Rescue teams are working tirelessly in Uttarakhand's Uttarkashi to evacuate stranded residents after devastating flash floods hit the Harsil-Dharali region. Hundreds have been rescued, and essential supplies are being delivered by helicopter. The Army has restored mobile connectivity and repaired damaged bridges, while search operations continue for the missing, with the SDRF employing advanced tools.
IAF chief Amar Preet Singh revealed Operation Sindoor inflicted significant damage on Pakistan, including the downing of six aircraft, among them five fighter jets and a high-value surveillance platform. The operation targeted command and control centers, radar systems, and aircraft hangars, effectively addressing the 'ghost of Balakot' by showcasing tangible achievements and losses inflicted on the adversary.
The BJP has criticized the Samajwadi Party (SP), labeling it a «communal party» after former SP MP ST Hasan linked the Uttarkashi flash floods to religious intolerance in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Hasan suggested a lack of respect for other religions contributed to the disaster, while the BJP condemned his remarks as insulting to Sanatan Dharma amidst a natural calamity.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey has filed a privilege case against four Jharkhand officials following an FIR against him and others, including MP Manoj Tiwari, for allegedly entering the Deoghar temple's sanctum sanctorum during a VIP entry ban. Dubey, a temple trustee, claims the complainants were improperly allowed inside.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has delisted 334 Registered Unrecognised Political Parties (RUPPs) to enhance electoral system transparency. This action follows a review of state CEO reports, revealing violations of registration norms. The delisted parties will lose benefits under RP Act and Income Tax Act, with an appeal window of 30 days.
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh revealed that the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully shot down five Pakistani jets and an AEW&C aircraft during Operation Sindoor. Speaking at a memorial lecture in Bengaluru, Singh's statement marks the first official confirmation of the extent of damage inflicted on Pakistani aircraft during the cross-border anti-terror operation.
Delhi was severely affected by incessant heavy rains, leading to widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions across key areas like Vasant Kunj and Connaught Place. The India Meteorological Department initially issued a red alert, which was later downgraded to yellow, forecasting continued thunderstorms until August 12. The city recorded significant rainfall, with Safdarjung reporting 78.7 mm.
India's defence production has reached a record high of Rs 1,50,590 crore in FY 2024-25, marking an 18% increase from the previous year, according to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. This represents a significant 90% surge since FY 2019-20. Singh attributed this growth to the collaborative efforts of the Department of Defence Production, DPSUs, public sector manufacturers, and the private industry.
The Congress party has intensified its criticism of the Modi government, citing US President Donald Trump's repeated assertions of having brokered peace between India and Pakistan after Operation Sindoor. Congress highlighted Trump's remarks about intervening to prevent a potential nuclear conflict between India-Pak, questioning «why Narendra Modi compromised the country's honour.»
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh revealed that the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully shot down five Pakistani fighter jets and an AEW&C aircraft during Operation Sindoor. Speaking at a memorial lecture in Bengaluru, Singh's statement marks the first official confirmation of the extent of damage inflicted on Pakistani aircraft during the cross-border anti-terror operation.
An ongoing encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district, under Operation Akhal, has resulted in the death of two soldiers, confirmed by the Army on Saturday. The operation, initiated on August 1, has also led to the killing of two unidentified terrorists.
The Ireland embassy in India has strongly condemned the violent attacks against Indian citizens, emphasizing that racism and xenophobia are unacceptable. Ireland's deputy prime minister will meet with Indian community representatives to address concerns.
Both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha faced disruptions due to opposition protests demanding a discussion on Bihar's special intensive revision of electoral rolls. The deputy chairman of Rajya Sabha rejected notices for suspending business, leading to uproar and adjournment. Despite the chaos in Lok Sabha, some questions were addressed, and the Income Tax Bill, 2025 was withdrawn for revision.
Niti Aayog's withdrawal of a paper advocating GM soybean and corn imports from the US reveals India's firm stance against transgenic food items due to biosafety concerns. Despite US trade negotiations and Niti Aayog's argument for imports, the government prioritizes domestic production and aligns with opposition from groups like Swadeshi Jagaran Manch.
India is urgently seeking to replace its aging Cheetah and Chetak helicopters, which are plagued by safety concerns and outdated technology. The Army has issued a request for information to acquire 120 reconnaissance and surveillance helicopters, while the IAF needs 80, aiming to modernize its fleet and enhance operational capabilities after decades of delays.
Piyush Goyal asserted India's resilience, stating it won't bow down to anyone and will capitalize on global trade restructuring. He expressed confidence in India's economic strength and ability to find opportunities amidst crises like potential Trump tariffs. Goyal highlighted India's growing global recognition and attractiveness as a market, dismissing concerns about its economic status.
The National Medical Register, a database for allopathic doctors, faces challenges. Launched in August 2024, it has seen low registration numbers. Out of 13.9 lakh doctors, only 996 have registered. Many applications are pending approval. The initiative aimed to strengthen digital healthcare. Registers for nurses and paramedics are also planned. However, progress is slow.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis criticised Rahul Gandhi's 'vote chori' allegations, dismissing them as a fictional script to mask his failures. Fadnavis highlighted the Election Commission's comprehensive revision efforts, accusing Gandhi of opposing them to conceal his shortcomings. The Election Commission refuted Gandhi's claims as baseless, drawing parallels to past allegations by Kamal Nath.
The Election Commission has declared the EPIC card presented by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav as «fake» and demanded its submission by August 16. This action follows Yadav's demand for accountability from the EC regarding the issuance of two EPIC numbers to him.
The Indian Army is gearing up to replace its aging Chetak and Cheetah helicopters with 200 modern light helicopters, as indicated by the defence ministry's recent request for information. This initiative aligns with India's Aatmnirbhar Bharat campaign, emphasising indigenous defence manufacturing through partnerships between Indian companies and original equipment manufacturers.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and others, including Manoj Tiwari, face charges for allegedly forcing their way into the Baba Baidyanath temple's sanctum sanctorum in Deoghar. A priest's complaint alleges the group's actions, violating restrictions during 'Shravan,' hurt religious sentiments and caused a disturbance. Dubey claims he's being targeted for performing 'puja' and intends to surrender.
Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday clarified that its primary site for E-Roll download for all states has been working without any issues.
The Supreme Court declined to hear a PIL seeking an independent safety audit of Air India following a fatal crash on June 12 involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The court questioned the petition's focus solely on Air India, suggesting the petitioner approach the DGCA or Union government with broader safety concerns applicable to all airlines.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi intensified his «vote theft» allegations at a Bengaluru rally, demanding the Election Commission (EC) provide the complete electronic voter list and video records. He claimed some state election websites were taken down after Congress's expose. Gandhi warned EC officials of consequences, accusing them of attacking the constitution.
Kiren Rijiju expressed concern about Rajya Sabha disruptions. He urged MPs to follow a 1997 resolution for smooth functioning. The Upper House lost 53 hours of work. Despite protests, the Rajya Sabha passed the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2025. The opposition protested the Bihar Special Intense Revision. The government rejected discussion demands, citing constitutional provisions and a sub judice matter.
The Supreme Court retracted two paragraphs from its August 4th order concerning Justice Prashant Kumar of the Allahabad High Court. This followed concerns raised by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai regarding remarks perceived as demeaning.
The Election Commission confronts Rahul Gandhi over electoral fraud claims. They demand he signs a declaration supporting his allegations. Alternatively, the commission wants an apology. Gandhi alleges vote manipulation in Karnataka. He accuses the EC of colluding with the BJP. The EC denies destroying evidence. They state Gandhi failed to respond to earlier requests for proof.