Nivedita

The death toll from severe flooding and landslides in Nepal has risen to 151, with 56 individuals still missing. In response to the disaster, the government has announced a three-day closure of schools. The Kathmandu Valley has experienced significant devastation, with 37 fatalities reported and extensive flooding affecting daily life. National highways remain blocked due to landslides, stranding hundreds of people, while over 20,000 security personnel are engaged in rescue efforts. Weather officials attribute the heavy rainfall to a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal, raising concerns about unplanned development exacerbating climate-related risks in the region.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge after he fell ill while addressing a rally in Jammu and Kashmir. While speaking in the Jasrota area of Kathua district, Kharge experienced dizziness and unease. His colleagues helped him into a chair, and after a brief rest, he resumed his speech, expressing his commitment to restoring statehood. Kharge, 83, stated, “I will stay alive until PM Modi is removed from power.” His son later confirmed that Kharge was doing well, with only slightly low blood pressure, emphasizing his father’s resolve and the support from the people.

Udhayanidhi Stalin was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu during a ceremony at Raj Bhavan in Chennai. Alongside him, four other DMK legislators took their oaths as cabinet ministers, including V Senthil Balaji, who recently received bail in a money laundering case. Udhayanidhi, who previously held the position of Minister for Youth Welfare and Sports Development, will also manage the planning and development portfolio. Addressing criticisms, he committed to public service, stating, “I will try my best to take in all the criticism and work diligently for the people.”

In a significant operation in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, security forces killed a terrorist on Sunday, recovering the body from Kog-Mandli. The search for additional terrorists continues, following intelligence about three to four foreign militants in the area. The operation, which began after a joint security team was attacked, has entered its second day. Tragically, a Jammu and Kashmir Police Head Constable lost his life, while two officers were injured. Authorities have assured tight security measures in place to prevent any terror-related incidents ahead of the upcoming elections on October 1.

In a significant announcement for IPL 2025, BCCI's outgoing secretary Jay Shah revealed that players will earn a match fee of Rs 7.5 lakh per game. Additionally, players participating in all matches during a season will receive an extra Rs 1.05 crore on top of their contracts. Each franchise will be allocated Rs 12.60 crore for match fees, marking a substantial incentive for players. This move aims to enhance player engagement and address the trend of international stars leaving the tournament midway due to commitments. The new incentive scheme will also benefit young players, allowing them to earn significantly more than their base salaries.