Monsoon session: NDA in command, opposition in disarray. Will DMK tilt the balance?

The opposition parties are grappling with significant turmoil following vital splits that have diminished their strength in Parliament. Recent shifts have bolstered the ruling NDA coalition's standing. As the Monsoon session approaches, the potential reintroduction of a Constitution Amendment Bill looms. Internal fractures within several regional parties could further compromise the opposition's capacity to impede crucial legislation.

Regulated entities and government communications from 1600 numbers cannot be blocked by any application. Promotional calls from the 140 series can be blocked using the DND registry. Trai mandates 1600 numbers for trustworthy service and transaction calls to existing customers. Registered telemarketers use the 140 number series for promotional communications. Customers can register preferences on the DND registry to allow or block these promotional calls.

Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister acknowledged rising tourist arrivals and suggested regulation.He emphasized protecting natural assets and ensuring visitor experiences remain serene.The Chief Minister advocated for value-based tourism over a volume-based approach.He stressed the importance of implementing tourism master plans with community input.This approach aims for sustainable economic and environmental benefits for future generations.

Farooq Abdullah invited politicians for a protest demanding Jammu and Kashmir statehood restoration. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq suggested broadening the protest's agenda for political resolution. The BJP rejected the invitation, criticizing the National Conference's past actions. The National Conference is still awaiting permission for the planned protest. Political reactions highlight divisions over the region's future.

The road transport ministry has expanded online services to one hundred from fifty-eight.These new services include driving licence applications and vehicle registration updates.Owners can now apply for driving licences and update their vehicle registration details online.This expansion aims to bring more services under the faceless scheme for citizens.Alternative document submission is available for those not opting for Aadhaar authentication.

Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has come to the defense of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway project, while also taking aim at critics with disdainful comments. In the assembly, he referred to Raj Thackeray as nothing more than a mimicry artist, cautioning that spreading misinformation tarnishes the reputation of Maharashtra as a whole. His remarks have sparked backlash from opposition leaders, who are quick to challenge his statements.

Assa Doron is a professor of Anthropology and South Asia at Australian National University.He is the author and co-author of several books, including ‘Life on the Ganga’, ‘The Great Indian Phone Book’, and ‘Waste of a Nation’. Alex Broom is academic director at Australian Research Council, professor of Sociology, and director of the Sydney Centre for Healthy Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Sydney. He is the author of several books

Recent reports highlight heightened concerns over the Yarlung Tsangpo mega dam in China, amidst fears of geological faults and potential earthquakes. Meanwhile, in Assam, the government is taking a firm stance against polygamy by planning to terminate the employment of offenders and restrict access to welfare benefits. Additionally, the UK has recognized significant technology companies as essential third parties for cloud services.

In a heartfelt gesture, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay visited families affected by the Karur stampede disaster. He distributed job appointment orders to eligible dependants as part of rehabilitation efforts, visibly moved by their immense sorrow. This visit coincided with the High Court's evaluation of the government's permanent job appointment policies. Furthermore, Vijay criticized the opposition DMK for allegedly exploiting the tragedy for political gain.

India's UDAN scheme aims to make flying affordable for all citizens. The initial phase connected many smaller cities but faced sustainability challenges. A modified UDAN scheme now focuses on airport development and broader ecosystem support. This new phase includes increased financial aid and indigenous aircraft integration. The government hopes this will create a self-sustaining regional aviation network.

A Kerala medical student was murdered in Uzbekistan by a fellow student. The victim allegedly faced repeated demands to convert her religion before her death. Uzbek authorities have arrested the accused student in connection with the ongoing investigation. Indian authorities are assisting the victim's family and liaising with Uzbek officials. A second post-mortem was conducted in Kerala after the body's repatriation.