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NEW Firstpost Mon 17 Aug 2026 05:30:08 PM

Lashkar commander dies mysteriously in Pakistan days after terror operative claims 30 killed

SUMMARY

A senior Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander died under mysterious circumstances in Pakistan, just days after a terror operative linked to the group claimed responsibility for an attack that killed 30 people. The commander's sudden death has raised suspicions of internal conflict, a possible silencing operation, or involvement by intelligence agencies. Pakistani authorities have not disclosed details about the cause of death. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about terror networks operating from Pakistani soil and the instability within militant organizations. India and international agencies are closely monitoring the situation, demanding accountability from Pakistan regarding harboring terror outfits.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Mon 17 Aug 2026 05:30:02 PM

Suspected Jaish Operative Arrested In UP, ATS Says He Sent Madrasa Donations To Pakistan-Based Outfit

SUMMARY

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) arrested a suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative from the state. The accused allegedly collected donations from various madrasas across India and funneled the funds to the Pakistan-based terror outfit. The ATS revealed that the suspect had been operating covertly, using religious institutions as a cover to channel money supporting terrorist activities. Authorities are investigating his network and possible links to other operatives. The arrest highlights ongoing concerns over terror financing in India.

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NEW The Times Of India Mon 17 Aug 2026 05:25:13 PM

USS Benfold spent 4 days without toilets, AC, galley after power failure in S China Sea

SUMMARY

The USS Benfold, a US Navy guided-missile destroyer, suffered a complete power failure while operating in the South China Sea, leaving the crew without functioning toilets, air conditioning, and galley (kitchen) facilities for four days. Sailors endured extreme heat and unsanitary conditions aboard the Arleigh Burke-class warship. The incident raised concerns about Navy ship maintenance, crew welfare, and operational readiness in a strategically vital region where tensions with China remain high. The Navy acknowledged the event and worked to restore systems.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Mon 17 Aug 2026 04:30:02 PM

Which Indian State Has The Most Job-Ready Youth? India Skills Report 2026 Reveals Top 10

SUMMARY

# India Skills Report 2026: States With Most Job-Ready Youth

The India Skills Report 2026 reveals Maharashtra tops the list with the highest percentage of job-ready youth, followed by states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Delhi, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. The report, prepared by Wheebox in collaboration with agencies like CII and AICTE, assessed employability across domains. Overall national employability stands around 54.81%, showing improvement. Engineering, MBA, and professional course graduates scored higher. The report emphasizes skill gaps in AI, digital literacy, and communication, urging academia-industry collaboration to boost workforce readiness across India.

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NEW The Times Of India Mon 17 Aug 2026 04:25:14 PM

Odisha removes six-attempt cap for OCS exam, general candidates can now appear till age 42

SUMMARY

The Odisha government has scrapped the six-attempt limit for the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) exam, allowing general category candidates to appear unlimited times until they reach the upper age limit of 42 years. This landmark decision aligns Odisha with reforms seen in other states and the UPSC pattern. Previously, general candidates were restricted to six attempts, creating undue pressure. The move aims to provide equal opportunities, reduce stress, and encourage aspirants to pursue their civil services dream without fear of exhausting attempts prematurely.

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NEW Firstpost Mon 17 Aug 2026 04:25:09 PM

'We don't maintain data': MEA on how many passports issued to non-citizens | RTI reply

SUMMARY

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) revealed in an RTI reply that it does not maintain data on how many passports have been issued to non-citizens. This admission raised serious concerns about potential passport fraud and national security vulnerabilities. Critics questioned how the government can ensure passport integrity without tracking such data. The revelation comes amid ongoing debates over illegal immigration and citizenship verification. Opposition parties demanded accountability, urging stronger verification systems to prevent unauthorized passport issuance to ineligible individuals.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Mon 17 Aug 2026 04:20:02 PM

UGC-NET 2026 Re-Exam: No Extra Fee For Re-Test, NTA To Fix Paper-Setting Lapses

SUMMARY

The UGC-NET 2026 re-examination will be conducted without any additional fees for candidates, as announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The re-test was necessitated after paper-setting lapses were identified in the original exam, raising concerns about fairness and integrity. NTA has assured corrective measures to fix irregularities in the paper-setting process to prevent future issues. Affected candidates can appear for the re-exam at no extra cost, ensuring no financial burden. NTA aims to restore credibility and transparency in the examination system, prioritizing students' interests and academic standards.

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NEW The Times Of India Mon 17 Aug 2026 04:15:14 PM

Matrimonial site promised 100 matches, delivered 51; Kerala panel orders Rs 15K refund

SUMMARY

A Kerala consumer forum ordered a matrimonial website to refund Rs 15,000 to a customer after it failed to deliver promised services. The complainant had paid for a premium package guaranteeing 100 matches but received only 51 profiles. The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission found the site guilty of service deficiency and unfair trade practices. The panel ruled the company breached its contractual obligation, directing the refund along with compensation for mental agony and litigation costs.

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NEW Firstpost Mon 17 Aug 2026 04:05:12 PM

India-Russia relations: Trade, jobs and Arctic route emerge as new areas of cooperation

SUMMARY

India and Russia are strengthening bilateral ties beyond traditional defense cooperation, focusing on expanding trade, creating employment opportunities, and developing the Northern Sea Route through the Arctic. Both nations aim to boost bilateral trade significantly, with India importing more Russian oil and exploring new export markets. The Arctic shipping route offers a shorter trade corridor between Asia and Europe, reducing logistics costs. Discussions also cover technology transfer, joint ventures generating jobs, and deepening economic integration amid shifting global dynamics and Western sanctions on Russia.

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NEW The Hindu Mon 17 Aug 2026 03:55:13 PM

Issues can be sorted through talks: Envoy hopeful of Bangladesh PM's ‘much sooner’ visit to India

SUMMARY

Bangladesh's High Commissioner to India expressed optimism that PM Sheikh Hasina would visit India "much sooner," emphasizing that bilateral issues between the two nations can be resolved through dialogue. The envoy highlighted the strong ties shared by both countries and stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement to address pending matters, including water-sharing disputes, border issues, and trade concerns. The anticipated visit is expected to strengthen relations, boost cooperation, and provide a platform for resolving outstanding issues amicably through constructive talks at the highest level.

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NEW The Hindu Mon 17 Aug 2026 03:50:13 PM

Atleast 20 killed in clashes between Kambari, Fulani in central Nigeria

SUMMARY

At least 20 people were killed in violent clashes between Kambari farmers and Fulani herders in central Nigeria, a region long plagued by ethnic and resource-driven conflicts. The violence erupted over disputes involving land, grazing rights, and cattle rustling. Homes were burned, and many residents were displaced. Authorities deployed security forces to restore order. Such farmer-herder conflicts remain a major security challenge in Nigeria, often escalating due to competition for dwindling resources amid climate change and desertification.

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NEW Barandbench Mon 17 Aug 2026 03:50:02 PM

Madras High Court grants anti-piracy injunction in favour of Aamir Khan-produced Batwara 1947

SUMMARY

The Madras High Court has granted a dynamic anti-piracy injunction to protect the film "Sitaare Zameen Par" (originally titled "Batwara 1947"), produced by Aamir Khan. The court ordered internet service providers to block piracy websites and unauthorized platforms distributing the film illegally. The movie, directed by RS Prasanna, stars Aamir Khan and addresses the Partition era. This injunction aims to curb revenue losses from online piracy, ensuring the film's theatrical and digital rights are safeguarded for the producers.

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NEW Hindustan Times Mon 17 Aug 2026 03:35:02 PM

Bihar STET 2026: Registration begins at stetregistration.cbrt.co.in, direct link to apply here

SUMMARY

Bihar STET 2026 registration has officially begun on the CBRT portal at stetregistration.cbrt.co.in. Candidates aspiring for secondary and senior secondary teacher positions in Bihar can apply online through the direct link on the official website. The State Teachers Eligibility Test is conducted by the Bihar School Examination Board. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria including relevant graduation/post-graduation degrees and B.Ed qualification. Candidates should complete registration, upload documents, and pay fees before the deadline. Stay updated on the official site for exam dates, admit cards, and syllabus details.

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NEW Firstpost Mon 17 Aug 2026 03:20:14 PM

India’s wholesale inflation dips to 9.78% in July; food, manufacturing prices rise

SUMMARY

India's wholesale price index (WPI) inflation eased to 9.78% in July from 12.07% in June, marking a decline but remaining elevated. The drop was primarily driven by lower fuel and power prices. However, food and manufacturing sectors continued to witness price increases, keeping inflationary pressures alive. Food inflation rose due to higher vegetable and cereal prices, while manufacturing costs climbed on input price hikes. The government and RBI closely monitored the situation.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Mon 17 Aug 2026 03:20:08 PM

'Bring Back E10 For Older Vehicles': CEA Nageswaran's Surprise Suggestion Amid Centre's Push For E20 Petrol

SUMMARY

India's Chief Economic Adviser V Ananthanageswaran has suggested reintroducing E10 petrol (10% ethanol-blended fuel) for older vehicles, even as the Centre aggressively pushes E20 (20% ethanol blend) nationwide. Nageswaran raised concerns that older engines aren't designed to handle higher ethanol concentrations, potentially causing damage and increased maintenance costs. The E20 rollout, aimed at reducing oil imports and carbon emissions, has been implemented across India. His suggestion surprised many, as it contrasts with government policy. Experts note older vehicles may face compatibility issues with E20, affecting millions of car owners.

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