Author: Sharad Natani
In a decisive step to strengthen India’s defence preparedness and future-proof its armed forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has approved defence procurement proposals worth nearly Rs 79,000 crore. The landmark clearance is being seen as one of the most significant military modernisation moves in recent years, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force amid rising regional and global security challenges. The approved acquisitions span a wide range of advanced weapon systems, missiles, radars, drones, and next-generation military platforms, designed to significantly improve India’s combat readiness, surveillance…
A viral social media post has ignited a nationwide debate on food safety, raising alarming concerns over the quality of cooking oil allegedly being used in the preparation of popular snacks across India. The post, shared widely on X (formerly Twitter), claims that chips and other fried snacks are being prepared using blackened, recycled engine-like oil, warning that such practices could contribute to the spread of cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The sharp criticism is directed at India’s food safety regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), accusing it of failing to act while public health remains…
Delhi’s much-loved free bus travel scheme for women is set to undergo a major digital transformation. From 2026, the Delhi government will phase out the existing pink paper tickets and introduce a new ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’, making Aadhaar-based verification mandatory for availing free travel on DTC and cluster buses. The move aims to modernise the public transport system, curb misuse, and ensure that benefits reach genuine residents of Delhi. What Is Changing in the Free Bus Travel Scheme Since 2019, women in Delhi have been travelling free on buses using pink tickets. Under the new system, women will need…
The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Union government and four concerned states over concerns related to mining activities in the ecologically sensitive Aravalli region. After hearing the matter, the apex court issued notices to the Centre and the states, directing the formation of a new independent panel of experts to reassess the issue. The next hearing has been scheduled for January 21. The case originated after the Central government notified a new definition of the Aravalli range, which environmental activists and experts alleged was framed without adequate scientific assessment or public consultation. Critics argue that the revised definition…
In a major technology-driven push to tackle air pollution, the Delhi government is exploring a collaboration with IIT Kanpur to identify pollution sources using Artificial Intelligence (AI). The initiative aims to move beyond reactive measures and adopt a data-backed, real-time, and scientific approach to air quality management in the national capital. Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the proposed partnership will focus on accurately identifying pollution sources and assessing their impact, enabling targeted and timely action across sectors. The Environment Department is ready to work on a clear roadmap, institutional framework, and phased implementation plan for the collaboration. From…
In a major step to curb rising air pollution, the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has issued notices to 250 polluting factories in Ghaziabad, directing them to install Online Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) by the end of December. According to pollution control officials, Ghaziabad has 385 pollution-causing industrial units, including 353 small-scale units, 21 medium industries, and 11 large factories. So far, OCEMS has been installed on the chimneys of 50 large industrial units, enabling real-time monitoring of emissions. Red Category Factories Under Scanner The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has now instructed that Red Category (highly polluting)…