Category: NATIONAL

New Delhi, December 30:
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced significant operational disruptions on Tuesday as dense fog and poor visibility forced the cancellation of over 110 domestic and international flights. Airport authorities said that the ongoing low-visibility conditions have created challenges for pilots during landing and takeoff, prompting Air Traffic Control to temporarily suspend certain flight operations to ensure passenger safety. Several airlines reported delays and rescheduling, while passengers were advised to check the status of their flights and make necessary arrangements in advance.

The Civil Aviation Ministry confirmed that additional ground handling and air traffic resources were deployed to manage the surge in passenger queries and minimize inconvenience. Authorities also requested travellers to reach the airport early, maintain safety protocols, and cooperate with staff during boarding and deboarding processes. Weather experts forecast that the foggy conditions could persist for the next 24 to 48 hours, potentially affecting flight schedules further. Airlines and airport management assured passengers that contingency measures, including alternate routing and rescheduling options, are being implemented to ensure minimal disruption to travel plans.

Vijayawada, December 30:
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Monday held a detailed review meeting on panchayat raj and rural development, focusing on strengthening grassroots governance and improving service delivery in villages. The Deputy CM interacted with senior officials to assess the implementation of welfare schemes, sanitation programmes and drinking water supply in rural areas. He emphasised that panchayats must function with accountability and responsiveness, as they are the first point of contact between the government and the people.

Pawan Kalyan directed officials to address grievances promptly and ensure that funds meant for rural development are utilised efficiently and transparently. Highlighting the role of local bodies in social transformation, he said empowering villages would directly contribute to the state’s overall progress. The Deputy CM also called for regular field inspections and public interaction by officials, asserting that effective governance begins at the village level and must reflect the needs and voices of the common people.

Amaravati, December 30:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday reviewed the progress of ongoing and proposed development works in Amaravati, reiterating that the capital city will be built as a world-class administrative and economic hub. During a high-level meeting with officials from multiple departments, the Chief Minister assessed infrastructure planning, road connectivity, housing projects and institutional development. He stressed that Amaravati is not merely a capital but a symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s aspirations and future growth, and directed officials to ensure transparency, speed and quality in execution.

The Chief Minister further instructed departments to align central assistance, private investments and international funding to accelerate projects without delays. Emphasising employment generation and sustainable urban planning, Naidu said the government is committed to restoring investor confidence and completing long-pending works in a time-bound manner. He also underlined the importance of citizen participation and assured farmers who contributed land that their interests would be fully protected, adding that Amaravati’s development would benefit all regions of the state.

Vijayawada, December 30:
Ahead of New Year celebrations, the Andhra Pradesh government has permitted extended liquor sale hours across the state on December 31. As per the orders, licensed liquor retail shops will be allowed to remain open till midnight, while bars and permitted establishments can serve alcohol up to 1 am on January 1, 2026. The decision applies to A4 liquor shops, licensed bars, star hotels and venues with valid event permissions.

Officials stated that the move was taken to facilitate celebrations while ensuring regulated sales under the excise department’s supervision. The government also instructed law enforcement agencies to maintain strict vigilance, prevent drunk driving and ensure public safety during celebrations. Authorities emphasized that strict action will be taken against violations of excise rules and traffic regulations.

Vijayawada, December 30:
The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet also gave clearance to several key infrastructure and development projects, with a major focus on the Amaravati capital region. Among the important decisions was the approval of a ₹7,387 crore NABARD loan to accelerate infrastructure works, including roads, drainage systems and public utilities. The Cabinet also approved underground drainage and sewage projects in the Mangalagiri–Tadepalli region, aimed at improving sanitation and urban living standards.

In addition, the government approved the introduction of a 10 percent road safety cess on motor vehicle taxes to strengthen accident prevention measures across the state. Land allocations were cleared for institutional use, industrial development and sports infrastructure, including a proposed sports city in Tirupati. Officials said these decisions reflect the government’s commitment to long-term urban development, employment generation and improved quality of life for citizens.

Vijayawada, December 30:
The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet on Monday approved the formation of two new districts — Markapuram and Polavaram, increasing the total number of districts in the state from 26 to 28. The decision was taken after detailed administrative reviews and public consultations aimed at improving governance and service delivery. Officials said the creation of new districts would help bring administration closer to people, especially in geographically large and remote regions, ensuring faster access to welfare schemes and government services.

The government clarified that along with the formation of new districts, revenue divisions and mandals will be realigned across several existing districts to ensure balanced administration. While changes will be implemented in 17 districts, nine districts will remain unchanged. The new districts are expected to become operational from December 31, marking another step in the state’s administrative restructuring to strengthen grassroots governance.

Ranchi, December 27:
A Jharkhand BJP spokesperson on Saturday praised the CBI’s Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the Unnao rape case, asserting that the central investigation agency’s intervention ensures a fair and impartial probe. The spokesperson also criticised the Uttar Pradesh state authorities for what he described as ineffective handling of the case at the local level.

Speaking to the media, the BJP leader said that the SLP filed by the CBI demonstrates the Centre’s commitment to justice for victims and highlights the need for accountability in sensitive cases. He urged state officials to cooperate fully with central agencies to expedite proceedings and safeguard victims’ rights.

The remarks come amid renewed attention to the case after recent judicial developments, with national and regional political figures weighing in on law enforcement and governance. Observers noted that such statements are likely to influence public discourse and reinforce calls for robust legal action.

The spokesperson concluded by emphasising that ensuring justice must remain apolitical, urging all parties to support transparent investigations and respect judicial processes in addressing crimes against women.

Kolkata, December 27:
The Special Inquiry Roll (SIR) hearings for over 32 lakh unmapped voters in West Bengal began on Saturday, marking a crucial step in the preparation of the final electoral rolls ahead of upcoming elections. Election officials said the hearings aim to verify voter identities and correct discrepancies in the draft rolls.

Authorities explained that the SIR process is designed to resolve objections and claims raised by individuals whose names were either missing or incorrectly entered in the electoral lists. Dedicated committees have been set up across districts to ensure a transparent and speedy verification process.

Officials urged citizens to participate actively, bring valid identification documents, and ensure their details are accurately recorded. The exercise is expected to strengthen the integrity of the electoral process and enable eligible voters to exercise their franchise without hurdles.

Election observers noted that the scale of the verification, covering millions of entries, reflects the Election Commission’s commitment to maintaining up-to-date and accurate voter lists. The hearings are scheduled to continue over the next several days, with final adjustments to be incorporated before the conclusion of the electoral roll revision.

New Delhi, December 27:
A Delhi Commercial Court on Saturday granted an ex‑parte injunction against Digital IM, restraining the company from undertaking certain commercial activities amid an ongoing legal dispute. The order was passed following a petition filed by the complainant seeking urgent relief.

The court noted that the injunction was necessary to prevent potential losses and protect the petitioner’s rights until the matter is fully adjudicated. Legal experts said ex‑parte orders are typically granted when there is a prima facie case and the risk of irreparable harm exists.

Representatives of Digital IM were not present during the hearing, and the company is expected to respond in the next scheduled proceedings. The injunction prohibits specific business operations and transactions that could adversely impact the petitioner’s interests.

The court has scheduled further hearings to examine the matter in detail and consider Digital IM’s submissions. Observers said the case underscores the role of commercial courts in fast-tracking business-related disputes and safeguarding stakeholder rights.

Dehradun, December 27:
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Friday transferred more than Rs 12 crore directly into the bank accounts of beneficiaries under various government welfare schemes through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism. The initiative aims to ensure transparency, eliminate middlemen and guarantee timely financial assistance to eligible citizens across the state.

Addressing the occasion, the Chief Minister said the DBT system reflects the state government’s commitment to good governance and inclusive development. He emphasized that direct transfers not only strengthen trust between the government and the people but also ensure that welfare benefits reach the intended beneficiaries without delays or leakages. The funds were credited to beneficiaries belonging to different sections, including farmers, women and economically weaker groups, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve livelihoods and social security.