National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

The Left Unity alliance, consisting of the All India Students' Association (AISA), Students' Federation of India (SFI), and Democratic Students' Front (DSF), swept the 2025 Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) elections, securing all key positions. Aditi Mishra from AISA was elected President, while K Gopika from SFI became Vice President. Sunil Yadav from DSF won the General Secretary role, and Danish Ali from AISA claimed the Joint Secretary position. Newly elected General Secretary, Sunil Yadav, termed it a victory for progressive politics. He said that since the Centre implemented the New Education Policy, 2020, public universities are being pushed towards privatisation." He told ANI, "This is a victory of the students of the campus, a victory for the progressive politics of JNU, which has repeatedly rejected ABVP, BJP, RSS. Ever since the central government introduced the new education policy, public universities have been pushed towards privatisation." Aditi Mishra bagged a total of 1937 votes, beating the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarathi Parishad (ABVP) candidate Vikas Patel, who secured 1488 votes. K Gopika bagged the post of the Vice President by winning 3101 votes. Danish Ali won 2083 votes, beating Chhatra RJD candidate Ravi Raj. Sunil Yadav won 2005 votes against ABVP candidate Rajeshwar Kant Dubey's 1901 votes. Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation congratulated the winning candidates for overcoming the "ABVP challenge." "Victory! Congratulations to Comrades Aditi-Gopika-Sunil-Danish! The United Left panel has swept the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (#JNUSU) polls, overcoming stiff ABVP challenge. We wish more power to AISA and other progressive student organisations in the battle for student welfare against the combined offensive of privatisation and fascist aggression," the CPI(ML) wrote on X. This was a key result for the United Left after ABVP secured a decisive victory in the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) Election 2025, winning three posts of President, Secretary, and Joint Secretary, while the Congress-backed National Students' Union of India (NSUI) won the post of Vice President.&nbsp;

The Left Unity alliance, consisting of the All India Students' Association (AISA), Students' Federation of India (SFI), and Democratic Students' Front (DSF), swept the 2025 Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) elections, securing all key positions

The Left Unity alliance, consisting of the All India Students' Association (AISA), Students' Federation of India (SFI), and Democratic Students' Front (DSF), swept the 2025 Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) elections, securing all key positions. Aditi Mishra from AISA was elected President, while K Gopika from SFI became Vice President. Sunil Yadav from DSF won the General Secretary role, and Danish Ali from AISA claimed the Joint Secretary position. Newly elected General Secretary, Sunil Yadav, termed it a victory for progressive politics. He said that since the Centre implemented the New Education Policy, 2020, public universities are being pushed towards privatisation." He told ANI, "This is a victory of the students of the campus, a victory for the progressive politics of JNU, which has repeatedly rejected ABVP, BJP, RSS. Ever since the central government introduced the new education policy, public universities have been pushed towards privatisation." Aditi Mishra bagged a total of 1937 votes, beating the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarathi Parishad (ABVP) candidate Vikas Patel, who secured 1488 votes. K Gopika bagged the post of the Vice President by winning 3101 votes. Danish Ali won 2083 votes, beating Chhatra RJD candidate Ravi Raj. Sunil Yadav won 2005 votes against ABVP candidate Rajeshwar Kant Dubey's 1901 votes. Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation congratulated the winning candidates for overcoming the "ABVP challenge." "Victory! Congratulations to Comrades Aditi-Gopika-Sunil-Danish! The United Left panel has swept the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (#JNUSU) polls, overcoming stiff ABVP challenge. We wish more power to AISA and other progressive student organisations in the battle for student welfare against the combined offensive of privatisation and fascist aggression," the CPI(ML) wrote on X. This was a key result for the United Left after ABVP secured a decisive victory in the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) Election 2025, winning three posts of President, Secretary, and Joint Secretary, while the Congress-backed National Students' Union of India (NSUI) won the post of Vice President.

The Left Unity alliance, consisting of the All India Students' Association (AISA), Students' Federation of India (SFI), and Democratic Students' Front (DSF), swept the 2025 Jawaharlal Nehru University Students' Union (JNUSU) elections, securing all key positions

Left Unity sweeps JNU Students’ Union polls, defeats RSS-backed ABVP

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in India has accused the main opposition party Congress and the former prime minister of the country Jawahar Lal Nehru of altering the lyrics of the national song, 'Vande Mataram'. BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan on Friday said the ex-Prime Minister specifically removed references to the goddess Durga to appease one community.Kesavan alleged that the Congress, under Nehru's in 1937 adopted only a shorter version of the national song deliberately.&nbsp;"It is imperative for the younger generation to know how the Congress, pandering to its communal agenda, adopted a shortened Vande Mataram at its Faizpur session. The glorious Vande Mataram became the voice of our nation’s unity and solidarity, celebrating our motherland, instilling nationalistic spirit and fostering patriotism," wrote Kesavan on X.&nbsp;"But the Congress committed the historic sin and blunder of linking the song with religion. Congress under Nehru citing religious grounds deliberately removed stanzas of Vande Mataram which hailed Goddess Ma Durga," Kesavan added.&nbsp;Citing a letter written to Subhash Chandra Bose, the BJP leader said that Nehru reportedly said the background of Vande Mataram was "likely to irritate Muslims".&nbsp;Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in a mass recital of the full version of Vande Mataram across the nation on the 150th anniversary of its creation, confirmed Kesavan.&nbsp;Earlier today the PM also took to X to talk about how the 'Vande Mataram' song was truncated"In 1937, a portion of 'Vande Mataram' was severed... it was torn apart. The division sowed the seeds of the nation's division. It is important for today's generation to understand why... Divisive thinking remains a challenge today," Modi wrote on X.<h2>Congress Reacts</h2>&nbsp;Responding to the allegations, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said "It is deeply ironic that those who today claim to be the self-proclaimed guardians of nationalism - the RSS and the BJP, have never sung Vande Mataram or our National Anthem Jana Gana Mana in their shakhas or offices. Instead, they continue to sing Namaste Sada Vatsale, a song glorifying their organisations, not the nation."&nbsp;

Kesavan alleged that the Congress, under Nehrus in 1937 adopted only a shorter version of the national song deliberately to appease one community.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in India has accused the main opposition party Congress and the former prime minister of the country Jawahar Lal Nehru of altering the lyrics of the national song, 'Vande Mataram'. BJP spokesperson CR Kesavan on Friday said the ex-Prime Minister specifically removed references to the goddess Durga to appease one community. Kesavan alleged that the Congress, under Nehru's in 1937 adopted only a shorter version of the national song deliberately. "It is imperative for the younger generation to know how the Congress, pandering to its communal agenda, adopted a shortened Vande Mataram at its Faizpur session. The glorious Vande Mataram became the voice of our nation’s unity and solidarity, celebrating our motherland, instilling nationalistic spirit and fostering patriotism," wrote Kesavan on X. "But the Congress committed the historic sin and blunder of linking the song with religion. Congress under Nehru citing religious grounds deliberately removed stanzas of Vande Mataram which hailed Goddess Ma Durga," Kesavan added. Citing a letter written to Subhash Chandra Bose, the BJP leader said that Nehru reportedly said the background of Vande Mataram was "likely to irritate Muslims". Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in a mass recital of the full version of Vande Mataram across the nation on the 150th anniversary of its creation, confirmed Kesavan. Earlier today the PM also took to X to talk about how the 'Vande Mataram' song was truncated "In 1937, a portion of 'Vande Mataram' was severed... it was torn apart. The division sowed the seeds of the nation's division. It is important for today's generation to understand why... Divisive thinking remains a challenge today," Modi wrote on X. Congress Reacts Responding to the allegations, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said "It is deeply ironic that those who today claim to be the self-proclaimed guardians of nationalism - the RSS and the BJP, have never sung Vande Mataram or our National Anthem Jana Gana Mana in their shakhas or offices. Instead, they continue to sing Namaste Sada Vatsale, a song glorifying their organisations, not the nation."

Kesavan alleged that the Congress, under Nehru's in 1937 adopted only a shorter version of the national song deliberately to appease one community.

Nehru deliberately removed Ma Durga stanzas from Vande Mataram on religious grounds, claims BJP

The residents of national capital and the neighbouring NCR region witnessed another smoke-filled day on Friday (Nov 7) as Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the 'very poor' category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 312. The lowest AQI &nbsp;was recorded at Anand Vihar area of Delhi at 332, while several other monitoring stations across the city recorded 'very poor' levels. The air quality recorded a steep decline in the 24 hours from relatively better on Thursday (Nov 6) morning at 202.&nbsp;As per CPCB classification, an AQI between the range 0-50 falls under 'Good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 is considered 'severe'.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-bans-these-commercial-goods-vehicles-from-nov-1-check-details-here-1761984904508">Delhi bans THESE vehicles from Nov 1. Check details here</a>&nbsp;The period marks one of the most polluted phases of the winter season in Delhi and across metropolitan areas of the country. This year, the Supreme Court (SC) permitted the sale and use of green firecrackers and cited it as a "test case" to find a balance between festivities and environmental protection. However, the air quality sharply fell after Diwali in what critics are calling a “failed case” by the SC. Officials, meanwhile, attributed the latest decline in air quality to a western disturbance, which caused stagnant weather conditions and trapped pollutants, along with the bursting of firecrackers during Gurpurab celebrations. Mumbai, which has relatively better air quality, also experienced a thick layer of smog across parts of the city as the air quality spiked over 200 in the 'poor' category.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/flight-delays-at-delhi-airport-due-to-massive-glitch-airlines-issue-advisories-what-we-know-1762487309608">At least 100 flights delayed at Delhi Airport due to massive glitch, airlines issue advisories – What we know</a><h3>PIL seeks air pollution be declared a national health emergency</h3>Wellness expert Luke Christopher Coutinho filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court seeking to declare air pollution as a national public health emergency. The plea cites annual air quality data from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru that surpass the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (2009). The PIL argues violation of citizens' fundamental right to life and health under Article 21 and names the Central government, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), NITI Aayog, Ministries, and state governments as respondents. It also demands the establishment of a National Task Force on Air Quality and Public Health, chaired by an independent environmental expert.&nbsp;

Officials attributed the sharp decline in air quality to a western disturbance, which caused stagnant weather conditions and trapped pollutants, along with the bursting of firecrackers during Gurpurab celebrations.


The residents of national capital and the neighbouring NCR region witnessed another smoke-filled day on Friday (Nov 7) as Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the 'very poor' category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 312. The lowest AQI was recorded at Anand Vihar area of Delhi at 332, while several other monitoring stations across the city recorded 'very poor' levels. The air quality recorded a steep decline in the 24 hours from relatively better on Thursday (Nov 6) morning at 202. As per CPCB classification, an AQI between the range 0-50 falls under 'Good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 is considered 'severe'. Also read | Delhi bans THESE vehicles from Nov 1. Check details here The period marks one of the most polluted phases of the winter season in Delhi and across metropolitan areas of the country. This year, the Supreme Court (SC) permitted the sale and use of green firecrackers and cited it as a "test case" to find a balance between festivities and environmental protection. However, the air quality sharply fell after Diwali in what critics are calling a “failed case” by the SC. Officials, meanwhile, attributed the latest decline in air quality to a western disturbance, which caused stagnant weather conditions and trapped pollutants, along with the bursting of firecrackers during Gurpurab celebrations. Mumbai, which has relatively better air quality, also experienced a thick layer of smog across parts of the city as the air quality spiked over 200 in the 'poor' category. Also read | At least 100 flights delayed at Delhi Airport due to massive glitch, airlines issue advisories – What we know PIL seeks air pollution be declared a national health emergency Wellness expert Luke Christopher Coutinho filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court seeking to declare air pollution as a national public health emergency. The plea cites annual air quality data from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru that surpass the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (2009). The PIL argues violation of citizens' fundamental right to life and health under Article 21 and names the Central government, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), NITI Aayog, Ministries, and state governments as respondents. It also demands the establishment of a National Task Force on Air Quality and Public Health, chaired by an independent environmental expert.

Officials attributed the sharp decline in air quality to a western disturbance, which caused stagnant weather conditions and trapped pollutants, along with the bursting of firecrackers during Gurpurab celebrations.

Delhi’s air quality deteriorates to ‘very poor’ as smog blankets NCR

The Supreme Court on Friday (Nov 7) observed that no one can blame the pilot for the crash of Air India flight 171 in Ahmedabad earlier in June this year, killing 260 people onboard and on the ground. The court issued a notice to the Centre and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in response to the plea made by the pilot’s father for a judicial inquiry into the plane crash.&nbsp;The A Bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was hearing the petition filed by Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, the father of Commander Sumeet Sabharwal, one of the pilots who was flying the tragic Air India plane.&nbsp;“It’s extremely unfortunate, this crash, but you should not carry this burden that your son is being blamed. Nobody can blame him for anything,” Justice Kant told the Senior Advocate.&nbsp;“I am the father of the Commander of the plane... I am 91 years old. This is a non-independent investigation. It should have been independent. It has taken four months,” Sabharwal stated in his plea. He also urged the court to monitor the investigation into the crash under Rule 12 of the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, which mandates impartiality in accident probes. During the hearing, his concerns about his late son being unfairly blamed for the plane crash were also addressed.&nbsp;“One pilot asked whether the fuel was cut off by the other; the other said no. There's no suggestion of fault in that report,” the Justice Bagchi noted.&nbsp;&nbsp;His lawyer, Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, highlighted safety concerns regarding Boeing aircraft globally, adding that the Ahmedabad crash must be seen in a broader context. However, Justice Bagchi observed that if he challenges the investigation itself, he would have to “challenge the statutory provisions of the Act itself.”&nbsp;The top court also snubbed foreign reports, saying that no one in India believes that the crash was the pilot’s fault.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are not bothered by foreign reports. Your remedy should then be before a foreign court,” Justice Bagchi said. Justice Kant added, “That is nasty reporting. No one in India believes it was the pilot's fault.”

The Supreme Court on Friday (Nov 7) observed that no one can blame the pilot for the crash of Air India flight 171 in Ahmedabad earlier in June this year, killing 260 people onboard and on the ground.

The Supreme Court on Friday (Nov 7) observed that no one can blame the pilot for the crash of Air India flight 171 in Ahmedabad earlier in June this year, killing 260 people onboard and on the ground. The court issued a notice to the Centre and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in response to the plea made by the pilot’s father for a judicial inquiry into the plane crash. The A Bench of Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was hearing the petition filed by Pushkar Raj Sabharwal, the father of Commander Sumeet Sabharwal, one of the pilots who was flying the tragic Air India plane. “It’s extremely unfortunate, this crash, but you should not carry this burden that your son is being blamed. Nobody can blame him for anything,” Justice Kant told the Senior Advocate. “I am the father of the Commander of the plane... I am 91 years old. This is a non-independent investigation. It should have been independent. It has taken four months,” Sabharwal stated in his plea. He also urged the court to monitor the investigation into the crash under Rule 12 of the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, which mandates impartiality in accident probes. During the hearing, his concerns about his late son being unfairly blamed for the plane crash were also addressed. “One pilot asked whether the fuel was cut off by the other; the other said no. There's no suggestion of fault in that report,” the Justice Bagchi noted. His lawyer, Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, highlighted safety concerns regarding Boeing aircraft globally, adding that the Ahmedabad crash must be seen in a broader context. However, Justice Bagchi observed that if he challenges the investigation itself, he would have to “challenge the statutory provisions of the Act itself.” The top court also snubbed foreign reports, saying that no one in India believes that the crash was the pilot’s fault. “We are not bothered by foreign reports. Your remedy should then be before a foreign court,” Justice Bagchi said. Justice Kant added, “That is nasty reporting. No one in India believes it was the pilot's fault.”

The Supreme Court on Friday (Nov 7) observed that no one can blame the pilot for the crash of Air India flight 171 in Ahmedabad earlier in June this year, killing 260 people onboard and on the ground.

‘Nobody can blame pilot’: Supreme Court issues notice on Air India crash probe, snubs foreign reports as ‘nasty’

November 7, 2025, marks the 150th anniversary of the Indian National Song Vande Mataram. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the song first appeared on Bangadarshan on November 7, 1875. He later incorporated it in his immortal novel, 'Anandamath' in 1882 and was first sung by Nobel laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore in the 1896 Indian National Congress session. It was adopted by the Constituent Assembly as the National song in 1950. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the year-long celebration of the national song at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium.&nbsp;<h2>Key facts about Vande Mataram</h2><ol><li>Meaning of Vande Mataram- Vande Mataram is originally written in Sanskrit and has been adopted in many languages. The term Vande Mataram translates to “Mother, I Bow to Thee”. The song personifies India as a mother figure and praises its beauty and spirit in great detail.</li><li>Indian National song is not the complete Vande Mataram: The song Vande Mataram was sung in the novel, 'Anandamath', which is about ascetic rebels who find a couple separated during the Bengal famine and try to reconnect them. The rebels were staging a revolution against the British East India Company. The Novel imagines an alternate universe where unskilled rebels manage to defeat the East India Company's armed troops. The ascetic rebels idolised the motherland as a goddess who had been plundered and would regain her true form through revolution. The Indian National Song uses the first two stanzas of the Vande Mataram. The original Vande Mataram has six stanzas. The later stanzas invoke explicit imagery of various deties, so the two stanzas were used to make it more inclusive.</li><li>Awakened Indian conscience: The song Vande Mataram awakened Indian nationalism; it became a slogan, a battle cry for the independence movement. It was first used as a slogan in 1905 during the movement against the Bengal Partition. The melody became a movement. The British banned the song and the novel to reduce its impact.</li><li>&nbsp;Absolute unanimity: In the constituent assembly, there was absolute unanimity for adopting the Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana as the national song and the national anthem.</li><li>There is no fixed rule: Unlike the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, there is no requirement to stand up or not to move or maintain decorum for reciting or singing Vande Mataram.</li></ol><h2>150 Years of Vande Mataram</h2>Vande Mataram is imbued in Indian consciousness. From the plains of Bengal to Bombay and Punjab, everywhere in India, the song was emblematic of the collective aspiration for freedom and self-governance. The song manages to materialise the abstract idea of patriotism and nationalism. During the colonial period, it was a symbol of resistance, and today, after 150 years, it is a collective identity, a collective aspiration, and a collective effervescence.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India marks 150 years of Vande Mataram on November 7, 2025. Learn about its history, meaning, significance, and PM Modi’s inauguration of the celebrations.

November 7, 2025, marks the 150th anniversary of the Indian National Song Vande Mataram. Composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the song first appeared on Bangadarshan on November 7, 1875. He later incorporated it in his immortal novel, 'Anandamath' in 1882 and was first sung by Nobel laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore in the 1896 Indian National Congress session. It was adopted by the Constituent Assembly as the National song in 1950. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the year-long celebration of the national song at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. Key facts about Vande Mataram Meaning of Vande Mataram- Vande Mataram is originally written in Sanskrit and has been adopted in many languages. The term Vande Mataram translates to “Mother, I Bow to Thee”. The song personifies India as a mother figure and praises its beauty and spirit in great detail. Indian National song is not the complete Vande Mataram: The song Vande Mataram was sung in the novel, 'Anandamath', which is about ascetic rebels who find a couple separated during the Bengal famine and try to reconnect them. The rebels were staging a revolution against the British East India Company. The Novel imagines an alternate universe where unskilled rebels manage to defeat the East India Company's armed troops. The ascetic rebels idolised the motherland as a goddess who had been plundered and would regain her true form through revolution. The Indian National Song uses the first two stanzas of the Vande Mataram. The original Vande Mataram has six stanzas. The later stanzas invoke explicit imagery of various deties, so the two stanzas were used to make it more inclusive. Awakened Indian conscience: The song Vande Mataram awakened Indian nationalism; it became a slogan, a battle cry for the independence movement. It was first used as a slogan in 1905 during the movement against the Bengal Partition. The melody became a movement. The British banned the song and the novel to reduce its impact. Absolute unanimity: In the constituent assembly, there was absolute unanimity for adopting the Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana as the national song and the national anthem. There is no fixed rule: Unlike the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, there is no requirement to stand up or not to move or maintain decorum for reciting or singing Vande Mataram. 150 Years of Vande Mataram Vande Mataram is imbued in Indian consciousness. From the plains of Bengal to Bombay and Punjab, everywhere in India, the song was emblematic of the collective aspiration for freedom and self-governance. The song manages to materialise the abstract idea of patriotism and nationalism. During the colonial period, it was a symbol of resistance, and today, after 150 years, it is a collective identity, a collective aspiration, and a collective effervescence.

India marks 150 years of Vande Mataram on November 7, 2025. Learn about its history, meaning, significance, and how even after 150 years, the song evokes national unity.

150 Years of Vande Mataram: Key facts every Indian should know about the song

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off four new Vande Bharat Express trains on Saturday (Nov 8) from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh during his two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency. The new trains are expected to significantly reduce travel time between major destinations, enhance regional connectivity, and boost tourism.&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the preparations at Varanasi railway station and instructed officials to ensure security arrangements, passenger facilities, and beautification works ahead of the prime minister's visit to the city.&nbsp;The new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on the Banaras-Khajuraho, Lucknow-Saharanpur, Firozpur-Delhi, and Ernakulam-Bengaluru routes.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-pm-narendra-modi-felicitates-indian-women-s-team-after-odi-world-cup-success-applauds-team-spirit-1762341888978">PM Narendra Modi felicitates Indian women's team after ODI World Cup success, applauds team spirit</a><h2>Banaras-Khajuraho</h2>The Banaras-Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express will connect two major tourist destinations, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. It will significantly reduce travel time by 2 hours and 40 minutes compared to the special trains currently in operation.The train is set to ensure connectivity to some of India's most revered religious and cultural destinations, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho.<h2>Lucknow-Sharanpur</h2>The Lucknow-Sharanpur Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in approximately seven hours and 45 minutes, cutting the travel time by nearly one hour. It will pass through Lucknow, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Bijnor, and Saharanpur, and will also enhance access to the holy city of Haridwar in Uttarakhand via Roorkee.<h2>Firozpur-Delhi</h2>The Firozpur-Delhi Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in just 6 hours and 40 minutes, significantly less than existing trains on the route.The train will enhance connectiveiy between the national capital and major cities in Punjab, including Firozpur, Bathinda and Patiala. It is expected to boost trade, tourism and employment opportunities, supporting the development of border regions by facilitating improved access to national markets.<h2>Ernakulam-Bengaluru</h2>Directly connecting Ernakulam in Kerala's Kochi to Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka, the Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in just 8 hours and 40 minutes, reducing the travel time by over 2 hours.The train will connect major IT and commercial hubs, providing professionals, students, and tourists with faster and more comfortable travel options.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-u-s-trump-says-he-may-visit-india-next-year-calls-modi-great-friend-1762485806574">India-U.S.: Trump Says He May Visit India Next Year, Calls Modi ‘Great Friend’</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on the Banaras-Khajuraho, Lucknow-Saharanpur, Firozpur-Delhi, and Ernakulam-Bengaluru routes.



Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off four new Vande Bharat Express trains on Saturday (Nov 8) from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh during his two-day visit to his parliamentary constituency. The new trains are expected to significantly reduce travel time between major destinations, enhance regional connectivity, and boost tourism. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the preparations at Varanasi railway station and instructed officials to ensure security arrangements, passenger facilities, and beautification works ahead of the prime minister's visit to the city. The new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on the Banaras-Khajuraho, Lucknow-Saharanpur, Firozpur-Delhi, and Ernakulam-Bengaluru routes. Also read | PM Narendra Modi felicitates Indian women's team after ODI World Cup success, applauds team spirit Banaras-Khajuraho The Banaras-Khajuraho Vande Bharat Express will connect two major tourist destinations, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. It will significantly reduce travel time by 2 hours and 40 minutes compared to the special trains currently in operation. The train is set to ensure connectivity to some of India's most revered religious and cultural destinations, including Varanasi, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Khajuraho. Lucknow-Sharanpur The Lucknow-Sharanpur Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in approximately seven hours and 45 minutes, cutting the travel time by nearly one hour. It will pass through Lucknow, Sitapur, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Bijnor, and Saharanpur, and will also enhance access to the holy city of Haridwar in Uttarakhand via Roorkee. Firozpur-Delhi The Firozpur-Delhi Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in just 6 hours and 40 minutes, significantly less than existing trains on the route. The train will enhance connectiveiy between the national capital and major cities in Punjab, including Firozpur, Bathinda and Patiala. It is expected to boost trade, tourism and employment opportunities, supporting the development of border regions by facilitating improved access to national markets. Ernakulam-Bengaluru Directly connecting Ernakulam in Kerala's Kochi to Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka, the Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express will complete the journey in just 8 hours and 40 minutes, reducing the travel time by over 2 hours. The train will connect major IT and commercial hubs, providing professionals, students, and tourists with faster and more comfortable travel options. Also read | India-U.S.: Trump Says He May Visit India Next Year, Calls Modi ‘Great Friend’

The new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on the Banaras-Khajuraho, Lucknow-Saharanpur, Firozpur-Delhi, and Ernakulam-Bengaluru routes.&nbsp;

PM Modi to flag off four new Vande Bharat trains from Varanasi. Check routes

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has lauded India sending Buddha relics to his country, and termed the railway connectivity project as one that further 'cements' the friendship. India and Bhutan are advancing a 58-km cross-border rail link from Kokrajhar (Assam) to Gelephu, set to boost trade and tourism.&nbsp;His comments come ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Himalayan kingdom next week to attend the 70th birthday of Bhutan’s Fourth King &amp; Global Peace Prayer Festival. During PM Modi's visit, a key hydropower project will be inaugurated. Speaking to WION, he said, 'PM Modi will be the guest of honour'. Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project (1,020 MW), which will nearly double Bhutan's electricity capacity, boost power exports to India, and enhance energy security for both nations. Funded partly by India, it aligns with Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-bhutan-s-himalayan-haven-buddhist-leaders-convene-for-global-peace-prayers-india-to-send-relics-1762436747419">In Bhutan’s Himalayan haven, Buddhist leaders convene for global peace prayers; India to send relics</a> Tobgay described the Global Peace Prayer Festival, a joint initiative of the Indian and Bhutanese governments, as a reminder of shared values. “We have a strong spiritual tradition of conducting prayers for peace. We have reached out to monks, spiritual practitioners,” he said, adding that the event would feature an “unprecedented gathering of worshipers" who are "offering prayers for global Peace".&nbsp;India will be sending Buddha relics for the festival. PM Tobgay welcomed the gesture. “We will receive very sacred relics of Lord Buddha from India..,” he said. “India sending Relics, shows we are on the same page when it comes to spiritual collaboration, not just political, development cooperation. Deeply grateful for PM Modi to receive and worship relics. I see relics being sent as a gift of PM Modi, my elder brother, to people of Bhutan.’”&nbsp;Tobgay spoke of Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”. He added, “PM Modi is very caring to me, I feel the warmth of brotherhood, as early as 2014...he is an exemplary political leader, spiritual master.”&nbsp;He also spoke about Gelephu Mindfulness City, a planned “economic corridor” on Bhutan’s southern border with India. “It is important for India as well, it is on the border with India,” Tobgay said. “Indian business can enjoy advantages. It will be a gateway for investment.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buddhist-leaders-to-gather-in-bhutan-for-a-unique-global-peace-prayer-1761988446724">Buddhist leaders to gather in Bhutan for a unique Global Peace Prayer</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tobgay spoke of PM Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has lauded India sending Buddha relics to his country, and termed the railway connectivity project as one that further 'cements' the friendship. India and Bhutan are advancing a 58-km cross-border rail link from Kokrajhar (Assam) to Gelephu, set to boost trade and tourism. His comments come ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Himalayan kingdom next week to attend the 70th birthday of Bhutan’s Fourth King & Global Peace Prayer Festival. During PM Modi's visit, a key hydropower project will be inaugurated. Speaking to WION, he said, 'PM Modi will be the guest of honour'. Punatsangchhu-II Hydropower Project (1,020 MW), which will nearly double Bhutan's electricity capacity, boost power exports to India, and enhance energy security for both nations. Funded partly by India, it aligns with Bhutan's 13th Five-Year Plan. Also read | In Bhutan’s Himalayan haven, Buddhist leaders convene for global peace prayers; India to send relics Tobgay described the Global Peace Prayer Festival, a joint initiative of the Indian and Bhutanese governments, as a reminder of shared values. “We have a strong spiritual tradition of conducting prayers for peace. We have reached out to monks, spiritual practitioners,” he said, adding that the event would feature an “unprecedented gathering of worshipers" who are "offering prayers for global Peace". India will be sending Buddha relics for the festival. PM Tobgay welcomed the gesture. “We will receive very sacred relics of Lord Buddha from India..,” he said. “India sending Relics, shows we are on the same page when it comes to spiritual collaboration, not just political, development cooperation. Deeply grateful for PM Modi to receive and worship relics. I see relics being sent as a gift of PM Modi, my elder brother, to people of Bhutan.’” Tobgay spoke of Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”. He added, “PM Modi is very caring to me, I feel the warmth of brotherhood, as early as 2014...he is an exemplary political leader, spiritual master.” He also spoke about Gelephu Mindfulness City, a planned “economic corridor” on Bhutan’s southern border with India. “It is important for India as well, it is on the border with India,” Tobgay said. “Indian business can enjoy advantages. It will be a gateway for investment.” Also read | Buddhist leaders to gather in Bhutan for a unique Global Peace Prayer

Tobgay spoke of PM Modi in effusive terms, calling him “my elder brother, my political mentor, he is not just a political leader, but a spiritual master. To have him here, bless the gathering, is very important for us”

PM Modi to attend global Peace Prayer Festival, says Bhutan PM Tobgay

The Supreme Court on Friday (Nov 7) ordered the State governments and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to remove stray animals including dogs from the highways across India. It also asked the state governments to have proper fencing around government institutions to bar the entry of stary animals. In a strictly worded direction, the court said that the stray animals should not be released back to the locations from where they were removed.&nbsp;Justice Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and NV Anjaria, while hearing the petition, asked State governments and Union Territories to identify government institutions and ensure that their premises are fenced to prevent the entry of stray animals. The court said that the order is applicable to district hospitals, public sports complexes, and railway stations. "Every stray dog to be forthwith removed from such premises and relocated to shelter after sterilization. Stray dog to not be released in area from which it is picked up. Permitting the same would defeat the very purpose," Justice Mehta said.&nbsp;During the hearing, Justice Mehta also said, " A joint coordinated drive shall be undertaken to immediately remove all such animals found on highways/roadways/expressways, including cattle. Cattle and others animals shall be provided with all necessary care." In its order the court said that Chief Secretaries of all states/UTs will be responsible for strict compliance. "Otherwise, officers will be held personally responsible," the court said. &nbsp;

The Supreme Court ordered states and the NHAI to remove all stray animals, including dogs and cattle, from highways and to fence government premises like hospitals and stations to block their entry. Animals must be sterilised and relocated—not returned

The Supreme Court on Friday (Nov 7) ordered the State governments and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to remove stray animals including dogs from the highways across India. It also asked the state governments to have proper fencing around government institutions to bar the entry of stary animals. In a strictly worded direction, the court said that the stray animals should not be released back to the locations from where they were removed. Justice Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and NV Anjaria, while hearing the petition, asked State governments and Union Territories to identify government institutions and ensure that their premises are fenced to prevent the entry of stray animals. The court said that the order is applicable to district hospitals, public sports complexes, and railway stations. "Every stray dog to be forthwith removed from such premises and relocated to shelter after sterilization. Stray dog to not be released in area from which it is picked up. Permitting the same would defeat the very purpose," Justice Mehta said. During the hearing, Justice Mehta also said, " A joint coordinated drive shall be undertaken to immediately remove all such animals found on highways/roadways/expressways, including cattle. Cattle and others animals shall be provided with all necessary care." In its order the court said that Chief Secretaries of all states/UTs will be responsible for strict compliance. "Otherwise, officers will be held personally responsible," the court said.

The Supreme Court ordered states and the NHAI to remove all stray animals, including dogs and cattle, from highways and to fence government premises like hospitals and stations to block their entry. Animals must be sterilised and relocated—not returned

Supreme Court orders removal of all stray animals from Indian highways, says 'fence govt institutions' to avoid dog bites

Flight operations were affected at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport due to a technical glitch in the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system on Friday (Nov 7) morning. Airlines issued advisories as at least 100 flights were delayed by over 30 minutes. The passengers were requested to remain calm and get in touch with their respective airlines as the technical teams worked to resolve the issue. The incident happened third time within a few days.&nbsp;&nbsp;The flights at the Delhi airport were affected on both sides, incoming and outgoing, as the planes were waiting for hours on the runway. The delays resulted in chaos at the airport with heavy crowds at the boarding gates.&nbsp;“Due to a technical issue with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, flight operations at IGIA are experiencing delays. Their team is actively working with all stakeholders including DIAL to resolve it at the earliest,” Delhi Airport said in an advisory.&nbsp;&nbsp;It added, “Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Passenger Advisory issued at 08:34 Hours<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiAirport?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiAirport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PassengerAdvisory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PassengerAdvisory</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DELAdvisory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DELAdvisory</a> <a href="https://t.co/ckfpibIazv">pic.twitter.com/ckfpibIazv</a>&mdash; Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiAirport/status/1986631340574609803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

IndiGo Airlines issued a similar advisory, urging passengers to check for the latest updates on their flights.&nbsp;“Please be assured that our crew and ground teams are actively assisting and doing their best to make your wait as smooth as possible. For the latest updates on your flight, we encourage you to check our website,” the airlines said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/6ETravelAdvisory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#6ETravelAdvisory</a> Flight operations at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> Airport are currently experiencing delays due to a technical issue with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system. As a result, flight operations at Delhi and several northern regions are impacted. We understand that extended wait times,…&mdash; IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiGo6E/status/1986638546875392291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Air India also released an advisory stating that the airline’s cabin crew and on-ground staff at the airport were extending immediate assistance to reduce passenger inconvenience.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TravelAdvisory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TravelAdvisory</a> A technical issue with the ATC system in Delhi is impacting flight operations across all airlines, leading to delays and longer wait times at the airport and onboard aircraft. We regret the inconvenience caused by this unforeseen disruption, which is beyond our…&mdash; Air India (@airindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/airindia/status/1986639590841852188?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At least 100 flights were delayed at Delhi Airport after a technical glitch in the Air Traffic Control (ATC), resulting in chaos among the passengers.


Flight operations were affected at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport due to a technical glitch in the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system on Friday (Nov 7) morning. Airlines issued advisories as at least 100 flights were delayed by over 30 minutes. The passengers were requested to remain calm and get in touch with their respective airlines as the technical teams worked to resolve the issue. The incident happened third time within a few days. The flights at the Delhi airport were affected on both sides, incoming and outgoing, as the planes were waiting for hours on the runway. The delays resulted in chaos at the airport with heavy crowds at the boarding gates. “Due to a technical issue with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, flight operations at IGIA are experiencing delays. Their team is actively working with all stakeholders including DIAL to resolve it at the earliest,” Delhi Airport said in an advisory. It added, “Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused.”

At least 100 flights were delayed at Delhi Airport after a technical glitch in the Air Traffic Control (ATC), resulting in chaos among the passengers.

At least 100 flights delayed at Delhi Airport due to massive glitch, airlines issue advisories – What we know

In a major success against anti-national activities, Srinagar Police foiled a terror attempt by arresting three individuals and recovering arms and ammunition from their possession, thereby averting a potential attack.&nbsp;During routine vehicle checking near Mamta Chowk, Konakhan, Dalgate, a Police team from Police Station Khanyar intercepted a black Royal Enfield motorcycle without a registration number. On being signalled to stop, the rider and two pillion passengers attempted to flee but were tactfully apprehended by alert personnel on duty.&nbsp;The arrested individuals have been identified as Shah Mutayib, son of Manzoor Ahmad Shah, resident of Koolipora Khanyar, Kamran Hassan Shah, son of Ghulam Hassan Shah, resident of Koolipora Khanyar and Mohammad Nadeem, son of Mohammad Yaseen Salmani, resident of Meerut (U.P.), presently residing at Kawa Mohalla, Khanyar.&nbsp;A search of their possession led to the recovery of one country-made pistol (Desi Katta) and nine live rounds. Preliminary investigation indicates that the accused were planning to carry out a terror-related act in the locality using the recovered weapon and ammunition.&nbsp;Accordingly, FIR No. 51/2025 has been registered at Police Station Khanyar under sections 3, 7, 25 Arms Act, 20, 23 UAPA, and relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Further investigation is in progress to identify their associates, network, and possible links with other subversive elements.The swift and professional action of Srinagar Police once again demonstrates its commitment to maintaining peace and public safety in the city.

During routine vehicle checking, a Police team from Police Station Khanyar intercepted a black Royal Enfield motorcycle without a registration number. On being signalled to stop, the rider and two pillion passengers attempted to flee but were tactfully apprehended 

In a major success against anti-national activities, Srinagar Police foiled a terror attempt by arresting three individuals and recovering arms and ammunition from their possession, thereby averting a potential attack. During routine vehicle checking near Mamta Chowk, Konakhan, Dalgate, a Police team from Police Station Khanyar intercepted a black Royal Enfield motorcycle without a registration number. On being signalled to stop, the rider and two pillion passengers attempted to flee but were tactfully apprehended by alert personnel on duty. The arrested individuals have been identified as Shah Mutayib, son of Manzoor Ahmad Shah, resident of Koolipora Khanyar, Kamran Hassan Shah, son of Ghulam Hassan Shah, resident of Koolipora Khanyar and Mohammad Nadeem, son of Mohammad Yaseen Salmani, resident of Meerut (U.P.), presently residing at Kawa Mohalla, Khanyar. A search of their possession led to the recovery of one country-made pistol (Desi Katta) and nine live rounds. Preliminary investigation indicates that the accused were planning to carry out a terror-related act in the locality using the recovered weapon and ammunition. Accordingly, FIR No. 51/2025 has been registered at Police Station Khanyar under sections 3, 7, 25 Arms Act, 20, 23 UAPA, and relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Further investigation is in progress to identify their associates, network, and possible links with other subversive elements. The swift and professional action of Srinagar Police once again demonstrates its commitment to maintaining peace and public safety in the city.

During routine vehicle checking, a Police team from Police Station Khanyar intercepted a black Royal Enfield motorcycle without a registration number. On being signalled to stop, the rider and two pillion passengers attempted to flee but were tactfully apprehended&nbsp;

Srinagar police foil terror plot; three accused arrested with arms and ammunition

Indian Navy's GSAT-7R (CMS-03) communication satellite that was launched on Sunday, (Nov 2nd) by the Indian Space agency ISRO's LVM3 rocket, has been sequentially raised into its final orbit. "The spacecraft is in the required circular orbit that is about 36,000kms above the Earth," ISRO Chief Dr. V. Narayanan told WION.&nbsp;<h2>Why is orbit raising crucial for a communication satellite ?</h2>&nbsp;Typically, all communication satellites are launched into an initial, temporary orbit known as Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Think of its like a transit halt. Satellites remain in GTO for barely a week, after which they are gradually pushed to their designated orbits. GTO is an elliptical or egg-shaped orbit, where the satellite circles very close above the Earth and then moves very far away from the Earth, all during a single revolution around the Earth. A satellite in a GTO orbit would be 170-200kms above Earth at its nearest approach (perigee) and about 36,000kms above the Earth at its farthest approach (apogee).&nbsp;To enable communication or broadcast over a vast region(almost one-third of the Earth), a satellite must be placed in a circular orbit 36,000kms above the Earth's equator, this is known as a Geostationary orbit. Therefore, satellites launched into GTO have to fire their engines while at perigee and raise themselves to the Geostationary orbit.&nbsp;As the name suggests, Geostationary orbit is one where the satellite is exactly in sync with the Earth's 24-hour rotation period. Therefore, the GSAT-7R satellite which is placed 36,000kms above the Indian landmass would always remain above the Indian landmass, because its rotation is in complete sync with the Earth. Because of its vantage point high above India and the Indian ocean region, it can provide coverage in the vast maritime region surrounding the subcontinent.For context, this is why DTH TV antennae are all permanently pointing to a fixed location in the sky. The antennae are oriented towards a specific Geostationary satellite, one that appears stationary relative to a region on Earth.&nbsp;Owing to lifting power limitations of its LVM3 rocket which can only carry 4,000lg to GTO, ISRO hurled the GSAT-7R satellite into a lower-than-GTO orbit. The rocket placed the satellite in an orbit that is 170kms(perigee) at its closest approach to Earth and about 26,700kms(apogee) at its farthest approach to Earth. Thereafter, ISRO had issued multiple commands to fire the satellite's engines and place it in a 36,000kms circular orbit, where it is equidistant from Earth.&nbsp;<h2>Why is GSAT-7R a significant strategic asset ?</h2>&nbsp;Weighing 4,400kg, GSAT-7R or CMS-03 is India's largest military communications satellite. It will enable secure and real-time data, video, voice connectivity between Indian Navy ships, submarines, aircraft, and Maritime Operations Centres. For India, it is also the heaviest satellite launched from home soil.&nbsp;According to the Indian Navy, the satellite carries components that are specifically developed to meet their operational requirements. The satellite is meant to provide telecommunications coverage across the Indian ocean region, and enhance the Navy's space-based communications and Maritime domain awareness capabilities.&nbsp;The CMS-03/GSAT-7R is a replacement for the ageing GSAT-7 that ISRO built for the Indian Navy in 2013. The 2,650kg GSAT-7 was launched from overseas aboard Europe's Ariane rocket in August 2013, as ISRO did not possess the rocketry muscle power to lift such a heavy satellite at the time. Therefore, ISRO paid the European firm to ferry the Indian satellite to space.&nbsp; &nbsp;

To enable communication or broadcast over a vast region(almost one-third of the Earth), a satellite must be placed in a circular orbit 36,000kms above the Earths equator, this is known as a Geostationary orbit.

Indian Navy's GSAT-7R (CMS-03) communication satellite that was launched on Sunday, (Nov 2nd) by the Indian Space agency ISRO's LVM3 rocket, has been sequentially raised into its final orbit. "The spacecraft is in the required circular orbit that is about 36,000kms above the Earth," ISRO Chief Dr. V. Narayanan told WION. Why is orbit raising crucial for a communication satellite ? Typically, all communication satellites are launched into an initial, temporary orbit known as Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Think of its like a transit halt. Satellites remain in GTO for barely a week, after which they are gradually pushed to their designated orbits. GTO is an elliptical or egg-shaped orbit, where the satellite circles very close above the Earth and then moves very far away from the Earth, all during a single revolution around the Earth. A satellite in a GTO orbit would be 170-200kms above Earth at its nearest approach (perigee) and about 36,000kms above the Earth at its farthest approach (apogee). To enable communication or broadcast over a vast region(almost one-third of the Earth), a satellite must be placed in a circular orbit 36,000kms above the Earth's equator, this is known as a Geostationary orbit. Therefore, satellites launched into GTO have to fire their engines while at perigee and raise themselves to the Geostationary orbit. As the name suggests, Geostationary orbit is one where the satellite is exactly in sync with the Earth's 24-hour rotation period. Therefore, the GSAT-7R satellite which is placed 36,000kms above the Indian landmass would always remain above the Indian landmass, because its rotation is in complete sync with the Earth. Because of its vantage point high above India and the Indian ocean region, it can provide coverage in the vast maritime region surrounding the subcontinent. For context, this is why DTH TV antennae are all permanently pointing to a fixed location in the sky. The antennae are oriented towards a specific Geostationary satellite, one that appears stationary relative to a region on Earth. Owing to lifting power limitations of its LVM3 rocket which can only carry 4,000lg to GTO, ISRO hurled the GSAT-7R satellite into a lower-than-GTO orbit. The rocket placed the satellite in an orbit that is 170kms(perigee) at its closest approach to Earth and about 26,700kms(apogee) at its farthest approach to Earth. Thereafter, ISRO had issued multiple commands to fire the satellite's engines and place it in a 36,000kms circular orbit, where it is equidistant from Earth. Why is GSAT-7R a significant strategic asset ? Weighing 4,400kg, GSAT-7R or CMS-03 is India's largest military communications satellite. It will enable secure and real-time data, video, voice connectivity between Indian Navy ships, submarines, aircraft, and Maritime Operations Centres. For India, it is also the heaviest satellite launched from home soil. According to the Indian Navy, the satellite carries components that are specifically developed to meet their operational requirements. The satellite is meant to provide telecommunications coverage across the Indian ocean region, and enhance the Navy's space-based communications and Maritime domain awareness capabilities. The CMS-03/GSAT-7R is a replacement for the ageing GSAT-7 that ISRO built for the Indian Navy in 2013. The 2,650kg GSAT-7 was launched from overseas aboard Europe's Ariane rocket in August 2013, as ISRO did not possess the rocketry muscle power to lift such a heavy satellite at the time. Therefore, ISRO paid the European firm to ferry the Indian satellite to space.

To enable communication or broadcast over a vast region(almost one-third of the Earth), a satellite must be placed in a circular orbit 36,000kms above the Earth's equator, this is known as a Geostationary orbit.

Indian Navy's GSAT-7R satellite is at its final destination: ISRO Chief

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of attempting to "divide" the Indian Army along religious and caste lines. Shah's statement followed days after the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha gave his controversial remark that "10 per cent of the population have control over the Army". In addition, he also criticised RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav during his address.&nbsp;Union Home Minister also hailed the work of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for decisive action against the "anti-national" Popular Front of India. "PM Modi has made the country safe. The PFI (Popular Front of India) even reached Phulwarisharif. It was an anti-national organisation... Tell me, should PFI be banned or not?" Amit Shah questioned the crowd, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;"From Kerala to Phulwarisharif, PM Modi put everyone from PFI behind bars. Lalu says they should be released. Lalu ji, they will never be released, remember my words," Shah also said.<h3>The government banned the PFI&nbsp;</h3>The Ministry of Home Affairs had officially banned the PFI and its affiliates in September 2022, designating them as an “unlawful association.” "Rahul Gandhi just made a statement about how many people from a certain caste our religion are in our Army. Shame on you, Rahul Gandhi. You're dividing the Army based on religion and caste. We respect brave soldiers of any caste or religion who join the army," Amit Shah added.&nbsp;While addressing a campaign rally on Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi alleged that a small fraction of the population of India, seemingly referring to upper castes, holds disproportionate control over the Army. His statement sparked widespread criticism from political rivals.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) confirmed that a voter turnout of 60.13 per cent for the first phase of assembly elections as of 5:00 PM.

While addressing a campaign rally on Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi alleged that a small fraction of the population of India, seemingly referring to upper castes, holds disproportionate control over the Army.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of attempting to "divide" the Indian Army along religious and caste lines. Shah's statement followed days after the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha gave his controversial remark that "10 per cent of the population have control over the Army". In addition, he also criticised RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav during his address. Union Home Minister also hailed the work of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for decisive action against the "anti-national" Popular Front of India. "PM Modi has made the country safe. The PFI (Popular Front of India) even reached Phulwarisharif. It was an anti-national organisation... Tell me, should PFI be banned or not?" Amit Shah questioned the crowd, news agency ANI reported. "From Kerala to Phulwarisharif, PM Modi put everyone from PFI behind bars. Lalu says they should be released. Lalu ji, they will never be released, remember my words," Shah also said. The government banned the PFI The Ministry of Home Affairs had officially banned the PFI and its affiliates in September 2022, designating them as an “unlawful association.” "Rahul Gandhi just made a statement about how many people from a certain caste our religion are in our Army. Shame on you, Rahul Gandhi. You're dividing the Army based on religion and caste. We respect brave soldiers of any caste or religion who join the army," Amit Shah added. While addressing a campaign rally on Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi alleged that a small fraction of the population of India, seemingly referring to upper castes, holds disproportionate control over the Army. His statement sparked widespread criticism from political rivals. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) confirmed that a voter turnout of 60.13 per cent for the first phase of assembly elections as of 5:00 PM.

While addressing a campaign rally on Tuesday, Rahul Gandhi alleged that a small fraction of the population of India, seemingly referring to upper castes, holds disproportionate control over the Army.

‘Don’t divide the Army by caste and religion’: Amit Shah hits out at Rahul Gandhi

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, where snow-capped peaks guard a kingdom that measures progress by Gross National Happiness rather than GDP, Bhutan is hosting a rare spiritual summit aimed at healing a fractured world. The Global Peace Prayer Festival, which began Tuesday and runs through Nov. 19.It has drawn eminent lamas from every major Buddhist lineage to Thimphu’s sacred sites and Changlimithang Stadium for 16 days of rituals, empowerments, and interfaith harmony.Presided over by His Holiness the Je Khenpo—Bhutan’s chief abbot and spiritual head of the Central Monastic Body—the gathering includes the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa, the 9th Gyalwang Drukpa, and Dorji Lopen Kinley, among others. Their mission: to channel ancient Vajrayana practices into a collective plea for planetary peace amid wars, climate crises, and digital discord.The festival unfolds like a living liturgical calendar. From Nov. 4 to 10, hundreds of monks performed the Jabzhi Doechog, an elaborate thread-cross ritual rarely staged at this scale, intended to bind negative forces and purify global karma. Chanted in Dzongkha and classical Dharma languages, the ceremonies are streamed live with English and Tibetan translations, reaching millions online.On Nov. 10, lamas bestowed public blessings; the following day, thousands joined a mass recitation of the Bazaguru mantra—Om Ah Hum Vajra Guru Padma Siddhi Hum—invoking Guru Rinpoche’s transformative power. The centrepiece, a three-day Kalachakra empowerment led by the Je Khenpo from Nov. 12 to 14, offers a tantric map of the universe within the human body, revered as a spiritual technology to avert catastrophe.A historic milestone closes the festival: from Nov. 15 to 19, over 250 nuns will receive full Bhikkhuni ordination at the Bhutan Nuns Foundation—the second such ceremony in the kingdom’s Mahayana tradition, advancing gender equity in monastic life.Parallel events include scholarly panels on Kalachakra cosmology and an exhibition of rare thangkas depicting intricate mandalas. The festival’s emblem—two golden and white Bodhi leaves, symbolising enlightenment and balance between East and West—adorns prayer flags fluttering across Thimphu.India will be sending Buddha relics later this week. It coincides with PM Modi's visit to the country as well. The Indian leader will be in Thimphu from 11-12 November, during which key infrastructure projects could be inaugurated.Organisers expect thousands in person and millions digitally, blending ancient ritual with modern outreach. For Bhutan, a constitutional monarchy, the festival is both homecoming and global embrace—a quiet mountain nation’s prayer for a louder, kinder world.

A historic milestone closes the festival: from Nov. 15 to 19, over 250 nuns will receive full Bhikkhuni ordination at the Bhutan Nuns Foundation—the second such ceremony in the kingdom’s Mahayana tradition, advancing gender equity in monastic life.

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, where snow-capped peaks guard a kingdom that measures progress by Gross National Happiness rather than GDP, Bhutan is hosting a rare spiritual summit aimed at healing a fractured world. The Global Peace Prayer Festival, which began Tuesday and runs through Nov. 19. It has drawn eminent lamas from every major Buddhist lineage to Thimphu’s sacred sites and Changlimithang Stadium for 16 days of rituals, empowerments, and interfaith harmony. Presided over by His Holiness the Je Khenpo—Bhutan’s chief abbot and spiritual head of the Central Monastic Body—the gathering includes the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa, the 9th Gyalwang Drukpa, and Dorji Lopen Kinley, among others. Their mission: to channel ancient Vajrayana practices into a collective plea for planetary peace amid wars, climate crises, and digital discord. The festival unfolds like a living liturgical calendar. From Nov. 4 to 10, hundreds of monks performed the Jabzhi Doechog, an elaborate thread-cross ritual rarely staged at this scale, intended to bind negative forces and purify global karma. Chanted in Dzongkha and classical Dharma languages, the ceremonies are streamed live with English and Tibetan translations, reaching millions online. On Nov. 10, lamas bestowed public blessings; the following day, thousands joined a mass recitation of the Bazaguru mantra—Om Ah Hum Vajra Guru Padma Siddhi Hum—invoking Guru Rinpoche’s transformative power. The centrepiece, a three-day Kalachakra empowerment led by the Je Khenpo from Nov. 12 to 14, offers a tantric map of the universe within the human body, revered as a spiritual technology to avert catastrophe. A historic milestone closes the festival: from Nov. 15 to 19, over 250 nuns will receive full Bhikkhuni ordination at the Bhutan Nuns Foundation—the second such ceremony in the kingdom’s Mahayana tradition, advancing gender equity in monastic life. Parallel events include scholarly panels on Kalachakra cosmology and an exhibition of rare thangkas depicting intricate mandalas. The festival’s emblem—two golden and white Bodhi leaves, symbolising enlightenment and balance between East and West—adorns prayer flags fluttering across Thimphu. India will be sending Buddha relics later this week. It coincides with PM Modi's visit to the country as well. The Indian leader will be in Thimphu from 11-12 November, during which key infrastructure projects could be inaugurated. Organisers expect thousands in person and millions digitally, blending ancient ritual with modern outreach. For Bhutan, a constitutional monarchy, the festival is both homecoming and global embrace—a quiet mountain nation’s prayer for a louder, kinder world.

A historic milestone closes the festival: from Nov. 15 to 19, over 250 nuns will receive full Bhikkhuni ordination at the Bhutan Nuns Foundation—the second such ceremony in the kingdom’s Mahayana tradition, advancing gender equity in monastic life.

In Bhutan’s Himalayan haven, Buddhist leaders convene for global peace prayers; India to send relics

In a quiet but unmistakable show of resolve, India has unveiled three new military garrisons along its volatile border with Bangladesh, fortifying a frontier amid Delhi's concerns of growing engagement of Pakistan with Bangladesh.The outposts, positioned at Bamuni near Dhubri , Kishenganj , and Chopra are now fully operational and are seen as force multiplier for the Indian Army and Border Security Force, designed to plug perceived gaps in the 4,096-kilometer Indo-Bangladeshi boundary and ensure swift countermeasures to any incursion.The move comes at a precarious moment. The Siliguri Corridor, a slender 22-kilometer-wide strip of land in northern West Bengal, derisively called the "Chicken's Neck" for its vulnerability, serves as India's sole terrestrial link to its eight northeastern states, home to over 45 million people and vast natural resources. Severing this artery would isolate the region, crippling military logistics and economic lifelines that ferry billions in goods annually.New Delhi has ramped up fortifications here with the new garrisons as part of a broader border modernization drive. &nbsp;The timing is no coincidence. Just weeks ago, Bangladesh's interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate elevated to power after student-led protests toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, hosted Pakistan's top military brass in Dhaka. General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, chairman of Pakistan's Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, met Yunus at his Jamuna residence to firm up ties, and focus on connectivity. But in India, these meetings will be seen more than diplomatic niceties. If reports are to be believed, more such Rawalpindi Dhaka engagements are in the offing. &nbsp;

The Siliguri Corridor, a slender 22-kilometer-wide strip of land in northern West Bengal, derisively called the Chickens Neck for its vulnerability, serves as Indias sole terrestrial link to its eight northeastern states.

In a quiet but unmistakable show of resolve, India has unveiled three new military garrisons along its volatile border with Bangladesh, fortifying a frontier amid Delhi's concerns of growing engagement of Pakistan with Bangladesh. The outposts, positioned at Bamuni near Dhubri , Kishenganj , and Chopra are now fully operational and are seen as force multiplier for the Indian Army and Border Security Force, designed to plug perceived gaps in the 4,096-kilometer Indo-Bangladeshi boundary and ensure swift countermeasures to any incursion. The move comes at a precarious moment. The Siliguri Corridor, a slender 22-kilometer-wide strip of land in northern West Bengal, derisively called the "Chicken's Neck" for its vulnerability, serves as India's sole terrestrial link to its eight northeastern states, home to over 45 million people and vast natural resources. Severing this artery would isolate the region, crippling military logistics and economic lifelines that ferry billions in goods annually. New Delhi has ramped up fortifications here with the new garrisons as part of a broader border modernization drive. The timing is no coincidence. Just weeks ago, Bangladesh's interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate elevated to power after student-led protests toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, hosted Pakistan's top military brass in Dhaka. General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, chairman of Pakistan's Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, met Yunus at his Jamuna residence to firm up ties, and focus on connectivity. But in India, these meetings will be seen more than diplomatic niceties. If reports are to be believed, more such Rawalpindi Dhaka engagements are in the offing.

The Siliguri Corridor, a slender 22-kilometer-wide strip of land in northern West Bengal, derisively called the "Chicken's Neck" for its vulnerability, serves as India's sole terrestrial link to its eight northeastern states.

India bolsters 'chicken's neck' defences amid Pakistan's engagement with Bangladesh

A Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leader has sparked controversy after his claim that 'Jana Gana Man' - India's national anthem- is in reality a British anthem. Then minister, Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri from Karnataka, claimed that the anthem was composed to welcome the British. The claim was heavily slammed by Congress leader Priyank Kharge, who said, "Another day, another RSS “WhatsApp history” lesson. @BJP4Karnataka MP Sri. Kageri now claims our National Anthem is “British.” Utter Nonsense."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-assembly-election-2025-will-unemployment-change-the-game-for-tejashwi-yadav-or-women-voters-be-proven-silent-deciders-for-nitish-kumar-1762375366941">Bihar assembly election 2025: Will unemployment and women be silent deciders?</a>&nbsp;Kharge also pointed out that Rabindranath Tagore penned the stanza, Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata, in 1911. It is the same stanza that later became India’s national anthem.&nbsp;"Tagore also clarified in 1937 &amp; 1939 that it hails the “Dispenser of India’s destiny,” and “could never be George V, George VI, or any other George," Kharge wrote.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-gurudwaras-only-for-sikhs-indian-hindu-pilgrims-denied-entry-to-nankana-sahib-in-pakistan-1762356494333">'Gurudwaras only for Sikhs'? Indian Hindu pilgrims denied entry to Nankana Sahib in Pakistan</a>&nbsp;"There was a strong chorus to make Vande Mataram the national anthem. However, our ancestors decided that along with Vande Mataram, Jana Gana Mana, which was composed to welcome the British, should also be included. Today, we have accepted it and continue to follow it," NDTV quoted the leader as saying.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-got-our-a-es-handed-to-us-vivek-ramaswamy-thinks-republicans-need-to-learn-2-things-after-mamdani-s-win-1762348114786">‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win</a>

Kharge also pointed out that Rabindranath Tagore penned the stanza, Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata, in 1911. It is the same stanza that later became India’s national anthem.



A Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leader has sparked controversy after his claim that 'Jana Gana Man' - India's national anthem- is in reality a British anthem. Then minister, Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri from Karnataka, claimed that the anthem was composed to welcome the British. The claim was heavily slammed by Congress leader Priyank Kharge, who said, "Another day, another RSS “WhatsApp history” lesson. @BJP4Karnataka MP Sri. Kageri now claims our National Anthem is “British.” Utter Nonsense." Also read: Bihar assembly election 2025: Will unemployment and women be silent deciders? Kharge also pointed out that Rabindranath Tagore penned the stanza, Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata, in 1911. It is the same stanza that later became India’s national anthem. "Tagore also clarified in 1937 & 1939 that it hails the “Dispenser of India’s destiny,” and “could never be George V, George VI, or any other George," Kharge wrote. Also read: 'Gurudwaras only for Sikhs'? Indian Hindu pilgrims denied entry to Nankana Sahib in Pakistan "There was a strong chorus to make Vande Mataram the national anthem. However, our ancestors decided that along with Vande Mataram, Jana Gana Mana, which was composed to welcome the British, should also be included. Today, we have accepted it and continue to follow it," NDTV quoted the leader as saying. Also read: ‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win

Kharge also pointed out that Rabindranath Tagore penned the stanza, Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata, in 1911. It is the same stanza that later became India’s national anthem.&nbsp;

Is 'Jana Gana Mana’ a British anthem? BJP leader sparks controversy, Congress says...

The Kashmir Valley bursts into a vivid crimson during autumn, a magical transformation that draws thousands of tourists from across India and around the world. The majestic Chinar trees appear adorned in layered hues of red and gold, evoking scenes straight out of Bollywood films.&nbsp;The world-renowned Mughal gardens of Kashmir welcome visitors with a vibrant red carpet of majestic Chinar trees, set against the stunning backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills. Iconic sites like Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Naseem Bagh, and Chinar Bagh are thronged with tourists, who delight in these mesmerising vistas and capture photographs amid the breathtaking beauty.&nbsp;''I don't think any words can describe the beauty of this place. You can only feel it and enjoy it. I won't have any words except to call it heaven on earth. This is the real Paradise. It's much better than what we have seen in the movies. The real feel here is just outstanding, '' said Karan Maan, a Tourist.&nbsp;Many tourists arrive in Kashmir having only read about autumn, never truly experiencing its magic. Unlike the rest of India, which lacks four distinct seasons, the Kashmir Valley paints a vivid spectacle each fall.&nbsp;"I've never witnessed anything more breathtaking in my life. Kashmir's beauty surpasses every place I've travelled and I've seen the world. I don't want to leave; with just a few days left, I'm already dreading departure. The landscapes are mesmerising, and the people here are incredibly warm and caring. The hospitality is truly unmatched," said Arif, a Tourist.&nbsp;&nbsp;As autumn in Srinagar draws to a close with the season's first snowfall, the higher reaches have already been blanketed in white. The Meteorological Department forecasts snow across the plains this November, ushering in winter's serene embrace.



The world-renowned Mughal gardens of Kashmir welcome visitors with a vibrant red carpet of majestic Chinar trees, set against the stunning backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills. 

The Kashmir Valley bursts into a vivid crimson during autumn, a magical transformation that draws thousands of tourists from across India and around the world. The majestic Chinar trees appear adorned in layered hues of red and gold, evoking scenes straight out of Bollywood films. The world-renowned Mughal gardens of Kashmir welcome visitors with a vibrant red carpet of majestic Chinar trees, set against the stunning backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills. Iconic sites like Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Naseem Bagh, and Chinar Bagh are thronged with tourists, who delight in these mesmerising vistas and capture photographs amid the breathtaking beauty. ''I don't think any words can describe the beauty of this place. You can only feel it and enjoy it. I won't have any words except to call it heaven on earth. This is the real Paradise. It's much better than what we have seen in the movies. The real feel here is just outstanding, '' said Karan Maan, a Tourist. Many tourists arrive in Kashmir having only read about autumn, never truly experiencing its magic. Unlike the rest of India, which lacks four distinct seasons, the Kashmir Valley paints a vivid spectacle each fall. "I've never witnessed anything more breathtaking in my life. Kashmir's beauty surpasses every place I've travelled and I've seen the world. I don't want to leave; with just a few days left, I'm already dreading departure. The landscapes are mesmerising, and the people here are incredibly warm and caring. The hospitality is truly unmatched," said Arif, a Tourist. As autumn in Srinagar draws to a close with the season's first snowfall, the higher reaches have already been blanketed in white. The Meteorological Department forecasts snow across the plains this November, ushering in winter's serene embrace.

The world-renowned Mughal gardens of Kashmir welcome visitors with a vibrant red carpet of majestic Chinar trees, set against the stunning backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills.&nbsp;

Kashmir's chinar trees ignite in crimson glory: Autumn magic draws tourists to Mughal gardens

As voting got underway in 121 constituencies in the first phase of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections on Thursday, political attention once again turned to the seats that defined the razor-thin verdict of 2020. That election was one of the tightest in Bihar’s history, with several constituencies decided by margins of less than a thousand votes, contests so close that a handful of ballots separated victory from defeat.&nbsp;<h2>Narrowest margins, widest implications</h2>&nbsp;In 2020, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats, followed closely by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with 74. The Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] won 43, while NDA allies Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) secured four each. Eleven seats across districts such as Nalanda, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Begusarai, Khagaria, Sheikhpura, Kaimur, Rohtas, and Jamui were decided by fewer than 1,000 votes, making them some of the most scrutinised battlegrounds again this year.&nbsp;JD(U) candidates had the narrowest escapes in four seats, Hilsa, Barbigha, Parbatta, and Bhore, while the BJP managed to hold on to Bachhwara and Bakhri by similarly slim margins. The RJD and the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) also managed one nail-biting win each. In total, 52 constituencies across the state were decided by fewer than 5,000 votes, according to Election Commission data. Of these, the RJD took 15, JD(U) 13, and the BJP 9.&nbsp;<h2>Constituencies where every vote counted</h2>&nbsp;The tightest race of 2020 came in Hilsa, Nalanda, where JD(U)’s Krishnamurari Sharan defeated RJD’s Shakti Singh Yadav by just 12 votes, one of the narrowest margins ever recorded in Bihar. Both contestants are in the fray again this year, keeping the contest under the spotlight, especially as Hilsa lies in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s home district.&nbsp;In Sheikhpura’s Barbigha seat, JD(U)’s Sudarshan Kumar won by only 113 votes but was later expelled and now contests as an Independent. His party has fielded Dr Pushpanjay in his place. Begusarai’s Matihani saw LJP’s Rajkumar Singh win by 333 votes; he has since joined the JD(U) and is again a key contender. Another tight finish came in Bhore, where JD(U)’s Sunil Kumar edged out CPI(ML)’s Jitendra Paswan by 462 votes.&nbsp;BJP’s Surendra Mehta secured Bachhwara by just 484 votes over CPI’s Awadhesh Kumar Rai, while in Bakhri, CPI’s Suryakant Paswan defeated BJP’s Ramshankar Paswan by 777 votes. In Muzaffarpur’s Kurhani, RJD’s Anil Sahni beat BJP’s Kedar Prasad Gupta by 712 votes, though Gupta later reclaimed the seat in a 2022 by-election. Independent Sumit Kumar Singh won Chakia by 581 votes and subsequently joined the JD(U), while in Parbatta, JD(U)’s Dr Sanjeev Kumar beat RJD’s Digambar Tiwari by 951 votes but is now contesting on an RJD ticket.&nbsp;<h2>Battlegrounds that still shape 2025</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The narrow victories of 2020 continue to influence Bihar’s political equations. Many of those marginal constituencies are part of the current Phase 1 polling, making them crucial indicators of voter mood. With the same candidates often facing off once more, and margins in double or triple digits last time, even minor shifts in turnout or alliances could alter results.&nbsp;As the 2025 election unfolds, these finely balanced battlegrounds are expected to test party strategies and voter loyalties alike. If 2020 proved anything, it is that in Bihar, the difference between forming the government and sitting in opposition can come down to just a few hundred votes. &nbsp;

In 2020, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats, followed closely by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with 74. The Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] won 43, while NDA allies Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) secured four each

As voting got underway in 121 constituencies in the first phase of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections on Thursday, political attention once again turned to the seats that defined the razor-thin verdict of 2020. That election was one of the tightest in Bihar’s history, with several constituencies decided by margins of less than a thousand votes, contests so close that a handful of ballots separated victory from defeat. Narrowest margins, widest implications In 2020, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats, followed closely by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with 74. The Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] won 43, while NDA allies Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) secured four each. Eleven seats across districts such as Nalanda, Muzaffarpur, Gopalganj, Begusarai, Khagaria, Sheikhpura, Kaimur, Rohtas, and Jamui were decided by fewer than 1,000 votes, making them some of the most scrutinised battlegrounds again this year. JD(U) candidates had the narrowest escapes in four seats, Hilsa, Barbigha, Parbatta, and Bhore, while the BJP managed to hold on to Bachhwara and Bakhri by similarly slim margins. The RJD and the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) also managed one nail-biting win each. In total, 52 constituencies across the state were decided by fewer than 5,000 votes, according to Election Commission data. Of these, the RJD took 15, JD(U) 13, and the BJP 9. Constituencies where every vote counted The tightest race of 2020 came in Hilsa, Nalanda, where JD(U)’s Krishnamurari Sharan defeated RJD’s Shakti Singh Yadav by just 12 votes, one of the narrowest margins ever recorded in Bihar. Both contestants are in the fray again this year, keeping the contest under the spotlight, especially as Hilsa lies in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s home district. In Sheikhpura’s Barbigha seat, JD(U)’s Sudarshan Kumar won by only 113 votes but was later expelled and now contests as an Independent. His party has fielded Dr Pushpanjay in his place. Begusarai’s Matihani saw LJP’s Rajkumar Singh win by 333 votes; he has since joined the JD(U) and is again a key contender. Another tight finish came in Bhore, where JD(U)’s Sunil Kumar edged out CPI(ML)’s Jitendra Paswan by 462 votes. BJP’s Surendra Mehta secured Bachhwara by just 484 votes over CPI’s Awadhesh Kumar Rai, while in Bakhri, CPI’s Suryakant Paswan defeated BJP’s Ramshankar Paswan by 777 votes. In Muzaffarpur’s Kurhani, RJD’s Anil Sahni beat BJP’s Kedar Prasad Gupta by 712 votes, though Gupta later reclaimed the seat in a 2022 by-election. Independent Sumit Kumar Singh won Chakia by 581 votes and subsequently joined the JD(U), while in Parbatta, JD(U)’s Dr Sanjeev Kumar beat RJD’s Digambar Tiwari by 951 votes but is now contesting on an RJD ticket. Battlegrounds that still shape 2025 The narrow victories of 2020 continue to influence Bihar’s political equations. Many of those marginal constituencies are part of the current Phase 1 polling, making them crucial indicators of voter mood. With the same candidates often facing off once more, and margins in double or triple digits last time, even minor shifts in turnout or alliances could alter results. As the 2025 election unfolds, these finely balanced battlegrounds are expected to test party strategies and voter loyalties alike. If 2020 proved anything, it is that in Bihar, the difference between forming the government and sitting in opposition can come down to just a few hundred votes.

In 2020, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) emerged as the single largest party with 75 seats, followed closely by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with 74. The Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)] won 43, while NDA allies Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) and Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) secured four each

Bihar Elections 2025 Phase 1: A look back at closely fought contests and key battlegrounds of 2020

Amid phase 1 voting in Bihar, Deputy Chief Minister and BJP candidate from Lakhisarai, Vijay Kumar Sinha's car was attacked by goons - which he claimed were supporters of Lalu Prasad Yadav's RJD. Visuals showed many men surrounding and blocking the way of Vijay Kumar Sinha's car. &nbsp;Police personnel were present at the spot. Hitting out at them, Sinha claimed that NDA government will be re-elected in the state and then these men will be given "bulldozer" treatment. Slamming the police forces, Sinha spoke to Superintendent of Police (SP) and said that the goons hurled stones and cow dung at him. He also claimed that these people threatened poll officer in the constituency. In another video shared by Indian news agency ANI, people were heard shouting "murdabad" slogans and blocking the car of the deputy CM.&nbsp;“I am here at the village. The crowd is coming closer. Send Special Force here. I will sit here in protest. The SP is so weak and a crowd. They are not letting the Deputy CM go in. These are RJD goons. Look at their hooliganism even when they have not come to power...They threatened my polling agent and turned him away at 6.30 am itself. They are not letting voters come out,” Sinha alleged.

Arpit Anand, BDO of Halsi said, "SDM and other senior officials will reach the spot soon. Necessary actions will be taken by them." Sinha's car is seen hurled slippers, pelted stones and cow dung and chanted "Murdabad", as he visited Khoriari village in his constituency. The Deputy CM spoke to SP on the phone following the incident.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BiharElection2025?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BiharElection2025</a> | RJD supporters surround Deputy CM and BJP candidate from Lakhisarai constituency, Vijay Kumar Sinha's car, hurl slippers and chant "Murdabad", forbidding him from going ahead. Police personnel present here. Visuals from Lakhisarai. <a href="https://t.co/qthw0QWL7G">pic.twitter.com/qthw0QWL7G</a>— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1986351582179696904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>RJD claims deliberate slow voting at booths with voters supporting RJD, Mahagathbandhan</h2>Meanwhile, RJD claimed that slow voting was being conducted deliberately at booths in RJD strongholds. RJD also claimes power cuts in these booths. “Information is being received from several booths in various assembly constituencies of Bihar that the administration is deliberately conducting slow voting at booths with voters supporting RJD and the Mahagathbandhan,” RJD wrote on X. “The Election Commission should maintain the sanctity and impartiality of the electoral process and take prompt action against the officials involved in such illegal activities, it added. However, the Election Commission refuted the claims as “baseless.”

During Phase 1 voting in Bihar, Dy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha’s car was attacked in Lakhisarai by alleged RJD supporters. Stones, slippers, and cow dung were hurled at his vehicle. Sinha accused police of inaction, claimed his polling agent was threatened, and warned of “bulldozer” after NDA’s win.

Amid phase 1 voting in Bihar, Deputy Chief Minister and BJP candidate from Lakhisarai, Vijay Kumar Sinha's car was attacked by goons - which he claimed were supporters of Lalu Prasad Yadav's RJD. Visuals showed many men surrounding and blocking the way of Vijay Kumar Sinha's car. Police personnel were present at the spot. Hitting out at them, Sinha claimed that NDA government will be re-elected in the state and then these men will be given "bulldozer" treatment. Slamming the police forces, Sinha spoke to Superintendent of Police (SP) and said that the goons hurled stones and cow dung at him. He also claimed that these people threatened poll officer in the constituency. In another video shared by Indian news agency ANI, people were heard shouting "murdabad" slogans and blocking the car of the deputy CM. “I am here at the village. The crowd is coming closer. Send Special Force here. I will sit here in protest. The SP is so weak and a crowd. They are not letting the Deputy CM go in. These are RJD goons. Look at their hooliganism even when they have not come to power...They threatened my polling agent and turned him away at 6.30 am itself. They are not letting voters come out,” Sinha alleged.

During Phase 1 voting in Bihar, Dy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha’s car was attacked in Lakhisarai by alleged RJD supporters. Stones, slippers, and cow dung were hurled at his vehicle. Sinha accused police of inaction, claimed his polling agent was threatened, and warned of “bulldozer” after NDA’s win.

Bihar Elections 2025 | 'They hurled stones, cow dung': Deputy CM allegedly heckled by RJD supporters - Video

Indian Member of Parliament made a sensational claim on Nov 5 and said that a Brazilian model appeared 22 times across polling booths in Haryana under various names such as Seema, Sweety and Saraswati. Soon after his claims went viral, the Brazilian model identified as 'Larrisa' posted a video about it. In her first reaction, she expresses her disbelief over the incident. Speaking in Portuguese, she said that her image when she was 18 or 20 years old is being used in India for 'scam.'&nbsp;"Guys, do you have the photo? I look terrible. No, like, I’ll put the photo myself. Are you using an old photo of mine? My photo is old, okay? I was so young in that photo, like 20, 18 years old. You’re using my photo to do… I don’t even know if it’s some election thing, something people have to vote for. And… in India! They’re making me look like I’m Indian to scam people." She continued, “What kind of craziness is this? What kind of world are we living in?" They are using a photo of mine to run, I don't know if it's an election, something where you have to vote. And in India, they are portraying me as an Indian woman to scam others, folks," she added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The Brazilian Model Larissa responds to <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> Vote Chori allegation using her pictures in the press conference. She seems surprised 🔔 I have added subtitles (since she spoke in Portuguese) 🔥🔥🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FI</a> <a href="https://t.co/1T6YZc0KId">pic.twitter.com/1T6YZc0KId</a>&mdash; Fundamental Investor ™ 🇮🇳 (@FI_InvestIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/FI_InvestIndia/status/1986125990519840826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What were Rahul Gandhi's claims?</h2>Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi doubling down on his election fraud allegations, accused the Election Commission and the BJP of “colluding to ensure Congress lost in Haryana”. He said that the Brazilian model’s photo was used in 10 booths to enable fake voters to cast fraudulent votes. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday (Nov 5), Gandhi alleged that '25 lakh votes were stolen' in Haryana and cited an example of a woman whose photograph, actually belonging to a Brazilian model, appeared 22 times in the state’s voter rolls. “Who is this lady? What is her name? Where does she come from? But she votes 22 times in Haryana, at 10 different booths, and has multiple names: Seema, Sweety, Saraswati, Rashmi, Vilma... But turns out she is actually a Brazilian model,” he alleged. "This lady gets to vote 100 times in Haryana if she feels like. This is to create space so that anybody can vote, so that BJP people can move, come from other states and vote," Gandhi asserted. The leader of the opposition displayed another woman's photograph and claimed she featured 223 times in the voter list of two polling booths.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">ये कौन हैं?? कभी सीमा, कभी स्वीटी, कभी सरस्वती... जब ब्राजील की मॉडल के नाम से हरियाणा में 10 अलग-अलग जगह वोट डाले जा सकते हैं, तो ये आसानी से समझा जा सकता है कि ये चुनाव नहीं, दिन दहाड़े डकैती हो रही है... <a href="https://t.co/8uzqlyDUVb">pic.twitter.com/8uzqlyDUVb</a>&mdash; Shilpi Yadav शिल्पी यादव (@ShilpiYlucknow) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShilpiYlucknow/status/1986008209736491290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Rahul Gandhi alleged massive voter fraud in Haryana, claiming a Brazilian model’s photo appeared 22 times under fake names to enable bogus voting. The model, Larissa, reacted in disbelief, saying her old photos were misused in India. Gandhi accused the BJP and EC of collusion.

Indian Member of Parliament made a sensational claim on Nov 5 and said that a Brazilian model appeared 22 times across polling booths in Haryana under various names such as Seema, Sweety and Saraswati. Soon after his claims went viral, the Brazilian model identified as 'Larrisa' posted a video about it. In her first reaction, she expresses her disbelief over the incident. Speaking in Portuguese, she said that her image when she was 18 or 20 years old is being used in India for 'scam.' "Guys, do you have the photo? I look terrible. No, like, I’ll put the photo myself. Are you using an old photo of mine? My photo is old, okay? I was so young in that photo, like 20, 18 years old. You’re using my photo to do… I don’t even know if it’s some election thing, something people have to vote for. And… in India! They’re making me look like I’m Indian to scam people." She continued, “What kind of craziness is this? What kind of world are we living in?" They are using a photo of mine to run, I don't know if it's an election, something where you have to vote. And in India, they are portraying me as an Indian woman to scam others, folks," she added.

Rahul Gandhi alleged massive voter fraud in Haryana, claiming a Brazilian model’s photo appeared 22 times under fake names to enable bogus voting. The model, Larissa, reacted in disbelief, saying her old photos were misused in India. Gandhi accused the BJP and EC of collusion.

'To scam others': Brazilian model reacts after Rahul Gandhi claims her photo appeared '22 times' in Haryana voter list

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused RJD and Congress of “jungle raj”, urging them to cast votes in large numbers for the NDA in an address at a rally in Araria on Thursday (Nov 5). He also said that infiltrators remain a major challenge in the state, accusing his opponents of “protecting infiltrators”. This comes as the first phase of the voting takes place in several districts of the state.&nbsp;“Today, the first phase of voting is taking place to develop Bihar. Stunning pictures are coming from different corners of Bihar on social media. Long lines have been forming at polling stations since the morning. &nbsp;Mothers, sisters, and daughters are coming out in large numbers to vote. There is unprecedented enthusiasm among the youth of Bihar as well. I congratulate all the voters. I appeal to the people to come out and cast their votes...,” PM Modi said.&nbsp;“Today, I am telling you about the power of your vote. Your grandparents, maternal grandparents’ one vote had made Bihar the land of social justice. But then, the 90s decade came, and RJD’s jungle raj attacked Bihar. Jungle Raj means - pistol, cruelty, corruption and misgovernance. These became the identity of jungle raj, and this became Bihar’s misfortune. Your parents’ dreams were crushed,” PM Modi added.&nbsp;<h2>RJD, Congress ‘protecting infiltrators’</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi also accused the two parties of protecting infiltrators. He said that infiltrators remain a major challenge in the state, adding that the NDA government is working to identify and deport each infiltrator from the country.&nbsp;“A very major challenge stands before these efforts of ours. That challenge is of the infiltrators. The NDA government is engaged with complete honesty in identifying each and every infiltrator and deporting them from the country. But these RJD and Congress people are busy protecting the infiltrators. They spread all sorts of lies to save these infiltrators, and take out political tours to mislead the people,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused RJD and Congress of “jungle raj”, urging them to vote for the NDA government in an address at a rally in Araria on Thursday (Nov 5).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused RJD and Congress of “jungle raj”, urging them to cast votes in large numbers for the NDA in an address at a rally in Araria on Thursday (Nov 5). He also said that infiltrators remain a major challenge in the state, accusing his opponents of “protecting infiltrators”. This comes as the first phase of the voting takes place in several districts of the state. “Today, the first phase of voting is taking place to develop Bihar. Stunning pictures are coming from different corners of Bihar on social media. Long lines have been forming at polling stations since the morning. Mothers, sisters, and daughters are coming out in large numbers to vote. There is unprecedented enthusiasm among the youth of Bihar as well. I congratulate all the voters. I appeal to the people to come out and cast their votes...,” PM Modi said. “Today, I am telling you about the power of your vote. Your grandparents, maternal grandparents’ one vote had made Bihar the land of social justice. But then, the 90s decade came, and RJD’s jungle raj attacked Bihar. Jungle Raj means - pistol, cruelty, corruption and misgovernance. These became the identity of jungle raj, and this became Bihar’s misfortune. Your parents’ dreams were crushed,” PM Modi added. RJD, Congress ‘protecting infiltrators’ PM Modi also accused the two parties of protecting infiltrators. He said that infiltrators remain a major challenge in the state, adding that the NDA government is working to identify and deport each infiltrator from the country. “A very major challenge stands before these efforts of ours. That challenge is of the infiltrators. The NDA government is engaged with complete honesty in identifying each and every infiltrator and deporting them from the country. But these RJD and Congress people are busy protecting the infiltrators. They spread all sorts of lies to save these infiltrators, and take out political tours to mislead the people,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused RJD and Congress of “jungle raj”, urging them to vote for the NDA government in an address at a rally in Araria on Thursday (Nov 5).

‘Jungle raj destroyed Bihar’: PM Modi attacks RJD, Congress in Araria, accuses them of ‘protecting infiltrators’

Voting for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections commences on Thursday (November 6, 2025) across 121 constituencies from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This election phase will play a significant role in determining the fate of several candidates eyeing for seat in the state legislative assembly.&nbsp;The first phase of the election covers 17 districts, including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Madhepura, Saharsa, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Sheikhpura, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Nalanda, Buxar, and Bhojpur.<h3>Are schools closed in Bihar today?</h3>Due to the Bihar election, all schools and colleges across the state will remain closed today. The move is intended to ensure smooth polling operations without any disruption from educational activities, as most of the polling is done in state government schools.<h3>Are banking services open in Bihar today?</h3>Banks in Bihar will also observe a holiday today as per the directive of the Reserve Bank of India. However, digital banking services will continue to function, allowing customers to complete necessary transactions while participating in the election.<h3>Are government offices closed in Bihar?</h3>Yes, government offices will also be closed today due to the assembly election. It will enable public sector employees to cast their votes freely without losing pay or facing penalties.&nbsp;Additionally, the Election Commission (EC) has directed employers to provide paid leave to workers on polling day to encourage maximum voter participation and safeguard the democratic process.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Bihar assembly election a “celebration of democracy” and requested the people to cast their vote in large numbers. “Today marks the first phase of the celebration of democracy in Bihar. I urge all voters to cast their votes with full enthusiasm,” he said in a post on X. He also applauded first-time voters, and reminded them that, “First vote, then refreshments!”.&nbsp;Voting for the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections is set to be held on November 11, which will cover the remaining 122 seats. The results of all phases will be announced on November 14, deciding the political future of Bihar.

The first phase of the election covers 17 districts, which include Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Madhepura, Saharsa, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Sheikhpura, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Nalanda, Buxar, and Bhojpur.

Voting for the first phase of the Bihar Assembly elections commences on Thursday (November 6, 2025) across 121 constituencies from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This election phase will play a significant role in determining the fate of several candidates eyeing for seat in the state legislative assembly. The first phase of the election covers 17 districts, including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Madhepura, Saharsa, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Sheikhpura, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Nalanda, Buxar, and Bhojpur. Are schools closed in Bihar today? Due to the Bihar election, all schools and colleges across the state will remain closed today. The move is intended to ensure smooth polling operations without any disruption from educational activities, as most of the polling is done in state government schools. Are banking services open in Bihar today? Banks in Bihar will also observe a holiday today as per the directive of the Reserve Bank of India. However, digital banking services will continue to function, allowing customers to complete necessary transactions while participating in the election. Are government offices closed in Bihar? Yes, government offices will also be closed today due to the assembly election. It will enable public sector employees to cast their votes freely without losing pay or facing penalties. Additionally, the Election Commission (EC) has directed employers to provide paid leave to workers on polling day to encourage maximum voter participation and safeguard the democratic process. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Bihar assembly election a “celebration of democracy” and requested the people to cast their vote in large numbers. “Today marks the first phase of the celebration of democracy in Bihar. I urge all voters to cast their votes with full enthusiasm,” he said in a post on X. He also applauded first-time voters, and reminded them that, “First vote, then refreshments!”. Voting for the second phase of the Bihar Assembly elections is set to be held on November 11, which will cover the remaining 122 seats. The results of all phases will be announced on November 14, deciding the political future of Bihar.

The first phase of the election covers 17 districts, which include Patna, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Madhepura, Saharsa, Gopalganj, Siwan, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Sheikhpura, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Nalanda, Buxar, and Bhojpur.

Bihar Election 2025: Are schools, banks and offices open on polling day? Check here

The first phase of voting for the Bihar Elections 2025 has started on Thursday (Nov 6), with 121 of 243 seats polling. According to the Election Commission, the approximate voter turnout at 5 pm stood at &nbsp;60.13 per cent. The highest voter turnout was observed in Begusarai (59.82 per cent), followed by Muzaffarpur (58.40 per cent) and Gopalganj (58.17 per cent). The lowest voter turnout was recorded in Patna (48.69 per cent).As the first phase of polling takes place, tight security remains at all polling stations. Bihar Chief Secretary Pratyay Amrit said that no untoward incident has been reported anywhere in the state till now.“As per information received till now, no untoward incident has been reported anywhere. Bihar has always set an example, and we will conduct this election well,” he said. “It is a very important day, and I have come here along with my family to cast my vote. I appeal to the voters to exercise their right to vote…”Some key figures and constituencies in the first phase of the voting include Tejashwi Yadav (Raghopur), Tej Pratap Yadav (Mahua), Maithili Thakur (Alinagar), Samrat Choudhary (Tarapur), Anant Singh (Mokama), Khesari Lal Yadav (Chhapra), Osama Shahab (Raghunathpur), Vijay Kumar Sinha (Lakhisarai), and Shivani Shukla (Lalganj).<h2>PM Modi accuses RJD, Congress of ‘jangal raj’</h2>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Nov 6) accused RJD and Congress of “jungle raj”, urging them to cast votes in large numbers for the NDA in an address at a rally in Araria. He also said that infiltrators remain a major challenge in the state, accusing his opponents of “protecting infiltrators”.&nbsp;“Today, I am telling you about the power of your vote. Your grandparents, maternal grandparents’ one vote had made Bihar the land of social justice. But then, the 90s decade came, and RJD’s jungle raj attacked Bihar. Jungle Raj means - pistol, cruelty, corruption and misgovernance. These became the identity of jungle raj, and this became Bihar’s misfortune. Your parents’ dreams were crushed,” PM Modi said.&nbsp;

The highest voter turnout was observed in Begusarai (59.82 per cent), followed by Muzaffarpur (58.40 per cent) and Gopalganj (58.17 per cent). The lowest voter turnout was recorded in Patna (48.69 per cent).

The first phase of voting for the Bihar Elections 2025 has started on Thursday (Nov 6), with 121 of 243 seats polling. According to the Election Commission, the approximate voter turnout at 5 pm stood at 60.13 per cent. The highest voter turnout was observed in Begusarai (59.82 per cent), followed by Muzaffarpur (58.40 per cent) and Gopalganj (58.17 per cent). The lowest voter turnout was recorded in Patna (48.69 per cent). As the first phase of polling takes place, tight security remains at all polling stations. Bihar Chief Secretary Pratyay Amrit said that no untoward incident has been reported anywhere in the state till now. “As per information received till now, no untoward incident has been reported anywhere. Bihar has always set an example, and we will conduct this election well,” he said. “It is a very important day, and I have come here along with my family to cast my vote. I appeal to the voters to exercise their right to vote…” Some key figures and constituencies in the first phase of the voting include Tejashwi Yadav (Raghopur), Tej Pratap Yadav (Mahua), Maithili Thakur (Alinagar), Samrat Choudhary (Tarapur), Anant Singh (Mokama), Khesari Lal Yadav (Chhapra), Osama Shahab (Raghunathpur), Vijay Kumar Sinha (Lakhisarai), and Shivani Shukla (Lalganj). PM Modi accuses RJD, Congress of ‘jangal raj’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Nov 6) accused RJD and Congress of “jungle raj”, urging them to cast votes in large numbers for the NDA in an address at a rally in Araria. He also said that infiltrators remain a major challenge in the state, accusing his opponents of “protecting infiltrators”. “Today, I am telling you about the power of your vote. Your grandparents, maternal grandparents’ one vote had made Bihar the land of social justice. But then, the 90s decade came, and RJD’s jungle raj attacked Bihar. Jungle Raj means - pistol, cruelty, corruption and misgovernance. These became the identity of jungle raj, and this became Bihar’s misfortune. Your parents’ dreams were crushed,” PM Modi said.

The highest voter turnout was observed in Begusarai (59.82 per cent), followed by Muzaffarpur (58.40 per cent) and Gopalganj (58.17 per cent). The lowest voter turnout was recorded in Patna (48.69 per cent).

Bihar Election 2025 Phase 1: Voter turnout stands at 60.13% till 5 pm

The first phase of Bihar Elections 2025 were held today with 121 of 243 seats polling. The second phase is on November 11. The election results will be announced on November 14. Key contests in the first phase include Tejashwi Yadav in Raghopur, Tej Pratap in Mahua, Maithili Thakur in Alinagar, and Anant Singh in Mokama. NDA, INDIA bloc, and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj are the main contenders.In 2020 state polls, the BJP-JDU alliance defeated the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan with a narrow margin. The BJP-JDU alliance won 125 seats (BJP 74, JDU 42, others 9), while the RJD won 75, Congress 19, and others 16. Although JDU was the junior partner in the alliance with fewer seats in its kitty, Nitish Kumar ended up being the Chief Minister of the state, for the seventh time. However, midway through his term, he did what most people expected the most from him! He shifted his allegiance and joined the Mahagathbandhan in 2022, taking oath as CM for the eighth term. This time, Kumar became instrumental in forming yet another anti-BJP grouping - the INDIA alliance, only to exit it in 2024. He patched up with the BJP and became the CM again and took oath for the ninth time.Ahead of the Bihar Elections 2025, Nitish Kumar has vowed not to shift sides "ever again." The BJP is yet again rowing its boat with Nitish as its oarsman. The Mahagathbandhan is hesitant to project RJD's Tejashwi Yadav as its CM face, despite his commendable performance in the 2020 state elections. This time, the elder Lalu Yadav scion, Tej Pratap Yadav, is not with RJD anymore and has formed his own Janshakti Janta Dal. In the fray is also Prashant Kishore's Jan Suraaj - Delhi media's current favourite and man credited for the victory of many politicians in the country, from PM Modi to Mamata Banerjee. In NDA, there's Modi's ‘Hanuman’ - Union Chirag Paswan - His Lok Janshakti Party has not shied away from expressing its desire for the top post in the state. Apart from regional players like Mukesh Sahni’s VIP party, Paswan's uncle Pashupati Paras, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustan Awami Morcha, there's Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM - whose party won a whopping five seats in the Seemanchal region last elections.

Bihar Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Gunjyal said that polling was boycotted in certain booths in Buxar, Fatuha and Suryagarha, according to PTI.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: Polling was boycotted in certain booths: Bihar CEO

Bihar Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Gunjyal said that 143 complaints were received today and all of them were resolved on time."By the end of voting, 143 complaints were received. All were resolved on time. Furthermore, all complaints received directly by phone were resolved on time. Information about boycotts was also received at some polling stations, including polling station number 56 in the Brahmapur assembly constituency of Buxar district, polling stations number 165 and 166 in the Fatuha assembly constituency, and polling stations number 1, 2, and 5 in Suryagarha, near Lakhisarai... No untoward incidents have been reported in the first phase of voting that concluded today. Voting was conducted peacefully and smoothly," he added.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: 143 complaints were received today, says Bihar CEO

Bihar Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjiyal shared the data of first phase of polling during a press conference.He said that the voting percentage as of now is 64.46 % and the final figure will come in an hour, and the women voted in large numbers.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: Final figure to come within an hour, says Bihar CEC

"Highest polling in the last 30 years indicates that change is coming to Bihar. A new system is going to be established on the 14th (November)..." Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor told ANI.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: Prashant Kishor says highest polling in 30 yrs indicate change

The Chief Electoral Officer, Bihar, has announced a press conference at 7:30 pm on Thursday, following the completion of the first phase of polling for the Bihar Assembly Elections.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: CEO, Bihar to address a press briefing at 7:30pm

According to the Election Commission of India, Bihar is poised to achieve the highest voter turnout in the state’s history.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: Bihar poised to achieve highest voter turnout, says ECI

Voting for the phase 1 of the Bihar Assembly concluded at 6 pm across 121 constituencies in 18 districts.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: Polling ends in phase 1 of election

VIP chief and Mahagathbandhan's deputy CM face Mukesh Sahani tells ANI: "There is a wave of change in Bihar. There is bumper voting happening. I hope that there will be a change in Bihar. A Mahagathbandhan government will be formed."

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: Bumper voting happening: VIP chief Mukesh Sahani

EVMs are being sealed by polling officials as the voting for the first phase of the Bihar elections concludes in Tarapur.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: EVMs sealed in Tarapur

60.13 per cent approximate voter turnout recorded in the first phase of Bihar Election 2025, till 5 pm, ANI reported.&nbsp;

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: 60.13% approximate voter turnout 

Janshakti Janata Dal (JJD) founder Tej Pratap Yadav said his party would emerge as a "serious political force" after the Bihar elections.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: JJD will emerge as serious political force after polls: Tej Pratap Yadav

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday alleged that the NDA was "preparing to steal" the assembly polls in Bihar, “just like they did in Haryana”, PTI reported.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: NDA preparing to steal Bihar polls just like Haryana: Priyanka Gandhi 

Addressing a poll rally in Bihar's Madhubani Union home minister Amit Shah says, "PM Modi has made the country safe. The PFI (Popular Front of India) even reached Phulwarisharif. It was an anti-national organisation... Tell me, should PFI be banned or not? PM Modi put everyone from PFI behind bars from Kerala to Phulwarisharif. Lalu says they should be released. Lalu ji, they will never be released, remember my words."

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE: PM Modi made the country safe, says Amit Shah

Approximately 53.77 per cent voter turnout in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly Election 2025 till 3 PM, based on data released by the Election Commission of India.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | 53.77 % voter turnout in the first phase of the assembly election till 3 PM

After casting his vote, Educator Khan Sir told news agency ANI, "The people should vote keeping in mind their candidate and the issues of education, development, healthcare, employment, safety and security in mind. A vote is a very powerful thing. I appeal to the youth to vote."

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | 'People should vote keeping in mind their candidate': Educator Khan Sir after casting his vote

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | Purnea, Bihar | &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BiharElection2025?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#BiharElection2025&lt;/a&gt; | Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says, &amp;quot;Bihar needs to progress again. The world&amp;#39;s best universities and hospitals should be established in Bihar. Bihar should become a global tourism and industrial hub. But Prime Minister… &lt;a href="https://t.co/ydxBO3CxiZ"&gt;pic.twitter.com/ydxBO3CxiZ&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1986371489051124190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;November 6, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | Nitish Kumar remotely controlled by PM Modi, says Rahul Gandhi

Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha spoke to SP on the phone and said, "I am here at the village. The crowd is coming closer. Send Special Force here. I will sit here in protest. The SP is so weak and a cword. They are not letting the Deputy CM go in. They have hurled stones and cow dung." He says, "These are RJD goons. Look at their hooliganism, even when they have not come to power...They threatened my polling agent and turned him away at 6.30 am itself. They are not letting voters come out."

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | ‘RJD goons showing hooliganism even before coming to power’: Deputy CM Vijay Sinha alleges attack in Lakhisarai

Bihar Deputy CM and BJP candidate from Lakhisarai constituency, Vijay Kumar Sinha, was surrounded by RJD supporters and pelted with slippers in Lakhisarai. They also chanted "Murdabad" and barred him from proceeding. During the incident, police personnel were also present, according to the news agency ANI.

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | RJD supporters target Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Sinha with slippers, chant ‘murdabad’

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BiharElection2025?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#BiharElection2025&lt;/a&gt; | Bhojpur: After casting his vote, actor-singer and BJP leader Pawan Singh says, &amp;quot;I voted for development. I urge the people of Bihar to step out of your house and vote for development.&amp;quot; &lt;a href="https://t.co/5Bin2gaykg"&gt;pic.twitter.com/5Bin2gaykg&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1986289736311578760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;November 6, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | 'I voted for development': actor-singer and BJP leader Pawan Singh after casting his vote

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;&lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#WATCH&lt;/a&gt; | Patna | Bihar Assembly speaker Nand Kishore Yadav cast his vote at a polling booth in Patna Sahib Assembly Constituency &lt;a href="https://t.co/hrTbvHDwaC"&gt;pic.twitter.com/hrTbvHDwaC&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1986332082113777668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;November 6, 2025&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | Bihar Assembly speaker Nand Kishore Yadav cast his vote at a polling booth in Patna Sahib Assembly Constituency

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said, "When I was 10-12 years old, I saw a woman in Amethi scold my father. She said, 'tum Rajiv Bhaiya toh ho hamare, Pradhan Mantri hoge lekin aapne bola tha hamare yaha nal (tap) lagaoge par lagaya nahi abhi tak, hum dobara vote nahi denge aapko'... He was the Prime Minister of the country, but a woman in a village scolded him; she was not scared. Nowadays, everyone has to fear. If you ask for your rights, you know the police will beat you and the administration will shut you down. That was not the time. The foundation of our country's politics was laid by Mahatma Gandhi, in which the people are supreme."

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra claims everyone 'everyone has to fear' now

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “You have seen the RJD government in action in Bihar. For the past 20 years, you have been witnessing a government led by Nitish Kumar... Some might argue that although more work was done during Nitish Kumar's tenure, a little more would have been better. But no one can deny that if anyone has worked to make Bihar a progressive state and a state moving towards a developed India, it has been under the leadership of CM Nitish Kumar... I can confidently say that no matter who has been his opponent in the last 20 years, no one can point a finger at Nitish Kumar and say that he has done any corruption... During the RJD's rule, goons and criminals were rampant throughout... Everyone felt insecure. If anyone has destroyed the fame that Bihar,... it is the RJD... During the RJD's rule, goons and criminals were dominant and they openly roamed around with guns... Does RJD want to create a similar situation in Bihar again?... The conditions were such that if a person walked on the road after 5.00 pm, he would be terrified... But today, you can say with confidence that if you go somewhere outside Bihar, you can say, ‘Come see our NDA-ruled Bihar, our developed Bihar…’”

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attacks RJD at rally

Addressing an election rally in Ramnagar, Bettiah, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Tell me, whether or not, we should eliminate names of Bangladeshis from the voter's list? Four months ago, Rahul Baba started &nbsp;'Ghuspetiya Bachchao Yatra', and stated that Bangladeshi infiltrators should remain on our voters' list. I want to ask -should Bangladeshi infiltrators decide who will be the CM? No matter how many press conferences you (Rahul Gandhi) hold, the BJP will work to remove every infiltrator from the country."

Bihar Polls Phase 1 LIVE | Amit Shah says 'BJP will remove every infiltrator from country'

Bihar Elections 2025 Phase 1 begins today with 121 seats polling. Key contests: Tejashwi (Raghopur), Tej Pratap (Mahua), Maithili Thakur (Alinagar), Anant Singh (Mokama). NDA, INDIA bloc, and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj lead the fight as Nitish vows political stability.


The first phase of Bihar Elections 2025 were held today with 121 of 243 seats polling. The second phase is on November 11. The election results will be announced on November 14. Key contests in the first phase include Tejashwi Yadav in Raghopur, Tej Pratap in Mahua, Maithili Thakur in Alinagar, and Anant Singh in Mokama. NDA, INDIA bloc, and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj are the main contenders. In 2020 state polls, the BJP-JDU alliance defeated the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan with a narrow margin. The BJP-JDU alliance won 125 seats (BJP 74, JDU 42, others 9), while the RJD won 75, Congress 19, and others 16. Although JDU was the junior partner in the alliance with fewer seats in its kitty, Nitish Kumar ended up being the Chief Minister of the state, for the seventh time. However, midway through his term, he did what most people expected the most from him! He shifted his allegiance and joined the Mahagathbandhan in 2022, taking oath as CM for the eighth term. This time, Kumar became instrumental in forming yet another anti-BJP grouping - the INDIA alliance, only to exit it in 2024. He patched up with the BJP and became the CM again and took oath for the ninth time. Ahead of the Bihar Elections 2025, Nitish Kumar has vowed not to shift sides "ever again." The BJP is yet again rowing its boat with Nitish as its oarsman. The Mahagathbandhan is hesitant to project RJD's Tejashwi Yadav as its CM face, despite his commendable performance in the 2020 state elections. This time, the elder Lalu Yadav scion, Tej Pratap Yadav, is not with RJD anymore and has formed his own Janshakti Janta Dal. In the fray is also Prashant Kishore's Jan Suraaj - Delhi media's current favourite and man credited for the victory of many politicians in the country, from PM Modi to Mamata Banerjee. In NDA, there's Modi's ‘Hanuman’ - Union Chirag Paswan - His Lok Janshakti Party has not shied away from expressing its desire for the top post in the state. Apart from regional players like Mukesh Sahni’s VIP party, Paswan's uncle Pashupati Paras, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustan Awami Morcha, there's Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM - whose party won a whopping five seats in the Seemanchal region last elections.

Bihar Chief Electoral Officer Vinod Singh Gunjiyal shared the data of first phase of polling during a press conference. He said that the voting percentage stood at 64.46%

india news

Left Unity sweeps JNU Students’ Union polls, defeats RSS-backed ABVP

Nehru deliberately removed Ma Durga stanzas from Vande Mataram: BJP

Delhi’s air quality deteriorates to ‘very poor’ as smog blankets NCR

‘Nobody can blame pilot’: Supreme Court issues notice on Air India crash probe

150 Years of Vande Mataram: Key facts every Indian should know about the song

PM Modi to flag off four new Vande Bharat trains from Varanasi. check routes

PM Modi to attend global Peace Prayer Festival, says Bhutan PM Tobgay

SC orders removal of all stray animals from highways, says THIS about dog bites

At least 100 flights delayed at Delhi Airport due to massive glitch

Srinagar police foil terror plot; three accused arrested with arms, ammunition

Indian Navy's GSAT-7R satellite is at its final destination: ISRO Chief

‘Don’t divide Army by caste and religion’: Amit Shah hits out at Rahul Gandhi

In Bhutan’s Himalayan haven, Buddhist leaders convene for global peace prayers

India bolsters 'chicken's neck' defences amid Pakistan's engagement with Bangladesh

Is 'Jana Gana Mana’ a British anthem? BJP leader sparks controversy

Tourists flock to Kashmir as Chinar trees set the valley ablaze in colour

Bihar Elections: The narrow margins and key seats that shaped the 2020 verdict

'They hurled stones, cow dung': Bihar Dy CM allegedly heckled by RJD supporters

Brazil model reacts after Rahul Gandhi says her photo used in Haryana voter list

‘Jungle raj destroyed Bihar’: PM Modi attacks RJD, Congress in Araria

Bihar Election 2025: Are schools, banks, offices open on polling day? Check here

Bihar Election 2025 Phase 1: Voter turnout stands at 60.13% till 5 pm

Bihar Elections 2025 | Polling ends in phase 1 at over 60% voter turnout

Bihar Elections 2025: 3 different voting timings for phase-1

Bihar assembly election 2025: Will unemployment and women be silent deciders?

Bihar polls: First phase voting today to decide fate of 15 ministers, Tejashwi