NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 09:00:07 AM

RPG Fire, Panic On Deck: Seafarers' Union Shares Video Of IRGC Attack On Indian Crew In Hormuz

SUMMARY
An Indian-crewed commercial vessel was attacked by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz, with the Seafarers' Union of India releasing dramatic video showing an RPG strike causing fire and panic on deck. The crew, comprising Indian nationals, faced a terrifying ordeal as IRGC forces targeted the ship amid rising tensions in the strategically vital waterway. The union condemned the attack, demanding government intervention to protect Indian seafarers in conflict-prone maritime zones.
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RPG Fire, Panic On Deck: Seafarers' Union Shares Video Of IRGC Attack On Indian Crew In Hormuz

RPG Fire, Panic On Deck: Seafarers' Union Shares Video Of IRGC Attack On Indian Crew In Hormuz

RPG Fire, Panic On Deck: Seafarers' Union Shares Video Of IRGC Attack On Indian Crew In Hormuz

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 08:50:12 AM

'We Fought Major Wars With Pakistan But...': Ex-Army Chief Says China To Be India's Main Competitor In Long Run

SUMMARY
Former Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane stated that while India has fought major wars with Pakistan, China will be India's primary competitor in the long run. He emphasized that China's growing military power, territorial disputes along the LAC, and its strategic influence in the Indo-Pacific region pose a greater long-term challenge than Pakistan. Naravane highlighted the need for India to strengthen its defense capabilities, modernize forces, and focus on infrastructure development along the northern borders. He noted that the 2020 Galwan clash was a turning point in India-China relations, underscoring the shifting security dynamics. He urged sustained diplomatic and military preparedness to counter China's assertiveness in the region.
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'We Fought Major Wars With Pakistan But...': Ex-Army Chief Says China To Be India's Main Competitor In Long Run

'We Fought Major Wars With Pakistan But...': Ex-Army Chief Says China To Be India's Main Competitor In Long Run

'We Fought Major Wars With Pakistan But...': Ex-Army Chief Says China To Be India's Main Competitor In Long Run

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 08:45:12 AM

Ladakh To Withdraw Cases Against 25 Booked Over Last Year’s Statehood Protests

SUMMARY
The Ladakh administration has decided to withdraw cases against 25 individuals who were booked during last year's statehood and sixth schedule demand protests. The protests, led by activist Sonam Wangchuk and the Leh Apex Body, sought full statehood for Ladakh, constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, and separate Lok Sabha seats. Demonstrators demanded protection of tribal rights, land, jobs, and cultural identity post the region's 2019 bifurcation from Jammu & Kashmir. The decision aims to ease tensions and build trust with local leaders pushing for greater autonomy and democratic representation for Ladakh's people.
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Ladakh To Withdraw Cases Against 25 Booked Over Last Year’s Statehood Protests

Ladakh To Withdraw Cases Against 25 Booked Over Last Year’s Statehood Protests

Ladakh To Withdraw Cases Against 25 Booked Over Last Year’s Statehood Protests

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 08:15:07 AM

NHAI’s New Toll Pass: Who Can Get The Rs 350 Monthly Pass And How To Apply

SUMMARY
India's NHAI launched a Rs 350 monthly toll pass for light motor vehicles (cars, jeeps, vans) making frequent trips on specific toll plazas. The pass offers unlimited trips within the month, benefiting daily commuters near toll plazas. Applicable only for nearby residents within a defined radius. Users can apply via FASTag-linked accounts on the NHAI website or at toll plazas with vehicle documents and address proof. The initiative aims to reduce costs for regular commuters and ease toll congestion.
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NHAI’s New Toll Pass: Who Can Get The Rs 350 Monthly Pass And How To Apply

NHAI’s New Toll Pass: Who Can Get The Rs 350 Monthly Pass And How To Apply

NHAI’s New Toll Pass: Who Can Get The Rs 350 Monthly Pass And How To Apply

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NEW Firstpost Fri 21 Aug 2026 08:10:13 AM

‘India showing interest’: Putin says cooperation growing on Northern Sea Route

SUMMARY
Russian President Vladimir Putin highlighted India's growing interest in the Northern Sea Route (NSR), an Arctic shipping lane connecting Europe and Asia. Putin noted increasing cooperation between India and Russia on this strategic route, which offers a shorter alternative to the Suez Canal. As climate change melts Arctic ice, the NSR becomes more navigable, attracting global attention. India seeks to diversify trade routes and boost energy imports from Russia. This collaboration strengthens bilateral ties amid shifting geopolitics.
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‘India showing interest’: Putin says cooperation growing on Northern Sea Route

‘India showing interest’: Putin says cooperation growing on Northern Sea Route

‘India showing interest’: Putin says cooperation growing on Northern Sea Route

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NEW Firstpost Fri 21 Aug 2026 08:05:12 AM

Rich Indians may lose prized offshore credit cards as global banks tighten rules: Report

SUMMARY
Wealthy Indians using international credit cards from global banks like HSBC, Standard Chartered, and Citibank for overseas spending may face restrictions as these banks tighten compliance rules. Amid India's crackdown on undisclosed foreign assets and stricter RBI regulations on overseas spending via the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), banks are reassessing offshore card issuance. Enhanced KYC norms and tax scrutiny are driving this shift. Cards issued in Dubai, Singapore, and other hubs are under review, potentially impacting luxury spending and travel habits of high-net-worth Indians.
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Rich Indians may lose prized offshore credit cards as global banks tighten rules: Report

Rich Indians may lose prized offshore credit cards as global banks tighten rules: Report

Rich Indians may lose prized offshore credit cards as global banks tighten rules: Report

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 08:00:07 AM

Why Is Sadbhavana Diwas Observed On August 20? The Rajiv Gandhi Connection

SUMMARY
**Sadbhavana Diwas** is observed on **August 20** every year to commemorate the **birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi**. Born in 1944, Rajiv Gandhi served as India's youngest PM from 1984 to 1989. The day, meaning **"Goodwill Day,"** promotes national harmony, peace, communal unity, and anti-violence values he championed. The Congress party organizes events, including the **Sadbhavana Pledge**, encouraging citizens to work for unity regardless of religion, caste, or language, honoring his vision.
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Why Is Sadbhavana Diwas Observed On August 20? The Rajiv Gandhi Connection

Why Is Sadbhavana Diwas Observed On August 20? The Rajiv Gandhi Connection

Why Is Sadbhavana Diwas Observed On August 20? The Rajiv Gandhi Connection

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NEW News 18 Hindi Fri 21 Aug 2026 07:55:12 AM

US Religious Freedom Body Seeks Sanctions On RSS Ahead Of Mohan Bhagwat's New York Visit

SUMMARY
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has urged sanctions against India's Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), coinciding with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's planned visit to New York. USCIRF recommended designating India as a "Country of Particular Concern" for religious freedom violations, targeting RSS for allegedly promoting Hindu nationalism and discrimination against minorities. India has consistently rejected USCIRF's reports as biased and interfering in internal affairs. Bhagwat's US visit aims to engage the Indian diaspora.
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US Religious Freedom Body Seeks Sanctions On RSS Ahead Of Mohan Bhagwat's New York Visit

US Religious Freedom Body Seeks Sanctions On RSS Ahead Of Mohan Bhagwat's New York Visit

US Religious Freedom Body Seeks Sanctions On RSS Ahead Of Mohan Bhagwat's New York Visit

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NEW The Hindu Fri 21 Aug 2026 07:45:15 AM

U.S. pushes allies, China to back Trump’s economic war on Iran

SUMMARY
The U.S. under President Trump intensified its economic pressure campaign against Iran, urging allies and China to cut oil imports and comply with reimposed sanctions after withdrawing from the 2015 nuclear deal. Washington aimed to choke Iran's revenue to force renegotiation on its nuclear program, missile development, and regional influence. European allies resisted, seeking to preserve the deal, while China, a major Iranian oil buyer, pushed back against U.S. demands, raising tensions over trade and diplomacy globally.
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U.S. pushes allies, China to back Trump’s economic war on Iran

U.S. pushes allies, China to back Trump’s economic war on Iran

U.S. pushes allies, China to back Trump’s economic war on Iran

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NEW News 18 Hindi Thu 20 Aug 2026 07:30:02 PM

'Don't Need To Take US Too Seriously': Mehbooba Mufti Reacts To Sergio Gor’s J&K Remark

SUMMARY
Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti responded to US Presidential Personnel Office Director Sergio Gor's remark that J&K "belongs to India." Mufti dismissed the statement, saying India doesn't need to take the US too seriously on such matters. Gor made the comment during his India visit, aligning with India's stance on Kashmir. Mufti emphasized that J&K's status is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan, not for the US to decide, reaffirming her call for dialogue and resolution per UN resolutions.
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'Don't Need To Take US Too Seriously': Mehbooba Mufti Reacts To Sergio Gor’s J&K Remark

'Don't Need To Take US Too Seriously': Mehbooba Mufti Reacts To Sergio Gor’s J&K Remark

'Don't Need To Take US Too Seriously': Mehbooba Mufti Reacts To Sergio Gor’s J&K Remark

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NEW Barandbench Thu 20 Aug 2026 06:45:02 PM

Is English a non-indigenous language? Supreme Court asks in challenge to CBSE’s 3-language policy

SUMMARY
The Supreme Court questioned whether English qualifies as a non-indigenous language while hearing a challenge against CBSE's three-language formula. The petition contested CBSE's policy requiring students to study three languages, including one non-indigenous. The court examined if English, widely used in India for centuries, still remains "non-indigenous." Petitioners argued the policy burdens students, especially in non-Hindi states. The bench sought responses from CBSE and the government, raising broader debates on language policy, linguistic diversity, and educational autonomy in India's multilingual framework.
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Is English a non-indigenous language? Supreme Court asks in challenge to CBSE’s 3-language policy

Is English a non-indigenous language? Supreme Court asks in challenge to CBSE’s 3-language policy

Is English a non-indigenous language? Supreme Court asks in challenge to CBSE’s 3-language policy

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NEW Barandbench Thu 20 Aug 2026 06:40:02 PM

Tryst with the Constitution: The many constitutional questions arising from the Samay Raina case

SUMMARY
Comedian Samay Raina faced backlash after his YouTube show "India's Got Latent" featured controversial jokes involving minors, disabilities, and women. Clips went viral, sparking public outrage and FIRs in multiple states. This raised key constitutional questions: Does Article 19(1)(a) protect offensive comedy? Where do "reasonable restrictions" under Article 19(2) apply? Critics argued obscenity and decency laws were violated, while free speech advocates warned against censorship. The case reignited debate on comedy's legal boundaries in India.
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Tryst with the Constitution: The many constitutional questions arising from the Samay Raina case

Tryst with the Constitution: The many constitutional questions arising from the Samay Raina case

Tryst with the Constitution: The many constitutional questions arising from the Samay Raina case

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NEW Firstpost Thu 20 Aug 2026 06:30:09 PM

India has ‘strong political weight’, deserves permanent UNSC seat: Palestinian envoy Abdullah Shawesh

SUMMARY
Palestinian envoy Abdullah Shawesh expressed strong support for India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, stating that India carries "strong political weight" globally. He emphasized India's significant role in international affairs, its large population, growing economy, and contributions to global peace. Shawesh highlighted that India deserves representation reflecting its stature. This backing aligns with growing international support for UNSC reform, as the current structure, established post-WWII, is seen as outdated and unrepresentative of today's geopolitical realities.
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India has ‘strong political weight’, deserves permanent UNSC seat: Palestinian envoy Abdullah Shawesh

India has ‘strong political weight’, deserves permanent UNSC seat: Palestinian envoy Abdullah Shawesh

India has ‘strong political weight’, deserves permanent UNSC seat: Palestinian envoy Abdullah Shawesh

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NEW News 18 Hindi Thu 20 Aug 2026 06:30:02 PM

Only 1.2% Of NCR Vehicles, But 3.3% Of PM Emissions: Pollution Panel Shifts Focus To Goods Fleet

SUMMARY
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has highlighted that goods vehicles, though comprising only 1.2% of NCR's total vehicle fleet, contribute a disproportionate 3.3% of particulate matter emissions. This significant pollution footprint has prompted the panel to shift focus toward regulating the goods transport sector. Measures under consideration include stricter emission norms, promoting cleaner fuel alternatives like CNG and electric trucks, and phasing out older polluting commercial vehicles. The move aims to curb Delhi-NCR's worsening air quality crisis.
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Only 1.2% Of NCR Vehicles, But 3.3% Of PM Emissions: Pollution Panel Shifts Focus To Goods Fleet

Only 1.2% Of NCR Vehicles, But 3.3% Of PM Emissions: Pollution Panel Shifts Focus To Goods Fleet

Only 1.2% Of NCR Vehicles, But 3.3% Of PM Emissions: Pollution Panel Shifts Focus To Goods Fleet

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NEW News 18 Hindi Thu 20 Aug 2026 06:25:02 PM

Jharkhand HC Stays Soren Govt’s Order Cancelling JSSC, JPSC Exams

SUMMARY
The Jharkhand High Court has stayed the Hemant Soren government's order cancelling examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) and Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC). The state government had earlier scrapped these exams citing allegations of irregularities and paper leaks. Thousands of candidates who had appeared for these competitive exams challenged the cancellation, arguing it was arbitrary and violated their rights. The HC found merit in the petitioners' arguments, putting the cancellation on hold until further hearing. This is a major relief for lakhs of aspirants who faced uncertainty over their futures. The court directed the government not to take any coercive action and scheduled the matter for detailed hearing. The decision has sparked political debate, with the opposition accusing the Soren government of playing politics with students' careers.
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Jharkhand HC Stays Soren Govt’s Order Cancelling JSSC, JPSC Exams

Jharkhand HC Stays Soren Govt’s Order Cancelling JSSC, JPSC Exams

Jharkhand HC Stays Soren Govt’s Order Cancelling JSSC, JPSC Exams

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