Vijayendra says government yielded to people’s pressure; says there is no justification for denying permission to a peaceful political programme

A walkathon was organized in Belagavi, Karnataka, to raise awareness about the importance of eye donation. The event saw enthusiastic participation from medical professionals, students, volunteers, and local residents who marched through key areas of the city, spreading the message that a single donor can restore sight for two visually impaired individuals. Organizers emphasized the critical shortage of eye donors in India and urged citizens to pledge their eyes. Banners, pamphlets, and slogans highlighted how eye donation after death can transform lives. The initiative aimed to dispel myths surrounding eye donation and encourage more people to register as donors, ultimately helping eliminate preventable blindness in the community.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has signaled that India's reform agenda will accelerate, emphasizing that the "reform express" will move at a faster pace. Speaking to investors and stakeholders, Modi reaffirmed his government's commitment to bold economic and structural reforms, including liberalizing key sectors, improving ease of doing business, and attracting foreign investment. He highlighted past reforms like GST, labor codes, and farm laws as foundations for future policy changes. Modi assured that upcoming reforms will focus on boosting growth and global competitiveness.

France, UK, Canada, and nine other nations are coordinating sanctions targeting Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, deemed illegal under international law. The measures may include trade restrictions, asset freezes, and travel bans on settlers involved in violence against Palestinians. This diplomatic push follows escalating settler attacks and Israel's continued expansion of settlements amid the Gaza war. Israel condemned the move as biased, while Palestinian leaders welcomed international accountability. The initiative signals growing Western frustration with Israeli policies in the West Bank.

**जम्मू-कश्मीर में बड़ा सुरक्षा बदलाव किया जा रहा है। जम्मू क्षेत्र में 21 ठिकानों पर सेना की जगह अब CRPF (केंद्रीय रिजर्व पुलिस बल) तैनात की जाएगी। इसके साथ 2100 जवान और कोबरा (CoBRA) कमांडो टीम भी तैनात होगी, जो जंगल और पहाड़ी इलाकों में आतंकवाद विरोधी अभियानों में माहिर है। इस कदम का मकसद सेना को आंतरिक सुरक्षा ड्यूटी से मुक्त कर LAC (वास्तविक नियंत्रण रेखा) पर चीन सीमा पर तैनाती बढ़ाना है। यह फैसला बदलती सामरिक परिस्थितियों को देखते हुए लिया गया है।**

The UAE reportedly warned Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu about a significant Hamas operation days before the October 7, 2023, attack, according to news reports. Despite the intelligence tip, Israel failed to act on the warning. The devastating Hamas assault killed around 1,200 Israelis and took over 250 hostages. This revelation adds to growing scrutiny over Israeli intelligence failures. Multiple countries allegedly shared warnings, raising serious questions about why Israel's security apparatus did not prevent the deadliest attack in its history.

**EPFO KYC Update Online**

EPFO members can now easily update their KYC details through the official UAN portal (unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in). Log in using your UAN and password, navigate to the 'Manage' tab, and select 'KYC.' Enter details like Aadhaar, PAN, bank account, and passport. Once submitted, your employer must digitally approve the request. After verification, KYC status shows as "Verified." Updated KYC ensures seamless PF withdrawals, transfers, and online claims. Members must ensure Aadhaar-linked mobile is active for OTP verification.

The Tamil Nadu Assembly Budget session concluded after 28 sitting days, during which key legislative business was transacted. The session saw the presentation and passage of the state budget, along with discussions on various demands for grants across departments. Several bills were introduced and passed. The session witnessed heated debates between the ruling DMK and opposition AIADMK on issues like law and order, governance, and welfare schemes. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin highlighted developmental achievements, while the opposition raised concerns over fiscal management and policy failures.

**Chandigarh has banned Uber and Rapido from operating in the city, following earlier bans on Ola and InDrive.** The Chandigarh administration took this action because these ride-hailing platforms were running without valid licenses or permits under the Motor Vehicles Act. Authorities cited concerns over passenger safety, unregulated pricing, and lack of compliance with local transport regulations. The UT transport department issued notices and imposed penalties on unauthorized cab aggregators. This move aims to protect licensed auto and taxi operators who follow government norms. Commuters now face limited ride options, sparking public debate over convenience versus regulation.

Bengal Congress has filed a police complaint against self-styled godman Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, known as Bageshwar Baba, for his remarks demanding a ban on meat during Durga Puja. Shastri urged that non-vegetarian food should not be served during the festival, sparking outrage in Bengal where meat consumption is integral to cultural celebrations. Congress leaders condemned his statement as an attempt to impose dietary restrictions and hurt Bengali traditions. The complaint alleges incitement of communal tension and hurting religious sentiments. Political parties across Bengal criticized the remarks as interference in local customs.

Former Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram has openly expressed his support for imprisoned ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan, calling him his "mentor and friend." Akram stated he isn't afraid to voice his opinions, declaring "nobody will tell me what to do," pushing back against pressure to stay silent on political matters. While many Pakistani celebrities have avoided commenting on Khan's situation amid political tensions, Akram's bold stance highlights his loyalty to Khan, who mentored him during their cricketing days together.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin faced backlash after making a 'broken jaw' gesture during an Assembly session, seemingly directed at opposition AIADMK members. The gesture, caught on camera, went viral, drawing criticism from opposition leaders who called it unbecoming of a Chief Minister. Stalin clarified that the action was "purely spontaneous" and not intended to threaten anyone. He said it was an instinctive reaction during a heated exchange. The AIADMK demanded an apology, while DMK defended Stalin, calling the controversy politically motivated.

The upcoming BRICS summit in Delhi has caused an unprecedented surge in luxury hotel demand. Five-star hotels across the capital are fully booked, with room rates skyrocketing to Rs 2 lakh per night. Delegations from member nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa—and newly invited countries are driving the crunch. Hotels like The Leela, Taj, and ITC Maurya report zero availability. The government has also requisitioned premium rooms for VVIPs, further tightening supply for regular guests.

भारत में इस साल का मानसून एक दशक में सबसे असमान रहा है। CRISIL की रिपोर्ट के अनुसार, कई राज्यों में भारी बारिश हुई जबकि कुछ क्षेत्रों में सूखे जैसी स्थिति बनी। इस असमान वितरण से खरीफ फसलों की पैदावार पर गंभीर असर पड़ा है। CRISIL ने चेतावनी दी कि इससे आगामी रबी सीजन की बुआई भी प्रभावित होगी, क्योंकि मिट्टी में नमी का स्तर असंतुलित है। जिन इलाकों में अत्यधिक बारिश हुई वहां बाढ़ से फसलें बर्बाद हुईं, जबकि कम बारिश वाले क्षेत्रों में सिंचाई संकट गहराया। इससे खाद्य महंगाई बढ़ने और किसानों की आय घटने का खतरा है। जलाशयों में भी पानी का असमान भंडारण रबी सीजन के लिए चिंता का विषय है।