Nipah outbreak: Number of cases rises to six in Kozhikode
The number of Nipah infection cases in Kozhikode district of Kerala has increased to six, with one more person testing positive on Friday. In addition, lab tests have confirmed that E. Mohammedali, the first patient who died on August 30, was also infected with Nipah. His body fluid samples were recently recovered and sent for testing, with the results becoming available on Friday. It has been reported that the infection spread at a private hospital, where 30 samples of healthcare workers have tested negative for the virus. A total of 100 samples have been sent for lab tests.
Supreme Court introduces platform to assess potential judges
Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, announced on Friday that the apex court has developed a platform to assess the top 50 judges in the country who are being considered for appointments to the Supreme Court. The goal is to address criticisms about the lack of factual data in the evaluation process of potential judges. Chief Justice Chandrachud shared details about the work in progress to make the collegium system more transparent during the Ram Jethmalani Memorial Lecture’s centenary edition.
Finance Ministry disregards criticism of GDP data
The Finance Ministry responded to criticism of Indian GDP data, which showed a 7.8% increase in the first quarter of this year. The Ministry emphasized that Indian GDP data is not seasonally adjusted and is finalized three years later, so it is incorrect to assess underlying economic activity based solely on GDP indicators. The Ministry mentioned several other growth indicators, such as Purchasing Managers’ Indices, bank credit growth, and improved consumption, to highlight the positive trends in the economy.
Retrieving bodies of slain officers was the most challenging part of Anantnag operation
During the 60-hour long anti-militancy operation in Anantnag’s Kokernag, the most challenging task for the troops was retrieving the bodies of three slain officers. This included a Colonel and Major from the Army, as well as a Deputy Superintendent of Police from the J&K Police. Official sources revealed that the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Himayun Bhat, was alive and in contact with police officers for six hours after being hit by bullets. He even managed to speak to his family. The operation faced enemy fire throughout the retrieval process.
India loses narrowly to Bangladesh in Asia Cup Super 4s fixture
Despite a classy century by Shubman Gill and a final dash by Axar Patel, India lost to Bangladesh by six runs in the final Super 4s fixture of the Asia Cup Super 4s. Mustafizur Rahman played a key role, taking three wickets, including two in the penultimate over, derailing India’s victory march.
Government establishes 31 Benches of GST Appellate Tribunal
To address the growing number of taxpayer disputes with the Revenue Department, the Finance Ministry has notified the establishment of 31 Appellate Tribunals across 28 States and eight Union Territories for the Goods and Services Tax (GST). This move, which received final clearance from the GST Council in July, is anticipated to expedite the resolution of disputes that have been pending for six years.
Kim Jong Un focuses on weapons during tour of Russia
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a Russian aircraft factory as part of his extended trip to Russia. This visit has raised concerns about potential weapons transfer deals between North Korea and Russia. Kim’s tour has included meetings with President Vladimir Putin and visits to weapons and technology sites, indicating the deepening ties between the two countries. Foreign governments and experts speculate that Kim may supply ammunition to Russia for its war efforts in Ukraine in exchange for advanced weapons or technology.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra urges PM Modi to declare Himachal floods a national calamity
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to declare the damage caused by the recent record-breaking rains in Himachal Pradesh a “national disaster,” similar to the Kedarnath tragedy in 2013. In her letter, Vadra also requested financial assistance for relief efforts and the rebuilding of the state.
Delhi High Court addresses stray dog menace
The Delhi High Court has declared the stray dog menace a serious issue that needs urgent attention from city authorities. In an order passed last month, the court directed the Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to take appropriate action to address the issue of attacks by stray dogs. The court’s remarks came while quashing two FIRs against a woman known for her philanthropy and love for animals, who was accused of feeding dogs that later attacked her neighbor and his father in 2014.
Government adjusts tax rates on domestic crude and diesel exports
On Friday, the government increased the special additional excise duty on crude petroleum to ₹10,000 per tonne, up from ₹6,700 per tonne in the previous review. In addition, it announced a reduction in the duty on export of diesel to ₹5.50 per litre, down from ₹6 per litre.
Court issues notice over house arrest of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq
The Jammu & Kashmir High Court has issued a notice to the Lieutenant Governor’s administration regarding the house detention of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the Hurriyat chairman. Mr. Farooq’s legal representative stated that the administration has been given four weeks to file a reply. Two weeks ago, Mr. Farooq served a legal notice to the administration over his house detention and denied access to the historic Jamia Masjid since 2019.
UNESCO places Ukrainian cities on “in danger” list
UNESCO has placed World Heritage Sites in the Ukrainian cities of Kyiv and Lviv on its “in danger” list due to the ongoing war triggered by Russia’s invasion. This decision is a step towards better protection of the historic sites and provides an opportunity to access additional financial and technical aid to implement emergency measures.
Myanmar to offer visa on arrival to Chinese and Indian tourists
Myanmar is set to offer visas on arrival to Chinese and Indian tourists for a one-year trial scheme. The start date for this program will be announced soon, according to the junta’s immigration ministry. Tourists holding these visas will be allowed to visit all sites, apart from restricted areas, and aim to attract foreign visitors and their cash, benefiting the country’s economy. Currently, citizens of China and India must apply for a tourist visa online.