INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026 1 A We e kl y N e w s p a p e r Fe a tu r i ng N ew s an d Tren d s f ro m the In d ian Sub- Co n tin en t Pub li s hed From the U S Ca pi ta l Web Site: WWW.Indiathisweek.us Volume 36 No. 32 Washington DC. Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800; 301-445-1868 E-Mail: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Friday August 7, 2026 Five Indian-American Girls Among 10 Finalists in 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge By Geeta Goindi August 3, 2026 – Indian-American students continue to make their mark in science and innovation, with five girls of Indian descent earning places among the ten national finalists in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge, one of America’s premier middle school STEM competitions. The Indian-American finalists are Aaisha Asif, Raji Doshi, Arika Kundu, Sharvi Mahajan, and Naboshree Santra, all selected for their innovative projects addressing real-world challenges ranging from environmental sustainability and agriculture to food systems, public health and transportation safety. The ten finalists, ages 11 to 14, will compete October 12-13 at the 3M Innovation Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, where they will face a series of live scientific challenges, present their projects to a panel of judges, and vie for the $25,000 grand prize and the title of America’s Top Young Scientist. Selected from students across the country, the finalists were recognized for their scientific creativity, problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and commitment to developing practical solutions that can benefit their communities and the world. Each student identified an everyday problem, developed an original solution, and presented the idea through a short video submission. Their projects align with two of 3M’s Indian-American finalists are Aaisha Asif, Raji Doshi, Arika Kundu, Sharvi Mahajan, and Naboshree Santra FINALISTS 4 SEE PAGE Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha to Replace 135-Year-Old Banking Law With Digital-Era Framework New Delhi [India], August 3 (ANI): The government on Monday introduced a bill aimed at strengthening existing provisions to meet the requirements of the modern banking system through a legal framework that recognizes digital banking records and aligns the law with contemporary bank- ing practices. According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons of the Bill, the existing law was enacted at a time when banking records were maintained only in physical form and no longer reflects the technological changes that have transformed the banking sector. The Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill, 2026, expands the definition of “bankers’ books” to include records maintained in both physical and electronic forms. It also covers records stored on digital media, cloud platforms and other electronic systems, recognizing the shift toward technology-driven banking operations. The Bill seeks to broaden the definition of “bankers’ books” to include all forms of records maintained by banks, whether in physical, electronic, digital, virtual, cloud-based or any other format, thereby BANKING LAW SEE PAGE 2
INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026 US student visas to Indian, Chinese nationals see sharp decline in 2025, says CIS report Washington DC [US], August 5 (ANI): The number of US F-1 student visas issued to Indian and Chinese nationals witnessed a significant decline in 2025 compared with previous years, according to a report by the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS), which said the reduction could have implications for American students, the labour market and national security. According to the CIS study, students from India and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) accounted for more than half of all international students enrolled at US post-secondary institutions during the 2024-25 academic year. The report compared F-1 visa issuances during the May-August period from 2017 to 2025, while excluding 2020 from the analysis due to the significant decline in visa issuance caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Citing data from the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) annual census, the report said India had 363,019 students, and China had 265,919 students in the US during the academic year, together representing 53 per cent of the total 1,177,766 foreign students.The study said that F-1 student visa issuances to nationals of both countries declined sharply during the May-August 2025 period, which typically sees the highest number of student visas issued ahead of the academic year. According to CIS data, the US issued 22,149 F-1 visas to Indian nationals between May and August 2025, a decline of 60 per cent from the average number issued during the 2017-19 and 2021-24 periods, when the figure stood at 55,717. The number also marked a 62 per cent decrease from 2024, when 58,694 visas were issued. For Chinese nationals, the number of F-1 visas issued during the same period fell to 40,034 in 2025, down 46 per cent from the 2017-19 and 2021-24 average of 73,853, and 34 per cent lower than the 61,075 visas issued in 2024, the report said. The CIS report noted that it selected the May-August period for comparison, as most F-1 visas are issued during these months in preparation for the upcoming academic year. It added that in 2024, 77 per cent of all F-1 visas issued to Indian nationals and 76 per cent issued to Chinese nationals were granted during this period.The report highlighted the role of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, under which foreign students who complete their degrees can work in the US. According to IIE data cited by CIS, 294,253 foreign students out of more than one million international students in the US during 2024-25 had completed their degrees and were working under OPT.The report said Indian and Chinese nationals accounted for nearly 70 per cent of these OPT participants, with India representing 143,740 participants and China accounting for 61,981. Citing data from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), CIS said that of the Bill Introduced in Lok Sabha to Replace 135-Year-Old Banking Law With Digital-Era Framework BANKING LAWS FROM PAGE 1 creating a comprehensive, technology-neutral and future-ready legal framework. The proposed legislation also seeks to standardize the certification process for producing bank records as evidence and formally recognizes the admissibility of electronic banking records in legal proceedings, subject to conditions laid down in the Bill. It further em- powers the Central Government to prescribe additional certification requirements and extend the law to entities engaged in banking activities through notification. According to the Bill, the objective is to ensure that the legal framework governing banking evidence keeps pace with evolving technology while maintaining the authenticity and reliability of records presented before courts and other authorities. The Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, Immigration Lawyer Law Office of Ryan Morgan Knight Email or call for free consultation ryan@immigrationknight.com 1 (888) 735-0560 Ryan Knight Licensed to practice immigration law Nationwide; Licensed to practice art law in Maryland 1891, was enacted to facilitate the use of certified copies of bank records as evidence in legal proceedings without requiring the production of original records. The law was introduced at a time when banking records were predominantly maintained in physical form. The Statement of Objects and Reasons noted that with the advancement of technology and the growth of digital banking, bank records are increasingly created, stored and maintained using modern technology. “It has, therefore, become necessary to modernize and strengthen the existing legal framework to meet the requirements of the present banking system,” it said. The Bill seeks to establish a legal framework for the admissibility and certification of bank records in an increasingly digital banking environment. (ANI) 165,524 foreign students authorised to participate in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) OPT in 2024, 68 per cent were Indian or Chinese nationals. Indian citizens accounted for 79,331 participants, while Chinese citizens accounted for 33,807. The report argued that reductions in the number of foreign students from India and China could reduce the OPT pipeline and affect the availability of foreign workers entering the US labour market. The CIS report also raised concerns regarding national security, particularly in relation to Chinese students studying in sensitive fields such as STEM. The report alleged that the Chinese government has been pursuing military and technological advancement and said some Chinese students and researchers could face pressure to assist state objectives.It cited remarks by former US officials who have warned about risks related to technology transfer, espionage and intellectual property theft. The report quoted former Trump administration Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Edward Ramotowski as saying in 2018 that “foreign stu- dents, often with no nefarious intent in their plan of study in the United States, are later co-opted to work for their government.” It also cited former CIA officer Joe Augustyn, who said, “We know without a doubt that anytime a graduate student from China comes to the US, they are briefed when they go, and briefed when they come back.” However, the study acknowledged that not all Chinese students come to the US with malicious intent but argued that reducing the number of students from China in sensitive fields could help lower risks related to technology transfer. The report also examined the relationship between OPT and the H-1B visa programme, arguing that OPT has expanded the pool of foreign workers beyond congressionally established H-1B limits. It noted that the H-1B programme has an annual cap of 65,000 visas, with an additional 20,000 exemptions for foreign graduates with advanced US degrees, while OPT has no numerical limit.CIS said that by 2024, the number of foreign nationals working under OPT and STEM OPT had reached 505,590, which it said was comparable to the scale of the H-1B programme. The report argued that reducing reliance on foreign graduates through OPT could benefit American students and workers by creating more opportunities in competitive sectors. (ANI) New Delhi [India], August 5 (ANI): A total of 1,03,488 senior citizens and 4,63,114 women lodged financial cyber fraud complaints amounting to Rs 7,769.63 crore in 2025, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) informed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar shared the information with the Upper House of Parliament based on inputs received from the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCRP) while responding through a written reply to a query of a parliamentarian. The MoS also shared data (available on the NCRP), which mentions that a total of 1,03,488 senior citizens filed financial fraud complaints of Rs 4,005.12 crore while 4,63,114 women lodged complaints of Rs 3,764.51 crore financial fraud during 2025. In further response to the query “whether the NCRP has assessed the proportion of cyber fraud victims who are senior citizens and women, and the quantum of losses suffered by these categories”; Bandi said police and public order are state subjects under the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India. Accordingly, he said the states and Union Territories (UTs) are primarily responsible for the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of cybercrime. The MoS also stated that the central government, through the MHA, supplements the efforts of states and UTs by providing policy guidance, technological support, capacity-building assistance, and financial resources to strengthen cybercrime management and enforcement capabilities. He said the NCRP has been launched as a part of the I4C (Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre)-- an attached office of the MHA established in the national capital-- to enable the public to report incidents pertaining to all types of cyber crimes, with special focus on cyber crimes against women and children. The Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS) under I4C was launched in 2021 for immediate reporting of financial frauds and to stop siphoning off funds by fraudsters. (ANI) Over 1 lakh senior citizens, 4.63 lakh women lodged financial cyber fraud complaints amounting to Rs 7,769 crore in 2025: Govt
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026 Bypoll shockwave: Youth anger costly for BJP as Prashant Kishor shatters saffron stronghold in Bankipur, Congress retain Datia Datia/Bankipur/Manjalpur (Madhya Pradesh/Bihar/Gujarat) [India], August 3 (ANI): The Bharatiya Janata Party suffered a blow on Monday, losing the saffron citadel in Bihar’s Bankipur, capitalising on widespread voter disillusionment and nationwide student unrest. In Bihar’s urban bastion of Bankipur–a saffron stronghold since 1995 vacated by BJP National President Nitin Nabin–Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kishor secured his maiden electoral victory by a resounding 19,324 votes.Simultaneously, in Madhya Pradesh’s Datia, the Congress retained the key seat after defeating the BJP by over 6,000 votes. The BJP’s sole consolation came from Gujarat, where it retained the Manjalpur seat in Vadodara, albeit with a drastically reduced victory margin compared to the 2022 elections. BJP retained the seat, with Satish Patel beating Congress‘s Bhikhabhai Rabari by 30,630 votes. But that margin is a steep fall from the 1,00,754-vote landslide the party won there in the 2022 assembly election. Coming on the heels of intense youth-led protests over exam paper leaks and rising unemployment, the loss signals a shifting political wind across the Hindi heartland, exposing vulnerable fault lines in the BJP’s traditional strongholds. One of the major political upsets for the BJP is Bankipur, which fell vacant after the party’s national president Nitin Nabin, who had represented it for five consecutive terms, moved to the Rajya Sabha earlier this year. Prashant Kishor had said he was not looking for a “safe seat” and had deliberately chosen to contest from Bankipur to send a message that Bihar’s voters should move beyond caste and religion. The win marks Kishor’s first electoral victory since he launched Jan Suraaj, and comes barely nine months after the party failed to open its account in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. The by-poll recorded a voter turnout of 34.24 per cent, according to the Election Commission.Following the results, Kishor said, “This time, the people of Bankipur have made us win, and they have done so because they have hope and trust that we will raise our voices for their rights to the best of our ability, and we will make every possible effort to ensure nothing wrong happens to them.” Kishor said his agenda had never been limited to a single constituency but on a broader goal for the state.”Indeed, the Bankipur election was not just to elect an MLA for Bankipur. From day one, we set an agenda, and our goal has been that since the NDA and BJP got a majority in Bihar… people expect a good person to lead Bihar so that Bihar develops, Bihar’s children progress, there’s quality education, employment, and an end to migration,” he said. He then went further, directly naming Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and calling on the BJP’s top leadership to reconsider its choice for the state’s top post. “The mandate that has come from Bankipur today is not just about electing an MLA. The people of Bankipur have sent a message to the BJP’s central leadership to appoint a better person as Chief Minister in Bihar instead of Samrat Choudhary,” Kishor said.The BJP’s defeat in Bankipur drew sharp barbs from Opposition leaders, including AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav. Taking a biting swipe at the ruling party, Yadav remarked, “Those who arrogantly believed they could make God dance have ultimately been made to dance to His tune.” “The BJP has lost even the seat of its national president. Prashant Kishor ji has won from Bankipur with a huge margin. Heartiest congratulations to him,” Kejriwal said on X, referring to the seat previously held by BJP national president Nitin Nabin, who had vacated it after being elected to the Rajya Sabha.In Madhya Pradesh, Congress retained the seat by defeating BJP nominee Ashutosh Tiwari by a margin of 6,016 votes. Congress candidate Ghanshyam Singh secured 66,757 votes, while Tiwari polled 60,741 votes after all 15 rounds of counting. The bypoll was necessitated following the disqualification of sitting Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti in April, after a Delhi court convicted and sentenced him in a bank fraud and cheating case. BJP candidate Ashutosh Tiwari thanked voters, party workers and leaders for their support and said he would accept the people’s mandate with humility. Speaking to the reporters, Tiwari said, “Every one of our dedicated workers is standing with full enthusiasm, and the counting is still underway. The Datia case is not hidden from you, so many of your questions already have answers. For now, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the voters, our workers, and party leaders for their blessings, hard work, confidence, and commitment to advancing the party’s ideology and taking the government’s welfare schemes to the grassroots. I will accept whatever mandate the people give with humility.”Re- acting to the results, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav accepted the verdict; however, he pointed out that the ruling BJP had actually expanded its vote base in the constituency despite the loss. The one bright spot for the party came in Gujarat, where BJP’s Satish Patel routed Congress‘s Bhikha Rabari in Manjalpur by more than 30,000 votes. Patel secured 55,481 votes in the bypolls as Congress‘s Bhikhabhai Rabari trailed with 24,851 votes. The Manjalpur seat fell vacant following the demise of sitting BJP MLA Yogeshbhai Narandas Patel, who had won the seat in the past three elections. (ANI) Five Indian-American Girls Among 10 Finalists in 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge FINALISTS FROM PAGE 1 technology platforms: climate technology and safety. Aaisha Asif, 12, of Sarasota, Florida, a sixth-grade student at Pine View School, developed an eco-friendly adhesive inspired by the natural proteins mussels use to cling to wet surfaces. Her innovation aims to reduce the use of conventional glues that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contributing to air pollution and health concerns. “By studying natural adhesion systems and experimenting with different bio-based materials and crosslinking agents, I aim to create a safer, more sustainable alternative that still performs effectively across different surfaces,” Aaisha said. Raji Doshi, 12, of Farmington, Connecticut, a seventh-grade student at Talcott Mountain Academy, designed an innovative coastal solution using algae and natural calcium buffers to reduce ocean acidity and improve marine health. “Climate change feels urgent to me in a way that is hard to ignore,” Raji said. “I wanted to work on something that mattered, not just something that would earn a grade.” She added that the challenge appealed to her because it rewards students who not only develop strong scientific ideas but also communicate their real-world impact effectively. Arika Kundu, 13, of Shorewood, Minnesota, a seventh-grade student at Minnetonka Middle School East, created LIGNEX, an innovative method that uses agri- cultural waste, including peanut shells, to remove pesticide residue from produce, making food safer through an accessible, science-based solution. A recipient of last year’s Minnesota State Merit Award, Arika said she entered the competition “to improve my innovation and turn it into a product that everyone can benefit from.” Sharvi Mahajan, 14, of San Diego, California, an eighth-grade student at Bernardo Heights Middle School, developed NeuroDrive Alert, an advanced system that monitors fatigue over time to predict microsleep and improve safety for drivers and people working in other high-risk environments. Sharvi hopes to become either a computational neuroscientist or the founder of a technolo- gy startup. “I have always been mesmerized by the brain and the mysteries hidden within it,” she said, adding that her passion for neuroscience and artificial intelligence inspired her project. Naboshree Santra, 11, of Oviedo, Florida, a sixth-grade student at Jackson Heights Middle School, developed biodegradable soil-shade balls that help reduce evaporation and retain soil moisture, offering a simple, environmentally friendly solution for drought-affected agriculture. “I entered the 3M Young Scientist Challenge because I want to better understand how my biodegradable mulch could be developed into something more useful for the real world,” she said. The remaining finalists are Ahmed Ab- delsalam, Aiden Jo, Roy Kim, Millie Pradawong, and Abigail Stein. Overall, this year’s finalist class includes seven girls and three boys. Each finalist will participate in a summer mentorship program, working one-on-one with a 3M scientist to refine their innovations before the national finals. Discovery Education is partnering with 3M to co-sponsor the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Together, the organizations operate the Young Scientist Lab program which includes the annual competition, state merit recognition, and STEM learning resources for students. “The finalists of this year’s 3M Young Scientist Challenge prove you can be a scientist at any age,” said Brian Shaw, chief executive officer of Discovery Education. “Each remarkable student pursued their curiosity with persistence, turning an idea into an innovation. We cannot wait to see where their ideas take them.” Now in its 19th year, the Young Scientist Challenge has inspired thousands of young innovators to explore STEM, think creatively, and develop solutions to real-world challenges. “The 3M Young Scientist Challenge brings together student curiosity, scientific thinking and 3M mentorship to turn promising ideas into real solutions,” said William Brown, chairman and chief executive officer of 3M. He added the company is focused on helping these young innovators strengthen their ideas and apply science in ways that can make a meaningful impact.
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The Poetic Pen INDIA THIS WEEK- Augst 7, 2026 If Today Were My Last By Rajan George If today were my last, And I were bound for my eternal home, What would I leave behind To bless the lives of others? How would I be remembered For the days I spent upon this earth? What have I gained? What have I given? Whom have I helped? Whom have I hurt? What was my purpose? How will I end? What have I done To leave this world a better place? You know you’ve labored hard To sweeten your own life And that of your family, who share it with you. Yet, in that relentless pursuit, How often have morals been sacrificed, Leaving wounded hearts behind? Hedonistic pleasures And sensual gratification Have marked your days. Little did your conscience stir At the pain you caused others— Or if it did, You silenced its voice And carried on. Your life is spent in futility, For all that you have gathered Will never follow you beyond the grave, Where you must bid farewell To all that you possess And everyone you love. You may leave behind Vast estates and great fortunes For your descendants. Yet many who inherit great wealth, Without knowing the sacrifices By which it was earned, Often squander it with ease And are reduced to poverty. Jesus spoke of a wealthy man who said, “You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry.” But the Lord said to him, “You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?”0 Life is not ours to possess. God gives it, And God takes it away. So while breath remains, Let us love without measure, Serve without seeking reward, Give more than we receive, And live in such a way That when our final day arrives, We leave behind Not merely wealth, But a legacy of faith, Compassion, And lives forever changed. INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026 “All 13 Indian nationals have been rescued”: MEA after Indian vessel sinks off Yemen after attack New Delhi [India], August 5 (ANI): The Ministry of External Affairs on Tuesday condemned the attack on Indian-flagged commercial vessel ‘MSV Faize Noore Oliya’, which sank in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen, and said all 13 Indian nationals aboard the vessel have been rescued. In a statement, the MEA said, “We condemn the attack on the Indian flagged commercial vessel, MSV Faize Noore Oliya, that sank in the Red Sea, off the coast of Yemen on August 4, 2026.” “All 13 Indian nationals have been rescued,” the Ministry said, adding that the Indian Embassy in Riyadh is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Yemeni authorities for the safety and security of the crew.”We thank the Yemeni authorities for their support,” the MEA said. The Ministry also expressed concern over continued attacks on commercial shipping in the region. “The continuing incidents of attacks on commercial shipping in the region are deeply worrisome,” it said.” The targeting of commercial shipping in the region must end, and free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through the international waterways in the region, in keeping with international law, must be restored at the earliest,” the MEA added. The statement came on the same day after Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said India strongly condemned the attack on Indian mech- INDIA THIS WEEK Phone: 301-445-0200; 301-917-4800 www.indiathisweek.online India This Week is published every Friday by ADV Solutions Inc, Views expressed in this paper are those of the individual writers and not necessarily of India This Week. India This Week accepts no liability for the errors in advertisements or in any of its reports. For remedial actions any errors should be brought to the attention of the editor by the information provided below. Publisher: Chief Editor: Contributing Editors: Dr. Babu Stephen Rajan George Saju Mathew Isaac George Asst. Editors: Manu Jacob Sherena Panjikkaran Special Business Correspondent Elisha B. Pulivarti Business Coordinators Rajan C. George Jithu Johny Panjikkaran Dr. Renuka Misra, Special Correspondent: Geeta Goindi Community Coordinator: Prof. Vinod Goel India Office Manesh Krishna Columnists: Anadi Naik World Religions Dr. Sam Prasad Jillella Photo Journalist: Mathew Karmel, System Admn. & Maintenance: Rajan C. George Layout & Graphics: Prinston Samuel, Business Affairs: Mrs. Molly George CALL US • 301-445-0200 • 301-917-4800 e-Mails: Advertisements: indiathisweekads@gmail.com Press Releases: indiathisweekpress@yahoo.com Web: www.indiathisweek.online anised sailing vessel ‘Faize Noore Oliya’ near Yemeni waters, after the vessel capsized and sank, with all 14 seafarers, including 13 Indians, safely rescued.In a post on X, Sonowal said, “Indian MSV Faize Noore Oliya has been hit by a projectile near Yemeni waters, causing the vessel to capsize and sink. “India strongly condemns this unprovoked attack on the defenseless mechanised sailing vessel. The safety of our people is our supreme priority & I am relieved to inform that ALL 14 seafarers (including 13 Indians) have been safely rescued by the Yemeni Coast Guard and brought to the Port of Mokha,” he said. The Minister added that he had instructed the Director General Maritime Administration (DGMA) to take immediate steps in coordination with all agencies to ensure the security of Indian seafarers in the region and provide necessary assistance to the rescued crew. According to Anadolu News Agency, citing Yemen’s government-aligned National Resistance Forces (NRF), the vessel was attacked while sailing about 13 nautical Remember: miles south of Al Hudaydah, causing it to sink. The Yemeni Navy and Coast Guard subsequently carried out a joint rescue operation, rescuing all 14 crew members, including 13 Indian sailors and one Yemeni national. The crew were taken to safety and provided medical assistance, with no casualties reported, according to the report. The National Resistance Forces (NRF) are deployed along Yemen’s western coast near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and are led by Tareq Saleh, a member of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council. The incident comes amid renewed concerns over maritime security in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait following a resurgence of attacks targeting commercial vessels. On July 20, the Houthi group announced what it described as a “naval blockade” on Saudi Arabia, prompting Riyadh to warn that it would respond firmly to threats targeting its vessels. The Bab al-Mandab Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea and is a key international shipping route. (ANI) “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.…
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INDIA THIS WEEK FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026 Eight Dead, Eight Missing as Heavy Rains Batter Kerala; CM Reviews Relief, Rahul Gandhi Appeals for United effort Thiruvananthapuram, August 3: Heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across Kerala, leaving at least eight people dead, eight missing, and 13 injured, while thousands have been displaced as flooding and landslides affect several districts. According to official figures, 5,792 people have been shifted to 209 relief camps across the state. Authorities reported that 27 houses have been completely destroyed, while 196 others have suffered partial damage. Chief Minister Reviews Situation Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has convened a virtual meeting of all district collectors to assess the overall rain situation and review the state’s preparedness and relief measures. The meeting follows widespread rainfall that triggered flooding in low-lying areas and landslides in several districts. In Pathanamthitta district, water levels have risen sharply in Ranni, which was recently affected by flash floods. With the Moozhiyar Dam catchment area under Red Alert, officials warned that the dam may need to be opened if water levels continue to rise. Residents living along the banks of the Pamba River have been advised to remain alert and be prepared to move to safer locations if necessary. The Chief Minister has remained in constant contact with ministers overseeing various districts and district administrations to coordinate rescue and relief operations. Although rainfall has reduced compared to previous days, authorities have cautioned that residents, particularly those in hilly regions, should remain vigilant. The government said all necessary preparations are in place to respond to any emergency. Cleaning and san- itation work has already begun in flood-affected areas, and political workers, volunteers, and community organizations have been urged to participate in rehabilitation efforts. Government Announces Assistance The state government assured that it would provide comprehensive assistance to affected families, including financial aid for those who lost family members, homes, crops, and livelihoods. Authorities also said those injured in rain-related incidents would receive the best possible medical treatment, while relief operations would continue until normalcy is restored. Public representatives, volunteers, and government agencies remain actively engaged in rescue and rehabilitation work, and citizens have been encouraged to approach local authorities for any assistance. Woman killed in Haryana’s Panchkula, maid under suspicion Panchkula (Haryana) [India], August 5 (ANI): A woman was murdered allegedly by her domestic help in Haryana’s Panchkula, police said on Wednesday. The woman had gone to enquire with the maid about the missing gold jewellery. After the murder, the accused maid concealed the woman’s body under a rug. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Panchkula, Aditi Singh stated that the incident came to light after the victim’s husband reported her missing. “We received information from an elderly man at our Outpost No. 21 that his wife was missing. Our investigation revealed that the wife had accused her maid of stealing gold jewellery and had gone to speak with her about it. Upon searching the building, we found the woman’s body on the roof. When we found the body, it was concealed beneath a rug. A forensic team arrived at the scene, and police teams immediately began searching for the accused,” DCP Singh told ANI.DCP said that they have opened an investigation. “During the search, we found the accused woman and her son hiding nearby; so far, the maid (Sunita), her husband, and her son have been named as accused in the case. We are currently investigating the sequence of events and determining if an attempt was made to hide the body; the inquiry continues. The investigation is ongoing... The cause of death will be determined after the post-mortem, which is currently underway,” the DCP added.”It has come to light that the maid had been working for the woman for 15 years; trusting her, the family had never registered her details,” Singh remarked. DCP appealed to residents to verify the credentials of their domestic help.” Through this platform, I would appeal to everyone--whether they live alone, have children abroad, or live with their families--to ensure they get their domestic help verified; it is a crucial safety measure that ensures your security,” she stated. Rahul Gandhi Expresses Condolences Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and urged Congress workers to actively support relief efforts. In a post on X, Gandhi said he was deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the heavy rains and extended his condolences to the fami- lies of those who lost their lives. He expressed hope that those still missing would be found safely and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. Gandhi noted that the state government was making every effort to support affected families and coordinate relief operations. He appealed to Congress workers and volunteers to assist the ongoing disaster response in every possible way and urged residents, especially those living in hilly regions, to remain vigilant and follow official safety advisories. “Keralam stands united in this difficult hour. I stand firmly with every affected family,” Gandhi said. Authorities continue to monitor the weather closely as rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts remain underway across the state. MALAPPURAM, India, Aug. 3 (ANI): Multiple landslides triggered by heavy rainfall struck the Nadukani-Parappanangadi State Highway in Kerala’s Malappuram district, disrupting traffic and prompting authorities to warn of additional slides. The first landslide was followed by several more at the same location between Edeypalam and Karathodu on the Malappuram-Vengara route, where an entire hillside collapsed onto the highway. Large amounts of soil, rocks and trees crashed onto the roadway, with debris also falling into the nearby Kadalundi River. A second landslide occurred while police and fire department personnel were assessing the site. Authorities have completely closed the highway, with vehicles traveling toward Malappuram being diverted through Konompara. The landslide occurred about 150 meters (490 feet) from Straight Path International School. Officials have declared the area highly dangerous and warned that further landslides are possible. Local residents said a similar landslide occurred at the same location in 2019. Firefighters and police continue efforts to clear debris from the roadway and restore traffic. Earlier Monday, Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said the death toll from flooding and landslides across the state had risen to 15, with seven people still missing. The chief minister announced Rs. 10,000 (about $115) in funeral assistance for the families of those killed in the rain-related incidents and directed the Agriculture Department to submit a proposal to increase compensation for crop damage. Addressing reporters in Thiruvanan- thapuram after a meeting with district collectors, Satheesan said approximately 165 hectares (408 acres) of agricultural land had been damaged, affecting 3,596 farmers. “As of 9 a.m., 11,018 people are staying in 316 relief camps across the state. So far, 15 deaths have been reported. Two people died in the Poonjar constituency in Kottayam, while a child died after falling into a tank at Puthuppally. Two deaths were reported from Idukki, and one each from Vizhinjam and Muthalapozhi. One person is missing each from Vizhinjam and Muthalapozhi. In Malappuram, four people have died, and one person is missing. In Kannur, one person has died, and two are missing, while one death has been reported from Kozhikode. So far, 15 deaths have been reported across the state, while seven people are still missing,” Satheesan said. Heavy Rains Trigger Major Landslides on Kerala Highway; Traffic Disrupted in Malappuram
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026 Assam Flood Situation Improves in Some Areas, But Over 136,000 Remain Affected said the flooding has become an annual problem due to inadequate drainage. “We observed that this is a recurring issue every year. There is a persistent problem with the water flow system. If a more effective drainage route could be established, it would significantly reduce flooding. We request the administration to find a permanent solution,” Bora said. Local resident Dhurbo Das explained that heavy rainfall in neighboring Nagaland sends large volumes of water into the area, where poor drainage causes prolonged flooding. Golaghat/Dehradun, August 3: The flood situation in parts of Assam showed signs of improvement on Monday, but thousands of families remain displaced as floodwaters continue to inundate several low-lying areas. Authorities are continuing relief and rehabilitation efforts while state leaders push for long-term solutions to recurring floods and riverbank erosion. According to the latest official figures, floods continue to affect five districts—Golaghat, Jorhat, Sivasagar, Charaideo, and Dhemaji. A total of 21 revenue circles and 335 villages remain impacted. More than 136,203 people have been affected by the floods, while approximately 15,422 hectares of agricultural land have suffered damage. The disaster has claimed three lives in Sivasagar district, and two people remain missing, both from the same district. Officials said no urban areas have been affected by flooding. Guwahati/Dibrugarh/Sivasagar, August 3: As Assam continues to recover from devastating floods that have ravaged Upper Assam, relief efforts received a significant boost after Reliance Foundation Founder and Chairperson Nita M. Ambani announced a contribution of Rs. 21 crore to the Assam Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. At the same time, the Assam government expanded financial assistance, compensation measures, and rehabilitation efforts for thousands of affected families. Announcing the contribution, Nita Ambani expressed solidarity with the people of Assam. “Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest solidarity are with the people of Assam. My heart goes out to every family affected by these devastating floods. Please know that you are not alone,” she said. The donation comes as Reliance Foundation intensifies its multi-sector relief operations in the worst-hit districts of Sivasagar and Charaideo, where teams of volunteers and experts have been working alongside state authorities. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma thanked Nita Ambani and the Reliance Foundation for their continued support during times of crisis, recalling the organization’s assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. He said the latest contribution reflects the Foundation’s enduring commitment to the people of Assam and praised its ongoing efforts in providing food, emergency shelter, healthcare, clean drinking water, and veterinary services. “Our teams from Reliance Foundation and Vantara, together with volunteers from across the Reliance family, are working alongside the Government of Assam and local communities. We stand with you today, and we will continue to stand with you in the days ahead as together we rebuild lives and restore hope,” Nita Ambani said. Relief Operations Underway Reliance Foundation aims to assist at least 50,000 vulnerable people across the worst-affected districts through a comprehensive relief programme that includes: Restoration of damaged drinking water systems and water purification units. Community kitchens serving hot meals. Desilting and restoration of health centres. Emergency shelters and essential supplies. Door-to-door veterinary care for livestock through Vantara. Close coordination with district authorities to ensure relief reaches the most vulnerable families. The Foundation said its community-driven rehabilitation programme is focused on helping displaced families return to their homes as quickly as possible. Chief Minister Reviews Flood Damage Meanwhile, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conducted his second visit to the flood-hit districts of Sivasagar and Charaideo, inspecting affected areas in the Nazira, Mahmora, and Sonari Assembly constituencies. Travelling by tractor and boat through inundated villages, the Chief Minister interacted with residents and reviewed ongoing relief operations. He announced that government officials would begin door-to-door damage assessments from August 9, after which compensation for permanent losses would be processed. Families Still Unable to Return Home Although water levels have receded in parts of Golaghat district, many residents under the Komarbandha Gram Panchayat, including villages such as Kuliapani, Kapuhating, Na-Pamua, Rajnakhat, Kharjan, Mahatgaon, and Kumargaon, remain unable to return to their homes. During a relief distribution visit, social worker Siddhartha Bora “There is no proper outlet for the water to drain. If this water could be diverted efficiently into the Dhansiri River, it would not accumulate here. An alternate diversion channel is urgently needed,” Das said. Residents Prioritize Rescue Over Personal Be- longings In one flood-hit area, a resident recounted how families abandoned their possessions to rescue stranded neighbors. “We first moved the elderly and children to safety. We in- 9 tended to return for our belongings, but there wasn’t time. People kept calling for help, asking us to rescue their children. We left everything behind and focused on saving lives,” he said. Reliance Foundation Announces Rs. 21 Crore for Assam Flood Relief; Government Steps Up Compensation and Direct Aid The Chief Minister also assured residents that: Health camps would be organised in flood-affected areas. Farmers would receive assistance to restart agricultural activities. The Sundarpukhuri embankment would be strengthened to reduce future flooding. During the visit, Sarma met the family of Nirupama Duwara and Nisha Duwara, who lost their lives after being swept away by floodwaters on July 19, and conveyed his condolences. In Charaideo district, the Chief Minister travelled by boat to Chomoni village, where he distributed Rs. 4 lakh each to the families of 14 flood victims, amounting to Rs. 56 lakh in financial assistance. Later, in Sonari, he visited Jaya Primary School, distributed textbooks and school uniforms to students affected by the floods, and handed over Rs. 5 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to the families of five people who lost their lives in the recent disaster. Rs. 112 Crore Interim Relief Released Through DBT Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Sarma launched an interim flood-relief package worth nearly Rs. 112 crore, transferring financial assistance directly into the bank accounts of approximately 75,000 affected families across Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat, and Golaghat districts. Each eligi- ble household received Rs. 15,000 through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, with the state-wide disbursement scheduled to continue through August 5. The government also announced: Rs. 2 lakh each for flood-damaged schools and Anganwadi centres. Distribution of benefits under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. Calls for Permanent Flood Solutions Although floodwaters have begun receding in parts of Golaghat district, many villages remain submerged, leaving numerous families displaced. Residents of villages under Komarbandha Gram Panchayat, including Kuliapani, Kapuhating, Na-Pamua, Rajnakhat, Kharjan, Mahatgaon, and Kumargaon, urged the government to develop a permanent drainage system. Social worker Siddhartha Bora, who visited the affected villages during relief distribution, said inadequate water drainage has made flooding an annual crisis. He appealed to the administration to establish a more effective water flow system to prevent recurring inundation. Relief and rehabilitation operations continue across the affected districts as authorities monitor the evolving flood situation and work toward longterm mitigation measures.
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