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Three earthquakes measuring up to magnitude 5.8 struck offshore near Barcelona, Philippines, on October 29, with two occurring 71 seconds apart. By News National Editorial Team Three moderate earthquakes struck offshore waters near Mindanao in the Philippines on October 29, 2026, with the first two tremors occurring just 71 seconds apart. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake sequence included magnitudes 5.4, 5.8 and 5.4. The closely timed tremors drew attention to seismic activity in the eastern Philippine Sea. Three earthquakes recorded within hours The first earthquake, measuring magnitude 5.4, was recorded at 03:17:54 UTC on October 29. A stronger magnitude 5.8 earthquake followed at 03:19:05 UTC, just 71 seconds later. A third earthquake measuring magnitude 5.4 occurred at 07:31:30 UTC. The epicentres were located approximately 110–114 kilometres east-northeast of Barcelona, a municipality in Surigao del Sur province, Mindanao. All three events were listed at a depth of approximately 10 kilometres in the USGS catalogue. Earthquake timeline 03:17:54 UTC: Magnitude 5.4 earthquake. 03:19:05 UTC: Magnitude 5.8 earthquake, 71 seconds later. 07:31:30 UTC: Another magnitude 5.4 earthquake. Why is the Philippines prone to earthquakes? The Philippines is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a vast region surrounding the Pacific Ocean that experiences frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country's geographical position exposes it to complex interactions between several tectonic plates. Their movement, including subduction beneath surrounding plate boundaries, generates seismic activity across the archipelago and nearby ocean floor. Earthquakes in this region are not unusual. However, multiple moderate earthquakes occurring within a short period highlight the importance of continuous seismic monitoring. Were there casualties or damage? The available USGS earthquake catalogue confirms the three events, but does not establish confirmed casualties or major structural damage resulting from this particular sequence. Residents in affected areas should follow official announcements from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) for updates on reported shaking, aftershocks and possible hazards. Authorities advise people to stay away from damaged buildings, secure heavy household objects and follow established earthquake safety procedures. Continued monitoring remains important Although the three earthquakes were moderate in magnitude, their close timing attracted attention from earthquake observers. Scientists monitor such sequences to understand seismic activity and assess potential hazards. However, the occurrence of several earthquakes close together does not automatically indicate that a larger earthquake will follow. The USGS and PHIVOLCS continue to provide earthquake information to help residents and authorities monitor seismic developments. Official sources: United States Geological Survey: https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/map/ PHIVOLCS: https://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/

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Tamil Nadu has announced a five-year upper-age relaxation for government job aspirants, revising eligibility limits for Group I, Group II and other services. By News National Editorial Team Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has announced a five-year relaxation in the upper age limit for candidates applying for government jobs, providing additional time for aspirants preparing for competitive examinations. The state government announced the decision on October 30, 2026, following representations from candidates seeking more opportunities to compete for public-sector positions. According to the government, the additional relaxation will remain in force for five years and will apply over and above the age concessions already available under existing rules. The move is expected to benefit candidates who have been preparing for recruitment examinations but may have crossed the prescribed upper age limit because of delays, limited recruitment opportunities or other circumstances. Revised age limits for Group I services Under the announced changes, the upper age limit for general-category candidates applying for Group I services will increase from 32 to 37 years. For reserved-category candidates, the limit will rise from 37 to 42 years. The relaxation will also cover differently abled candidates. Their upper age limit for Group I services will increase from 42 to 47 years for the general category and from 47 to 52 years for reserved categories. These changes are in addition to the age concessions already available under the applicable recruitment rules. Changes for Group II and Group II-A examinations For Group II and Group II-A services, the upper age limit for general-category candidates will increase from 30 to 35 years. For differently abled candidates belonging to the general category, the limit will rise from 40 to 45 years. The government has stated that reserved-category candidates in these services currently do not have an upper age limit under the applicable rules. The announced relaxation is intended to provide additional opportunities to eligible applicants while retaining the existing category-based provisions. What the decision means for job aspirants Government recruitment examinations in Tamil Nadu attract large numbers of candidates seeking positions in state departments and public services. Age eligibility is an important condition because applicants who cross the prescribed limit may become ineligible even if they have the educational qualifications and examination preparation required for a post. The additional five-year concession could allow some candidates who were previously outside the age limit to apply for eligible vacancies during the period in which the relaxation remains effective. However, the relaxation does not automatically guarantee recruitment or selection. Candidates must still satisfy the educational qualifications, examination requirements, reservation provisions and other eligibility conditions specified in individual recruitment notifications. Applicants should also check the relevant notification issued by the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission or the recruiting department before submitting applications. The precise implementation of the relaxation may depend on the service category and applicable recruitment rules. Five-year period and next steps The state government has said that the relaxation will remain in force for five years. Candidates should follow official announcements to understand the effective dates, applicable recruitment categories and any additional instructions issued by the authorities. The decision is particularly relevant to candidates who have been preparing for state government examinations over several years. It may provide a renewed opportunity to compete for eligible posts without changing the other selection requirements. News National will continue to follow official Tamil Nadu government notifications and recruitment announcements as further implementation details become available.

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HyderabadZomato Delivery Boy Falls into Canal in Madhapur While Arjun Kumar (46) was riding his bike near 

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ASI begins digitising around 750 ancient inscriptions at Tirumala under Bharat SHRI, preserving valuable records of temple history for future research. By News National Editorial Team The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has begun the process of documenting and digitally preserving around 750 ancient inscriptions found within the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple complex at Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh. The initiative is being undertaken as part of the Central Government’s Bharat SHRI (Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions) project, which aims to preserve India's inscriptional heritage and make historical records more accessible. According to reports published on October 27, the ASI's Epigraphy Branch has started work on collecting copies of nearly 600 inscriptions at the temple. Earlier, around 97 inscriptions had already been copied during previous documentation exercises. The complete collection of approximately 750 inscriptions is expected to provide valuable information about the temple's long and layered history. Inscriptions Preserve Centuries of Temple History The inscriptions engraved on the walls and structures of the Tirumala temple are important historical records. They contain references to rulers, royal contributions, donations made by devotees, temple administration, religious practices and the social and economic conditions of different periods. These records can help historians understand how the temple developed over the centuries and how different dynasties contributed to its religious, cultural and economic activities. Some inscriptions are believed to date back to the 10th century, including records associated with the Vaidumba rulers. Inscriptions from the Vijayanagara period, including lengthy Tamil records, are also among the historically significant materials found at the temple. Earlier Documentation and New Collection Work Historical documentation of Tirumala's inscriptions has been carried out in several stages. According to reports, 44 inscriptions from the temple's second enclosure were copied during earlier surveys conducted in 1889, 1904, 1912 and 1916. Another 53 inscriptions from the walls of the sanctum area were copied during 2008–09. The current exercise focuses on documenting the remaining inscriptions so that the wider collection can be preserved in digital form. The copying process uses a traditional impression-making technique. Special paper is placed over an inscription-bearing surface and carefully pressed against the engraved letters. Ink is then applied to produce an impression that captures the inscription's details. The resulting copies can be preserved and scanned for digital documentation. What Is the Bharat SHRI Project? Bharat SHRI stands for Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions. It is an ASI initiative designed to digitise inscription records from different parts of India and make them available through a central digital repository. The official Bharat SHRI portal explains that digitised estampages, transcripts and metadata will help scholars and members of the public study India's historical and cultural heritage. The project is intended to support academic research, historical interpretation and public awareness by making important primary records easier to access. A Valuable Resource for Future Research The digital preservation of Tirumala's inscriptions is expected to benefit historians, epigraphists, researchers and students studying South Indian history. Digitised records can also help protect historical information against the loss or deterioration of physical copies. For Tirumala, the inscriptions are more than engraved records. They provide evidence of the rulers, donors, communities and religious traditions that shaped the temple across generations. The ASI's initiative marks an important step towards safeguarding this heritage and ensuring that the historical records associated with Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple remain available for future generations. Sources: Archaeological Survey of India – Bharat SHRI official portal; Deccan Chronicle report dated October 27, 2026; TV9 Telugu report dated October 29, 2026.

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Dixon Technologies reported a 48.7% fall in Q2 FY27 net profit to ₹344 crore, while revenue increased 46.7% to ₹21,794 crore. By News National Editorial Team Dixon Technologies reported a sharp fall in consolidated net profit for the second quarter of the 2026–27 financial year, even as revenue increased strongly during the period. The company's consolidated net profit declined 48.7% year-on-year to ₹344 crore in the July–September quarter, compared with ₹670 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year. Revenue from operations increased 46.7% to ₹21,794 crore, up from ₹14,855 crore a year earlier, according to the company's reported results. Revenue growth and profitability The increase in revenue indicates strong growth in the company's manufacturing business. However, the rise in sales did not translate into higher net profit. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) increased 6.4% to ₹597 crore from ₹561 crore in the year-ago quarter. The EBITDA margin narrowed to 2.7%, compared with 3.8% in the corresponding period last year. A lower operating margin means that the company generated less operating earnings from each rupee of revenue. Why did net profit decline? A significant factor was the decline in other income, which fell to ₹69 crore from ₹496 crore in the year-ago quarter. The decline in other income affected the company's overall profitability even though revenue and EBITDA increased. Investors will also be watching operating costs, manufacturing margins, product mix and the company's ability to convert higher sales into stronger earnings. What does this mean for the electronics sector? Dixon Technologies is an important participant in India's electronics manufacturing ecosystem. The company manufactures products and components for several consumer-electronics and technology categories. Its financial results are therefore closely watched by investors interested in India's electronics manufacturing growth. The latest results show that expanding revenue does not automatically guarantee higher profits. Margins, costs and other income can significantly influence the final financial performance. Investors should examine the company's full exchange filing and management commentary before making investment decisions. Sources: NDTV Profit: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/business/dixon-tech-q2-net-profit-falls-49-but-beats-estimates-margin-contracts-12258729 IANS: https://ianslive.in/dixon-technologies-q2-profit-falls-49-pc-to-rs-344-crore--20261030165059

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A Russian drone strike on a crowded railway platform in Ukraine's Dnipro killed 15 people, according to Ukrainian authorities. By News National Editorial Team A Russian drone strike on a railway platform in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro killed at least 15 people, according to Ukrainian officials, as the war continued to threaten civilians and critical infrastructure. The attack took place on October 29 at a railway station platform where a commuter train was preparing to depart. The death toll increased on October 30 after an injured person died in hospital. Ukrainian authorities also reported that several injured people remained under medical treatment, including patients in serious condition. What happened in Dnipro? According to Ukrainian officials, a jet-powered drone struck a crowded platform at the city's main railway station. The attack caused casualties among people at the station and disrupted normal railway operations. The railway platform was being used by passengers preparing to travel when the strike occurred. Emergency services responded to the scene and assisted the injured. Other attacks reported Reuters reported that Russian attacks also killed people in other Ukrainian cities, including Chernihiv and Kremenchuk. The attacks affected residential areas and other civilian locations, according to Ukrainian authorities. Ukraine's government condemned the attacks and accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians. Russia has denied intentionally targeting civilians in the conflict. Wider impact on civilians Railway infrastructure remains important to Ukraine's transport network, allowing people to travel between cities and supporting the movement of essential goods. Attacks on stations and railway facilities can disrupt civilian life and create serious risks for passengers, railway employees and emergency responders. The incident has renewed concerns about the protection of civilian infrastructure during the war. Diplomatic developments The attacks came amid a fragile local ceasefire arrangement in the Kherson region, which was intended to facilitate humanitarian operations. The wider conflict, however, remains active, and the latest incident demonstrates the difficulty of maintaining local agreements while military operations continue elsewhere. International attention is likely to remain focused on civilian protection and diplomatic efforts to reduce the violence. Sources: Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russian-drone-attack-train-station-kills-13-ukraines-dnipro-2026-10-29/ Ukrainska Pravda: https://www.pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2026/10/30/8060394/ ABC News: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-30/russian-drone-strike-kills-at-least-14-at-rail-platform/107325816

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AU Small Finance Bank is investigating a potential data leak involving a third-party Salesforce platform holding limited vehicle-loan customer data. AU Small Finance Bank Investigates Potential Customer Data Leak Involving Salesforce Platform By News National Editorial Team AU Small Finance Bank is investigating a potential customer-data exposure involving a third-party software platform managed and hosted by Salesforce, according to a statement issued on October 30. The bank said the platform held limited information relating to its vehicle-loan customers. It also stated that its own banking systems remained unaffected and that normal banking services continued to operate. The investigation follows claims by a hacking group that it had accessed information associated with the bank and threatened to publish the data. What information is allegedly involved? The hacking group, identified in reports as ScarlettGroup, claimed that the compromised information included customer identification documents, loan applications, financial records and other internal data. However, these claims have not been independently verified. The bank has not publicly confirmed the number of customers potentially affected or established whether the Salesforce platform was the source of all the data claimed by the group. The distinction is important: a criminal group's allegation does not establish that every claimed record was accessed or stolen. What did the bank say? The bank said it was investigating the potential leak and emphasised that its own systems were unaffected. It also said that banking services continued normally. The situation highlights the cybersecurity risks associated with third-party service providers. Banks and other financial institutions frequently use external software platforms for customer management, communications and operational support. A security incident involving a third-party provider can raise questions about data access controls, vendor oversight and customer privacy even when the bank's core banking systems remain secure. What should customers do? Customers should remain alert to suspicious calls, emails and messages claiming to offer loan services or demanding confidential information. People should never share OTPs, passwords, card details or banking credentials with unknown callers. Customers concerned about their information should contact the bank through its official website or verified customer-service channels. The bank's investigation and any further disclosures will be important in determining whether personal data was exposed and what protective steps may be required. Sources: ThePrint: https://theprint.in/tech/au-small-finance-bank-probes-potential-data-leak-from-saas-platform-after-hacker-group-claims-breach/3086172/ Business Standard: https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/au-small-finance-bank-probes-potential-data-leak-salesforce-platform-126103000722_1.html

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Hyderabad Police arrest three for supplying mule bank accounts to cyber fraudsters in a case involving 83 accounts and ₹10.04 crore. Hyderabad | October 31, 2026 Hyderabad City Police have arrested three persons for allegedly supplying mule bank accounts to cyber fraudsters in exchange for ₹20,000 to ₹25,000 per account kit. Two other accused are reportedly absconding. The arrests were made by the Hyderabad City Police Task Force, Charminar Zone, in coordination with Attapur Police. The investigation has uncovered a network involving 83 mule bank accounts across 22 bank branches. Of these, 11 accounts have reportedly been linked to 14 cyber fraud transactions involving approximately ₹10.04 crore across multiple states. How the Mule Bank Account Network Operated According to the investigation, the accused allegedly arranged bank accounts and supplied their account kits to cybercriminals in return for money. Each account kit reportedly fetched between ₹20,000 and ₹25,000. Such account kits can include bank passbooks, ATM cards, SIM cards linked to bank accounts and other banking credentials. These accounts are allegedly used by cybercriminals to receive money collected from unsuspecting victims. Investigators reportedly found that the network involved accounts opened across multiple bank branches. The investigation also indicated that two additional accused were involved in the operation and are currently absconding. 83 Bank Accounts Identified Across 22 Branches The investigation revealed the scale of the suspected operation through the identification of 83 mule bank accounts across 22 bank branches. Of these, 11 accounts were reportedly connected to 14 cyber fraud transactions involving approximately ₹10.04 crore. The transactions were linked to cybercrime complaints from multiple states, highlighting how networks involving mule accounts can facilitate financial fraud across geographical boundaries. The findings have drawn attention to the role of bank account suppliers in cybercrime operations. While fraudsters may operate online from different locations, they often depend on bank accounts belonging to other individuals to receive and move illegally obtained money. Why Mule Bank Accounts Are Dangerous A mule bank account is an account used to receive, transfer or withdraw money connected to suspicious or illegal financial activities. Criminal networks often approach people with offers of easy money in exchange for access to their bank accounts. Some individuals may believe that renting out an account or sharing banking credentials is a harmless way to earn additional income. However, such arrangements can expose account holders to serious financial and legal consequences. Even if someone claims that the account will be used for legitimate business transactions, allowing unknown individuals to control a personal bank account can create significant risks. Depending on the circumstances and available evidence, account holders may face bank account freezes, police investigations and criminal prosecution. Hyderabad Police Warn Public Against Sharing Bank Accounts People have been advised never to rent, sell or share their bank accounts or banking credentials with others. Bank customers should never hand over their ATM cards, PINs, passbooks, cheque books, UPI credentials, internet banking passwords or SIM cards linked to their accounts. Anyone approached with an offer to earn money by providing a bank account should avoid the arrangement and report suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities. How to Report Cyber Financial Fraud People who become victims of online financial fraud should report the incident immediately. For assistance, citizens can use the following official channels: National Cyber Crime Helpline: 1930 Official Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: https://cybercrime.gov.in/ Victims should contact their bank immediately, report suspicious transactions, preserve relevant transaction records and submit a complaint through the official cybercrime reporting system. Investigation Continues The arrest of three alleged account suppliers has exposed a suspected network involving dozens of bank accounts and financial transactions across multiple states. Police investigations are continuing to trace the absconding accused and examine the wider connections behind the suspected operation. The case serves as an important warning that bank accounts and financial credentials must never be handed over to unknown individuals for commissions or other financial incentives. Source Transparency: Based on information attributed to Hyderabad City Police concerning the arrests and investigation. The allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings. By News National Editorial Team

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AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi visits Bagdal Dargah Sharif in Bidar, Karnataka, and offers prayers and floral tributes at the shrine. Bidar, Karnataka | November 1, 2026 All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president and Hyderabad MP Barrister Asaduddin Owaisi visited the historic Bagdal Dargah Sharif in Bidar district of Karnataka and offered prayers. During his visit, Owaisi paid his respects at the shrine and offered floral tributes as a mark of devotion and reverence. The visit drew attention among local followers and supporters, with the AIMIM president's presence at the religious site highlighting his visit to the Bidar region. Owaisi Offers Prayers at the Dargah Barrister Asaduddin Owaisi visited Bagdal Dargah Sharif and offered his respects at the shrine. He participated in the religious observance and offered flowers, expressing his reverence at the sacred place. Dargahs hold an important place in the religious and cultural traditions of many communities, attracting visitors who come to offer prayers and seek blessings. Visit to Bidar, Karnataka Bidar is a historically significant district in Karnataka, known for its heritage, monuments and religious sites. Owaisi's visit to Bagdal Dargah Sharif was shared through a public announcement, drawing attention from AIMIM supporters and people following his activities. Further details about the purpose of the visit and any other scheduled programmes were not included in the announcement. By News National Editorial Team

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Scientists study Teghaza 001, a 4.1-billion-year-old Martian meteorite found in the Sahara, revealing evidence of ancient water on Mars. October 31, 2026 | Science & Space Scientists have identified one of the oldest known pieces of Mars ever discovered on Earth, offering remarkable clues about the Red Planet's ancient environment. The meteorite, named Teghaza 001, was discovered in the Sahara Desert in 2022 and is estimated to have formed more than 4.1 billion years ago. The discovery is providing scientists with an extraordinary opportunity to study the early geological history of Mars, including evidence that water interacted with its rocky crust billions of years ago. Researchers believe the findings could help explain how Mars evolved from a potentially warmer and wetter planet into the cold, dry world we see today. An Ancient Piece of Mars Found in the Sahara Desert Teghaza 001 was discovered in the Sahara Desert in Mali in 2022. The approximately 800-gram meteorite was later identified as originating from Mars through its chemical composition and oxygen isotope characteristics. Scientists initially had limited information about the rock's age and geological history. However, detailed laboratory investigations revealed unusual minerals and microscopic structures that made the meteorite particularly important. Researchers identified tiny zircon crystals within the rock. These minerals preserve information about geological events and can help scientists determine the age of ancient planetary materials. Using advanced dating techniques, scientists established that Teghaza 001 formed at least 4.1 billion years ago, making it one of the oldest Martian meteorites ever identified on Earth. The research was published in the scientific journal Science in October 2026. Evidence of Water on Ancient Mars One of the most important aspects of this discovery is the evidence of ancient water. Scientists found mineralogical and chemical signatures indicating that water interacted with the meteorite's source rocks deep within the Martian crust. These clues suggest that liquid water was present on Mars more than four billion years ago. A separate scientific study published in Science Advances in June 2026 examined hydrogen isotopes and water-related minerals in Teghaza 001. The researchers identified evidence of interaction between water originating from the Martian interior and water associated with an ancient Martian hydrosphere. The findings provide valuable information about how water moved between Mars' mantle, crust, surface and atmosphere during its early history. Why Is This Meteorite So Important? Most Martian meteorites discovered on Earth are considerably younger than Teghaza 001. This ancient rock provides scientists with an unusual opportunity to investigate a period of Martian history that has been difficult to study using samples available on Earth. Its mineral composition suggests that it represents a previously underrepresented type of ancient Martian crust. Scientists have also compared its chemical characteristics with observations collected by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter to identify possible regions where the meteorite may have originated. Several possible locations have been identified in Mars' ancient southern highlands, although its exact original location remains uncertain. Could Ancient Mars Have Supported Life? The discovery has renewed scientific interest in whether Mars once had environmental conditions suitable for life. Billions of years ago, Mars may have had a denser atmosphere, volcanic activity and liquid water. These conditions could have created environments in which some of the chemical processes associated with life might have occurred. However, scientists have not discovered proof of ancient life in Teghaza 001. The presence of water is an important factor in the search for extraterrestrial life, but water alone does not establish that living organisms existed on the planet. Researchers hope that further studies of the meteorite will reveal more about the chemical conditions that existed during Mars' earliest geological periods. How Did a Piece of Mars Reach Earth? Scientists believe Teghaza 001 was originally part of the Martian crust. At some point in the distant past, a powerful asteroid impact struck Mars and blasted pieces of its surface material into space. Some of this material eventually travelled through space and entered Earth's atmosphere, landing in the Sahara Desert. Meteorites originating from Mars are extremely valuable because they allow scientists to examine actual Martian material in laboratories on Earth without having to send a spacecraft to collect every sample. Scientists are continuing to examine Teghaza 001 to understand its mineral composition, formation history and evidence of ancient water. The discovery could also help researchers identify unexplored regions of Mars that may contain other ancient geological materials. Future Mars exploration missions may use these findings to determine where to search for additional evidence about the planet's ancient environment. The discovery of Teghaza 001 offers an extraordinary glimpse into a time when Mars was very different from the planet we know today. Although it does not prove that life existed there, it provides further evidence that ancient Mars experienced water-related geological activity more than four billion years ago. Could Mars once have been a world with conditions similar to those of early Earth? Scientists are still investigating this fascinating possibility. By News National Editorial Team

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Andhra Pradesh deploys 36,351 police personnel for November 1 local body elections. Tirupati records 61 election-related cases. By News National Editorial Team The Andhra Pradesh government and State Election Commission have strengthened security arrangements across the state ahead of the urban local body elections scheduled for November 1. A total of 36,351 police personnel have been deployed at 4,372 polling locations to ensure free, fair and peaceful elections. According to Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta, the police department registered 261 election-related cases between October 15 and October 29. A total of 107 people were arrested in connection with these cases, while notices were issued to 733 individuals under Section 35(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Tirupati Records Highest Number of Election-Related Cases Tirupati district recorded the highest number of election-related cases in Andhra Pradesh, with 61 cases registered during the reporting period. Other districts reporting election-related cases include: Tirupati: 61 cases YSR Kadapa: 36 cases Annamayya: 31 cases Anantapur: 26 cases Markapuram: 22 cases Regarding arrests, Annamayya district recorded the highest number, with 51 people taken into custody, followed by Tirupati with 27 arrests and YSR Kadapa with 16. Police said the cases involved various election-related disturbances, including clashes between political supporters, physical attacks, intimidation, obstruction of nomination procedures, destruction of nomination papers and damage to property. Extensive Security Arrangements Across Polling Locations The State Election Commission has arranged a comprehensive security network to monitor polling activities and respond to emergencies. The deployment includes district police personnel, Andhra Pradesh Special Police and personnel from other departments. Special mobile patrol units, striking forces and flying squads have also been assigned election duties. Authorities have identified 671 highly sensitive polling locations and 1,233 sensitive locations. Additional security personnel will be deployed at these locations to prevent intimidation, violence and electoral malpractice. Drones, CCTV cameras and videography will be used to monitor sensitive polling locations. Security arrangements have also been made at ballot distribution centres and strong rooms where ballot boxes will be stored. Preventive Measures and Seizures As part of preventive action, police initiated proceedings against 19,993 individuals under Sections 126 and 129 of the BNSS. Additionally, 1,05,767 individuals were bound over as a preventive measure to maintain public peace and prevent election-related disturbances. Police also executed 2,726 pending non-bailable warrants during a special enforcement drive. During statewide inspections and raids, authorities seized unaccounted cash worth approximately Rs 4.91 lakh, liquor valued at nearly Rs 11.99 lakh and 114.1 litres of illicitly distilled liquor. Police also seized approximately 495.9 kg of ganja, valued at around Rs 2.94 crore, along with firecrackers worth Rs 1.49 lakh. Polling Scheduled for November 1 The urban local body elections are scheduled for November 1, covering 100 urban local bodies, including 13 municipal corporations and 87 municipalities and Nagar Panchayats. In Tirupati district, the administration has completed arrangements for municipal elections in four municipalities. District officials have also announced separate schedules for rural local body elections. The police department has instructed personnel to remain alert throughout the election process. Officials have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone attempting to intimidate voters, obstruct polling or disturb public order. Authorities have appealed to political parties, candidates and the public to cooperate with election officials and ensure that every eligible voter can exercise their democratic right without fear, pressure or inducement. Source Transparency: This report is based on statements attributed to Andhra Pradesh DGP Harish Kumar Gupta and reporting published by PTI, Telangana Today and The Times of India on October 30, 2026. Tirupati district election preparations were also reported by The Hans India.

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G20 foreign ministers skipped their traditional Atlanta group photo after objections over Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's participation. By News National Editorial Team Foreign ministers attending the G20 meeting in Atlanta, United States, skipped the traditional group photograph on October 30, 2026, following objections from European representatives over the participation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The decision highlighted continuing diplomatic divisions over Russia's war in Ukraine and disagreements among major economies about how to manage relations with Moscow. A group photograph is a customary feature of major international diplomatic meetings. However, the planned photo opportunity was removed from the agenda after concerns emerged about European representatives appearing alongside Lavrov. According to Reuters, a US official said the State Department removed the photograph from the programme to prevent the issue from becoming a spectacle or distracting from the meeting. Objections over Russia's participation A Western diplomat told Reuters that approximately one-third of participants, including representatives from Australia and Canada, opposed being photographed with Lavrov. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also said there could be no joint photograph with European partners because relations with Russia were not normal. European officials had reportedly considered an alternative arrangement involving two separate photographs: one including Lavrov and another without him. The meeting ultimately proceeded without the traditional group image. The disagreement illustrates how the war in Ukraine continues to influence diplomatic engagements involving Russia and Western governments. Wider tensions surrounding Ukraine Relations between Russia and several European countries have remained strained since the start of the full-scale war in Ukraine. European G20 members have supported Ukraine, while disagreements have continued over sanctions, military assistance and diplomatic engagement with Moscow. The Reuters report also noted criticism from Ukraine over recent decisions by US President Donald Trump concerning Russia, including a diesel purchase agreement and a waiver of some sanctions. These disagreements form part of a wider debate among international partners about how to address the conflict and maintain cooperation on other global issues. Why the photograph matters Although a group photograph is largely symbolic, such moments are often used to represent unity and cooperation among participating governments. The absence of the photograph does not mean the meeting itself was cancelled. Instead, the decision reflected disagreement over the public symbolism of appearing together. Diplomatic meetings often involve governments that have different political positions and foreign policy priorities. Their participation can continue even when relations between individual countries remain tense. In this instance, the dispute over the photograph became a visible expression of the divisions surrounding Russia's role in international diplomacy. G20 discussions continue despite divisions The G20 brings together major advanced and emerging economies to discuss international economic and political challenges. Its meetings provide opportunities for governments to exchange views even when they disagree on major conflicts or policy questions. The Atlanta meeting took place against a backdrop of continuing tensions involving Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as wider debates about trade, energy and international cooperation. The decision to skip the group photograph demonstrated the difficulty of presenting a unified public image when participating governments hold sharply different positions on major geopolitical issues. Whether the meeting produces progress on specific diplomatic questions will depend on the discussions and any outcomes announced by participating governments. News National will continue to follow developments from the G20 meeting and the diplomatic discussions surrounding the Ukraine conflict and international relations.

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