Pakistan plans to increase defence budget by 18%: How it compares with India

Amidst escalating tensions following the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan plans to increase its defence budget by 18%. India, a major military power, spends significantly more but faces resource allocation challenges. With China's support for Pakistan and its own growing military strength, India confronts a two-front challenge. Recent actions include ceasefire violations, mock drills, and nuclear modernization, highlighting the complex security landscape.

A devastating fire in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar hotel claimed at least 21 lives, including foreign nationals from countries like Bangladesh and Nigeria. The External Affairs Minister expressed condolences and assured assistance to embassies. Investigations reveal the establishment may have operated with more rooms than permitted, raising serious questions about safety and emergency response.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticizes the Election Commission's voter list revision, fearing it could disenfranchise Muslims, women, migrants, and the poor, creating "excluded Indians." He alleges the exercise, which has already removed millions, is a precursor to identifying illegal immigrants. The Supreme Court, however, has upheld the EC's authority to ensure accurate electoral rolls.

​In a significant political message, the letter submitted to the assembly speaker referred to Mamata Banerjee as the party's chairperson, suggesting that the rebel camp is positioning its challenge against the current leadership of the legislature party rather than against the TMC chief herself. Sources aligned with the dissident group told news agency PTI that the legislators have also rejected any role for Abhishek Banerjee in determining the affairs of the legislature party.