FSSAI trained over 3 lakh street food vendors on safe food practices: Govt

New Delhi, Aug 9, 2025
In a bid to boost the safe food practices in the country, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has trained more than 3 lakh street street food vendors, the government informed the Parliament.

In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, stated the steps undertaken by the government to boost food safety standards in the country.

This includes the Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) programme launched in 2017.

“This initiative offers training in food safety and standards for individuals engaged in street food business, whether as food business operators or employees,” Jadhav said.

“Under FoSTaC, a specialised awareness course titled “Street Food Vending” has been developed. Till now, more than 3 lakh street food vendors across the country have been trained through this programme,” the Minister added.

Further, he stated that the government enhances street food safety through rigorous inspections, awareness campaigns, and enforcement through the FSSAI.

“The FSSAI conducts regular surveillance, monitoring, inspection, and random sampling of food products to check compliance with the standards laid down under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, Rules and Regulations,” Jadhav said.

In case the food samples are found to be non-conforming, penal action is initiated against the defaulting Food Business Operators as per provisions of the FSS Act.

Meanwhile, FSSAI is also carrying out a nationwide initiative, “Eat Right India movement” to ensure food safety and hygiene for all citizens.

Under this initiative, FSSAI has designed the Eat Right Street Food Hub certification programme to educate people about food safety and hygiene at Food Streets.

“There are 405 Eat Right Street Food Hubs certified under Eat Right India,” Jadhav said.

Further, to extend outreach for on-the-spot food testing and dissemination of food safety information in remote areas, FSSAI has also introduced Mobile Food Testing Laboratories (MFTLs) to all the States and UTs.

“FSSAI has deployed 305 MFTLs to 35 States/UTs across India to date,” the Minister said.(Agency)

PM Modi to visit Karnataka tomorrow, flag off 3 Vande Bharat Express trains from Bengaluru

New Delhi, Aug 9, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to visit Karnataka on Sunday, where he will launch multiple metro projects in Bengaluru and flag off three Vande Bharat express trains from the IT city.

The Vande Bharat Express, being 11th in the Southern state, fulfils the long-pending demand for premium train service between Bengaluru and Belagavi and is set to give new momentum to seamless connectivity between the two cities.

PM Modi will flag off three Vande Bharat Express trains at KSR Railway Station in Bengaluru at around 11 a.m.

Thereafter, he will inaugurate the Yellow line of Bangalore metro and undertake a metro ride from RV Road (Ragigudda) to Electronic City metro station. At around 1 p.m., the Prime Minister will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for urban connectivity projects in Bengaluru. He will also address a public function.

He will later inaugurate the Yellow line from RV Road (Ragigudda) to Bommasandra of Bangalore Metro Phase-2 project, with a route length of over 19 km with 16 stations worth around Rs 7,160 crore. With the opening of this yellow line, the operational metro network in Bengaluru will increase to over 96 km serving a large population in the region.

Prime Minister Modi will also lay the foundation stone for Bangalore Metro Phase-3 project worth over Rs 15,610 crore. The total route length of the project will be more than 44 km with 31 elevated stations.

The three Vande Bharat Express trains that will be inaugurated by PM Modi will connect Bengaluru with Belagavi, Amritsar with Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Nagpur (Ajni) with Pune.

The Bengaluru-Belagavi train cut travel time for commuters by almost an hour. It will leave Belagavi at 5.20 am and reach KSR Bengaluru at 1.50 pm. In the return route, it will depart from KSR Bengaluru at 2.20 pm and reach Belagavi at 10.40 pm.

The fare from Bengaluru to Belagavi is set at Rs 2,905 and Rs 2,535 respectively, for the executive chair car while those opting for the regular AC chair car will have to pay Rs 1,575 and Rs 1,264 respectively.

These high-speed trains are set to enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time and provide a world-class travel experience to the passengers.(Agency)

Raksha Bandhan: Akshay Kumar celebrates festival with sister Alka, remembers late mother

Akshay Kumar on Raksha Bandhan with sister Alka Bhatia

Mumbai, Aug 9, 2025
Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who was last seen in ‘Housefull 5’, is feeling emotional on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.

On Saturday, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared a picture from his home in the Juhu area of Mumbai. In the picture, the actor can be seen sitting in front of his sister Alka Bhatia as the two celebrate the festival.

He wrote in the caption, “Aankhein band hai, toh maa dikh rahi hai. Aur aankhein khol kar teri smile. Love you Alka. Happy Rakhi”.

Alka completed her initial schooling in Delhi and secondary education in Mumbai. In 1997, Alka Bhatia got married to Vaibhav Kapoor, and together the duo welcomed their daughter, Simar Bhatia. Unfortunately, after a few years of marriage, Alka and Vaibhav parted ways and she became a single mother and raised her daughter single-handedly.

She ventured into production with 2013 release ‘Fugly’ and since then, produced several films like, ‘Holiday’, ‘Rustom’, ‘Airlift’, ‘Kesari’, and ‘Raksha Bandhan’.

Earlier, Akshay Kumar had admitted that he is already scared after seeing his better half, Twinkle Khanna, and Kajol together on the poster of their forthcoming chat show, ‘Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle’.

The ‘Airlift’ actor shared that he cannot even begin to imagine the chaos that will take place during the show. Taking to the stories section of his Instagram handle, Akshay penned, “Already scared just seeing you two together on the poster, can’t imagine the chaos on the actual show”.

The poster features Twinkle and Kajol peeking from behind a curtain with a surprised expression on their faces. It is believed that these two will be enjoying some candid conversations with Who’s Who of Bollywood during the chat show.(Agency)

CM Mann and Kejriwal Showcase Punjab as a Land of Opportunities Before Industrial Giants

Chandigarh, August 8, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal on Friday showcased Punjab as a land full of opportunities during a high-powered CEO Conclave Friday evening, attended by leading industrialists from across the country.

Addressing the gathering, Arvind Kejriwal said that the feedback received from captains of industry would play a crucial role in shaping policies aimed at further accelerating Punjab’s economic development. He praised the entrepreneurial vision and dedication of the industrialists, which he said is pivotal for the state’s progress.

Reflecting on the situation three years ago, National Convener of AAP recalled that the state was going through a dark phase, particularly due to the widespread drug problem among youth.

Arvind Kejriwal highlighted that Punjab’s contribution to the armed forces had dropped drastically due to drug addiction, and that industrial growth had stagnated under previous regimes that exploited the state for decades. National convener of AAP said that the present government took up the challenge head-on through its Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh campaign to make Punjab drug-free. “Earlier, people were afraid to speak against drug smugglers, but now the citizens are actively participating in this fight. Over 3,500 FIRs have been registered based on public complaints alone,” he said, adding that this crackdown has led to a significant drop in petty crimes.

National Convener of AAP revealed that the drug menace was deliberately spread during 2008–2009 through a conspiracy backed by political leaders, but the current government has acted through meticulous planning, putting even high-profile offenders behind bars. He emphasized that simultaneous focus has been placed on strengthening healthcare and education—sectors that were neglected for the last 75 years.

Arvind Kejriwal announced that all 166 towns and cities in Punjab will be completely transformed within the next six months through major infrastructure development.

The National Convener of AAP shared that main roads in seven cities will be revamped on European lines by global architects to enhance their aesthetic appeal. In rural areas, he said that roads will be constructed, ponds cleaned, and new sports stadiums built. Arvind Kejriwal also spoke about the state’s new revenue reforms, including the launch of easy registration and Jamabandi portal to offer transparent and corruption-free services to the public.

National Convener of AAP reiterated that several schemes have already been introduced to further boost Punjab’s economic growth. Calling upon industrialists to collaborate in rebuilding the state, Arvind Kejriwal said: “Don’t just invest your money—invest your heart and soul to build a Rangla Punjab.” He assured full cooperation and support from the state government for every industrial initiative aimed at uplifting Punjab.

Addressing the conclave, Chief Minister commended the industrialists present for their hard work, resilience, and dedication. He emphasized the importance of their feedback in steering Punjab onto a high-growth economic path. Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the Punjab government is fully committed to resolving every challenge faced by the industrial sector through dialogue and constructive feedback.

The Chief Minister noted that past governments had driven industries away with their regressive policies, creating unnecessary hurdles instead of facilitating growth. He credited Arvind Kejriwal with bringing crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, power, water, and infrastructure into the national spotlight. “These five sectors are our top priorities, and we are leaving no stone unturned in strengthening them,” he said.

The Chief Minister also contrasted AAP’s development-focused politics with the divisive agenda of previous regimes. Bhagwant Singh Mann accused former governments of extorting money from industrialists and threatening their businesses. “Today, Punjab has a people-elected government that works sincerely for the growth and prosperity of industry,” he asserted.

Welcoming the captains of industry, the Chief Minister highlighted Punjab’s leadership in sectors such as food processing, textiles, auto components, hand tools, bicycle manufacturing, IT, and tourism. He proudly announced that since March 2022, the state has received investment proposals worth ₹1.14 lakh crore, resulting in the creation of over 4.5 lakh job opportunities. Bhagwant Singh Mann added that major companies like Tata Steel and Sanatan Textiles are now lining up to invest in the state.

Senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and academia to build the Punjab of our dreams. “This synergy will be truly beneficial for our state and its people. Education, healthcare, and ease of doing business are key pillars of our development strategy,” he said.

Earlier, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries and industrial leaders attending the event.

On the occasion Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Mittal, Secretary Industries KK Yadav and others were also present.

Actor Rahman tells actress Shwetha Menon: Deeply shocked by the baseless accusations made against you

Chennai, Aug 9, 2025
Malayalam actor Rahman, who has made a name for himself in both the Malayalam and Tamil film industries, has now come out strongly in support of actress Shwetha Menon, saying that he was shocked by the baseless accusations being made against her.

Taking to his Instagram page to pen a lengthy post expressing support to Shwetha Menon, who is contesting the polls for the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA), Rahman wrote, “Dear Shwetha, I was deeply shocked when I read about the baseless accusations against you. My heart is filled with anger at the injustice of it all.

I have known you for almost three decades, and in all that time you have been a true friend — one of the kindest and most genuine people I have met in our industry. Though we worked together in only one film, the shows we did and the time we spent together were enough for me to understand your character and to treasure our friendship.”

Rahman, who is also the co-brother of music director A R Rahman, then went on to say,”During those shows, I saw firsthand how much you cared for others — whether it was fellow actors, especially newcomers, the crew, organisers, or your fans. I still remember you quietly buying medicines for crew members who were unwell, without expecting any thanks or recognition.

You treated everyone with respect, regardless of their position. Those moments spoke volumes about the person you are.”

The actor then went on to comment on the current situation in which the actress finds herself in.

He wrote,”This current situation is nothing but utter nonsense. Meher and I are shocked and disgusted by the people behind this malicious act. It is clear to me that this is a deliberate attempt to tarnish your name and stop you from being elected as the President of the Malayalam Artists’ Association. Such dirty games are common in politics, but I never expected to see them in our film industry.”

Seeking her forgiveness for not reaching out to her sooner, Rahman said he was unable to reach out, first because of food poisoning and then as he was mourning the loss of his dear friend, Shanavas.

“My words are meant for you, but I also want the public to know where I stand. I’m aware that some media outlets may twist my words, but I honestly don’t care,” the actor wrote.

Urging the actress not to lose heart, actor Rahman said, “Shwetha, please don’t let this break your spirit. I know how hard you have worked to get where you are today — without anyone’s help, through sheer determination and strength.

You are stronger than this storm, and those who have tried to harm you will one day face the consequences of their actions. I have no doubt that you will make an excellent President of the Malayalam Artists’ Association, and I stand with you in full support.”(Agency)

We are not going to occupy Gaza: Israeli PM Netanyahu

Tel Aviv, Aug 9, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will not occupy Gaza but will instead demilitarise the territory and set up a peaceful civilian administration.

“We are not going to occupy Gaza – we are going to free Gaza from Hamas. Gaza will be demilitarised, and a peaceful civilian administration will be established, one that is not the Palestinian Authority, not Hamas, and not any other terrorist organisation. This will help free our hostages and ensure Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future,” Netanyahu posted on X.

The remarks came after the Israeli Security Cabinet’s recent plan to take over Gaza City sparked criticism, with many saying the decision violates international law, worsens the Gaza humanitarian crisis, and undermines efforts to reach a ceasefire deal.

Netanyahu’s office on Friday stated that the security cabinet had approved a plan for the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to take over Gaza City.

In a statement, Israel PM’s office said that Israel will provide humanitarian aid to the people residing outside combat zones on what it termed the decision taken by the cabinet to back Netanyahu’s “proposal to defeat Hamas.”

Israeli Opposition leaders have criticised the cabinet’s approval of a plan to occupy Gaza City, terming it a “disaster that will lead to many more disasters” and that will result in the deaths of Israeli hostages and soldiers.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid termed the cabinet’s decision “a disaster that will lead to more disasters.”

He stated that Israel National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich “dragged” Netanyahu into a move that could cost tens of billions to the Israeli taxpayer, and lead to a political collapse.

“In complete contradiction to the opinion of the military and security ranks, without considering the erosion and exhaustion of the fighting forces, Ben Gvir and Smotrich dragged Netanyahu into a move that will take months, lead to the death of the hostages, the killing of many soldiers, cost tens of billions to the Israeli taxpayer, and lead to a political collapse. This is exactly what Hamas wanted: For Israel to be trapped in the field without a goal, without defining the picture of the day after, in a useless occupation that no one understands where it is leading,” Lapid posted on X.(Agency)

Eight killed in rain-triggered wall collapse in Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 9, 2025
Eight people, including women and children, were killed in a wall collapse triggered by incessant rain in South East Delhi’s Jaitpur area, the police said on Saturday.

The incident took place in a slum in the Hari Nagar area in the morning, the police added.

The victims were identified as Muttu Ali (45), Rabibul (30), Shabibul (30), Rubina (25), Dolly (25), Hashibul, Rukhsana (6), and Hasina (7).

The police said the victims were trapped after a wall near a temple collapsed with a loud noise, apparently because the weak structure could not bear the weight of the rain-drenched roof and walls.

Soon after the collapse, area residents rushed to help and assisted rescuers in shifting them to the hospital, the police said, adding that the victims died on the way.

The slum, home to scrap dealers, was evacuated soon after the incident to avoid any similar collapse, the police said.

Meanwhile, the overnight and morning downpour severely disrupted normal life across Delhi-NCR, causing waterlogging in several areas, including Panchkuian Marg, Mathura Road, and Connaught Place.

The waterlogging and rush due to the festival of Rakhi resulted in traffic congestion and delays on major roads.

The rain not only caused chaos on the ground but also in the skies. According to Flightradar data, more than 130 flights to and from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport were delayed on Saturday morning.

In response to the weather-induced disruption, airlines issued travel advisories. IndiGo and SpiceJet took to X to warn passengers about the heavy rain and urged them to allow extra travel time and check flight statuses before heading to the airport.

Air India also issued a cautionary message on X: “Rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi today.” It advised travellers to plan their trips by keeping in mind the delays anticipated due to traffic congestion in the city.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday issued a rain alert for Delhi, warning of moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across the national Capital. The department also issued key safety guidelines for citizens amid deteriorating weather conditions.

“Today, the skies turn moody, moderate rain, thunderstorms, and lightning are expected, accompanied by gusty winds (30–40 kmph) across parts of the city. This isn’t just a forecast, it’s a gentle reminder to care for one another. Drive cautiously — roads may be slippery. Secure loose items on balconies and rooftops. Avoid sheltering under trees during lightning. Stay tuned to IMD official weather updates,” the IMD posted on X.(Agency)

Faruk Kabir didn’t do Mukesh Rishi’s look test before casting him for ‘Salakaar’

Mumbai, Aug 9, 2025

Director Faruk Kabir, whose recently released streaming series ‘Salakaar’, has shared that he did not do the look test of actor Mukesh Rishi before casting him as the antagonist.

‘Salakaar’ is a period spy drama-thriller, and alternates between two timelines, the 1970s and 2025. It follows the story of an Indian spy, who is tailing the nuclear weapon development in India’s arch-nemesis, Pakistan.

Mukesh Rishi essays the role of Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, the Pakistani dictator, who escalated his country’s atomic bomb project.

Faruk spoke with IANS, and said that he was more than confident on casting Mukesh Rishi for the role of Zia, and how he would fit the part.

Talking about the same, Faruk told IANS, “I would like to say two things about Mukesh sir’s casting, we didn’t do Mukesh sir’s look test because I was very sure it’s going to be him, who will play Zia. I had decided We didn’t do anything before we finalised him. We did the look test after the confirmation and the paperwork”.

“And the second thing, we even asked for a mojadi for Mukesh sir. The mojadi was such that whenever he would walk, it would make a chirping sound. And, he would feel it while walking And the whole set would feel it”, he added.

Zia-ul-Haq is the bedrock of most of India’s problems. He was the second Pakistani dictator after General Ayub Khan. He gave a definitive form to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s plan of “Bleed India by thousand cuts”, a thousand year war declared against India for Pakistan’s own interest.

Later, Zia got Zulfikar Ali Bhutto framed in a case, and got the death penalty approved for him through hand-picked judges.

His political actions are largely responsible for the current day geo-political tensions in southeast Asia. He instituted industrialization and deregulation, which significantly improved Pakistan’s economy. In 1979, following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, Zia adopted an anti-Soviet stance and aided the Afghan mujahideen. He bolstered ties with China and the United States.(Agency)

President Murmu celebrates Raksha Bandhan with children, students at Rashtrapati Bhavan

New Delhi, Aug 9, 2025
President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday celebrated Raksha Bandhan with children and students from various schools and organisations at Rashtrapati Bhavan, spreading joy and warmth on the festive occasion.

Taking to social media platform X, the President’s office shared glimpses of the celebrations with a caption and said, “President Droupadi Murmu celebrated Raksha Bandhan with children and students of various schools and organisations at Rashtrapati Bhavan.”

In the heartwarming images, President Murmu is seen tying ‘rakhis’ on the wrists of schoolchildren, symbolising the bond of protection and affection traditionally shared between siblings.

Earlier in the day, the President extended her greetings to the nation, saying, “On the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens living in India and abroad.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the occasion at his official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg in the national Capital. The celebration featured vibrant moments as children and members of the Brahma Kumaris tied ‘rakhis’ on the Prime Minister’s wrist and offered sweets.

In pictures shared by the PMO, PM Modi is seen warmly interacting with children — shaking hands, exchanging smiles, receiving hugs, and even being affectionately kissed on the cheek. The Prime Minister reciprocated their love with blessings and endearing gestures, creating a memorable atmosphere.

Raksha Bandhan, celebrated on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Shravana, is a festival honouring the sacred bond between siblings. Traditionally, sisters tie colourful ‘rakhis’ on their brothers’ wrists, praying for their well-being and prosperity. In return, brothers pledge to protect their sisters and shower them with gifts.

Beyond its traditional setting, Raksha Bandhan has evolved into a celebration of affection across all types of relationships — between cousins, in-laws, and even between spiritual leaders and their followers. The phrase “Raksha Bandhan” literally translates from Sanskrit as “the bond of protection,” symbolising love, duty, and mutual respect.

This vibrant festival, also observed in countries like Nepal, continues to reflect the deep-rooted cultural values of unity, care, and familial love in Indian society.(Agency)

Op Dharali: 816 civilians rescued, air and ground operations continue in Uttarkashi

New Delhi, Aug 9, 2025
Rescue and relief operations under ‘Operation Dharali’ are in full swing in the flood and landslide-affected regions of Dharali and Harsil in Uttarkashi district, with 816 civilians rescued so far.

The multi-agency effort involves the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), working round-the-clock to evacuate stranded people and restore essential connectivity.

Officials said that while civilians in Dharali have been evacuated, search operations are continuing in Harsil to ensure no one is left behind.

Road access has been restored up to Limchigad, with engineering teams engaged in the construction of a 90-foot Bailey Bridge to replace damaged infrastructure.

Simultaneously, work is underway to convert a 2-kilometre foot track between Harsil and Dharali into an all-terrain route, enabling movement of heavy equipment, relief material, and personnel. Air operations are also playing a critical role in the mission.

The day’s air plan includes deployment of two Mi-17 helicopters and one Chinook from the Dharasu air base for ferrying relief stores and inducting personnel into the affected zones.

In addition, eight civil helicopters operating from Matli are focussed on the evacuation of civilians from isolated pockets.

Favourable weather in the Matli–Harsil sector has significantly aided rescue efforts, allowing uninterrupted flights and rapid transportation of relief supplies. Officials emphasised that continuous clear conditions will be key to completing evacuation and infrastructure restoration at the earliest.

Relief camps have been set up for the rescued civilians, where food, shelter, and medical care are being provided. Teams are also assessing long-term rehabilitation needs, with a focus on restoring road links and ensuring the safe return of residents once conditions stabilise.(Agency)