Author: Sharad Natani
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)…
In a shocking revelation that raises serious concerns about food safety, an investigation has uncovered what is being described as Bihar’s largest fake paneer market, where paneer that usually sells for ₹400 per kg is being supplied at just ₹80 per kg. The racket is operating at an industrial scale. Agents openly claim they can supply up to 12,000 kilograms of paneer within just three hours, catering to hotels, street vendors, caterers, and even organised food businesses across multiple states. How the Fake Paneer Network Works. According to the investigation, the paneer being sold is not made from milk. Instead,…
Yamuna City is fast transforming into one of India’s most promising industrial growth corridors, as massive investments worth over ₹35,000 crore pour into the region. Backed by the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), at least 23 domestic and global companies are gearing up to establish manufacturing units, setting the stage for an industrial revolution just ahead of the operational launch of the Noida International Airport. Of these companies, five have already received land allotments, while 18 have been issued Letters of Intent (LoIs). Once operational, these projects are expected to generate nearly 95,000 direct jobs, delivering a major boost…