The Daily Catch-Up: Delhi building collapse, GDP debate, annual clean-air survey and more

‘Before Switzerland, films were made in Kashmir’: Omar Abdullah hopes festival brings shoots back

India Approves Rs 1.1 Lakh Crore Defence Deal for Mine Layers, Radars and Jammers

India's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved proposals to procure mine layers, radars, and jammers worth Rs 1.1 lakh crore. The council is headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. These acquisitions are aimed at significantly bolstering India's military capabilities. The approved proposals mark a major step in strengthening the country's defence infrastructure.

Delhi's Satya Niketan Struggles With Overcrowding, High Rents and Poor Civic Infrastructure

Satya Niketan, a residential neighbourhood in Delhi, is facing a growing civic crisis driven by rapid and unplanned development. The area has seen a surge in tenant population, placing heavy strain on its existing infrastructure. Landlords have been accused of prioritising profit over livable conditions, contributing to severe congestion. Basic amenities such as adequate sunlight and open space have become scarce for residents. The locality's civic systems have failed to keep pace with the speed of urbanisation, leaving residents to bear the consequences.

Suvendu Adhikari Proposes Dry Day and Grant Cuts for Durga Puja If Voted to Power

BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has announced key changes he would implement for Durga Puja if his party comes to power in West Bengal. He proposed declaring a dry day during the festival and cutting state grants given to puja committees. The Trinamool Congress government had previously provided Rs 1.10 lakh to each puja committee during the last festive season. Adhikari argued that a Chief Minister should not use public funds to finance a religious celebration. The announcement signals a sharp policy contrast between the BJP and the ruling Trinamool Congress ahead of elections.