‘Cloudburst forecasting remains a challenge’RAJOURI: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday reviewed relief, restoration and rehabilitation measures following the recent flash floods in Rajouri and...

NOWSHERA, AUGUST 06: On his way back from Rajouri to Jammu, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday inspected the ongoing works on the strategically important Sungal Tunnel and reviewed the progress of the project. During the inspection, the Chief Minister was briefed by officials on the current status of construction and the remaining works. He was informed that the tunnel is in its final stages of completion and is expected to be opened to all traffic shortly. Officials also informed him that essential services, including ambulances, are presently being allowed passage through the tunnel to facilitate emergency movement. The Chief Minister reviewed the pace of execution and stressed the importance of completing the remaining works expeditiously while ensuring adherence...

New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday hit back at senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh over his criticism of the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, saying he should refrain from "spreading a canard" about the proposed changes related to UPI transactions. Responding to Ramesh's allegations, FM Sitharaman clarified that Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies only to merchants and not to end users or customers. The minister said the move would enable banks and fintech companies to invest more in infrastructure, innovation and security, with all UPI users ultimately benefiting from these investments. "Before spreading a canard, Jairam Ramesh, please consider this: 1. Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies only on the merchants and...