Nation

New Delhi: A recent survey has revealed a growing spam problem on WhatsApp, with 96% of users reporting that they receive unwanted messages on a daily basis. The survey, conducted by LocalCircles, included responses from 42,000 users across 324 districts in India. Only 4% of respondents said they did not receive any spam messages. About 54% reported receiving 1–3 spam or promotional messages daily, 30% received 4–7 messages, and 11% admitted to receiving eight or more messages every day. The survey highlighted that a significant number of these messages are sent from WhatsApp Business accounts. The majority, 71%, are related to financial services and real estate, while 46% are linked to healthcare and pathology services, 44% to job or earning opportunities, 24% to spas, RO services, ...

New Delhi: Amid uproar in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, the “Vote of Thanks” on the President’s Address was passed by voice vote. Traditionally, the Prime Minister responds to the discussion on this motion, but due to the disruptions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was unable to do so this time. The proceedings were marked by repeated interruptions from opposition members. After an initial adjournment, the session resumed at 12 PM, with Speaker Om Birla presenting the necessary documents and instructing protesting MPs near the Chair not to display banners. The motion, introduced by BJP MP Sarbananda Sonowal and supported by BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, formally expresses gratitude for the President’s address delivered by President Droupadi Murmu on 28 January at the joint sitting of both Houses of ...

New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha witnessed a fiery confrontation between the ruling and opposition parties on Thursday, shortly after proceedings began. Union Minister J.P. Nadda urged members not to disrupt the House and referred to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saying, “Do not make an innocent child a captive.” Nadda emphasized that discussions on Lok Sabha proceedings cannot take place in the Rajya Sabha. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge quickly retaliated, asserting, “Your party has been held captive by Modi ji; you cannot speak without his opinion. Do not lecture us about our party.” Kharge further argued that Parliament comprises both Houses and that the opposition in the Lok Sabha was denied the opportunity to speak on national interests, questioning how the House could be conduct...

New Delhi: Congress leader and former Union Minister Shashi Tharoor stumbled and fell on the steps of the Parliament today. The incident occurred while Tharoor was descending the staircase, and he was immediately assisted by Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav. Congress MP Imran Masood, who was nearby, also rushed to help. Following the incident, Tharoor shared a video on social media explaining what happened. In his post, he wrote: "While descending the Parliament steps, I missed one step and stumbled. I am in some pain, but I don’t think anything is broken — just a sprained ankle and minor injuries to a few fingers. I hope to recover in a few days. Between 4 PM and 7:30 PM, I held several meetings in my home office, keeping my leg elevated on a stool, including with two ambassador...

New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has clarified that five indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A jets are fully ready and discussions with the Indian Air Force (IAF) are ongoing to ensure timely delivery. The announcement comes amid reports suggesting potential delays in the handover, possibly pushing the inclusion of these jets in the Air Force fleet to May 2026. HAL Statement on LCA Mk1A:HAL confirmed that the five aircraft meet all major specifications outlined in the contract. “HAL is in active discussion with the IAF to ensure early delivery,” the company stated. The statement also noted that five engines supplied by General Electric (GE) have already been received, and the supply outlook remains positive, aligning with HAL’s delivery schedule. HAL reaffirmed its ...

New Delhi: A political storm has erupted following controversial remarks by M.R.K. Panneerselvam, the Agriculture Minister of Tamil Nadu and a senior DMK leader, about North Indians. The BJP has sharply criticized the DMK as well as other parties in the opposition coalition for their silence on the issue. Add Post BJP national spokesperson Shahzad Poonawala took to social media to accuse the opposition of harboring hatred, saying, “They have the Constitution on their tongue but a shop of hatred in their hearts.” Poonawala further alleged that DMK leaders have repeatedly made derogatory statements about North Indians, particularly North Indian women, while Congress, SP leader Akhilesh Yadav, and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav remain silent. Poonawala described this as “not a coincidence...

Khatu Shyam, Rajasthan: Renowned storyteller Jaya Kishori has once again proven that true style doesn’t need constant change. Known for her simple yet elegant appearance, she recently visited Khatu Shyam Temple, wearing a familiar outfit that highlighted her charm without any extravagance. Even in an old coat, she captivated devotees with her warmth and grace. A Signature Style That InspiresOver the years, Jaya Kishori has created a distinct identity for herself. Wherever she goes, her presence brings joy to people. During her visit to the temple, she kept her usual simple look, paired with a gentle smile while offering prayers. What stood out the most was her ability to make an old coat look stunning, proving that elegance doesn’t require new or flashy clothing. Since she began narr...

New Delhi: India’s ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, which aims to develop fifth-generation fighter jets, is now set to be led by private companies. Three private sector firms—Tata Advanced Systems Limited, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), and Bharat Forge—have been shortlisted for the project. These companies are required to submit detailed Requests for Proposal (RFPs) within the next three months, after which the final winner will be selected to execute this strategic program. The inclusion of AMCA in the Indian Air Force’s fleet is expected to strengthen national defense capabilities and serve as a deterrent to potential adversaries such as China and Pakistan. AMCA Program: 7 Companies Competing, 3 ShortlistedInitially, seven public and private sector compani...

New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has intensified her political attack on Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, signaling support for moves to remove him from office over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. While Banerjee has acknowledged that the opposition lacks the numbers in Parliament, she says the effort is aimed at sending a political message. Speaking after a meeting with Election Commission officials, Banerjee indicated she would support any move to initiate proceedings against the CEC, even if success is unlikely. Her remarks echo calls from sections of the opposition demanding accountability from the poll body. Constitutional process for removing a CEC The removal of a Chief Election Commissioner is governed by Article 32...

New Delhi: India’s first cooperative-based ride-hailing platform, Bharat Taxi, will be formally launched on Wednesday, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurating the service in the capital. The initiative aims to provide a driver-owned alternative to private app-based taxi aggregators, promising fair pricing for passengers and higher earnings for drivers. Ahead of the launch, Shah said driver-partners — referred to as Sarathis — would not only earn better profits through the platform but would also enjoy ownership and dignity as stakeholders. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “prosperity through cooperation,” according to the Ministry of Cooperation. The ministry described Bharat Taxi as a transformative step in the mobility sector, placing driv...