Data reveals that **more than 77% of all illegal mining FIRs in Rajasthan were filed in districts within the Aravalli mountain region, despite it having relatively fewer mining leases and lower mineral production than other areas. This highlights the intensity of illegal extraction activities in one of India’s most ecologically sensitive landscapes, which spans much of the state. Environmentalists warn that any changes to the legal definition or protection of the Aravalli range could further exacerbate rampant violations. The trend underscores ongoing environmental and regulatory challenges in curbing unlawful mining and safeguarding the ancient hills. (PC: PTI)

Indian intelligence agencies have issued a high alert ahead of the 26 January Republic Day, warning that Khalistani terrorist outfits and Bangladesh-based terror groups may attempt to target Delhi and other major cities across the country. According to sources, Punjab-based gangsters are increasingly being used as foot soldiers by radical handlers abroad, establishing operational links with extremist networks active in Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. In response, authorities have heightened security measures and conducted mock anti-terror drills at sensitive locations like Red Fort and Chandni Chowk to improve preparedness and response. The alert underscores the emphasis on ensuring safety during the 77th Republic Day celebrations. (PC: PTI)

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has imposed a ₹22.2 crore fine on IndiGo Airlines following widespread flight disruptions in early December. The action came after an inquiry found serious operational and crew management failures, leading to mass cancellations, delays, and passenger inconvenience across several airports. The regulator also issued warnings to IndiGo’s senior management and highlighted violations related to duty time limits and operational preparedness. IndiGo stated that it has processed refunds, offered alternative arrangements to affected passengers, and taken corrective measures. Flight operations have since returned to normal, according to the airline. (PC: NDTV)

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the permanent building of the Calcutta High Court’s Jalpaiguri Circuit Bench on Saturday, urging Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to safeguard the Constitution, democracy and judiciary. Banerjee expressed concern over citizens allegedly being wrongly targeted by investigative agencies, calling on the CJI to protect the people and uphold democratic rights. She also stressed that the judiciary must remain free of casteism, religionism, and media trial pressures. The event marks a milestone in expanding justice access for North Bengal residents. (PC: ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train from Malda Town in West Bengal. The train will connect Howrah with Kamakhya in Guwahati.   “This train will make long journeys faster, safer, and more comfortable,” the Prime Minister’s Office said. The sleeper train is fully air-conditioned and offers modern berths, clean linen, and advanced safety systems. It can reach 180 kmph but will run at 120–130 kmph.   The service is expected to cut travel time by 2.5 hours and boost tourism in eastern India.

The first commercial flights carrying Indian nationals from Iran arrived in Delhi late Friday amid recent unrest. The flights were regular services and not part of an evacuation operation. Several returnees described disrupted daily life due to internet shutdowns and street protests. “There was no internet and protests were dangerous,” one national said, adding that families could not be contacted. Another said protesters blocked roads and caused brief trouble. The Indian government had earlier advised against non-essential travel. The Indian Embassy in Tehran issued advisories and stayed in contact with citizens as the situation gradually stabilised. (PC: NDTV)

The Enforcement Directorate filed a charge sheet against Al-Falah University chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui and the family-run Al-Falah Charitable Trust, attaching assets worth ₹139 crore including 54 acres of campus land. The probe links to the November 10 Red Fort terror attack where Al-Falah Medical College doctor Umar-un-Nabi conducted a suicide bombing killing 11 people. ED alleges the university generated ₹415 crore through fraudulent accreditation claims. Investigations revealed family-controlled firms received university contracts, undisclosed related-party transactions, and fund diversion for land acquisition. Siddiqui's children allegedly hold British nationality, with overseas entities established in the UK. The case connects to a wider white-collar terror module investigation. (PC: ANI)

A Mumbai to Krabi IndiGo flight (6E 1085) descended into chaos after the pilot refused to operate the plane, citing that his duty hours had expired, leading to a delay of over three hours before departure. Passengers, already aboard, engaged in heated arguments with cabin crew and were seen kicking the aircraft exit door in frustration over the long wait and lack of clear communication. IndiGo said the delay stemmed from the late arrival of the incoming aircraft, air traffic congestion, and crew duty-time limits. Two passengers were declared unruly and deboarded by security, causing further delay before the flight ultimately took off. 

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused BJP-ruled states of mistreating migrant workers from Bengal, claiming they face violence and torture for speaking Bengali outside the state. She highlighted incidents where workers were allegedly attacked, harassed, or even killed after being labeled “illegal immigrants,” sparking protests in Murshidabad and other areas. Banerjee condemned these acts as “inhuman treatment” and vowed support and compensation for affected families. The chief minister’s comments come amid rising tensions ahead of assembly elections, with the migrant issue becoming a politically charged topic in West Bengal’s discourse. (PC: ANI)

Suspected Pakistani drones were sighted hovering over the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and the Ramgarh sector of Samba district in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting Indian security forces to activate anti-drone systems and remain on high alert. The sightings occurred Thursday night as troops monitored aerial movements along the sensitive border, deploying counter-unmanned aerial systems in response. Earlier this week, similar drone occurrences were reported in the region, underlining ongoing border security challenges and concerns over possible surveillance or infiltration attempts. Forces continue vigilance to protect against further incursions.