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With focus on Africa, South America and the Caribbean, Indian Prime Minister Modi will be travelling to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana starting November 16th. The first stop of the three-country tour will be the oil-rich West African country Nigeria, where PM Modi will be focusing on strengthening ties and will hold a meeting with President Bola Tinubu. Nigeria has the largest economy and is the most populated country on the African continent. The OPEC country was invited as one of the guest countries during the Delhi G20 summit in 2023.

The Indian Prime Minister will then travel to Brazil's Rio de Janeiro from November 17th to 19th for the annual G20 summit, a group of 20 leading economies of the world. India is part of the G20 troika, along with Brazil and South Africa, which is a transition governance structure in grouping. Last year, India hosted the summit in Delhi, during which the G20 Presidency gavel was handed by PM Modi to Brazilian President Luiz da Silva. 
 
PM Modi travelled to Brazil in 2014 for the 6th BRICS Summit and in 2019 for the 11th BRICS Summit. In 2020, the then-Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro visited India, during which he was the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-worker-found-dead-inside-party-office-in-indias-west-bengal-woman-arrested-774908">BJP worker found dead inside party office in India's West Bengal, woman arrested</a>

On the sidelines of the G20 summit, PM Modi is expected to hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders. The summit will see the attendance of several world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden. This will be the last major global summit President Biden attends ahead of the inauguration of Donald Trump as US President on January 20th, 2025.

The last leg of PM Modi's visit will be to Guyana from the 19th to 21st of November. During the visit, PM will hold talks with President Irfaan Ali. India has significantly increased ties with the country in several domains, including defence, and energy. Delhi has been reaching out to Guyana with credit facilities for agriculture, information technology, and capacity building via the ITEC programme.

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The Indian diaspora in Guyana, known as Indo-Guyanese, is a significant part of the country, and, at 40 per cent, it constitutes the largest ethnic group in the South American country. Most of them trace their origin to the North Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. President Ali himself is of Indian ancestry and was invited as the Chief Guest for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in India last year. The first group of Indians are known to have arrived in the country in 1838, over 180 years ago, to work in sugarcane plantations.

During the visit to Guyana, PM Modi will also chair the India CARICOM, or Caribbean summit. The summit is part of India's outreach to the Caribbean nations. The inaugural summit took place in 2019 in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Focus during the summit will be on trade, investments, and India's support for infrastructure projects in these countries.

With focus on Africa, South America and the Caribbean, Indian Prime Minister Modi will be travelling to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana starting November 16th. The first stop of the three-country tour will be the oil-rich West African country Nigeria, where PM Modi will be focusing on strengthening ties and will hold a meeting with President Bola Tinubu.

With focus on Africa, South America and the Caribbean, Indian Prime Minister Modi will be travelling to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana starting November 16th. The first stop of the three-country tour will be the oil-rich West African country Nigeria, where PM Modi will be focusing on strengthening ties and will hold a meeting with President Bola Tinubu. Nigeria has the largest economy and is the most populated country on the African continent. The OPEC country was invited as one of the guest countries during the Delhi G20 summit in 2023. The Indian Prime Minister will then travel to Brazil's Rio de Janeiro from November 17th to 19th for the annual G20 summit, a group of 20 leading economies of the world. India is part of the G20 troika, along with Brazil and South Africa, which is a transition governance structure in grouping. Last year, India hosted the summit in Delhi, during which the G20 Presidency gavel was handed by PM Modi to Brazilian President Luiz da Silva. PM Modi travelled to Brazil in 2014 for the 6th BRICS Summit and in 2019 for the 11th BRICS Summit. In 2020, the then-Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro visited India, during which he was the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations. Also read | BJP worker found dead inside party office in India's West Bengal, woman arrested On the sidelines of the G20 summit, PM Modi is expected to hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders. The summit will see the attendance of several world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden. This will be the last major global summit President Biden attends ahead of the inauguration of Donald Trump as US President on January 20th, 2025. The last leg of PM Modi's visit will be to Guyana from the 19th to 21st of November. During the visit, PM will hold talks with President Irfaan Ali. India has significantly increased ties with the country in several domains, including defence, and energy. Delhi has been reaching out to Guyana with credit facilities for agriculture, information technology, and capacity building via the ITEC programme. Also read | Two encounters break out in India's Jammu and Kashmir within hours. Know more The Indian diaspora in Guyana, known as Indo-Guyanese, is a significant part of the country, and, at 40 per cent, it constitutes the largest ethnic group in the South American country. Most of them trace their origin to the North Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand. President Ali himself is of Indian ancestry and was invited as the Chief Guest for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in India last year. The first group of Indians are known to have arrived in the country in 1838, over 180 years ago, to work in sugarcane plantations. During the visit to Guyana, PM Modi will also chair the India CARICOM, or Caribbean summit. The summit is part of India's outreach to the Caribbean nations. The inaugural summit took place in 2019 in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Focus during the summit will be on trade, investments, and India's support for infrastructure projects in these countries.

PM Modi to travel to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana this month

The Delhi Metro is running additional early morning trains from Saturday to Monday to connect people returning to Delhi-NCR after Chhath puja via the New Delhi and the Anand Vihar railway stations.

Metro services are commencing at 5:15 am from the New Delhi metro station on the Yellow Line and 5:30 am from the Anand Vihar ISBT metro station instead of the usual services at 5:45 am and 6:04 am, respectively, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said in a statement.

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It further said in a post on X, "To serve passengers returning to Delhi-NCR after Chhath puja, Delhi Metro is operating additional trains in early morning hours from November 9 to 11, specially to provide connectivity to passengers arriving at New Delhi and Anand Vihar railway stations."

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Interchange facilities are available at all major interchange stations across the Delhi Metro network to ensure a smooth and convenient journey, it added.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The Delhi Metro is running additional early morning trains from Saturday to Monday to connect people returning to Delhi-NCR after Chhath puja via the New Delhi and the Anand Vihar railway stations.

The Delhi Metro is running additional early morning trains from Saturday to Monday to connect people returning to Delhi-NCR after Chhath puja via the New Delhi and the Anand Vihar railway stations. Metro services are commencing at 5:15 am from the New Delhi metro station on the Yellow Line and 5:30 am from the Anand Vihar ISBT metro station instead of the usual services at 5:45 am and 6:04 am, respectively, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said in a statement. Also read: Delhi Metro ticket operator `removed` for financial mishandling It further said in a post on X, "To serve passengers returning to Delhi-NCR after Chhath puja, Delhi Metro is operating additional trains in early morning hours from November 9 to 11, specially to provide connectivity to passengers arriving at New Delhi and Anand Vihar railway stations." Also read: Passenger thrashes man caught stealing purse on Delhi Metro, internet divided after video goes viral Interchange facilities are available at all major interchange stations across the Delhi Metro network to ensure a smooth and convenient journey, it added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Delhi Metro's gift to people returning after Chhath: Early morning trains

India’s national capital New Delhi has been witnessing extremely poor air quality for weeks now, rising cases of respiratory issues. A doctor from Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Friday (Nov 8) said many people are complaining about experiencing sleepless nights due to chronic cough.

Dr Bobby Bhalotra, vice chairman of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at the hospital, told news agency ANI that the number of people reporting breathlessness has increased.

"Many patients are experiencing sleepless nights due to persistent cough. Those with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), chronic smokers, and individuals working in dusty environments, particularly police personnel, are seeing their conditions worsen. Every citizen must take responsibility to reduce pollution and limit exposure," he said.

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New Delhi’s air quality has remained in the ‘very poor’ category for the last eight days since the Diwali festival. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded Delhi’s pollution AQI level at 383 at 8:00 am (local time) on Friday.

In other areas, Alipur recorded an AQI of 397, Bawana 440, Dwarka Sector 8 at 391, Mundka at 428, Najafgarh at 374, New Moti Bagh at 427, Rohini at 439, Punjabi Bagh at 406, and RK Puram at 406, according to SAFAR. These areas reported very poor to severe air quality, posing significant health risks.

Watch:&nbsp;New Delhi: Indian Capital Chokes Under Blanket Of Smog As AQI Drops To 'Severe' Category

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Meanwhile, the Indian government has now doubled the fine for stubble burning, a widespread practice in the northern agrarian states of Haryana and Punjab.

The decision by the government of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes after India’s apex court blasted it last month for failing to stop stubble burning and to control the levels of pollution across the national capital region. As per the new directives, a farmer having an area of land of less than two acres shall pay an environmental compensation of Rs 5000 ($60). Earlier, this penalty stood at Rs 2,500.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s national capital New Delhi has been witnessing extremely poor air quality for weeks now, rising cases of respiratory issues. A doctor from Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Friday (Nov 8) said many people are complaining about experiencing sleepless nights due to chronic cough.

India’s national capital New Delhi has been witnessing extremely poor air quality for weeks now, rising cases of respiratory issues. A doctor from Delhi’s Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Friday (Nov 8) said many people are complaining about experiencing sleepless nights due to chronic cough. Dr Bobby Bhalotra, vice chairman of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at the hospital, told news agency ANI that the number of people reporting breathlessness has increased. "Many patients are experiencing sleepless nights due to persistent cough. Those with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), chronic smokers, and individuals working in dusty environments, particularly police personnel, are seeing their conditions worsen. Every citizen must take responsibility to reduce pollution and limit exposure," he said. Also read: `God spared my life for a reason`: Trump hails election victory in rousing speech; here are the top quotes New Delhi’s air quality has remained in the ‘very poor’ category for the last eight days since the Diwali festival. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded Delhi’s pollution AQI level at 383 at 8:00 am (local time) on Friday. In other areas, Alipur recorded an AQI of 397, Bawana 440, Dwarka Sector 8 at 391, Mundka at 428, Najafgarh at 374, New Moti Bagh at 427, Rohini at 439, Punjabi Bagh at 406, and RK Puram at 406, according to SAFAR. These areas reported very poor to severe air quality, posing significant health risks. Watch: New Delhi: Indian Capital Chokes Under Blanket Of Smog As AQI Drops To 'Severe' Category × Meanwhile, the Indian government has now doubled the fine for stubble burning, a widespread practice in the northern agrarian states of Haryana and Punjab. The decision by the government of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes after India’s apex court blasted it last month for failing to stop stubble burning and to control the levels of pollution across the national capital region. As per the new directives, a farmer having an area of land of less than two acres shall pay an environmental compensation of Rs 5000 ($60). Earlier, this penalty stood at Rs 2,500. (With inputs from agencies)

Respiratory illness rising amid poor AQI in Delhi, Centre doubles fine for stubble burning

Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised.

A shocking incident occurred in the Indian city of Meerut’s Kankerkheda, where two women allegedly burned five puppies to death after their noise disturbed their sleep at night.

According to reports, the women, Shobha and Aarti, who are sisters-in-law, poured petrol over the stray puppies to burn them alive after they became frustrated with their whines, the&nbsp;police said on Friday (Nov 8).

The incident, which occurred on November 5, came to light after Anshumali Vashishth, general secretary of the Animal Care Society, filed a complaint at the Kankerkheda police station in Meerut.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/forcing-daughter-in-law-to-sleep-on-carpet-verbal-abuse-not-cruelty-bombay-high-court-774852">Forcing daughter-in-law to sleep on carpet, verbal abuse not cruelty: Bombay High Court</a>

“The two women, Sobha and Aarti (who go by their first names only), allegedly eliminated the puppies because their barking disturbed them at night,” said Vashishth.

“The two women poured petrol on the three-day-old puppies and set them on fire. The puppies, who didn't open their eyes even once, endured extreme cruelty. After the matter came to light, locals confronted the two women... When we told police about the matter, the cops initially didn't take any action,” he added, according to a report by Times of India.

When no action was taken, Animal Care Society activists filed another complaint at the police station, India Today reported.

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According to Station House Officer (SHO) Jitendra Kumar, the women have been booked under Section 325 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, which includes mischief by killing or maiming animals.&nbsp;

The matter was also brought to Circle Officer Daurala Shuchita Singh on Friday by Meerut Vyapar Mandal, who demanded strict action against the perpetrators.

“Further legal action will follow upon investigation,” Kumar said. The SHO told news agency PTI that an FIR was filed based on Vashishth’s statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. A shocking incident occurred in the Indian city of Meerut’s Kankerkheda, where two women allegedly burned five puppies to death after their noise disturbed their sleep at night.

Disclaimer: Some readers may find the story disturbing. Discretion is advised. A shocking incident occurred in the Indian city of Meerut’s Kankerkheda, where two women allegedly burned five puppies to death after their noise disturbed their sleep at night. According to reports, the women, Shobha and Aarti, who are sisters-in-law, poured petrol over the stray puppies to burn them alive after they became frustrated with their whines, the police said on Friday (Nov 8). The incident, which occurred on November 5, came to light after Anshumali Vashishth, general secretary of the Animal Care Society, filed a complaint at the Kankerkheda police station in Meerut. Also read | Forcing daughter-in-law to sleep on carpet, verbal abuse not cruelty: Bombay High Court “The two women, Sobha and Aarti (who go by their first names only), allegedly eliminated the puppies because their barking disturbed them at night,” said Vashishth. “The two women poured petrol on the three-day-old puppies and set them on fire. The puppies, who didn't open their eyes even once, endured extreme cruelty. After the matter came to light, locals confronted the two women... When we told police about the matter, the cops initially didn't take any action,” he added, according to a report by Times of India. When no action was taken, Animal Care Society activists filed another complaint at the police station, India Today reported. Also read | India: UP panel suggests 'no male tailor should take women’s measurements' for safety According to Station House Officer (SHO) Jitendra Kumar, the women have been booked under Section 325 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, which includes mischief by killing or maiming animals. The matter was also brought to Circle Officer Daurala Shuchita Singh on Friday by Meerut Vyapar Mandal, who demanded strict action against the perpetrators. “Further legal action will follow upon investigation,” Kumar said. The SHO told news agency PTI that an FIR was filed based on Vashishth’s statement. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Two Meerut women booked for burning puppies alive for disturbing their sleep

A total of three coaches including one parcel van of the 22850 Secundrabad Shalimar SF Express derailed on Saturday (Nov 9) near Nalpur Station of the South Eastern Railway division, the news agency ANI reported citing the CPRO South-Eastern Railway.

A total of three coaches including one parcel van of the 22850 Secundrabad Shalimar SF Express derailed on Saturday (Nov 9) near Nalpur Station of the South Eastern Railway division, the news agency ANI reported citing the CPRO South-Eastern Railway. The CPRO South-Eastern Railway said that no casualties or injuries have been reported so far. Visuals shared by ANI showed that rescue and restoration works were underway. "...Everyone is safe. Locals came and helped the people. Train movement has been stopped. Restoration work is going on...", a resident told ANI. What caused the derailment? According to officials, the derailment occurred when the train was shifting to the outer tracks. #WATCH | Howrah, West Bengal: Help Desk set up at Howrah Railway Station to assist passengers of Secundrabad Shalimar SF Express 3 coaches including one parcel van of the 22850 Secundrabad Shalimar SF Express derailed near Nalpur Station of the South Eastern Railway division,… pic.twitter.com/a9Yb6LgKLC — ANI (@ANI) November 9, 2024 × "Today morning at 5:31 am, the Secunderabad Shalimar Weekly Express Train derailed while going from the middle line to the down line. One parcel van and two passenger coaches have derailed. No major injury or casualty has been reported," South-Eastern Railway official Om Prakash Charan told ANI. "10 buses have been arranged for passengers for their onward journey," Charan added. Relief material reaches spot According to the South-Eastern Railway, Accident relief and medical relief trains from Santragachi and Kharagpur have reached the spot, ANI further reported. Southern Railway has issued helpline numbers for assistance. Help Desk Numbers: Kharagpur - 63764 (Railway) and 032229-3764 (P&T). (With inputs from agencies)

Three coaches of the Secunderabad-Shalimar Express derail in India's Howrah

Bombay High Court’s bench in the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Aurangabad has overturned a 20-year-old court order that convicted a man and his family for cruelty towards his late wife. The court said that allegations of not allowing their daughter-in-law to watch TV, forcing her to sleep on the carpet, not letting her visit the temple alone, and verbally abusing her were not “severe” actions under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

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Section 498A of the IPC states, “Whoever being the husband or the relative of the husband of a woman, subjects such woman to cruelty shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend for three years and shall also be liable to fine.”

The high court observed that the nature of these allegations involving domestic problems do not amount to physical and mental torture. The man, along with his brother and parents were acquitted by the High Court for these offences and IPC Section 306 (abetment of suicide).&nbsp;

The couple in question got married in December 2002, and the woman committed suicide in May 2003, due to alleged ill-treatment by her in-laws.

In an October 17 order, the single judge bench of Justice Abhay S Waghwase dismissed the allegations of cruelty towards her. The woman’s family also complained that her in-laws demanded dowry and would send her to fetch water at midnight.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-coaches-of-the-secunderabad-shalimar-express-derail-in-indias-howrah-774751">Three coaches of the Secunderabad-Shalimar Express derail in India's Howrah</a>

However, the court noted that the village of Varangaon, where they lived, usually received the water supply around midnight and families would go to fetch water around that time.

“There is a gap of almost two months since deceased, complainant and witnesses met each other. They (mother, uncle and aunt of deceased) have admitted that, there was no communication from deceased either written or oral, she has not conveyed that there was any instances of cruelty in proximity to suicide. There is no evidence to show that at that relevant point or any proximity to the suicide, there was any demand, cruelty or mal-treatment so as to connect them with the suicidal death. What triggered the suicide has remained a mystery,” the high court wrote&nbsp;in its order, as per LiveLaw.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bombay High Court’s bench in the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Aurangabad has overturned a 20-year-old court order that convicted a man and his family for cruelty towards his late wife.

Bombay High Court’s bench in the Indian state of Maharashtra’s Aurangabad has overturned a 20-year-old court order that convicted a man and his family for cruelty towards his late wife. The court said that allegations of not allowing their daughter-in-law to watch TV, forcing her to sleep on the carpet, not letting her visit the temple alone, and verbally abusing her were not “severe” actions under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Also read | India: UP panel suggests 'no male tailor should take women’s measurements' for safety Section 498A of the IPC states, “Whoever being the husband or the relative of the husband of a woman, subjects such woman to cruelty shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend for three years and shall also be liable to fine.” The high court observed that the nature of these allegations involving domestic problems do not amount to physical and mental torture. The man, along with his brother and parents were acquitted by the High Court for these offences and IPC Section 306 (abetment of suicide). The couple in question got married in December 2002, and the woman committed suicide in May 2003, due to alleged ill-treatment by her in-laws. In an October 17 order, the single judge bench of Justice Abhay S Waghwase dismissed the allegations of cruelty towards her. The woman’s family also complained that her in-laws demanded dowry and would send her to fetch water at midnight. Also read | Three coaches of the Secunderabad-Shalimar Express derail in India's Howrah However, the court noted that the village of Varangaon, where they lived, usually received the water supply around midnight and families would go to fetch water around that time. “There is a gap of almost two months since deceased, complainant and witnesses met each other. They (mother, uncle and aunt of deceased) have admitted that, there was no communication from deceased either written or oral, she has not conveyed that there was any instances of cruelty in proximity to suicide. There is no evidence to show that at that relevant point or any proximity to the suicide, there was any demand, cruelty or mal-treatment so as to connect them with the suicidal death. What triggered the suicide has remained a mystery,” the high court wrote in its order, as per LiveLaw. (With inputs from agencies)

Forcing daughter-in-law to sleep on carpet, verbal abuse not cruelty: Bombay High Court

The Indian chapter of Swedish smartphone application Truecaller was raided by Indian tax officials on Thursday (Nov 7) over an alleged violation of transfer pricing regulation action. The raids were carried out at several locations, including Gurugram in Haryana state and&nbsp;Bengaluru in Karnataka. The application, used for features like calling ID and spam blocking by more than 400 million customers in India, is under scrutiny for alleged tax evasion.

News agency PTI reported that the IT department officers conducted searches to gather information and peruse documents to detect potential tax evasion.

Later, Truecaller in a statement also confirmed its offices were visited by IT officials and said it was fully ready to cooperate with the authorities.

“This came without prior notice and Truecaller is currently awaiting official confirmation and communication from the tax departments,” the company said in a statement.

“This is not an uncommon practice and Truecaller will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities,” Truecaller added.

It also stressed that it is "not subject to any tax investigation in India outside the routine tax audits" and that it has "always paid all taxes due in India and all regions where it operates."

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiarYH26MqJAxUglK8BHRSTHsoQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/god-spared-my-life-for-a-reason-trump-hails-election-victory-in-rousing-speech-here-are-the-top-quotes-773960" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/god-spared-my-life-for-a-reason-trump-hails-election-victory-in-rousing-speech-here-are-the-top-quotes-773960&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiarYH26MqJAxUglK8BHRSTHsoQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">`God spared my life for a reason`: Trump hails election victory in rousing speech; here are the top quotes</a>

Addressing the concerns over transfer pricing regulation, Truecaller said its policy is in line with international standards.

“The purpose is to ensure that Truecaller pays tax in a way that is correct from the perspective of both the Swedish and the Indian tax authorities. The policy is continuously independently reviewed to ensure that it meets the tax law requirements of both countries,” the company noted.

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It's important to highlight that India is the biggest market for the Swedish company. In their financial report for July to September 2024, they stated that their monthly active user base grew by 12 per cent, reaching a total of 413.5 million users.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian chapter of Swedish smartphone application Truecaller was raided by Indian tax officials on Thursday (Nov 7) over an alleged violation of transfer pricing regulation action.

The Indian chapter of Swedish smartphone application Truecaller was raided by Indian tax officials on Thursday (Nov 7) over an alleged violation of transfer pricing regulation action. The raids were carried out at several locations, including Gurugram in Haryana state and Bengaluru in Karnataka. The application, used for features like calling ID and spam blocking by more than 400 million customers in India, is under scrutiny for alleged tax evasion. News agency PTI reported that the IT department officers conducted searches to gather information and peruse documents to detect potential tax evasion. Later, Truecaller in a statement also confirmed its offices were visited by IT officials and said it was fully ready to cooperate with the authorities. “This came without prior notice and Truecaller is currently awaiting official confirmation and communication from the tax departments,” the company said in a statement. “This is not an uncommon practice and Truecaller will cooperate fully with the relevant authorities,” Truecaller added. It also stressed that it is "not subject to any tax investigation in India outside the routine tax audits" and that it has "always paid all taxes due in India and all regions where it operates." Also read: `God spared my life for a reason`: Trump hails election victory in rousing speech; here are the top quotes Addressing the concerns over transfer pricing regulation, Truecaller said its policy is in line with international standards. “The purpose is to ensure that Truecaller pays tax in a way that is correct from the perspective of both the Swedish and the Indian tax authorities. The policy is continuously independently reviewed to ensure that it meets the tax law requirements of both countries,” the company noted. Also read: Telegram gets probed by Indian govt for gambling and extortion, may face ban: Report It's important to highlight that India is the biggest market for the Swedish company. In their financial report for July to September 2024, they stated that their monthly active user base grew by 12 per cent, reaching a total of 413.5 million users. (With inputs from agencies)

Truecaller raided in India for alleged tax evasion, firm says all okay

As rains lashed several parts of southern Kerala on Friday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert in three districts in the state.

The IMD issued an orange alert for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta districts for the day.

In addition, a yellow alert was issued for Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki districts.

An orange alert indicates very heavy rain (6 cm to 20 cm), while a yellow alert signifies heavy rainfall between 6 and 11 cm.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjLjeKNhc2JAxVxTGwGHcPAA5AQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-keralas-raging-athirappilly-waterfall-turns-demonic-amid-heavy-monsoon-rains-745964" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-keralas-raging-athirappilly-waterfall-turns-demonic-amid-heavy-monsoon-rains-745964&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjLjeKNhc2JAxVxTGwGHcPAA5AQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE">Watch: Kerala's raging Athirappilly Waterfall turns demonic amid heavy monsoon rains - India News News</a>

The IMD also advised against fishing activities along the Kerala-Lakshadweep coast, citing the likelihood of strong winds and adverse weather conditions.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) cautioned the public to remain indoors and avoid standing under trees or hoardings due to the potential for strong winds accompanying the heavy rains.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

As rains lashed several parts of southern Kerala on Friday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert in three districts in the state. The IMD issued an orange alert for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta districts for the day.

As rains lashed several parts of southern Kerala on Friday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert in three districts in the state. The IMD issued an orange alert for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta districts for the day. In addition, a yellow alert was issued for Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki districts. An orange alert indicates very heavy rain (6 cm to 20 cm), while a yellow alert signifies heavy rainfall between 6 and 11 cm. Also read: Watch: Kerala's raging Athirappilly Waterfall turns demonic amid heavy monsoon rains - India News News The IMD also advised against fishing activities along the Kerala-Lakshadweep coast, citing the likelihood of strong winds and adverse weather conditions. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) cautioned the public to remain indoors and avoid standing under trees or hoardings due to the potential for strong winds accompanying the heavy rains. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Heavy rains batter Kerala, weather department issues orange alert

A baby Great Indian Bustard has hatched in the Indian state of Rajasthan after artificial insemination under the “Bustard Conservation and Rehabilitation Program”. The aim of the program is to save the highly endangered species from becoming extinct.&nbsp;

Bhanjanlal Sharma, the chief minister of Rajasthan, as per news agency ANI, said, "This remarkable success has been achieved at the artificial breeding centre in Jaisalmer under the 'Bustard Conservation and Rehabilitation Program' run with the important objective of preventing the extinction of Rajasthan's state bird Great Indian Bustard and increasing its numbers. This unprecedented achievement will be an important milestone in the direction of Great Indian Bustard conservation.”&nbsp;

The mother bustard chick, named Tony, laid an egg at the breeding centre on September 24, which was under the observation of scientists, and a healthy chick hatched on October 16.

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The Rajasthan CM expressed his happiness for the achievement on X and said, "Happy and proud news! A historic achievement has been made in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Significant success has been achieved in the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard species, which is continuously moving towards extinction, where a healthy chick has been born through the new technique of artificial insemination.”&nbsp;

He also said&nbsp;that the achievement is a milestone in the conservation efforts of these endangered species.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cid-probe-ordered-after-samosas-meant-for-himachal-cm-served-to-his-staff-by-mistake-774581">CID probe ordered after samosas meant for Himachal CM served to his staff by mistake</a>

The Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Diya Kumari, took to&nbsp;Instagram and said:&nbsp;"A major success has been achieved in the efforts to conserve the Great Indian Bustard in Jaisalmer. The use of artificial insemination has resulted in the birth of a healthy chick, a historic step towards increasing the declining population of the Great Indian Bustard and saving it from extinction."

The number of Great Indian Bustards has been reduced dramatically in the last 25 years, with only around 150 birds left. The birth of a healthy baby is a significant milestone that the state has achieved in its prevention efforts. This achievement is a ray of hope to protect and prevent the extinction of these species.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A baby Great Indian Bustard has hatched in the Indian state of Rajasthan after artificial insemination under the “Bustard Conservation and Rehabilitation Program”.

A baby Great Indian Bustard has hatched in the Indian state of Rajasthan after artificial insemination under the “Bustard Conservation and Rehabilitation Program”. The aim of the program is to save the highly endangered species from becoming extinct. Bhanjanlal Sharma, the chief minister of Rajasthan, as per news agency ANI, said, "This remarkable success has been achieved at the artificial breeding centre in Jaisalmer under the 'Bustard Conservation and Rehabilitation Program' run with the important objective of preventing the extinction of Rajasthan's state bird Great Indian Bustard and increasing its numbers. This unprecedented achievement will be an important milestone in the direction of Great Indian Bustard conservation.” The mother bustard chick, named Tony, laid an egg at the breeding centre on September 24, which was under the observation of scientists, and a healthy chick hatched on October 16. Also Read | Woman seen applying toxic foam to her hair while bathing in Yamuna river The Rajasthan CM expressed his happiness for the achievement on X and said, "Happy and proud news! A historic achievement has been made in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Significant success has been achieved in the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard species, which is continuously moving towards extinction, where a healthy chick has been born through the new technique of artificial insemination.” He also said that the achievement is a milestone in the conservation efforts of these endangered species. Also Read | CID probe ordered after samosas meant for Himachal CM served to his staff by mistake The Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Diya Kumari, took to Instagram and said: "A major success has been achieved in the efforts to conserve the Great Indian Bustard in Jaisalmer. The use of artificial insemination has resulted in the birth of a healthy chick, a historic step towards increasing the declining population of the Great Indian Bustard and saving it from extinction." The number of Great Indian Bustards has been reduced dramatically in the last 25 years, with only around 150 birds left. The birth of a healthy baby is a significant milestone that the state has achieved in its prevention efforts. This achievement is a ray of hope to protect and prevent the extinction of these species. (With inputs from agencies)

In a historic first, baby of highly endangered Great Indian Bustard born by artificial insemination

Peel Regional Police in Canada have arrested a Toronto resident of Indian origin, in connection with protests at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Mandir on November 4.

Ranendra Lal Banerjee, 57, faces charges of "public incitement of hatred" under section 319 (1) of Canada’s Criminal Code.

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In a video statement posted on X on Thursday, police officer Tyler Bell said, "Following the demonstrations, several videos' started to circulate online which captured several offences taking place including a video of an individual using a loudspeaker inciting violence and hatred, as the result of the ongoing investigations into the offences, peer police have arrested Ranendra Lal Banerjee."

Peel Regional Police also issued warrants for two others, 24-year-old Armaan Gahlot from Kitchener and&nbsp;Arpit, 22,&nbsp;who face charges of threatening to cause death or bodily harm, conspiring to commit assault with a weapon, and conspiring to commit mischief.

“As investigators make attempts to locate, they are encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn themselves into police,” the Peel police stated.

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"Any acts of violence, threats of violence or vandalism will not be tolerated. We appreciate the cooperation of those who remained peaceful during these events," the police added.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir, calling it a "cowardly attempt to intimidate" New Delhi’s diplomats in Canada. Modi said that India expects Canadian authorities to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law.

Following the protests, the Indian consulate in Toronto has decided to cancel some upcoming facilitation camps, citing inadequate security assurances from Canadian authorities.

This decision, shared on social media on Wednesday, came after Canadian security agencies told the Indian consulate about their limited ability to guarantee sufficient protection at these events.

Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah had also sent a letter to acting Indian consul-general Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh, regarding rising tensions surrounding consular camps held at religious sites in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

(With inputs from agencies)

Peel Regional Police in Canada have arrested a Toronto resident of Indian origin, in connection with protests at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Mandir on November 4. Ranendra Lal Banerjee, 57, faces charges of "public incitement of hatred" under section 319 (1) of Canada’s Criminal Code.

Peel Regional Police in Canada have arrested a Toronto resident of Indian origin, in connection with protests at Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Mandir on November 4. Ranendra Lal Banerjee, 57, faces charges of "public incitement of hatred" under section 319 (1) of Canada’s Criminal Code. Also read: Clueless US voters Googled ‘where to vote for Biden’ in Trump vs Harris fight In a video statement posted on X on Thursday, police officer Tyler Bell said, "Following the demonstrations, several videos' started to circulate online which captured several offences taking place including a video of an individual using a loudspeaker inciting violence and hatred, as the result of the ongoing investigations into the offences, peer police have arrested Ranendra Lal Banerjee." Peel Regional Police also issued warrants for two others, 24-year-old Armaan Gahlot from Kitchener and Arpit, 22, who face charges of threatening to cause death or bodily harm, conspiring to commit assault with a weapon, and conspiring to commit mischief. “As investigators make attempts to locate, they are encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn themselves into police,” the Peel police stated. Also read: Elon Musk forecasts Justin Trudeau's fall, says 'he will be gone in the...' "Any acts of violence, threats of violence or vandalism will not be tolerated. We appreciate the cooperation of those who remained peaceful during these events," the police added. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack on the Hindu Sabha Mandir, calling it a "cowardly attempt to intimidate" New Delhi’s diplomats in Canada. Modi said that India expects Canadian authorities to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law. Following the protests, the Indian consulate in Toronto has decided to cancel some upcoming facilitation camps, citing inadequate security assurances from Canadian authorities. This decision, shared on social media on Wednesday, came after Canadian security agencies told the Indian consulate about their limited ability to guarantee sufficient protection at these events. Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah had also sent a letter to acting Indian consul-general Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh, regarding rising tensions surrounding consular camps held at religious sites in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). (With inputs from agencies)

Canada police arrest Indian-origin man for 'inciting hatred' over Hindu Sabha temple protests

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra is a vehicle that has neither wheels nor brakes, and there is a fight there to sit on the driver's seat.

Addressing his first rally in the state for the November 20 assembly elections, Modi said only the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance will ensure speedy development of Maharashtra.

“You all know my affinity with Maharashtra,” Modi said.

“We consider people as another form of god, but some people are in politics to loot people,” Modi said, addressing the rally in north Maharashtra’s Dhule district.

Modi said that whenever he has asked for something from the people of Maharashtra, they have given him their blessings wholeheartedly.

“I assure you that the pace at which Maharashtra's development has gained in the last two-and-a-half years will not be allowed to stop,” Modi said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mea-responds-to-mizoram-cm-lalduhomas-controversial-statement-in-the-us-774548">MEA responds to Mizoram CM Lalduhoma's controversial statement in the US</a>

The prime minister said that only the BJP-led Mahayuti government can provide the good governance that Maharashtra needs.

The Congress was in power simultaneously at Centre and in Maharashtra but never felt the need for Marathi to be given the status of classical language, Modi said.

“A dangerous game of pitting one caste against another is being played by the Congress as that party can never see Dalits, backward classes and tribals progressing,” Modi said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra is a vehicle that has neither wheels nor brakes, and there is a fight there to sit on the driver's seat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra is a vehicle that has neither wheels nor brakes, and there is a fight there to sit on the driver's seat. Addressing his first rally in the state for the November 20 assembly elections, Modi said only the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance will ensure speedy development of Maharashtra. “You all know my affinity with Maharashtra,” Modi said. “We consider people as another form of god, but some people are in politics to loot people,” Modi said, addressing the rally in north Maharashtra’s Dhule district. Modi said that whenever he has asked for something from the people of Maharashtra, they have given him their blessings wholeheartedly. “I assure you that the pace at which Maharashtra's development has gained in the last two-and-a-half years will not be allowed to stop,” Modi said. Also read: MEA responds to Mizoram CM Lalduhoma's controversial statement in the US The prime minister said that only the BJP-led Mahayuti government can provide the good governance that Maharashtra needs. The Congress was in power simultaneously at Centre and in Maharashtra but never felt the need for Marathi to be given the status of classical language, Modi said. “A dangerous game of pitting one caste against another is being played by the Congress as that party can never see Dalits, backward classes and tribals progressing,” Modi said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: PM Modi mocks Maha Vikas Aghadi as ‘vehicle without wheels or brakes’ at Maharashtra rally

A political row over samosas! India’s investigation agency CID landed itself into a rather unusual probe when the samosas and cakes meant for Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu were served to his security staff instead.

The incident took place on October 21, when Sukhu visited the CID headquarters and the snacks meant for him were served to the staff, which the CM termed as an “anti-government” act.

According to reports, at least three boxes of samosas were brought from Hotel Radisson Blue as refreshments that were planned to serve to CM Sukhu, who visited the investigation agency’s headquarters to attend an event.

Soon an investigation was launched. As per the agency, the CID officials asked the tourism department employees on duty whether the food items kept in these boxes were to be served to the Chief Minister; they got the answer that they were not on his menu.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mea-responds-to-mizoram-cm-lalduhomas-controversial-statement-in-the-us-774548">MEA responds to Mizoram CM Lalduhoma's controversial statement in the US</a>

It was revealed in the investigation report that some officials were made in charge of the arrangements for refreshments meant for the staff accompanying the Chief Minister.&nbsp;

A woman official said that she was unaware that the items inside these three boxes were meant for the CM Sukhu and those three boxes were handed over to the MT section without opening.

The food items kept in the boxes were served with tea to some 10-12 people sitting in the IG's room on his orders, according to the statement of the officer in charge.

Later, as the probe went on, it was realised that only an SI rank officer knew that those snacks were meant for the Chief Minister.

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However, the Congress party has denied claims of a CID probe being ordered into the incident, saying that the investigation agency is pursuing the matter as per its own accord.

"The government did not order any such investigation, and it has nothing to do with this matter. The CID is investigating the matter at its own level. After all, who was given the refreshments served to the Chief Minister?," Naresh Chauhan, the chief media advisor to Sukhu said.

Chauhan also hit back at the BJP and said that they are unnecessarily blowing up the issue. "Because the BJP does not have any issues, hence false propaganda is being done against the Congress government through this issue," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A political row over samosas! India’s investigation agency CID landed itself into a rather unusual probe when the samosas and cakes meant for Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu were served to his security staff instead.

A political row over samosas! India’s investigation agency CID landed itself into a rather unusual probe when the samosas and cakes meant for Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu were served to his security staff instead. The incident took place on October 21, when Sukhu visited the CID headquarters and the snacks meant for him were served to the staff, which the CM termed as an “anti-government” act. According to reports, at least three boxes of samosas were brought from Hotel Radisson Blue as refreshments that were planned to serve to CM Sukhu, who visited the investigation agency’s headquarters to attend an event. Soon an investigation was launched. As per the agency, the CID officials asked the tourism department employees on duty whether the food items kept in these boxes were to be served to the Chief Minister; they got the answer that they were not on his menu. Also Read | MEA responds to Mizoram CM Lalduhoma's controversial statement in the US It was revealed in the investigation report that some officials were made in charge of the arrangements for refreshments meant for the staff accompanying the Chief Minister. A woman official said that she was unaware that the items inside these three boxes were meant for the CM Sukhu and those three boxes were handed over to the MT section without opening. The food items kept in the boxes were served with tea to some 10-12 people sitting in the IG's room on his orders, according to the statement of the officer in charge. Later, as the probe went on, it was realised that only an SI rank officer knew that those snacks were meant for the Chief Minister. Also Read | South India is being asked to have more babies. Is it sitting on a population time bomb? However, the Congress party has denied claims of a CID probe being ordered into the incident, saying that the investigation agency is pursuing the matter as per its own accord. "The government did not order any such investigation, and it has nothing to do with this matter. The CID is investigating the matter at its own level. After all, who was given the refreshments served to the Chief Minister?," Naresh Chauhan, the chief media advisor to Sukhu said. Chauhan also hit back at the BJP and said that they are unnecessarily blowing up the issue. "Because the BJP does not have any issues, hence false propaganda is being done against the Congress government through this issue," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

CID probe ordered after samosas meant for Himachal CM served to his staff by mistake

The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has put forth recommendations to improve women's safety in the Indian state. These proposals include measures such as preventing male tailors from taking women’s measurements and barring men from training women in gyms or yoga sessions.

The commission has also recommended that female security personnel should be placed on school buses. As per the commission's proposal, recruiting more female staff at women’s clothing stores will improve their&nbsp;safety.

These suggestions were presented in a meeting held on October 28 in Lucknow, where commission members explored various ways to improve women's safety, The Times of India reported.

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“The discussions are preliminary. Feasibility of these proposals is yet to be decided. Once approved, these proposals will be submitted to the govt to draft a policy for ground-level implementation,” a commission member was cited saying by The Times of India.

Meanwhile, Shamli district probation officer Hamid Hussain has asked local businesses to start implementing new safety measures including hiring female trainers or instructors in gyms, drama, and yoga centres for women, as well as installing CCTV systems with DVRs.

Hussain told TOI that school buses will now need to have a female security guard or teacher. Meanwhile, boutiques are directed to hire female tailors to take measurements of women, with CCTV cameras in place for added security.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-do-justice-indian-americans-seek-elon-musks-help-for-h-1b-visa-reforms-774563">'Please do justice': Indian Americans seek Elon Musk's help for H-1B visa</a>

“Boutique centres must employ female tailors for taking measurements of women, with active CCTV monitoring. Additionally, coaching centres are required to have CCTV surveillance and proper restroom facilities. Stores selling women-specific clothing and accessories must also employ female staff to assist customers,” Hussain said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has put forth recommendations to improve women's safety in the Indian state. These proposals include measures such as preventing male tailors from taking women’s measurements and barring men from training women in gyms or yoga sessions.

The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission has put forth recommendations to improve women's safety in the Indian state. These proposals include measures such as preventing male tailors from taking women’s measurements and barring men from training women in gyms or yoga sessions. The commission has also recommended that female security personnel should be placed on school buses. As per the commission's proposal, recruiting more female staff at women’s clothing stores will improve their safety. These suggestions were presented in a meeting held on October 28 in Lucknow, where commission members explored various ways to improve women's safety, The Times of India reported. Also read: Aligarh Muslim University's minority status to be decided by...: Indian SC “The discussions are preliminary. Feasibility of these proposals is yet to be decided. Once approved, these proposals will be submitted to the govt to draft a policy for ground-level implementation,” a commission member was cited saying by The Times of India. Meanwhile, Shamli district probation officer Hamid Hussain has asked local businesses to start implementing new safety measures including hiring female trainers or instructors in gyms, drama, and yoga centres for women, as well as installing CCTV systems with DVRs. Hussain told TOI that school buses will now need to have a female security guard or teacher. Meanwhile, boutiques are directed to hire female tailors to take measurements of women, with CCTV cameras in place for added security. Also read: 'Please do justice': Indian Americans seek Elon Musk's help for H-1B visa “Boutique centres must employ female tailors for taking measurements of women, with active CCTV monitoring. Additionally, coaching centres are required to have CCTV surveillance and proper restroom facilities. Stores selling women-specific clothing and accessories must also employ female staff to assist customers,” Hussain said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: UP panel suggests 'no male tailor should take women’s measurements' for safety

On the issue of entitling minority status for the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), the Indian Supreme Court (SC) ruled on Friday (Nov 8) that the status would not cease merely because Parliament enacted a law.

On the issue of entitling minority status for the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), the Indian Supreme Court (SC) ruled on Friday (Nov 8) that the status would not cease merely because Parliament enacted a law. The Supreme Court said that whether the university was a minority institution was now left to be decided by a regular bench based on this view of the majority. Earlier, the news agency ANI said in a post on X the SC bench ruled that AMU was entitled to minority status under Article 30 of the Constitution. This ruling was announced by a SC bench by a majority of 4:3. The bench was led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud. However, ANI deleted this post. 'AMU's minority status must be decided on...' The Supreme Court's majority verdict said that the issue of AMU's minority status must be decided based on tests laid down by the apex court. SC majority verdict says issue of AMU's minority status must be decided on basis of tests laid down by apex court. SC majority verdict lays down criteria for deciding AMU's status as minority institution. AMU minority status: SC says case papers be placed before CJI for… pic.twitter.com/GNDoTPoWiv — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 8, 2024 × The majority verdict laid down criteria for deciding AMU's status (as a minority institution). The apex court also said on Friday that case papers must be placed before the CJI for setting up a fresh bench to decide the validity of the 2006 Allahabad High Court verdict. What would have happened if minority status was entitled? On February 1, the Supreme Court reserved its verdict on the issue saying that the 1981 amendment to the AMU Act of 1920, only did a "half-hearted job" and did not restore to the institution the position it had before 1951. The act accorded a minority status to the university. A recent report by Livemint said that while the AMU Act spoke about incorporating a teaching and residential Muslim university in Aligarh, the 1951 amendment does away with compulsory religious instructions for Muslim students at the university. The report said that without a minority status, the university would have had to implement reservation policies for both teachers and students in a similar manner as other public universities in India do. But if AMU was entitled to minority status, the university could provide up to 50 per cent reservation for Muslim students. (With inputs from agencies)

Aligarh Muslim University's minority status to be decided by...: Indian Supreme Court

India's Yamuna River is filled with toxic foam right now. But that didn't deter devotees from taking a dip in the river on the occasion of Chhath Puja. A viral video on the internet shows a woman washing her hair with the froth floating around, shocking netizens.&nbsp;

Every year around this time froth appears on the surface of the river, but devotees are ignoring the warnings and going ahead with the festivities in the river, bathing and taking dips in the polluted water.&nbsp;

The woman in the video can be seen taking a bath in the river and even using the foam on her hair like shampoo. Several more women are with her standing in the knee-deep water with toxic foam&nbsp;floating around them.

People were shocked to see the women standing in the water and bathing. One user wrote, "Is this really happening?"&nbsp;

Another pointed out ironically that, "All that foam is not shampoo!"

Toxic foam can lead to various health hazards. A user stated that the woman would need to see a skin doctor in a few days.

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Arre didi woh shampoo nahi hai 😬🤮 <a href="https://t.co/4shRnYh8tW">pic.twitter.com/4shRnYh8tW</a>
— Manish RJ (@mrjethwani_) <a href="https://twitter.com/mrjethwani_/status/1854478085661348012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Others said that ignorance is leading them to be in the river with all that toxic foam around them.&nbsp;

"Education plays a crucial role here. It’s heartbreaking to see people using this water, unaware of the health issues they may face," one of the users said.

The foam seen in the river Yamuna is formed by high levels of untreated sewage and industrial pollutants, as per experts.&nbsp;

Chhath festival is the most popular festival in the Indian state of Bihar and in some parts of Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. As part of it, women devotees take a dip in the water once in the evening and then again the next morning. People who reside near the Yamuna choose to go there to complete the rituals, while others use makeshift water pits.

India's Yamuna River is filled with toxic foam right now. But that didn't deter devotees from taking a dip in the river on the occasion of Chhath Puja. A viral video on the internet shows a woman washing her hair with the froth floating around, shocking netizens.

India's Yamuna River is filled with toxic foam right now. But that didn't deter devotees from taking a dip in the river on the occasion of Chhath Puja. A viral video on the internet shows a woman washing her hair with the froth floating around, shocking netizens. Every year around this time froth appears on the surface of the river, but devotees are ignoring the warnings and going ahead with the festivities in the river, bathing and taking dips in the polluted water. The woman in the video can be seen taking a bath in the river and even using the foam on her hair like shampoo. Several more women are with her standing in the knee-deep water with toxic foam floating around them. People were shocked to see the women standing in the water and bathing. One user wrote, "Is this really happening?" Another pointed out ironically that, "All that foam is not shampoo!" Toxic foam can lead to various health hazards. A user stated that the woman would need to see a skin doctor in a few days. Arre didi woh shampoo nahi hai 😬🤮 pic.twitter.com/4shRnYh8tW — Manish RJ (@mrjethwani_) November 7, 2024 × Others said that ignorance is leading them to be in the river with all that toxic foam around them. "Education plays a crucial role here. It’s heartbreaking to see people using this water, unaware of the health issues they may face," one of the users said. The foam seen in the river Yamuna is formed by high levels of untreated sewage and industrial pollutants, as per experts. Chhath festival is the most popular festival in the Indian state of Bihar and in some parts of Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. As part of it, women devotees take a dip in the water once in the evening and then again the next morning. People who reside near the Yamuna choose to go there to complete the rituals, while others use makeshift water pits.

Woman seen applying toxic foam to her hair while bathing in Yamuna river

For days, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s controversial statement in the United States about India being “an enemy” has been doing rounds on the internet. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has responded to his comments on Thursday (Nov 7).&nbsp;

The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in the weekly briefing said he has not seen Lalduhoma's comments yet and will respond when they get some clarity on it.&nbsp;

"... We have had issues there [India-Myanmar border] because of the Myanmar security situation. We have talked about [border] fencing earlier, some of the proposals that are there, so I will come back to you after we have some clarity on that," Mr Jaiswal told reporters on Thursday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-high-court-lifts-36-year-import-ban-on-salman-rushdies-the-satanic-verses-due-to-missing-notification-774455">Delhi High Court lifts 36-year import ban on Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses due to missing notification</a>

Manipur’s Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also reacted to Lalduhoma’s comment, saying, that anyone attempting to challenge the unity and integrity of Manipur or India would receive a fitting response. But what exactly Mizoram’s CM said in the US?

<h2>What sparked controversy over Mizoram CM’s statement in the US?</h2>

The Mizoram CM gave a speech in Indianapolis during a Mizo Day event, on September 4. It had two instances that have been shared and reported widely.&nbsp;

There he explained why "we cannot afford to have three enemies which are bigger than us", and explained towards the end of the speech why he accepted the invitation to visit the US.

The Mizoram Chief Minister's "cannot fight three enemies simultaneously" comment has been taken out of context on social media, with clips of this speech beginning only from the middle being shared. The three enemies included Myanmar, India and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

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Mizoram CM calls India an enemy (at a Baptist Church event in the USA, 4th Sep, 2024). 
 
Mizoram is the state through which allegedly huge numbers of Kuki infiltrators reach Manipur! 
 
Shocking as this has gone unreported till date and no action taken!<a href="https://t.co/cWQcvbK7ze">pic.twitter.com/cWQcvbK7ze</a>
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeghUpdates/status/1854521046860202283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Lalduhoma was referring to a point in time when Mizoram had just become a state in 1987 after a violent insurgency, and the formation of the Zo Reunification Organisation, or ZORO, a year later.

The entire controversy arose from the later portion of his speech, where he said,&nbsp;"I want to let everyone here know that the primary reason I accepted the invitation to visit the United States."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-canada-cop-exposes-trudeau-says-ottawa-welcoming-criminals-gangsters-from-india-774471">Ex-Canada cop exposes Trudeau, says Ottawa welcoming criminals, gangsters from India</a>

"We are one people - brothers and sisters - and we cannot afford to be divided or apart from one another. I want us to have the conviction and confidence that one day, through the strength of God, who made us a nation, we will rise together under one leadership to achieve our destiny of nationhood. While a country may have borders, a true nation transcends such limitations. We have been unjustly divided, forced to exist under three different governments in three different countries, and this is something we can never accept..."

No clarification has been provided from the Mizoram government on the cryptic statement by CM, as of now.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

For days, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s controversial statement in the United States about India being “an enemy” has been doing rounds on the internet. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has responded to his comments on Thursday (Nov 7).

For days, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s controversial statement in the United States about India being “an enemy” has been doing rounds on the internet. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has responded to his comments on Thursday (Nov 7). The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in the weekly briefing said he has not seen Lalduhoma's comments yet and will respond when they get some clarity on it. "... We have had issues there [India-Myanmar border] because of the Myanmar security situation. We have talked about [border] fencing earlier, some of the proposals that are there, so I will come back to you after we have some clarity on that," Mr Jaiswal told reporters on Thursday. Also Read | Delhi High Court lifts 36-year import ban on Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses due to missing notification Manipur’s Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also reacted to Lalduhoma’s comment, saying, that anyone attempting to challenge the unity and integrity of Manipur or India would receive a fitting response. But what exactly Mizoram’s CM said in the US? What sparked controversy over Mizoram CM’s statement in the US? The Mizoram CM gave a speech in Indianapolis during a Mizo Day event, on September 4. It had two instances that have been shared and reported widely. There he explained why "we cannot afford to have three enemies which are bigger than us", and explained towards the end of the speech why he accepted the invitation to visit the US. The Mizoram Chief Minister's "cannot fight three enemies simultaneously" comment has been taken out of context on social media, with clips of this speech beginning only from the middle being shared. The three enemies included Myanmar, India and Bangladesh. Mizoram CM calls India an enemy (at a Baptist Church event in the USA, 4th Sep, 2024). Mizoram is the state through which allegedly huge numbers of Kuki infiltrators reach Manipur! Shocking as this has gone unreported till date and no action taken!pic.twitter.com/cWQcvbK7ze — Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) November 7, 2024 × Lalduhoma was referring to a point in time when Mizoram had just become a state in 1987 after a violent insurgency, and the formation of the Zo Reunification Organisation, or ZORO, a year later. The entire controversy arose from the later portion of his speech, where he said, "I want to let everyone here know that the primary reason I accepted the invitation to visit the United States." Also Read | Ex-Canada cop exposes Trudeau, says Ottawa welcoming criminals, gangsters from India "We are one people - brothers and sisters - and we cannot afford to be divided or apart from one another. I want us to have the conviction and confidence that one day, through the strength of God, who made us a nation, we will rise together under one leadership to achieve our destiny of nationhood. While a country may have borders, a true nation transcends such limitations. We have been unjustly divided, forced to exist under three different governments in three different countries, and this is something we can never accept..." No clarification has been provided from the Mizoram government on the cryptic statement by CM, as of now. (With inputs from agencies)

MEA responds to Mizoram CM Lalduhoma's controversial statement at US event

The situation of air pollution continues to deteriorate in the Delhi NCR region, a housing society in Gurugram conducted “artificial rain” on Thursday (Nov 7). They used sprinklers from a high-rise building and conducted artificial rain to counter the problem of rising pollution.&nbsp;

The DLF Primus Society of Gurugram, Sector-82, carried out artificial rain from the fire lines of a 32-floor high-rise building to combat pollution. The Resident Welfare Association (RWA) took the initiative of artificial rain and carpooling to control pollution.&nbsp;

The president of RWA&nbsp; Achal Yadav, as per ANI, said, "We are conducting artificial rain from the fire lines of the 32-storey high-rise towers to control air pollution in the area. If AQI increases in Gurugram, we are ready to conduct it every day. We have also taken other steps including car-pooling to control pollution." He added, "The government alone cannot do this work. Everyone will have to participate in it. Pollution is a huge problem.”&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | President, RWA, DLF Primus Sector-82, Achal Yadav says "We are conducting artificial rain from the fire lines of the 32-storeyed high-rise towers to control air pollution in the area. If AQI increases in Gurugram, we are ready to conduct this every day. We have also… <a href="https://t.co/h1VwC3Dify">pic.twitter.com/h1VwC3Dify</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1854478717629899041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-centre-doubles-penalty-for-farmers-burning-crop-residue-amid-deteriorating-air-quality-delhi-ncr-774396">India: Centre doubles penalty for farmers burning crop residue over deteriorating Delhi-NCR air quality</a>

A video has emerged on social media showing artificial rain being conducted in a residential complex, with water seen drizzling from the top of a 32-storeys-high building.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Haryana: "Artificial rain" conducted using sprinklers from high rise building in DLF Primus Society, Sector 82 Gurugram to control air pollution. <a href="https://t.co/ptWlqwVask">pic.twitter.com/ptWlqwVask</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1854474245683961912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Artificial rain, also known as cloud seeding, is conducted by injecting substances like dry ice and silver iodide into the atmosphere to increase precipitation.&nbsp;

Delhi-NCR’s AQI has reached the “severe” category, with more than 17 weather stations recording an AQI above 400, which is life-threatening to people, especially those with Asthma or weak immunity.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ruckus-breaks-out-in-jammu-and-kashmir-assembly-over-article-370-banner-video-774232">India: Ruckus in Jammu and Kashmir assembly over display of Article 370 banner | Video</a>

Gopal Rai, the Delhi Environment Minister, said that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government is also planning to conduct artificial rain in the national capital to counter the worsening situation of pollution.

To control Delhi's pollution, the centre has also released a notification which has doubled the fine for farmers practising stubble burning in the NCR region.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The situation of air pollution continues to deteriorate in the Delhi NCR region, a housing society in Gurugram conducted “artificial rain” on Thursday (Nov 7). They used sprinklers from a high-rise building and conducted artificial rain to counter the problem of rising pollution.

The situation of air pollution continues to deteriorate in the Delhi NCR region, a housing society in Gurugram conducted “artificial rain” on Thursday (Nov 7). They used sprinklers from a high-rise building and conducted artificial rain to counter the problem of rising pollution. The DLF Primus Society of Gurugram, Sector-82, carried out artificial rain from the fire lines of a 32-floor high-rise building to combat pollution. The Resident Welfare Association (RWA) took the initiative of artificial rain and carpooling to control pollution. The president of RWA Achal Yadav, as per ANI, said, "We are conducting artificial rain from the fire lines of the 32-storey high-rise towers to control air pollution in the area. If AQI increases in Gurugram, we are ready to conduct it every day. We have also taken other steps including car-pooling to control pollution." He added, "The government alone cannot do this work. Everyone will have to participate in it. Pollution is a huge problem.” #WATCH | President, RWA, DLF Primus Sector-82, Achal Yadav says "We are conducting artificial rain from the fire lines of the 32-storeyed high-rise towers to control air pollution in the area. If AQI increases in Gurugram, we are ready to conduct this every day. We have also… pic.twitter.com/h1VwC3Dify — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2024 × Also Read | India: Centre doubles penalty for farmers burning crop residue over deteriorating Delhi-NCR air quality A video has emerged on social media showing artificial rain being conducted in a residential complex, with water seen drizzling from the top of a 32-storeys-high building. #WATCH | Haryana: "Artificial rain" conducted using sprinklers from high rise building in DLF Primus Society, Sector 82 Gurugram to control air pollution. pic.twitter.com/ptWlqwVask — ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2024 × Artificial rain, also known as cloud seeding, is conducted by injecting substances like dry ice and silver iodide into the atmosphere to increase precipitation. Delhi-NCR’s AQI has reached the “severe” category, with more than 17 weather stations recording an AQI above 400, which is life-threatening to people, especially those with Asthma or weak immunity. Also Read | India: Ruckus in Jammu and Kashmir assembly over display of Article 370 banner | Video Gopal Rai, the Delhi Environment Minister, said that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government is also planning to conduct artificial rain in the national capital to counter the worsening situation of pollution. To control Delhi's pollution, the centre has also released a notification which has doubled the fine for farmers practising stubble burning in the NCR region. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Gurugram’s housing society conducts ‘artificial rain’ to combat pollution as AQI exceeds 400

An Indian man felt the social media’s wrath after he went on a rant about his “Gen Z” colleague taking a one-week leave to deal with his breakup. The man, Krishna Mohan, took to social media and expressed his opinion about the situation and ended up getting trolled by many.&nbsp;

Mohan took to X and spoke about how his “Gen Z” colleague wanted to go to the mountains to heal from his breakup in between a very important project.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rupee-falls-5-paise-hits-record-low-of-8437-against-us-dollar-774594">Rupee falls 5 paise, hits record low of 84.37 against US dollar</a>

Mohan wrote,&nbsp;“One of my Gen Z team members suddenly declared 1 week leave. It was a critical time of the project so I tried to reason. He did not budge. The leave was because he had a breakup and he wanted to go to the mountains to forget the breakup.”

In the following post, he said that it was not a two-way communication, and he had dealt with the negative impact it had on the project alone.&nbsp;

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One of my Gen z team members suddenly declared 1 week leave. It was a critical time of the project so I tried to reason. He did not budge. The leave was because he had a breakup and he wanted to go to the mountains to forget the breakup.
— Krishna Mohan (@KiMoJiRa) <a href="https://twitter.com/KiMoJiRa/status/1854042918937321477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Soon after Mohan’s post went viral, he started facing criticism from social media users. Netizens accused him of not considering his employee’s mental health important.&nbsp;

One X user wrote: “It's better to give them a break than overwhelm them with deadlines when they are already under the weather. Less suicidal tendencies, the better.”

Another user posted, “So what ??? I think his mental health is more important than your critical project and FYI you die working on a project company will replace you like they replace garbage cans daily. So stop glorifying Sir.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/south-india-is-being-asked-to-have-more-babies-is-it-sitting-on-a-population-time-bomb-774560">South India is being asked to have more babies. Is it sitting on a population time bomb?&nbsp;</a>

Following the outrage, Mohan tried to calm down the people by informing them that his colleague had not been fired and even got promoted for his good work. He wrote: &nbsp;“Mate. No need to assume the worst. The guy is still in my team and has even been promoted for his good work. I was just stating how Gen Z's are doing things differently.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

An Indian man felt the social media’s wrath after he went on a rant about his “Gen Z” colleague taking a one-week leave to deal with his breakup. The man, Krishna Mohan, took to social media and expressed his opinion about the situation and ended up getting trolled by many.

An Indian man felt the social media’s wrath after he went on a rant about his “Gen Z” colleague taking a one-week leave to deal with his breakup. The man, Krishna Mohan, took to social media and expressed his opinion about the situation and ended up getting trolled by many. Mohan took to X and spoke about how his “Gen Z” colleague wanted to go to the mountains to heal from his breakup in between a very important project. Also Read | Rupee falls 5 paise, hits record low of 84.37 against US dollar Mohan wrote, “One of my Gen Z team members suddenly declared 1 week leave. It was a critical time of the project so I tried to reason. He did not budge. The leave was because he had a breakup and he wanted to go to the mountains to forget the breakup.” In the following post, he said that it was not a two-way communication, and he had dealt with the negative impact it had on the project alone. One of my Gen z team members suddenly declared 1 week leave. It was a critical time of the project so I tried to reason. He did not budge. The leave was because he had a breakup and he wanted to go to the mountains to forget the breakup. — Krishna Mohan (@KiMoJiRa) November 6, 2024 × Soon after Mohan’s post went viral, he started facing criticism from social media users. Netizens accused him of not considering his employee’s mental health important. One X user wrote: “It's better to give them a break than overwhelm them with deadlines when they are already under the weather. Less suicidal tendencies, the better.” Another user posted, “So what ??? I think his mental health is more important than your critical project and FYI you die working on a project company will replace you like they replace garbage cans daily. So stop glorifying Sir.” Also Read | South India is being asked to have more babies. Is it sitting on a population time bomb? Following the outrage, Mohan tried to calm down the people by informing them that his colleague had not been fired and even got promoted for his good work. He wrote: “Mate. No need to assume the worst. The guy is still in my team and has even been promoted for his good work. I was just stating how Gen Z's are doing things differently.” (With inputs from agencies)

Man rants about Gen Z colleague for taking a week off to deal with breakup, gets slammed by netizens

The rupee fell 5 paise to an all-time low of 84.37 against the US dollar in early trade on Friday, weighed down by persistent foreign fund outflows and a muted trend in domestic equities.

Forex traders said the US Federal Reserve’s recent decision to cut interest rates signals a shift in the global financial landscape. Moreover, with Donald Trump’s tax and trade policies influencing global markets, volatility could re-enter the rupee’s trajectory.

At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 84.32 against the greenback, then it fell further to an all-time low of 84.37, registering a rise of 5 paise over its previous close.

On Thursday, the rupee slipped 1 paisa to close at a fresh lifetime low of 84.32 against the US dollar.

“The spotlight will now be on the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and how effectively it navigates this shifting currency landscape. In such a dynamic environment, only those who adapt swiftly will thrive in the market ahead,” CR Forex Advisors Managing Director Amit Pabari said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-supreme-court-rules-aligarh-muslim-university-is-entitled-to-minority-status-774537">Aligarh Muslim University's minority status to be decided by...: Indian SC</a>

In its latest monetary policy announcement, the US Fed reduced its benchmark rate by 0.25 basis points to a target range of 4.5 per cent-4.75 per cent.

In its accompanying statement, the Fed adopted a neutral-to-dovish tone, acknowledging balanced risks in inflation and employment.

Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading marginally higher by 0.02 per cent at 104.53.

Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.65 per cent to USD 75.14 per barrel in futures trade.

“In this dynamic environment, volatility in the USD/INR pair is expected, with the RBI likely maintaining a range between 83.80 and 84.50. If the dollar’s momentum stalls amid future Fed rate cuts and weakening investor confidence, the rupee could gradually strengthen toward the lower end of this range,” Pabari said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nvidia-surpasses-36-trillion-market-value-after-trump-win-774511">Nvidia surpasses $3.6 trillion market value after Trump election victory</a>

On the domestic equity market front, Sensex declined 14.23 points, or 0.02 per cent, to 79,527.56 points. The Nifty fell 15.45 points, or 0.06 per cent, to 24,183.90 points.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net sellers in the capital markets on Thursday, as they offloaded shares worth Rs 4,888.77 crore, according to exchange data.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The rupee fell 5 paise to an all-time low of 84.37 against the US dollar in early trade on Friday, weighed down by persistent foreign fund outflows and a muted trend in domestic equities.

The rupee fell 5 paise to an all-time low of 84.37 against the US dollar in early trade on Friday, weighed down by persistent foreign fund outflows and a muted trend in domestic equities. Forex traders said the US Federal Reserve’s recent decision to cut interest rates signals a shift in the global financial landscape. Moreover, with Donald Trump’s tax and trade policies influencing global markets, volatility could re-enter the rupee’s trajectory. At the interbank foreign exchange, the rupee opened at 84.32 against the greenback, then it fell further to an all-time low of 84.37, registering a rise of 5 paise over its previous close. On Thursday, the rupee slipped 1 paisa to close at a fresh lifetime low of 84.32 against the US dollar. “The spotlight will now be on the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and how effectively it navigates this shifting currency landscape. In such a dynamic environment, only those who adapt swiftly will thrive in the market ahead,” CR Forex Advisors Managing Director Amit Pabari said. Also read: Aligarh Muslim University's minority status to be decided by...: Indian SC In its latest monetary policy announcement, the US Fed reduced its benchmark rate by 0.25 basis points to a target range of 4.5 per cent-4.75 per cent. In its accompanying statement, the Fed adopted a neutral-to-dovish tone, acknowledging balanced risks in inflation and employment. Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback’s strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading marginally higher by 0.02 per cent at 104.53. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.65 per cent to USD 75.14 per barrel in futures trade. “In this dynamic environment, volatility in the USD/INR pair is expected, with the RBI likely maintaining a range between 83.80 and 84.50. If the dollar’s momentum stalls amid future Fed rate cuts and weakening investor confidence, the rupee could gradually strengthen toward the lower end of this range,” Pabari said. Also read: Nvidia surpasses $3.6 trillion market value after Trump election victory On the domestic equity market front, Sensex declined 14.23 points, or 0.02 per cent, to 79,527.56 points. The Nifty fell 15.45 points, or 0.06 per cent, to 24,183.90 points. Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) were net sellers in the capital markets on Thursday, as they offloaded shares worth Rs 4,888.77 crore, according to exchange data. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rupee falls 5 paise, hits record low of 84.37 against US dollar

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (Nov 6) rejected requests from devotees to hold Chhath Puja on the banks of the Yamuna river, citing severe water pollution and the presence of harmful foam.

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) had been submitted to the court challenging the ban on the ritual, asking that worshippers be allowed to celebrate on the river’s banks. The petitioner’s lawyer argued that the ghats and river should be cleaned for the festival. However, the court stated that such a task could not be achieved overnight due to its complexity.

The case was heard by a division bench of Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, rejected the plea from the Purvanchal Nav Nirman Sansthan, which had sought permission for devotees to conduct Chhath Puja on the Yamuna’s bank.

The court said, “If you want to get involved in the cleaning-up process, work over there. The problem is, we cannot be discharging sewage into the Yamuna. We are today discharging sewage into the Yamuna. Look at the unauthorised colonies built on the banks and the untreated sewage.”

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The court added, "Today, our mindset needs to be clean. The problem is, in our mind, that the Yamuna is uncleaned. We are not cleaning our minds. If you can clean that, then you can clean Yamuna very quickly."

The court continued, “It will be very harmful to you. The fact is that the river is so polluted that if you dip into it, there is the likelihood that. A person will suffer harm. We can’t allow that. The river itself is highly polluted.”

The High Court also referred to a recent incident where someone fell ill and required hospitalisation after bathing in contaminated water.

The court said that approximately 1,000 alternative sites had been arranged for the festival, providing safe options for devotees to perform the ritual.

Chhath Puja is set to be celebrated on Thursday, with the Delhi government declaring a public holiday for the occasion. Despite the Yamuna being covered with toxic foam due to high pollution levels and untreated sewage containing phosphates and surfactants, devotees traditionally offer prayers by taking a dip and facing the Sun.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (Nov 6) rejected requests from devotees to hold Chhath Puja on the banks of the Yamuna river, citing severe water pollution and the presence of harmful foam.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (Nov 6) rejected requests from devotees to hold Chhath Puja on the banks of the Yamuna river, citing severe water pollution and the presence of harmful foam. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) had been submitted to the court challenging the ban on the ritual, asking that worshippers be allowed to celebrate on the river’s banks. The petitioner’s lawyer argued that the ghats and river should be cleaned for the festival. However, the court stated that such a task could not be achieved overnight due to its complexity. The case was heard by a division bench of Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, rejected the plea from the Purvanchal Nav Nirman Sansthan, which had sought permission for devotees to conduct Chhath Puja on the Yamuna’s bank. The court said, “If you want to get involved in the cleaning-up process, work over there. The problem is, we cannot be discharging sewage into the Yamuna. We are today discharging sewage into the Yamuna. Look at the unauthorised colonies built on the banks and the untreated sewage.” Also read: Congress dissolves entire Himachal Pradesh unit along with district, and block units The court added, "Today, our mindset needs to be clean. The problem is, in our mind, that the Yamuna is uncleaned. We are not cleaning our minds. If you can clean that, then you can clean Yamuna very quickly." The court continued, “It will be very harmful to you. The fact is that the river is so polluted that if you dip into it, there is the likelihood that. A person will suffer harm. We can’t allow that. The river itself is highly polluted.” The High Court also referred to a recent incident where someone fell ill and required hospitalisation after bathing in contaminated water. The court said that approximately 1,000 alternative sites had been arranged for the festival, providing safe options for devotees to perform the ritual. Chhath Puja is set to be celebrated on Thursday, with the Delhi government declaring a public holiday for the occasion. Despite the Yamuna being covered with toxic foam due to high pollution levels and untreated sewage containing phosphates and surfactants, devotees traditionally offer prayers by taking a dip and facing the Sun. (With inputs from agencies)

‘We can’t allow that’: Delhi High Court rejects plea for Chhath Puja at Yamuna banks over toxic foam

Two members of the Village Defence Guards (VDGs) were kidnapped and killed by suspected terrorists in the forests of the Kishtwar district in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday (Nov.

Two members of the Village Defence Guards (VDGs) were kidnapped and killed by suspected terrorists in the forests of the Kishtwar district in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday (Nov. 7). The victims, identified as Nazir Ahmad and Kuldip Kumar, have not yet been found, and security forces have initiated a large-scale search operation to find their bodies. The incident took place in a forested area of Kishtwar, a region that sees occasional militant activity. While officials have not confirmed who is behind the attack, a group calling itself the Kashmir Tigers has claimed responsibility for the killings in an unverified post on social media. Encounter breaks out in J&K's Sopore during search operation In a separate incident, a gunfight broke out between Indian security forces and terrorists on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Sopore district. The incident took place in Sagipora, and it is believed that two or three militants were trapped in the area. Also read: Canada censors Australia Today over presser, India blasts Ottawa’s ‘hypocrisy’ A cordon and search operation was launched after the military got to know about terrorists' presence in the area. The operation was carried out by the Indian Army in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG). OP PANIPURA, #Baramulla On 07 Nov 24, based on specific intelligence regarding presence of terrorists, a joint Operation launched by the #IndianArmy & @JmuKmrPolice in Panipura, Sopore, #Baramulla. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged… pic.twitter.com/BXT76uwqVZ — Chinar Corps🍁 - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) November 7, 2024 × The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army posted on X, "On 07 Nov 24, based on specific intelligence regarding presence of terrorists, a joint Operation launched by the #IndianArmy & @JmuKmrPolice in Panipura, Sopore, #Baramulla. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged terrorists opened indiscriminate fire. Own troops effectively retaliated." Last week, a senior Lashkar commander, Usman, also known as Chota Waleed, was killed in an encounter in the Khanyar area of Srinagar. Four security personnel were injured in the encounter, including two CRPF jawans and two policemen. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Terrorists kidnap and kill two Village Defence Guards in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar

The Delhi High Court on Thursday (Nov. 7) lifted the 36-year-old import ban on author Salman Rushdie’s controversial book, ‘The Satanic Verses’, stating that the Customs notification banning its import could not be found, reported Bar and Bench.&nbsp;

This case dates back to 1988 when the &nbsp;Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) imposed a ban on the import of Rushdie’s controversial novel during the Rajiv Gandhi-led government.

The CBIC failed to produce the said notification of the ban dated October 5, 1988, and admitted that it “is untraceable”.

A division bench of the court declared the plea as infructuous on November 5 and noted that it has no other option “except to presume that no such notification exists.”

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It further clarified that the petitioner will be “entitled to take all actions in respect of the said book as available in law.”

The bench ruled, “From the aforesaid, what emerges is that none of the respondents could produce the said notification dated 05.10.1988 with which the petitioner (Khan) is purportedly aggrieved and, in fact, the purported author of the said notification has also shown his helplessness in producing a copy of the said notification during the pendency of the present writ petition since its filing way back in 2019… In light of the aforesaid circumstances, we have no other option except to presume that no such notification exists, and, therefore, we cannot examine the validity thereof and dispose of the writ petition as infructuous.”

In 2019, the petitioner Sandipan Khan, represented by advocate Uddyam Mukherjee moved the Delhi High Court after he was unable to import the book as it got banned.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Salman Rushdie stabbing trial delayed, Rushdie's memoir 'Knife' reveals details of attack

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He was also told by bookstores that the book is not permitted to be sold in India, adding that the book is not published in India.&nbsp;

The Satanic Verses is the fourth novel by the Indian-British writer Salman Rushdie.&nbsp;

However now, the Delhi HC’s decision has lifted the ban on the import of Rushdie’s book in India,&nbsp;signalling the end of a long-standing ban.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Delhi High Court on Thursday (Nov. 7) lifted the 36-year-old import ban on author Salman Rushdie’s controversial book, ‘The Satanic Verses’, stating that the Customs notification banning its import could not be found, reported Bar and Bench.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday (Nov. 7) lifted the 36-year-old import ban on author Salman Rushdie’s controversial book, ‘The Satanic Verses’, stating that the Customs notification banning its import could not be found, reported Bar and Bench. This case dates back to 1988 when the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) imposed a ban on the import of Rushdie’s controversial novel during the Rajiv Gandhi-led government. The CBIC failed to produce the said notification of the ban dated October 5, 1988, and admitted that it “is untraceable”. A division bench of the court declared the plea as infructuous on November 5 and noted that it has no other option “except to presume that no such notification exists.” Also read: Salman Rushdie’s would be-assassin charged with supporting terror group Hezbollah It further clarified that the petitioner will be “entitled to take all actions in respect of the said book as available in law.” The bench ruled, “From the aforesaid, what emerges is that none of the respondents could produce the said notification dated 05.10.1988 with which the petitioner (Khan) is purportedly aggrieved and, in fact, the purported author of the said notification has also shown his helplessness in producing a copy of the said notification during the pendency of the present writ petition since its filing way back in 2019… In light of the aforesaid circumstances, we have no other option except to presume that no such notification exists, and, therefore, we cannot examine the validity thereof and dispose of the writ petition as infructuous.” In 2019, the petitioner Sandipan Khan, represented by advocate Uddyam Mukherjee moved the Delhi High Court after he was unable to import the book as it got banned. Watch | Salman Rushdie stabbing trial delayed, Rushdie's memoir 'Knife' reveals details of attack × He was also told by bookstores that the book is not permitted to be sold in India, adding that the book is not published in India. The Satanic Verses is the fourth novel by the Indian-British writer Salman Rushdie. However now, the Delhi HC’s decision has lifted the ban on the import of Rushdie’s book in India, signalling the end of a long-standing ban. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi High Court lifts 36-year import ban on Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses due to missing notification

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, alleged on Thursday (Nov. 7) that some "fair-playing businesses" were asked by a "senior minister" to publicly support Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media. This claim followed Gandhi’s recent opinion piece, where he criticised the influence of "monopolists" over government institutions and argued that many fair-minded businesses were struggling under the government.

Gandhi posted on X, "After my article, many play-fair businesses are telling me that a senior Minister has been calling and forcing them to say good things on social media about PM Modi and the government's programmes. Proves my point exactly!" He did not specify which companies reportedly received these calls.

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On Wednesday, Gandhi shared an opinion piece in which he discussed what he called a “match-fixing” arrangement between powerful businesses and the government. He claimed that the current administration is favouring monopolies, which stifle competition and restrict the growth of smaller businesses.

Gandhi wrote, "In contrast to the 'match-fixing' monopoly groups, there is a larger number of amazing 'play-fair' Indian businesses, from micro-enterprises to large corporations, but you are silent. You persevere in an oppressive system." He added that many of India's brilliant and dynamic business leaders were intimidated by these monopolists.&nbsp;

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"The government cannot be allowed to support one business at the expense of all others, much less support benami equations in the business system. Government agencies are not weapons to be used to attack and intimidate businesses," he wrote.

In his article, Gandhi also addressed criticism from the BJP, saying, "I want to make something absolutely clear. I have been projected by my opponents in the BJP to be anti-business. I am not anti-business, in the least. I am anti-monopoly. I am anti-creating oligopolies. I am anti-domination by one or two or 3 or 5 people."

Sharing his article on X, Gandhi wrote, "Choose your India: Play-Fair or Monopoly? Jobs or Oligarchies? Competence or Connections? Innovation or Intimidation? Wealth for many or the few?"

(With inputs from agencies)

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, alleged on Thursday (Nov. 7) that some "fair-playing businesses" were asked by a "senior minister" to publicly support Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media.

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, alleged on Thursday (Nov. 7) that some "fair-playing businesses" were asked by a "senior minister" to publicly support Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media. This claim followed Gandhi’s recent opinion piece, where he criticised the influence of "monopolists" over government institutions and argued that many fair-minded businesses were struggling under the government. Gandhi posted on X, "After my article, many play-fair businesses are telling me that a senior Minister has been calling and forcing them to say good things on social media about PM Modi and the government's programmes. Proves my point exactly!" He did not specify which companies reportedly received these calls. Also read: Canada censors Australia Today over presser, India blasts Ottawa’s ‘hypocrisy’ On Wednesday, Gandhi shared an opinion piece in which he discussed what he called a “match-fixing” arrangement between powerful businesses and the government. He claimed that the current administration is favouring monopolies, which stifle competition and restrict the growth of smaller businesses. Gandhi wrote, "In contrast to the 'match-fixing' monopoly groups, there is a larger number of amazing 'play-fair' Indian businesses, from micro-enterprises to large corporations, but you are silent. You persevere in an oppressive system." He added that many of India's brilliant and dynamic business leaders were intimidated by these monopolists. Also read: India's Supreme Court orders Jet Airways liquidation "The government cannot be allowed to support one business at the expense of all others, much less support benami equations in the business system. Government agencies are not weapons to be used to attack and intimidate businesses," he wrote. In his article, Gandhi also addressed criticism from the BJP, saying, "I want to make something absolutely clear. I have been projected by my opponents in the BJP to be anti-business. I am not anti-business, in the least. I am anti-monopoly. I am anti-creating oligopolies. I am anti-domination by one or two or 3 or 5 people." Sharing his article on X, Gandhi wrote, "Choose your India: Play-Fair or Monopoly? Jobs or Oligarchies? Competence or Connections? Innovation or Intimidation? Wealth for many or the few?" (With inputs from agencies)

India: LoP Rahul Gandhi claims 'senior minister' is pressuring 'play-fair businesses' to praise PM Modi

The BJP has accused the Congress party of distributing “blank copies of the Constitution” at Rahul Gandhi’s Samvidhan Samman Sammelan convention in Nagpur.

BJP said that this act by Congress insulted the Constitution and Dr. B R Ambedkar, revealing an anti-reservation and anti-Constitution stance. A video shared by the Maharashtra BJP on social media showed books labelled as the "Constitution of India" on the cover but containing blank pages, apart from the preamble on the first page.

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala slammed Congress, saying, “Insulting the Constitution and BR Ambedkar is the true identity of Congress. At their so-called Samvidhan Samman Sammelan, Congress distributed copies of the Constitution. The cover was red, instead of the usual blue.”&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/internet-decries-taxi-mafia-as-goas-foreign-tourism-sees-massive-decline-774346">Internet decries ‘taxi mafia’ as Goa’s foreign tourism sees massive decline</a>

He added, “Strangely, the inside of the copies was blank. This is an insult to the Constitution and a grave insult to Ambedkar. Congress has repeatedly insulted the Constitution and Ambedkar in this manner. They defeated Ambedkar in elections twice. Recently, Ambedkar’s picture was placed on the ground. Nehru spoke against reservations in 1961, and both Indira and Rajiv Gandhi opposed the Mandal Commission’s recommendations.”

In response, Congress accused the BJP of spreading a false narrative. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar clarified that attendees at the event were given a notebook and pen, not blank copies of the Constitution. Congress also posted on X, saying, “The whole of India knows that BJP and RSS are the enemies of the real Constitution, no matter how much they try to spread a false narrative by putting the cover of the Constitution on a blank book.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-cant-allow-that-delhi-high-court-rejects-plea-for-chhath-puja-at-yamuna-banks-over-toxic-foam-774134">‘We can’t allow that’: Delhi High Court rejects plea for Chhath Puja at Yamuna banks over toxic foam</a>

The Congress further commented that the BJP aims to weaken the Constitution by making false allegations against its defenders, adding, “But under the leadership of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the Constitution-loving people of the country will never allow this cunning plan of BJP to succeed.”

Another point of criticism was the colour of the copy held by Rahul Gandhi. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticised Gandhi for holding a “red book,” which he claimed symbolised an inclination towards “urban Naxals and anarchists.”&nbsp;

He said, “My allegations made two days back against Rahul Gandhi have proved true about his inclination towards ‘urban Naxals’. He showed the red book and tried seeking help politically from urban Naxals and anarchists. Rahul Gandhi indulges in such drama regularly and daily disrespects the Constitution in some or other way.”

The Maharashtra Assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with the vote count set for November 23. In the previous elections, held in 2019, the BJP won 105 seats, Shiv Sena 56, and Congress 44. In 2014, the BJP had secured 122 seats, Shiv Sena 63, and Congress 42.

(With inputs from agencies)

The BJP has accused the Congress party of distributing “blank copies of the Constitution” at Rahul Gandhi’s Samvidhan Samman Sammelan convention in Nagpur. BJP said that this act by Congress insulted the Constitution and Dr.

The BJP has accused the Congress party of distributing “blank copies of the Constitution” at Rahul Gandhi’s Samvidhan Samman Sammelan convention in Nagpur. BJP said that this act by Congress insulted the Constitution and Dr. B R Ambedkar, revealing an anti-reservation and anti-Constitution stance. A video shared by the Maharashtra BJP on social media showed books labelled as the "Constitution of India" on the cover but containing blank pages, apart from the preamble on the first page. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala slammed Congress, saying, “Insulting the Constitution and BR Ambedkar is the true identity of Congress. At their so-called Samvidhan Samman Sammelan, Congress distributed copies of the Constitution. The cover was red, instead of the usual blue.” Also read: Internet decries ‘taxi mafia’ as Goa’s foreign tourism sees massive decline He added, “Strangely, the inside of the copies was blank. This is an insult to the Constitution and a grave insult to Ambedkar. Congress has repeatedly insulted the Constitution and Ambedkar in this manner. They defeated Ambedkar in elections twice. Recently, Ambedkar’s picture was placed on the ground. Nehru spoke against reservations in 1961, and both Indira and Rajiv Gandhi opposed the Mandal Commission’s recommendations.” In response, Congress accused the BJP of spreading a false narrative. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar clarified that attendees at the event were given a notebook and pen, not blank copies of the Constitution. Congress also posted on X, saying, “The whole of India knows that BJP and RSS are the enemies of the real Constitution, no matter how much they try to spread a false narrative by putting the cover of the Constitution on a blank book.” Also read: ‘We can’t allow that’: Delhi High Court rejects plea for Chhath Puja at Yamuna banks over toxic foam The Congress further commented that the BJP aims to weaken the Constitution by making false allegations against its defenders, adding, “But under the leadership of Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, the Constitution-loving people of the country will never allow this cunning plan of BJP to succeed.” Another point of criticism was the colour of the copy held by Rahul Gandhi. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticised Gandhi for holding a “red book,” which he claimed symbolised an inclination towards “urban Naxals and anarchists.” He said, “My allegations made two days back against Rahul Gandhi have proved true about his inclination towards ‘urban Naxals’. He showed the red book and tried seeking help politically from urban Naxals and anarchists. Rahul Gandhi indulges in such drama regularly and daily disrespects the Constitution in some or other way.” The Maharashtra Assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with the vote count set for November 23. In the previous elections, held in 2019, the BJP won 105 seats, Shiv Sena 56, and Congress 44. In 2014, the BJP had secured 122 seats, Shiv Sena 63, and Congress 42. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP slams Congress for distributing ‘blank’ Constitution copies at Rahul Gandhi event; Congress responds

The Centre has doubled the fine for farmers burning crop residue in view of the deteriorating air quality in the Delhi-NCR region, the penalty going up to Rs 30,000 for those with more than five acres of farmland. According to the notification, which was published on Wednesday and comes following the Supreme Court's tough stance on the issue, farmers with less than two acres of land will now have to pay environmental compensation of Rs 5,000, up from Rs 2,500. And those with land between two and five acres will be fined Rs 10,000 instead of Rs 5,000.

Unfavourable meteorological conditions combined with vehicular emissions, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources contribute to hazardous air quality levels in Delhi-NCR during late autumn and winter.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ruckus-breaks-out-in-jammu-and-kashmir-assembly-over-article-370-banner-video-774232">India: Ruckus in Jammu and Kashmir assembly over display of Article 370 banner | Video</a>

According to a Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) analysis, the city experiences peak pollution from November 1 to 15 when the number of stubble-burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana increases.

Major factors behind stubble burning include the paddy-wheat cropping system, cultivation of long-duration paddy varieties, mechanised harvesting that leaves standing crop stubble in the field, labour scarcity, and the lack of a viable market for crop residue.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/noida-22-year-old-wanted-gangster-arrested-after-police-chase-led-to-encounter-774298">Noida: 22-year-old wanted gangster arrested in encounter after police chase</a>

Studies estimate that during peak burning periods, farm fires contribute up to 30 per cent of PM levels in the Delhi-NCR region and surrounding areas.

However, according to senior environmentalist Sunita Narain, the episodic burning of crop residue by farmers in winter is not the primary concern for poor air quality in Delhi-NCR. Instead, the persistent and major sources of pollution within the city, including transport and industries, are more worrisome.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for&nbsp;WION&nbsp;audience.

The Centre has doubled the fine for farmers burning crop residue in view of the deteriorating air quality in the Delhi-NCR region, the penalty going up to Rs 30,000 for those with more than five acres of farmland.

The Centre has doubled the fine for farmers burning crop residue in view of the deteriorating air quality in the Delhi-NCR region, the penalty going up to Rs 30,000 for those with more than five acres of farmland. According to the notification, which was published on Wednesday and comes following the Supreme Court's tough stance on the issue, farmers with less than two acres of land will now have to pay environmental compensation of Rs 5,000, up from Rs 2,500. And those with land between two and five acres will be fined Rs 10,000 instead of Rs 5,000. Unfavourable meteorological conditions combined with vehicular emissions, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources contribute to hazardous air quality levels in Delhi-NCR during late autumn and winter. Also Read | India: Ruckus in Jammu and Kashmir assembly over display of Article 370 banner | Video According to a Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) analysis, the city experiences peak pollution from November 1 to 15 when the number of stubble-burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana increases. Major factors behind stubble burning include the paddy-wheat cropping system, cultivation of long-duration paddy varieties, mechanised harvesting that leaves standing crop stubble in the field, labour scarcity, and the lack of a viable market for crop residue. Also Read | Noida: 22-year-old wanted gangster arrested in encounter after police chase Studies estimate that during peak burning periods, farm fires contribute up to 30 per cent of PM levels in the Delhi-NCR region and surrounding areas. However, according to senior environmentalist Sunita Narain, the episodic burning of crop residue by farmers in winter is not the primary concern for poor air quality in Delhi-NCR. Instead, the persistent and major sources of pollution within the city, including transport and industries, are more worrisome. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Centre doubles penalty for farmers burning crop residue over deteriorating Delhi-NCR air quality

The Supreme Court on Thursday held that recruitment rules for appointment in government jobs cannot be changed midway unless it is prescribed. A five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud held that ‘rules of the game’ once set before the start of recruitment process cannot be tinkered with midway.

The Supreme Court on Thursday held that recruitment rules for appointment in government jobs cannot be changed midway unless it is prescribed. A five-judge bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud held that ‘rules of the game’ once set before the start of recruitment process cannot be tinkered with midway. Also read: Canada censors Australia Today, India blasts Canada's 'hypocrisy' The selection rules should not be arbitrary and be in accordance with Article 14 of the Constitution, the bench also comprising Justices Hrishikesh Roy, PS Narasimha, Pankaj Mithal and Manoj Misra said. The top court unanimously held that transparency and non-discrimination should be the hallmarks of the public recruitment process and candidates should not be taken by surprise by change of rules midway. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Government job recruitment rules can’t change midway unless prescribed: Supreme Court

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