war energy shock’

Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that Russia would be compelled to end the war if its energy trade with India and China ceased. In response, Russia emphasized that its trade with India alleviates energy supply shocks amid global disruptions. Indian officials have indicated that energy needs must be prioritized, regardless of geopolitical tensions, as Russia remains a significant oil supplier.

5 gardens around the world that offer experiences beyond flowers and plants

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in South Africa epitomizes the integration of cultivated landscapes with natural biodiversity, set against Cape Town's Table Mountain. Globally, gardens like the Garden of Spiritual Wisdom in India and Dubai Miracle Garden showcase similar innovation, blending art and culture with nature. Gardens worldwide are redefined as immersive experiences beyond mere beauty, illustrating their evolving significance.

Iran Prez flashes Minab victims' photos during UNGA address, US envoy walks out

In a defiant address at the UNGA, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian responded to President Trump’s threats of annihilation, asserting Iran's readiness for diplomacy while rejecting the “language of force.” He highlighted Iran's victimization by terrorism, showcasing images of attacks on civilians, and criticized the U.S. for labeling Iran as terrorists despite the real aggressors being Israel and the U.S.

Nishadraj fort land should be protected, mosque issue resolved through law: Sanjay Nishad

Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Sanjay Nishad demanded legal protection for land around the Nishadraj Fort in Shringverpur Dham, while seeking resolution of a mosque dispute through democratic means. He emphasized addressing encroachments lawfully and warned of potential unrest among his supporters if action is not taken before the upcoming Nishadraj Mela in March, raising concerns over public safety. Nishad's remarks echo his commitment to the historical site's preservation.

Gurugram traffic police issue advisory ahead of MCG repair work at AIT Chowk

Gurugram traffic police announced a two-and-a-half-hour road restriction at AIT Chowk on Wednesday night for emergency repairs of a leaking water pipeline, affecting traffic towards Sector 54 metro station. Vehicles will be diverted via Wazirabad from 11 pm to 1:30 am. The late-night schedule aims to minimize disruption, with police personnel assisting motorists during the closure.

Meat recall: 167,639 pounds of products recalled over fake USDA mark

Star Meat Delivery Inc. is recalling approximately 167,639 pounds of raw meat products amid concerns they were produced without federal inspection, as announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s FSIS. This includes various meats like pork, beef, and goat, with a false USDA seal present. Despite no reported illnesses, FSIS warns of potential health risks. Consumers should discard the recalled items.

Delhi court grants default bail to 6 Ukrainians in Myanmar arms training case

A Delhi court granted default bail to six Ukrainians accused of training ethnic armed groups in Myanmar, following a similar decision for American Matthew Aaron VanDyke. The court found the charges against the Ukrainians under the Immigration and Foreigners Act insufficient. All seven, arrested in March, violated entry conditions amidst ongoing investigations into possible UAPA offences.

OM postponed: Dhanush avoids clash with Rajinikanth's Jailer 2

The release of the Tamil action-thriller "OM: Chapter 1 (Udhiram - The Blood Wood)," featuring Dhanush and Mammootty, has been postponed from October 16 to honor superstar Rajinikanth’s film debuting a day earlier. Directed by Rajkumar and inspired by real events, the cast members recently celebrated their National Awards wins, adding to the film's anticipation.

India head coach Gambhir appreciates Rohit and Virat: ‘Gill is very fortunate’

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar is set to end his tenure early next month, reportedly dissatisfied with the BCCI’s decision to retain Rohit Sharma. India head coach Gautam Gambhir’s recent comments solidify support for both Rohit and Virat Kohli, likely extending until the 2027 World Cup. With a three-ODI series against West Indies starting Sunday, Gambhir endorses their experience as crucial for the team's success.

FSSAI cracks down on five e-commerce platforms; Amazon, Swiggy under scanner

The FSSAI has initiated penal action against five e-commerce platforms, including Amazon and Swiggy Instamart, over various food safety violations, such as misleading claims and prohibited product sales. This crackdown follows a six-month period of intensified regulatory enforcement, targeting misleading dairy product information from Milky Mist and the sale of Happilo snacks. The actions align with FSSAI's mandate under the FSS Act, 2006.

India schedule at Asian Games 2026 Day 6: Roshibina eyes gold, Hockey in focus

India's Asian Games campaign intensifies on September 24, featuring key events including Roshibina Devi's gold medal match in wushu against China, numerous rowing finals, and Pranati Nayak in the women's vault final. The day also highlights athletics, men's hockey against South Korea, and kabaddi matches, showcasing India's diverse sporting efforts. Events begin at 5:10 AM IST.

Body of teenage girl recovered from Kasganj tube well

The body of an 18-year-old girl was discovered in a closed tube well in Kasganj district, raising suspicions of a homicide. Authorities believe she was killed elsewhere, as indicated by a neck injury. A police investigation is underway, with evidence collected from the scene, including a headphone. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination.

Two commissioners, one CEC, no veto: How the Election Commission decides

Election commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi raised formal objections 14 times in 10 months over the electoral roll's Special Intensive Revision, prompting the Election Commission to assert that these disagreements are normal. This issue highlights concerns around power dynamics within the commission, established by constitutional provisions. The Supreme Court ruled on these matters, affirming the commission's autonomy in decision-making.

Meerut lawyers strike work over HC bench demand

Lawyers in Meerut initiated a strike demanding the establishment of a high court bench in western Uttar Pradesh, engaging in protests and boycotting court proceedings. Supported by advocates from 22 districts, the strike reflects discontent with local BJP representatives for insufficient actions. Plans for further meetings to strategize the agitation were announced, amid rising dissent among politically divided lawyers.

Bengaluru entrepreneur bans male hires from 4 North Indian states, sparks debate

A Bengaluru entrepreneur, Karthik SG of A1 Sports World, announced a controversial hiring policy, banning male candidates from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh after a former employee's alleged abusive behavior. His decision sparked mixed social media reactions, with critics labeling it as regional discrimination, while Karthik emphasized the priority of workplace safety over business operations.

Two tuskers stray from herd, injure two Kheri farmers

Two wild elephants injured farmers near Bhairampur village in the Dudhwa buffer zone on Tuesday night. Ram Kumar Chauhan, 40, sustained fractures and was transferred to a district hospital, while Ladi Chauhan, 30, had minor injuries and was treated at the Nighasan Community Health Centre. A herd from Nepal has been active in the area.

TN crime branch raids R Veeramani’s properties in connection with Pocso case

The Tamil Nadu central crime branch raided properties linked to industrialist R. Veeramani, chairman of Gem Group, arrested in a Pocso case. The raids followed the arrest of former employee Ganeshan, with several people detained. A video surfaced where aide Shanthi claimed threats from Veeramani. Calls for a Special Investigation Team have arisen amid concerns of corruption. The case highlights allegations against Veeramani dating back years.

Is the three-format cricketer dying? Gambhir's warning meets India's numbers

Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, anticipates that all-format cricketers will become scarce due to increasing rotation and format-specific demands. A Three-Format Dependency Index (TDI) measures a player’s significance across formats, revealing that while players like Rishabh Pant still emerge as all-format contributors, the core role of three-format stars is diminishing as teams embrace specialized ecosystems for players.

‘Iran will never bend the knee’: Pezeshkian warns Trump at UNGA

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, speaking at the UN General Assembly, emphasized that Iran has been a “victim of terrorism,” asserting the need for strength to deter threats, particularly from the US and Israel. He defended Iran's actions as self-defense and vowed to protect the Strait of Hormuz from aggression, while declaring Iran's defense capabilities are not for hegemony.

El Nino, strongest on record, could cause 451,000 extra heat deaths: Report

This year's powerful El Nino is projected to cause 451,000 additional heat-related deaths globally through February, significantly impacting developing countries. The Climate Impact Lab estimates severe tolls in regions like Africa, Indonesia, and India, as land temperatures rise sharply due to El Nino. Preventive actions are essential to mitigate this health crisis, according to researchers.

Dolph Lundgren cancer scare: How a misdiagnosis changed everything

Dolph Lundgren, in his memoir *Fights Worth Fighting: Finding Strength in Struggle*, reveals he considered medical aid in dying during his near-decade battle with cancer, which began in 2015. Initially misdiagnosed with kidney cancer, timely intervention revealed lung cancer, leading to successful treatment. Lundgren's journey underscores resilience in the face of health challenges and the importance of accurate diagnosis.

Kamal Haasan calls for ‘justice without mercy’ in R Veeramani POCSO case

In a troubling development in the R Veeramani POCSO case, the Central Crime Branch arrested a former employee for withholding evidence, following Veeramani's arrest along with associates for alleged abuse. Calls for justice from public figures, including Khushbu Sundar and Kamal Haasan, highlight concerns over potential cover-ups by influential individuals tied to the case, demanding a thorough investigation.

Pitru Paksha 2026: 10 lesser-known rules you should know

Pitru Paksha, observed from September 27 to October 10, emphasizes honoring ancestors through rituals like Shraddha and Tarpan, which follow specific tithis. Traditions include avoiding new beginnings and emphasizing gratitude. The observance aims not just at rituals but at fostering a deep connection to family roots and ancestral memory. Understanding these practices enriches their significance.