
Shatrughan Sinha Sparks Controversy with Call for Nationwide Non-Veg Ban
Pointers by Suprava Priyadarshni 07-Feb-2025
- TMC MP Shatrughan Sinha advocated for a nationwide ban on non-vegetarian food, including beef, during a media interaction outside Parliament on February 5, 2025.
- Sinha's statement contradicts his party's stance, as TMC leaders, including Mamata Banerjee, have consistently supported freedom of food choice and opposed dietary restrictions.
- The actor-turned-politician also expressed support for the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) implementation in Uttarakhand, calling it "prima facie commendable" but suggesting an all-party meeting to address potential issues.
- Sinha's comments have drawn criticism from opposition parties and even some TMC leaders, with many viewing it as an attempt to align with RSS ideology.
- The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in India regarding food choices, religious sensitivities, and the implementation of uniform laws across diverse cultural regions.

Netanyahu expresses regret over tragic mishap killing journalists in Gaza hospital
Pointers by Amit Dutt 25-Aug-2025
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep regret over the tragic incident at Nasser Hospital in Gaza that killed 20 people, including five journalists.
- The attack involved a double missile strike hitting the hospital’s fourth floor while rescue teams were attending the injured.
- Among the deceased journalists were members from Reuters, Associated Press, Al Jazeera, and NBC.
- Netanyahu emphasized that Israel values journalists, medical staff, and civilians, and said Israel’s war is against Hamas terrorists, aiming to bring hostages home.
- The incident received global condemnation, with calls for impartial investigation and ceasefire to protect civilians and press freedom.

PM Modi launches Rs 5,400 crore development projects in Gujarat spanning railways, roads, power, housing, and urban infrastructure
Pointers by Amit Dutt 25-Aug-2025
- PM Modi launched development projects worth Rs 5,400 crore in Gujarat across railways, roads, power, housing, and urban infrastructure.
- Key railway projects include doubling Mahesana-Palanpur line and gauge conversions to improve connectivity.
- Road projects include widening roads and building overpasses to ease traffic and boost trade.
- Power sector upgrades focus on distribution efficiency and outage reduction in Ahmedabad, Mehsana, and Gandhinagar.
- Social welfare projects include slum rehabilitation with 1,500 homes for urban poor under PMAY (U).

PM Modi stands firm ahead of US tariff hike deadline, pledges unwavering support for Indian farmers and small businesses
Pointers by Amit Dutt 25-Aug-2025
- PM Modi stated India will not compromise on the interests of farmers and small businesses, even as the US prepares to impose 50% tariffs on Indian imports.
- The government is ready to face increased pressure and will put the nation’s priorities first.
- Modi urged citizens and businesses to support ‘Made in India’ products, promoting self-reliance.
- Protection of small entrepreneurs, farmers, and cattle rearers will remain top priority for the government.
- Modi condemned the US tariffs as unfair, reaffirming that India stands strong against external pressure.

Human Remains Found in Lancashire Home May Belong to Children, Police Say
Pointers by Vyom Tiwari 23-Aug-2025
- Builders found human remains on August 15 at a site on Cleveland Road, Lytham, Lancashire.
- Police believe the remains may belong to children and are part of a historical burial.
- Authorities do not consider the discovery suspicious and treat it as isolated and historical.
- Investigations are ongoing to identify the remains, including their age and cause of death.
- The remains were removed from the property, and the police thanked homeowners and contractors for cooperation.

India Temporarily Suspends Most Postal Services to the US From August 25 Amid New US Customs Rules
Pointers by Vyom Tiwari 23-Aug-2025
- India halts most postal shipments to the US starting August 25, except letters and small gifts.
- The US revoked duty-free status for imports under $800, effective August 29 under Executive Order 14324.
- Only letters, documents, and gift items up to $100 worth remain exempt from customs duties.
- Indian postal services paused due to unclear processes for collecting and remitting new US tariffs.
- Customers with pre-booked undeliverable parcels can get postage refunds; efforts to resume soon ongoing.