Union Home Minister Amit Shah urged the National Federation of State Co-operative Banks (NAFSCOB) to modernize and strengthen Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). He emphasized transparency, viability, and technology upgrades, advocating for increased youth involvement and a 50% rise in district cooperative banks. Shah stressed collective prosperity and equal profit sharing as core cooperative principles.
A Siberian Demoiselle crane, nicknamed Sukpak, has broken the record for the longest migratory flight to Rajasthan, India, covering over 3,676km. Tagged in the remote Tyva Republic of Russia, Sukpak's journey took an unusual route through Pakistan, reversing the typical migration path.
BJP criticized Rahul Gandhi for resuming his attacks on Veer Savarkar after remaining silent on the issue during the Maharashtra elections. They highlighted PM Modi's prediction that Gandhi's silence was tactical and would end post-elections.
Following a dismal performance in the recent polls, Uddhav Thackeray met with defeated Shiv Sena (UBT) candidates. He instructed them to apply to the Election Commission for verification of EVM-VVPAT units. Many candidates attributed their losses to EVMs and suggested a joint protest with MVA allies against their use, citing a Supreme Court order mandating verification upon candidate request.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stated India possesses a unique 'life force' capable of uniting the nation, especially during crises. This force, often obscured by historical influences, can be realized by integrating modern progress with ancient wisdom.
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, at a book launch, asserted that science and spirituality are complementary, both requiring faith. He emphasized introspection as a path to truth, highlighting India's unique 'praan shakti' (life force) as its national identity, evident in its response to global crises.
Maharashtra's political scene is witnessing a replay of 2019. Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena claims a pre-election «deal» with the BJP, mirroring Uddhav Thackeray's past assertions. Shinde's camp alleges an agreement promising him the Chief Ministership if their alliance won. However, the BJP's strong 132-seat win puts them in the driver's seat, with their parliamentary board holding the final decision.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is investigating three violent incidents in Manipur. These include the abduction and murder of six women and children, an attack on security forces that resulted in 10 militants being killed, and the rape and murder of a woman.
Congress plans Parliament demonstrations led by Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi to protest insufficient central aid for Wayanad landslide victims. Kalpetta MLA T Siddique criticized the Centre's response as «inhuman» after joint appeals with CM Vijayan to PM Modi. The landslide, impacting three villages, resulted in 231 deaths and 47 missing.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra won the Wayanad Lok Sabha bypoll with a significant margin, marking another Nehru-Gandhi family member's entry into Parliament. Her victory follows her brother Rahul Gandhi's win earlier this year and highlights her growing influence within the Congress party during its challenging times.
Following a resounding victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections, the BJP is taking a cautious approach to naming its chief ministerial candidate. While Devendra Fadnavis is considered the frontrunner, the decision is pending portfolio allocation and discussions with coalition partners Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's NCP. Eknath Shinde has resigned as CM but remains a contender, backed by Shiv Sena.
Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud refuted allegations by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, who blamed the court's handling of MLA disqualification petitions for the MVA's election defeat in Maharashtra polls. Chandrachud defended the Supreme Court's prioritization of key constitutional cases over politically driven agendas, citing limited resources and the need to address long-pending matters.
A man in Bengaluru allegedly stabbed his lover to death in a service apartment. He spent a day with her body before fleeing. Police are investigating the crime and searching for the accused, who was seen on CCTV entering the apartment with the victim.
India's External Affairs Ministry expressed serious concerns over the arrest of Hindu leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh following attacks on minorities and places of worship. The ministry condemned the denial of bail and urged Bangladesh to ensure the safety and security of minorities, including their rights to peaceful assembly and expression.
The Election Commission announced by-elections for six Rajya Sabha seats across four states. Polling is scheduled for December 20th, with vote counting on the same day. These by-elections follow recent assembly and Lok Sabha by-polls where BJP and allies performed strongly, while Congress secured both Lok Sabha seats. Nominations for the vacant Rajya Sabha seats close on December 10th.
The Supreme Court dismissed a plea to switch back to ballot paper voting. The petitioner cited concerns about EVM tampering. The court rejected the argument. The petitioner also suggested regulating money and liquor use in elections. They also wanted a voter education campaign. Congress raised similar concerns after recent election losses. The Election Commission found no evidence of procedural compromise.
Sadhguru condemned the arrest of an Iskcon priest in Bangladesh, highlighting the country's shift towards theocracy. India voiced concerns over the treatment of minorities following attacks and the priest's arrest for alleged disrespect to the national flag. Bangladesh authorities detained the priest, who was also facing charges related to a Hindu rally.
Devika Rotawan, a survivor of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, recounts the horrific night at CSMT when she was shot at age nine. Her testimony was crucial in convicting Ajmal Kasab. Sixteen years later, she lives with the physical and emotional scars, advocating for victims and an end to terrorism while awaiting promised housing.
President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 75th-anniversary celebrations of the Indian Constitution at the old Parliament building. She released a commemorative coin and stamp, unveiled Sanskrit and Maithili versions of the Constitution, and launched two books on its making. Emphasizing its progressive nature, she urged citizens to uphold constitutional ideals and contribute to a developed India by 2047.