India's monsoon rainfall ends 13% below normal, fourth-lowest since 2001

India recorded 87.4 percent of its long period average rainfall during this year's southwest monsoon. The country received 759.4 mm of rain, which is 13 percent below normal. El Niño significantly contributed to the below-average rainfall, especially noted in southern and western regions. Despite a late surge in rainfall, several areas faced substantial deficits, particularly Punjab and South India. The overall monsoon season ended as the driest since 2015.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's Rajya Sabha picks, including uncle Ram Gopal Yadav and Reliance executive Dhanraj Parimal Nathwani, are being seen as an early test for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls. The nominations raise questions over the SP's PDA strategy, its broader political outreach and a possible third Rajya Sabha candidate, despite the party's numbers falling short of the winning quota.

India’s women’s hockey team secured the Asian Games gold medal by defeating China 1-0 in the final. Abhijeet Dipke initiated a "Jail Bharo Andolan" in Mumbai over alleged electoral issues, calling for the election chief's resignation. A Flydubai mid-air incident was termed a 'terrorist act,' with praise for the Indian pilot's actions. Amarinder Singh Raja Warring resigned as Punjab Congress chief after years of leadership amid factional dissent.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a special interfaith prayer meeting to honor Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. He paid floral tributes at Gandhi Smriti and Rajghat earlier in the day. PM Modi emphasized Gandhi's ideals of truth, peace, and non-violence while urging people to adopt Swadeshi. Vice President CP Radhakrishnan also attended and remembered Gandhi's contributions to India's freedom movement.

On Gandhi Jayanti, Mamata Banerjee paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, underscoring his timeless principles for strengthening India. She emphasized that his messages of truth, simplicity, and service are essential for national advancement. Additionally, Abhishek Banerjee honored Gandhi’s unwavering dedication to truth, justice, and equality. Together, they urged for an inclusive nation where respect for citizens' rights and dignity is upheld, underpinned by the guiding principles of the Consti

India is pushing for increased exploration of offshore oil and gas resources in various basins. The government has initiated the Samudra Manthan scheme to support these exploration efforts financially and structurally. Key basins include Mahanadi, Andaman-Nicobar, Krishna-Godavari, and Cauvery, each with significant potential. Officials emphasize the importance of infrastructure to develop discoveries efficiently and cost-effectively.

At a recent conference, RSS leader Ramlal highlighted the growing importance of women farmers in Indian agriculture. With around 5,000 participants in Delhi advocating for reforms, topics like organic farming and fair pricing took center stage. Ramlal called for policy adjustments that prioritize women farmers’ contributions, emphasizing their role in shaping the future of agriculture and traditional farming methods.

Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has suggested his removal from the Punjab Congress chief post is imminent. Internal divisions have prompted calls for leadership change ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. Warring expressed satisfaction with his tenure, despite challenges and differences within the party. Several candidates are being considered to replace him in the upcoming announcement. The party high command will make the final decision on the new leadership.

Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has suggested his removal from the Punjab Congress chief post is imminent. Internal divisions have prompted calls for leadership change ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. Warring expressed satisfaction with his tenure, despite challenges and differences within the party. Several candidates are being considered to replace him in the upcoming announcement. The party high command will make the final decision on the new leadership.

Tamil Nadu chief minister C Joseph Vijay launched an expanded scheme to provide free bus travel. Marking the launch on Gandhi Jayanti, Vijay travelled by bus in Chennai and interacted with passengers. The scheme removed previous limitations on the types of bus services available for free travel. It aims to enhance economic empowerment and education opportunities without transportation costs hindering access.

On October 2, a remarkable event unfolded as several Indian startups managed to send payloads into orbit using the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. Among these, Dhruva Space showcased its LEAP-2 satellite, highlighting new in-orbit technologies. Additionally, TakeMe2Space launched the MOI-1A satellite capable of processing AI models in space, while EON Space Labs contributed with its MIRA optical telescope designed for high-resolution imaging.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has praised Seychelles for its rapid response in rescuing 17 Indian fishermen from the distressed fishing vessel IFB Sajira, which faced engine troubles amid turbulent waters. This incident underscores the enduring camaraderie between the two nations and their shared dedication to safeguarding citizens at sea. The swift rescue operation exemplifies international solidarity in critical situations.

Indian ambassador Deepak Mittal visited Captain Smit Machchhar at the hospital following the stabbing incident. Captain Machchhar was attacked by his co-pilot while flying from Dubai to Tel Aviv. After the initial treatment in Saudi Arabia, he was airlifted to Abu Dhabi for further medical care. Passengers and two other pilots helped to restrain the attacker and safely landed the flight.