Withdraw FIR against Abhisar Sharma: Press Club
The PCI accused the Assam Police of turning a blind eye in not taking cognisance of what the apex court has directed in a similar case pertaining to The Wire editors
Free Movement Regime helps map 42,000 Myanmar nationals since Dec: Biren Singh
N. Biren Singh says Assam Rifles has mapped biometric data of Myanmarese entering India since December. This is under the new Free Movement Regime. He believes this will regulate entry through the border. It will also help control population growth in Manipur. Assam Rifles Director General shared insights on this policy at Manipur University.
Supreme Court issues notices to Centre, Assam govt on plea for re-verification of NRC list
The Supreme Court has responded to a petition filed by the former NRC state coordinator, requesting a reverification of the draft NRC and supplementary list. Notices have been issued to the Centre, Assam government, NRC official, and Registrar General of India.
Vulture conservation campaign with Gram Pradhans rolled out
Guwahati, Aug 22: A conservation education, awareness, and sensitisation campaign was organised at the Chhaygaon Revenue Circle Office in Kamrup District of Assam on August 21 with in pursuit of the objective to achieve zero vulture deaths in the district in the coming years. Regions premier biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak (www.aaranyak.org) in partnership with Chhaygaon [] The post Vulture conservation campaign with Gram Pradhans rolled out appeared first on The Shillong Times .
The Supreme Court of India has intervened to prevent the Assam Police from taking coercive action against senior journalists Karan Thapar and Siddharth Varadarajan. The courts decision follows the issuance of fresh summons under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), a provision addressing acts that endanger Indias sovereignty, unity, and integrity. A bench [] The post Supreme Court halts arrest plans for journalists Karan Thapar and Siddharth Varadarajan by Assam police appeared first on India Legal .
SC Bars Assam Police From Arresting Karan Thapar, Siddharth Varadarajan of The Wire
DIGIPUB flays Assam FIR on Abhisar Sharma, says to criminalise the work of a respected journalist like Abhisar Sharma is nothing less than an attack on press freedom.
SC restrains Assam cops from coercive action against journalist Siddharth Varadarajan and others
NEW DELHI : The Supreme Court on Friday restrained Assam Police from taking any coercive action against senior journalist Siddharth Varadarajan and other journalists, including consulting editor, working with web portal The Wire in connection with an FIR lodged against them over a news article. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi passed the order after senior advocate Nitya Ramakrishnan, appearing for the journalists, said that Assam police was circumventing the earlier orders passed by the court. She said Vardarajan and other journalists, including a consulting, editor have been summoned Friday for recording statements in an old FIR lodged in May and there is apprehension that they may be arrested. The bench, while protecting the journalists, said everyone is expected to follow the law and asked the journalists to join the investigation and file a status report on the next date of hearing. On August 12, the top court had protected Vardarajan and restrained the Assam police from taking any coercive action against him in connection with an FIR lodged against him over an article on Operation Sindoor.
Kerala to set up yarn bank to tackle coir fibre shortage, safeguard jobs of two lakh workers
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a significant intervention to revive Keralas struggling coir sector, the state government has announced the formation of a yarn bank to tackle the acute shortage of coir fibre. Industries and Coir Minister P. Rajeeve said the project, with an allocation of Rs 5 crore, is intended to ensure a steady supply of fibre to units across the state and safeguard the livelihoods of more than two lakh workers, nearly 80 percent of them women. The yarn bank will be jointly managed by the Kerala State Coir Corporation Ltd and the Kerala State Co-operative Coir Marketing Federation Ltd (Coirfed). It will stockpile coir fibre for a year, enabling small and large units to access raw material at affordable rates. Government sources added that the final decision on the location of the yarn bank will be taken shortly, but officials confirmed that it will be established in a region with large-scale coir activity to maximise impact. The announcement comes at a crucial time. Keralas traditional coir industry, which once stood as a global leader, is reeling under the pressure of scarce raw material and soaring fibre prices. According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, there are about 9,000 registered coir product manufacturing units in Kerala, with about 80 per cent concentrated in Alappuzha and the rest in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram. Most of these earlier units depended on fibre sourced locally from Vaikom and Thiruvananthapuram. However, in recent years, fibre extraction in these areas has dwindled, forcing manufacturers to rely heavily on supplies from Tamil Nadu. Over the past 18 months, the cost of fibre has skyrocketed. A year ago, Vaikom coir cost Rs 40 a kilogram. Now it is sold at Rs 5060, but even at that rate it is hard to get. The Anjuthengu coir fibre, once priced at Rs 100Rs 120, is now unavailable even at Rs 180 Rs 200, said Maheshan, who runs a spinning unit in Kollam. The crisis has also weakened Keralas export performance despite rising international demand for coir products such as mats, pith, geotextiles, and other products. In 202324, Indias coir exports were valued at Rs 1,285.11 crore, reaching more than 100 countries, including the US, Australia, EU nations, China, and Japan. But Keralas contribution during the same period was a mere Rs 10.05 crore, according to records from the Directorate of Coir Development. In India, apart from Kerala, coir industries are dominant in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, Odisha, Assam, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. Sources said that any delay in setting up the yarn bank will only strengthen these states, which are already posing tough competition to Kerala in the international market. Exporters warn that unless fibre prices are stabilised, Keralas presence in the sector will shrink further. We can adjust for up to a 10 per cent rise in raw material costs. But if it crosses 2030 per cent, exporters shift to Tamil Nadu or Andhra Pradesh, said Manoj Kumar, an exporter from Cherthala. The fallout has been severe on workers, particularly women in Alappuzhas cooperative spinning units, who are now struggling to find steady employment. Many workers are leaving for construction and daily-wage jobs, as there is no guarantee of work in coir anymore, said Sumathi, a worker in the spinning sector. Ironically, this Onam, Keralaonce proudly known as the land of coconutsis grappling with two coconut-related crises. On one hand, soaring coconut oil prices have forced the government to intervene to ensure an affordable supply in the market. On the other hand, the shortage of coconut fibre has put thousands of coir workers on the brink of losing their livelihood. Government sources said efforts are underway to address both troubles simultaneously, with the yarn bank expected to provide a long-term solution for the coir industry. With this initiative, the state government hopes to restore stability to the coir sector, ensure raw material security, protect exports, and safeguard the future of over two lakh workers in one of Keralas oldest traditional industries. Export data of Coir products 2019-20 : Rs 14.25 crore 2020-21 : Rs 14.13 crore 2021-22 : Rs 17.31 crore 2022-23 : Rs 16.40 crore 2023-24 : Rs 10.05 crore Source: Directorate of Coir Development, Govt of Kerala
Nagaland, Assam CMs Agree on Joint Action in Disputed Area Belt
The decision was taken following discussions between the two leaders in the wake of fresh tensions along the inter-state boundary
Assam to stop issuing Aadhaar cards to those above 18 years
The Assam government has announced sweeping new restrictions on first-time Aadhaar card applications for individuals above 18 years, a move Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma says is aimed at closing avenues for illegal immigrants to secure Indian ...
Assam cabinet gives nod to 600-cr project to skill youths
This step will not only strengthen higher education and research in the region, but also open new avenues of growth, innovation and opportunities for the youth of the northeast, says Assam CM
Assam Man, Who Killed Woman For Refusing To Marry Him, Sentenced To Death
A court in Assam's Dhemaji on Thursday sentenced a man to death for the brutal murder of a college student in 2021. According to officials, the man had killed the woman for refusing his marriage proposal.
Assam CM Himanta decides to stop issuing Aadhaar cards to adults to check infiltrators
GUWAHATI: The Assam government will stop issuing Aadhaar cards to adults, except for people from the Scheduled Castes (SC), the Scheduled Tribes (ST), and the tea garden communities. A Cabinet meeting chaired by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday approved the decision to prevent fraudulent Aadhaar enrollment by illegal migrants. The government said District Commissioners will have the authority to issue Aadhaar cards to adults only in rarest of rare cases. The restriction will not apply for one year to SC, ST, and tea garden communities, during which time enrollment for left-out individuals from these groups will be completed. Sarma said the move comes amid efforts to apprehend illegal Bangladeshi migrants along the international border. For the past year, we have been continuously apprehending illegal migrants. We pushed back seven of them yesterday. We are not sure we can nab all of them, so we want to take some protection to prevent infiltrators from becoming Indian citizens with Aadhaar, he said. Earlier in April, the Assam government had announced a crackdown on Aadhaar cardholders who had not applied for inclusion in the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Sarma had also highlighted that four districtsBarpeta, Dhubri, Morigaon, and Nagaonhad more Aadhaar cardholders than their projected population. Meanwhile, Assam and Nagaland will jointly plant trees at Uriamghat in Golaghat district, where 12,000 bighas of encroached land were recently cleared. The land, near the Nagaland border, is claimed as ancestral land by some Nagaland villagers.
Man sentenced to death for killing college student
DHEMAJI, Aug 21: A local court in Assam on Thursday sentenced a man to death for murdering a woman exactly four years ago for refusing his marriage proposal, officials said. District and Sessions Court Judge Ajay Faglu passed the sentence after the accused was convicted on Wednesday under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code []
No new Aadhar for 18+ in state from Oct
HT Bureau GUWAHATI, Aug 21: In a significant move aimed at preventing illegal infiltration, the Assam Cabinet on Thursday approved a revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Aadhaar enrollment of citizens above 18 years of age, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. Sarma said the move was part of the states broader strategy to curb []
Adokona niam gri renapbaenggipa sak 900 manderangko HYC watpilata
SHILLONG: Assam adoko niam gri songdong achaenggipa manderangko Assam sorkari arikgalengon, Meghalaya adokona maming lekka pancha gri renapbaenggipa manderangko Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC)-ni membor-rang, Byrnihat aro Ratacherra-o donggipa infiltration check gate-rangko nitimsoenba, sak 900-na baten niam gri renapbaenggipa manderangko rime watpilatna manaha ine uiataha. HYC-ni president Roy Kupar Synrem-ni kobor ratimgipa manderangna uiatani gitade, Assam [] The post Adokona niam gri renapbaenggipa sak 900 manderangko HYC watpilata appeared first on The Shillong Times .
No first-time Aadhaar card to be issued for people above 18 yrs in Assam: Himanta
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that individuals over 18 years old will not receive new Aadhaar cards initially, aiming to prevent illegal immigrants from acquiring Indian citizenship. A limited one-month period will be available for those over 18 to apply if they haven't already.
Video: 2 Men Hang Off Earthmover To Stop Eviction Drive In Assam
In Assam's Hojai district, two men were seen clinging onto an earthmover in a desperate attempt to resist a large-scale eviction drive on government land.
Case Against Journalist Abhisar Sharma For 'Ridiculing' Assam, Centre
The Guwahati Crime Branch on Thursday registered a First Information Report (FIR) against journalist and YouTuber Abhisar Sharma on the basis of a complaint filed by a local resident alleging that he had uploaded a video ridiculing both the Assam and
Assam Man Gets Death Sentence For Killing College Student Who Refused Marriage Proposal
Calling it a arest of rare case, the judge said that life imprisonment would not be enough to serve justice
Elements from Bangladesh provoking unrest around Chicken Neck: Assam CM Sarma
Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed concerns about elements in Bangladesh provoking pro-Bangladesh sentiment near the Siliguri corridor, a critical and vulnerable region. He highlighted threatening messages from Jamaat-e-Islami and wall writings promoting allegiance to Bangladesh. Sarma also noted suspicious activities surrounding voter list revisions and illegal settlements, suggesting a conspiracy to weaken India's Chicken Neck.
FIR filed against journalist Abhisar Sharma by Guwahati police
Guwahati Crime Branch files FIR against journalist and YouTuber Abhisar Sharma for video criticising Assam and Union Governments
Assam Stops Issuing Aadhaar To Adults; CM Himanta Cites Saturation, Infiltration Concerns
Assam govt halts Aadhaar cards for adults, except SC, ST, and tea garden communities, citing illegal immigration concerns and 103 percent Aadhaar saturation.
Indian Snake Species Can Still Inject Venom Hours After Death, New Study Reveals
The research team, led by Susmita Thakur from Namrup College in Assam, documented three incidents involving venomous snakes.
No first-time Aadhaar card to be issued for people above 18 years in Assam: CM Himanta
Assam Chief Minister restricts first-time Aadhaar cards for people above 18 to prevent illegal immigration, with exceptions for certain groups
42,000 Myanmarese nationals biometrically mapped under new free movement regime: Assam Rifles Chief
Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera reported that 42,000 Myanmarese nationals entering India have been mapped biometrically since December under the new FMR policy. These individuals, seeking temporary refuge in Northeastern states due to the Myanmar crisis, are monitored and expected to return. Former Manipur CM N.
42,000 Myanmar nationals mapped since December 2024: Assam Rifles
People from across the border stay temporarily in four northeastern States, returning to their country as per the new Free Movement Regime policy, the paramilitary force said
Assam stops Aadhaar for first-time applicants above 18, one-year relief for SC, ST and Tea Tribes
GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday announced that people above 18 years of age will not get first-time Aadhaar cards in the state as a precautionary measure to check illegal immigrants from getting Indian citizenship. Only a one-month window would be given to people above 18 years of age to apply for an Aadhaar card if anyone has not got the same yet, he told reporters after a Cabinet meeting. However, Tea Tribes, SC and ST people above 18 years of age will continue to receive Aadhaar cards for the next one year, he added. The decision to restrict Aadhaar card issuance is seen as part of the efforts to ensure the authenticity of citizens' identities. This move highlights the government's focus on addressing concerns about potential illegal immigration from Bangladesh in the last one year, Sarma said.
The government is pushing domestic mineral security. Exploration has started in Mizoram and Assam. The Centre will consult northeastern states before extraction. The Mines and Minerals Bill, 2025 is a turning point. India aims for self-reliance in critical minerals. The National Critical Mineral Mission is cleared. It will run till 2030-31. Private firms are encouraged to explore abroad.
Assam Bars Aadhaar Cards For Adults Above 18
SC, ST, Tea Garden communities exempted
About 42,000 Cross-Border Entrants Documented in Manipur Since December 2024: Assam Rifles DG
Ex-Manipur CM Biren Singh says influx of outsiders from Myanmar 'real' and 'ongoing'
31 Accused Acquitted in Assams Longest-Running TADA Case After 35 Years
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, AUGUST 21: A milestone was achieved on Wednesday at the special Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) court in Guwahati, where a verdict was given in a 35-year-old case. The court acquitted 31 of the 38 accused, ending one of Assams longest trials under the draconian anti-terror law. The judgement was []
Tribal Groups Call 48-Hour Bandh in Margherita Over Tirap Tribal Belt Row
HT DIGITAL AGARTALA, AUGUST 21: A bandh of 48 hours in Margherita, Tinsukia district, has been declared by a tribal organisation coalition starting 5 a.m. on August 23. The protest is being launched prior to the visit of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on August 24 and is meant to protest the decision of []
Assam Migrant Worker Found Dead Under Mysterious Circumstances in Kerala
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, AUGUST 21: An Assam migrant worker, who worked as a mason in Kerala, was killed under suspicious conditions in Malappuram district on Thursday morning. The victim is Ganesh Roy (33), son of Dinabandhu Roy, of Chot Nilibari village under Runikhata Police Station in Assams Chirang district. Preliminary reports indicate that Roy had []
Meghalaya Voices Frustration Over Assams Delay in Border Talks
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, AUGUST 21: Frustration is mounting in Meghalaya as Assam continues to be slow in announcing the second phase of their vital border talks. Their officials were supposed to carry out a joint inspection of the disputed areas, but till now, Assam has not put forward any date, earning criticism for taking a []
Ex-Manipur CM Biren Singh says influx of outsiders from Myanmar 'real' and 'ongoing'
Former Manipur CM N Biren Singh commended the Assam Rifles for collecting biometrics of individuals illegally entering India from Myanmar, acknowledging the ongoing influx. Assam Rifles DG Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera reported mapping 42,000 entrants since December 2024, assuring they are closely monitored in secure locations. Singh emphasized the Northeast's awareness and proactive measures in addressing the situation.
Protest in Assam tribal council against move to transfer land to corporate houses
Tribal groups in Tinsukia callashutdown on August 24 against the Cabinet decision to let non-tribals settle in the Tirap Tribal Belt
Mizoram expands Chief Minister's Rubber Mission amid Assam border dispute
Tensions escalate between Assam and Mizoram over rubber plantations in the Mamit district, with allegations of Assam forest officials destroying rubber plants. Mizoram approves the second phase of the Chief Ministers Rubber Mission, expanding plantation by 173 hectares. Despite border disputes and past clashes, Mizoram commits to supporting rubber farmers and boosting production through subsidies and expanded plantation areas.
Rupee rises by 6 paise to close at 87.07 against US dollar
Mumbai, Aug 20 (PTI) Rupee pared initial losses and settled on a higher note at 87.07 (provisional) against the US dollar, up by 6 paise on the back of a rise in risk appetite in global markets. Forex traders said easing tensions over trade tariffs and hopes of peace between Russia and Ukraine enthused investors. Moreover, the proposed GST reforms and a recent credit rating upgrade by a foreign agency have bolstered confidence in the Indian economy. Rupee declined in the first half of the day on a positive US dollar and recovery in crude oil prices. However, the domestic
Stock markets log gains for 5th day; Sensex climbs 213 points led by IT shares
Mumbai, Aug 20 (PTI) Benchmark BSE Sensex closed higher by 213 points on Wednesday, extending its rally to the fifth consecutive day on heavy buying in IT shares. The 30-share BSE Sensex climbed 213.45 points or 0.26 per cent to settle at 81,857.84. During the day, it jumped 341.23 points or 0.41 per cent to 81,985.62. The 50-share NSE Nifty edged higher by 69.90 points or 0.28 per cent to 25,050.55. Among Sensex firms, Infosys surged the most by 3.88 per cent, followed by Tata Consultancy Services, which climbed 2.69 per cent. Hindustan Unilever, NTPC, Tata Steel, Tech Mahindra, Eternal
Assam: BVFCL signs five-year fertilizer export deal with Bhutans NSC
Dibrugarh: The Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), a Government of India undertaking under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has signed a five-year Business-to-Business (B2B) agreement with the National Seed Centre (NSC), Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Royal Government of Bhutan, for the export of fertilizers to Bhutan. Under the agreement, BVFCL will supply [] The post Assam: BVFCL signs five-year fertilizer export deal with Bhutans NSC appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Assam cab unions threaten stir after CM Himantas stranger barb
Three associations of cabbies took offence to Himanta Biswa Sarma associating ride-share services with unknown elements
Gaurav Gogoi slams police summons to journalists Siddharth Varadarajan, Karan Thapar
Reacting to Assam Polices summons to the senior journalists on sedition charges, Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said this was not the Assam way.
Zelensky leaves Washington with Trumps security guarantees, but are they enough?
Canberra, Aug 20 (The Conversation) The last time Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the White House earlier this year, he was berated by Donald Trump. On Monday, he returned with European leaders by his side. He emerged with some signs of progress on a peace deal to end Russias war against Ukraine. The presence of the European leaders no doubt had a great impact on the meeting. After Trumps recent summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, they were concerned he was aligning the United States with the Russian position by supporting Putins maximalist demands. We see from Trumps
Stock markets decline in early trade after 4-day rally in-line with weak Asian peers
Mumbai, Aug 20 (PTI) Equity benchmark indices declined in early trade on Wednesday after a four-day rally tracking weak trends in Asian markets. The 30-share BSE Sensex declined 146.64 points to 81,497.75 in initial trade. The 50-share NSE Nifty dropped 47.5 points to 24,933.15. From the Sensex firms, Bajaj Finance, Tata Motors, Trent, Bajaj Finserv, Kotak Mahindra Bank and Tata Motors were among the laggards. However, Eternal, Bharti Airtel, Infosys and NTPC were among the gainers. In Asian markets, South Koreas Kospi, Japans Nikkei 225 index, Shanghais SSE Composite index and Hong Kongs Hang Seng quoted lower. The US markets
Assam Rifles Seize Meth Worth 21 Crore at Mizoram-Myanmar Border
HT DIGITAL AIZAWL, AUGUST 20: Personnel of Assam Rifles on Monday confiscated 6.86 kg of methamphetamine, worth 70,700 tablets, valued at approximately 21 crore, at a border checking point in Zokhawthar, the MizoramMyanmar border, officials said. The operation was initiated based on specific intelligence reports, Assam Rifles stated in a press release issued on Tuesday. []
Assam: Nurses Protest Arrest in GMCH Newborn Death Case
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, AUGUST 20: After the demise of a newborn at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Bhangagarh Police arrested sister-in-charge Bhanupriya Mishong on Tuesday evening (August 19). The move was ordered by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Shortly afterwards, Mishongs fellow employees converged at Bhangagarh Police Station in protest at what they []
Detect, deport all illegal migrants: NESO to CM
KHADC MDCs call for meeting with traditional heads to prevent influx from Assam, Bangladesh By Our Reporter SHILLONG, Aug 19: The North East Students Organisation (NESO) on Tuesday urged the MDA government to seal the Meghalaya-Bangladesh border and adopt stricter measures for the immediate detection and deportation of illegal migrants. In a memorandum submitted to [] The post Detect, deport all illegal migrants: NESO to CM appeared first on The Shillong Times .
Assam study finds cobra, krait can inject venom after death
Such envenoming has largely been reported in the cases of rattlesnakes, copperheads, spitting cobras, and the Australian red-bellied black snakes
Assam job panel to drop controversial question on Manipur crisis
The Meitei Heritage Society had objected to a malicious question in an examination conducted by the Assam Public Service Commission on August 8 to recruit agricultural development officers
Assam Rifles and IIIT Manipur collaborate to enhance drone technology for defence and security
Assam Rifles and IIIT Manipur are collaborating to enhance defence capabilities through drone technology, signing an MoU and launching advanced training for personnel. This initiative aims to bolster surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistics in light of recent attacks involving drones equipped with explosives in Manipur. The collaboration addresses the need for hi-tech warfare solutions in the region.
A Meitei organization in Manipur reported that the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) has cancelled a question about the Manipur crisis from a recent exam after the organization claimed it maligned their community. The APSC stated that the question papers were set by external educators and couldn't be pre-screened. The organization has expressed its appreciation for the APSC's action.
Lok Sabha passes Bill to set up IIM in Guwahati
This fulfils a long-standing demand in Assam, and provides the northeast with its second IIM after Shillong, says Education Minister; financial grant of 550 crore has been allocated for IIM Guwahati
Assam CM flags influx of dubious people, warns of arrests over fundamentalist activities
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma states the government is monitoring visitors from Mumbai and Kerala. Authorities will arrest individuals crossing the line. Sarma alleges disruption during the NRC update. He claims anomalies were found and will be submitted to the Supreme Court. Sarma also alleges Gaurav Gogoi's NGO received funding from George Soros.
Assam: BVFCL and Bhutans National Seed Centre Ink 5-year fertilizer supply deal
Guwahati: Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL) has signed a five-year Business-to-Business (B2B) agreement with the Bhutans National Seed Centre (NSC) for the export of fertilizers. As per the agreement, BVFCL will supply Urea, Suphala (NPK), SSP, MOP, and Borax to Bhutan, ensuring continued and timely access to essential agricultural inputs and supporting the countrys [] The post Assam: BVFCL and Bhutans National Seed Centre Ink 5-year fertilizer supply deal appeared first on NorthEast Now .
Dead cobras, kraits can still envenom hours after death: Assam study finds
GUWAHATI: Dead cobras and kraits can also envenom, experts in Assam have found during case studies. While there are cases worldwide of envenoming by dead rattlesnakes, Assam has, for the first time anywhere, recorded three cases of envenoming, two involving dead cobras and one involving a dead krait. An article titled Death to bite: a case report of dead snake envenoming and treatment was published in the international journal Frontiers in Tropical Disease on Tuesday. Dr Susmita Thakur (zoologist), Dr Surajit Giri (anaesthesiologist), Dr Gaurav Choudhary, Dr Hemen Nath (both paediatricians) and Dr Robin Doley (professor of biology) are its authors. In the first case, a 45-year-old man encountered a black-coloured snake eating chickens in his house in Sivasagar district and beheaded it. However, while trying to discard the body, he was bitten by the snake. The bite was followed by severe pain at the site, radiating up to his shoulder. He reported to the nearby Demow Rural Community Health Centre and had multiple episodes of vomiting on the way. The patient was conscious and responsive to verbal commands. Examination of the bite site revealed blackening. The snake was identified to be a monocled cobra based on the photograph shown. The pain significantly decreased following treatment. The patient did not develop any symptoms of neurotoxicity, the article said. In the second case, a farmer, also in Sivasagar, had unknowingly crushed a monocled cobra with the wheels of his tractor. Upon dismounting his vehicle at the end of work, he was bitten by the snake that was presumed to be dead. He started feeling pain at the bite site and rushed to the nearby Demow Rural Community Health Centre. The patient complained of severe pain, progressive swelling, and noticeable colour change at the bite site. Based on the photograph shown by the patient and the vital signs, envenoming was suspected and 20 vials of polyvalent antivenom were immediately administered, the article said. Although he did not develop any signs of neurotoxicity, severe cytotoxicity led to an ulcer. Following treatment, he was discharged on the 25th day and the wound was completely healed by the 65th day. In the third case, a black-coloured snake had entered a household in a village in Kamrup district, prompting the owners to kill it and discard the body in their backyard. However, out of curiosity, a neighbour tried to hold its head and was envenomed on the little finger of his right hand. Since there was no pain or swelling, and considering the snake was already dead, he and his family members ignored the bite. However, the victim later started to feel uneasiness, sleeplessness, and body pain and gradually became restless. He began experiencing difficulty in swallowing and developed drooping eyelids. Finally, he reported to a nearby community hospital the next day and was discharged in good health on the 6th day following treatment. The snake was identified as a black krait. Dr Giri, widely known as the Snake Doctor, told this newspaper these are the first such recorded cases of envenoming by dead cobras and kraits anywhere in the world. Mammals are warm-blooded animals. When they are killed or beheaded, they, as well as their brain, will be dead within six to seven minutes as the supply of blood and oxygen to the brain stops, he explained. Snakes are cold-blooded creatures with slow metabolism. Even if they are decapitated or killed, their brain may still be active up to four to six hours and they can reflexively bite if someone touches their head or neck. We call it reflex action, he added.
New Delhi [India], August 19 (ANI): The INDIA bloc on Tuesday picked former Supreme Court Judge, Justice B. Sudershan Reddy as its candidate for the upcoming Vice Presidential elections slated to take place on September 9. The announcement was made by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in the national capital following the INDIA bloc meeting. B Sudershan Reddy will file his nomination for the Vice Presidential polls on August 21. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said, He will nomination on August 21. Tomorrow, all opposition parties MPs are meeting in the central hall at 1 oclock. TMC MP Derek OBrien said, All
Assam CM Expresses Concern Over Visit Of Strange People
The CM warns of stern action; Assam crime branch summons two journalists Siddharth Varadarajan and Karan Thapar
Days after SC relief, The Wire journalists summoned in sedition case
Nearly a week after the Supreme Court protected The Wire from any coercive action by Assam Police, the Guwahati Crime Branch on Monday, August 18, summoned founding editor Siddharth Varadarajanand senior journalist Karan Thapar in connection with a fresh sedition case. While an earlier summons was issued to Varadarajan on August 12, Thapar received an Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Gauhati HC questions Assam govt decision of transferring 'entire district' to a private company
Gauhati High Court is surprised by land allocation to a cement company in Dima Hasao. The court questions the grant of 3,000 bighas in a Sixth Schedule area. Justice Medhi seeks policy details from North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council. The court emphasizes tribal rights and environmental concerns. The cement company claims the land is barren.
New Delhi [India], August 19 (ANI): Samajwadi Party chief and Lok Sabha MP Akhilesh Yadav on Tuesday took a swipe at the Centre, suggesting that the government was avoiding questions on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar and instead holding a special discussion on Indias space programme. While congratulating Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla for his Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Yadav said the government might be looking at the stars to decide when to allow a debate on the SIR. Shubanshu Shukla, his family, and whoever is involved in the mission, congratulations to them,
Journalists bodies condemn sedition charges against Siddharth Varadarajan, Karan Thapar of The Wire
The bodies alleged that the Assam Police unleashed vindictive actions against the journalists through the Crime Branch
'Strange people' visiting Assam, will be arrested if they 'cross limits': CM Himanta Sarma
GUWAHATI: Claiming that some strange people from different parts of the country were visiting Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said they will be arrested if they cross limits. Speaking to reporters at the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), where he went on Monday night following the death of a newborn , Sarma said these people were advocates from Mumbai and Kerala. We are keeping a track of them. They had also come when the NRC was being updated in the state, and spoiled the entire exercise. During the NRC process, the government did not pay much attention to these visits, but now we are keeping an eye on each one of them, and if they step beyond the limits of the rules, they will be arrested, he said. We will not tolerate any fundamentalist activities or politics on sensitive issues, whether they come from Kerala, Mumbai or Delhi. These are fundamentalists who promote and protect activities of certain sections, he added. A four-day-old infant died at the GMCH on Monday morning after being found hanging from the wires of a medical device inside the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). With the newborn's family members alleging negligence against the on-duty staff, the state government ordered an inquiry into the incident. Assam CM launches portal through which indigenous people can apply for arms licences Sarma said it was a case of negligence, and an inquiry committee has been constituted to take strong and effective action against those found to be guilty. The CM, meanwhile, alleged that during the NRC process, hese people created false records by taking advantage of the same names of individuals and entering the names of those who did not deserve to be on the list. He claimed that the creation of false kins of people who already lived in the state from before had happened due to the rain of some individuals, like social activist Harsh Mander. These issues have come to light now. During the last five years, we have found many such anomalies, and we are now ready to submit the same to the Supreme Court, he said. Sarma said a team from the BBC had visited Uriamghat, the place where the largest eviction drive took place recently, but we did not allow them to enter the forest area. We had made it absolutely clear that to enter the forest, one would need prior permission. We are taking actions bravely this time, and we will not allow any individual or group to take advantage of these issues, he said. Without naming Congress MP Gourav Gogoi directly, Sarma alleged that his Farm2Food NGO was funded by Hungarian-American investor George Soros, and stated that the initial funding for the University of Science of Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) also needs to be examined. I am saying this directly, and they can file a case against me. A lot of politics involving Assam is being carried out. I did not realise this earlier as I was the health minister, but now with increased cooperation of the Centre, these matters come to our notice and we can take immediate action, he said. Sarma alleged that AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal and Jamat-Ulema-i-Hind leader Mehmood Madani promised to build homes for those affected during the Kokrajhar violence in 2013-14, but hey did not do so with their own money but with funding from outside. The CM said the efforts of the state government to evict encroachment will continue, and both the Supreme Court and the Gauhati High Court have already given necessary orders in this direction. CM Himanta says Assam has many bogus voters, backs SIR
Speech, Hearing Impaired Teen Allegedly Gang-Raped In Assam, 4 Arrested
Four people, including a minor, have been arrested for allegedly gang-raping a 14-year-old speech and hearing impaired girl inside an autorickshaw in Assam.
Rahul Gandhi begins third day of his Voter Adhikar Yatra from Gaya, Bihar
Gaya (Bihar) [India], August 19 (ANI): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday commenced the third day of his Voter Adhikar Yatra in Bihar from Gaya, continuing his 16-day campaign to highlight alleged voter suppression and electoral manipulations by the BJP and Election Commission of India (ECI) through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Meanwhile, The Election Commission on Sunday refuted any claims of vote theft and electoral roll manipulation, while addressing a press conference in the national capital. The Poll body has asked the Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha to submit a signed affidavit
The Gauhati High Court has questioned the Assam government's transfer of 3,000 bighas of land in Dima Hasao to Mahabal Cements, calling the allotment extraordinary. The court directed the NCHAC to provide records of the decision, as petitioners allege unlawful evictions and environmental concerns due to the land's ecological significance. The court will examine the allotment process further.
Assam CMs Unknown Drivers Remark Sparks Clash With Cab Unions
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, AUGUST 19: A political controversy has broken out in Assam following Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarmas Independence Day comments, where he termed taxi service driversespecially those employed by Ola and Uberunknown. The remark has invited strong condemnation from cab drivers organisations throughout the state. Standing by his statements, Sarma made it clear []
Clash Erupts on Assam-Meghalaya Border Over Disputed Power Poles
HT DIGITAL GUWAHATI, AUGUST 19: Tension erupted on Monday in Maikhuli village, Ri-Bhoi district near the Assam-Meghalaya border after the local villagers removed electric poles installed by the Assam State Electricity Board (ASEB) allegedly inside Meghalayas territory without permission. The matter escalated further when an Assam group came to the location and clashed with the []
Rupee rises 19 paise to 87.20 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Aug 19 (PTI) The rupee appreciated 19 paise to 87.20 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday, reflecting the optimism around domestic reforms and equities, though external risks remain elevated. Forex traders said the rupee is holding firm at current levels, tracking the recent rally in domestic equities after sweeping tax reforms announced by PM Narendra Modi. Moreover, suspected RBI intervention and cautious optimism around the Ukraine-Russia conflict supported investors sentiments. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 87.24 against the US dollar, then touched 87.20, registering a gain of 19 paise over its
Trump begins planning for Putin-Zelenskyy meeting while affirming US help with security guarantees
WASHINGTON August 19, 2025 (AP) President Donald Trump said Monday hes begun arrangements for a face-to-face meeting between Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss a pathway to end Russias invasion of Ukraine, while affirming that the U.S. would back European security guarantees aimed at preventing Moscow from reinvading its neighbor once the current conflict ends. Details of the security guarantees and Trumps efforts to arrange peace talks were still evolving as an extended meeting among Trump, Zelenskyy and other European leaders wrapped up at the White House. But as they emerged from their talks, the leaders expressed guarded
Gaya Ji (Bihar), Aug 19 (PTI) Asserting that vote chori is an attack on Bharat Mata, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday warned the chief election commissioner and the two election commissioners of stern action when the INDIA bloc forms government. Intensifying his attack on the Election Commission, Gandhi also said the whole country would ask the poll body for an affidavit and if given time, his party would bring out the vote chori in every assembly and Lok Sabha constituency. The fresh attack on the EC by the Congress leader came a day after CEC Gyanesh Kumar served a
Bill in LS to tag IIM-G 'institute of national importance'
The government introduced the Indian Institutes of Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in Lok Sabha to grant IIM-Guwahati the status of an institution of national importance. This move follows a Memorandum of Settlement aimed at Assam's development.
NCHDAC directed to place allotment policy before court
GUWAHATI, Aug 18: The Gauhati High Court has slammed the Assam government for allotting 3,000 bighas of land to a private cement factory in the states tribal-majority Dima Hasao district, and observed whether this is a joke. The court directed the North Cachar Hills District Autonomous Councils (NCHDAC) standing counsel to obtain and place before []
Meitei organisation seeks clarification from APSC over Manipur crisis question
IMPHAL/GUWAHATI, Aug 18: Manipur-based Meitei Heritage Society (MHS) has requested the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) to issue a clarification regarding a question related to the Manipur crisis that was allegedly included in the recently held Agricultural Development Officer Examination. In a statement on Monday, MHS said a mischievous question on the Manipur crisis to []
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma slams Cong for obstructing laying of IIM-G bill in Parl
GUWAHATI, Aug 18: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday criticised the Congress for allegedly obstructing the introduction of a bill in Parliament to set up an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Guwahati by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Today, the anti-Assam attitude of the Congress has once again been exposed in Parliament. When []
4-day-old infant dies in GMCH, govt forms inquiry panel
GUWAHATI, Aug 18: A four-day-old infant died at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) here on Monday morning after being found hanging from the wires of a medical device inside the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). With the newborns family members alleging negligence against the on-duty staff, the Assam government ordered an inquiry into the []
Assam govt, Army deliberate on furthering cooperation, welfare measures in state
GUWAHATI, Aug 18: The Assam government on Monday held discussions with a delegation of the Indian Army to deepen cooperation, strengthen welfare measures and foster a spirit of service and patriotism among the states youth, Chief Secretary Ravi Kota said. The issues taken up during the discussion ranged from proposal to increase existing quota for []
2nd phase of eviction at Rengma forest begins
GOLAGHAT, Aug 18: The Assam government on Monday started the second phase of eviction inside Rangma reserve forest in Golaghat district to remove encroachments from around 26 hectares of land, displacing 41 families, an official statement said. The administration had completed a five-day first phase of the massive eviction drive at Rengma in Uriamghat along []
Is This A Joke: 3,000 Bighas Of Land For Cement Firm Outrages High Court
A video of a court proceeding of Gauhati High Court that was live streamed, has gone viral on social media where the court is heard raising concern over the allotment of nearly 3,000 bighas of land in Assam's Dima Hasao district to a cement company.
Newborn dies after falling from Assam hospital bed, probe ordered
The infant was admitted to the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital for treatment of jaundice
Adani says No Connection, amid HC frustration over 3,000 bigha allotment
Guwahati: The Gauhati High Court has slammed the Assam government for allotting 3,000 bighas of land to a private cement factory in the states tribal-majority Dima Hasao district, and observed whether this is a joke. The court directed the North Cachar Hills District Autonomous Councils (NCHDAC) standing counsel to obtain and place before the court Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Rahul Gandhi trying to create chaos in India by any means: Assam CM Himanta
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Sarma accused Gandhi of creating chaos in India. He alleged Congress supported Pakistan in parliament. Sarma mocked Assam Congress President Gaurav Gogoi. He addressed ongoing eviction drives. Sarma expressed concerns about the future of Assamese people. He mentioned the term 'Miya' and its association with Bengali-speaking Muslims.
3,000 bighas? Is this a joke: Gauhati HC baulks at land allotment to cement firm in tribal district
GUWAHATI: The Gauhati High Court, in a hearing last week, expressed shock over the allotment of 3,000 bighas (around 4 square kilometers) of land to a private cement company in Assams Dima Hasao district. 3,000 bighas? What is going on? 3,000 bighas allotted to a private company? Justice Sanjay Kumar Medhi said during a recent hearing, a video of which has gone viral on social media. When G Goswami, counsel for Mahabal Cements, argued, Its a barren land, Justice Medhi retorted, We know how barren is NC Hills. 3,000 bighas? What kind of a decision is this? Is this some kind of a joke or what? At this, the counsel said, We need it, but the judge responded, Your need is not the issue. Public interest is the issue. A batch of petitions has been filed by local villagers resisting eviction. The company has also filed one seeking protection, alleging that miscreants were interfering with its operations. Dima Hasao, a hill district, is administered by the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The BJP-ruled council approved the land allotment. In its order of August 12, the court said that a cursory glance at the case revealed the land sought to be allotted was about 3,000 bighas, which itself appeared to be extraordinary. It directed the council to produce relevant records, including the policy under which such a large tract of land could be allotted to a factory. The aforesaid direction has been given by taking into account that the district is a Sixth Schedule district under the Constitution of India where the priority has to be given to the rights and interest of the tribal people residing there, the order said. The court noted that the area in question, Umrangso, is recognised as an environmental hotspot with hot springs, migratory bird stopovers and wildlife.
Assam: Second phase of eviction at Rengma forest begins
Golaghat: The Assam government on Monday started the second phase of eviction inside Rangma reserve forest in Golaghat district to remove encroachments from around 26 hectares of land, displacing 41 families, an official statement said. The administration had completed a five-day first phase of the massive eviction drive at Rengma in Uriamghat along the Assam-Nagaland Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
North East Students' Organisation demands for policy to deal with illegal migrants, refugees
GUWAHATI: The North East Students Organisation (NESO) on Monday urged the Centre to formulate a comprehensive policy to deal with the problems of illegal migrants and refugees. In a memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after holding protest demonstrations across the region, NESO said a great part of the present problem facing the Northeast was relating to the unabated influx of illegal migrants that resulted in a serious demographic change. The continued influx of refugees and undocumented migrants from different countries has created a sense of insecurity and apprehension among the indigenous people that their culture, tradition, political identity, control over land and existence will be swallowed by the outsiders, the memorandum read. According to NESO, the unguarded and porous international border has been used by militant fundamentalist groups to infiltrate into the region, thereby further threatening the existence of indigenous people. There is every reason to believe that there are already a considerable number of fundamentalist groups operating in the NortheastThe region is presently facing an acute economic crisis because of the burgeoning population. There is low per capita income while poverty is on the rise. The problem of unemployment is also on the rise, NESO said. The student body asked the Centre to not view it as a humanitarian problem but a security problem. Time has come to deal with it assertively with renewed and effective bilateral relations with the neighbouring countries, it stressed. NESO suggested the extension of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to the whole of Northeast. An offshoot of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, ILP is an official travel document that an outsider is required to carry while visiting the protected states of Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh for a limited period. Further, NESO urged the Centre to prepare a register of citizens. It demanded the early resettlement of Chakma and Hajong refugees of Bangladesh at any place outside the Northeast. These refugees are settled in Arunachal. it is observed that their prolonged settlement and the initiative of the Government of India to grant Indian citizenship and voting rights to these refugees has been strongly resented by the indigenous people of the state as it has not only created demographic imbalances but a serious political implication, NESO wrote in the memorandum. The other demands include special constitutional safeguards for the indigenous people of Tripura, Meghalaya and Assam; and constitution of a special commission to undertake extensive revision of electoral roll aimed at detecting and deleting the names of foreigners and illegal immigrants within a stipulated time.
Election Commission begins groundwork for special voter list revision in Assam
Ahead of assembly elections, the Election Commission directs Assam's booth-level officers to identify voters over 100 years old and households with 10+ voters for electoral roll revision by August 20. Chief Minister Sarma supports the exercise, aiming to rectify inflated voter lists in riverine areas by linking them with Aadhaar.
INDIA bloc leaders to meet at Kharges residence to discuss joint VP candidate
New Delhi, Aug 18 (PTI) Opposition leaders will meet at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharges residence here on Monday evening to discuss a joint candidate for the vice-presidents post. Defence Minister and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rajnath Singh has also reached out to the leaders of some opposition parties, including Kharge, who is the leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha, for unanimously electing the new vice-president. Sources said the opposition wants to field a non-political face who has national standing and stature for the second-highest constitutional position in the country. The sources said senior DMK leaders have proposed
Gold trades flat at Rs 1,00,920/10 g, silver climbs Rs 1,000
New Delhi, Aug 18 (PTI) Gold prices remained flat at Rs 1,00,920 per 10 grams in the national capital on Monday, according to the All India Sarafa Association. On Saturday, the precious metal of 99.9 per cent purity had declined Rs 500 to close at Rs 1,00,920 per 10 grams from Thursdays closing of Rs 1,01,420 per 10 grams. The Bullion markets were closed on Friday on the countrys 79th Independence Day. In the local market, the yellow metal of 99.5 per cent purity remained flat at Rs 1,00,500 per 10 grams (inclusive of all taxes) on Monday. Gold traded
Sensex jumps 676 pts as GST reform bid sparks rally in auto, consumer durable shares
Mumbai, Aug 18 (PTI) Stock markets rose sharply on Monday, with Sensex closing higher by 676 points and Nifty climbing 1 per cent on heavy buying in auto and consumer durables stocks, buoyed by plans for big bang reforms in the GST regime by Diwali. The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 676.09 points or 0.84 per cent to settle at 81,273.75. During the day, it zoomed by 1,168.11 points or 1.44 per cent to 81,765.77. The 50-share NSE Nifty climbed 245.65 points or 1 per cent to end at 24,876.95. Intra-day, it surged 390.7 points or 1.58 per cent to 25,022.
I'm A Powerful Leader: Himanta Sarma On Gaurav Gogoi's 'Secret Phone' Claim
Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi alleged that the state's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has a 'secret phone' to contact the former's party in times of crisis.
