India targets 100 import categories to cut $51bn bill and China dependence

Amid Rs 500-crore donation row, Vaishno Devi Shrine Board reviews offerings system

Assam Issues SOP to Tackle Monkey Menace and Human-Elephant Conflict

Assam has introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address growing human-wildlife conflicts involving monkeys and elephants. The year 2025 recorded the highest annual human death toll linked to such conflicts, with 138 lives lost. Elephant deaths have also remained a concern, with electrocution and train accidents being among the leading causes. The SOP aims to provide a structured response framework to manage and reduce these incidents across the state.

Kejriwal Visits Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar, Backs Him for Education Minister

Arvind Kejriwal visited climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk at Jantar Mantar on Thursday. Wangchuk is currently leading a protest there over alleged irregularities in national examinations. The demonstrations have been particularly focused on reported malpractices in the NEET medical entrance test. During his visit, Kejriwal publicly endorsed Wangchuk, suggesting he should serve as Education Minister.

Crowd Surge at Puri Rath Yatra Kills One, Over 100 Treated for Suffocation

A deadly crowd surge occurred during the Rath Yatra festival in Puri, claiming the life of one devotee. More than 100 people required medical attention for suffocation, with some evacuated on stretchers near the Singhadwara entrance. The incident took place as thousands of pilgrims gathered to witness the Pahandi ritual and the chariot procession. Emergency responders were deployed to manage the crisis and assist those affected. The tragedy has renewed concerns over crowd management at the event, following a similar incident at last year's festival.