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Ahead of Messi’s December 13 Visit, Hyderabad Conducts Review Meeting To Finalise Arrangements

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Dhruv
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Messi
Messi

Authorities in Hyderabad met on Tuesday to review and finalise the preparations for Lionel Messi’s much awaited visit to the city on December 13 as part of the GOAT India Tour 2025. The global football icon is set to stop in four major Indian cities during his tour, allowing supporters in Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad to see him up close, according to reports from ANI.

Messi is expected to reach Hyderabad on the evening of December 13, after attending a major celebratory event in Kolkata earlier in the day. His visit has created a wave of excitement among fans in South India, who are looking forward to welcoming the Argentine superstar.

Those present at the planning meeting included Parvathi Reddy, who serves as Chief Patron and Adviser of the Hyderabad segment of the GOAT Tour, along with Satadru Dutta, the Chief Promoter for India. International tour adviser Christopher Flannery, Messi’s personal manager Pablo Negre, and Coordination Committee member Dr Rohin Reddy also participated in the discussions.

The confirmation of Hyderabad as one of the host cities has added to the nationwide buzz surrounding the tour. With this addition, the schedule now includes Kolkata and Hyderabad on December 13, Mumbai on December 14, and Delhi on December 15, covering the eastern, southern, western and northern regions of the country.

Earlier, Telangana chief minister Revanth Reddy formally launched the official poster for the Hyderabad event, signalling the city’s full participation in the upcoming GOAT India Tour festivities.

Parliament Told by Centre That ‘Snooping’ via Sanchar Saathi App Is ‘Not Possible’

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Dhruv
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Jyotiraditya Scindia
Jyotiraditya Scindia

During a discussion in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, Union communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia firmly dismissed allegations that the Sanchar Saathi mobile application could be used for surveillance. He stressed that the purpose of the app is to safeguard citizens, not to intrude on their privacy. According to him, there is no possibility of the application being misused for snooping, and the government intends only to empower users to protect themselves from fraud.

His clarification came at a time when the Department of Telecommunications has issued an order requiring mobile manufacturers to include the Sanchar Saathi app on all new devices sold in India. The directive, issued on November 28, also instructs companies to make the app visible when a phone is first set up and to ensure that its features remain accessible to users. The same rule applies to existing devices, which are expected to receive the app through software updates.

Despite concerns raised in public debates and on social media, Scindia reiterated that the presence of the app is not compulsory for citizens. Speaking on Tuesday, he emphasised that anyone who does not wish to use the app is free to remove it from their phone. Reports suggesting that the app would be locked or impossible to delete were incorrect, he said, adding that the system is voluntary and meant to help people stay alert against identity theft, fraudulent calls, and other digital threats.

Sanchar Saathi was first introduced as a government portal in May 2023, offering services such as checking the number of mobile connections linked to a person’s identity documents, reporting suspicious numbers, and locating lost or stolen devices. The mobile version of the platform was launched earlier this year to boost the country’s fight against cybercrime.

Check-In Glitch Causes Flight Delays, Air India Confirms ‘Third-Party System’ Now Fully Restored

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Dhruv
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Air India
Air India

The airline announced on X that its third party system is now fully functional again, and that check in at every airport has returned to normal. All scheduled flights are operating as planned, and the carrier thanked passengers for their patience during the interruption.

This update followed an earlier message in which the airline explained that the technical issue had caused delays for several carriers, including Air India. It also noted that airport staff were working continuously to ensure passengers could check in without difficulty. Even as the system was gradually coming back online, the carrier warned that a few flights might still be delayed until everything stabilised completely.

Air India advised travellers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport and to plan to arrive earlier than usual.

A similar disruption had occurred the previous month in Delhi, where more than four hundred domestic and international flights were delayed because of a malfunction in the Automatic Message Switching System at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. Major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet were affected, leading to long queues and slower processing.

The issue was traced to the IP based AMSS system, prompting a review meeting led by the Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, along with senior officials from the Airports Authority of India. Directions were issued to resolve the problem at the earliest. During the outage, air traffic controllers had to manually prepare flight plans using the information available to them, a process that significantly increased delays.

Strict Road Quality Standards Under Mann Govt: Mandatory 5-Year Maintenance and Panchayat Satisfaction, Contractors Risk Blacklisting

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Dhruv
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Mann

Punjab has introduced a new era of accountability in road development, driven by the determination of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to upgrade the state’s infrastructure. A major road reform initiative known as the CM Flying Squad began its work in October 2025. Although it forms part of a much larger plan worth more than ₹16,000 crore for building nearly forty five thousand kilometres of roads, its real strength lies in strict monitoring and uncompromising standards.

Instead of waiting for complaints to surface, the state has created a system where road projects are constantly monitored. Senior officials from the Punjab Mandi Board and Public Works Department move from district to district without prior notice to inspect road construction. Their inspections are especially focused on the huge rural link road project, which alone accounts for over ₹3,400 crore. Whenever a road has failed to meet the required quality, the government has not hesitated to terminate contracts on the spot.

What sets this approach apart is the responsibility placed directly on contractors. Any agency working on a road must maintain it for five years after completion. If a road deteriorates or repairs are ignored, the contractor faces immediate blacklisting. This rule has forced companies to think beyond quick construction and focus on long-term durability.

Local governance also plays a crucial role in Punjab’s model. A contractor can only receive payment once the village Panchayat approves the work. This ensures that the people using the road every day have the final say in judging its quality. This system not only strengthens grassroots democracy but also prevents the misuse of public money.

Early inspections in seven districts show noticeable improvements. With stricter supervision, the quality of rural roads has begun to rise and everyday travel for farmers and small traders has become far smoother. Better roads are opening doors to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, and the economic impact is already becoming visible across villages.

Experts from other states have taken note of Punjab’s approach. Regions such as Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Assam, Uttarakhand, and Andhra Pradesh often face trouble because contractors neglect maintenance or work is repeatedly delayed. Punjab has shown that when maintenance obligations are built into the original contract and monitored consistently, road networks can remain strong for many years.

The initiative reflects the state government’s belief that development is incomplete unless every village benefits from safe and reliable connectivity. The CM Flying Squad is more than an enforcement team; it represents a long term vision for stable infrastructure and transparent governance. Through this model, Punjab is demonstrating that road building is not just about laying asphalt but about ensuring that public funds genuinely improve people’s lives.

By enforcing responsibility, increasing transparency, and involving local communities, the Punjab government has set higher standards for road development. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s efforts have positioned Punjab as a state that does not compromise on infrastructure quality and continues to push forward with a clear vision for progress.

Priya Kapur Sought Control of Sunjay Kapur’s Assets Rather Than Mourning, His Mother Tells Delhi HC

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Dhruv
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sunjay kapur

Priya Sachdev Kapur, the widow of businessman Sunjay Kapur, has become embroiled in a serious legal battle over his vast estate. The dispute intensified after Sunjay’s children from his previous marriage to actor Karisma Kapoor approached the Delhi High Court, accusing Priya of fabricating his will. Matters escalated further on Monday when Sunjay’s mother told the court that instead of mourning her husband’s passing, Priya immediately focused on gaining control over his property and financial assets.

According to the latest information shared by PTI, the Delhi High Court heard detailed allegations from Rani S Kapur. She said she had never been informed about the existence of any such will signed by her son. Her statements were recorded before Justice Jyoti Singh during the hearing of the suit filed on behalf of Karisma Kapoor’s children. The court has now scheduled the next round of arguments for December 3.

Senior advocate Vaibhav Gaggar, representing Rani, added that Sunjay and Priya’s marriage had been troubled since May 2023, with frequent fights and growing discord. He argued that it was extremely unlikely that Sunjay would have made Priya the sole inheritor of his personal estate. The plea emphasised that Sunjay had always maintained a close and affectionate relationship with all his children, his mother and other members of the Kapur family. Gaggar also claimed that in the days following Sunjay’s death, Priya focused her attention entirely on taking possession of his wealth and that she allegedly hid substantial assets belonging to him.

Sunjay Kapur served as the chairman of Sona Comstar, a prominent auto components manufacturer. He passed away in June in London while participating in a polo match. His first marriage to Karisma Kapoor lasted from 2003 to 2016 and the couple had two children. In 2017, Sunjay married Priya Sachdev, with whom he lived until his death.

Khaleda Zia’s Health Worries PM Modi, Says India Will Extend ‘All Possible Support’

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Dhruv
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PM Modi khaleda zia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday conveyed his serious concern regarding the health of former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia. He also affirmed that India is prepared to provide any help required during this difficult time.

Sharing his message on X, the prime minister wrote that he was deeply saddened to hear about Zia’s deteriorating condition and acknowledged her long contribution to Bangladesh’s public and political life. He added that India’s prayers are with her and that the country is willing to offer every form of assistance possible for her recovery.

Khaleda Zia, who leads the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and is eighty years old, was admitted to a private hospital on November 23 after developing a chest infection that affected both her lungs and her heart. As her health continued to worsen, she was moved to the coronary care unit four days later.

Local media quoted BNP vice-chairman Advocate Ahmed Aazam Khan saying that Zia’s condition had become extremely serious and that she had been placed on ventilator support. Standing outside Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, he said that the situation had become so critical that there was little left to do except to seek prayers from people across the country.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir also stated that Zia remained in a highly fragile condition. He added that doctors from Bangladesh as well as abroad were working together to stabilise her health. According to him, she is battling several long-standing issues including liver and kidney ailments, arthritis, diabetes and other complications.

Earlier this year, Zia returned to Bangladesh after spending four months in London for advanced medical care. Her elder son, Tarique Rahman, who is the acting chairman of the BNP, has been residing in London since 2008. Her younger son, Arafat Rahman, passed away earlier this year after suffering a cardiac arrest.

On Sunday, Tarique wrote on Facebook that he may not be able to return to Bangladesh immediately despite his mother’s rapidly worsening condition. His brief message saying that his return was “not entirely” in his hands triggered widespread speculation about possible political or legal barriers preventing him from travelling home.

‘Sanchar Saathi’ App To Be Pre-Installed on Phones as Govt Issues New Security Directive

By
Dhruv
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Sanchar Saathi

The Department of Telecommunications has directed all original equipment manufacturers and mobile importers to ensure that the Sanchar Saathi application comes pre-installed on every new handset that will be sold in India. This requirement applies to both devices made within the country and those brought in from abroad.

The application must appear immediately when a user switches on the phone for the first time, and its core features cannot be turned off. Companies such as Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo have been given a period of 90 days to meet this new mandate.

A senior official from the department clarified that rumors claiming the app cannot be removed from the device are completely false. The official stressed that the misinformation is being intentionally spread and has no factual basis.

Sanchar Saathi, launched in May 2023, provides several public safety services. Users can report and block lost or stolen phones, identify malicious web links, check how many mobile numbers are registered under their name, and verify trusted contact details of banks and financial institutions.

Officials believe that making the app available by default will simplify and speed up fraud reporting. At present, users often lose precious time visiting the website to file complaints or submit information about a stolen device.

When questioned about how someone would file a report if their phone was missing, the official explained that the system is advanced enough to identify a device without requiring the user to remember the IMEI number. The aim, they said, is to avoid placing any unnecessary burden on citizens.

The app will also allow people to verify whether a device is genuine, review active mobile connections under their name, and report suspicious calls or messages. Unlike the website, the mobile application will not require OTP verification on the device to function, which is expected to save crucial time in emergency situations.

The department noted that cyber fraud has caused financial losses of nearly ₹35,000 crore in the past three to four years. Officials added that they expect full cooperation from smartphone manufacturers in implementing this requirement.

Global Research Opportunities Expanded as Mann Govt Provides Free Travel and Accommodation for Young Scientists and Teachers

By
Dhruv
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0
Punjab
Punjab

Punjab’s scientific community has received a major boost as the state government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, introduced a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young researchers. The newly launched “Young Scientists Travel Assistance Scheme” is being hailed as a landmark move that places Punjab’s emerging scientific talent on the global map.

Instead of allowing financial barriers to hinder progress, the government has chosen to actively support the next generation of innovators. This program, operated through the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology (PSCST) as part of the STEM Outreach Program, focuses on a problem long faced in academic circles: many gifted researchers lack the resources to attend leading global conferences and present their work among international peers.

The scheme prioritizes scientists, technologists, and educators below the age of 45 working in Punjab’s universities, colleges, and research institutes. Only applicants with at least two research publications in recognized peer-reviewed journals such as Scopus, SCI, or Web of Science are eligible. By setting these criteria, the government ensures that support reaches those actively contributing to scientific advancement.

Through this initiative, selected applicants will receive up to ₹15,000 as travel assistance, covering half of their airfare or maintenance allowance, along with the registration fees required to participate in major national and international conferences, workshops, short-term training programs, seminars, and other academic gatherings. This exposure is expected to open doors for collaborations, provide access to modern research trends, and align Punjab’s scientific research with global standards and the state’s own developmental priorities.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has emphasized that this scheme symbolizes Punjab’s belief in the capabilities of its youth. He noted that scientific progress flourishes when young minds are encouraged to explore and participate in discussions that shape the future of technology and research worldwide. According to him, this assistance is not merely financial; it is an investment in the dreams and ambitions of young scholars who aspire to contribute meaningfully to society.

The initiative also reflects a broader shift in the governance of Punjab. Development is no longer restricted to constructing buildings or launching infrastructure projects. Instead, the focus has expanded to strengthening human capital and safeguarding the aspirations of younger generations. Unlike the past, when many well-intentioned schemes never moved beyond paperwork, visible change is now taking place in the state.

By introducing this program, the Punjab government has sent a clear message: talented youth will receive the support they need to grow. The scheme promises to nurture innovation, promote academic excellence, and enable Punjab’s researchers to compete globally with confidence. Citizens across the state are increasingly recognizing that promises are being translated into action, and that opportunities for progress are being created in real time.

Those interested in applying or learning more about the initiative can visit the official website of the Punjab State Council for Science and Technology at www.pscst.punjab.gov.in

BCCI Denies ‘Approaching’ Virat Kohli About Test Cricket Return – Here’s What Official Said

By
Alina Khan
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0
BCCI Denies 'Approaching' Virat Kohli About Test Cricket Return - Here's What Official Said
BCCI Denies 'Approaching' Virat Kohli About Test Cricket Return - Here's What Official Said

Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary Devajit Saikia has categorically dismissed widespread media reports suggesting the cricket board approached Virat Kohli about reversing his Test retirement decision.

Speculation intensified following India’s second home series loss within two years, a development many cricket observers consider damaging to India’s previously dominant home Test record. Media reports claimed the BCCI intended to request Virat Kohli reconsider his retirement from red-ball cricket amid India’s recent struggles.

BCCI Official Denial

Saikia clarified that no communication occurred with Virat Kohli regarding a Test return. “What’s being said about Virat Kohli is just a rumour. There has been no conversation with Kohli about this. Do not give weight to rumours. Nothing of that sort has happened,” the BCCI secretary told media on Sunday, November 30.

He emphasized that the board has not initiated any discussions on the matter, directly contradicting circulating reports about potential outreach to the former Test captain.

Pietersen’s Perspective

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen weighed in on social media, arguing that if senior players like Kohli and Rohit Sharma showed interest in Test returns, the board should seriously consider bringing them back.

“I don’t always believe what I read in the media or on social media. But, if it’s half true that both Virat and Rohit are considering playing Test cricket again, then it needs to be taken very very seriously. The survival of Test cricket is a hot topic of conversation and if the biggest stars in the game are wanting to play it again, they must play!” Pietersen wrote on X.

Current Status

Virat Kohli currently participates in only one international cricket format. The batsman recently returned to international cricket in ODIs against South Africa, performing impressively in Ranchi where he scored his 52nd ODI century. He formed a century-plus partnership with Rohit Sharma, contributing to India’s substantial first-match total.

The speculation reflects broader concerns about India’s Test cricket form and the potential role veteran players might play in stabilizing the team’s red-ball fortunes. However, official BCCI statements suggest no active efforts to recruit retired Test players currently exist.

Winter Session of Parliament to Open Today with 14 Bills, Opposition Flags Concerns

By
Alina Khan
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0
Winter Session
Winter Session

Winter Session: The central government convened an all-party meeting Sunday ahead of Parliament’s Winter Session, which begins Monday and runs through December 19 for 15 sittings—one of the shortest winter sessions in recent years compared to the usual 20 sittings.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju urged constructive debate, stating: “Since it’s the winter season, we hope everyone works with a cool head and avoids heated exchanges. Debate is part of Parliament and I hope there will be no disturbances. Working with a calm mindset will benefit the nation and ensure the session runs smoothly.”

Opposition’s Concerns

Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi accused the government of deliberately curtailing parliamentary proceedings. “The winter session is only 19 days long, of which discussions can take place only for 15 days. This will likely be the shortest winter session ever. Therefore, it seems the government itself wants to derail Parliament,” he stated.

The opposition flagged multiple issues for discussion including electoral roll revisions, the recent Delhi blast, air pollution, economic security, and foreign policy matters. “The blast in Delhi is, in some ways, a testimony to the failures of our legal and home affairs departments,” Gogoi said, adding that security of voter lists and election integrity should be discussed.

Legislative Agenda in Winter Session

The government plans to introduce 14 bills, headlined by the Atomic Energy Bill, 2025, which seeks to regulate atomic energy use while enabling private sector participation in nuclear operations.

The Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025, aims to establish a central commission promoting university autonomy, transparent accreditation mechanisms, and stronger regulatory oversight for academic standards.

Other significant legislation includes the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025; Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2025; Securities Markets Code Bill, 2025, consolidating three existing acts into unified market code; Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025; and Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2025, proposing revisions following recent Supreme Court observations.

Additional bills cover corporate laws, national highways, central excise, and a Health Security & National Security Cess.

The government recently withdrew plans to empower the President to directly issue Chandigarh regulations after cross-party objections, demonstrating the political significance of coordination forums.

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