Important News - 2025-08-10

10 August 2025

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Politics (3)

BRS Accuses Congress State and BJP Central Governments of Urea Shortage and Water Mismanagement in Telangana

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Photo Courtesy: By Arrangement

In Hyderabad, senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leader and former MLA Gandra Venkata Ramana Reddy criticized both the Congress-led Telangana state government and the BJP-led central government for a severe urea shortage impacting farmers during the current Kharif crop cultivation season, exacerbated by recent rainfall. He highlighted the lack of coordination between the governments, noting that despite the BJP holding eight Lok Sabha seats from Telangana, it failed to ensure timely urea supply. Reddy also accused Union Minister and BJP leader Bandi Sanjay of neglecting critical issues such as low water levels in Lower Manair Dam. Furthermore, he stated that the Congress government was not utilizing the Kannepally pump house to distribute water to rain-deficit areas, allowing water wastage, while both parties prioritized defaming BRS over resolving problems. Reddy pointed to the Congress government's alleged use of the Kaleshwaram Commission report to target political opponents and internal BJP conflicts that led to the inclusion of Eatala Rajender in the report. Additionally, he condemned the government's insincere implementation of the promised 42% reservation for backward classes in Telangana.

MHA Affirms L-G's Independent Authority for J&K Assembly Nominations

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Photo Courtesy: The Hindu

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) informed the Jammu and Kashmir High Court that the Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) of the Union Territory possesses independent statutory authority to nominate members to the J&K Legislative Assembly without requiring the 'aid and advice' of the elected government. This clarification came in an affidavit filed on July 24, 2024, asserting that the L-G's nomination powers are distinct from the UT government's functions. The contested nominations—introduced via a 2023 amendment to the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019—allow up to five members: two Kashmiri migrants (including one woman), one from the Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) community, and two women if under-represented. This amendment increased the Assembly's total strength to 119 seats from 114, with 24 seats reserved for PoJK areas. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the amendment's constitutionality was filed by Congress leader Ravinder Kumar Sharma, arguing it could alter government majorities. The High Court sought the Union government's response on October 21, 2024. The MHA countered that the petition was now irrelevant since the J&K Assembly elections (held September-October 2024, results declared October 8) resulted in a National Conference-Congress alliance victory without the feared disruptions. The next hearing is scheduled for August 14, 2024.

Kolkata Police Probe Injury to R.G. Kar Victim's Mother During Nabanna Abhiyaan Protest, FIRs Filed Against BJP MLAs

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Photo Courtesy: PTI

On August 10, 2025, Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma described the injury to the mother of a doctor who was raped and murdered at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital on August 9, 2024, as regrettable. The injury occurred during the 'Nabanna Abhiyaan' protest march on August 9, 2025, organized by the victim's parents to mark the first anniversary of the crime. Verma announced a police investigation into allegations that the injury resulted from police action, including reviews of CCTV, drone, and body camera footage. Five police personnel were injured in the protest. The victim's father alleged that hospital authorities delayed admitting the mother due to state government pressure, but the hospital stated her vital parameters were stable and protocols were followed; she was later discharged. BJP leader and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar, who met the mother, reported she claimed injuries from a police baton charge. Kolkata Police registered FIRs against BJP MLAs Ashok Dinda, Agnimitra Paul, and Kaustab Bagchi for obstructing police duty during the protest, and notices were served to doctors for participating in the unauthorized march.

Festivals (2)

Mysuru Dasara 2025 to Integrate Gandhi Jayanti with Vijayadashami Celebrations

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Photo Courtesy: M.A. Sriram

The 2025 Dasara festival in Mysuru, Karnataka, will highlight Mahatma Gandhi's teachings during its celebrations, as the Vijayadashami procession is scheduled to coincide with Gandhi Jayanti on October 2. Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, in charge of Mysuru district, announced that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will select the chief guest for the inauguration atop Chamundi Hills on September 22. During a Dasara Executive Committee meeting at Mysuru Palace Board, Mahadevappa reviewed preparations, released the 'Nada Habba Dasara 2025' poster, and confirmed that city-wide illuminations would run for 21 days with new innovations. Key decisions included enabling online ticket sales three to four weeks in advance, setting the drone show entry fee at ₹3,000, and introducing an air show. The meeting was attended by Animal Husbandry Minister K. Venkatesh, MLAs Tanveer Sait, G.T. Deve Gowda, T.S. Srivatsa, and Ramesh Bandisidde Gowda, MLC D. Thimmaiah, Karnataka Exhibition Authority Chairman Ayub Khan, Deputy Commissioner Lakshmikant Reddy, Mysuru Zilla Panchayat CEO Yukesh Kumar, City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar, and Superintendent of Police N. Vishnuvardhan.

Andhra Ganesh Samiti Demands Single-Window Permissions and No Fees for Vinayaka Chaviti Starting August 27

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Photo Courtesy: G.N. Rao

The Andhra Pradesh State Ganesh Samiti has urged the state government to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the Vinayaka Chaviti celebrations, which begin on August 27. During a press conference in Vijayawada, the Samiti's honorary president and former Member of Parliament, Gokaraju Gangaraju, called for coordinated efforts among all relevant departments to facilitate the festivities. He announced that a state-level committee, comprising members from every district, has been established to oversee the event. Gangaraju noted that pandals will be set up across Andhra Pradesh—from rural villages to urban centers—for the Ganapati Navaratrulu period. He emphasized the need for a single-window clearance system to issue permissions efficiently, avoiding unnecessary delays. Additionally, Samiti president Chalasani Anjanayelu highlighted that local administrations must collaborate with departments such as police, electricity, medical, and irrigation to provide essential services, including sanitation, power supply, sound systems, route clearance, and cranes for immersion processions. The Samiti also insisted that organizers should not face restrictions on Ganesh idol heights and should be exempt from any permission fees.

World Affairs (2)

Kanthapuram: Humanitarian Duty Drove Nimisha Priya's Reprieve in Yemen Case

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Photo Courtesy: The Hindu

Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar, General Secretary of All India Jamiyyathul Ulama, emphasized that humanitarian duty—not a quest for recognition—drove efforts to secure Indian nurse Nimisha Priya's reprieve from a death sentence in Yemen. Speaking at the valedictory session of the Kerala State Sunni Students Federation's (SSF) State-level Sahityotsav, he detailed how diplomatic channels and Yemeni Sufi scholars facilitated the commutation. Kanthapuram clarified that while others sought credit, his organization acted selflessly. He also reassured India's Muslim community against marginalization fears, stressed education as vital for national progress, and urged collective efforts for societal equality. The event concluded with Malappuram West winning top honors (780 points), followed by Malappuram East and Kozhikode South, among 2,500 participating students.

Vijayawada Protest on August 13 Demands End to U.S. Tariffs and Anti-Farmer Policies

Farmers, workers, and people's organisations have called for a protest on August 13 at Dharna Chowk in Vijayawada, demanding the withdrawal of 50% tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump on Indian exports and opposing domestic policies they label as anti-farmer. Key organisers include trade union leaders Mooli Sambasiva Rao and N.C.H. Srinivas, Andhra Pradesh Tenant Farmers Association State general secretary P. Jamalayya, and Rythu Sangham representatives Malneedi Yellamandar Rao and P.V. Anjaneyulu. They criticized the BJP-led Central Government for policies believed to be more harmful than the repealed farm laws, such as amendments to the Agricultural Market Act that could dismantle the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system and end government procurement. Additional grievances include the scrapping of the Price Stabilisation Fund in the budget, subsidy cuts on fertilizers and farm equipment, and a ban on tractors over ten years old. On international trade, they accused the U.S. of pressuring India to sign a Free Trade Agreement while imposing tariffs, with concerns over the Indian Prime Minister's silence. The protest demands include abandoning FTA talks, repealing new market laws, withdrawing tariffs, and scrapping four labour codes. This event is part of a nationwide 'Quit Corporate' agitation led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, urging farmers, workers, and the public to participate.

Schemes (2)

Telangana CM Orders Drainage Fixes and Trunk Line Plan After Hyderabad Flood Inspection

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Photo Courtesy: NAGARA GOPAL

Recent heavy rains caused severe flooding in Hyderabad, Telangana, leading to waterlogging in low-lying areas. In response, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy made a surprise inspection of affected colonies, including Ameerpet, Buddha Nagar, and Maitrivanam, on a recent Sunday. He assessed the situation with officials from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWS&SB), and HYDRAA, addressing drainage problems and relief measures. At Buddha Nagar, Reddy identified a critical flaw where a drainage line was built higher than the road, ordering immediate rectification. He also addressed illegal parking issues at Gangubai Basti Kunta that obstructed water flow. For long-term flood mitigation, the CM directed the preparation of plans for a special trunk line to prevent recurrent inundation. During the visit, Reddy interacted with residents, including a 7th-grade student named Jaswanth who reported flood damage to his books, and assured permanent solutions. This marked Reddy's first such surprise inspection in the city, with residents expressing satisfaction and some welcoming him with rakhis.

Ponnam Prabhakar Directs Hyderabad Civic Bodies to Formulate Water Management Plan for Rainwater Harvesting and Flood Prevention

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Photo Courtesy: By Arrangement

Transport Minister and Hyderabad District In-charge Ponnam Prabhakar declared rainwater harvesting a critical social responsibility and directed civic bodies to prioritize groundwater recharge. He instructed the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), HYDRAA, and the Hyderabad Water Board to develop a comprehensive water management plan ensuring maximum rainwater absorption. During a review meeting with Mayor Gadwal Vijayalakshmi, Prabhakar assessed flood-prevention measures within Outer Ring Road (ORR) limits, advocating for public awareness drives and potential enforcement to mandate rainwater recharge pits in residential areas. He credited Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy's proactive governance for preventing flood-related casualties and property damage, while acknowledging persistent issues of flash floods and traffic disruptions from intense rainfall. The minister confirmed a master plan is underway for permanent solutions to Hyderabad's decades-long flooding and congestion challenges, pledged 24/7 availability for emergencies, warned against illegal dumping of construction waste in water bodies, and ordered GHMC to combat seasonal diseases. Key attendees included GHMC Commissioner R.V. Karnan, Water Board MD Ashok Reddy, and HYDRAA Chief M.V. Ranganath.

Elections (1)

Fadnavis Dismisses Opposition's EVM Rigging Claims as Fabricated, Cites Mahayuti's 2024 Maharashtra Poll Victory

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis dismissed allegations of election interference as baseless on Sunday, expressing surprise that opposition leaders did not report claims of poll rigging offers to authorities. He accused NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut of fabricating stories, following their assertions that individuals approached them before the November 2024 Maharashtra assembly elections. Pawar stated that two people met him in New Delhi, guaranteeing victory in 160 of 288 constituencies, and involved Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who opposed the proposition. Raut similarly claimed that two individuals met Uddhav Thackeray, promising to manipulate EVMs in 60-65 critical seats. Fadnavis highlighted that no evidence was provided when the Election Commission of India invited demonstrations of EVM vulnerabilities and emphasized the Mahayuti alliance's decisive mandate, where the BJP won 132 seats, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena secured 57, and Ajit Pawar's NCP gained 41 in the 288-member assembly.

📜 One-Line Summary of Today's News

BRS leader Gandra Venkata Ramana Reddy has blamed the Congress-led Telangana government and BJP-led central government for causing a urea crisis during Kharif cultivation, neglecting water management issues like Lower Manair Dam and Kannepally pump house, and failing to implement 42% reservation for backward classes.
Minister H.C. Mahadevappa announced that the 2025 Dasara festival in Mysuru will emphasize Mahatma Gandhi's message by aligning the Vijayadashami procession with Gandhi Jayanti, alongside new features like a ₹3,000 drone show and an air show.
Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar asserted that All India Jamiyyathul Ulama's humanitarian efforts secured Indian nurse Nimisha Priya's death sentence commutation in Yemen, while also addressing community concerns and educational priorities at a Kerala Sahityotsav event.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy conducted a surprise visit to flood-hit areas in Hyderabad, directing immediate drainage rectification and a long-term special trunk line plan to resolve recurring flooding.
The Ministry of Home Affairs asserted that Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant-Governor holds statutory powers to nominate up to five Legislative Assembly members without government consultation, as validated by the 2023 amendment to the J&K Reorganisation Act.
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis rejected allegations of election manipulation by opposition leaders as unsubstantiated, citing their failure to report the claims and the Mahayuti coalition's decisive win in the November 2024 assembly polls.
Telangana Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar mandated GHMC, HYDRAA, and the Water Board to create a comprehensive water management strategy focusing on rainwater harvesting and flood mitigation in Hyderabad, alongside developing a master plan for permanent solutions.
Farmers and workers will protest in Vijayawada on August 13 against U.S. tariffs on Indian exports and domestic policies like amendments to the Agricultural Market Act, as part of a nationwide agitation by Samyukta Kisan Morcha.
Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma initiated an investigation into the injury sustained by the mother of the R.G. Kar rape-murder victim during the August 9, 2025 protest, while FIRs were filed against BJP MLAs for alleged obstruction.
The Andhra Pradesh State Ganesh Samiti has called on the state government to ensure smooth Vinayaka Chaviti celebrations from August 27 through departmental coordination, a single-window permission system, no idol height restrictions, and no fees for pandal organizers.

🎯 MCQs with Explanations

In which country was Indian nurse Nimisha Priya sentenced to death before humanitarian intervention?
Saudi Arabia
Oman
Yemen
Qatar
Explanation: Nimisha Priya faced a death sentence in Yemen.
What permanent solution is being developed to address Hyderabad\'s flooding and traffic congestion issues?
Construction of new satellite towns
Implementation of a city-wide metro expansion
A master plan for flood and traffic management
Relocation of communities from flood-prone zones
Explanation: The Telangana government is preparing a master plan to resolve these long-standing problems.
What percentage of reservation for backward classes has been criticized by the BRS for inadequate implementation in Telangana?
30%
42%
50%
27%
Explanation: The Telangana government\'s commitment to 42% reservation for backward classes has been a key point of contention.
What was the total strength of the J&K Legislative Assembly after the 2023 amendment to the J&K Reorganisation Act?
90 seats
114 seats
119 seats
120 seats
Explanation: The 2023 amendment increased the Assembly\'s total seats from 114 to 119.
As General Secretary of which organization did Kanthapuram coordinate efforts for Nimisha Priya?
Kerala State Sunni Students Federation
All India Jamiyyathul Ulama
Sufi Council of Yemen
Indian Ministry of External Affairs
Explanation: Kanthapuram is the General Secretary of All India Jamiyyathul Ulama.
In which city did the Andhra Pradesh State Ganesh Samiti hold a press conference regarding Vinayaka Chaviti arrangements?
Visakhapatnam
Tirupati
Vijayawada
Amaravati
Explanation: The press conference addressing festival arrangements was conducted in Vijayawada.
At which location during his surprise inspection did Chief Minister Revanth Reddy identify a drainage line built higher than the road?
A) Ameerpet
B) Buddha Nagar
C) Maitrivanam
D) Gangubai Basti Kunta
Explanation: The drainage flaw was specifically noted at Buddha Nagar colony during the inspection.
What key facility did the Andhra Pradesh State Ganesh Samiti demand for Ganesh idol immersion processions?
Additional security personnel
Cranes for transportation
Free medical camps
Temporary shelters
Explanation: Cranes were specifically requested for the immersion processions to ensure smooth execution.
Which specific government policy amendment is criticized in the protest for threatening the Minimum Support Price system?
The Price Stabilisation Fund abolition
Amendments to the Agricultural Market Act
Implementation of the four labour codes
The ban on old tractors
Explanation: Amendments to the Agricultural Market Act are alleged to dismantle the Minimum Support Price system and end government procurement.
Who filed the Public Interest Litigation challenging the 2023 amendment to the J&K Reorganisation Act?
National Conference
Ravinder Kumar Sharma
Ministry of Home Affairs
Lieutenant-Governor of J&K
Explanation: Ravinder Kumar Sharma, a Congress leader, initiated the PIL against the amendment.
Who is the Kolkata Police Commissioner that addressed the probe into the injury during the Nabanna Abhiyaan protest?
A. Sukanta Majumdar
B. Ashok Dinda
C. Manoj Kumar Verma
D. Agnimitra Paul
Explanation: Manoj Kumar Verma serves as the Kolkata Police Commissioner and announced the investigation on August 10, 2025.
Which organizations did Ponnam Prabhakar instruct to prepare a water management plan for rainwater harvesting in Hyderabad?
Telangana State Pollution Control Board and Hyderabad Metro Rail
Central Water Commission and NITI Aayog
GHMC, HYDRAA, and the Water Board
Ministry of Jal Shakti and NDMA
Explanation: Ponnam Prabhakar directed GHMC, HYDRAA, and the Hyderabad Water Board to develop the plan.
Which political parties did the BRS hold responsible for the urea shortage affecting Kharif crops in Telangana?
Congress and AIMIM
BJP and TDP
Congress and BJP
BRS and Congress
Explanation: BRS accused the Congress state government and BJP central government of failing to coordinate on urea supply during the Kharif season.
On what date did the Nabanna Abhiyaan protest occur, marking the anniversary of the R.G. Kar incident?
A. August 9, 2024
B. August 10, 2025
C. August 9, 2025
D. August 10, 2024
Explanation: The protest took place on August 9, 2025, to commemorate the one-year mark of the August 9, 2024 crime.
What is the primary international issue driving the protest in Vijayawada on August 13?
Introduction of new labour codes by India
U.S. imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports
EU sanctions on Indian agricultural products
Chinese investment in Indian infrastructure
Explanation: The protest demands the withdrawal of 50% tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump on Indian exports.

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