Complete data could've raised average Diwali pollution level 49%

For the 2025-26 Swachh Survekshan Awards, Navi Mumbai has claimed the esteemed title of the cleanest city. Following closely are Surat and Vijayawada, securing the second and third positions, respectively. Additionally, Rewa from Madhya Pradesh has been honored as the cleanest riverfront town this year. Significant mentions include Rudrapur as the cleanest Himalayan city, along with various award categories highlighting different city populations.

The Supreme Court collegium is working to establish a systematic policy for transferring judges among high courts. Currently, transfers are largely subject to personal criteria, which the collegium aims to revise. This new policy emphasizes objective reasoning to streamline the transfer process, reduce personal biases, and enhance accountability regarding judges’ conduct and expertise, marking a pivotal evolution in judicial integrity management.

Iran revealed a large underground military facility that contains various ballistic and cruise missiles amidst ongoing tensions. Senior military officials warned of potential attacks on American forces if conflicts resume, highlighting Iran's preparedness. The facility has been described as a missile city, showcasing its advanced military capabilities. Significant political leaders emphasized the need for the US to recognize Iran's conditions to resolve conflicts.

Akhilesh Yadav has accused the BJP of creating divisions among the people of Uttar Pradesh. He claims that the political contest has shifted from an 80-20 to a 95-5 divide. Yadav has raised concerns regarding alleged irregularities in electoral rolls and suggests metal voter identity cards for transparency. He asserts that the previous SP government initiated key metro projects which have not expanded much under the BJP.

Sonia Gandhi's memoir unveils the intersections of her personal life and political career. Delving into episodes like the Shah Bano case and the Babri Masjid events, she offers poignant reflections on her husband Rajiv Gandhi's assassination and its aftermath. Furthermore, she candidly shares the hurdles faced during her Congress leadership amidst internal strife, creating a rich narrative about India's political evolution.

Kashmir's wedding chefs, known as waza, have unanimously decided to stop serving food after 10 pm. They have cited long working hours and poor treatment as reasons for this decision. Working conditions have become difficult due to extended delays from guests, particularly the groom's arrival. Chefs have reported insufficient arrangements for rest during long hours of work. The community advocates for more dignified working conditions and timely wedding practices.

In Karnataka, the Bharatiya Janata Party organized protests against soaring prices, particularly targeting the costs of milk and transportation. Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai underscored how increased taxes weigh heavily on everyday people. BS Yediyurappa echoed these concerns, criticizing the Congress government for its perceived disregard for citizens as essential item costs continue to soar. Protest leaders urged the government to retract these hikes to ease public suffering.

Akhilesh Yadav has renewed his criticism of the 2016 demonetisation, describing it as a major corruption scandal. He alleges that the currency ban has adversely affected banks and small traders, particularly MSMEs. Yadav challenges the government's banking reforms and blames demonetisation for increasing cash circulation. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath responds by accusing opposition parties of past corruption and recruitment irregularities.

Robert Vadra urged BJP leaders to delve into Sonia Gandhi's memoir, 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', and to do so with empathy. With pride, he spoke of his mother-in-law's inspiring journey, outlining her remarkable strength since relocating to India. Vadra also emphasized Gandhi's unwavering support during his interactions with the Enforcement Directorate, while defending her intentional decision to prioritize the nation over a prime ministerial role.

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari criticized TMC MP Kirti Azad for his recent comments regarding Lord Ram and Ayodhya. Bhandari accused opposition parties of engaging in vote bank politics while expressing disdain towards Hindu sentiments. Azad claimed he would not visit the Ram Mandir and questioned Lord Ram's treatment of Maa Sita. The controversy arises ahead of Akhilesh Yadav's proposed visit to the temple in December.

Sonia Gandhi shared her surprise at Pranab Mukherjee's ambition for the prime minister role in 2010. His daughter Sharmishtha questioned the surprise, expressing that such aspirations are valid in politics. India condemned an anti-India campaign by Chinese vloggers in Dhaka, urging the Bangladesh government to act against it. The country also expressed its continued bipartisan support for ties with the US after recent midterm elections.

India's vigorous vaccination campaigns have made remarkable strides in eliminating diseases such as smallpox and polio. Yet, disparities still exist in immunization coverage between various states and communities. Current initiatives aim to enhance accessibility and monitoring of vaccinations, especially addressing caregiver hesitancy and obstacles encountered by migrants. Raising awareness and consistent follow-up will be vital in boosting vaccination rates in the future.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge emphasized that clean air is a fundamental right and not a privilege. He highlighted rising air pollution in Delhi and criticized the government's piecemeal measures over the years. Kharge cited alarming statistics related to pollution-linked deaths and unspent environmental funds in the city. He also mentioned the Supreme Court's directive to states to address pollution concerns within two weeks.

HS Phoolka voices his concerns over Sonia Gandhi's memoir addressing the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and Operation Blue Star. He contests her claims about the Army's intervention timing post-Indira Gandhi's assassination, citing historical documentation. Furthermore, he questions her emotional depiction of Indira Gandhi after the operation, supported by Justice VM Tarkunde's report. Phoolka underscored that key military figures failed to arrive promptly, which could have averted the loss of life.

Former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi has recalled how Pranab Mukherjee hinted at his ambition to become prime minister during a 2010 conversation, leaving her "shocked". Her account in her memoir has drawn a sharp response from Mukherjee's daughter Sharmishtha, who questioned Sonia's reaction, saying there was nothing wrong with her father aspiring for the top post. Sonia also revisits her 2004 decision to decline the prime minister's post.

India’s capital, New Delhi, will attempt cloud seeding to induce rain and address severe pollution. The initiative involves Delhi International Airport Ltd, the Delhi government, and IIT Kanpur. A specialized aircraft from Kyathi Climate will undertake the operation on Tuesday and Wednesday. A fresh western disturbance is expected to bring rain to northwestern India later this week. Cloud seeding aims to enhance precipitation as the air quality deteriorates.

The Supreme Court has mandated that Delhi and three adjacent states intensify measures to combat vehicle emissions. Officials are tasked with reporting on the implementation of laws governing aging and non-compliant vehicles. With rising pollution levels in the National Capital Region, the court emphasized the need for inter-state collaboration on vehicle management and stricter adherence to emission standards. The matter will be reviewed again on November 23.

Sonia Gandhi’s memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love, offers an intimate account of Indira Gandhi’s temper, recalling how staff were made to stand in corners, a senior Congress leader ordered to face a wall and others ignored for days. Sonia also describes Rajiv’s reassurance during her mother-in-law’s outbursts, Indira’s domestic routines, love for sarees and photographs, and how grandchildren gradually softened her temperament.

Sonia Gandhi reveals her thoughts in her memoir about declining the prime minister role after the UPA's victory. She describes her inner voice guiding her decision and her conversation with Rahul. Gandhi highlights why she chose Manmohan Singh for the position, noting his integrity and governance experience. Her memoir also covers her personal journey, including significant tragedies and cultural adjustments after moving to India.