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Pavuluru, Inkollu middle class people's lives has made the unforgettable tears in their minds

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Egypt's 11-year-old Mayar Othman wins AED 500,000 in Dubai's Arab Reading Challenge after an inspiring reading journey. By News National Editorial Team An 11-year-old girl from Egypt has achieved international recognition after being crowned the champion of the 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge, one of the world's largest student reading competitions, held in Dubai. Mayar Mohammed Ragab Othman was honoured by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, during the competition's grand finale on October 29, 2026. The young student received a prize of AED 500,000, equivalent to approximately ₹1.2 crore, for securing first place in the competition. Her achievement has attracted attention across the Arab world and highlighted the importance of encouraging reading among children. From Reading 60 Books to Becoming a Champion Mayar's success followed a remarkable reading journey that included reading at least 60 books as part of the challenge. Her performance helped her progress through the competition's selection stages and eventually represent Egypt at the international final in Dubai. According to reports, she qualified from a field of more than 17.6 million participants in Egypt before competing against national champions from other countries. Speaking after her victory, Mayar explained how reading had influenced her personality, thinking and ambitions. She also expressed her intention to use part of her prize money to establish a small library at her school, giving other students greater access to books. Her decision has added another meaningful dimension to the achievement, turning a personal success into an opportunity to encourage reading among fellow students. Sheikh Mohammed Honours the Young Winner The award ceremony took place at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Thursday, October 29. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum personally crowned Mayar as the 10th Arab Reading Challenge champion. The event was attended by senior UAE officials and representatives of the participating countries. The competition also recognised outstanding achievements in several other categories, including the Best School, Outstanding Supervisor, Community Champion and People of Determination Champion awards. Mayar's victory placed Egypt at the centre of the international celebration of reading and education. More Than 40 Million Students Participated The 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge recorded its largest participation since the initiative began. According to the organisers, the 2026 competition attracted: 40,286,428 students from 60 countries. 138,426 schools participating worldwide. 161,507 supervisors supporting students. 74,062 participants in the People of Determination category. The participation represented a 24% increase compared with the previous edition. The competition was organised by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), an organisation that supports educational, humanitarian and community development initiatives. Other Winners Recognised The final also celebrated students who secured the second and third positions. Palestinian student Ghazal Rashad Adel Tayyem won second place and received AED 100,000, while Saudi Arabian student Rayan bin Adeeb Ali Al Zakeri secured third place with a prize of AED 70,000. Tunisia's Sidi Amer School received the Best School award, which carried a prize of AED 1 million. Jordan's Fakhri Mahmoud Mayyas was recognised in the Outstanding Supervisor category. These awards highlighted the contributions of students, schools and educators in promoting literacy and a culture of learning. A Reading Initiative That Has Reached Millions Launched in 2015 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Arab Reading Challenge aims to encourage children and young people to develop a lasting habit of reading. The initiative promotes Arabic-language reading, strengthens comprehension and communication skills, and encourages students to explore knowledge beyond their school textbooks. Across its first ten editions, the challenge has reached more than 203 million student participants, according to the organisers. Mayar's achievement demonstrates how reading can help young people develop confidence, knowledge and ambition. Her plan to build a school library also sends an important message: the benefits of reading become greater when knowledge is shared. For millions of participating students, her victory is an inspiring reminder that books can open doors to opportunities far beyond the classroom.

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Bhutan Dedicates 76th Buddhist Stupa to PM Modi; 108 Chortens Raised in Gelephu Gelephu, Bhutan | November 3, 2026 Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck has dedicated the 76th Buddhist stupa in a newly completed group of 108 Jangchub Chortens to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognising his support for the Gelephu Mindfulness City project and the close relationship between India and Bhutan. The dedication took place on November 1 during a ceremony in Gelephu Mindfulness City, led by the Bhutanese King. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju represented the Government of India and joined the King and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay in prayers at Stupa No. 76. 108 stupas raised in a single day The project saw 108 Buddhist stupas, also known as Jangchub Chortens, erected in a single day. According to the Indian government’s Press Information Bureau, each structure is 15 metres tall and stands 108 metres from the next along an 11.7-kilometre stretch beside the Aie (Mau) River. Rijiju said more than 40,000 volunteers, monks and artisans took part in the work, which began after midnight and was completed in six hours. The project was conceived and led by the King of Bhutan.  The chortens are part of the spiritual foundations of Gelephu Mindfulness City, a planned development intended to reflect Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual traditions while supporting its future growth. The project is also intended to highlight the country’s Vajrayana Buddhist heritage. Stupa dedicated to Modi The King dedicated Stupa No. 76 to Modi in recognition of his support for Gelephu Mindfulness City and India’s commitment to the partnership between the two countries. Rijiju conveyed Modi’s gratitude to the Bhutanese King for the dedication. He described the gesture as a meaningful expression of the spiritual and cultural ties shared by India and Bhutan.  The ceremony took place on Lhabab Duchen, an important Buddhist observance. It included prayers and the traditional sounding of dungchen, long ceremonial horns.  India reaffirms support for Gelephu Mindfulness City During his visit to Bhutan from October 31 to November 2, Rijiju also met King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. The Indian government said the meetings reviewed cooperation in areas including development, trade, energy, investment, connectivity and cultural exchanges. Rijiju reaffirmed India’s support for Gelephu Mindfulness City and its potential to contribute to development in neighbouring areas of India as well as Bhutan. The dedication of Stupa No. 76 adds a religious and cultural dimension to the longstanding relationship between the neighbouring countries. The wider project brings together volunteers and communities in a shared effort rooted in Bhutan’s Buddhist traditions. By News National Editorial Team Sources: Press Information Bureau, Government of India; Akashvani News; India Today. 

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Indian Navy rescues 20 Iranian crew members from hijacked fishing vessel Azini off Somalia after a 48-hour operation with IAF support. By News National Editorial Team NEW DELHI, November 3, 2026: The Indian Navy has successfully rescued all 20 Iranian crew members from a hijacked fishing vessel off the northeastern coast of Somalia following a complex maritime security operation lasting more than 48 hours. The vessel, identified as Azini, had been hijacked by armed Somali pirates on October 29, raising concerns that it could be used as a base for launching further attacks against commercial shipping in the Arabian Sea and surrounding international waters. The rescue operation was completed on November 2, approximately 3,000 kilometres from Mumbai, demonstrating India's ability to conduct maritime security missions far beyond its coastline. Indian Navy Launches Coordinated Rescue Mission Following information about the hijacking, the Indian Navy deployed a mission-ready warship supported by a maritime reconnaissance aircraft to locate and intercept the vessel. Naval surveillance teams tracked the fishing boat's movements and used coordinated measures to restrict its movement and prevent it from escaping. The operation involved close coordination between naval personnel, surveillance aircraft and specialist marine commandos. In a significant part of the mission, Indian Marine Commandos were deployed through a precision airdrop from an Indian Air Force C-17 transport aircraft. The commandos subsequently carried out a tactical intervention, secured the hijacked vessel and neutralised the pirate threat, ensuring the safe release of all 20 crew members. According to the Indian Navy, the operation was completed without casualties or injuries among the rescued crew. Pirates' Plan to Use Fishing Vessel as a Mother Ship Foiled The hijacking represented a serious maritime security concern because the pirates could potentially have converted the fishing vessel into a so-called mother ship. Such vessels can be used as operational bases to support attacks on larger merchant ships operating along important international shipping routes. By securing the Azini and rescuing its crew, Indian forces prevented the vessel from potentially being used to support further pirate activities in the region. The operation also highlighted the importance of continuous maritime surveillance and rapid coordination between naval and air forces. Iran Thanks India for Successful Rescue The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi expressed its appreciation to the Government of India, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force for rescuing the 20 Iranian nationals. The embassy praised the professionalism and coordination demonstrated by Indian armed forces and described the mission as an example of humanitarian assistance, international solidarity and cooperation between India and Iran. The response highlighted the humanitarian importance of protecting civilian sailors and fishermen from maritime criminal activities, regardless of their nationality. Somali Piracy Raises Maritime Security Concerns The incident comes amid renewed concerns about piracy off the Somali coast and across the western Indian Ocean. Somali piracy has previously threatened international commercial shipping, particularly vessels travelling through important maritime corridors connecting Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe. The region remains strategically important because of its proximity to major international shipping routes, including those connecting the Arabian Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. The resurgence of piracy has increased the importance of international naval cooperation, maritime surveillance and coordinated responses to threats against commercial vessels. India's Maritime Security Role The successful rescue operation demonstrates the Indian Navy's ability to coordinate complex maritime missions involving warships, aircraft and specialist forces. India has regularly deployed naval assets to protect commercial shipping, support maritime security and respond to emergencies in the Indian Ocean Region. The rescue of the Azini crew also reinforces India's stated commitment to protecting seafarers and maintaining safe international maritime routes. Saving all 20 crew members from a hijacked vessel thousands of kilometres from Mumbai marks a significant humanitarian and maritime security operation by Indian forces. Sources for publication: The Indian Express – Rescue operation details LiveMint – Iran's response and operation Associated Press – Independent reporting PTI – Rescue operation report  

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Andhra Pradesh municipal election results 2026 TDP-led NDA records victories in Kuppam, Macherla and other urban local bodies. By News National Editorial Team AMARAVATI, November 3, 2026: The results of the Andhra Pradesh urban local body elections have begun emerging across the state, with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) recording significant victories in several municipalities and municipal corporations. The counting of votes began on Tuesday, November 3, following polling conducted on November 1 across 92 urban local bodies. The elections covered 13 municipal corporations and 79 municipalities and Nagar Panchayats, making them an important electoral exercise for the ruling coalition and opposition parties. The results are being closely watched as an indicator of political support at the local level following the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections. Elections Held Across 92 Urban Local Bodies The urban local body elections covered thousands of ward-level contests across Andhra Pradesh. According to election reports, the counting arrangements included: 13 municipal corporations. 79 municipalities and Nagar Panchayats. 3,186 wards covered in the counting exercise. 138 counting centres. 556 counting halls. 6,831 counting tables. The elections recorded a reported voter turnout of 62.16%, according to figures cited in election coverage. The Telugu Desam Party, Jana Sena Party and Bharatiya Janata Party contested as alliance partners, while the YSR Congress Party fielded candidates in the municipal contests. NDA Records Victories in Several Municipalities The TDP-led alliance recorded victories in several urban local bodies, including Kuppam, Macherla, Yemmiganur, Narasapuram and Palasa-Kasibugga. One of the notable outcomes came from Kuppam, where the alliance secured all 32 wards. In Macherla, the alliance also won all 36 wards, according to published election results. These victories attracted attention because several of the municipalities are politically significant areas in the state. The alliance also secured majorities in other municipalities, strengthening its position in the urban local body elections. Tirupati Municipal Corporation Result Tirupati was among the important urban centres covered by the elections. TDP candidate Manne Srinivas Prasad emerged victorious in the Tirupati mayoral election, with the party reporting a winning margin of 30,972 votes. The result attracted particular attention because Tirupati is an important religious, tourism and commercial centre in Andhra Pradesh. The municipal administration plays a major role in managing sanitation, roads, drainage, urban infrastructure and civic services in the rapidly developing city. Political Competition and Opposition Response The municipal elections witnessed competition between the ruling NDA alliance and the opposition YSR Congress Party. The opposition raised allegations of irregularities in certain locations during the electoral process. These allegations require examination through the appropriate election authorities and cannot be treated as established findings without official verification. The Andhra Pradesh High Court also considered petitions concerning counting in Pulivendula municipality. The court dismissed the petitions seeking broader repolling, allowing the counting process to proceed. The election exercise therefore involved both political competition and legal scrutiny of specific electoral disputes. Why These Municipal Results Matter Urban local bodies are responsible for several essential public services, including: Drinking water supply. Roads and drainage infrastructure. Solid waste management. Street lighting. Public health and sanitation. Building permissions and local development. Maintenance of public spaces. The newly elected representatives will have an important role in addressing these issues and coordinating with state government departments. The results will also shape local political representation and municipal administration across Andhra Pradesh. As counting and result declarations progress, the State Election Commission's official notifications remain the final authority for confirming individual ward and chairperson outcomes. Sources: The South First – Andhra Pradesh urban local body election results. Hindustan Times – Andhra Pradesh municipal election live updates. The Times of India – Counting across 92 urban local bodies. TV9 Telugu – Municipal election results and ward-level updates.

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Binance faced a $6.3 billion crypto theft, suspended withdrawals and pledged to cover customer losses, later reporting 95% asset recovery. By News National Editorial Team A massive security breach involving cryptocurrency exchange Binance has shaken digital asset markets after hackers stole an estimated $6.3 billion worth of cryptocurrency, prompting the world's largest crypto exchange to temporarily suspend withdrawals and assure customers that it would cover the financial losses. The incident, reported on October 30, 2026, triggered concerns across the cryptocurrency industry. Prices of major digital assets declined following news of the breach, while investors questioned the security of funds held on centralised trading platforms. Binance said it had taken precautionary measures to protect its platform and customer assets while investigating the incident. The exchange also promised that users would not be required to bear the financial impact of the stolen funds. $6.3 Billion Theft Raises Security Concerns The reported theft is among the largest cryptocurrency security incidents ever recorded. According to Reuters, the bulk of the operation unfolded within approximately 20 minutes late on October 29. Blockchain intelligence companies TRM Labs and Chainalysis reportedly linked the attack to North Korea-associated cybercriminal activity. The FBI subsequently identified a North Korean state-sponsored hacking group known as TraderTraitor as responsible for the theft. The FBI said the stolen cryptocurrency was being converted primarily into Ethereum, raising concerns that the attackers could attempt to move the funds through additional cryptocurrency services to make tracing more difficult. North Korea has previously been accused by international authorities of using cyber operations to generate revenue, although Pyongyang has denied such allegations. Binance Temporarily Suspends Withdrawals Following the discovery of the security incident, Binance temporarily suspended cryptocurrency withdrawals while its teams assessed the breach, secured affected services and investigated the movement of assets. The suspension raised concerns among customers who wanted immediate access to their holdings. Binance maintained that customer funds remained safe and explained that the withdrawal restrictions were necessary to contain the incident and complete security checks. The exchange also coordinated with law enforcement agencies, blockchain investigators and other cryptocurrency companies to trace and freeze the stolen assets. Stablecoin issuers, including Tether and Circle, reportedly froze substantial amounts of assets linked to the incident, helping limit the movement of some stolen funds. Binance Promises to Cover the Losses Binance co-CEO Richard Teng said the company would take responsibility for the financial impact of the breach. The exchange began replacing the affected cryptocurrency using its own resources and available reserves. Its recovery efforts involved its Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU), its Futures insurance fund and corporate funds. In an update published on November 1, Binance said it had replenished approximately 95% of the affected assets, with the remaining 5% consisting largely of less-liquid tokens that could take longer to source in the required quantities. The company reiterated that customers would not be made responsible for the losses. Binance also said it would replenish its SAFU reserve following the use of part of the fund during the recovery process. Withdrawals Resume in Phases After completing security assessments and recovery measures, Binance announced that it would gradually restore withdrawal services from November 1. The first phase covered several major cryptocurrencies and networks, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB, Solana, XRP and Dogecoin. The company said additional assets and networks would become available as security checks were completed. It also warned customers that temporary delays could occur because of high transaction volumes during the initial restoration period. The gradual reopening was intended to restore customer access without compromising the platform's security. Customers Withdraw Billions After Services Reopen The incident also prompted significant customer withdrawals after Binance reopened access. According to reporting by The Block, Binance processed approximately $4.65 billion in withdrawals and $1.01 billion in deposits during the first nine-and-a-half hours after withdrawals resumed on November 1. This represented net outflows of around $3.64 billion. The exchange said the outflows represented approximately 2.1% of its reported assets under management at the time. On November 3, Reuters reported that Binance co-CEO Richard Teng described the company's financial position as very strong and said customer inflows and outflows had largely normalised. The company also maintained that approximately 95% of the affected tokens had been replenished. What the Incident Means for the Cryptocurrency Industry The breach has renewed questions about the security of centralised cryptocurrency exchanges, which hold and manage digital assets for millions of customers. Although blockchain transactions are publicly traceable, exchanges remain exposed to operational vulnerabilities, compromised systems and sophisticated cyberattacks. The incident also highlights the importance of independent security assessments, transparent proof-of-reserves information, effective emergency response systems and cooperation between exchanges and law enforcement agencies. For investors, the episode is a reminder that cryptocurrency market risks extend beyond price fluctuations. The security of the platform holding digital assets is equally important. Binance has said it will publish a more detailed post-incident report after its investigation is completed. The findings are expected to provide further information about how the attackers accessed the system and what additional safeguards will be introduced. The recovery of most affected assets and the restoration of withdrawals represent important steps towards stabilising the platform. However, the incident is likely to remain a significant test of confidence in the global cryptocurrency industry. Sources: Reuters, Binance official security incident updates, FBI statements and The Block. image:https://www.telegraphindia.com/business/hackers-steal-6-3-billion-from-binance-in-worlds-biggest-crypto-heist-north-korean-hackers-suspected/cid/2187015?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=tt_daily&fbclid=IwY2xjawVXB_RleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mBWJyaWQRMVo1d2UxcXpKb3R6RGRMUFFzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEfYEZX0SbKWBk0g1a0h0T4EFp4OmdMCjFKCUQRyk-fBzl-Jwci9IDpAWH9Pqs_aem_5HU12Xn98i8ADtS8yuo4ZA#goog_rewarded

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Cyberattacks disrupt supermarket refrigeration across Europe, pushing some freezer temperatures to 50°C and causing major food losses. By News National Editorial Team A series of unusual cyberattacks targeting supermarket refrigeration systems has disrupted food retailers across Europe, forcing businesses to discard spoiled products and raising fresh concerns about the cybersecurity of essential infrastructure. The latest wave of incidents, reported on November 2, 2026, affected supermarkets and other food businesses in several European countries. Hackers reportedly gained remote access to refrigeration control systems and manipulated temperature settings, causing refrigerators and freezers to warm up or enter defrost mode. In some Swedish stores, freezer temperatures reportedly reached as high as 50°C, turning equipment designed to preserve frozen food into a source of heat. Retailers were forced to remove affected products from sale and assess the financial damage. The incidents have drawn attention to the growing risks associated with internet-connected equipment used in everyday commercial operations. Multiple European Countries Report Disruptions The second wave of incidents affected businesses in Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Ireland and the Netherlands, according to reporting by international news agencies. Further reports identified incidents in Estonia, Finland, Italy and Portugal, bringing the number of affected European countries to at least nine. Several major supermarket operators and food retailers reported problems, including ICA and Coop in Sweden, Ahold Delhaize and Carrefour in Belgium, Colruyt, and Musgrave-operated SuperValu stores in Ireland. In Belgium, approximately 40 Delhaize supermarkets and 15 Carrefour stores were among the businesses reporting refrigeration problems. In Ireland, 13 SuperValu outlets were affected, while several businesses in the Netherlands also experienced disruptions. The exact number of affected stores varies between reports as investigations continue and retailers assess the full impact. Hackers Manipulated Refrigeration Controls Unlike conventional cyberattacks that primarily target customer information, payment systems or company databases, these incidents affected operational technology responsible for controlling physical equipment. Refrigeration systems at supermarkets often use connected controllers that allow technicians and operators to monitor temperatures, compressors and defrost cycles remotely. Investigators and industry specialists say attackers appear to have accessed these systems and changed their operating settings. In some cases, refrigeration units were switched into defrost mode, while others experienced significant temperature increases. A Swedish supermarket employee told Reuters that all the freezers at an affected store had reportedly reached 50°C. The incident was discovered hours after the overnight disruption, by which time the frozen stock had been destroyed. The attacks demonstrate how vulnerabilities in seemingly ordinary equipment can create serious operational consequences. Food Losses and Financial Damage The immediate impact has been the loss of perishable food products. Supermarkets affected by the incidents removed chilled and frozen products from sale when they could no longer guarantee that the required storage temperatures had been maintained. Some retailers used refrigerated vehicles or alternative storage facilities to protect unaffected products. Others had to dispose of damaged stock to prevent potentially unsafe food from reaching consumers. In Belgium, a butcher reported losses of approximately €15,000 after refrigeration problems damaged meat products. The total financial damage across Europe has not yet been established. However, the incidents could result in additional costs involving discarded food, equipment inspections, technical repairs and cybersecurity improvements. A Similar Attack Had Already Hit France The latest incidents follow a major attack on supermarket refrigeration systems in France during the night of October 11–12, 2026. Hundreds of supermarket outlets belonging to several retail groups reportedly experienced disruptions after attackers manipulated connected cooling systems. Some refrigeration units were reportedly pushed to temperatures of up to 50°C for several hours. The French incidents caused substantial food losses and, according to the Paris prosecutor's office, fires at some locations. Retailers including Carrefour, Intermarché, Monoprix and other supermarket groups reported being affected. The repeated incidents have raised questions about whether weaknesses in commonly used refrigeration equipment or remote-access systems could be exploited across multiple businesses. However, authorities have not confirmed that all the attacks in France and other European countries were carried out by the same individuals or group. Investigators Yet to Identify Those Responsible As of November 3, no group had publicly claimed responsibility for the latest wave of attacks. Authorities and cybersecurity specialists are examining the incidents, including possible weaknesses in internet-connected refrigeration controllers and remote-management systems. The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) has highlighted the importance of cooperation, rapid information-sharing and coordinated responses to cyber incidents affecting retailers across several member states. Cybersecurity researchers have also warned that outdated equipment, default passwords, exposed internet connections and unpatched software can provide attackers with opportunities to access operational systems. There is currently insufficient public evidence to attribute the attacks to a particular country, organisation or political group. Why These Attacks Matter Beyond Supermarkets The incidents highlight a growing cybersecurity challenge: the increasing connection of physical infrastructure to digital networks. Modern businesses depend on connected systems for refrigeration, heating, ventilation, electricity management, security cameras, access controls and industrial operations. Although these technologies improve efficiency and allow remote monitoring, inadequate security can expose essential equipment to cyber interference. A compromised supermarket refrigeration system can cause food losses within hours. Similar vulnerabilities in other sectors could potentially disrupt warehouses, manufacturing facilities, hospitals and other services that depend on temperature-controlled environments. Security specialists recommend isolating operational technology from public internet access, replacing default passwords, installing security updates, restricting remote access and monitoring unusual system activity. Retailers also need emergency procedures that allow staff to monitor and control critical equipment if remote systems become unavailable. A Warning for Critical Infrastructure Security The European supermarket incidents demonstrate that cyberattacks do not always need to steal personal information or demand ransom to cause serious damage. By interfering with equipment that businesses depend on every day, attackers can create financial losses, operational disruption and potential risks to food safety. Investigations are continuing, and the full extent of the damage remains unclear. The incidents have nevertheless intensified calls for stronger cybersecurity protections across Europe's retail and food supply chains. The central concern is no longer limited to protecting computers and customer databases. Businesses must also secure the connected systems that keep essential services running. Sources: Reuters (November 2–3, 2026), Associated Press, EFE, Euronews and European cybersecurity authorities.

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TRAI has ordered 24-hour complaint centres for telecom and internet providers, with human support, faster appeals and penalties for mishandled cases. By News National Editorial Team The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has directed telecom operators and internet service providers to establish complaint centres that operate around the clock, under amended consumer complaint redressal rules announced on Monday. The centres may use AI-based agents, but the rules also require human assistance for at least 16 hours a day, according to Hindustan Times. The amended rules introduce financial penalties for mishandling consumer complaints. The report says service providers could face penalties of up to ₹20 lakh per quarter per service area, depending on the nature and number of complaints or appeals found to have been wrongly disposed of. TRAI will also require operators to submit quarterly performance reports. The rules address how customers contact providers and track complaints. They include requirements for a standard interactive voice response system, a human-support option, call-back facilities and complaint registration through apps and websites. Consumers are to receive status updates through SMS or email, and services must be available in a state’s official language in addition to Hindi and English. The regulator has also shortened the period for filing an appeal from 30 days to 15 days and directed appellate authorities to decide appeals within 15 days. The report says complaints and appeals will be subject to consumer feedback surveys, with results published quarterly. The revised framework is intended to make grievance redressal more accessible and accountable. However, the implementation timetable is staggered: the report says the rules take effect 30 days after publication in the Official Gazette, while some requirements—including 24-hour centres—are scheduled to apply later. Consumers should check the final Gazette notification and their provider’s updates for the applicable dates. Sources: Hindustan Times; Akashvani News.India News,Akashvani News

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Cyclone Murasu made landfall near Ongole with winds up to 120 kmph, bringing heavy rain and disrupting transport across Andhra Pradesh., By News National Editorial Team Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole early on Tuesday, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to coastal areas, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The storm made landfall between Nellore and Narasapur, with sustained winds reported at 100–110 kmph and gusts reaching 120 kmph Authorities had begun evacuation and preparedness measures ahead of the storm. Reuters reported that officials planned to move around 30,000 people to safety from areas in its path. The state disaster management authority said there had been no reports of deaths or injuries at the time of its report, although trees and power poles had been uprooted. The cyclone’s approach disrupted transport and public services. The Associated Press reported that schools had closed and some train services and flights were suspended, while officials warned of flooding in low-lying areas and a possible coastal storm surge. Murasu is the second cyclone to affect Andhra Pradesh in a week, following Cyclone Arnab. Reuters reported that Arnab had killed at least six people, while AP reported at least five; the difference in the early casualty figures highlights the need to rely on updated official assessments as relief and damage evaluations continue. The IMD’s latest bulletin, as carried by Akashvani, said Murasu was expected to move north-northwest and weaken gradually after crossing the coast. Heavy rain and strong winds can still pose risks after landfall, particularly in low-lying communities and areas affected by fallen trees or damaged power infrastructure. Residents should follow district administration and IMD advisories, avoid flooded roads and exposed coastal areas, and stay clear of fallen electrical wires. These are general safety precautions; people should follow any specific evacuation or shelter instructions issued by local authorities. Sources: Reuters; Associated Press; Akashvani News.Reuters,AP News,Akashvani News

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SEBI reportedly recommends removing LTCG tax for foreign investors and easing mutual fund switch taxation ahead of Budget 2027. Mumbai, November 2, 2026: India's capital markets regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has reportedly recommended changes to the country's capital gains taxation framework in an effort to improve foreign investment flows and encourage long-term participation in domestic mutual funds. According to a Reuters report published on November 2, SEBI has proposed that the government consider abolishing long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax for foreign investors. It has also reportedly recommended exempting domestic mutual fund investors from tax when they switch between eligible investments after holding them for more than a year. The recommendations were reportedly submitted ahead of the Union Budget scheduled for February 2027. However, the proposals are non-binding. They do not mean that the government has approved a tax reduction or that investors can immediately stop paying the applicable taxes. Why SEBI is reportedly considering tax changes Foreign investment is an important source of capital for India's equity markets. Foreign portfolio investors participate in listed companies, government securities and other financial instruments. However, taxation is one of several factors that influence investment decisions. Currency movements, corporate earnings, economic growth, market valuations and global interest rates also affect how international investors allocate money. Reuters reported that foreign investors had sold approximately $31 billion worth of Indian equities during the year, adding to concerns about sustained overseas outflows. SEBI's reported recommendation is intended to make India's equity market more attractive to international investors and encourage longer-term participation. What is long-term capital gains tax? Long-term capital gains tax is levied on profits earned from selling certain investments after they have been held for a specified period. For listed equity shares and equity-oriented mutual funds in India, the applicable holding-period rules and tax thresholds determine whether gains are classified as short-term or long-term. Under the existing framework reported by Reuters, the long-term capital gains tax rate applicable to relevant equity gains is 12.5%, subject to the applicable provisions and exemptions. SEBI's reported recommendation to remove this tax for foreign investors would represent a significant policy change if the government accepted it. What about domestic mutual fund investors? The recommendation reportedly also covers certain switches between domestic mutual fund investments. Investors sometimes move money from one mutual fund scheme to another to adjust their portfolios, manage risk or change their investment strategy. Under existing tax rules, a switch or redemption can have tax consequences because it may be treated as a transfer of units. The reported SEBI recommendation seeks an exemption for qualifying switches after a holding period exceeding one year. The exact scope, eligibility conditions and implementation details would depend on any formal government proposal. Has the government approved the proposal? No approval has been announced in the reporting cited here. It is important to distinguish between a regulator's recommendation and an official change in tax law. In a July 2026 parliamentary response, the government had said there was no proposal under consideration to abolish long-term capital gains tax on equities. It also stated that taxation measures are reviewed through the annual Budget process. The reported SEBI recommendations are a later development, but they do not by themselves change the law. Any change would require an appropriate government decision and, where necessary, legislative amendments. What could this mean for India's stock market? If the recommendations are accepted, the changes could potentially: Improve the tax attractiveness of Indian equities for foreign portfolio investors. Encourage international investors to consider longer investment horizons. Make certain mutual fund portfolio switches more tax-efficient. Influence foreign capital flows and market liquidity. However, tax changes alone cannot guarantee an increase in foreign investment. Investors also consider political stability, economic growth, company performance, market valuations and global financial conditions. What investors should do now Retail investors should not make investment decisions based on an unapproved tax recommendation. Existing tax provisions continue to apply unless the government officially announces and implements changes. Investors should check official Finance Ministry announcements, Budget documents and notifications from the Central Board of Direct Taxes before making decisions based on possible tax benefits. The reported SEBI proposals could become an important subject of discussion in the run-up to the Union Budget 2027. Their final outcome will depend on the government's response. By News National Editorial Team Sources: Reuters – SEBI's reported tax recommendations · Business Standard – Government's July 2026 tax clarification image source:https://www.newindianexpress.com/business/2025/Aug/22/sebi-gets-three-new-executive-directors

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An Indian tourist was killed and three people injured after Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty helicopters collided at Pheriche, Nepal. Pheriche, Nepal | November 3, 2026 Two helicopters operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty collided while attempting to land at the Pheriche helipad in Nepal’s Everest region on Tuesday morning, killing a 47-year-old Indian tourist and injuring three other people, including both pilots. The accident occurred at approximately 8:11 a.m. local time in Pheriche, located in Solukhumbu district within Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. The remote settlement lies along the popular trekking route to Mount Everest Base Camp. According to reports citing Nepalese police and aviation authorities, the deceased was identified as Vasanth Kumar Balaramudu, a 47-year-old Indian national from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He was travelling aboard the Fishtail Air helicopter and died at the accident site. Three people injured The injured were identified as a passenger and the pilots of the two helicopters. The passenger, 49-year-old Shailesh Kumar Patel, is a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin. Fishtail Air pilot Rabindra Prajapati and Air Dynasty pilot Prajal K.C. also sustained injuries. Patel and Prajapati were airlifted to Nepal Mediciti Hospital in Kathmandu for treatment. Air Dynasty pilot Prajal K.C. was taken to a hospital in Lukla. His condition was reported to be stable, according to local reports. Emergency helicopter services assisted with the evacuation from the remote accident location. What happened during the landing? The aircraft involved were operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty. Preliminary reports indicate that their rotor blades struck each other as the helicopters approached the Pheriche helipad. According to information reported by The Kathmandu Post, the Air Dynasty helicopter had flown from Lukla, while the Fishtail Air helicopter had arrived from Gorakshep. The collision occurred during landing operations. The precise sequence of events and the factors that led to the aircraft coming into contact remain subjects of investigation. Aviation authorities begin investigation Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority and local police have begun examining the circumstances surrounding the accident. Investigators are expected to establish the aircraft movements, communication between pilots, landing procedures and other operational factors. The Civil Aviation Authority's preliminary comments, reported by The Kathmandu Post, raised the possibility of communication problems between pilots operating in an area without coverage from Lukla Airport's air traffic control tower. This has not been established as the final cause. No definitive conclusion about responsibility or the technical cause should be drawn before the investigation is completed. Safety concerns in Nepal’s Everest region Helicopters play an important role in Nepal's Himalayan tourism industry. They transport trekkers, mountaineers and supplies, and are frequently used for medical evacuations and rescue operations in areas where road access is extremely limited. Pheriche is an important stopping point for visitors travelling towards Everest Base Camp. Its high-altitude location and challenging mountain environment make aviation operations particularly demanding. The collision has renewed attention on helicopter coordination and landing safety in the Everest region, where aircraft movements increase during busy trekking and climbing seasons. Authorities are continuing their investigation. Further information about the accident and its findings is expected as officials complete their inquiries. By News National Editorial Team Sources: Nepal Civil Aviation Authority information reported by The Kathmandu Post; Nepal Police information reported by OnlineKhabar; News On AIR.

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Fire breaks out at HPCL Visakhapatnam refinery after a reported explosion. The blaze was controlled, with no deaths or injuries reported. By News National Editorial Team VISAKHAPATNAM, November 3, 2026: A fire broke out at the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) refinery in Visakhapatnam on Monday night, November 2, triggering concern among residents after flames and thick black smoke were seen rising from the industrial facility. The incident was reported at approximately 10 PM at the HPCL Visakh Refinery in Malkapuram. According to the company, the fire occurred at a pitch intermediate storage tank within the refinery premises. HPCL confirmed that the fire was confined to the affected tank area and was brought under control within a short period through the refinery's emergency response arrangements. The company also confirmed that no casualties or injuries were reported. Fire Reported Following a Blast The incident reportedly began with a small explosion before flames emerged from the storage tank area. The sudden appearance of a large fire and thick smoke attracted attention from people living in nearby areas, with some residents expressing concern about the possibility of a larger industrial accident. According to local officials, the fire involved pitch material associated with the refinery's sulphur unit. The exact technical cause of the incident had not been established in the initial reports. HPCL Activates Emergency Response System Following the incident, HPCL's Fire and Safety Team immediately activated its emergency response procedures and deployed firefighting equipment. The company subsequently announced that the fire had been localised and extinguished. HPCL stated that all refinery units were operating safely following the incident. Local police and administrative officials also visited the facility to assess the situation. Visakhapatnam officials said there were no deaths or injuries and requested residents not to panic. Officials Indicate Industrial Safety Enquiry Revenue Divisional Officer Dileep Chakravarthy said the fire had been extinguished using the refinery's firefighting systems and resources from the Andhra Pradesh Fire Department. He also indicated that an enquiry would be initiated to examine industrial safety aspects in accordance with applicable regulations. The investigation is expected to help establish the circumstances that led to the incident and determine whether any additional safety measures are required. Importance of Industrial Safety in Visakhapatnam Visakhapatnam is one of Andhra Pradesh's major industrial centres, with petroleum refining, port operations, manufacturing and other large industrial activities contributing significantly to the regional economy. The HPCL Visakh Refinery is a major petroleum processing facility with an installed capacity of 15 million metric tonnes per annum. The refinery produces several petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, aviation turbine fuel, LPG and other industrial products. Any fire or accident at such a facility can raise concerns about worker safety, industrial preparedness and the protection of nearby communities. The November 2 incident was brought under control without reported casualties. However, the planned enquiry will be important in establishing the cause and assessing whether further preventive measures are necessary. Sources: ThePrint/PTI – HPCL confirms fire was controlled and no casualties occurred. The Indian Express – Initial report on the refinery fire. The Times of India – Local officials' statements and safety enquiry details.

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