Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Resigns
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced his resignation following his ruling coalition's historic defeat in the July parliamentary elections. Ishiba, who took office last October, faced mounting pressure from within his Liberal Democratic Party to step down. His departure triggers a leadership contest and introduces political uncertainty for Japan, the world's fourth-largest economy and a key strategic partner for India in the Indo-Pacific region. The transition comes as Japan confronts significant domestic and international challenges.
Monsoon Devastation in Himachal Pradesh Crosses ₹4,000 Crore
The monsoon season has inflicted catastrophic damage on Himachal Pradesh, with official estimates placing total losses at over ₹4,080 crore. Heavy rains have triggered numerous landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, leading to 366 deaths in rain-related incidents and road accidents since June 20. Over 6,000 homes have been damaged, and critical infrastructure, including national highways and power systems, remains severely disrupted. The state continues to grapple with the aftermath as rescue and repair operations are underway across affected districts.
High-Ranking Maoist Commander Killed in Jharkhand Encounter
Security forces in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district killed a senior Maoist commander, Amit Hasda alias Aaptan, in an encounter on Sunday morning. Hasda, a self-styled zonal commander of the CPI (Maoist), carried a reward of ₹10 lakh on his head. The gunfight took place in the Saranda forest under the Goilkera police station. An SLR rifle and explosives were recovered from the scene. The operation marks a significant success for security forces in the ongoing anti-Naxal campaign in the region.
Vandalism of National Emblem at Hazratbal Shrine Sparks Arrests and Political Row
The vandalisation of a plaque bearing the Ashoka emblem at Srinagar's Hazratbal shrine has led to the detention of over 50 people and sparked a major political controversy. The plaque was damaged after Friday prayers by individuals who argued its presence was contrary to Islamic principles. Regional political parties have criticised the Waqf Board for placing the emblem in a sacred site, calling it provocative, while the BJP has condemned the vandalism as an attack on national dignity, escalating tensions in the region.
Indian Men's Hockey Team Wins Asia Cup, Qualifies for World Cup
The Indian men's hockey team clinched its fourth Asia Cup title with a commanding 4-1 victory over defending champions South Korea in the final in Rajgir, Bihar. Sukhjeet Singh scored in the opening minute, followed by a brace from Dilpreet Singh and a goal from Amit Rohidas. The dominant performance throughout the tournament, where India remained unbeaten, also secured the team a direct qualification spot for the 2026 FIH World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands.
Millions Across India Witness 'Blood Moon' During Total Lunar Eclipse
Skywatchers across India were treated to a spectacular total lunar eclipse, popularly known as a "Blood Moon," on Sunday night. The event, the longest of its kind visible from the entire country since 2018, saw the Moon pass through Earth's shadow, taking on a dramatic reddish hue. Astronomy clubs, universities, and families gathered for viewing events, celebrating the celestial phenomenon. The eclipse offered a moment of scientific wonder and cultural significance, with many temples closing temporarily as per tradition.
Canadian Government Report Confirms Khalistani Groups Receive Funding from Canada for Violence in India
A new report from Canada's Department of Finance has officially acknowledged that several Khalistani violent extremist groups, including Babbar Khalsa International, receive financial support originating from Canada. The assessment on money laundering and terrorist financing risks states these groups use funding networks, including non-profits, for politically motivated violence in India. This confirms long-standing concerns raised by New Delhi about Canadian soil being used as a base for anti-India activities, further straining diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Government Overhauls GST, Reducing Tax Slabs to Boost Economy
The Union government has announced a major overhaul of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, consolidating the structure into two main slabs of 5% and 18%, and eliminating the 12% and 28% rates. The reform, effective September 22, will reduce prices on nearly 400 products, from cars to daily essentials. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman described it as a "people's reform" aimed at benefiting every family, increasing consumption, and simplifying compliance for businesses, especially small and medium enterprises.
Canadian Government Report Links Khalistani Groups to Terror Funding
A new Canadian government assessment on money laundering and terrorist financing has identified Khalistani extremist groups, including Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), as posing significant financing risks. The report states these groups exploit Canada's financial system and diaspora networks to raise funds. This official acknowledgment comes amid strained diplomatic relations between India and Canada over pro-Khalistan activities, with New Delhi repeatedly accusing Ottawa of inaction against such groups.
Six Killed in Gujarat as Cargo Ropeway Cable Snaps at Pavagadh Temple
Six people, including two lift operators and four labourers, were killed after the cable of a cargo ropeway snapped at Pavagadh Hill in Gujarat's Panchmahal district. The incident occurred around 3 p.m. as the trolley was descending the hill, which is famous for the Mahakalika Temple. According to officials, the main ropeway for pilgrims had already been shut for two days due to inclement weather. An investigation into the cause of the accident has been initiated by the district administration.
Noida Man Arrested for Sending Hoax Terror Threat to Mumbai Police
Mumbai police have arrested a 50-year-old man from Noida, Uttar Pradesh, for sending a hoax terror threat. The accused, Ashwinikumar Supra, allegedly sent a WhatsApp message to the traffic police helpline claiming 14 terrorists with 400 kg of RDX had entered Mumbai to carry out blasts. The threat, received during the Ganesh festival, triggered a high alert. The Mumbai Crime Branch traced the sender's location and apprehended him within 24 hours. The motive behind the hoax is currently under investigation.
Activist Sharjeel Imam Moves Supreme Court for Bail in Delhi Riots Case
Activist Sharjeel Imam has approached the Supreme Court seeking bail in the 2020 northeast Delhi riots conspiracy case. The move comes just four days after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea, along with those of nine other accused, including Umar Khalid. Imam, who has been in jail for over five years, is facing charges under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for allegedly being a "mastermind" behind the riots that killed 53 people.
Prime Minister Modi to Skip UN General Assembly Session; EAM Jaishankar to Represent India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not be attending the upcoming high-level session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September, according to a revised provisional list of speakers. India will instead be represented by a minister, expected to be External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who is scheduled to address the General Debate on September 27. An earlier list had slated PM Modi to speak on September 26. Such changes in schedules for the high-level diplomatic week are not uncommon.
CBI Alleges Sasikala Used ₹450 Crore in Old Notes to Buy Sugar Mill During Demonetisation
The CBI has filed an FIR alleging that V.K. Sasikala, a close aide of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa, paid ₹450 crore in demonetised currency to purchase a sugar factory in 2016. The charge emerged from a probe into a ₹120 crore bank fraud case against Padmaadevi Sugars Limited. According to the FIR, documents seized by the Income Tax department show the cash payment was made for the benami purchase of the factory, with Sasikala as the beneficial owner.
Aryna Sabalenka Defends US Open Title
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka defeated American Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 7-6 (7/3) to win the US Open women's singles final, securing her second consecutive title in New York. The victory marks Sabalenka's fourth Grand Slam crown and makes her the first woman to successfully defend the US Open championship since Serena Williams in 2014. After losses in the Australian and French Open finals earlier this year, the win solidifies the Belarusian's dominance in women's tennis.