Monthly Archives: September 2025

Ladakh protest: LG reviews security situation in Leh, calls for vigilance

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The situation in Ladakh has become extremely concerning amid ongoing protests, which have resulted in four people being killed and more than 80 others injured. The violence erupted during widespread clashes amid a shutdown called in the region.

In response to the deteriorating situation, the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory, Kavinder Gupta, chaired a security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. During the meeting, Gupta emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to maintain peace across Ladakh, as reported by news agency PTI.

The shutdown and protests were initiated by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in support of their demand to advance proposed talks with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and the grant of statehood to Ladakh.

According to a statement posted on the social media platform X by the Lieutenant Governor’s office, a high-level security review meeting was held to assess the emerging situation across Ladakh. The meeting highlighted the necessity of seamless inter-agency coordination, proactive measures, and heightened vigilance to safeguard peace, security, and public order across the Union Territory.

Senior officers from the police, CRPF, and civil administration attended the meeting, discussing the prevailing law and order situation in detail.

Hundreds of protesters advocating for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent on Wednesday. The protest escalated with demonstrators setting fire to the BJP office in Leh and several vehicles, prompting authorities to impose a curfew in the town and adjoining areas.

The Centre alleged that the mob violence was incited by “provocative statements” from climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The Modi-led party also suggested that certain “politically motivated” individuals were unhappy with the progress in ongoing talks between the government and Ladakhi groups.

Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk, who had been leading a hunger strike in Leh over the twin demands, called off his hunger strike following the violence. He urged people to restore peace across Ladakh, according to PTI.

(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/ladakh-protest-lg-reviews-security-situation-in-leh-calls-for-heightened-vigilance-23595753

Palghar: Locals Protest Against Jindal Port At Murbe Bay, Cite ‘Scientific Errors’ In Report

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**Sindhu Sahyadri Foundation Challenges Environmental Report on Jindal Port Construction in Murbe Bay**

Mumbai: The Sindhu Sahyadri Foundation has raised serious concerns over the validity of the environmental report related to the construction of the Jindal port in the Murbe Bay area. Due to multiple errors found within the report, the foundation has demanded its immediate retraction.

At the same time, the residents of Morbe have strongly opposed the port project, warning that they will not allow the construction of what they describe as a detrimental port under any circumstances.

The proposed port is expected to have a significant impact on local biodiversity, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and landowners. There is considerable anxiety that the fishing industry could face severe devastation. Additionally, concerns have been raised that if the port’s capacity is fully utilized, nearby coastal towns including Alevadi, Navapur, Nandgaon, and Satpati could be at risk of flooding.

Just a few days ago, the inhabitants of Murbe began demonstrating against the Jindal port project to express their opposition.

**Key Grounds for Dispute**

Bhushan Bhoir, founder of the Sindhu Sahyadri Foundation, has pointed out numerous critical errors in the marine and coastal biodiversity report prepared by Thakur College. According to a report by Saamana, the environmental study contains significant misidentifications and misnamings of conch species. Additionally, various marine organisms found on the rocky shore and ocean floor have been inaccurately classified.

One notable mistake includes the incorrect identification of crab leg fragments found in seabed sediment as belonging to a separate species.

The foundation has condemned the entire report as poor quality and environmentally unsound, citing fundamental and scientifically indefensible errors.

**Report Submission and Official Representation**

Thakur College prepared the contested environmental impact report for the proposed port at Murbe and submitted it to the responsible company. This report was then forwarded to the Pollution Control Board.

In light of the inaccuracies, Bhushan Bhoir has formally requested the annulment of the report. He has also submitted a detailed representation to Palghar District Collector Dr. Indurani Jakhar, urging immediate action on the matter.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/palghar-locals-protest-against-jindal-port-at-murbe-bay-cite-scientific-errors-in-report

PM Modi : AK-203 rifles production starts soon in UP, strengthens Make In India

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“Our armed forces aspire to achieve self-reliance and minimise dependence on external sources. To this end, we are dedicated to developing a robust defence infrastructure within India, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that every component is proudly ‘Made in India’,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He added that to support this vision, a thriving ecosystem is being fostered, with Uttar Pradesh playing a pivotal role in this initiative. In line with these efforts, the production of AK-203 rifles will soon commence in a factory established with assistance from Russia.

A Defence Corridor is also being developed in Uttar Pradesh, where manufacturing of BrahMos missiles and other weapon systems has already begun, the Prime Minister noted.

The trade show, held under the theme “Ultimate Sourcing Begins Here,” is scheduled from September 25 to 29. It has three core objectives: innovation, integration, and internationalisation. A three-pronged buyer strategy is targeting international buyers, domestic Business-to-Business (B2B) buyers, and domestic Business-to-Consumer (B2C) buyers, providing opportunities for exporters, small businesses, and consumers alike.

UPITS-2025 highlights the state’s diverse craft traditions, modern industries, robust MSMEs, and emerging entrepreneurs, all showcased on a single platform.

PM Modi also highlighted the benefits of the GST reforms, stating that ordinary families will see significant monthly savings. He criticised Congress over its criticism of the GST reform campaign, saying, “To hide their pre-2014 failures, Congress and its allies are lying to the people. We have increased the income and savings of the people of India. We are not going to stop here. As we continue to strengthen our economy, we will continue to reduce taxes. The process of GST reforms will go on continuously.”

In response, Congress pointed out that Narendra Modi had opposed the GST taxation model when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh remarked, “From 2006-2014, for eight years, only one CM opposed the GST, and that CM became the Prime Minister in 2014 and took a U-turn and emerged as a messiah of GST in 2017.”

The BJP responded by saying that the Congress-led government’s rule was marked by “only talks and no work,” accusing the party of resorting to “lies.”

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed/ agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/pm-modi–ak203-rifles-production-to-start-in-uttar-pradesh-boosting-make-in-india-defence-drive-23595747

‘Bigg Boss 19’ grand finale to air in December?

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**’Bigg Boss 19′ Grand Finale Expected to Air in December 2025**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Sep 25, 2025, 11:25 am*

The much-awaited grand finale of *Bigg Boss 19*, hosted by Salman Khan, is reportedly scheduled for December 5, 2025. This update was shared recently by Bigg Boss Khabri on Instagram. However, viewers should note that the finale date might change if the show receives an extension from the channel.

The current season of *Bigg Boss* premiered in August and features popular contestants such as Kunickaa Sadanand and Gaurav Khanna. Since its start, the housemates have faced numerous challenges, creating an engaging atmosphere for the audience.

### Finale Date Subject to Change

According to Bigg Boss Khabri’s Instagram post, “*Bigg Boss 19 Grand Finale estimated date is 5th December 2025 if the show not extended.. chances are too low.*” The post also hinted that the season may conclude after 105 days. This possible early wrap-up is reportedly due to a lukewarm response from the audience, despite the initial plan for the season to run for five months.

### Recent Drama and Updates

In the latest episode, the housemates voted in favor of Abhishek Bajaj becoming the captain, adding a new dynamic to the game. This season has seen several heated arguments, including a notable clash between Farhana Bhatt and Kunickaa Sadanand, which has contributed significantly to the season’s drama.

Stay tuned for more updates on *Bigg Boss 19* as the season approaches its climax!
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bigg-boss-19-finale-date-revealed-report/story

NASA to stop a $500M spacecraft from crashing to Earth

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**NASA to Stop $500 Million Spacecraft from Crashing to Earth**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 25, 2025, 11:03 AM*

NASA has awarded a $30 million contract to Katalyst Space Technologies, an Arizona-based startup, to prevent the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory (also known as SWIFT) from falling back into Earth’s atmosphere.

The $500 million spacecraft, which has been studying distant galaxies and black holes since 2004, is currently in low-Earth orbit. However, its orbit is gradually decaying due to atmospheric drag, putting it at risk of burning up upon re-entry. NASA estimates there is a 90% chance SWIFT will disintegrate in Earth’s atmosphere by late 2026 if no action is taken.

### Mission Details

Katalyst Space Technologies plans to launch a modified version of its “Link” spacecraft to rendezvous with the observatory and push it into a higher orbit. This mission serves as a critical test of space-docking technology, which has important implications for military operations and satellite maintenance.

Notably, SWIFT does not have an onboard propulsion system or attachment points for docking. To overcome this, Katalyst’s Link craft will feature a tailored robotic mechanism designed to pinch small metal rims on the observatory, securing a firm grip for the orbital boost.

### Service Strategy

Originally, Link was intended for an internal demonstration mission. However, after studying detailed designs of SWIFT, Katalyst will modify the spacecraft starting next month, aiming for a launch in May 2026.

Once in orbit near the observatory, Link will engage its robotic arm to attach to SWIFT and execute the maneuver that will extend the telescope’s operational life.

### Military Implications

The mission also carries significant military interest. Katalyst CEO Ghonhee Lee told Reuters that the success of this operation will demonstrate that any satellite can be serviced, even those lacking a launch adapter ring.

The Pentagon is closely monitoring the mission’s progress. Lee expressed hopes to collaborate with the U.S. Space Command on additional orbital maneuvering capabilities. This highlights the growing strategic importance of space-docking technologies amid escalating geopolitical competition, especially between the United States and China.

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This innovative mission not only aims to save a valuable scientific asset but also marks a milestone in satellite servicing and space technology with broad civilian and defense applications.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/nasa-enlists-start-up-to-rescue-500m-spacecraft-in-orbit/story

‘Bigg Boss 19’ grand finale to air in December?

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**’Bigg Boss 19′ Grand Finale Expected to Air in December 2025**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | September 25, 2025, 11:25 AM*

The much-awaited grand finale of **Bigg Boss 19**, hosted by Salman Khan, is reportedly scheduled for **December 5, 2025**. This update was shared by the popular insider account *Bigg Boss Khabri* on Instagram. However, fans should note that the finale date is tentative and may change if the show receives an extension from the broadcasting channel.

The current season, which premiered in August 2025, features contestants such as **Kunickaa Sadanand** and **Gaurav Khanna**, who have been navigating various challenges inside the Bigg Boss house. Despite initial plans for a five-month-long run, there are hints that the show may conclude after around 105 days due to its lukewarm audience response.

In an Instagram post, *Bigg Boss Khabri* noted,
*”Bigg Boss 19 Grand Finale estimated date is 5th December 2025 if the show is not extended… chances are low.”*

The season has been marked by intense drama and confrontations, keeping viewers engaged. Recently, housemates voted in favor of **Abhishek Bajaj** for the coveted captaincy position. Additionally, tensions flared up between contestants **Farhana Bhatt** and **Kunickaa Sadanand**, adding to the intensity inside the house.

Stay tuned for more updates on Bigg Boss 19 as the season moves towards its climax.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/bigg-boss-19-finale-date-revealed-report/story

Glimmering sea of solar as China expands desert installation

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ORDOS, China — An ocean of blue solar panels ripples across the ocher dunes of Inner Mongolia’s Kubuqi desert, a glittering example of China’s almost inconceivably mammoth energy transition.

Even as other countries have put the brakes on desert solar projects for economic or technical reasons, China – the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases – continues to push forward.
https://business.inquirer.net/549147/glimmering-sea-of-solar-as-china-expands-desert-installation

Surviving the Nova Massacre and battling cancer: Raz Peri on pain, healing, and hope – interview

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Surviving the Nova Massacre and Battling Cancer: Raz Peri on Pain, Healing, and Hope

“Every donation, every share, every kind word, saves lives,” Raz Peri told the Post.

Raz Peri (photo credit: Courtesy)

By Mathilda Heller

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868519

India test-fires Agni Prime missile from rail-based mobile platform

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), successfully conducted the launch of the intermediate-range Agni-Prime missile under a full operational scenario on Wednesday, the defence ministry announced. The location of the test-firing has not been disclosed.

This “first-of-its-kind” launch was carried out from a specially designed rail-based mobile launcher that can move on a rail network without any pre-conditions. This system provides cross-country mobility and enables launch within a short reaction time, explained Rajnath Singh.

“With this successful flight test, India joins a select group of nations that have developed a canisterised launch system capable of firing from a moving rail network,” Singh stated on X.

According to the ministry, the missile is equipped with independent launch capability, including state-of-the-art communication systems and protection mechanisms. The missile’s trajectory was tracked by multiple ground stations and the launch proceeded flawlessly, meeting all mission objectives.

“This achievement will pave the way for the future induction of rail-based missile systems into our services,” the ministry added.

The launch was witnessed by senior DRDO scientists and officers from the Strategic Forces Command. It is important to note that the “road mobile” variant of Agni-Prime has already been inducted into service following a series of successful flight trials.

This test-firing occurred just over four and a half months after the recent four-day military conflict between India and Pakistan.

Separately, on Tuesday, Rajnath Singh emphasized India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, highlighting that it is not just about manufacturing for domestic needs but about developing capabilities to become a credible source of advanced technology and high-quality products globally.

During the same day, Singh and his Moroccan counterpart Abdelatif Loudyi jointly inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s (TASL) state-of-the-art defence manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Morocco. Singh described this event as a historic milestone in the evolving strategic partnership between India and Morocco.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/india-test-fires-agni-prime-missile-from-rail-based-mobile-platform-23595727