India's political landscape is ablaze with activity! From the ongoing debates surrounding the new farm bills and their impact on rural India, to the upcoming state elections shaping the national narrative, the stakes couldn't be higher. Key political figures are maneuvering strategically, with alliances shifting and power dynamics constantly in flux. The opposition's challenge to the ruling party is intensifying, sparking vigorous debates on crucial policy matters including economic reforms and social justice initiatives. Parliamentary proceedings are filled with heated exchanges, reflecting the deep divisions within the nation. This evolving political climate directly impacts the lives of every Indian citizen, influencing everything from economic opportunities to social welfare programs. Stay informed about the latest developments in Indian politics, from crucial legislative decisions to grassroots movements, by exploring Abtak.com for in-depth analysis and breaking news updates. Understanding the intricacies of our political system is crucial; stay engaged, stay informed, and stay ahead.
India's role in Afghanistan not positive: Tahir Hussain Andrabi. Pakistan on Friday announced that border crossings with Afghanistan would remain closed, citing the security situation, stressing that saving the life of an ordinary Pakistani is more important than the movement of goods or trade. Border crossings between the two countries have remained closed since October 11, following clashes earlier this month that killed dozens on both sides in the worst fighting since the Taliban's 2021 takeover of Kabul. In his maiden weekly press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi confirmed that the decision follows last week's security developments, which necessitated strict border control measures. It is noteworthy to mention here that the border closures between Pakistan and Afghanistan pushed up prices of essential goods in both nations, with tomatoes now costing five times more in Pakistan. "The Afghan border crossings will remain closed; the life of a common Pakistani is more valuable than trade or goods transport," the spokesperson said. Fresh fruit, vegetables, minerals, medicine, wheat, rice, sugar, meat and dairy products make up most of the $2.3 billion annual trade volume between the two countries. Around 5,000 containers of goods are stranded on both sides of the border, said a Pakistani official at the main Torkham border crossing in northwest Pakistan. Regarding the recent ceasefire talks held in Doha between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the spokesperson confirmed that a document had been agreed upon and signed. Andrabi said that it makes no difference if the Afghan Taliban regime considers it an agreement or not. On the issue of the Kunar River, Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to adhering to international laws. The border clashes were triggered after Islamabad demanded that Kabul control militants who attack Pakistan across their shared border, saying they operated from havens in Afghanistan. A ceasefire was agreed in talks hosted by Qatar and Turkey last weekend and is holding between the two sides, but the border trade remains closed. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul. Commenting on India-Afghanistan relations, the spokesperson said that India's reopening of its embassy in Afghanistan is an internal matter between the two countries. "We do not comment on the internal affairs of other states. However, India's role in Afghanistan has not been particularly positive," the spokesperson added. On Israel, the spokesperson stated that Tel Aviv continues to violate international laws. "We will keep raising this issue. Pakistan is closely monitoring Israeli violations and the events leading to them. The establishment of a Palestinian state remains the only roadmap we adhere to," the spokesperson said.
New Delhi, Jun 29: At least 81 Palestinians have been killed and more than 400 injured in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours, according to the Gaza-run health ministry, as the Israeli military continues its offensive in the territory, reports BBC. According to the BBC, the strikes included an attack near the Palestine Stadium in Gaza City, where tents sheltering displaced families had been set up. At least 11 people, including children, were killed in that strike. Additional casualties were reported in al-Mawasi and the Tuffah neighbourhoods, where entire families, ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], July 8 (ANI): The cost of home-cooked meals eased in June as compared to the same month last year, driven by a sharp correction in vegetable prices, according to the Crisil Intelligence report. In the monthly report titled 'Roti Rice Rate', the average cost of a vegetarian thali (Plate) declined by 8 per cent year-on-year (YoY), while the cost of a non-vegetarian thali was down nearly 6 per cent. The decline in vegetarian thali prices was primarily attributed to a significant drop in key vegetable prices, which had spiked the previous year due to adverse weather and crop d ...Read More >
Noting that the evolution of Quad has been a "notable development," External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has said the Indo-Pacific is experiencing "significant changes" including new convergences and partnerships. "In an era of collaborative endeavours, the Indo-Pacific will require practical solutions, nimble diplomacy, greater adjustment and more open conversations. The G7 can be one such partner," Mr. Jaishankar said as he attended the G7 FMM Outreach Session with Indo-Pacific partners in the Italian city of Fiuggi on Tuesday. G7 ministers throw support behind Israel-Hezbollah ceasefir ...Read More >
Fiuggi, November 27 (IANS): Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) countries called on Israel to comply with its obligations under international law at a meeting. The ministers said in a statement that they support a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah and the full implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, Xinhua news agency reported. The ministers expressed their concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. They called on the Israeli government to ease obstacles on humanitarian aid to civilians in areas rocked by conflicts. They said that "Israel mu ...Read More >
A ministerial conference kicked off on Monday in Cairo to garner regional and international support for the besieged Gaza and alleviate the sufferings of the Palestinian people. The meeting is being held under the auspices of the Egyptian President with the participation of 103 delegations of various countries, international organisations, and financial institutions, according to the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. Commissioner-General of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Philippe Lazzarini told the conference that "UNRWA has preserved the Palestinian ...Read More >
New Delhi: Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday met farmers in Punjab and reviewed crops and production. Addressing a gathering, Chouhan said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision is Viksit Bharat, and we are working tirelessly with that goal in mind. Our mission is to build a glorious, prosperous and powerful India. Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy. In the fourth quarter of last financial year, the country achieved a growth rate of 7.5 per cent, with agriculture contributing to 5.4 per cent of it. Agriculture still accounts f ...Read More >
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Quad grouping of the United States, India, Japan and Australia called on Tuesday for the perpetrators of an Islamist militant attack that killed 26 in India-administered Kashmir to be brought to justice without delay. The April 22 attack sparked heavy fighting between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan in the latest escalation of a decades-old rivalry as India blamed it on Pakistan, which denied responsibility while calling for a neutral investigation. The U.S. State Dep ...Read More >
Kolkata, July 5 (SocialNews.XYZ) The West Bengal unit of BJP, under the leadership of its new State party President Samik Bhattacharya is making all efforts to ensure a political rally in the state, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing it, before Trinamool Congress's annual Martyrs' day rally in Kolkata on July 21. An insider from the state committee of BJP said that the week before July 21, the Prime Minister is scheduled to go for an election campaign in Bihar where the Assembly polls are scheduled later this year. "We are trying hard so that the Prime Minister can spare some time ...Read More >
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], July 5 (ANI): Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers' Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan attended the sixth convocation ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar, and conferred degrees upon the graduates. On the second day of his visit to Jammu & Kashmir on Friday, Shivraj Singh said, 'I've been in Srinagar since yesterday. The cool breeze, the fragrance of the soil, the natural beauty, and the warmth of the people have truly touched my heart. Jammu & Kashmir is the crown jewel of ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], July 10 (ANI): Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abdullah Abu Shawesh, said that the conflict between Israel and Gaza is not a conflict and termed it Israel's 'brutal aggression', which he said has continued for 642 days. He expressed hope that Israel's brutal aggression and massacre would come to an end 'very soon.' Speaking to ANI, Shawesh said that approximately 10,000 civilians have lost their lives due to the conflict in Gaza, which has lasted for the past 642 days. When asked about the Israel-Gaza conflict, he said, 'I find all the time myself having no other choice e ...Read More >
MUMBAI: India is likely to produce a record 117.5 million tonnes of wheat in the year ending June 2025, the farm ministry said, above its March forecast of 115.4 million tonnes, as higher prices prompted farmers to expand the area planted with high-yielding seed varieties. India, the world's biggest wheat producer after China, produced 113.3 million tonnes of wheat in 2024, the farm ministry said in a statement issued late on Wednesday. However, a leading industry body said the crop was nearly 6.25% lower than the government's estimate. The country's rice production in 2025 is also set to c ...Read More >
Hisar, Jun 5 (PTI) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini Thursday announced the establishment of natural and organic mandis in Gurugram and Hisar to promote natural farming on a large scale in the state. The Gurugram mandi will cater to produce such as wheat, paddy and pulses, while the Hisar mandi will focus on fruits and vegetables grown through natural and organic methods. Also Read | Delhi: High-Level US Team Arrives for Talks on Bilateral Trade Pact With India. In addition, a committee will be formed under the Haryana Kisan Kalyan Pradhikaran to determine fair pricing for produce gr ...Read More >
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar suggests empowering rural youth to drive change in India's underutilized agricultural sector during his visit to Dr YS Parmar University. He advocates for direct subsidies to farmers, emphasizing the need for bridging the gap between production and market access and the use of AI for rural transformation. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has called for empowering rural youth to catalyze significant transformation in India's largely untapped agricultural sector. Dur ...Read More >
Ahmedabad: From sabzis to sambhar, the cost of cooking a regular Indian meal for an average family is rising sharply as vegetable prices hit new highs, with everyday greens now as pricey or pricier than exotics. Going by the current prices, a humble bhindi or guvar sabzi may cost more than a takeaway meal. Retail prices of vegetables like okra, ivy gourd (tindora), bottle gourd, and tomatoes surged well beyond the Rs 100/kg mark in Ahmedabad markets, turning daily nutrition into a household budgetary challenge.The steepest spike is seen in ivy gourd (tindora), now priced at Rs 216 a kilogram, ...Read More >
Hisar, Jun 5 (PTI) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini Thursday announced the establishment of natural and organic mandis in Gurugram and Hisar to promote natural farming on a large scale in the state. The Gurugram mandi will cater to produce such as wheat, paddy and pulses, while the Hisar mandi will focus on fruits and vegetables grown through natural and organic methods. In addition, a committee will be formed under the Haryana Kisan Kalyan Pradhikaran to determine fair pricing for produce grown using natural and organic farming practices. The Chief Minister made these announcements ...Read More >
Patiala: Union minister for agriculture and farmers' welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited Rajpura in Patiala district on Thursday as part of an ongoing initiative, Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA), which is aimed at transforming Indian agriculture through direct farmer engagement and sustainable practices.At a 'Kisan Chaupal' in Gandia Kheri village, Chouhan emphasised on govt's commitment to formulating agricultural policies based on direct interactions with farmers rather than relying solely on bureaucratic inputs. " If scientists go to the ground, they'll know about the problem of farm ...Read More >
Wheat is the unsung hero of African food, the secret sauce (or rather, secret grain) behind some of your favorite dishes. From the cloud-like deliciousness of Ethiopian injera to the satisfying Moroccan couscous, wheat is Africa's culinary backbone. This article features five mouthwatering dishes that highlight the versatility and tastiness of African wheat-based cuisine. Injera is a sourdough-risen flatbread with a slightly spongy texture, made from fermented teff flour. In Ethiopia and Eritrea, it serves not only as sustenance but also as a utensil for eating. The blend of teff flour and wa ...Read More >
CHENNAI: Vegetable prices at the Koyambedu Wholesale Market in Chennai recorded moderate fluctuations on June 7 (Saturday), with several items registering notable increases. According to traders, the price of carrots and bitter gourd rose by Rs 20. Carrots, which were priced at Rs 30 per kg on June 1, are now selling at Rs 50. Bitter gourd, earlier sold at Rs 25, is currently priced at Rs 40. Brinjal also recorded a sharp rise of Rs 15 per kg, increasing from Rs 25 to Rs 40. Additionally, the prices of small onions (shallots), Ooty beetroot, and chow chow increased by Rs 10. Small onions we ...Read More >
New Delhi: The clock is ticking. Only a few days left before the July 9 deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump. Hopes of a limited trade deal between India and the United States still linger. But the mood around the negotiating table feels anything but settled. The White House has publicly hinted that the deal is all but done. In New Delhi, officials have echoed a similar sentiment, calling the potential agreement "big, good and beautiful". Trump claimed it would open Indian markets to American goods. But behind closed doors, things remain tangled in tough back-and-forth. Key concerns h ...Read More >
Gandhinagar: In households in Gujarat's cities, cereals may take up less space in the grocery bill, but they still dominate the dinner plate. A new Union govt report shows that cereals, while accounting for just 3.8% of household spending, supply 35% of total calorie intake in cities. In villages, their role is even more dominant, making up 43% of calorie consumption while accounting for 4.5% of total spending.Cereals also account for a major portion of protein intake for people in Gujarat.These insights come from the Centre's latest "Nutritional Intake in India" report, which tracks food patt ...Read More >
CHENNAI: The price of vegetables at Chennai's Koyambedu wholesale market remained unchanged on July 11 (Friday). According to the traders, snake gourd, which was sold at Rs 20 per kg last week, is now being sold at Rs 30 per kg after a Rs 10 increase. Lemons have been consistently sold at Rs 50 per kg since June, with no price changes. Garlic is priced at Rs 150 per kg, while green peas are being sold at Rs 180 per kg. Similarly, beans are sold at Rs 80 per kg. Drumsticks are priced at Rs 50 per kg, and yam is sold at Rs 60 per kg. Brinjal, bitter gourd, and potatoes are all being sold at R ...Read More >
Gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections rose 7.5 per cent year-on-year to Rs 1.96 lakh crore in July (for sales in June), data released by the government on Friday showed. Even though the pace of growth in gross GST collections picked up to 7.5 per cent in July from 6.2 per cent, this is the second consecutive month wherein the growth rate has been in single digits and much lower after posting double-digit growth in the first two months of the ongoing financial year. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW VIDEO Net GST collections, after accounting for refunds, took a hit by growing by just 1.7 per ...Read More >
CHANDIGARH: Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that as the Indus Waters Treaty has been put in abeyance, efforts will be made to ensure that more water reaches farmers in Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Rajasthan. He said that 80 per cent of water from the Indus river system was flowing into Pakistan. "Giving 80 per cent water to Pakistan at that time was not justified. Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan require water and that water is ours. Now we will utilize that water for our farmers," said Chouhan. Chouh ...Read More >
New Delhi, Jul 7: The latest round of indirect ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas concluded in Doha without any breakthrough, according to the BBC, quoting Palestinian sources familiar with the process. The session, which lasted over three hours, was held in two separate venues, with Qatari and Egyptian mediators facilitating the exchange of messages. Despite the diplomatic efforts, no significant headway was made. Talks are expected to resume late Monday, with mediators planning further separate meetings in an attempt to bridge persistent gaps. Two Palestinian officials told Reu ...Read More >
New Delhi, Jul 13: At least ten people, including six children, were killed in an Israeli air strike while they were waiting to collect water in central Gaza on Sunday, the BBC reported, quoting emergency service officials. The victims had gathered with jerry cans near a water tanker in the heart of al-Nuseirat refugee camp when the strike occurred. According to eyewitnesses cited by the BBC, an Israeli drone fired a missile at the crowd. "It hit people waiting for water," said one resident, describing scenes of panic and bloodied children. Videos shared online show chaotic aftermaths, with l ...Read More >
Mandi (Himachal Pradesh) [India], July 5 (ANI): Amid widespread destruction and loss of lives caused by rain-induced flash floods across Himachal Pradesh, locals from Mandi rushed in to distribute ration kits including rice and wheat to affected families in the Mandi district. Chail Chowk Vyapar Mandal President Raj Kumar Thakur told ANI, 'All the traders of the Chail Chowk Vyapar Mandal decided to help those who have lost their homes in the tragedy or have lost road connectivity. We have distributed ration kits to 110 families, which included 10 kg of rice, 10 kg of wheat, oil, and other foo ...Read More >
New Delhi, July 9 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emplaned for Namibia -- the final stop of his five-nation visit -- after wrapping up his State Visit to Brasilia where he met Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and also attended the 17th BRICS Summit in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. Taking to X, the PMO wrote: "PM @narendramodi has boarded for Namibia, the final destination of his tour" Also, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randir Jaiswal wrote on X: "PM @narendramodi concludes a productive visit to Brazil and emplanes for Namibia. A memorable visit t ...Read More >
A young woman named Oleti Pushpa (22) was killed by her live-in partner Sheikh Shamma (22) in the Ambedkar Konaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, reported India Today. She was living with Sheikh for the past 6 months after she separated from her spouse. The incident took place in Siddhartha Nagar, B Savaram village of Rajolu mandal on 16th July. Shamma reportedly accused Pushpa of having affairs with other men. He forced her to engage in prostitution and frequently instigated fights with her when intoxicated. As per police, Shamma was addicted to ganja. On the fateful night, he against pressuri ...Read More >
Dimapur, Jul 18 (PTI) Two persons have died of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in Nagaland, a health department official said on Friday. Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur, Dr Yartenla Jamir, said that of the seven JE cases detected in Dimapur, Chumoukedima, and Niuland districts, two persons have died so far. She expressed concern over the rise in Japanese encephalitis (JE) cases in the three districts, especially during the monsoon season, which increases the risk of transmission. The Health department has urged district administrations to issue a public advisory on JE prevention measures and to i ...Read More >
CHENNAI: Following widespread rain recently, the Koyambedu wholesale market has been receiving less vegetables and as a result the prices have surged. As many as 460 truck loads of perishable commodities are supplied from the neighbouring states to Chennai, and it is expected to increase from weekends. Cyclone Fengal brought extremely heavy rain in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the last few days, which has disrupted the vegetable supply to the city. The wholesale market has been receiving around 460 vegetable vehicles against the usual arrival of 500 truck loads every day. "F ...Read More >