Category: NATIONAL

Chennai, January 7:
The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) on Wednesday alleged that the ruling DMK government looted Tamil Nadu of ₹4 lakh crore over a period of 56 months, citing what it described as “mismanagement, corruption, and unchecked spending” under the current administration. Party spokespersons claimed that public funds meant for development projects, welfare schemes, and infrastructure were siphoned off or misused, severely impacting governance and the state’s economic growth. They urged citizens to hold the government accountable and stressed that such fiscal mismanagement cannot be ignored.

The AIADMK criticism comes amid heightened political rivalry in Tamil Nadu, with opposition parties actively campaigning ahead of the upcoming elections. Analysts noted that the allegation is aimed at mobilising voter sentiment against the DMK by highlighting perceived financial irregularities and policy failures. Party leaders have called for audits and investigations into the state government’s expenditures to ensure transparency and accountability. Observers said the dispute underscores the intense scrutiny of public finances in the state and reflects how fiscal issues are increasingly becoming central to political debates and election strategies in Tamil Nadu.

New Delhi, January 7:
Tensions erupted in parts of Delhi on Wednesday following an anti-encroachment drive conducted by municipal authorities around a mosque, leading to clashes between local residents and law enforcement personnel. Officials said the drive aimed to remove unauthorised structures and reclaim public land, but the operation faced resistance from community members, resulting in heated exchanges and minor scuffles. Police deployed additional personnel to maintain law and order, while authorities appealed for calm and assured that the exercise was being carried out in accordance with legal provisions.

Eyewitnesses reported that some shops and temporary structures were dismantled during the operation, triggering protests from affected vendors and residents. Law enforcement officials clarified that no fatalities were reported, though several individuals sustained minor injuries during the clashes and were treated on-site. Community leaders and local representatives called for dialogue to resolve the situation peacefully and prevent further escalation. Observers noted that while anti-encroachment drives are part of urban governance efforts, such actions often require careful coordination with local communities to avoid tensions and ensure smooth implementation. The municipal administration said it would continue the drive in other areas, adhering to legal protocols and prioritising public safety.

Sriharikota, January 7:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its PSLV-C62 mission on January 12 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle will place multiple payloads into their designated orbits, continuing ISRO’s streak of reliable and cost-effective launch missions. Officials said the mission is an important step in advancing India’s space capabilities, particularly in satellite deployment and technological demonstration. Preparations at the launch site are progressing as scheduled, with teams conducting final integration and pre-launch checks.

The launch of PSLV-C62 will be streamed live for viewers across the country and abroad through ISRO’s official broadcast platforms and national television channels. Space enthusiasts, students and the general public will be able to watch the countdown and liftoff in real time. ISRO officials noted that live telecast of launches plays a key role in promoting scientific awareness and inspiring young minds to pursue careers in space science and technology. The upcoming mission once again highlights India’s growing presence in the global space sector and ISRO’s commitment to precision, innovation and mission success.

New Delhi, January 7:
The Indian Army has invited applications from eligible candidates for recruitment through the Short Service Commission (SSC), offering young men and women an opportunity to serve the nation as commissioned officers. According to official details, the recruitment drive aims to fill vacancies across various technical and non-technical branches, providing candidates with professional training and leadership experience in one of the country’s most respected institutions. Interested applicants must meet the prescribed eligibility criteria, including age limits, educational qualifications and medical standards, before submitting their applications within the stipulated timeline.

The selection process for the Short Service Commission includes shortlisting of applications, followed by the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview, medical examination and final merit-based selection. Candidates selected under SSC will be commissioned for an initial tenure, with the option of extension based on performance and organisational requirements. Army officials highlighted that SSC officers play a vital role in operational, administrative and technical roles across the force. Aspirants have been advised to carefully read the official notification, prepare necessary documents in advance and complete the application process accurately to avoid disqualification. The recruitment initiative reflects the Indian Army’s continued focus on attracting talented and motivated individuals to strengthen its officer cadre.

New Delhi, January 7:
India will celebrate its 77th Republic Day on January 26, 2026, with the grand Republic Day Parade scheduled to take place along the Kartavya Path in the national capital. The main parade will begin at 10:30 am, showcasing the country’s military strength, cultural diversity and technological achievements. The event will feature marching contingents of the Armed Forces, tableaux from various states and Union Territories, as well as performances highlighting India’s rich heritage. Senior government officials, foreign dignitaries and thousands of citizens are expected to attend the celebrations, while the event will also be broadcast live across the country.

Tickets for the Republic Day Parade 2026 can be booked through both online and offline modes. Citizens can purchase tickets online via the designated government platforms using valid identification, while offline tickets will be available at authorised counters in Delhi on specified dates. Authorities have advised people to book tickets well in advance due to high demand and limited seating capacity. Entry passes will be issued after security verification, and attendees are required to follow strict security protocols, including restrictions on items allowed inside the parade venue. Officials said the arrangements aim to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations while allowing maximum public participation in one of the country’s most significant national events.

New Delhi, January 7:
Epilepsy patients will now be able to receive free Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) tests at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), a move aimed at improving treatment outcomes and ensuring safer medication management. Hospital officials said the initiative is designed to help doctors accurately measure drug levels in patients’ blood, allowing for personalised dosage adjustments and reducing the risk of side effects or treatment failure. The facility is expected to benefit a large number of patients who require long-term anti-epileptic medication and regular monitoring.

Medical experts explained that Therapeutic Drug Monitoring plays a crucial role in epilepsy care, as variations in drug absorption and metabolism can significantly affect seizure control. By offering the test free of cost, AIIMS aims to reduce the financial burden on patients while enhancing the quality of clinical care. The initiative also strengthens the institute’s commitment to accessible and patient-centric healthcare, particularly for those from economically weaker sections. Doctors noted that regular monitoring through TDM can lead to better seizure management, fewer hospital visits and improved overall quality of life for epilepsy patients.

Guntur, January 7:
Guntur district in Andhra Pradesh is set to host the National-level SARAS Mela 2026, an event aimed at showcasing rural enterprises, traditional crafts and women-led livelihood initiatives from across the country. Organised as part of efforts to promote self-help groups and grassroots entrepreneurship, the mela will bring together artisans, farmers, weavers and small-scale producers, providing them with a national platform to market their products and connect directly with consumers. Officials said the event will highlight locally made handicrafts, handloom products, organic foods and rural innovations, reflecting the diversity and economic potential of India’s village-based industries.

The SARAS Mela is expected to attract large public participation and boost economic activity in the region while encouraging sustainable livelihoods and women empowerment. Government representatives noted that the exhibition will also include cultural performances, skill demonstrations and awareness sessions on financial inclusion and entrepreneurship. The hosting of the national-level event in Guntur underscores Andhra Pradesh’s growing role in promoting rural development and inclusive growth, while offering self-help groups an opportunity to expand their reach, enhance income generation and preserve traditional skills in a competitive market environment.

Amaravati, January 7, 2026: In its 14th meeting, the State Investment Promotion Board (SIPB) of Andhra Pradesh approved 14 new investment proposals worth ₹19,391 crore, a move expected to generate around 11,753 jobs across key sectors including tourism, food processing and energy. Chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the board highlighted that this approval adds to the state’s broader investment portfolio, which has cumulatively reached ₹8.75 lakh crore with potential to create up to 8.36 lakh jobs. The meeting also underscored strategic plans for a 15-kilometre pollution-free beach stretch at Suryalanka to boost tourism, industrial land development near Kopparthi and a push for enhanced competitiveness in the power sector with reduced tariffs aimed at attracting energy-intensive investments like data centres. Naidu praised strong coordination between political leadership and bureaucracy, urging seamless execution of projects, and also inaugurated the AP IT Infrastructure portal during the session. Officials said that the investment approvals reflect growing confidence among investors and reinforce Andhra Pradesh’s position as a preferred business destination in South India.

Vijayawada, January 7, 2026: Andhra Pradesh Agriculture Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu on Thursday launched a new technology-driven micro-irrigation programme aimed at enhancing sustainable farming practices and increasing farmers’ incomes across the state. The initiative, themed “Smart Irrigation Towards Sustainable Agriculture,” promotes automation and sensor-based irrigation systems to optimise water and fertiliser use in agricultural production, particularly benefiting horticulture and high-value crop farmers. Atchannaidu highlighted that the modernised irrigation approach could reduce water usage by 20–30 per cent, lower labour costs, and improve crop yields, while driving more efficient and climate-resilient farming methods. The programme, implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), includes financial assistance of up to ₹2.40 lakh per hectare with higher subsidy rates for small, marginal, and SC/ST farmers, reinforcing the government’s focus on inclusive agricultural growth. Officials noted that fixed pricing, quality inspections, and an AP Micro Irrigation Project (APMIP) seal will ensure transparency and long-term viability of the systems, with the state aspiring to emerge as a national leader in smart agriculture technology.

Indore, January 3:
A resident of Indore has alleged that his father lost his life after consuming contaminated drinking water, raising serious concerns over water quality and civic negligence in the city. Speaking to reporters, the resident claimed that several people in the locality had fallen ill after using water supplied through municipal pipelines and accused the authorities of failing to act despite repeated complaints. He said his father’s health deteriorated rapidly after consuming the water, following which he was hospitalised and later succumbed.

The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, who are demanding an immediate investigation into the alleged contamination and accountability of civic officials. Residents have urged the administration to conduct water quality tests and ensure the supply of safe drinking water to prevent further loss of lives. Meanwhile, the local administration has stated that samples have been collected for testing and necessary steps are being taken to address the issue. The matter has once again highlighted concerns over urban water management and the urgent need for strict monitoring of public utilities to safeguard public health.