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NEW Firstpost Tue 18 Aug 2026 10:15:07 PM

India on Saudi-Pakistan-Turkiye pact: ‘Examining implications’ for national security

SUMMARY

India is closely monitoring the emerging strategic pact between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye, stating it is "examining implications" for national security. The trilateral alliance reportedly aims to strengthen military, economic, and geopolitical cooperation among the three Muslim-majority nations. India views this development cautiously, concerned about potential shifts in regional power dynamics, especially regarding Pakistan's role. New Delhi fears the pact could embolden Pakistan on Kashmir and alter Gulf diplomacy. India continues engaging Saudi Arabia bilaterally to safeguard its interests.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Tue 18 Aug 2026 10:15:02 PM

Security Breach Near Taj Mahal: ASI Files Police Complaint After Visitors Perform Shiv Puja, Gangajal Rituals

SUMMARY

**Security Breach at Taj Mahal Sparks Controversy**

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) filed a police complaint after a group of visitors performed Shiv Puja and sprinkled Gangajal inside the Taj Mahal premises, violating monument rules. The incident raised serious security concerns at the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Videos of the ritual went viral on social media, triggering debate. ASI condemned the act, calling it a breach of protected monument regulations. Authorities are investigating and tightening security to prevent future incidents.

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NEW Firstpost Tue 18 Aug 2026 10:10:08 PM

'UPI will remain free': Parliament passes tax bill, Sitharaman rules out transaction charges

SUMMARY

India's Parliament passed the Finance Bill 2025, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman firmly ruling out any transaction charges on UPI payments. Amid widespread rumors and public concern that the government might impose fees on UPI transactions, Sitharaman reassured citizens that UPI will remain completely free for users. She emphasized that the government has no intention of levying any charges, as UPI is a key driver of India's digital economy. The bill also included various tax reforms and amendments.

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NEW The Times Of India Tue 18 Aug 2026 10:05:11 PM

Russia sent explosives, drone parts to Iran via secret route to rebuild arsenal

SUMMARY

Russia secretly shipped explosives and drone components to Iran through covert supply routes, helping Tehran rebuild its depleted military arsenal. The transfers reportedly included materials for manufacturing attack drones, which Iran had heavily supplied to Russia for use in Ukraine. This reciprocal arrangement deepens the controversial military partnership between Moscow and Tehran, alarming Western nations and Ukraine. The secret corridor bypasses international sanctions aimed at curbing both nations' military capabilities, raising escalation concerns globally.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Tue 18 Aug 2026 10:00:02 PM

FDA Crackdown Sparks Restaurant Industry Backlash in Maharashtra and Bengaluru | Brass Tacks

SUMMARY

Recent FDA raids across Maharashtra and Bengaluru have intensified, targeting restaurants for hygiene violations, adulterated ingredients, expired products, and unsafe food handling practices. Inspections revealed shocking conditions including pest infestations, contaminated cooking oil, and synthetic food colors. Several eateries faced closures and hefty fines. Restaurant associations pushed back, calling the crackdowns excessive and demanding clearer guidelines. The drives follow growing public health concerns and viral social media exposés. Authorities vow continued vigilance to ensure food safety compliance.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Tue 18 Aug 2026 09:55:07 PM

Detergent Instead Of Salt? At Least 24 Schoolchildren Hospitalised After Mid-Day Meal Horror in Bihar's Nalanda

SUMMARY

At least 24 schoolchildren were hospitalised in Bihar's Nalanda district after detergent powder was allegedly mixed into their mid-day meal instead of salt. The incident occurred at a government school, where students complained of nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain shortly after eating. They were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities launched an investigation, and the cook was questioned. Parents demanded strict action against those responsible. The incident highlights recurring concerns over negligence and poor quality control in India's mid-day meal scheme, which serves millions of children daily across government schools.

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NEW The Hindu Tue 18 Aug 2026 09:50:16 PM

Can India extradite Sheikh Hasina under the 2013 treaty with Bangladesh? | Explained

SUMMARY

Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has sought the extradition of former PM Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India in August 2024 after being ousted. Under the 2013 India-Bangladesh Extradition Treaty, extradition is possible for offenses punishable by at least one year in both countries. However, India can refuse on grounds of "political offense," sovereignty concerns, or if the request is politically motivated. The treaty also bars extradition for military/political crimes. India has historically granted Hasina refuge, complicating diplomatic ties. Experts note India is unlikely to comply, citing political asylum norms and bilateral relations. The situation tests India's balancing act between legal obligations and strategic interests in the region.

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NEW The Hindu Tue 18 Aug 2026 09:45:20 PM

Iran says it will escalate if U.S. does not honour deal within weeks

SUMMARY

Iran has warned it will escalate its nuclear activities if the U.S. fails to honour commitments under the nuclear deal within weeks. Tensions have risen since the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 JCPOA under Trump, reimposing sanctions. Iran insists it has been patient but will reduce compliance, including enriching uranium beyond agreed limits, if no relief is provided. European signatories have urged diplomacy, but Iran demands concrete action, not promises. The situation risks destabilizing the Middle East further.

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NEW The Hindu Tue 18 Aug 2026 09:40:17 PM

U.S. President Donald Trump terms Saudi-Turkiye-Pakistan defence agreement 'big, bold step’

SUMMARY

U.S. President Donald Trump praised a landmark defence agreement between Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Pakistan, calling it a "big, bold step." The trilateral pact focuses on strengthening military cooperation, defence production, and strategic security ties among the three Muslim-majority nations. The agreement aims to enhance joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and defence technology collaboration. Trump welcomed the deal as a positive move for regional stability and counterterrorism efforts. Analysts view it as a significant geopolitical shift, potentially reshaping alliances in the Middle East and South Asia, while also aligning with broader U.S. interests in the region.

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NEW Dainik Bhaskar Tue 18 Aug 2026 09:30:02 PM

पीएम केयर्स फंड में घरेलू डोनेशन 30% घटा:₹479 करोड़ रहा, पिछले साल विदेशी दान में भी कमी आई; फंड में अभी 8,452 करोड़

SUMMARY

**पीएम केयर्स फंड अपडेट:**

पीएम केयर्स फंड में घरेलू दान में 30% की भारी गिरावट दर्ज हुई है। यह घटकर मात्र ₹479 करोड़ रह गया, जो पिछले वर्ष की तुलना में काफी कम है। इसके साथ ही विदेशी दान में भी कमी देखी गई है। कोविड काल में इस फंड को भारी दान मिला था, लेकिन अब महामारी खत्म होने के बाद लोगों की रुचि घटी है। वर्तमान में फंड में कुल ₹8,452 करोड़ की राशि उपलब्ध है। यह फंड 2020 में प्रधानमंत्री मोदी द्वारा आपदा प्रबंधन के लिए स्थापित किया गया था। पारदर्शिता को लेकर विपक्ष लगातार सवाल उठाता रहा है।

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NEW Mint Tue 18 Aug 2026 09:10:07 PM

Delhi Lakshmi Yojana: ₹2,500 aid cannot be spent on tobacco, gambling and...; here's what’s banned? | Mint

SUMMARY

The Delhi government's Lakshmi Yojana provides ₹2,500 monthly financial aid to eligible women. However, strict spending restrictions apply. Recipients are banned from using the funds on tobacco products, gambling, alcohol, and lottery tickets. The scheme aims to empower women financially while ensuring money is used for essential needs like food, education, and healthcare. Violations may lead to disqualification. The initiative targets women residents of Delhi, promoting welfare and responsible spending among beneficiaries.

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NEW The Economic Times Tue 18 Aug 2026 09:10:02 PM

MEA says credibility of India’s election machinery ‘well-established’ globally after Trump remarks

SUMMARY

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) responded to former US President Donald Trump's remarks questioning the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), asserting that the credibility of India's election machinery is "well-established" worldwide. Trump had criticized EVMs broadly, advocating for paper ballots. MEA spokesperson stated that India's EVMs are robust, transparent, and have been upheld by the Supreme Court. India's Election Commission has consistently defended EVMs as tamper-proof, conducting millions of votes successfully across elections.

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NEW News 18 Hindi Tue 18 Aug 2026 06:10:08 PM

'Please Take CEC Gyanesh Kumar To America': Congress' Swipe After Trump Praise

SUMMARY

Congress party took a sharp swipe at Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar after US President Donald Trump praised India's electronic voting machines (EVMs) and quick election results. Trump lauded India's ability to declare results within hours, unlike prolonged US vote counting. Seizing the moment, Congress sarcastically urged the government to "take CEC Gyanesh Kumar to America," implying the BJP-led government influences election processes. Congress has repeatedly questioned EVM credibility, alleging manipulation in elections, a charge the Election Commission firmly denies.

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NEW Dainik Bhaskar Tue 18 Aug 2026 06:10:01 PM

अब देश में बनेंगे डिफेंस से जुड़े 405 आइटम:इनमें कोस्ट गार्ड के 16 आइटम, 3070 करोड़ का कारोबार होगा; रक्षा मंत्रालय ने लिस्ट जारी की

SUMMARY

**भारत में रक्षा उत्पादन को बढ़ावा देने के लिए रक्षा मंत्रालय ने 405 डिफेंस आइटम्स की नई सूची जारी की है, जो अब देश में ही बनाए जाएंगे। इनमें कोस्ट गार्ड से जुड़े 16 आइटम भी शामिल हैं। इससे लगभग 3070 करोड़ रुपये का कारोबार होने का अनुमान है। यह कदम 'मेक इन इंडिया' और आत्मनिर्भर भारत अभियान के तहत उठाया गया है ताकि रक्षा क्षेत्र में आयात निर्भरता कम हो, स्वदेशी उद्योगों को मजबूती मिले और देश की सुरक्षा आत्मनिर्भर बने।**

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NEW News 18 Hindi Tue 18 Aug 2026 06:05:10 PM

Bihar Govt Transfers Siwan Top Cop After Constable Uses AK-47 During Student Protest

SUMMARY

The Bihar government transferred Siwan SP Santosh Kumar after a police constable fired rounds from an AK-47 during a student protest against the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC). The incident occurred when students were demonstrating demanding cancellation of the controversial BPSC exam. The constable, identified as Raju Kumar, opened fire with the assault rifle, escalating tensions. The government took swift action, transferring the SP for mishandling the situation. No casualties were reported, but the incident drew widespread criticism over excessive force against peaceful protesters.

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