Category: NATIONAL

Chennai (Tamil Nadu), December 13: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday filed a supplementary chargesheet in a Tamil Nadu case linked to the Islamic State (ISIS), further detailing the involvement of suspects in terrorist activities. The chargesheet includes additional evidence gathered during ongoing investigations, aimed at strengthening the prosecution’s case.

Officials said the NIA is continuing its probe into the network of individuals allegedly involved in terrorist financing, recruitment, and radicalisation. The agency has assured that strict legal action will be taken against all accused, while emphasizing vigilance and coordination with state and central security agencies to prevent future threats.

Kolkata (West Bengal), December 13: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s assembly constituency recorded nearly four times more voter deletions compared to Suvendu Adhikari’s Nandigram seat, according to official electoral data. The figures have triggered a political row in the state, with opposition parties raising concerns over the deletion process ahead of upcoming elections.

The Trinamool Congress alleged that the large-scale deletions were politically motivated and demanded transparency from the Election Commission. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party rejected the allegations, stating that voter list revisions were carried out as per established rules and procedures. The Election Commission has said the process followed due norms and appeals can be filed by affected voters.

New Delhi, December 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described the Cabinet-approved CoalSETU window as a significant step towards strengthening India’s energy security. The initiative aims to streamline coal transportation, improve coordination between ministries, and ensure timely fuel supply to thermal power plants across the country.

The Prime Minister said the move would help address logistical challenges, reduce transportation delays, and support India’s growing power requirements. Officials added that CoalSETU is expected to enhance efficiency in the coal supply chain, ensuring uninterrupted power generation and supporting industrial growth.

New Delhi, December 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with United States President Donald Trump, during which the two leaders reviewed the progress of India-US bilateral relations. This was the third interaction between the two leaders in recent weeks amid ongoing discussions on trade and economic cooperation.

During the call, Prime Minister Modi emphasised India’s commitment to strengthening strategic, defence, and economic ties with the United States. Both leaders agreed to continue dialogue on global issues of mutual interest, including regional security and economic stability.

Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), December 13:

Following the deadly bus accident in the Alluri Sitarama Raju district, the Andhra Pradesh government has imposed a night-time ban on the movement of heavy vehicles on ghat roads across sensitive hilly regions. The restriction will be enforced from 10 pm to 5 am.

Officials said the decision was taken to reduce accidents caused by poor visibility and difficult terrain during night hours. Transport and police departments have been instructed to strictly implement the order and ensure public safety.

Andhra Pradesh, December 13: At least nine people were killed and more than 20 others injured after a private bus carrying pilgrims slipped off a ghat road and plunged into a gorge in Alluri Sitarama Raju district on Friday. The bus was reportedly heading to a temple when the driver lost control on a sharp curve.

Rescue operations were launched immediately with the help of local residents, police, and emergency teams. The injured were shifted to nearby hospitals, where some are undergoing treatment in critical condition. Authorities have ordered an inquiry into the incident and announced compensation for the victims’ families.

Colombo, December 11: The Indian Army on Wednesday highlighted its ongoing joint humanitarian initiatives in Sri Lanka, aimed at supporting local communities affected by natural disasters and socio-economic challenges. Officials said the efforts focus on providing medical assistance, food supplies, and infrastructure support in vulnerable regions, strengthening bilateral cooperation and goodwill between the two countries.

Army sources added that these initiatives are conducted in coordination with local authorities and community organisations to ensure timely and effective aid delivery. Defence analysts noted that such humanitarian missions not only address immediate needs but also build stronger people-to-people ties, enhancing regional stability and fostering mutual trust between India and Sri Lanka.

New Delhi, December 11: Prime Minister Modi paid homage to former President Pranab Mukherjee on his birth anniversary today, calling him a “towering statesman and scholar of exceptional depth.” Modi praised Mukherjee’s decades-long service to the nation, highlighting his contributions to policymaking, governance, and the strengthening of democratic institutions in India.

In his message, the Prime Minister emphasized Mukherjee’s commitment to public service, education, and social development, noting that his legacy continues to inspire generations of leaders and citizens alike. Modi called on the nation to remember the values and principles upheld by Mukherjee, urging young people to draw inspiration from his dedication, integrity, and vision in building a stronger, more inclusive India.

New Delhi, December 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today, during which he reaffirmed India’s support for a “just and durable peace” in West Asia. The leaders discussed ongoing efforts to promote regional stability, condemn terrorism, and advance a peace plan aimed at resolving the conflict in Gaza.

Officials said the call emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation between countries in addressing security, humanitarian, and economic challenges in the region. Both leaders expressed a shared commitment to promoting peaceful solutions and highlighted the need for international collaboration to ensure stability. The conversation also reflected India’s proactive diplomatic engagement in West Asia and its efforts to balance regional interests with global security imperatives.

New Delhi, December 11: Prime Minister Modi today met Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to review the progress of the bilateral Strategic Action Plan for 2025–2029. During the high-level meeting, the leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, energy, technology, and infrastructure, with the goal of deepening strategic ties between India and Italy.

Officials said the discussion focused on promoting joint investments, expanding market access, and leveraging technological partnerships for innovation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expressed optimism that collaborative projects under the Strategic Action Plan would benefit industries and citizens in both countries. Analysts highlighted the meeting as a sign of India’s growing global economic engagement and efforts to bolster international partnerships.