The Maharashtra government has cancelled leaves for employees across 11 departments involved in drought management to assess widespread crop damage, particularly affecting soybean. This follows the declaration of drought in 265 talukas and the announcement of relief measures. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule is on an assessment tour, facing protests from Congress workers demanding immediate farmer relief.
Former Enforcement Directorate deputy director Niranjan Singh resigned from the Akali Dal Waris Punjab De just five days after joining, citing "non-negotiable" differences. Singh, who had joined to tackle drug menace and corruption, did not specify the issues but emphasised adherence to the Constitution. The party is led by the incarcerated Amritpal Singh.
Two Indian nationals have been charged in a US federal court for their alleged involvement in a transnational scheme to distribute counterfeit Ozempic, a popular diabetes drug. The scheme involved obtaining fake drugs from China, deceptive packaging, and continued even after FDA warnings, with the accused facing significant jail time if convicted.
Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir met with the National selection committee in Guwahati to discuss the squad for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, which includes T20Is, ODIs, and Tests, as well as an India A tour. The meeting highlights the importance of early preparations for the extensive series.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested 13 individuals across Assam, West Bengal, and Kerala for their alleged involvement in a terror conspiracy orchestrated by Imam Mahmuder Kafila (IMK), an offshoot of the proscribed Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). The group aimed to radicalise youth and expand its extremist network in eastern and northeastern India through online modules, clandestine meetings, and propaganda.
Vithya Ramraj broke P T Usha's 42-year-old national record in the women's 400m hurdles at the Asian Games, clocking 54.75 seconds to win a bronze medal. Usha expressed pride, stating that records are meant to inspire the next generation.
India's top compound archer, Jyothi Surekha Vennam, discusses her recent performance at the Asian Games, including a women's team gold and an early individual exit. She expresses her determination to compete in the 2028 Olympics, where the compound mixed team event will debut, and shares her strategies for maintaining focus.
The Meerut district court has found Muskan Rastogi and Sahil Shukla guilty of the murder of merchant navy officer Saurabh Rajput in the 'Blue Drum' murder case. The court will announce the punishment after 15 days, with the prosecution seeking the maximum penalty for the heinous crime.
The ministry of education is actively formulating a computer-based testing strategy to transition the crucial NEET medical entrance exam to an online format.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has accused Maharashtra FDA officials of extorting money from hotels and quick-commerce businesses by threatening licence suspensions. He has demanded an independent inquiry into these allegations, claiming that FDA offices have become "extortion hubs" and that officials are bypassing legal procedures.
Angela Aumonier, who has been crowned Miss Universe Great Britain 2026, made her India appearance more than a picture-perfect pageant moment.
Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's planned visits to Uttar Pradesh for electoral literacy club conferences have been postponed, with officials stating it's a routine rescheduling. They denied any link to recent controversies regarding differences among election commissioners, highlighting that the postponements predated the controversy. The Election Commission is also ramping up efforts to engage Gen Alpha and Z ahead of the 2029 Lok Sabha polls through educational outreach.
JD(U) MLA Anant Kumar Singh has publicly declared his intention to support and campaign for Jan Suraaj Party candidate Anuj Singh against his own party's MLC, Neeraj Kumar, in the upcoming Bihar legislative council polls. Singh cited personal scores and past conspiracies involving Neeraj Kumar and RCP Singh as reasons for his rebellion.
'While the population remains relatively young, its age structure is beginning to shift, setting the stage for a much older population later this century.'
It's Ganesh Chaturthi, marking the arrival of Lord Ganesha amid prayers, festivities and vibrant decorations.
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has moved the Supreme Court to intervene in a significant case concerning the interpretation of legislative privileges of MLAs and their impact on freedom of speech. A seven-judge Constitution bench will hear the matter from October 6. Kamra's involvement stems from privilege proceedings against him in the Maharashtra Assembly over his comedy special. The case also revisits a 2003 matter involving journalist N Ravi, highlighting conflicting views on whether fundamental rights override legislative privileges.
An IIT Madras study reveals that financial cybercrime victims in India are often highly educated professionals, challenging the notion that only careless or financially unaware individuals are targeted. The research highlights that digital literacy doesn't guarantee protection, as fraudsters exploit stress and emotional vulnerabilities.
India has significantly increased its diplomatic engagements with Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and the Maldives.
US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, visited Amritsar's Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, and Partition Museum, calling it a "memorable day." During his visit to the Golden Temple, he was welcomed by SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami, who also raised concerns about a controversial "Mr Singh" poster issued by the US Department of Homeland Security, which was later removed. Discussions also covered the Sikh community's contributions and issues in the US.
Four men were electrocuted and three others injured when a live power cable snapped and fell on them while they slept inside a Ganesh pandal in Mandla, Madhya Pradesh. A preliminary probe suggests a short circuit caused the wire to break, with the incident occurring after power supply resumed.
Gael Monfils celebrated his 40th birthday by defeating Adolfo Daniel Vallejo in the first round of the US Open, making him the oldest player since Jimmy Connors in 1992 to win a main-draw singles match at Flushing Meadows on his birthday.
The parents of IIT Bombay student Sahil Wakode, who allegedly died by suicide, are continuing their hunger strike, demanding the arrest of Professor Suryanarayana Doolla and institute director Shireesh B Kedare. They allege caste discrimination and abetment to suicide, while police investigate the case, recording statements and analyzing electronic devices.
Indian weightlifter Saikhom Mirabai Chanu secured a silver medal in the women's 49kg category at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, completing her collection of major international medals. Her chief coach, Vijay Sharma, revealed that a meticulously designed training programme focused on injury prevention was crucial to her success, especially after previous Asian Games disappointments due to injury. Chanu lifted a combined 198kg, adding this prestigious medal to her Olympic silver, Commonwealth Games golds, and World Championships title.
A curative petition has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the September 23 split verdict on the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023. The petition, filed by Jaya Thakur, alleges a "reasonable apprehension of bias" due to claims that Justice Satish Chandra Sharma's son is a standing counsel for the Election Commission, raising questions about judicial propriety.
Guwahati is abuzz with 'RoKo' mania as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to play what could be their final ODI match in the city. Despite waning ODI popularity, the presence of these cricketing legends, especially Kohli's recent form and his declaration about the 2027 World Cup being his last, has created immense anticipation among fans.
The Union Home Ministry's High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes has requested states and Union Territories to provide detailed data on "visible changes" in religious demography over the last 15 years. This includes information on birth registrations, religious structures, vehicle registrations, property transfers in tribal areas, and educational institutions, aiming to assess demographic shifts and recommend policy measures.
The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution demanding the urgent restoration of full statehood, a move that saw the opposition BJP stage a walkout. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah moved the resolution, which also referenced previous calls for greater autonomy and special status. The BJP vehemently opposed the resolution, calling it an insult to the Constitution.
Shubman Gill's magnificent double century and Rohit Sharma's fluent hundred propelled India to their highest successful run chase in ODI history, chasing down 406 against West Indies by 8 wickets to seal the three-match series.
From a Vantara-inspired jungle shrine to 21 years of family tradition, Rediff's readers prove Bappa's magic knows no boundaries.
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly witnessed chaotic scenes as BJP members protested a resolution seeking the urgent restoration of statehood. The BJP opposed the resolution, calling it an insult to the Constitution, and moved a motion for the Speaker's removal, leading to disruptions and mock proceedings in the House.
A family faced a violent assault during a Ganesh immersion procession after a woman politely asked a group to lower the volume of their drums.
Ahead of Gandhi Jayanti, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals India (PETA India) has sent a letter to Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw calling for a nationwide prohibition on billboards, television, online and other advertisements for meat, beginning on October 2.
India's Agriculture Secretary Atish Chandra has warned that the upcoming rabi (winter) crop season is likely to be challenging for rainfed areas due to the strengthening El Nio weather pattern, potentially affecting foodgrain production. This comes as Maharashtra declares drought in nearly 74 per cent of its talukas, highlighting the immediate impact of climate change.
Indian shooters Suruchi Singh and Kamaljeet secured a gold medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at the Asian Games in Japan, earning congratulations from Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for their dominant performance.
CJP spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka has reiterated the outfit's demand for CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, alleging the exclusion of 13 crore names from electoral rolls and questioning the BJP's defence of Kumar. The CJP plans a nationwide protest starting October 2, vowing not to back down until Kumar resigns, and has launched the 'Election Commission Thik Karo' campaign. Ranka also accused the CEC of fraudulently redrawing constituencies in Assam to benefit the ruling party.
A letter sent by the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust to Venu Srinivasan, Tata Trusts vice-chairman and nominee director on Tata Sons, a day before the Tata Sons board meeting on September 17, is at the centre of deliberations.
Delhi Police have filed a non-cognisable report against PWD Minister Parvesh Verma for slapping a man during a road inspection in Tilak Nagar, while an FIR has been registered against AAP MLA Jarnail Singh for obstructing public servants. The incident, captured on video, occurred amidst a dispute over road quality, with the slapped individual, Sahib Singh, having a prior assault case.
West Indies batting coach Floyd Reifer has stressed the need for the middle order to show greater responsibility and regain consistency, especially as the team prepares for the ODI World Cup Qualifier. He acknowledged positives from the recent loss to India, including a strong opening partnership, and highlighted the potential of young batter Jewel Andrew.
The Bombay High Court has stayed the bail granted to dismissed cop Sachin Waze in the 2021 Antilia bomb scare case. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) appealed the special court's decision, arguing that Waze intended to create terror and is accused of murder, and criticised the special court's observations regarding the Ambani family.
An Indian sailor was killed and several others rescued during an anti-piracy operation in Somalia. Security forces retook control of the hijacked fuel tanker MT Honour 25, apprehending 16 suspected pirates. Other Indian seafarers from different vessels were also safely repatriated amidst a resurgence of piracy in the region.
