Category: NATIONAL

New Delhi, December 27:
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguard the Aravalli Range, highlighting its importance for ecological balance, groundwater conservation, and climate mitigation.

Speaking at an environmental event, Meghwal emphasised that the Aravalli hills are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and preventing desertification in the region. He stated that strict measures will be taken against illegal mining, deforestation, and encroachments to ensure the preservation of this vital natural resource.

The minister called for collaboration between local authorities, communities, and environmental organisations to strengthen protection efforts. He also underscored the role of sustainable development and afforestation projects in securing the ecological health of the Aravalli Range for future generations.

Officials noted that the government plans to implement monitoring systems and legal frameworks to curb environmental violations while promoting awareness programs among citizens. Meghwal’s remarks reflect a broader push towards integrated environmental governance at the national level.

Puri (Odisha), December 27: Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar on Friday visited the revered Shri Jagannath Dham in Puri, where he offered prayers at the temple and sought blessings. The visit comes as part of his official tour, reflecting the Election Commission of India’s commitment to upholding constitutional values and strengthening public trust in democratic institutions.

During his visit, the Chief Election Commissioner interacted with temple authorities and devotees, and highlighted the importance of ethics, transparency and integrity in public life. Officials said the visit was conducted smoothly amid adequate security arrangements, with local administration ensuring minimal inconvenience to pilgrims.

Mumbai, December 27:
Analysts on Saturday projected that the Indian rupee is likely to weaken and underperform against major global currencies in 2026, citing persistent trade deficits, subdued export growth and global monetary tightening pressures.

Foreign exchange strategists said external factors, including higher U.S. interest rates and capital outflows from emerging markets, could weigh on the rupee. They added that domestic inflation trends and crude oil prices will also play a role in currency performance.

Market experts advised investors to monitor macroeconomic indicators closely and adopt hedging strategies to manage forex risk. They noted that policy measures by the Reserve Bank of India and fiscal adjustments may help stabilise the currency over the medium term.

New Delhi, December 27:
A teenager in the national capital rented a Mahindra Thar and went on a reckless drive, crashing into multiple vehicles after panicking upon sighting his family, police said on Saturday. The incident unfolded when the vehicle, reportedly taken without proper consent, suddenly swerved into parked cars and two-wheelers, causing damage.

Officials said the teen appeared distressed and lost control of the SUV, colliding with at least three vehicles on a busy city road before bystanders intervened and alerted authorities. No serious injuries were reported, though several drivers and riders suffered minor bruises.

Police detained the teen and are investigating the circumstances leading up to the incident, including whether he was under emotional stress or influenced by external factors. Authorities emphasised that families should engage with children and teens to address behavioural concerns early and ensure road safety.

Legal experts noted that the case could attract provisions under juvenile justice and motor vehicle laws, including penalties for unauthorised use of a rented vehicle and negligent driving, depending on the ongoing investigation.

New Delhi, December 27:
In a landmark judgement on Saturday, the Supreme Court of India overturned a rape conviction, citing that the conviction was based on speculative assumptions rather than conclusive evidence. The court’s detailed verdict emphasised that justice must be grounded in credible proof and statutory requirements, not conjecture.

The three-judge bench noted that lower courts had relied heavily on circumstantial aspects without adequately establishing beyond reasonable doubt the key elements of the offence. Reversing the conviction, the Supreme Court reiterated that intuitive or speculative reasoning (“6th sense”) cannot substitute for hard evidence in criminal jurisprudence.

Legal experts hailed the verdict as reinforcing the principle of fair trial and safeguarding constitutional rights, particularly the requirement that guilt must be proven through legally admissible and corroborated evidence. The Supreme Court’s order is expected to influence future criminal appeals where evidence interpretation is contested.

Human rights advocates said the judgment strikes a balance between protecting victims’ rights and ensuring defendants receive impartial adjudication. The bench directed that the accused be released unless required in other cases, underscoring the sanctity of due process.

New Delhi, December 27:
The national capital on Saturday recorded ‘Very Poor’ air quality, with dense fog and stagnant atmospheric conditions expected to continue over the next few days, affecting visibility and respiratory health, officials said.

According to the latest air quality data, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) levels remained well above safe limits in several parts of Delhi, posing risks to children, elderly people and individuals with respiratory ailments. The Centre for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued health advisories urging citizens to minimise outdoor activities and use masks when stepping outside.

Meteorological departments forecast that foggy weather and cold temperatures will persist through the weekend, which could further trap pollutants near the ground and worsen air quality. Visibility was reported to be low at major traffic points and roadways early in the morning, disrupting mobility and raising concerns among commuters.

Authorities have urged residents to stay updated on air quality health alerts, avoid burning firecrackers or biomass, and reduce vehicular emissions where possible. Air quality experts said long-term structural measures, including promoting clean energy and reducing industrial emissions, are crucial for sustained improvement in Delhi’s air quality.

Mumbai, December 27:
More than 300 local trains in the Mumbai suburban network were cancelled on Saturday, causing significant disruption for daily commuters, railway officials said. The cancellations were implemented following a major technical failure in signalling systems at key junctions in the Western and Central Railway zones.

Railway sources explained that the signal breakdown occurred early in the morning, forcing authorities to prioritise safety and halt numerous services while technicians worked to restore operations. Passengers experienced long waits at stations, and substitute services were arranged where possible to mitigate inconvenience.

Officials added that several trains were also rerouted or short-terminated to manage the pressure on affected routes. Commuters expressed frustration but many acknowledged the necessity of safety protocols, urging the railways to expedite repairs and communication.

The Western and Central Railway divisions said swift action was underway to fix the technical fault and resume normal services. A detailed inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause of the malfunction and to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

Tirupati, December 27:
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday vowed to take strict action against rowdyism and anti-social elements in Andhra Pradesh, emphasising that no individual will be spared regardless of political affiliation. He made the remarks while inaugurating the Tirupati District Police Office in advance of the upcoming Vaikunta Ekadasi festival.

Naidu directed police to adopt both visible and invisible policing strategies, including increased surveillance to ensure the safety of devotees at Tirumala and surrounding temples. He warned that those engaged in anti-social activities, including mudslinging and fear-mongering for political gain, would face strict enforcement measures.

During the event, Naidu appreciated the Tirupati police for their efforts in controlling illegal activities like drug trafficking and smuggling, and reiterated that peace and security are vital for attracting investment and preserving Andhra Pradesh’s cultural heritage.

Officials stated that the state government will continue supporting law enforcement with modern tools and community cooperation to ensure public safety during high-traffic periods, especially religious festivals that draw large crowds.

Vijayawada, December 27:
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Saturday invoked the governance model associated with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, asserting that those fuelling caste-based conflicts in the state would face stern action. He said strong administration and decisive governance are essential to maintaining peace and harmony, echoing the so-called ‘Yogi model’ of law enforcement and social order.

Kalyan stressed that the government remains committed to preventing social tensions and divisive politics that could disrupt public order, urging political leaders and community representatives to promote unity and cohesion. He added that Andhra Pradesh’s administrative approach would prioritise security and inclusive development.

Political observers noted that the Deputy CM’s remarks signal firm intent to uphold law and order ahead of key political events, reflecting the government’s broader focus on stability and governance. Supporters lauded the message as bold and proactive in addressing social challenges.

Vijayawada, December 27:
As 2025 draws to a close, Amaravati’s real estate market is showing signs of revival, boosted by accelerated infrastructure development and renewed investor interest.

Policy clarity and improvements in project execution have reversed stagnation seen in recent years, with key initiatives such as second-phase land pooling and the central approval of the 190-km Outer Ring Road driving up land prices, especially along strategic corridors.

However, experts said affordability continues to be a major concern, as premium developments dominate the landscape while budget housing options remain limited, restricting access for middle-class buyers.

Developers and stakeholders have called for faster approval systems and regulatory support to attract sustained investment and ensure inclusive growth in the region.