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The Official Secrets Act can’t be an instrument to censor embarrassing media revelations
For more than a century, March 8 has marked International Women’s Day — a global day celebrating the achievements of women and promoting gender equality worldwide. But as we pause to celebrate our many advances, we must also acknowledge how much remains to be done.
India, Russia sign deal on nuclear submarine
India on Thursday sealed a $3-billion deal with Russia for leasing a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years, military sources said.
Names for Lok Pal shortlisted, SC told
Attorney-General K.K. Venugopal informed the Supreme Court on Thursday that names for Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman, have been shortlisted and forwarded to the Selection Committee chaired by the Prime Minister.
Teachers entitled to gratuity, rules SC
The Supreme Court on Thursday altered its judgment and said teachers were entitled to claim gratuity under the Payment of Gratuity Act.
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IAF went for precision strikes in Balakot: official
During the Balakot air strikes, the Indian Air Force (IAF) went in for “clinical precision” and hit the intended targets, a senior defence official said on Thursday.
Odisha forest dwellers seek permanent relief under FRA
A large number of forest dwellers took to the streets in Bhubaneswar on Thursday protesting against alleged tinkering with the Forest Rights Act.
Funding period extended to boost regional air connectivity
The Union Cabinet on Thursday gave its approval for extending the “time and scope” of financial support of Rs. 4,500 crore to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the revival of small airports for the regional connectivity scheme (RCS).
Ethanol production gets a leg-up
To boost sugar mills’ ethanol-production capacity and help them pay off mounting arrears to cane farmers, the Union government has approved ₹3,355 crore in incentives.
Political will is integral to the tackling of India’s hazardous air pollution
Indian Army to undergo major reforms
In a major move, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has approved the first batch of reforms in the Army which include relocation of 229 officers from the Army headquarters, creation of a new post of Deputy Chief for Military Operations and Strategic Planning, and setting up new wings for vigilance and human rights issues.
Large hydro projects get ‘renewable energy’ status
The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved a new hydroelectric policy aimed at boosting the sector, including according large hydro projects the status of renewable energy projects.
Cabinet clears new coal linkage rules
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved new rules that will provide greater coal availability to stressed thermal power projects, based on the recommendations of the Group of Ministers constituted to look into the issue.