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.
Fifth-Generation Officer Becomes First Woman in Family to Join Indian Army
Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal has been commissioned into the Indian Army, becoming the first woman officer in her family's five-generation lineage of military service. She graduated from the Officers Training Academy in Chennai, winning the President's Gold Medal for placing first in the Order of Merit. Her family's service dates back to her great-great-grandfather in 1896. Her commissioning is a historic moment, as she joins her father, a serving Major General, and her brother, a Captain, in the armed forces.
US to Impose 'Substantial' Tariffs on Semiconductors
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a "fairly substantial tariff" on imported semiconductors. The statement was made during a White House dinner with leading technology executives. While the exact rate and timeline were not specified, this move follows earlier threats of a 100% levy on chips from firms that do not invest in the United States. The policy is part of the ongoing high-stakes tech race with China and is expected to significantly impact global supply chains and Asian chipmakers.
Centre Proposes New Guidelines for Disabled Road Accident Victims
The central government has issued a draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to improve care for road accident victims who sustain disabilities. The guidelines mandate disability-friendly ambulances, priority evacuation, accessible public transport, and comprehensive rehabilitation. A key proposal involves integrating accident reporting databases with the Unique Disability ID (UDID) system to streamline compensation claims. Formulated in compliance with a Supreme Court directive, the SOP aims to create a framework for immediate medical response and long-term social integration for victims.
US-India Relations Strained Over Tariffs and Geopolitics Amid Mixed Signals from Trump
Tensions between the US and India are high following US President Donald Trump's imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian goods, partly due to India's continued purchase of Russian oil. Trump made conflicting remarks, stating he would "always be friends" with PM Modi while also lamenting that the US has "lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China." Prime Minister Modi reciprocated the positive sentiments, but the underlying friction over trade and India's strategic autonomy continues to challenge the bilateral relationship.
Chief of Defence Staff Identifies China Border Dispute and Pakistan's Proxy War as Top Security Challenges
India's Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Anil Chauhan, has identified the unresolved border dispute with China as the nation's foremost security challenge. The second major threat is Pakistan's long-standing proxy war and its strategy to 'bleed India by a thousand cuts'. In a comprehensive assessment, Gen Chauhan also highlighted regional instability, the need to prepare for technology-driven future warfare, and the complexities of dealing with two nuclear-armed adversaries as other critical challenges facing the country's armed forces.