July 27, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: National

PM Modi Launches ₹13,500 Crore Projects in Bihar, Flags Off Four New Trains on National Panchayati Raj Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Bihar on Thursday, launched and inaugurated development projects worth approximately ₹13,500 crore. The event was marked by the inauguration of vital infrastructure projects and the launch of new train services aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting regional development. Among the key highlights was the flagging off of four new trains: Marking the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, the Prime Minister also inaugurated crucial rail infrastructure projects including: In a push towards energy and infrastructure growth, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for an LPG bottling plant with a rail unloading facility at Hathua in Gopalganj district. With an investment of around ₹340 crore, the plant is expected to enhance the efficiency of bulk LPG transportation and streamline supply chains in the region. The power sector also received a significant boost as the PM laid foundation stones for projects worth over ₹1,170 crore and inaugurated multiple projects exceeding ₹5,030 crore under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme in Bihar. Furthering rural empowerment, PM Modi distributed benefits worth around ₹930 crore under the Community Investment Fund to more than 2 lakh Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Bihar as part of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). Additionally, he handed over sanction letters to 15 lakh new beneficiaries under the PMAY-Gramin scheme and released instalments to 10 lakh PMAY-G beneficiaries across the country. He also conducted Grih Pravesh (house-warming) for 1 lakh PMAY-G and 54,000 PMAY-Urban houses in Bihar by handing over keys to selected beneficiaries. The visit highlighted the government’s commitment to inclusive development, infrastructure expansion, and rural empowerment in Bihar and across India.

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Editor03 mins

Samsung Considers Shifting Manufacturing Base from Vietnam to India Amid Tariff Concerns

South Korean electronics giant Samsung is reportedly evaluating the possibility of relocating a portion of its smartphone and electronics manufacturing operations from Vietnam to India. The strategic move is aimed at mitigating risks arising from potential US tariffs on Vietnamese exports, according to a report by Moneycontrol. Sources familiar with the development revealed that Samsung has already initiated early-stage discussions with Indian contract manufacturing firms such as Bhagwati (Micromax) and Dixon Technologies. These talks are focused on assessing the feasibility of shifting parts of its production lines to India. “Yes, talks have begun with Indian EMS players, including their existing partners. Not just Samsung, all other companies with a base in Vietnam are exploring possibilities to shift some production to India,” a source privy to the matter told Moneycontrol on the condition of anonymity. “Samsung and partners are discussing production adjustments in favour of India.” Vietnam currently functions as Samsung’s largest global manufacturing base. However, with rising trade tensions and the looming threat of tariffs—especially from the US—the electronics major is looking at India as a strategic alternative to serve international markets more smoothly and cost-effectively. India has been aggressively promoting itself as a global manufacturing hub under its Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and other government-backed incentives for electronics production. If Samsung proceeds with its plans, it could mark a significant boost for India’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem and enhance the country’s role in global supply chains.

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Editor02 mins

Audit Flags Delay in Transfer of Kochi Corporation Employees’ NPS Shares

The Local Fund Audit Department has raised serious concerns over delays in the transfer of National Pension Scheme (NPS) contributions for employees of the Kochi Municipal Corporation in its audit report for the year 2023–24. The report points out that the civic body deposited ₹2.11 crore as its share and dues from regular staff and ₹3.81 crore from contingent staff in the account of the Director of Urban Affairs during the fiscal year. However, the audit observed that these transfers were not made in a timely manner as mandated. According to a 2014 circular, both the employee’s deducted contribution and the employer’s matching share must be transferred to a special pension account the day after the deduction is made. Details of the beneficiaries along with the transaction ID must then be forwarded to the NPS account. The audit report notes that Kochi Corporation has not adhered to this requirement and has sought an explanation for the delay. In response, the corporation stated that more than 700 of its employees are enrolled in the NPS. It explained that while regular staff salaries are processed using SPARK software, the transfer of pension-related data to the NPS database requires processing through Sthapana software. Only after generating a supplementary salary bill can data be transferred to the Sthapana system. The corporation added that this technical requirement causes delays, and data is usually ported only at the end of each month. The civic body also cited occasional shortages in its own funds as another reason for delays in transferring the NPS shares. The audit wing has directed the corporation to urgently resolve these technical and procedural issues. It warned that the ongoing delays are resulting in financial losses to employees. The audit department emphasized that the NPS contributions of all eligible staff should be transferred promptly to the designated account maintained by the Director of Urban Affairs to ensure compliance and protect employee interests.

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Editor03 mins

Pahalgam Terror Attack: Pony Operator Syed Adil Hussain Shah Dies a Hero, India Retaliates with Diplomatic Measures

In an act of extraordinary bravery, 30-year-old Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a pony operator from Hapatnard village in Anantnag, laid down his life while attempting to protect tourists during a brutal terror attack at the Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Locally known as a “ponywallah,” Shah was ferrying tourists on horseback when the attack unfolded. Eyewitnesses and a survivor confirmed that Shah confronted one of the terrorists and attempted to disarm him, showing incredible courage under fire. He was shot three times in the chest and succumbed to his injuries on the spot. A Community Mourns, A Nation Salutes His funeral, held in his native village on April 23, saw hundreds of mourners, including Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who praised Shah’s courage and offered condolences to his grieving family. Shah was the sole breadwinner of his household, and his death has left a profound void. “Syed Adil Hussain Shah confronted terrorists to save others. His sacrifice won’t be forgotten,” said the Chief Minister, vowing support for the victims’ families. India’s Swift Diplomatic Retaliation In response to the attack, India launched a series of strong diplomatic actions against Pakistan, accusing it of continued support for cross-border terrorism: These steps mark a significant escalation in India’s response to terror attacks and underline a growing zero-tolerance stance toward terrorism and its enablers.

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Editor03 mins

Post-Pahalgam Attack Fallout: Kashmiri Students Face Threats, Assaults Across India; J&K Students Association Issues SOS

In the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir is grappling not only with the loss of 26 innocent lives—25 tourists and one local resident—but also with a disturbing surge in hate-fueled reprisals targeting Kashmiri students in various parts of the country. The J&K Students Association has raised the alarm, alleging a wave of harassment, abuse, and physical assaults against Kashmiri youth studying in states like Uttarakhand, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and the National Capital Region. 🔴 Key Allegations and Incidents: 📞 Emergency Response and Government Reaction: The J&K Students Association has set up dedicated helpline numbers and a rapid response team to coordinate with state authorities for intervention. “This is the seventh incident since the Pahalgam attack. Kashmiri students are being intimidated, assaulted, and forcibly removed. They feel isolated and insecure,” said Nasir Khuehami, National Convenor of the Association. “We are in constant touch with distressed students, and some are literally fleeing campuses to save their lives,” added Ummar Jamal, the Association’s National President. 🗣️ Political Response: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed grave concern, saying the J&K government is actively liaising with states where incidents have occurred. “I’m also in touch with my counterparts in these states and have requested them to ensure protection and care for Kashmiri students,” Abdullah said. This unfolding crisis highlights a dangerous spillover of anger from a terrorist act to innocent students, risking a deeper communal divide and human rights violations.

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Editor04 mins

FIITJEE Centres Shut Down Across India Amid Financial Crisis; Management Blames “Criminal Conspiracy”

The sudden and unexplained closure of multiple FIITJEE coaching centres across Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra has sent shockwaves through the academic community. Students preparing for competitive exams like the JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) have been left in confusion and distress, with some centres shutting overnight, including prominent ones in Delhi’s Laxmi Nagar and Noida Sector 62. In a statement issued on Saturday, FIITJEE sought to downplay the panic, claiming that the “present turmoil is temporary” and that it has not shut any centre by its own decision. Instead, it blamed Centre Managing Partners (CMPs) for the closures, alleging that several CMPs deserted their posts abruptly, along with faculty teams, causing operations to halt in several locations. “Overnight desertion of the centre by the Centre Managing Partner, along with the entire team, suddenly is the only reason for this type of condition,” the institute’s statement read. FIITJEE operates 73 centres nationwide and asserted that it is working to restore operations “within a reasonable time.” It also claimed that the situation was being exploited as part of a wider conspiracy against the organization and promised that truth will come out through investigation. However, the situation has escalated legally. At least two FIRs have been lodged against FIITJEE, including one in Noida, where founder DK Goel, his wife Monila Goel, and seven others have been booked for cheating and criminal breach of trust under Section 316(2) of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and relevant provisions of the IT Act. The complaint, filed by Satsang Kumar on behalf of the Parents’ Association, names the following individuals: Adding to the gravity of the situation, there have been mass resignations by faculty across several centres over non-payment of salaries, according to local reports. FIITJEE’s legal team has stated it is actively pursuing action against what it calls “malicious prosecutions.” In the meantime, hundreds of students and their parents remain in limbo, seeking clarity on the fate of their academic plans and refunds for fees paid. As investigations proceed, the future of one of India’s oldest and most reputed coaching institutes hangs in the balance.

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Editor04 mins

Indian Army Foils Infiltration Bid in Baramulla Hours After Deadly Pahalgam Terror Attack

Just hours after Jammu and Kashmir witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent memory at Pahalgam, the Indian Army successfully foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla district on Wednesday, April 23. At least two terrorists were neutralized during the encounter that ensued after they were intercepted by alert security forces. According to an official statement by the Indian Army, a group of approximately two to three unidentified terrorists attempted to infiltrate Indian territory through the Uri Nala area in the Sarjeevan sector of Baramulla. The troops deployed along the LoC immediately challenged them, leading to a firefight. The ongoing operation, named Operation Tikka, is still in progress. The army confirmed the developments via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, stating: “On 23 Apr 2025, approximately 2-3 UI terrorists tried to infiltrate through general area Sarjeevan at Uri Nala, Baramulla. The alert troops on LC challenged and intercepted them, resulting in a firefight. Operation is in progress.” This military action followed closely on the heels of a horrific terror attack that shook southern Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday. In that incident, at least 26 tourists, including two foreign nationals, were killed when terrorists linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) opened fire at the popular tourist destination of Baisaran valley. Several others were injured in the gruesome assault. Government sources have revealed that an estimated four to six terrorists are still believed to be hiding in the forested hills surrounding Pahalgam. A large-scale search operation is currently underway to track them down. In response to the escalating security situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to New Delhi early Wednesday. Upon arrival, he held a high-level briefing at the airport with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to assess the evolving situation. Expressing grief and condemnation, the Prime Minister wrote on X: “I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.” Security across the Union Territory has been tightened, and vigil has been stepped up at sensitive points and tourist locations to prevent any further incidents.

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Editor04 mins

Valley Shuts Down in Unprecedented Protest Against Pahalgam Terror Attack

For the first time in 35 years, Kashmir valley observed a complete shutdown on Wednesday in a powerful and unified protest against the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. The bandh, which saw participation from all sections of society, was called to denounce the killing of innocent tourists at the popular Baisaran meadows in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The unprecedented call for a valley-wide shutdown was supported by a broad spectrum of political parties, religious bodies, trade associations, civil society groups, and educational institutions. Shops, fuel stations, and business establishments remained closed in Srinagar and other district headquarters. Only essential services operated, and public transport was minimal, though private vehicles continued to ply. Private schools across Jammu and Kashmir remained shut in response to the call by the Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK), while government schools remained open. Kashmir University also postponed all examinations scheduled for the day. Peaceful protests were held in various parts of the valley, with demonstrators urging an end to the violence and calling for justice for the victims. Slogans condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with the bereaved families were raised across protest sites. Major political parties, including the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples’ Conference, and Apni Party, lent their support to the shutdown. Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU), a coalition of religious organizations led by Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also called upon people to observe the shutdown as a mark of protest and solidarity. Trade and tourism bodies like the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries and the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation joined the bandh, highlighting the collective grief and outrage that transcended political and social boundaries. Security has been significantly tightened across the Kashmir valley in the wake of the attack. Additional forces have been deployed at vital installations, tourist locations, and city entry-exit points. Security personnel conducted extensive checks and frisking operations across districts, with a special focus on areas with tourist movement. A massive manhunt is currently underway in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, as security forces work to track down the four LeT terrorists responsible for the attack. The deployment of additional forces in Pahalgam underscores the seriousness of the ongoing security operation. The rare valley-wide shutdown marks a pivotal moment in the public’s response to terrorism in Kashmir, signaling both a deep sense of mourning and a resolute stand against violence.

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Editor04 mins

RBI Eases Liquidity Coverage Ratio Norms: Major Relief for Banks, Boost to Credit Growth

In a significant move to strengthen the liquidity resilience of Indian banks without stifling their credit potential, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released its final guidelines on Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR), bringing notable relaxations. The new framework, effective from April 1, 2026, is expected to free up a substantial amount of capital and support credit expansion. 🔑 Key Changes in LCR Norms 🧾 What is LCR and Why It Matters? LCR mandates banks to maintain a sufficient stock of High-Quality Liquid Assets (HQLA), like government securities, to survive a hypothetical 30-day liquidity crisis. The intent is to safeguard against unexpected deposit withdrawals, such as what led to the Silicon Valley Bank collapse in the US. 📉 Why This Move Matters for Banks 🧠 RBI’s View “These measures will enhance the liquidity resilience of banks in India and further align the guidelines with global standards in a non-disruptive manner,”— RBI statement.

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Editor03 mins

India, US Move Closer to Trade Deal Amid Tariff Pause; Modi Hosts VP JD Vance in Delhi

India and the United States signaled significant progress in finalizing a bilateral trade agreement after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US Vice-President JD Vance in New Delhi on Monday night. The meeting, part of Vance’s ongoing four-day visit to India with his family, also saw discussions on deepening ties across sectors such as defence, energy, and strategic technology. “We are committed to mutually beneficial cooperation, including in trade, technology, defence, energy and people-to-people exchanges,” Modi posted on X, following their meeting. He also hosted a private dinner for Vance, his wife, and their three children at his official residence. The trade talks take place against the backdrop of a temporary 90-day pause on increased US tariffs, announced by President Donald Trump. India, which was facing proposed tariffs as high as 27% on its exports to the US, has used the window to engage in accelerated negotiations. The tariff reprieve ends on July 9, prompting urgency in finalizing a deal. While Modi and Trump have maintained a friendly personal rapport—Modi was one of the first foreign leaders to visit Trump after the start of his second term—the US president has not held back in criticizing India’s trade policies, branding the country a “tariff king” and accusing it of unfair trade practices. In a statement after Monday’s talks, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer reiterated longstanding US concerns, pointing to the “serious lack of reciprocity” in its trade relationship with India. Washington is particularly pushing for greater access to India’s protected agricultural sector, including the sale of American corn—something Indian officials are reluctant to concede due to domestic sensitivities. India has already lowered tariffs on a range of goods and is reportedly considering more reductions to advance negotiations. However, agriculture and digital trade remain key sticking points in the discussions. Beyond trade, Modi and Vance discussed broader strategic collaboration, including defence, energy security, and emerging technologies. The Indian prime minister also expressed anticipation for President Trump’s upcoming visit to India later this year, likely during the Quad summit that Delhi is set to host. The bilateral meeting concluded with delegation-level discussions and the dinner hosted by Modi, underscoring the warmth between the two countries even as complex trade issues remain under negotiation.

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