Gold prices soar! Safe-haven appeal, festive demand drive gold rates up Rs 1,500 in just a day; analysts expect further rise

Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav and other party MPs staged a protest outside Parliament in New Delhi, alleging large-scale rigging by the ruling BJP in the Milkipur Assembly by-election with assistance from the administration, accusing the Election Commission of India of being complicit and failing to prevent malpractice. The SP MPs symbolically carried a white funeral shroud with 'Election Commission' imprinted atop, criticizing the EC's conduct and accusing the BJP of seizing power against...

The government has signed contracts worth over 10,000 crore for Area Denial Munition Type-1 and high-explosive rockets for the Pinaka multiple launch rocket system, aiming to enhance the Indian Army's capabilities. The Defence Secretary was present at the signings, emphasizing the importance of modernizing artillery and supporting indigenous industries as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, marking a significant step towards boosting national defense capabilities. Full Article

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized BJP leaders for alleged misdeeds during the Milkipur by-election, urging them to take a holy dip at the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Yadav accused the BJP of offering high-level postings to officials for favoring the party in the polls, claiming that the Election Commission is "dead." In response, the BJP condemned Yadav's remarks, accusing the Opposition of attacking constitutional institutions following electoral defeats. Full Article

A Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force crashed near Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, during a routine training sortie due to a system malfunction. Both pilots ejected safely from the twin-seater aircraft. A Court of Inquiry has been initiated to investigate the cause of the crash, ensuring a thorough examination of the incident. Full Article

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has ordered the military to create a plan for the voluntary departure of Gaza residents using land, sea, and air options. This decision comes after US President Donald Trump suggested taking control of the Gaza Strip, sparking international criticism. The plan aims to address the situation in Gaza and potentially change the region's political landscape. Full Article

The Centre is confident about completing the privatisation of IDBI Bank in the next financial year, with financial bids expected to be invited by next month. The due diligence process by bidders is ongoing, with access to confidential data for assessing the bank's financial position and valuation. The sale of a 61% stake, including Government and LIC shares, marks a significant milestone in the largest privatisation exercise since the disinvestment of Air India. Full Article