January 17, 2026

AIADMK Chief Palaniswami Avoids Firm Stance on Old Pension Scheme Restoration

AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami says restoring the Old Pension Scheme depends on circumstances. He criticizes DMK for failing to fulfill pension promises. Tamil Nadu recently started a new pension plan mixing old and new schemes.

January 17, 2026

The Hindu Lit for Life Announces Key Session Changes for Saturday’s Event

The Hindu Lit for Life programme has updated its Saturday schedule with new speaker lineups and session swaps. Check revised timings and cancellations here.

January 17, 2026

India's Farm Power Subsidy Causes 100 Million Tonnes of Carbon Emissions Annually, Experts Warn

India’s free electricity for farm pumps causes 100 million tonnes of carbon emissions yearly and depletes groundwater. Scientists urge urgent policy changes to support millets and sustainable farming.

January 17, 2026

BJP-Shiv Sena Combo Nears BMC Win; Uddhav Thackeray Loses Control After 25 Years

In the 2026 BMC election, BJP-Shiv Sena coalition edges close to victory. Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray wins 64 seats but loses control. Eknath Shinde’s faction gets 27 seats, as Marathi vote consolidates behind Thackeray.

January 17, 2026

MHA to Meet Ladakh Leaders on Feb 4 Over Statehood and Arrests

The Ministry of Home Affairs will hold talks with Ladakh civil society leaders on February 4. The meeting will focus on constitutional safeguards, statehood demands, and release of detained activists including Sonam Wangchuk.

January 17, 2026

Ex-Mayor M. Anilkumar Warns UDF on Brahmapuram Waste Overspending and Overestimation

Former Mayor M. Anilkumar cautions Kochi's UDF-led council against waste overestimation and overspending at Brahmapuram. He highlights risks of corruption and defends past LDF efforts in waste treatment.

January 16, 2026

Nadan Pattu Folk Songs Shine Bright at Kerala School Arts Festival

Kerala's State School Arts Festival saw a huge crowd for Nadan Pattu, folk songs rich in heritage and tradition. Students performed with traditional instruments, stirring deep cultural pride.

January 16, 2026

India Blocks 242 Illegal Betting Sites, Total Hits 7,800 Under New Online Gaming Law

The Indian government blocked 242 illegal betting and gambling websites on January 16, 2026, taking the total blocked to 7,800 since the 2025 gaming ban. The fresh crackdown targets sites violating the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, which bans real money gaming across India.

January 16, 2026

Congress Slams UP Govt for Destroying Varanasi's Manikarnika Ghat Heritage

Congress accuses UP government of damaging Varanasi’s sacred Manikarnika Ghat during redevelopment. They demand an immediate stop and talks with religious leaders. Protests erupt over alleged damage to century-old idols.

January 16, 2026

Kerala Tourist Drowns, Another Missing in Frozen Sela Lake in Arunachal Pradesh

A 26-year-old tourist drowned and another went missing after ice cracked on frozen Sela Lake in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang district. Rescue efforts continue.