India News Highlights: Will take swachh bharat to new highs, PM Modi on 10 years of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

Two accused school trustees in Badlapur sexual assault case detained, reports Thane police

Inaugurating a slew of community Durga pujas in Kolkata and other districts of West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday alleged that some people were trying to tarnish the image of the state before the world. "Those who are trying to tarnish (the image of) Bengal before the world will someday realise that they cannot absolve themselves of what they are doing," she said at Chetla Agrani club, from where she also virtually inaugurated a large number of community Durga pujas in several districts.

At least three persons were killed and as many injured following a blast at a firecracker factory in a village here on Wednesday, police said. The explosion, which took place in the Sirauli police station area, also caused damage to some adjoining buildings, they added. The police said they are verifying the licence of the cracker unit's operator.

A great meeting with NSA Jake Sullivan. As always, a productive conversation on bilateral cooperation and good insights into global politics, tweets EAM S Jaishankar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told star javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra's mother on Wednesday that the 'churma' prepared by her reminded him of his mother and turned him emotional. In a heartfelt letter addressed to Saroj Devi, PM Modi said Chopra gave him the "delicious" churma when they met during a banquet hosted in the honour of visiting Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Tuesday. It gave him a lot of happiness as the two-time Olympic medal-winner often spoke about her churma, he said.

"People of Haryana want change now, they want Arvind Kejriwal," said Haryana AAP president Sushil Kumar Gupta during an election rally in Jhajjar earlier today.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said the conduct of peaceful elections and recent development in Jammu and Kashmir is proof of the fact that the Union territory is now busy "creating a new history by forgetting its past."  "The young generation has also understood this very well and therefore they do not have tools of destruction like guns and stones in their hands, but dreams of peace and aspirations are visible in their eyes."

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday asked the people of Haryana to oust the BJP in the October 5 assembly polls, saying this is a fight against injustice, untruth and the wicked. Gandhi addressed a public meeting in Haryana's Julana to campaign for her party's candidate from the constituency and Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat. Attacking the BJP-led government in the state over employment, the Agniveer military recruitment scheme and farmers' welfare among other issues, Gandhi alleged that the ruling party "betrayed" people at every stage.

Political strategist-turned-activist Prashant Kishor on Wednesday alleged that after being voted to power by people impressed with his track record in Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has "diverted wealth of the entire country to his home state".

India News Live: Ahmedabad Police to get high-tech Command and Control Centre with AI Integration

Ladakh activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was detained by released by Delhi Police, released from Bawana Police Station

A fire breaks out at a company in the Wagle Estate area of Thane. Fire tenders are present at the spot

The Indian Air Force will display its full defence prowess, especially air capability and also showcase its range of new aircraft, including Rafale, in action at a breathtaking display over the Marina sky on October 6, as part of the 92nd IAF Day.

India News Live: Around 30 villages are affected by the flood like situation in Uttar Pradesh

The High Commission of India today organized an event on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti at Gandhi Statue in Tavistock Square, where Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and the High Commissioner Of India, Vikram Doraiswami paid tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi

He says, "These colonies here are around 30-40 years old. The poor people by working hard bought the land and made their houses here. This land was not given to them by the government. Today, Revanth Reddy is talking of big things like the beautification of Musi river front and the demolition of the houses here. Earlier, KCR also had said the same thing. I want to tell Revanth Reddy that construct houses, not demolish them, and the Central government will help. Telangana did not vote for Congress so their houses are demolished. In last 6 months, there has been a lot of corruption in Telangana. Revanth Reddy is looting money and sending it to Delhi. I warn Revanth Reddy that we will not let them demolish the houses here, we will fight and we are even ready to go to jail."

Members of Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha today took out a rally from its office in Daulatganj Lashkar with black flags and protested against the Bangladesh cricket team which is in the city for the first T20I match with the Indian cricket team on October 6

PM Modi says, "Today, on the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, I have got the privilege of coming here. Gandhiji came to Hazaribagh in 1925 during the freedom movement. Bapu's thoughts, his teachings are part of our resolutions. I salute Bapu, and pay tribute to him."

At a press conference earlier today, representatives of bus marshals requested Delhi ministers and leaders of Aam Aadmi Party and BJP to pay heed to their demands. They said that they have been facing financial difficulties for the last one year.

Embassy of India in Phnom Penh in collaboration with Ministry of Interior - Cambodia has successfully rescued 67 Indian nationals trapped in fraudulent job scams. The rescue of these 67 Indian nationals will be facilitated in batches, says the Embassy of India in Cambodia.

"You all need to say 'Jai Bihar' so loud that no one calls you and your children 'Bihari' and it feels like an abuse. Your voice must reach Delhi. It must reach Bengal where students from Bihar were beaten. It must reach Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Bombay wherever Bihari children were abused and beaten," said Kishor.

IAF copter makes emergency landing in Bihar''s Muzaffarpur district. Officials report that all occupants including pilot are safe

In Jharkhand's Hazaribag, Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Today, I launched the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan with an outlay of around Rs 80,000 crore. This scheme will cover around 63,000 tribal villages for their development. It will benefit more than 5 crore people. I am happy that this scheme is starting from the land of Bhagwan Birsa Munda."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays the foundation stone, launches and inaugurates various projects worth over Rs. 83,300 crore in Hazaribag, Jharkhand. The projects include several initiatives under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) and the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which has a total budget of around 79,150 crore rupees. In addition, the prime minister will lay the cornerstone for 25 Eklavya schools in addition to inaugurating 40 Eklavya schools. These programs will begin at the Vinoba Bhabe University campus.

Delhi Police busted an international drug syndicate and seized more than 560 kgs of cocaine. 4 people arrested The cocaine is worth more than Rs 2000 Crores in the international market. Narco-terror angle being investigated, reports Delhi Police Special Cell

The Maharashtra government has set up a one-member inquiry committee, led by retired High Court judge Dilip Bhosale, to investigate the encounter of Akshay Shinde, the accused in the Badlapur sexual assault case. The decision was made to ensure a thorough examination of the incident, with the committee expected to submit its findings within three months.

"Today is the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. I think perhaps there never was anyone else like him in the world. He taught Satyagraha through love and peace. He taught people to fight for the truth and fight against injustice. I think in this era of dictatorship, Gandhi ji's way of Satyagraha is much more important than ever," said Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, emphasizing the relevance of Gandhi's ideals today.

“Mahatma Gandhi always promoted Khadi and used it as a means to unite people for the freedom struggle... When PM Narendra Modi came to power in 2014, he emphasized two things, vocal for local, and Khadi for Nation, for Fashion, for Transformation," said BJP National President and Union Minister JP Nadda. He further highlighted Khadi's rapid growth, noting its annual turnover increased from Rs. 25,000 crore to Rs. 1.55 lakh crore, making it one of the fastest-moving markets in India.

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud honoured Mahatma Gandhi by paying tribute at the Supreme Court on the occasion of Gandhi's birth anniversary. The tribute marked the reverence for Gandhi's enduring legacy and principles of non-violence and justice.

"We are closely monitoring the recent escalation in the security situation in the region. Indian nationals are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran," stated the Ministry of External Affairs in a travel advisory. The advisory follows heightened tensions in the region, emphasizing the need for caution.

“Any person who is bothered by my relationship with my Prime Minister, I want to clarify in words, even though I have expressed it enough times through my actions, no one can separate me and my Prime Minister... Once and for all, I want to say this very clearly and categorically that this is not going to happen... Neither my father nor I, have ever been hungry for power. I will never support any wrong decision just for the sake of being in power... I will carry forward the ideas of my Prime Minister,” stated Chirag Paswan, emphasizing his unwavering support for Prime Minister Modi.

A judge in a fast-track court in Bareilly issued a comprehensive 42-page order detailing the concept of 'love jihad' while sentencing a man to life imprisonment. The court found the accused guilty and emphasized the implications of such actions, highlighting the need for awareness regarding this controversial term within the context of the case.

"To keep roads and lakes clean, we need to organize cleanliness competitions at panchayat and zilla levels," said PM Modi during his address. He emphasized the achievements of the Swachh Bharat Mission but urged, "We have to keep cleaning every day" to maintain the progress made in cleanliness efforts.

“You all made the Swachh Bharat Mission a success. Events are being organised today in various parts of the world. Several state CMs, ministers, and other representatives participated in this drive. I have been informed that in just 15 days of ‘Sewa Pakhwada’, more than 27 lakh events were organised in the country, in which more than 28 crore people participated. Continuous efforts can only lead to clean India,” says PM Modi as he participates in the 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2024' programme at Vigyan Bhawan in Delhi.

During an event on October 2, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that Mission Amrut will facilitate the establishment of water and sewage treatment plants across the country. He noted the successful execution of 27 lakh programs under Seva Parikram in the last 15 days, with millions of people participating. Modi emphasized the inclusive nature of the Swacchata Abhiyan, stating that individuals from various living conditions—whether in chawls or flats—are actively engaging in the cleanliness campaign.

Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and other dignitaries paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi in a commemorative event marking his birth anniversary. The ceremony celebrated Gandhi's legacy and contributions to India's freedom struggle, reflecting the enduring significance of his principles in today's society.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath remarked, "Today the whole country is celebrating the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, and is forever indebted to his contributions towards India's freedom struggle and humanity." He highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Sewa Pakhwada," which began on September 17 and continues today on Gandhi Jayanti. Adityanath emphasized that the Swachh Bharat Mission is a tribute to Gandhi's vision of cleanliness and asserted that women's empowerment is essential for a self-reliant society. He noted that Gandhi's ideals of cleanliness, empowerment, and independence remain relevant today, stating, "All powerful nations in the world primarily achieved the aim of self-reliance."

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversaries. The tributes honored Gandhi's legacy of non-violence and Shastri's dedication to the nation, highlighting their significant contributions to India's history.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin communicated with his Israeli counterpart on Tuesday, reaffirming that the U.S. is "well-postured" to defend its interests in the Middle East. This discussion followed Iran's missile attack on Israel, which occurred amid Israel's military campaign in Lebanon. Austin emphasized Washington's commitment to support its allies in the region amidst rising tensions.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Washington, discussing bilateral cooperation on regional security, climate crisis, and recent developments in global challenges.

Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, the chief of Dera Sacha Sauda and a convicted rapist, walked out of Sunaria jail in Rohtak, Haryana, on Wednesday after being granted a 20-day parole. Singh will spend his temporary release at the Dera ashram in Barnawa, located in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh. His release was accompanied by strict security measures, according to an official statement.

A helicopter crash near Bavdhan in Pune district has left two individuals feared dead, according to a Pimpri Chinchwad Police official. Details regarding the incident are still emerging, and further information is awaited as authorities investigate the crash site.

President Droupadi Murmu honored former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri by paying tributes at Vijay Ghat on his birth anniversary. The ceremony commemorated Shastri's significant contributions to the nation and his legacy of leadership and integrity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted a heartfelt tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, stating, "Respectful tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, who dedicated his life for the 'jawan', 'kisan', and 'swabhiman' of the country." Shastri, known for his leadership and integrity, is remembered for his slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" and his unwavering commitment to the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary, acknowledging him as a symbol of truth, harmony, and equality. In a post on X, Modi remarked that Gandhi’s life continues to inspire the nation. He also paid tribute to India’s second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri, celebrating his dedication to soldiers and farmers. Shastri's famous slogan, "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan," and his legacy of simplicity and integrity remain widely respected.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar honored Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat by paying floral tributes on the occasion of his birth anniversary. The solemn ceremony commemorated Gandhi's enduring legacy of peace, and non-violence, and his pivotal role in India's independence movement.

The Indian stock markets will remain closed on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, in observance of Gandhi Jayanti. The holiday marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, honoring his contributions to India's independence and legacy of non-violence. Trading will resume as usual on the following day.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Washington, D.C., to reinforce the U.S.-India relationship. They discussed enhancing collaboration on regional and global issues, advancing cooperation in emerging technologies, and expanding clean energy initiatives to combat climate change. Blinken also emphasized Prime Minister Modi's August visit to Kyiv and stressed the importance of a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, according to U.S. Department of State Spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Delhi Chief Minister Atishi offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on his 155th birth anniversary. The occasion, observed as Gandhi Jayanti, honors the legacy of the Father of the Nation, celebrated for his principles of truth and non-violence.

Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi honored former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri by offering tributes at Vijay Ghat on his birth anniversary. Shastri, remembered for his leadership and simplicity, shares his birthday with Mahatma Gandhi, and is celebrated for his role in shaping modern India.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena honoured Mahatma Gandhi on his 155th birth anniversary by offering floral tributes at Rajghat. The occasion, marked as Gandhi Jayanti, commemorates the Father of the Nation's enduring legacy of non-violence and truth.

Good morning! Welcome to Moneycontrol's live coverage of top news and headlines. Stay tuned for further updates.