Category: NATIONAL

New Delhi, November 29, 2025 — Thirteen people arrested in connection with the protest near India Gate were sent to judicial custody, while two others were remanded to police custody for one day by a city court on Friday. The arrests were made after demonstrators allegedly violated prohibitory orders and disrupted traffic in the high-security central Delhi area.

According to police, the protest turned tense after participants refused to disperse despite repeated warnings, forcing security personnel to intervene. Authorities said further investigation is underway to identify the organisers and determine whether any external groups were involved in mobilising the crowd. Security has been tightened in and around the India Gate zone to prevent fresh disturbances.

New Delhi, November 29, 2025 — India’s Defence Secretary said that defence startups require assured orders and market access, not government-run venture capital funds, to grow sustainably. Speaking at an industry event, he stressed that consistent procurement from the armed forces would give startups the confidence to invest in innovation, scale production, and compete globally. He added that demand-driven growth is far stronger than funding-driven expansion.

The Defence Secretary said the government’s role should focus on easing testing, certification, and procurement processes while creating a stable ecosystem for private defence manufacturers. He highlighted that several startups have already proven their capabilities in drones, surveillance systems, and advanced materials, and assured that the armed forces are increasingly open to indigenous solutions under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives.

Vijayawada, November 29, 2025 — Encouraged by a steady rise in tiger sightings, Andhra Pradesh is set to begin a statewide tiger census from December 1. Forest departments across major wildlife zones will deploy camera traps and tracking teams to record population data and animal movement.

Officials said the census will help strengthen conservation strategies and protect forest ecosystems. The survey will also assess threats to wildlife habitats and guide future protection measures under long-term environmental planning.

Panaji, November 29, 2025 — Andhra Pradesh won the first prize for its cultural tableau at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025, drawing national attention for its powerful presentation on cinema and tourism. The award-winning display showcased the state’s film heritage, scenic destinations, and rich artistic traditions.

Officials said the recognition will give a major boost to tourism and the creative industry in the state. The tableau received widespread appreciation from film personalities, international delegates, and festival visitors for its vibrant storytelling and visual excellence.

Visakhapatnam, November 29, 2025 — Coastal Andhra Pradesh has been placed on high alert as Cyclone Ditwah intensified over the Bay of Bengal and moved closer to the shoreline. The state government activated disaster response teams across vulnerable districts, including Visakhapatnam, East Godavari, West Godavari, and Krishna. Fishermen have been advised to stay off the sea as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions are expected.

Relief shelters have been readied, and district administrations have begun evacuating residents from low-lying coastal areas. Power, transport, and essential service departments are on standby to handle emergencies. Authorities urged people to remain indoors and strictly follow safety advisories over the next 48 hours.

Chennai | November 29, 2025 — Cyclone Ditwah has begun disrupting normal life across Tamil Nadu, forcing the cancellation of multiple flights and the closure of colleges in several coastal and interior districts. As the system intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, authorities have issued fresh warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions, urging residents to remain alert.

operations in Chennai and nearby cities were partially affected due to strong crosswinds and low visibility, while district administrations ordered educational institutions to shut as a precautionary measure. Disaster response teams, including NDRF and SDRF units, have been deployed in vulnerable areas, and relief camps are being kept ready. With Cyclone Ditwah moving closer to land, the state government is closely monitoring the situation to prevent loss of life and major damage.

New Delhi | November 28, 2025 — The Delhi High Court has quashed the Lokpal proceedings initiated against Defence Secretary RK Singh, ruling that the allegations lacked sufficient grounds for investigation. The verdict brings relief to the senior bureaucrat, who had challenged the proceedings on legal and procedural grounds.

The court emphasized that due process must be strictly followed in cases involving high-ranking officials, and any lapse can undermine administrative functioning. Legal experts note that the judgment reinforces safeguards for civil servants against arbitrary or unfounded inquiries while maintaining accountability under the Lokpal Act.

Delhi | November 28, 2025 — In a major breakthrough, Delhi Police have arrested Bandhu Man Singh, a key handler of the notorious Goldy Dhillon gang, during a targeted operation in the city. Singh is believed to have been involved in coordinating multiple high-profile criminal activities, including extortion, smuggling, and violent offenses linked to the gang.

Police officials said the arrest follows weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance, aimed at dismantling the gang’s operational network. Investigations are ongoing to identify other associates and recover assets tied to the gang’s illicit activities. Authorities have termed the apprehension as a significant step toward curbing organized crime in the national capital.