As Andhra Pradesh declares drought in 21 districts, Opposition YSRCP asks ‘why so late’

Most GST refunds may be processed within 17 days

The GST Council intends to shorten the refund processing period to around 17 days for businesses. It will also work to automate registering for a GST number to speed up the process. For small businesses operating in multiple states, avoiding repetitive registrations will be considered. Additionally, the proposal includes eliminating physical verification for registration cancellations. Changes will allow input tax credit on various business-related expenses to facilitate smoother operations.

Chasing illicit liquor traders, cops land in Bihar village. 50 locals jump into river, 2 drown

Meet Monarchs: ‘Endangered’ traveller butterflies that survive on poisonous milkweed

The extraordinary migration of monarch butterflies stretches across thousands of miles, connecting North America and Mexico. Sadly, their population has sharply declined, prompting the International Union for Conservation of Nature to mark them as endangered. Key threats include habitat loss, pesticide usage, and climate change, which disproportionately impact their crucial milkweed supply. To aid these delicate creatures, conservation efforts are imperative, with U.S. federal protection still pending.

80% vote in West Bengal bypolls amid rigging, intimidation charges

Bypolls across Nandigram and Rejinagar saw an 80% turnout despite allegations of rigging and voter intimidation. In Tamil Nadu, turnout dipped compared to previous elections, with results showing 86% and 80% participation. Assam's Nagaon Lok Sabha constituency recorded 76% turnout during the bypolls, while Puducherry's Thattanchavady seat had a turnout of 78% by 5pm. Various candidates and parties reported incidents of interference and blocked agents during the polling process.