Home Minister Amit Shah announced that most of the Northeast may be free from the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act by next year, citing an 80% reduction in violent incidents and AFSPA-covered areas. This progress coincides with a historic oil and mineral exploration pact between Assam and Nagaland, boosting regional development and energy self-reliance.
India's ship safety certifier, IRClass, will no longer certify vessels owned by Iranian or Russian entities due to Western sanctions. The organization has de-classed 235 ships since 2023 and removed 13 million gross tons of sanctioned tonnage. However, IRClass acknowledges limited control over cargo movements after certification.
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann declared zero paper leaks in the state since 2022, contrasting with 93 national incidents since 2017. He highlighted merit-based recruitment, creating 67,037 government jobs. Mann also emphasized Punjab's rise to number one in school education, citing investments in infrastructure and teacher training, and the success of 'Schools of Eminence'.
Ladakh's Buddhist women's wing is strongly opposing the Union Territory's new excise policy allowing liquor sales, fearing it will worsen social issues like drug abuse and domestic violence. They advocate for stricter drug control and warn of protests if the policy isn't reconsidered, emphasizing women's role in preserving the region's social fabric.
Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju dismissed claims of discrimination against minorities in India as propaganda and a malicious campaign. He highlighted a significant increase in the ministry's budget over the past decade, from Rs 1,949 crore to Rs 4,115 crore, as evidence of the government's commitment.
National Conference plans a New Delhi protest for statehood and "constitutional guarantees," believed to refer to Article 370. Rebel MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi expressed willingness to join, urging a broader movement and outreach to opposition parties for sustained public support in the Valley.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a strategy session with National Conference MLAs and MPs at Dachigam National Park. The meeting concluded with a call for a protest in New Delhi during Parliament's monsoon session, demanding the restoration of J&K's statehood. The party also resolved to push for a ban on liquor in the region.
Former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti urged political parties and civil society to unite for dialogue with the central government, drawing inspiration from Ladakh's successful engagement. She called for an all-party meeting to address the region's despair and uncertainty, emphasizing the need for a broad consensus post-2019.
Starting next April, carmakers must test new vehicle mileage with and without air conditioning, a move by the government to offer consumers more realistic fuel efficiency figures. This transparency aims to empower buyers' decisions. Existing models will receive an extended compliance period. The new norms apply to both petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles, reflecting India's distinct driving conditions.
The government has issued a stern warning to industries diverting diesel purchases to retail outlets, causing artificial shortages. Despite ample supplies, bulk consumers are exploiting price differences, impacting ordinary citizens. States are urged to form special squads to crack down on such violations and hoarders, ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability for all.
