QUICKREADS

Chandrayaan-3: ISRO to launch third Moon exploration mission today: Top facts
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch its third mission to the Moon, Chandrayaan-3, on February 11. If successful, India will become the fourth country to achieve a soft landing on the Moon, after the US, Russia, and China. The spacecraft will be launched on a GSLV Mark 3 (LVM 3) heavy-lift launch vehicle and is expected to land on the Moon on August 23. The mission aims to conduct an analysis of lunar soil, explore the Moon's surface with a rover, and record moonquakes.

Chhattisgarh government hikes ex gratia for fallen soldiers' family to ₹50 lakh
The Chhattisgarh government has increased financial assistance for families of fallen soldiers from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 50 lakh. The decision, made during a Rajya Sainik Board meeting, also includes higher amounts for gallantry awards and support for disabled veterans. Additionally, serving soldiers and ex-servicemen will receive stamp duty exemptions on property purchases.

Delhi govt to clear ₹140 crore pending EV subsidy dues after high court rap
The Delhi government will soon clear pending electric vehicle (EV) subsidies totaling Rs 140 crore, following a High Court order. Transport Minister Pankaj Singh announced the verification of applications to tackle the backlog from the past two years. The current EV policy has been extended to March 2026, while a new policy draft is in development.

Supreme Court order on Waqf more than a rap on knuckles of government: TMC MP Derek O'Brien
Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien criticized the Indian government after the Supreme Court suspended key provisions of the Waqf Amendment Act, which he claims undermines equality and religious freedom. He highlighted procedural issues in the bill's passage and questioned the constitutionality of laws targeting specific communities, urging the Supreme Court to address fundamental rights concerns.

Delhi BMW crash case: Accused's blood test negative for alcohol
Delhi Police revealed the accused's blood test was negative for alcohol. Gaganpreet, arrested Monday after a BMW crash killed one person and injured another, was sent to two days' judicial custody.

Court seeks Tihar response on Rana plea to call kin
Delhi court demands Tihar jail's explanation for blocking 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana's court-ordered phone calls to family, seeking to hire a private lawyer. The jail awaits NIA approval, potentially facing contempt action for non-compliance.
EC to begin training poll officials in Bengal as part of SIR of electoral rolls
The Election Commission is set to train poll officers in West Bengal starting Tuesday for the special intensive revision of electoral rolls ahead of next year's assembly polls. Senior officials will lead sessions to equip trainers for guiding booth-level officers in the voter list revision process, emphasizing household visits to verify details and assist voters.

Elgar Parishad case: SC grants interim bail to Mahesh Raut on medical grounds
The Supreme Court granted interim bail to Mahesh Raut, an accused in the Elgar Parishad-Bhima Koregaon case, for six weeks on medical grounds, citing his rheumatoid arthritis. Raut had previously been granted bail by the Bombay High Court, but the National Investigation Agency requested a stay. The court noted the need for specialized medical care unavailable in prison.

Shops washed away, hotels destroyed: Scary videos show damage across Dehradun
Dehradun suffered severe monsoon damage with cloudburst, swollen rivers washing away shops and destroying infrastructure. Two people missing, roads and hotels damaged. Rescue teams deployed, residents advised to stay away from water bodies.

Stalin launches 'Anbukkarangal' scheme, says DMK committed to public service
Chennai Chief Minister M K Stalin criticized politicians focused solely on power, emphasizing the DMK government's commitment to serving the public. He launched the Anbukkarangal initiative, providing Rs 2,000 monthly support for the education of orphaned children. The scheme aims to assist 6,082 children, reflecting the government's dedication to welfare and responsibility in politics.

What happens if you miss ITR deadline? Late fees, delayed refund and more. Details
Income Tax Return deadline extended to September 16. Late filing incurs fees up to Rs 5000, potential loss of tax benefits, delayed refunds, and carry-forward loss restrictions. Individuals can still file after deadline with additional charges.

2 missing, shops washed away as heavy rain lashes Dehradun
Cloudburst in Dehradun's Sahastradhara area caused two people to go missing and shops to be washed away. Authorities activated disaster response teams, restricted traffic, and warned residents about rising water levels amid heavy rainfall.

‘They won’t buy…’: After Russian oil, corn becomes new flashpoint in US' tariff push on India
US Commerce Secretary warns India of market access risks if it doesn't buy US corn, citing trade imbalance. Tensions rise over tariffs, GM corn imports, and oil purchases from Russia, with negotiations set to continue amid diplomatic challenges.

Suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil says he remains loyal to party
Suspended Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil maintains party loyalty despite sexual misconduct allegations. He attended Assembly, seated in back benches, and pledged cooperation with the ongoing Crime Branch investigation while rejecting specific claims.

Cong, BRS and BJP brace for triangular contest in Jubilee Hills assembly by-poll in December
In the upcoming Jubilee Hills by-election, Congress, BRS, and BJP are preparing for a fierce triangular contest. The election is crucial for determining political influence in Hyderabad, with each party strategizing to win the seat and gain momentum for future municipal polls.

BJP expels Uttar Pradesh leader after ‘objectionable’ video surfaces
The BJP has expelled former district vice-president Gaurishankar Agrahari following the emergence of an alleged objectionable video involving him and a teenage girl. Agrahari claims the video is doctored and politically motivated. Authorities are investigating the matter, and if the girl is a minor, legal action will be taken.