News Highlights: Nambi Narayanan reveals Chandrayaan-4 plans - Moon landing by 2028, sample return, and potential India-Japan partnership

"There are many issues that the Government of India tries to bring in and they ultimately take a U-turn because they're forced to do it because the numbers are not sufficient in Parliament. This is another one of those issues which is being brought up purely to divert the people's minds and attention. Today is the first phase of polling in Jammu and Kashmir. They're lagging in the state, as in Haryana. So I think just to divert people's minds and to create some sort of a diversion, they're talking about this issue. It is not possible with the current configuration of the Parliament for them to do so, but they have just passed it in the Cabinet. They've done other U-turns. This also will be a U-turn..." (ANI)

"Political stability is crucial for a thriving democracy. The Union Cabinet's approval of the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is truly commendable. This decision will serve as a milestone in promoting political stability, sustainable development, and a prosperous democracy. On behalf of the people of Uttar Pradesh, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the Honorable Prime Minister for this transformative step," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on in a post on X.

• Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to X to laud the Cabinet decsion to approve the Kovind paanel recokmendations on 'one nation, one poll. Tagging PM Modi, Shah said, "Under the leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, Bharat has been witnessing transformative reforms. Today, in this direction, Bharat takes a giant stride towards landmark electoral reforms with the Union Cabinet accepting the recommendations of the High-Level Committee on One Nation One Election."
• The home minister also said that, "This reflects Modi Ji's iron will to bolster our democracy through clean and financially efficient elections and accelerate economic growth through more productive allocation of resources."

• Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has expressed his strong opposition to the "One Nation, One Election" proposal, calling it a hidden agenda aimed at weakening India's federal structure and consolidating power at the central level. He said this plan would grant the central government more control, undermining the autonomy of states. Vijayan also hinted that the BJP, despite facing setbacks in the last Lok Sabha elections, is pushing ahead with this scheme without addressing the political challenges they encountered.
• "The Sangh Parivar is making a covert effort to move India's electoral politics toward a presidential system. The slogan "One Nation, One Election" has been devised to dismantle the diverse nature of Indian parliamentary democracy. Each state in India has its own unique circumstances and background. Ignoring these differences and mechanically conducting elections without considering the political issues arising in the states would either result in forced central rule or undermine the people's mandate, ultimately destroying democracy. The democratic community of the country must stand up against the Sangh Parivar's attempts to subvert the parliamentary democratic system of India and the very idea of India itself," ANI quoted Kerala CM as saying.

On 'One Nation, One Election', Samajwadi Party leader Ravidas Malhotra says, "...If BJP wants to implement 'One Nation, One Election', then it should call an all-party meeting on national presidents of all opposition parties and leaders of different political parties in Lok Sabha."

BSP Chief Mayawati tweeted, "Our party has a positive stance on the Union Cabinet's approval today of the proposal for simultaneous elections of the Lok Sabha, Assembly, and local bodies under the 'One Country, One Election' system. However, the objective must be aligned with national and public interest."

On the Cabinet's approval of 'One Nation, One Election,' Union Minister Giriraj Singh remarked, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always supported this initiative. Discussions were held with former Chief Justices, political leaders, parties, and chambers of commerce, and today, the Cabinet has given its approval. One Nation, One Election is essential for the country’s development and maintaining law and order. Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi should clarify whether One Nation, One Election existed before 1966."

"One Nation, One Election is impractical and unrealistic," says CPI's D Raja. he further added that "Many experts have highlighted that it cannot proceed under the current Constitution. When Parliament convenes, we must gather more details on this. If it is pushed forward, we will need to carefully study the potential consequences."

Senior Trinamool lawmaker Derek O'Brien criticised the BJP, calling the 'one nation, one election' initiative "just another cheap stunt." His comments followed the Union cabinet's approval of the high-level committee's report on the matter. "One Nation, One Election is just another cheap stunt from the anti-democratic BJP. Why were Maharashtra elections not announced along with elections in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir? Here's why. The Maharashtra government announced the Ladki Bahin scheme in the budget this June," he said in a statement.

Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Dotasra criticised the "One Nation, One Election" initiative, stating, "It is not feasible without amendments to the law, and they don't have the required majority to make those changes. This is just a distraction from their failures. Look at the Women's Reservation Bill—it was passed, but has it been implemented? This is exactly how the propaganda around 'One Nation, One Election' is being spread."

Reacting to the Cabinet announcement, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said, "We don't stand with this. One Nation One Election cannot work in a democracy. Elections need to be held as and when required if we want our democracy to survive."

One Nation, One Elections LIVE: One Nation, One Elections programme destroys federalism, says Owaisi

Ashwini Vaishnaw: We will implement one nation one election in current term of the government

•  80% of the respondents during the consultative process, especially youth, have given positive feedback to one nation one election, says Vaishnaw
• Common electoral roll can be prepared only with the support of states. Number of EVMs required, police force deployment for law and order will have to be discussed in detail, says Vaishnaw

Ashwini Vaishnaw: The government believes in consultative decision-making. Must keep people's opinion in mind and take people along.

Ashwini Vaishnaw: One nation one election was announced much before general election 2024. For making sure that we become developed country by 2047, whatever needs to be done will be done. This will be carried out with consensus of all.

Ashwini Vaishnaw: Good positive economic implication of one nation one election expected.

Large number of political parties have supported one nation one election initiative, says Ashwini Vaishnaw

The recommendations of the committee will be implemented in two phases. In the first phase, the Lok Sabha and assembly elections will be conducted simultaneously. In the second phase, the local body elections (panchayats and municipalities) will be conducted within 100 days of general elections

The extensive feedback has found widespread support for simultaneous elections, says Ashwini Vaishnaw

High-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind extensively consulted a broad spectrum of stakeholders including political parties and experts, says Vaishnaw

'One nation one election' panel recommendations accepted by Cabinet, says Vaishnaw.

Cabinet approves bio manufacturing and bio foundry at the outlay of Rs 9,197 crore, says Vaishnaw

"Chandrayaan-4 mission has been expanded to add more elements. The next step is to get the manned mission to the Moon. All preparatory steps towards this have been approved. Venus Orbiter Mission, Gaganyaan follow-on and Bharatiya Antariksh Station and Next Generation Launch Vehicle development also given approval," says Vaishnaw

Cabinet approves Indian Institute for Immersive Creators (IIIC). There is greater role of technology in film-making nowadays. It can create 5 lakh additional employment, says Vaishnaw

Focus of the scheme to provide housing, road, water, LPG, Ayushman card, 4g mobile connectivity, says Vaishnaw

PM Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan will cover 63,647 villages. The focus will be on household and community level infrastructure, health and nutrition, education and training, electrification, economic empowerment and connectivity, says Ashwini Vaishnaw

Cabinet approves PM Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan at the outlay of Rs 79,156 crore. It will cover 5 crore ST people, says Vaishnaw

PM Aasha will promote self-sufficiency in production of pulses, oilseeds and other essential agri-horticulture commodities, says Vaishnaw

Cabinet approved PM Aasha (Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan) at the outlay of Rs 35,000 crore.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is addressing the media. Informing about the Cabinet decisions, Vaishnaw says Modi Cabinet approved next generation launch vehicle development.

Currently, the Election Commission of India (ECI) oversees the conduct of Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, while the responsibility for local body elections, such as those for municipalities and panchayats, lies with the respective state election commissions.

The panel also suggested that the Election Commission of India (ECI), in collaboration with state election authorities, should develop a common electoral roll and voter ID cards.

The panel stated that conducting simultaneous polls would conserve resources, promote development and social unity, strengthen the "foundations of democratic framework," and support the realisation of the aspirations of "India, that is Bharat."

The panel led by ex-President Ramnath Kovind has recommended simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies. This is seen as the first step. This is to be followed by synchronised civic body polls within 100 days.

The central government has cleared 'One nation, One election' proposal. The 'One nation, One election' Bill is likely to be introduced in the upcoming winter session of Parliament. (Read More)

More than 700 workers at Bakkavor Group, a major supplier to UK supermarkets, are set to begin an indefinite strike starting September 27. The action, organized by the Unite union, stems from an unresolved pay dispute. The union claims that Bakkavor’s offer does not adequately address rising living costs faced by employees. The strike is expected to impact the supply of fresh food to major UK retailers.

Adani Group has dismissed claims made by *The Standard* (Kenya), stating that the company was involved in the approval process for a proposal related to the Kenya Airports Authority. In an official statement, the conglomerate clarified that it had not issued any statements or engaged with the media on the matter. The group labeled the report as "entirely false," distancing itself from any involvement with the ongoing developments mentioned in the Kenyan publication.

Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Israel and India in establishing 32 centers of excellence focused on agriculture. These centers aim to optimize water usage across various regions in India while introducing advanced Israeli irrigation technologies. Additionally, Israeli companies are working with the Indian government to create new water resources and enhance water network efficiency, collaborating with water companies in India's major cities.

A day-long bandh called by the INDIA bloc in Puducherry to protest the hike in power tariffs and privatization plans crippled normal life on Wednesday. Private transport services were halted, while government buses operated under police protection. Major shopping centers and bus terminals were deserted, and schools were shut, except for classes IX to XII, due to ongoing exams.

Protestors, including Congress and DMK leaders, held demonstrations across the city, criticizing the government's move to privatize the power sector and plans to introduce prepaid meters. The protest turned violent when an unidentified group stoned a government bus, injuring a woman passenger. Additionally, around 700 people, including key leaders, were detained during the protests.

Andhra Pradesh Congress, led by state president YS Sharmila, staged a protest in Vijayawada condemning the comments made by Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu and other BJP leaders targeting Rahul Gandhi. Addressing the gathering, Sharmila criticized the BJP for labeling Gandhi as a "terrorist" and accused the ruling party of fearing Gandhi's growing influence, both nationally and internationally. She further stated that the BJP's actions reflect their disregard for the Indian Constitution and their fear of Rahul Gandhi’s rising popularity among the public. The protest took place in front of Mahatma Gandhi's statue.

Congress workers staged a protest in Delhi against BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu, condemning his controversial remark labeling Rahul Gandhi as a ‘terrorist.’ The protestors demanded an apology from Bittu for his statements, intensifying political tensions between the two parties. Demonstrations took place outside key locations, with Congress leaders calling for accountability over such inflammatory language.

The Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC) aims for $1 billion in alcohol exports, up from $389 million last year. CIABC Director General Anant S Iyer emphasized the need for improved ease of doing business, including streamlined permissions and tax structures. He called for state-specific export policies and support from Indian missions abroad to achieve this ambitious target. India's current ranking in global alcohol exports is 40th, with major markets including UAE, Singapore, and Kenya.

The AAP leader submitted his resignation from the post of Delhi's chief minister on Monday in the face of limitations imposed on him by the SC's interim bail conditions. Delhi minister Atishi is set to takeover as the CM in Kejriwal's stead.

India is discussing measures to tackle increasing steel imports, Steel Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy said on Wednesday. With China, Japan, and South Korea as top exporters, local steel prices have hit a three-year low.

The West Bengal Junior Doctors Front has requested another meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, as some of their demands remain unresolved. An email was sent to the state's Chief Secretary, seeking further dialogue. Protests continue amidst growing tensions in the healthcare sector.

AAP will soon announce a door-to-door campaign featuring Arvind Kejriwal, where he will directly appeal to the public on his honesty. Rajya Sabha MP Sandeep Pathak stated that the campaign aims to let voters decide Kejriwal's fate based on their perception of his integrity. Details will be shared in the coming days.

A building collapsed in Karol Bagh, Delhi, leading to the deployment of five fire tenders for rescue operations. Concerns are growing about potential individuals trapped under the debris. Delhi Fire Services are on the scene, and further details are awaited.

India and the US are set to enhance bilateral energy cooperation, as discussed by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and US Assistant Secretary Geoffrey Pyatt at Gastech 2024 in Houston. Puri highlighted that emerging markets will drive 80% of the global energy demand increase by 2045, while both sides agreed to explore further collaboration across the energy value chain for a sustainable transition.

Congress leader Ajay Maken has filed a police complaint against BJP leaders Tarvinder Singh Marwah, Raghuraj Singh, Ravneet Bittu, and Shiv Sena-Shinde MLA Sanjay Gaikwad for making violent statements about Rahul Gandhi.

India and the US agreed to enhance collaboration across the energy value chain for a balanced energy transition. At the Gastech 2024 conference, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and US Assistant Secretary of State Geoffrey Pyatt emphasized investment, innovation, and bilateral cooperation, with Puri highlighting India's growing energy demand and initiatives in clean energy deployment.

Hezbollah pledged ongoing support for Gaza after deadly pager explosions in Lebanon, which the group attributed to Israel. The Iran-backed group warned of further retaliation for Tuesday’s incident that killed eight and injured thousands.

Meta Platforms Inc. is reportedly facing a significant fine from the EU for allegedly linking its free Marketplace services to Facebook, aiming to undermine rivals. The decision could arrive next month, potentially marking one of EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager’s final investigations

The Government of Maharashtra declared September 18, 2024, as a public holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act. Despite this, on September 15, key markets including government securities, forex, and money markets remained operational.

Delhi experienced a minimum temperature of 25.1°C on Wednesday morning. The India Meteorological Department forecasts cloudy skies and moderate rainfall throughout the day, with a maximum temperature of around 32°C. Humidity was at 85% as of 8:30 am.

A PIL has been filed in the Delhi High Court against Union Minister Ravneet Singh Bittu by Surjeet Yadav, President of Hindu Sena (S). The petition alleges that Bittu made derogatory comments about Rahul Gandhi, which could incite violence. The PIL requests the court to take action to prevent public unrest and maintain peace.

Suspected militants targeted Mongbung Meitei village in Manipur's Jiribam district on Tuesday evening, firing from sophisticated weapons. Village volunteers retaliated, and security forces contained the situation by 8 pm. No injuries were reported. Authorities are monitoring the area, with increased drone activity observed by locals. Additionally, security forces seized weapons and ammunition in Imphal East district during recent operations.

Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar, actor Ayushmann Khurrana, and Amruta Fadnavis, wife of Maharashtra's Deputy CM, participated in a beach clean-up drive at Versova following the Ganpati visarjan ritual.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Egypt to push for a ceasefire in Gaza amid escalating tensions. His visit is part of broader diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

Balaji, also known as Kakka Thoppu Balaji, was shot dead by police in an early morning encounter at Vyasarpadi, Chennai. His body has been taken to Stanley Hospital, according to Chennai Police Officials.

Ukraine launched multiple drones overnight, targeting western Russian regions. Seven drones were destroyed in the Smolensk region, according to Governor Vasily Anokhin. No casualties or damage were reported in the attack.

On September 16, BSF neutralised a Pakistani intruder near the Amritsar border after he crossed the International Boundary under the cover of darkness. PKR 270, including a half-torn PKR 10 note, was recovered.

The US said it was "not involved" and "not aware of this incident in advance" regarding the Hezbollah pager explosions in Lebanon. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated, "I can tell you that the US was not involved in it, the US was not aware of this incident in advance and, at this point, we're gathering information." Miller avoided commenting on suspicions that Israel was behind the blasts, which have heightened tensions between Hezbollah and Israel following the October 7 Hamas attack.

The US stated it was not involved in the Lebanon pager explosions, with spokesperson Matthew Miller saying, "We are gathering information... The US was not aware of this incident in advance."

The INDIA alliance has called for a bandh in Puducherry protesting the power tariff hike. As a result, classes for standards 1-8 in all government and private schools are suspended, while classes 9-12 remain unaffected.

On Tuesday, hundreds of pagers used by Hezbollah members exploded across Lebanon, killing nine people and injuring around 3,000. Hezbollah, backed by Iran, blamed Israel for the attack, escalating tensions amid ongoing conflict between the two groups following Hamas's October 7 attack. The incident has further strained the volatile Israel-Lebanon border, where clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces have intensified in recent weeks.

Pager explosions across Lebanon killed nine and injured 3,000. Hezbollah accused Israel, heightening tensions amid ongoing conflict between the groups following the October 7 Hamas attack.

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