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DD News
Jun 19, 2026, 05:14 AM
Indian Railways to Transport Fly Ash Across Country, Promoting Sustainable Industrial Practices and Circular Economy

Indian Railways to Transport Fly Ash Across Country, Promoting Sustainable Industrial Practices and Circular Economy

In a major step towards promoting sustainable industrial practices and strengthening the circular economy, the Ministry of Railways is planning a large-scale initiative to transport fly ash across the country through the railway network. The proposal was discussed during a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, with Ministers of State for Railways V. Somanna and Ravneet Singh Bittu also in attendance. The initiative aims to facilitate the efficient movement of fly ash from thermal power plants to industries where it can be used as a key raw material in infrastructure development, including road construction, brick manufacturing, cement production and other industrial applications. Tackling a 340-Million-Tonne Challenge India generates nearly 340 million tonnes of fly ash annually from thermal power plants. Traditionally viewed as an industrial waste product, fly ash has posed environmental and logistical challenges due to the large quantities accumulated near power generation facilities. The Railways’ proposed logistics network seeks to transform this challenge into an opportunity by creating dedicated transportation infrastructure comprising specialised containers and rail corridors. The system will enable the safe and efficient movement of fly ash from production centres to industrial consumers across the country. Supporting Infrastructure and Housing Development Fly ash is widely used in the manufacture of cement, concrete products, bricks, blocks and construction boards. By improving transportation and availability, the initiative is expected to lower logistics costs and increase access to this important industrial raw material. The Ministry of Railways said that greater availability of fly ash could help reduce production costs for construction materials such as cement and bricks, ultimately contributing to more affordable housing and infrastructure projects in both urban and rural areas. The planned rail-based transportation system will also ensure cleaner movement of fly ash through purpose-built containers and wagons, minimising environmental concerns associated with conventional transport methods. Advancing the Circular Economy The initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of promoting resource efficiency and sustainable development. By enabling the productive use of industrial by-products, the project seeks to convert waste into a valuable economic resource. The Ministry described the proposal as an example of the circular economy in action, where materials that were once considered waste can be reintegrated into the production cycle, reducing environmental burden while creating economic value.
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Aaj Tak
Jun 19, 2026, 05:07 AM
Delhi's Monsoon Delayed: Expected Arrival Pushed Back to First Week of July

Delhi's Monsoon Delayed: Expected Arrival Pushed Back to First Week of July

People in the national capital Delhi will have to wait longer for the monsoon. According to meteorologists, the monsoon in Delhi may arrive in the first week of July instead of the usual date of June 27. The main reason is the non-formation of a favorable weather system in the Bay of Bengal. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the monsoon usually enters in the last week of June, but this time it is likely to be delayed. According to the Meteorological Department (IMD), a low-pressure area is usually formed in the Bay of Bengal around June. It moves the moist winds of the Arabian Sea towards south India. Then this system moves towards northwest India through Odisha, Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. It forms an anti-clockwise circulation, which helps in the advancement of the monsoon. But this time this system has not been formed. Skymet's meteorologist Mahesh Palawat said that the system has not yet formed in the Bay of Bengal. The monsoon system ID3 is expected to reach Delhi around June. The first week of July is expected to be favorable for the formation of the Indian monsoon.
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The Financial Express
Jun 19, 2026, 05:05 AM
Indian Equity Markets Open Lower Amid Global Market Volatility

Indian Equity Markets Open Lower Amid Global Market Volatility

Indian equity markets opened Friday’s trade on a lower note after the tech stocks plunged by up to 7%. The Nifty 50 opened the trade 203.25 points or 0.84% lower at 23,964.75, while the BSE Sensex pulled back 719.13 points or 0.93% to open at 76,690.85. Tech Mahindra, Infosys, HCL Technologies, TCS, and Wipro were the five major losers in the Nifty 50. The global markets are assessing the signing of the US-Iran peace deal. Crude oil prices continuing below $80 a barrel, along with hawkish Fed signals, are also impacting sentiment. Following this, the GIFT Nifty is indicating a positive start for Indian markets, up 15 points or 0.06%. Earlier on Thursday, the Nifty 50 closed the session 82.30 points or 0.34% higher at 24,168, while the BSE Sensex advanced 254.36 points or 0.33% to close at 77,405. Asia-Pacific markets opened on a higher note as investors assess the US-Iran peace deal. Japan’s benchmark Nikkei 225 opened higher, advancing 0.6% after hitting a record high on Thursday, while the Topix was flat. South Korea’s Kospi jumped 2.8% after crossing the 9,000 mark for the first time yesterday, while the small-cap Kosdaq slid 0.39%. China, Hong Kong and Taiwan markets are closed for a holiday. On Thursday, the US equity markets staged a comeback after the US Fed FOMC results of keeping rates steady, but indicated a rate hike in 2026. The S&P 500 added 1.08%, closing at 7,500.58, and the Nasdaq Composite climbed 1.91% to 26,517.93. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by 72.15 points, or 0.14%, to end at 51,564.70. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell 0.77% to trade at $76.01 per barrel. On the other hand, Brent crude futures with August delivery continue to trade below the psychologically important level of $80. On COMEX, crude prices dropped 0.77% to trade at $76.01 a barrel. On COMEX, the precious metal was trading at Rs 4,204.90 an ounce, down 0.97%. The rate for 24-carat gold today is Rs 1,49,390 per 10 grams. The price of gold has declined 2.93% from yesterday. The 24 kt gold rate today in Delhi is Rs 1,49,130 per 10 grams. The 18-carat gold price today in India is Rs 1,12,042.5. The 24-carat gold rate in Dubai today is Rs 1,49,590. Spot silver prices are down 2%. In India, the silver rate dipped 5.72% to Rs 2.38 lakh per kilogram. On COMEX, Silver prices traded 1.68% lower at $65.20 per troy ounce. Silver had surged to record highs in January amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, with heavy speculative buying pushing prices higher, but soon faced volatility. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers of shares worth Rs 1,025.20 crore. On the other hand, the Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) were the net buyers of shares worth Rs 3,516.81 crore on June 18, 2026, according to the provisional data available on the NSE. The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the dollar’s value against a basket of six foreign currencies, was trading 0.04% lower at 100.79. The index evaluates the strength or weakness of the US dollar in comparison to major currencies. The basket contains currencies such as the British Pound, Euro, Swedish Krona, Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc, etc. The rupee appreciated 0.22% to close at 94.33 to the dollar on June 18. The Textiles sector’s stocks surged the most in Thursday’s trade, rising 5.8% in market capitalisation. Further, Asset Management Companies (AMCs) stocks were followed by the Leather sector stocks, which were further followed by the Electronics sector stocks. However, the Beverages – Non-Alcoholic sector stocks fell the most, dropping 2.3%.
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Dainik Bhaskar
Jun 19, 2026, 04:59 AM
Russia Hit by Drone Attack; Pakistan Deploys New Submarine

Russia Hit by Drone Attack; Pakistan Deploys New Submarine

People in the Russian capital, Moscow, and many surrounding areas complained of black rain (black rain). According to locals, the rain was accompanied by soot and falling oil, covering cars, roads, and clothing. In fact, Ukraine carried out the largest-ever drone attack on the Russian capital, Moscow, on Thursday. More than 1,000 drones were sent towards Moscow, one of which targeted the city's Moscow Oil Refinery. The attack was followed by a massive fire at the refinery. The refinery is operated by Gazprom Neft, Russia's state-owned oil company, and supplies about 40 percent of Moscow's petrol and 50 percent of its diesel needs. The attack has raised environmental and health concerns. Pakistan has inducted its new Hangor-class submarine, built in China. This is the first time since the 1971 war and the creation of Bangladesh that Pakistan is attempting to establish a naval presence in the Bay of Bengal. Pakistan has signed a submarine deal with China in April 2015, the largest in Pakistan's history.
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AIR News
Jun 19, 2026, 04:59 AM
India Braces for Heavy Rainfall and Thunderstorms Across Multiple Regions

India Braces for Heavy Rainfall and Thunderstorms Across Multiple Regions

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall today at isolated places over Assam, Meghalaya, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected over Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal during the day. According to the Met Department, thunderstorms accompanied by hailstorms are expected today over Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit, Muzaffarabad and Uttarakhand. Places over Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Telangana, West Bengal and Sikkim are likely to witness thunderstorms and gusty winds today. IMD said thunder squalls are likely over parts of Bihar, Rajasthan, Odisha, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh. Meanwhile, heatwave conditions are expected to persist today over Maharashtra, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh. Andhra Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal, Konkan, Goa and Odisha are likely to experience hot and humid weather conditions today.
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The Financial Express
Jun 19, 2026, 04:38 AM
Indian Tech Sector Plunges 6% After Accenture Cuts Revenue Guidance

Indian Tech Sector Plunges 6% After Accenture Cuts Revenue Guidance

It’s a bloodbath across the tech sector today. The Nifty IT Index has plunged 6%, and large-cap tech stocks like Infosys , Tech Mahindra , and Tata Consultancy Services are down as much as 7% in early trade. This is after Accenture , the global consulting firm, cuts its revenue guidance for the second time in a year. This led to a massive rout in the Indian tech stocks’ American Depository Receipts (ADRs) overnight as well. The Nifty IT index emerged as the biggest loser among all the sectoral indices, dropping 5.85%. Infosys was hurt the most, plunging 8%. It was followed by Mphasis , TCS, Tech Mahindra, HCL Technologies , LTM (LTI Mindtree), and many other IT stocks. The Accenture guidance is a big cue for the IT sector stocks in India , especially in terms of direction, as the company and its guidance are often seen as an indicator of global tech spending. Its financial updates and strategic shifts impact Indian tech companies. Accenture’s downward revision of its revenue growth guidance implies further growth moderation in the near term. According to Jefferies, “this may lead to further cuts to consensus earnings estimates for Indian IT and may also raise concerns on longer-term growth outlook and PE multiples.” Jefferies highlighted that the focus on M&A and new client additions may support growth, but given how “growth uncertainty persists amidst AI pressures and a volatile macro,” they remain ‘Underweight’. Pointing at the takeaways for the Indian IT sector, Jefferies listed three main factors to watch – -Further guidance cut likely: Jefferies believes that the “revised revenue growth guidance suggests further growth moderation which may lead to cuts to consensus expectations,” from the Indian IT sector’s perspective as well. -Long-term outlook: The other concern that Jefferies outlined is that the “soft growth on a low base is likely to raise concerns on a longer-term growth outlook and may drive further derating”. -Need to look at new growth drivers: Jefferies believes that “IT firms may have to look for new growth drivers (mid-market, M&A) to offset softness in traditional services growth.” After Accenture’s 18% fall, the valuation of the top 5 Indian IT companies comes into focus. According to their estimates, the top 5 IT firms are trading at a 70% premium to Accenture, “which poses further downside risks to the multiples of Indian IT firms,” Jefferies highlighted. Nuvama Institutional Equities also sees the Accenture guidance cut as “slightly negative for Indian IT.” Accenture’s guidance cut and soft bookings were also partly due to the Middle East conflict and pose risks for the Indian IT sector. According to Nuvama, “We continue to maintain that Gen AI will eventually lead to the expansion of TAM for Indian IT companies. Additionally, post the recent sharp correction, sector valuations have become highly attractive.” The consulting giant Accenture posted mixed results for the third quarter and lowered its growth expectations for the fiscal year. The IT firm follows a September-August financial year. This is the second time this year that Accenture tweaked its fiscal-year outlook. The company expects 3% to 4% revenue growth in local currency, down from March’s forecast of 3% to 5%. The chief executive officer of the company, Julie Sweets, said, “Accenture delivered a strong third quarter, with broad-based revenue growth, a 9% increase in EPS, and $8.2 billion returned to shareholders year-to-date. Demand for large-scale reinvention remains strong—104 quarterly client bookings of $100 million or more year-to-date, up 13%—and we are seeing more large-scale AI transformation programs while executing our strategy to capture new areas of growth.” “Our agreement to acquire a majority stake in Dragos and all of runZero and NetRise, leaders in OT Security, is the type of move that defines our strategy: it is expanding our addressable market, creating a new platform-led growth opportunity, and positioning Accenture at the centre of one of the most critical cybersecurity challenges our clients face,” the CEO added. J.P. Morgan maintained an ‘Overweight’ rating on Accenture following its Q3 results, which they describe as a mix of lighter-than-expected revenue and a significant shift toward inorganic growth. The company’s revenue reached only the midpoint of guidance rather than the typical “beat”, said the brokerage. However, adjusted EPS ($3.80) and operating margins (17%) both exceeded expectations. The company significantly increased its acquisition spending target to $9 billion (up from $5 billion), focusing on large deals in areas like Operational Technology security.
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The Financial Express
Jun 19, 2026, 04:12 AM
Rain-Triggered Landslide Blocks Critical Route in Shimla, Disrupting Traffic

Rain-Triggered Landslide Blocks Critical Route in Shimla, Disrupting Traffic

A rain-triggered landslide blocked the Dhalli-Sanjauli bypass on the outskirts of Shimla on Thursday afternoon, disrupting traffic on a crucial route interlinking the state capital with upper Himachal and several other popular tourist destinations. According to police, intermittent rainfall resulted in a landslide, depositing a large amount of debris on the road and forcing authorities to shut the bypass in both directions. Work is underway to clear the debris and restore the road to full functionality. The Dhalli-Sanjauli bypass interlinks Victory Tunnel with Dhalli while allowing motorists to avoid the congested Sanjauli stretch. The route is usually used by travellers heading towards Kinnaur and tourist destinations like Narkanda, Kurfi, Naldehra, Mashobra, and Tattapani. Police have advised commuters to avoid the bypass route for the time being and plan their journey through alternative routes. They have also warned that travellers may face inconvenience because of the closure. The landslide brought down mud, rocks and uprooted deodar trees after a portion of the hillside fell. As per a report by The Indian Express, heavy machinery and teams from the concerned departments were deployed to remove the debris and restore the traffic movement. The closure is likely to create inconvenience for commuters and residents who regularly use the bypass. As reported by The Indian Express, vehicles are being diverted to alternate routes, which could result in congestion in and around Shimla. Police have also asked commuters to follow directions issued by personnel deployed at the site to ensure smooth traffic management. A few minutes ago: A major landslide has occurred on the Dhalli–Sanjauli Bypass in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. pic.twitter.com/yMqude8cTo — Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) June 18, 2026 The landslide comes amid continuing rainfall activity across Himachal Pradesh. As per PTI, light to moderate rain was recorded in several parts of the state during the 24 hours ending Thursday evening. Rainfall, along with thunder and lightning, was reported from Shimla, Jubberhatti, Bhuntar, Sundernagar, Kurfi, Murari Devi, and Jot. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) local weather office, a wet spell is forecast in Himachal Pradesh till June 24. The Shimla Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow alert for hail, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph in parts of Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla districts on Friday. A warning for thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph in places across 10 districts of the state on Saturday and Sunday. The weather department has also predicted fairly widespread rainfall over Himachal Pradesh on June 20 and 21. In its latest Nowcast-HP weather bulletin, the Meteorological Centre, Shimla, said light rain is expected at isolated places in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts, as well as in the higher reaches of Chamba, Kullu, Kangra, and Shimla districts during the 12-hour period ending 9 am on June 19.
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Aaj Tak
Jun 19, 2026, 04:01 AM
Indian Monsoon Slows Down, Records Significant Rain Deficit

Indian Monsoon Slows Down, Records Significant Rain Deficit

In the country, the southwest monsoon reached Kerala on 4 June, but after that its speed suddenly slowed down. Rainfall was expected in many areas until mid-June, but the situation is the opposite. The monsoon has stopped in the southern part of Maharashtra. According to the data of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), from 4 June to 18 June, a 41% rain deficit has been recorded across the country. According to the latest update of the IMD, the country has received only 42.6 mm of rain in this period, while the normal rainfall should have been 72.2 mm. According to the regional information of the Meteorological Department, there is a 67% rain deficit in central India. There is a 42% rain deficit in eastern and northeastern India, 22% in the southern peninsula, and 6% in northwest India. The Meteorological Department said that for the last few days, the monsoon has not advanced in the rest of Maharashtra. The monsoon has stopped for several days in areas like Konkan and central Maharashtra. (IMD) said that the monsoon is not strong in the Arabian Sea, which usually brings strong winds.
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The Moscow Times
Jun 19, 2026, 03:40 AM
Indian Police Seize 500 kg of Ganja Worth Rs 2.5 Crore in Inter-State Operation

Indian Police Seize 500 kg of Ganja Worth Rs 2.5 Crore in Inter-State Operation

HYDERABAD: The EAGLE Force seized 500 kg of ganja worth an estimated Rs 2.5 crore following an interstate operation in Odisha late on Wednesday. Officials said EAGLE maintains surveillance in source regions supplying ganja to Telangana. Acting on credible information, an EAGLE patrol team led by SI K Ravi Prasad tracked a Bolero vehicle from Balimela to Jeypore for nearly 80 km. After a prolonged chase, the team intercepted the vehicle in a forested area. However, the driver managed to escape under the cover of darkness and difficult terrain. Police recovered 140 packets of ganja, including 90 packets weighing 5 kg each and 25 packets weighing 2 kg each, totalling 500 kg. The contraband was handed over to Koraput district police for further investigation. According to vehicle registration records, the Bolero is registered in the name of Amir Ali Khan, a resident of Nabarangapur district in Odisha.
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The Moscow Times
Jun 19, 2026, 03:26 AM
Odisha May Face Prolonged Dry Spell as Monsoon Slows Down

Odisha May Face Prolonged Dry Spell as Monsoon Slows Down

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha may have to wait longer for widespread rains as the southwest monsoon has gone into a hiatus after its onset on June 12 and the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) extended-range outlook shows little prospect of significant rainfall till July 2. With the monsoon’s advance remaining stuck since June 15, the state has already recorded a 48 per cent rainfall deficit during June 11-17. Weather experts attributed the slowdown to the absence of any significant low-pressure area (LPA) over the Bay of Bengal, a key driver of monsoon progression over eastern India. Usually, the rain-bearing system covers the entire state within four to five days of onset. However, this year, the advance has remained sluggish not only over Odisha but across the country, with both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches of the monsoon currently experiencing a weak phase. An IMD official said low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal act as catalysts for monsoon advancement by strengthening monsoon winds, enhancing moisture transport and helping pull the monsoon current further north. “When a low-pressure area forms, it strengthens both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches of the monsoon. This year, no meaningful system developed at the right time, resulting in weaker monsoon progression across the country, including Odisha,” the official said. The IMD’s extended-range forecast for the periods June 19-25 and June 26-July 2 does not indicate widespread rainfall activity over the state, raising concerns over moisture availability during the crucial early phase of the kharif season.
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The Moscow Times
Jun 19, 2026, 03:20 AM
Kithaganur Lake Rejuvenation Boosts Ecological Health and Water Security in Bengaluru

Kithaganur Lake Rejuvenation Boosts Ecological Health and Water Security in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: The 25-acre Kithaganur lake in East Bengaluru, which had long suffered from silt accumulation, sewage inflow, encroachments and blocked feeder channels, has now been rejuvenated, leading to a significant improvement in its ecological health and water-storage capacity. The restoration has increased the lake’s water-holding capacity by 22%, benefiting more than 24,000 residents in surrounding localities. The project involved scientific de-silting, strengthening and fencing of lake boundaries, clearing feeder channels, biodiversity enhancement measures and community engagement activities aimed at ensuring long-term conservation of the water body. The lake, which had gradually lost much of its capacity due to years of neglect and urban pressure, now supports nearly 65 species of flora and fauna. Environmental experts associated with the project estimate that the restored ecosystem will contribute close to nine tonnes of carbon sequestration annually, while also improving groundwater recharge and local biodiversity. The rejuvenated lake was formally handed over to the gram panchayat on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day. Speaking at the event, Mahadevpura MLA Manjula Arvind Limbavali said lake restoration should be followed by sustained efforts to protect the ecosystem and prevent it from slipping back into a degraded state. She stressed the need for active participation from local authorities, waste management teams and residents in safeguarding the lake. The restoration was undertaken under the Wake the Lake initiative, a programme focused on reviving Bengaluru’s rapidly shrinking and polluted water bodies. The restoration was undertaken through a collaborative effort involving Daimler Truck Innovation Center India, United Way Bengaluru, local authorities and community stakeholders. Stakeholders involved in the project said the revival of Kithaganur Lake demonstrates how scientific restoration and community participation can help improve urban water security while restoring ecological balance in the city.
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Dainik Bhaskar
Jun 19, 2026, 02:56 AM
Pre-Monsoon Rains Hit Several States in India; Temperatures Remain High

Pre-Monsoon Rains Hit Several States in India; Temperatures Remain High

The country is experiencing pre-monsoon rains in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, and Delhi. The monsoon has reached 19 states in 15 days after hitting Kerala on June 4. The monsoon has been stuck on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh for the past 5 days. Hissar in Haryana received heavy rain on Thursday. Several vehicles were hit by trees. There were hailstorms in Sirsa. Six districts, including Indore-Guna in MP, received hailstorms. Temperatures in seven states, including UP-Rajasthan, are above 40 ° C despite the pre-monsoon being active. On Thursday, the highest temperature in the country was recorded in Banda, UP. According to data till June 18, the worst situation was in Maharashtra, which received 78% less rainfall than normal, followed by 79% less rainfall in Gujarat. The Meteorological Department in Rajasthan has issued an alert in 30 districts, including Churu, Sriganganagar, Hanuman, and Jhunjhunjhunu, for the third consecutive monsoon season in 2024, despite a long break from normal.
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The Moscow Times
Jun 19, 2026, 02:48 AM
Chaos Erupts as Chhattisgarh's Abujhmad Forests Open Up After Maoist Era

Chaos Erupts as Chhattisgarh's Abujhmad Forests Open Up After Maoist Era

Thousands of trees are being felled in the dense forests of Abujhmad in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur as the administration feels helpless because the region still falls under the ‘unsurveyed area’ category. For decades, the forested terrain remained insulated due to the Maoists’ dominance. Now for the first time, a formal land revenue survey is being conducted in this ‘unsurveyed’ region to establish land records. The district administration admitted that trees are being felled as villagers have been practising shifting cultivation on a large scale. However, local sources revealed that the area, now open for the first time after the Maoists were eliminated, has triggered a chaotic race among people to claim ownership of forest lands. “Abujhmad has remained an unsurveyed territory since Independence. Consequently, the forest department lacks a regular regulatory setup or permanent field staff stationed within the area. Revenue department is executing a land survey,” Narayanpur DFO Venkatesh M G told this newspaper. After the liberation of this region from Maoist influence, administrative access has opened up. “We are closely monitoring the situation. Villagers stated they have been practising shifting cultivation, which results in the felling of trees. No outsiders will be allowed to grab or encroach forest land,” said Narayanpur collector Namrata Jain. Environmentalists warned of devastating impact on ecology. “Abujhmad spans over 4,000 sq km and is recognised as a vital carbon sink and biodiversity hotspot. It is a habitat for rare wildlife,” said Nitin Singhvi, an environmentalist.
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NorthEast Now
Jun 19, 2026, 02:45 AM
Shillong Airport Expansion Delayed Due to Pending Safety Clearances

Shillong Airport Expansion Delayed Due to Pending Safety Clearances

Work on the long-awaited expansion of Shillong Airport remains stuck despite key approvals and the award of a construction contract, with pending aviation safety clearances preventing the project from moving to the execution stage. The issue came under scrutiny in the Meghalaya High Court , where a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice W Diengdoh noted that construction was expected to begin about 45 days ago. However, the required safety approval has yet to be issued, delaying the start of on-ground activities. The Bench observed that the clearance is essential before machinery and construction equipment can be deployed at the site. It cautioned that any prolonged delay could affect both the completion schedule and the overall cost of the project, ultimately increasing the financial burden on the public. The airport modernisation project is aimed at improving connectivity to Meghalaya and reducing dependence on the road journey to Guwahati. Although environmental permission was granted in March and the construction contract was awarded soon after, work has not commenced so far. During the proceedings, Advocate General A. Kumar informed the court that the land exchange process with defence authorities has been completed, removing a major obstacle to the planned runway expansion. The court was also informed by Deputy Solicitor General of India Dr Mozika that technical and safety-related documents are still under review by the Airports Authority of India headquarters. Once that process is completed, the papers will be forwarded to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for examination and approval. The project involves increasing the runway length, expanding terminal infrastructure and developing an additional apron for aircraft operations. Under the terms of the contract awarded to M/s KCC Buildcon Pvt. Ltd., the work is to be completed within 18 months. The timeline includes a provision for weather-related disruptions during Meghalaya’s monsoon period. Seeking progress on the matter, the High Court asked the Deputy Solicitor General to provide an update at the next hearing regarding the status of the pending approvals. The court also called for quicker processing of the remaining clearances to avoid further setbacks to the project.
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ABP News
Jun 19, 2026, 02:43 AM
Environmental Crisis Unfolds at Jaswantpura Village: Pond Water Declared Unsafe

Environmental Crisis Unfolds at Jaswantpura Village: Pond Water Declared Unsafe

A serious environmental and public health crisis has emerged over the Dharma pond at Jaswantpura in Gram Panchayat Baira on the National Highway in Bhilwara district of Rajasthan. Baneda Sub-Divisional Officer Babu Lal has imposed prohibitory orders in the entire area as a precautionary measure after the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) investigation report declared the pond water unsafe for human and animal consumption. Instructions have been issued to people to strictly follow the prohibitory orders by pasting copies of the order outside tea stalls, chaupals and grocery shops and by making announcements from mikes in the village. Jaswantpura village has a settlement of more than 300 houses. A large number of fish, aquatic creatures, birds and animals started dying in the Dharma pond of Jaswantpura village in the past few days. Concern was raised among the villagers after the death of thousands of fish. Dead fish were seen floating on the surface of the pond, followed by a letter from the local health department.
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The Moscow Times
Jun 19, 2026, 02:36 AM
Andhra Pradesh Ranks Fifth Nationally in Land Restoration and Carbon Sequestration Efforts

Andhra Pradesh Ranks Fifth Nationally in Land Restoration and Carbon Sequestration Efforts

VIJAYAWADA: AP has ranked fifth among States in both the extent of land brought under restoration and carbon sequestration achieved through restoration efforts, according to India’s Second Progress Report on the Bonn Challenge: 2011-2020 Assessment of Progress in Restoration Efforts Across the States and Union Territories, released by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. The report states that 1.61 million hectares of land in the State had been brought under restoration between 2011 and 2020. Data submitted by the State Forest Department show that a total of 16,12,934 hectares were restored during the period, while the Department of Land Resources (DoLR) reported an additional 655 hectares restored between 2018 and 2020. The State also secured the fifth position nationally in carbon sequestration, with restoration activities contributing an estimated 19.79 million tonnes of carbon (tC) after accounting for mortality. Carbon sequestration was estimated using the IPCC Good Practice Guidance for Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) methodology. Without factoring in mortality, the sequestration was estimated at 26.39 million tonnes of carbon. In carbon dioxide equivalent terms, restoration efforts are estimated to have sequestered 72.64 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent after accounting for mortality. The report highlights steady progress in restoration activities across AP during the assessment period. The area brought under restoration increased from 6,981 hectares in 2011-12 to 198,920 hectares in 2019-20, with the highest annual restoration of 312,186 hectares recorded in 2018-19.
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The Daily Guardian
Jun 19, 2026, 02:35 AM
Signify Reaffirms Commitment to Creating Safer and Sustainable Rural Communities through Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR Initiative

Signify Reaffirms Commitment to Creating Safer and Sustainable Rural Communities through Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR Initiative

NewsVoir New Delhi [India], June 18: In line with its #BrighterLivesBetterWorld vision, Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, reaffirmed its commitment to creating safer, resilient, and sustainable rural communities through its flagship CSR initiative Signify Har Gaon Roshan at the Human-Animal Conflict: Challenges and Future Strategy event, Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh. The event was graced by Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), and Shri K. P. Malik, Hon’ble Minister of State, Forest, Environment and Zoological Parks Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, V. Hekali Zhimomi, IAS Principal Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Anuradha Vemuri, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Government of Uttar Pradesh, senior policymakers, forest officials, members of the Tharu tribal community and conservation experts were also present to address challenges faced by communities residing in forest fringe areas where a host of reasons increase the vulnerability to human-wildlife encounters. Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative updates shared during the event: – Terai region impact: Successfully impacted over 400 forest fringe villages, since 2019 – Wider Footprint: Installed over 9000 LED streetlights across 400 villages in Uttar Pradesh (in and around Pilibhit, Dudhwa, Amangarh Tiger Reserves, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagina, Chitrakoot, and Bahraich) – Future Expansion: Signify presented a Letter of Intent (LoI) for the installation of 1500 additional LED streetlights across 67 villages with high rate of human-wildlife conflict in the Katarniaghat landscape. – Coffee Table book launch: focused on the impact of the recent project in Dudhwa National Park through real stories, illustrating how access to light has helped create safer public spaces and enhance community resilience. Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, highlighted the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict in forest landscapes and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts involving government departments, experts, civil society organizations, CSR initiatives and local communities to develop practical and sustainable solutions. He commended Signify for its contribution to community safety and rural development through Signify Har Gaon Roshan CSR initiative and congratulated the organization for expanding its support to forest fringe communities across Uttar Pradesh. Through Har Gaon Roshan, Signify continues to support rural communities through innovative lighting solutions that improve safety, strengthen community resilience, and contribute to sustainable development outcomes, working in partnership with BharatCares. About Signify Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products, connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating. News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.) (The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)
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Aaj Tak
Jun 19, 2026, 02:32 AM
India's Southwest Monsoon Stalls, Leaving 66% of Country Experiencing Rain Deficits or Drought

India's Southwest Monsoon Stalls, Leaving 66% of Country Experiencing Rain Deficits or Drought

The southwest monsoon has almost stopped in the country at this time. According to meteorologists, the northern limit of the monsoon has remained stable at both ends. The western end is stuck at Harnai in Maharashtra since June 8, while the eastern border is limited to Muzaffarpur in Bihar. There has been no significant expansion of the monsoon beyond this. According to Skymet, about 66 percent of the country is either rain-deficient or experiencing severe drought conditions. The greatest impact is seen in central India, where the rain deficit has reached 70 to 80 percent. All meteorological subdivisions of the central region have recorded heavy monsoon deficits. Due to western disturbances and upper atmospheric systems, some periodic rains have been occurring in northwest India, which has led to a relatively better situation there. However, eastern Uttar Pradesh is also now beginning to experience a rain deficit. According to experts, the monsoon deficit in the month of June can be 50 percent directly due to the arrival of the kharif season. This can become a concern for farmers and the agricultural sector.
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ABP News
Jun 19, 2026, 02:29 AM
Uttar Pradesh Hit by Severe Heat Wave Alert as Temperatures Soar

Uttar Pradesh Hit by Severe Heat Wave Alert as Temperatures Soar

The mercury has once again started rising in Uttar Pradesh. Due to the strong sunshine and humid heat, it has become difficult to get out of the house. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert of severe heat wave in more than 26 districts of the state including Prayagraj-Varanasi even today. Although there may be sporadic drizzle in some districts, it will not give relief from the heat to the people. The Meteorological Department has issued a warning of dry weather today in Meerut, Moradabad, Rampur, Sambhal, Bareilly, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Badaun Lakhimpur Kheri, Bahraich, Shravasti in western UP. The sky in these districts is clear and there will be bright sunshine. Along with this, there is a warning of heat wave in some places. The maximum temperature in these districts is expected to be 38-42 degrees. While Sangam City Prayagraj is also on fire. Prayagraj has been the hottest district in the state in the last 24 hours, Jaunpur has crossed 45 degrees.
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The Moscow Times
Jun 19, 2026, 02:20 AM
Tamil Nadu Revokes Environmental Clearance for Brigade's 'Brigade Morgan Heights' Project in Chennai

Tamil Nadu Revokes Environmental Clearance for Brigade's 'Brigade Morgan Heights' Project in Chennai

CHENNAI: In a major setback to Chennai-based builder Brigade Enterprises Limited, which is carrying out a huge residential project named ‘Brigade Morgan Heights’ near Pallikaranai, the Tamil Nadu State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) has revoked the environmental clearance (EC) accorded to the company in January 2025. The decision to revoke was taken during a meeting of the authority on May 8. As per the minutes of meeting, the EC has been revoked based on a letter from Tamil Nadu State Wetland Authority (TNSWA). In the letter to SEIAA on April 16, the TNSWA alleged that the company had commenced the construction works without obtaining permission from the wetland authority, one of the conditions imposed while according clearance for the project. Earlier, Arappor Iyakkam, an anti-graft forum, had alleged that the previous government and the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) issued the approvals, including building plan permission, by violating Ramsar norms. The organisation also demanded the government to take steps to revoke building plan permission for the project that covers 14.7 acres with 1,250 apartments and a total built up area of 31.26 lakh sqft. It was alleged that the planning authority issued plan approval within days after the SEIAA accorded the EC.
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Dainik Jagran
Jun 19, 2026, 02:07 AM
Bihar Expects Reduced Rainfall, Sweltering Temperatures as Monsoon Weakens

Bihar Expects Reduced Rainfall, Sweltering Temperatures as Monsoon Weakens

Due to the weakening of the monsoon in the state, many districts including Patna will experience a decrease in rainfall. The state is likely to receive less than normal rainfall during the next seven days. Conditions are becoming favourable for further advancement of the monsoon into other parts of the state during the next four to five days. According to the Meteorological Center Patna, the maximum temperature of most parts of the state is expected to be 38 to 42 ° C during the five days. Thunderstorm with lightning and light rain are predicted in 20 districts including Patna during the next 24 hours. The wind speed will be 50-60 kmph in these places. An orange alert has been issued for heavy rainfall in Begusarai, Lakhisarai and Munger of the state. The maximum temperature of 16 districts including Patna fell on Thursday. Patna remained the hottest place in the state with a maximum temperature of 40.3 ° C and 42.5 ° C.
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DNA Hindi
Jun 19, 2026, 01:47 AM
Monsoon Delays Bring Relief in Some Areas, Heat Wave Continues Elsewhere

Monsoon Delays Bring Relief in Some Areas, Heat Wave Continues Elsewhere

What will be the weather in Delhi NCR today. Thunderstorm and rain may occur in these districts from Dehradun in Uttarakhand. Monsoon is running very late, when will it pick up speed. Weather will be from Bihar to Rajasthan. People from Delhi NCR to Uttarakhand can get relief from heat and heat today. According to the Meteorological Department, today there is a possibility of rain with thunderstorm in Noida, Ghaziabad to Faridabad areas of Delhi NCR. There may be heavy rain in many districts including Dehradun in Uttarakhand. However, people from Bihar to Rajasthan will still face the heat. There will be scorching sun and hot winds. So it is very important to avoid them. Let's know the weather condition. Not only the common people are troubled due to the delay in the monsoon. Its delay is also hurting the farmers. Due to its delay, many crops are badly affected. The monsoon was stopped at one place for the last 2 weeks, which is now moving slowly and according to the weather department, the temperature of the monsoon is increasing very slowly.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 19, 2026, 01:42 AM
NCR's Environmental Regulations: Burdensome or Beneficial?

NCR's Environmental Regulations: Burdensome or Beneficial?

Being part of the NCR, they face stringent environmental regulations, Grap restrictions, ban on second-hand vehicles, control on construction activities, and stricter standards for industries. Farmers are also under additional pressure of stubble management. It is natural to question why the burden of restrictions should be borne when the expected benefits are not being realised. But the future of a region is not decided by the present inconveniences alone. The government has probably retained the existing boundaries of the NCR with this broad thinking. Haryana's 25,327 sq km area falls in the Ad NCR region. It is 46 per cent of the entire NCR. In the NCR region of Uttar Pradesh, after Noida, Greater Noida, the metro has reached Sahibabad but only Gurugram and Faridabad districts of Haryana are not fully covered. The Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut rail project from Delhi to Karnal is pending since 2020. Presently, the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor is on priority. The rapid rail projects from Meerut to Ghaziabad are now operational in parts of Haryana.
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Dainik Jagran
Jun 19, 2026, 01:37 AM
IMD Issues High Alert for Heavy Rain, Hail, and Thunderstorms Across 11 States

IMD Issues High Alert for Heavy Rain, Hail, and Thunderstorms Across 11 States

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high alert for heavy rain, hail, and thunderstorms in 11 states of the country, including the national capital Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, within the next 15 hours. According to the Meteorological Department, destructive winds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour are expected during this period, which is expected to cause damage to life and property. According to meteorologists, the monsoon has been stuck in one place for the past two weeks, causing dry winds and severe heat in the plains. However, now a strong weather system has been formed due to moist winds coming from the Bay of Bengal and the activation of a new western disturbance. This is why the weather has suddenly turned in large parts of northern and central India. The IMD has warned that along with the rains, the thunderstorms and lightning in these states, the administration has advised the people to stay away from the houses and signboards.
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Indian Express
Jun 19, 2026, 01:33 AM
Meta Invests in AI-Enabled Data Centre in Jamnagar, India

Meta Invests in AI-Enabled Data Centre in Jamnagar, India

Talking about the upcoming Jamnagar data centre of the company, Santosh Janardhan, Vice President (Infrastructure), Meta, said on Thursday, “It will be part of a global fleet serving that global audience. We’re opening this data centre in India because we think India is an attractive investment destination.” Last week, Meta announced that it has entered a partnership with Reliance Industries to lease its first AI-enabled data centre in India. The tech giant’s decision to back a 168-megawatt AI-enabled data centre in Gujarat’s Jamnagar is more than just a major infrastructure investment. While the benefits for Indian consumers will be indirect initially, they will be potentially significant later. For the company, it reflects a broader belief that India is becoming increasingly key to the future of global digital infrastructure. Speaking during a media roundtable, Janardhan described the Jamnagar facility as part of the company’s worldwide network of interconnected computing systems rather than a standalone centre serving only local users. “Think about infrastructure as a bunch of super-connected supercomputers, all interconnected globally,” Janardhan said. “The facility will not be limited to a single product or workload. It is being designed as a highly flexible data centre capable of supporting a wide range of services and AI workloads globally,” he added. The executive explained that every interaction across Meta’s platforms, be it a Reel on Instagram, a WhatsApp message, or a comment from a user thousands of miles away, is powered by multiple data centres working together in real time. “When you post a reel or comment on Instagram, someone from Europe, India, or the US can interact with it in real time. It’s not a single server or single computer handling this. It’s a series of interconnected data centres working together globally to make that happen,” he told indianexpress.com. According to Janardhan, the Jamnagar facility will become part of Meta’s global infrastructure fleet, capable of supporting workloads across the company’s ecosystem rather than being dedicated to a specific product or region. “The point I’m making is it takes a global network to enable a global network,” he said. “When we open the Jamnagar data centre, it will be part of a global fleet serving that global audience.” The investment comes at a crucial time when technology companies are racing to expand their computing capacity to support increasingly demanding AI workloads. While Meta has not detailed exactly what AI functions will run from Jamnagar, Janardhan stressed the fact that flexibility is becoming a key requirement for modern infrastructure. “If we do our job right, we should have a highly flexible data centre that can serve a lot of traffic around the world,” he said. “It won’t be restricted to just Instagram or WhatsApp; it will be capable of serving our entire ecosystem.” For India, the announcement also signals growing recognition of the country’s role in global technology infrastructure. Janardhan said Meta’s decision was driven by a combination of consumer demand, infrastructure requirements, and India’s broader technology ecosystem. “We’re opening this data centre in India because we think India is an attractive investment destination,” he said. “There’s a confluence of factors: consumer demand; our infrastructure needs; and the essential ingredients for a data centre, land, power, network, and cooling, all aligned well with what India offers and Meta needs.” When asked what factors influence where Meta builds AI infrastructure, Janardhan argued that the answer extends far beyond real estate or energy availability. “Infrastructure is a loaded term,” he said. “It’s not just about data centres. It’s the hardware we deploy, the custom silicon we develop, and the engineers who work on all of this.” For physical facilities, Meta evaluates four key requirements: land, power, network connectivity, and water. However, the company’s long-term investment decisions largely depend on the availability of talent and supportive policy environments. “Talent density” remains one of India’s biggest strengths, according to Janardhan. “Do you have talent across a broad spectrum? Not just one or two domains, but across many like hardware, software, distributed systems, and silicon design,” he said. “India is one of the few countries that addresses this entire spectrum.” He also pointed to India’s large English-speaking workforce and what he described as a technology-friendly government that provides stability for long-term investments. “The stability and partnership you get from the government matter enormously,” Janardhan said. “This is a government we’ve worked well with.” According to the Meta executive, India’s massive user base also played a role. With hundreds of millions of Indians using Meta’s services daily, the country has become an important source of product feedback and innovation. “Having billions of people who use your products, know your products and can influence product direction helps,” he said. “It helps when you know what you’re building and you use what you’re building.” As AI increasingly reshapes the technology industry, Meta’s Jamnagar investment suggests the company sees India not merely as a large consumer market but as a long-term partner in building the infrastructure that will power the next generation of digital services worldwide. As part of the announcement of its AI-enabled data centre, the Mark Zuckerberg-led company also said that it was partnering with two leading clean energy providers in India, CleanMax and Fourth Partner Energy, to support nearly 1 GW of renewable energy.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 19, 2026, 01:30 AM
Madhya Pradesh Hit by Thunderstorms and Rain Alert Issued for 39 Districts

Madhya Pradesh Hit by Thunderstorms and Rain Alert Issued for 39 Districts

The weather department has issued thunderstorm and rain alert for 39 districts including Bhopal, Sehore, Raisen, Rajgarh, Vidisha, Indore, Ujjain, Dewas, Shajapur, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Ratlam, Agar-Malwa, Narmadapuram, Betul, Harda, Gwalior, Guna, Shivpuri, Datia, Morena, Bhind, Sheopur, Jabalpur, Chhindwara, Seoni, Narsinghpur, Balaghat, Mandla, Dindori, Pandhurna, Anuppur, Sagar, Panna, Damoh, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh and Niwari on Friday.
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ABP News
Jun 19, 2026, 01:14 AM
Delhi-NCR Suffers Scorching Heat Wave with Temperatures Soaring Above 40°C

Delhi-NCR Suffers Scorching Heat Wave with Temperatures Soaring Above 40°C

There seems to be no respite for Delhi-NCR from the scorching heat. In the last two-three days, the mercury has crossed the 40 mark in many parts of the capital. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Delhi-NCR may get some respite from rain and thunderstorm activity. However, the rising temperature is making it difficult for people to leave their homes. According to the IMD, the maximum temperature in Delhi on Thursday (June 18) was 39.5 ° C, while the minimum temperature was 27.9 ° C. The maximum temperature in the city's base station Safdarjung was 39.5 ° C, while the Ridge was 40.3 ° C and Ayanagar was 40.0 ° C. Most parts of Delhi witnessed a rise in the maximum temperature by 1-2 ° C during the last 24 hours, but the minimum temperature has increased by 4-5 ° C. The minimum temperature in Delhi during the last 24 hours varied between 26-28 ° C and 39-40 ° C.
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The Financial Express
Jun 19, 2026, 01:06 AM
India's Power Sector Faces Another Year of Weather-Driven Demand Pressure

India's Power Sector Faces Another Year of Weather-Driven Demand Pressure

India’s power sector could be headed for another year of weather-driven demand pressure, with electricity consumption projected to rise 6-7% year-on-year to 1,810-1,830 billion units (BU) in FY27, after a severe heatwave pushed peak power demand to a record 271 GW in May, according to a Crisil Intelligence report. “Power demand is expected to increase 6-7% on-year in fiscal 2027 to 1,810-1,830 BU, driven by higher temperatures and lower rainfall due to the expected El Niño effect from July 2026, resulting in a rise in cooling demand,” the report said. The forecast comes after India recorded its highest-ever peak power demand of 271 GW in May, nearly 10% higher than the previous fiscal’s peak of 245 GW, as prolonged heatwave conditions boosted cooling requirements across large parts of the country. “May saw a peak power demand of 271 GW, ~10% higher than the 245 GW peak in fiscal 2026. This surge is attributed to increased cooling demand due to severe and prolonged heatwaves,” Crisil said. Electricity demand rose 11.2% year-on-year to 165 BU in May, driven by above-normal temperatures across northern, northwestern, western and central India. Temperatures remained 1-4 degrees Celsius above normal, with Uttar Pradesh’s Banda touching 48.3°C on May 12, among the highest readings recorded during the month. The report noted that manufacturing activity also supported electricity consumption, with the Manufacturing PMI rising to 55.0 in May from 54.7 in April. Industrial and commercial consumers account for nearly half of India’s total electricity demand. For the first two months of FY27, electricity demand increased 7.6% year-on-year, compared with a 1.2% decline during the corresponding period of the previous fiscal, indicating a sharp turnaround in consumption trends. The rise in demand translated into higher power generation across all major fuel sources. Total generation increased nearly 12% year-on-year to 178 BU in May, with renewable energy, coal, hydro and nuclear power all registering growth. “Renewable energy generation increased around 20% on-year in May, supported by capacity additions during the first two months of the fiscal,” the report said. India added 7.4 GW of renewable energy capacity, including small hydro, during April-May, helping renewable generation expand at a faster pace than overall demand growth. However, coal continued to remain the backbone of the power system. Coal-fired generation rose 12% year-on-year and accounted for 68.25% of total generation in May, broadly in line with the FY26 average of 68.36%. “Coal-based generation increased 12% on-year, accounting for 68.25% of total generation in May 2026,” Crisil noted, highlighting the continued dependence on thermal power to manage demand spikes and grid stability. The pressure was also visible in short-term power markets. Real-time market (RTM) volumes increased 15.9% year-on-year to 5,529 million units (MU) from 4,770 MU a year ago, while the average market clearing price rose 21.1% to ₹4.16 per unit. Day-ahead market prices climbed 18.3% to ₹4.8 per unit. Coal inventories at thermal power stations declined as utilities ramped up generation. Stocks fell to 49 million tonnes (MT) at the end of May from 60 MT a year earlier, while coal inventory dropped to 16 days from 21 days. Daily coal requirements increased to 3.10 MT from 2.90 MT, even as dispatches to power plants rose 1.22% year-on-year to around 74 MT. The report said the expected emergence of El Niño conditions from July could keep electricity demand highly weather-sensitive through FY27, with cooling requirements continuing to drive consumption and placing sustained pressure on generation, fuel supplies and power markets.
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The Financial Express
Jun 19, 2026, 01:03 AM
Indian Debt Market Sees Sharp Reversal as Foreign Investors Flock to Bonds

Indian Debt Market Sees Sharp Reversal as Foreign Investors Flock to Bonds

Foreign investors continued to pull money out of Indian equities but debt markets witnessed a sharp reversal in trend as overseas investors increased allocations to bonds amid improving liquidity conditions, easing yields and a series of measures announced by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to attract foreign capital. According to Edelweiss Mutual Fund ‘s latest fixed-income market update, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) withdrew Rs 63,450 crore from equities on a month-to-date basis in June and calendar year-to-date outflows reached Rs 2,88,382 crore, the debt markets have a different story. In shrp contrast, debt markets received net inflows of Rs 22,695 crore in the first half of June, taking fiscal year-to-date debt inflows to Rs 14,626 crore and calendar year-to-date inflows to Rs 30,961 crore. The report said improving domestic liquidity conditions and recent RBI measures aimed at attracting foreign capital into the debt market helped support bond inflows even as investors remained cautious on equities. A key development during the first half of June was the sharp fall in government bond yields following measures announced by the RBI to encourage overseas capital inflows. Edelweiss said bond yields declined after the central bank announced a series of initiatives to attract foreign capital. The RBI expanded avenues for foreign currency inflows through measures linked to foreign currency non-resident deposits, external commercial borrowings and other channels. It also broadened the universe of securities available under the Fully Accessible Route by including all new issuances of 15-year, 30-year and 40-year government securities. Surplus liquidity conditions in the banking system and declining crude oil prices further supported bond prices and contributed to the decline in yields. The easing in yields was not restricted to government securities. The Edelweiss report said activity in the primary corporate bond market has started improving after relatively subdued issuance during the first two months of the financial year, when elevated yields prompted several borrowers to rely on bank financing instead of bond markets . “Yields on high-rated corporate bonds also softened amid growing market confidence that policy support will help stabilize funding conditions and the rupee. The revival in the primary market comes after comparatively muted activity in the first two months of the current financial year,” Edelweiss said. The report pointed to a notable improvement in liquidity conditions across the banking system. Money market rates across certificate of deposit and commercial paper segments declined during the first half of June as RBI measures pushed the financial system into surplus liquidity. According to Edelweiss, lower short-term rates indicate efficient transmission of policy easing across the front end of the yield curve. “The improved liquidity environment facilitated efficient transmission of policy easing to the short end of the curve,” the report said. Another factor supporting Indian debt markets has been the sharp decline in crude oil prices. The report attributed the decline to easing global supply concerns after the United States and Iran announced a framework agreement aimed at ending their conflict. “Crude oil prices declined after the US and Iran said they had agreed on a framework deal to end the war which eased supply concerns,” Edelweiss said. The decline in yields extended beyond benchmark government securities. According to the report, improving foreign inflows, supportive liquidity conditions and expectations of policy stability outweighed inflation concerns and supported demand for state-issued debt. Government bond markets also benefited from the RBI’s decision to expand the range of securities eligible under the Fully Accessible Route, a move aimed at making Indian sovereign debt more accessible to foreign investors. International fixed-income markets provided an additional tailwind for debt assets. The report noted that improving global risk sentiment and declining energy prices contributed to stronger demand for bonds across major markets. At the same time, Indian debt markets stood out because of improving domestic liquidity conditions and targeted RBI measures designed to attract foreign capital. Edelweiss said foreign investors continued to reduce exposure to Indian equities amid global uncertainty and profit-booking, but debt markets have begun attracting fresh overseas money as liquidity conditions improve and bond yields move lower.
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Aaj Tak
Jun 19, 2026, 01:02 AM
India Expects Scattered Rainfall Amid Heatwave and Dust Storm Warnings

India Expects Scattered Rainfall Amid Heatwave and Dust Storm Warnings

On the one hand, there are signs of rain in many states of the country, on the other hand, heat wave and dust storm warnings have been issued in some parts of northern India. At the same time, the southwest monsoon is still weak and its expansion has stopped. According to meteorologists, light to moderate rain with heavy spells in some places can be seen in parts of interior Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal and Assam. Also, light to moderate rain is expected in northeast India, northeast Bihar, south Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, western Himalayan region, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Light rain may occur in some places in Odisha, Vidarbha, southeast Rajasthan, south and east Gujarat and Konkan and Goa. However, this rain will be sporadic and not continuous. There is a possibility of dust storm with thunderstorms in the states of northwest India - Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi. Light to moderate rain is also expected in some parts of northeast India. Heatwave conditions are expected in the northern parts of the country.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 19, 2026, 12:46 AM
Western Disturbance Brings Heavy Rains and Thunderstorms to Northwest India

Western Disturbance Brings Heavy Rains and Thunderstorms to Northwest India

According to the Meteorological Department, the Western Disturbance, which has become active since 18th June, will affect the weather in northwest India. Along with this, other weather systems present in different parts of the country are also active, due to which different weather patterns can be seen in different regions. There will be heavy rains and strong winds in some areas, while humidity and heat can increase the problems of the people. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to bad weather conditions in the sea areas as well. Under the influence of the Western Disturbance, thunderstorms with gusty winds speed reaching 40 to 50 kmph are expected in Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir and Chandigarh. Hailstorm is also expected in some areas of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. Weather may be relatively more severe in Rajasthan. Advertisement Delhi NCR is likely to experience cloudy weather throughout the day on Friday. Light rain or thundershowers are expected in some areas during evening or night. Wind speed reaching 50 kmph is predicted in Maharashtra, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Goa and West Bengal during this period.
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Aaj Tak
Jun 19, 2026, 12:15 AM
El-Nino Threatens Panama Canal Operations as US-Iran Deal Brings Stability to Strait of Hormuz

El-Nino Threatens Panama Canal Operations as US-Iran Deal Brings Stability to Strait of Hormuz

After the US-Iran deal, when the tension around the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed for months, has raised hopes of stability, another important route of maritime trade has been threatened. The reason for this is not a military action, but El-Nino. The return of El-Nino in the Pacific Ocean can again threaten the work in the Panama Canal, which is one of the most important trade routes in the world. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the United States has officially said that El Nino has become a situation in the Pacific Ocean region and has warned that by the end of 2026 this weather event can become one of the strongest ever. According to NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, there is an 88 percent chance that El Nino between November and January will reach "strong intensity" and 63 percent chance that it will be "very strong," if it is equal to both ID2 and ID3 weather events worldwide.
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The Financial Express
Jun 19, 2026, 12:00 AM
The Lindy Effect: How Time Can Be Your Friend in Investing

The Lindy Effect: How Time Can Be Your Friend in Investing

Picture a deli on Broadway in the early 1960s. It is past midnight. The booths are full of comedians and stage actors, picking at cheesecake and arguing about one thing: whose career was going to last. They were a superstitious lot, and over the years they settled on a strange little rule. A comedian who had already survived ten years in the business would probably get ten more. A Broadway show that had run two years would likely run two more. The longer you had lasted, the longer you were going to last. The deli was called Lindy’s. The rule took its name. It sounds like a joke, and it began as one. A writer named Albert Goldman first put it on paper in 1964, in The New Republic, as a scrap of show-business folklore. But there is real steel inside it. For things that can rot, like fruit, or a single human body, every passing year brings you closer to the end. For things that do not rot, like ideas, books, technologies and businesses, age works the other way around. Every extra year a thing survives is fresh proof that it can survive. Decades later the writer Nassim Taleb gave the idea the name the markets now use, the Lindy Effect, and a clean test that goes with it: a book that has stayed in print for forty years can be expected to stay in print for another forty. Warren Buffett never sat in those booths. But he has spent sixty years betting on exactly what those comedians worked out over cheesecake. His entire method is a Lindy bet. For an Indian investor in 2026, drowning in expiry-day tips and the next can’t-miss IPO, this old deli idea may be the most useful thing Buffett never said out loud. Let us unpack it. The Lindy Effect flips a comfortable assumption on its head. We tend to feel that new is safer. The latest phone, the freshest listing, the company that did not exist five years ago. New feels like the future. Old feels like it is on the way out. For anything perishable, that instinct is right. But a business is not a banana. A brand, a daily habit, a network of loyal customers, none of these has an expiry date stamped on it. When something like that has already lasted through wars, recessions and changing fashions, its survival is not luck. It is information. It is quietly telling you the thing is hard to kill. That is the whole idea, and it is deeper than it looks. Survival is evidence. The market is one long, brutal stress test, and the names still standing after thirty or fifty years have passed an exam the shiny new listing has not even sat for yet. Look at what Buffett actually owns and a pattern jumps out. Coca-Cola , selling fizzy sugar water since 1886. See’s Candies, a boxed-chocolate maker he has held since 1972. Razor blades, insurance , railways , bricks, furniture. Almost nothing he loves is new, and almost nothing he loves is exciting. He hunts for businesses whose products will look much the same in twenty years as they do today. He says it plainly. “ Time is the friend of the wonderful business, the enemy of the mediocre ,” he wrote in his 1989 letter to shareholders. A great business grows stronger as the years pass and weak rivals drop away. A poor one just bleeds you slowly while you sit and wait for it to come good. What makes a business wonderful, in his eyes, is a moat. Some durable edge that keeps rivals out, year after year. In a 1999 essay for Fortune, he boiled the whole job of an investor down to one line: the key, he wrote, is “ determining the competitive advantage of any given company and, above all, the durability of that advantage .” Not how big an industry might get. How long the edge will hold. That is a Lindy test wearing a business suit. It is also why he is happy to pay a full price for real quality. He would rather own a genuinely good company at a fair price than a weak one just because it looks cheap on the screen. The cheap, fragile business is the comedian nobody remembers next season. The strong one is the act that keeps selling out the house, decade after decade. Here is where Buffett and the deli truly meet. If survival is the edge, then time is on your side, and the obvious move is to give your best businesses as much of it as you possibly can. He has never been shy about this. “ Our favorite holding period is forever ,” he wrote back in 1988. A few years later he sharpened it into a question every buyer should ask before clicking confirm: “ If you aren’t willing to own a stock for ten years, don’t even think about owning it for ten minutes .” And his trick for all the years in between? Mostly, do nothing. “ Lethargy bordering on sloth remains the cornerstone of our investment style ,” he wrote in 1990, only half joking. While the rest of the market churned in and out, paying fees and taxes and second-guessing every wobble, he sat still. The good business kept compounding. The Lindy clock kept ticking in his favour. Patience here is not a personality quirk. It is the strategy. India has just lived through the loudest trading boom in its history, and the scoreboard is brutal. A SEBI study found that around 93 of every 100 individual traders in equity futures and options lost money over the three years to March 2024, with their combined losses crossing Rs 1.8 lakh crore. A later SEBI study kept the figure above 90 per cent. Most of these traders are chasing the newest, fastest thing flashing on the screen. They are doing the exact opposite of Lindy, and the market is sending them the bill. The deli rule offers a far calmer path. Before you buy anything, ask the one question those comedians would have understood at once: has this already lasted? A business that has survived several cycles, kept its customers and held on to its edge has told you something a three-month-old story stock simply cannot. India is full of such survivors, if you bother to look past the noise. The Bombay Stock Exchange has been running since 1875, the oldest in Asia. The Tata group has been in business since 1868, through an empire, two world wars and every storm since. Names like these are not magic, and a long past is never a cast-iron promise of a long future. But they have, at the very least, passed a test the latest hot listing has not even shown up for. Here is the lovely twist in the tale. Lindy’s, the deli that started all of this, eventually shut its doors for good. The idea it handed the world outlived the building, which is about the most Lindy thing that could possibly happen. That is the lesson Buffett quietly lived for six decades. Forget the screen flashing red and green. Forget the tip that simply has to be acted on before the closing bell. Find the few businesses that have already proven they are hard to kill, buy them at a sensible price, and then do the hardest thing of all, which is to leave them well alone and let time do the heavy lifting. The comedians at Lindy’s were arguing about who would still be funny in ten years. Buffett just asked the same question about companies, and answered it with one of the greatest fortunes of the age. For an investor staring at the next big thing, that is a question worth borrowing. Not “how new and exciting is this?” but “how long has this already lasted?” The purpose of this article is only to share interesting charts, data points, and thought-provoking opinions. It is NOT a recommendation. If you wish to consider an investment, you are strongly advised to consult your advisor. This article is strictly for educative purposes only. Suhel Khan has been a passionate follower of the markets for over a decade. During this period, he was an integral part of a leading Equity Research organisation based in Mumbai as the Head of Sales & Marketing. Presently, he is spending most of his time dissecting the investments and strategies of the Super Investors of India.
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The Daily Guardian
Jun 18, 2026, 10:55 PM
Kosmoderma Opens New Premium Clinic in Adyar, Chennai

Kosmoderma Opens New Premium Clinic in Adyar, Chennai

VMPL Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], June 18: Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Body Clinics has opened its new premium clinic at No. 69, 3rd Floor, Kamaraj Avenue, II Street, Adyar, Chennai – 600020. The clinic is open Monday through Sunday, 10 AM to 7 PM. Walk-ins are welcome. Appointments can be booked at www.kosmoderma.com or by calling +91 76767 57575. THE NEWS The Adyar clinic is Kosmoderma latest expansion in Chennai and its most accessible location yet for residents in the southern parts of the city. It offers over 600 customized aesthetic treatments. All performed by certified dermatologists using US FDA-approved technologies and medical-grade products. Kosmoderma is the first aesthetic brand in India to receive NABH accreditation. The accreditation reflects the brand’s focus on safety protocols, treatment standards, hygiene, and patient care. The brand has delivered this standard of care to more than 2.26 lakh clients over 20 years. Clinic Address No. 69, 3rd Floor, Kamaraj Avenue, II Street, Adyar, Chennai 600020 Open Daily: 10 AM – 7 PM | Walk-ins Welcome SERVICES OFFERED The clinic treats a full range of skin, hair, and body concerns that Adyar residents commonly seek care for–including pigmentation, acne scars, hair fall, and anti-aging. Treatments available include: – Acne and acne scar treatments – Pigmentation correction treatments – Laser hair reduction – Anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation therapies (Botox, Dermal Fillers, etc.) – Hair fall and scalp treatments (GFC, QR678, Exosomes, etc.) – Skin tightening and lifting treatments (MNRF, HIFU, Ultherapy®, etc.) – Body contouring and non-surgical fat reduction procedures (CoolSculpting®, HIFU body , etc.) Every treatment is performed by a certified dermatologist–not a technician–no shortcuts on that. Leadership Voices Vanakkam, Chennai! So many people from Adyar and across South Chennai have already been a part of the Kosmoderma family for years, and the love and trust you have given us mean everything to us. Today, with our new Adyar clinic, we are simply extending our hands to serve you closer to home with the same care, expertise, and trust that Kosmoderma is known for. We are truly happy to welcome Adyar even more closely into the Kosmoderma family. Thank you, Chennai, for always being a part of our journey.” — Dr. Chytra V Anand, Founder & CEO, Kosmoderma Franchise Partner The Adyar clinic is led by Ms. Anitha Koti, a passionate entrepreneur who brings both business acumen and a deep belief in accessible, quality healthcare to this venture. Her decision to partner with Kosmoderma reflects a shared commitment that the people of South Chennai deserve world-class aesthetic care, right in their own neighborhood. Partnering with Kosmoderma was a clear choice for me. This is a brand built on trust, clinical excellence, and genuine care for its clients. Bringing that to Adyar is something I am truly proud of, and I look forward to welcoming this community into the Kosmoderma family. — Ms. Anitha Koti, Franchise Owner, Kosmoderma Adyar For us, the Adyar launch reflects one clear priority: bringing the Kosmoderma standard of care closer to more people without ever diluting the quality of the experience. Every Kosmoderma clinic is built on the same foundation — strong systems, dermatologist-led consultations, hospital-grade processes, and a patient journey designed around safety, consistency, and comfort. That is what allows us to deliver the same level of trust whether a patient visits us in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, or Chennai. Our responsibility is not only to expand but also to expand responsibly. Adyar gives South Chennai access to premium aesthetic care that is structured, reliable, and designed to meet the expectations of today’s informed patients. — [Tanuushka K Lal], COO, Kosmoderma Chennai has consistently emerged as one of India’s most aware and quality-conscious markets in aesthetic dermatology, with patients placing increasing importance on medically guided treatments, safety standards, and trusted clinical expertise. What makes the Adyar expansion especially meaningful for us is the strong relationship Kosmoderma has already built with patients and families across South Chennai. Many of them have travelled considerable distances to seek our care, and this clinic allows us to bring the Kosmoderma experience significantly closer to their everyday lives. Today’s consumers are more informed than ever before. They are no longer influenced by exaggerated promises alone; they want transparency, expertise, personalized guidance, and confidence in the medical credibility behind every treatment they choose. That shift strongly reflects the values Kosmoderma has stood for since its inception.” — Dr. Soumitra Das, National Head – Marketing & Sales, Kosmoderma “In aesthetic dermatology, meaningful and safe outcomes are determined long before a procedure begins. They come from accurate diagnosis, clinical judgment, ethical decision-making, and choosing the right treatment plan for the right patient. At Kosmoderma, every treatment recommendation begins with a detailed dermatologist-led assessment because we strongly believe no two individuals should ever be approached with the same treatment strategy. Every skin type, hair concern, lifestyle factor, and aesthetic goal requires careful evaluation and personalized planning. The Adyar clinic has been developed around that same medical philosophy — evidence-based dermatology, scientifically validated technologies, ethical treatment practices, and patient safety integrated into every stage of care. For us, responsible aesthetic medicine will always matter more than trend-driven treatments.” — Dr. Nistha, Medical Head, Kosmoderma WHY IT MATTERS Most aesthetic clinics in India operate with no accreditation, no dermatologist on staff, and equipment that carries no regulatory approval. Patients often have no way to tell the difference until something goes wrong. Kosmoderma’s focus on safety protocols, treatment standards, and exclusive use of US FDA-approved technologies helps remove that guesswork for patients. For Adyar residents, the choice used to be between convenience and quality. That trade-off is gone. The clinic is built to the same standard as every other Kosmoderma location across Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi — and it is now a ten-minute drive away. ABOUT KOSMODERMA Founded in 2006 by globally known Celebrity Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Chytra V. Anand, Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Body Clinics is a premium cosmetic dermatology and aesthetic healthcare brand built on strong clinical expertise, continuous training, and a knowledge-first approach to care. At Kosmoderma, the belief is simple: we do not serve services first–we serve knowledge first, and that knowledge flows into every treatment recommendation and care plan. Each individual is carefully understood, guided, and personalized through every stage of their aesthetic journey, with treatment plans tailored to their unique concerns and goals. More than a clinic, Kosmoderma strives to be a family, where trust, care, and guidance extend beyond the individual to the people they care about as well. MEDIA CONTACT Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Body Clinics Phone: +91 76767 57575 Email: centralenquiry@kosmoderma.com Website: www.kosmoderma.com (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.) (The article has been published through a syndicated feed. Except for the headline, the content has been published verbatim. Liability lies with original publisher.)
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Indian Express
Jun 18, 2026, 09:16 PM
Shiv Sena (UBT) Issues Show-Cause Notices to Rebel MPs, Vows to Continue Fight

Shiv Sena (UBT) Issues Show-Cause Notices to Rebel MPs, Vows to Continue Fight

The split in Shiv Sena (UBT) became virtually official on Thursday after six of the party’s nine Lok Sabha MPs skipped a parliamentary party meeting, prompting the leadership to issue show-cause notices to the rebels. “We have issued show-cause notices to the MPs who did not attend; they have been given seven days to respond. The process has been initiated, and we will seek their disqualification. If the Speaker acts according to the law and rules, they will be disqualified. The fight will continue in Parliament, in court, and on the streets. The fight on the streets has already begun. The security of these traitors has been enhanced. Let them even bring in the Indian Army. That is the only thing left to be deployed for the security of traitors,” Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut said. Earlier in the day, only three party MPs — Arvind Sawant, Anil Desai and Rajabhau Waje — attended the parliamentary party meeting in Delhi . Sanjay Patil, Omraje Nimbalkar, Sanjay Jadhav, Sanjay Deshmukh, Bhausaheb Wakchaure and Nagesh Patil Ashtikar were absent. The notice stated that the whip “was duly received by you on your registered email ID and WhatsApp”, creating a formal record that the communication had been officially delivered to the concerned MPs. It further stated that the MPs had “neither communicated with the group leader, Sawant, nor with the undersigned chief whip, giving any reason or intimation regarding your absence from the said meeting. This absence is viewed as anti-party activity”. The Sena (UBT) on Wednesday had issued a three-line whip directing all its Lok Sabha MPs to attend the meeting amid reports that two-thirds of the party’s MPs were preparing to cross over in an attempt to avoid disqualification under the anti-defection law. The party has already met Speaker Om Birla and urged him not to recognise any breakaway faction. Sena (UBT) leaders argued that under Paragraph 4 of the Tenth Schedule, protection from disqualification is available only when at least two-thirds of members of the “original party” merge with another party and the legislature party also supports such a merger by a two-thirds majority. Despite Patil, Wakchaure and Ashtikar claiming on Wednesday that they were not defecting, their absence from the 11 am meeting indicated that they had joined the rebel camp. Sena (UBT) sources said the party had been particularly hopeful of retaining Ashtikar, as his son is contesting the MLC elections with the party’s backing. With hopes of persuading some rebels to reconsider appearing to have faded, Raut struck a defiant note, telling reporters: “Jo aayenge wo hamare; jo nahin aayenge wo beimaan-gaddaar” (Those who come are ours; those who do not are dishonest and traitors). Meanwhile, the rebel MPs are learnt to have passed a resolution stating that they were leaving because the party had strayed from Balasaheb Thackeray’s principles and because of concerns that it could eventually merge with the Congress. Sawant, meanwhile, told The Indian Express that voters “will teach the rebelling MPs a lesson for going against Balasaheb Thackeray’s party”. Raut also questioned the legitimacy claims of the Eknath Shinde-led faction and asked when Shinde’s Sena had become the original Shiv Sena. Referring to the pending Supreme Court proceedings on the party split, he said: “Jahan Thackeray, wahan Shiv Sena (Shiv Sena is where Thackeray is)”. He also accused the ruling establishment of engineering defections. “What kind of game is being played with democracy? You keep saying you will break this one, break that one. How many will you break? How much fun are you having? These ED and CBI threats — whom are you threatening? Us? We have already gone to jail and come back. We are ready to go to jail again.” Constitutional experts say the legal route available to the Sena (UBT) may be more complicated than a straightforward disciplinary matter. “A whip is unquestionably applicable to proceedings inside the House. However, whether it applies to an internal parliamentary party meeting remains legally ambiguous. The issue of the applicability of a whip outside House proceedings is still pending before the Supreme Court,” constitutional expert Anant Kalse said. Kalse said the show-cause notices may have limited immediate effect if the rebel MPs have already initiated formal legal steps. “If these MPs have already formed a separate group and submitted a letter to the Speaker, then issuing notices now may not make much difference. Even if notices are issued, what happens if they simply do not respond and proceed ahead? In that case, Sena (UBT)’s immediate option would be to approach the Speaker, file a disqualification petition and then move the court,” he said.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 09:14 PM
Western Disturbance Brings Unsettled Weather, Power Cuts in Region

Western Disturbance Brings Unsettled Weather, Power Cuts in Region

Under the influence of a western disturbance, light drizzle and gusty winds on Tuesday led to a slight drop in the temperature, but the humidity has increased. Thereafter, the weather remained clear on Wednesday. Meanwhile, electricity consumption is increasing with the increasing heat, while unannounced power cuts are causing additional trouble for the people. On Sunday, the maximum temperature rose by one degree to 38 ° C, while the minimum temperature was 29 ° C. The wind speed was recorded at 14 kilometers per hour. Rajesh and Suresh, residents of Advertisement Israna, said that with the increasing humidity, the announced and unannounced power cuts have also increased. Work is being affected during the day and power cuts at night are not being able to get enough sleep, which is also affecting the next day's routine. Dr. Rajbir Garg, District Coordinator of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ujha, said that the weather is changing due to the western disturbance. According to him, the weather is likely to remain clear for the next three days, while rains are expected on Monday.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 09:12 PM
Unpredictable Weather Hits Rohtak: Temperature Expected to Rise Before Rain Arrives

Unpredictable Weather Hits Rohtak: Temperature Expected to Rise Before Rain Arrives

Rohtak: The weather has been changing in the district for the past several days. On Thursday, too, the weather was disturbed by bright sunshine throughout the day. However, at around 3 p.m., the winds accompanied by clouds increased the weather slightly. Light to moderate rain is expected in the district till June 22. However, the general public was also disturbed by sand blowing at many places due to strong winds on Thursday. According to the Meteorological Department, the maximum temperature was 41.3 ° C. It is 2. 1 ° C higher than normal. The minimum temperature was 27.8 ° C. It is one degree above normal. The maximum temperature is likely to increase by two to three degrees Celsius in the next 24 hours. No change in temperature is expected after this. Wind speed of 40 to 50 kmph is expected in the district till June 22.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 09:09 PM
New Job-Oriented Diploma Courses Launched at Maharishi Kashyap Government Polytechnic

New Job-Oriented Diploma Courses Launched at Maharishi Kashyap Government Polytechnic

Thermal. Maharishi Kashyap Government Polytechnic, Jatal has introduced two new job oriented diploma courses from the academic session 2026-27. These are Diploma in Environment Engineering and Diploma in Apparel Design and Fashion Technology. The Principal of the institute informed that at present the demand for trained technicians in environmental protection, pollution control and fashion and apparel industry is constantly increasing. Keeping this in mind, these two new courses have been started. Opportunities will be found in the advertising environment sector. Under Diploma in Environment Engineering, students will be taught subjects like environmental protection, pollution control, water and waste management, green technology and sustainable development. After this course, students will have job opportunities in Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Municipal Corporation, Water and Sewerage Board, ETP / STP Plant, Environmental Consultancy Institute and Green Building Sector.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 08:43 PM
Kashmir Government Urges Lifting of Bans on Construction Materials

Kashmir Government Urges Lifting of Bans on Construction Materials

Srinagar: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chaudhary on Thursday said that immediate decisions should be taken on lifting of sand, stone quarries and loose materials in Kashmir to ensure uninterrupted supply of construction materials to the people. He was chairing a review meeting on restoration of traditional mining activities and stone mining at identified places in Kashmir. The meeting was attended by MLAs Justice (Retd) Hasnain Masoodi, Ahsan Ahmad Pardesi, Hilal Akbar Lone, Nizam-ud-din Bhat, Javed Hassan Baig and Mushtaq Ahmad Guru. Additional Chief Secretary Mines Department, Director Geology and Mining, Director Finance Mining, Joint Director and District Mineral Officer were also present. The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated the government's commitment to curb illegal mining activities completely. He also said that people should not face shortage of construction materials due to ban on illegal operations. He stressed on transparency in mining operations while framing comprehensive mining policy of Jammu and Kashmir for better utilization of mineral resources while protecting the environmental interests.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 08:42 PM
NGT's Strong Stance Leads to Stricter Penalties for Illegal Mining in India

NGT's Strong Stance Leads to Stricter Penalties for Illegal Mining in India

It is only after the strong stance of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that the mining department has further tightened the penal provisions for vehicles caught in the riverine area. The first and second arrests involve a minimum cash penalty ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 along with the cost of the mineral, royalty. On third violations, it is mandatory to impound the vehicle and hand it over to the police and keep the vehicle blacklisted for at least 30 days, the release of which can only be by order of the High Court. Mining in the Tawi River is completely prohibited as per the orders of the High Court. For this reason, the right to release any vehicles or machines which are sealed while carrying out illegal mining is reserved only with the High Court. Police or mining departments cannot directly release them by taking simple fines. Advertisements----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 08:36 PM
Hotel Holiday Inn in Pahalgam Ordered Closed for Environmental Violations

Hotel Holiday Inn in Pahalgam Ordered Closed for Environmental Violations

Anantnag: The Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee (PCC) has issued orders for immediate closure of Hotel Holiday Inn, Mewara area of Pahalgam for alleged violation of environmental norms. The committee has also directed to disconnect the electricity and water supply of the hotel. As per the order issued by the PCC, the hotel was being operated without valid environmental clearance and mandatory consent of the Pollution Control Committee. It is deemed to be in violation of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. The order states that several notices were earlier issued to the hotel management. A show-cause notice was issued on 16.09.2025 seeking response on the violation of environmental norms but no satisfactory reply was given within the stipulated time frame. The advertisement was recently inspected by the PCC officials and it was found that the hotel is still operating without valid permission and the owner of the hotel has also not been instructed to immediately stop the operation of pollution control system like water and grease oil for treatment of kitchen waste.
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Indian Express
Jun 18, 2026, 08:17 PM
Gujarat CM and Governor Plant Trees, Emphasize Environmental Protection

Gujarat CM and Governor Plant Trees, Emphasize Environmental Protection

SETTING ASIDE protocol, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Governor Acharya Devvrat had dinner on Thursday evening sitting on the floor of a thatched house, belonging to Jitendrabhai Chunilal Desai, a farmer residing in Panikhadak village of Navsari district. CM Patel and Governor Devvrat, who are on a two-day visit to the south Gujarat district, were accompanied by senior district officials. Inside the small residence, nestled amid lush green fields and winding roads, the duo enjoyed desi nagli-chokha roti, khichdi, curry and mixed vegetables served by members of the Desai family. District Collector Manish Gurwani, District Development Officer Kartik Jiwani, district police chief Rahul Patel and others were also present. CM Patel urged people to use resources wisely, considering the current situation. He said PM Modi has linked the environment protection campaign with sensitivity and called upon every citizen of the state to plant and grow a tree in the name of his mother. A total of 1,600 trees of 28 species including Neem, Peepal, Banyan, Bili, Cashew, Kadam, Sevan, Baheda, were planted in a total area of 0.75 hectares with the help of local villagers. The state Forest Department has set a target of planting 5.50 crore trees across the state under the ‘Ek Pad Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. While lauding the campaign, Devvrat called upon the villagers to plant more trees and nurture them. He emphasized that each small step taken by every citizen to save water and preserve the environment would prove a boon for future generations.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 08:12 PM
Haryana Government Undertakes Six Projects to Improve Drainage Systems

Haryana Government Undertakes Six Projects to Improve Drainage Systems

He said that under the first project, the RCC trough of Rohtak Link Drain has been constructed from RD 1100 to 1750 in the inhabited area of village Shimli. Under the second project, a 900 mm diameter NP-3 RCC underground pipeline has been laid to drain rain and flood water from the low-lying areas of village Ladhaut, which will carry the water to RD 8600L of Makdauli Link Drain. Under the Advertisement Project, a 900 mm and 600 mm diameter NP-3 RCC underground pipeline and pump house have been constructed in village Asan. This will ensure effective drainage of flood water from the catchment area of Asan Link Drain. A multi-storey workshop building has been constructed near the local Delhi bypass under the Advertisement Chauthai project. Under the fifth project, construction works related to flood protection will be carried out in Garhi-Sampla-Kiloi, Meham and Kalanaur. Under the sixth project, the RDC branch will be re-laid from RD 010 to RD 07.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 08:00 PM
Pleasant Weather in Jagadhri District, Temperature Rises to 37.5°C

Pleasant Weather in Jagadhri District, Temperature Rises to 37.5°C

Jagadhri: The weather in the district turned pleasant on Friday morning with dense black clouds hovering over the district. Later in the day, the sky cleared up and the temperature rose. While the meteorological department has predicted a normal temperature till Sunday. The meteorological department had predicted a cloudy sky on Thursday with light rain accompanied by thundershowers in some areas. However, there was no rain throughout the day. The temperature rose due to the bright sunshine and the maximum temperature was recorded at 37. 5 degrees Celsius, 1. 2 degrees Celsius higher than Wednesday. The minimum temperature was recorded at 26. 6 degrees Celsius. During the day, winds blew at a speed of 14 kilometres per hour, which gave relief to the people from the heat. But the humidity increased due to strong sun and moisture and people were troubled by the sticky heat. The weather remained dry in the morning due to the dense clouds, but as the day progressed, the sky became clear and sunny. However, the cloudy weather again gave relief to the people.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 07:40 PM
Sizzling Heat Expected Throughout January

Sizzling Heat Expected Throughout January

There were very light clouds in the morning of Thursday, but as soon as the sun came out, the clouds dispersed. The wind was very slow from the morning, due to which the effect of heat was felt more. People woke up because of the heat due to the wind blowing less in the afternoon. People continued to sweat even while sitting under the advertisement. The Meteorological Department has predicted that the weather will remain the same throughout the month of January. The weather is expected to be clear and the temperature is expected to increase. That is, the heat will be more in the coming days.
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Amar Ujala
Jun 18, 2026, 07:36 PM
District Hit by Rain and Heat Waves: Residents Advised to Stay Indoors

District Hit by Rain and Heat Waves: Residents Advised to Stay Indoors

On Wednesday evening, there was heavy rain in the district, sometimes with drizzle. In some areas, due to the cyclonic storm, 25 to 30 trees were felled. After this, the sun began to disturb the people since Thursday morning. From 9 am, the hot winds began to scorch the life. It was difficult to travel between 12 and 3 in Ad Dopahar. The faces became red from the heat. During the bike ride, it felt as if someone was throwing fire from the front. The district administration has issued an advisory and appealed to the people to get out of the house only when there is urgent work from 12 to 3. The possibility of heat stroke has increased. In such a situation, people need to be careful about their health. After traveling 10 kilometers during the journey in Ad Dopahar, people stop and go to the destination only after quenching their thirst. Dr. Ajit Chaturvedi, in-charge of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bejawan, said that the maximum temperature recorded on Thursday is 41 ° C, while the minimum temperature is 32 ° C.
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