Amid import fears, govt to review protection for homegrown apples

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal addressed concerns about rising apple imports, stating the government will review protections for domestic growers while balancing consumer needs. This comes amid US demands for lower tariffs on agricultural goods. Goyal highlighted existing protections like a minimum import price and import duty, but acknowledged the need to ensure affordability for consumers.

Fog, bad weather affect heli-service for Vaishno Devi on 3rd consecutive day in Katra

Heli-services from Katra to Sanji Chhat remain suspended for the third consecutive day due to dense fog and adverse weather conditions in the Trikuta Hills. Pilgrims are resorting to trekking or using pony and palanquin services to reach the Bhawan.

Ahmedabad crash fallout: DGCA issues advisory; AI, IndiGo told to hold post-trauma workshops

Following the tragic AI 171 crash, the DGCA has directed Air India and IndiGo to conduct mental health workshops for flight crews due to the significant psychological impact. Pilots are particularly anxious due to the lack of a preliminary accident report, leading to increased stress and safety concerns.

Microsoft exits Pakistan after 25 yrs; former country head reacts; calls it more than just business

After 25 years, Microsoft is reportedly exiting Pakistan, a move confirmed by the founding head of Microsoft Pakistan, Jawwad Rehman, via a LinkedIn post. The company commenced operations in June 2000 but has gradually reduced its presence.

Fifth batch of 7,208 Amarnath pilgrims departs from Jammu

A significant batch of 7,208 pilgrims embarked on the Shri Amarnath Yatra 2025 from Jammu, chanting "Bam Bam Bhole." Unfortunately, the journey faced a setback when a bus collision near Chanderkote injured 36 pilgrims due to brake failure. Despite the incident, the convoy of 310 vehicles continued under tight security towards the holy cave via Baltal and Pahalgam routes.

Wearing keffiyeh, Farooq Abdullah joins Muharram procession

Farooq Abdullah showed solidarity with Palestine and Iran during a Muharram procession in Srinagar, advocating for Muslim unity against tyranny. Simultaneously, L-G Manoj Sinha participated in a separate procession, emphasizing peace and selfless service. Shia leader Aga Syed Mohammad Hadi cautioned against arrests of Muharram participants, following reports of police action against provocative displays and violation of procession conditions.

‘No Hindi vs Marathi’: Aaditya Thackeray plays down language row, accuses BJP of spreading ‘poison’

Aaditya Thackeray downplayed the Hindi vs. Marathi controversy in Maharashtra, attributing it to biased media and concerns about the burden of three languages on young students. He asserted that while Maharashtra embraces diverse languages, insults to Marathi would not be tolerated. Thackeray also criticized the BJP for comparing Maharashtra to terrorists, highlighting the strained relationship between the parties.

Himachal floods: Congress targets Kangana over ‘don’t have any cabinet’ remark, calls it ‘insensitive’

BJP MP Kangana Ranaut faced criticism from the Congress party for her perceived insensitive remarks during a visit to flood-affected areas in her Mandi constituency. The Congress shared a video where Ranaut downplayed disaster relief efforts, stating she lacks an official cabinet.

Texas flood kills 59; 27 girls still missing after camp washed away, rescue efforts enter day 3

UAE rolls out new golden visa: Lifetime residency at Rs 23 lakh, India among first to benefit

Akash Deep: The boy from Sasaram, who made England dance to his tunes at Edgbaston

Akash Deep didn’t get his desired conditions in England. Excited to bowl with the Dukes ball on a juicy pitch, he instead replaced Jasprit Bumrah on a placid Edgbaston track, but he adapted and rattled England in both innings. His dismissal of Joe Root in the second innings showcased his class and the hard yards he has put in on flat Indian pitches in the Ranji Trophy.

ITR filing FY 2024-25: Top 8 mistakes first-time tax filers make

ITR filing FY 2024-25: First-time income tax filers often make easily avoidable mistakes that can lead to refund delays or scrutiny. Common errors include choosing the wrong ITR form, neglecting to review AIS/TIS and Form 26AS, and failing to report all income sources.

Indians kidnapped in Mali: What are the demands of al-Qaida? Relative narrates ordeal

An al-Qaida-linked group in Mali has abducted three Indian nationals, including P Venkataraman from Odisha, and is reportedly demanding ransom for their release. The abduction occurred during an attack on the Diamond Cement Factory, prompting concern from the Ministry of External Affairs. Indian embassy is working closely with Malian authorities to secure the safe return of the abducted workers.

Pocket knife, hair clips, and dhoti: Army doctor helps woman deliver baby; mother, child stable

While awaiting his train at Jhansi railway station, Major Rohit Bachwala, an army doctor, swiftly aided a pregnant woman in labor using a pocket knife, hair clips, and a dhoti. Railway staff secured the area and provided gloves.

2025 Bajaj Dominar 250, Dominar 400 launched

Bajaj Auto has launched the 2025 versions of its Dominar 400 and 250 sports tourers. The Dominar 400, priced at Rs 2.38 lakh, now features ride-by-wire technology with four riding modes. The Dominar 250, costing Rs 1.92 lakh, offers selectable ABS modes. Both models sport a new LCD speedometer and reworked handlebar positioning for enhanced comfort.