General news

In a significant crackdown, the National Investigation Agency has detained 13 suspects in Assam, West Bengal, and Kerala associated with the terrorist group Jamaat ul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). Following an extensive search operation, investigators confiscated several digital gadgets from the suspects. Earlier, Assam Police had made several arrests in connection with the probe, revealing efforts to radicalize youth and extend the group's reach within India.

In a significant move, two officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs have been apprehended on corruption charges linked to FCRA registrations. They are accused of demanding illicit payments to expedite pending applications. Following a credible tip-off, the Ministry confirmed their arrests. To enhance transparency, all FCRA registration processes have now been shifted to a digital platform, minimizing direct human involvement.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat highlighted four pillars of Dharma as essential for national progress at an event in Maharashtra. He called for the upliftment of society's most vulnerable sections, promoting Antyodaya for collective well-being. Bhagwat stressed that true development must focus on the well-being of all living beings and the environment. He rejected narrow definitions of economic growth in favor of holistic development.

Ministry of External Affairs criticised Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan for raising the Kashmir issue at the UN. The MEA emphasized that no external party has a right to comment on India's territorial integrity. Erdogan suggested dialogue to resolve disputes, including the Kashmir issue, within the United Nations framework. India has consistently maintained that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the nation.

A new class nine social science textbook by NCERT titled 'Understanding Society: India and Beyond-Part 2' delves into India's historical experience with warfare. It emphasizes the cultural worship of deities like Kali and Durga for protection during conflicts, documents invasions from the seventh century, and highlights the valor of Indian rulers against foreign aggressors. This resource aims to enhance analytical thinking and foster intercultural dialogue among secondary students.

West Bengal's Chief Minister, Suvendu Adhikari, unveiled the rebranded bicycle distribution initiative, now named Sarathi. This year, a remarkable 12.59 lakh students will receive bicycles. Adhikari criticized the previous administration’s bicycle quality and vowed to launch a manufacturing facility in Howrah. Inclusive scholarship opportunities will now extend to all students, while plans to revive NCC programs aim to bolster fitness and national security.

Students of Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Punjab’s Phagwara went on a rampage on Sunday, vandalising property and blocking NH-44 during protests over claims that an outsider raped a female student on the university campus. The protests later turned violent as students clashed with police, damaged and set fire to vehicles, and pelted stones at security personnel. Several policemen were injured.