Sunday, March 08
Delhi's air pollution nearly doubled in November, making it India's fourth most polluted city. Despite reduced stubble burning, PM2.5 levels soared, with 23 'very poor' and six 'severe' days. Nine of the ten most polluted cities are in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, highlighting the need for sector-specific emission cuts.
The Trump administration has significantly reduced the validity of work permits for immigrants, including those awaiting green cards, from five years to 18 months. USCIS cites security concerns and the need for more frequent vetting to deter fraud and identify threats.
Congress has unveiled its lineup of speakers for the upcoming Lok Sabha debate on Vande Mataram, marking the national song's 150th anniversary. Leaders like Gaurav Gogoi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will represent the party. The discussion aims to revive the song's revolutionary spirit, with Prime Minister Modi set to initiate the proceedings.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor attended a banquet for Russian President Vladimir Putin. He described the atmosphere as warm and friendly. Tharoor's presence caused friction within the Congress party. Other leaders criticised the government for not inviting key opposition figures to similar events. They stated this move goes against democratic traditions.
"At one time, reforms in India were reactionary. This means that either political interests were linked to major decisions, or they were announced to manage a crisis. However, reforms are carried out with national goals in mind. We have set targets. Each sector across the country is seeing improvement. Our growth is constant. Our intent is nation first," PM Modi said.
Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah stated the INDIA alliance is "on life support," citing internal infighting and weak organization as reasons for its inability to challenge the BJP. He blamed the bloc for Nitish Kumar's return to the NDA and highlighted organizational failures, suggesting Congress must lead any serious opposition challenge.
