Vizag eNews — Visakhapatnam news in English and Telugu

The district administration organised a series of programmes, with Revenue, Stamps and Registration Minister Angani Satya Prasad highlighting the government’s focus on the development of Visakhapatnam.

₹397.33 Crore in Assets Distributed

As part of the Independence Day programme, 30,366 beneficiaries received assets worth a combined ₹397.33 crore, including house pattas, according to the source report.

The initiative was presented as part of the government’s efforts to support beneficiaries and promote development in the city and district.

South Coast Railway Marks First Independence Day

The celebrations were particularly significant for South Coast Railway (SCoR), which observed its first Independence Day after becoming the country’s 18th zonal railway.

The ceremony was held at the Railway Cricket Ground in Visakhapatnam.

SCoR General Manager Sandeep Mathur hoisted the national flag, following which an RPF contingent presented a ceremonial salute. The General Manager also inspected the parade.

New Railway Zone Highlights

Addressing the gathering, Mathur highlighted the progress made by South Coast Railway since its operationalisation on June 1, 2026.

The new railway zone comprises four divisions:

Visakhapatnam

Vijayawada

Guntur

Guntakal

According to the source report, SCoR covers approximately 3,532 route kilometres and 6,455 track kilometres.

The celebrations marked an important milestone for Visakhapatnam as the newly operationalised railway zone joined the city’s Independence Day festivities for the first time.

District Congress Committee president Boya Kranti Naidu, speaking at the party office, said the movement played an important role in India’s struggle against British rule.

Leaders Recall 1942 Movement

Naidu recalled the adoption of the Quit India resolution in 1942 and Mahatma Gandhi’s famous “Do or Die” call.

He said the movement intensified the struggle against British rule and became an important chapter in the journey towards Independence in 1947.

Rally at Kondareddy Buruju

Earlier, Congress leaders and workers organised a rally at Kondareddy Buruju in Kurnool.

They paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and participated in the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony before proceeding to the party office.

The programme was held as part of the celebrations marking 80 years of India’s Independence.

Devotees can access the quotas through the TTD's official online portal.

Srivari Arjita Seva Lucky Dip

The online quota for Suprabhatam, Thomala, Archana and Ashtadala Pada Padmaradhana sevas for November will be released on August 18 at 10:00 AM.

Registration for the electronic lucky dip will remain open until 10:00 AM on August 20. Devotees selected through the draw must complete payment and confirm their tickets between August 20 and the afternoon of August 22.

August 21: Multiple Seva Quotas

On August 21, TTD will release:

10:00 AM: Kalyanotsavam, Oonjal Seva, Arjita Brahmotsavam, Sahasra Deepalankara Seva and Salakatla Pavitrotsavam

3:00 PM: Virtual Seva quotas and associated darshan slots

August 24: Special Categories

The following quotas will be released on August 24:

10:00 AM: Angapradakshinam

11:00 AM: SRIVANI Trust Break Darshan

3:00 PM: Free Special Entry Darshan tokens for senior citizens, chronically ill devotees and persons with disabilities

₹300 Special Entry Darshan and Accommodation

On August 25, the ₹300 Special Entry Darshan quota for November will be released at 10:00 AM.

The accommodation booking quota for rooms in Tirumala and Tirupati will subsequently be released at 3:00 PM.

TTD has advised devotees to use its official online portal for bookings and to check the schedule carefully before attempting to reserve tickets.

The accident involved around 63 passengers across the two buses. Despite the severity of the collision, only three people were reported to have sustained minor injuries.

Driver Fatigue Suspected

Police suspect that driver drowsiness may have contributed to the accident. The APSRTC bus driver became trapped inside the vehicle following the collision.

Police, fire service personnel and teams working along NH-65 rushed to the scene and began rescue operations.

Under the supervision of Munagala Sub-Inspector Sanjeev Reddy, rescuers reportedly worked for around two hours to free the trapped driver from the bus.

Authorities are continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Addressing the nation on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day at Hyderabad’s Golconda Fort, Revanth Reddy said pending irrigation projects would be completed on a priority basis to benefit farmers.

He also said the government was working towards doubling the state’s GSDP and positioning Telangana to compete globally rather than merely with other Indian states.

Water Projects and Farmers’ Welfare

The Chief Minister said Telangana’s interests in Krishna and Godavari waters would be firmly protected.

He announced that pending projects would be taken up according to priority and indicated that the Palamuru project would be completed soon to provide irrigation water.

Revanth Reddy said his government was working to move the state from what he described as a period of disruption towards development, with policies, legislation, major projects and international-standard infrastructure being planned for the future.

Focus on Jobs and Digital Governance

The CM urged unemployed youth to concentrate on competitive examinations following the release of recruitment notifications for government and police jobs.

He also announced plans to introduce an online Praja Vani system, allowing citizens to submit complaints and applications remotely.

The Chief Minister highlighted the contribution of government employees to attracting investments and implementing welfare programmes. He said salaries were being paid on the first of every month and that ₹6,000 crore in pending payments had been cleared for retired employees within 100 days.

Welfare and Agriculture

According to the figures presented in his speech, Telangana’s per-capita income reached ₹4,18,931 in 2025-26, which he said was about 91% higher than the national per-capita income.

The government, he said, had spent ₹1.70 lakh crore on farmer welfare and implemented loan waivers of up to ₹2 lakh. A further ₹36,000 crore had been provided under Rythu Bharosa, he said.

The government also claimed that revisions to minimum wages benefited around 1.11 crore workers.

Under the Mahalakshmi scheme, around 34 lakh women are using free travel on state-run RTC buses every day, according to the CM.

Indiramma Housing and Investment Push

Revanth Reddy said the government had sanctioned 5.5 lakh Indiramma houses in the second phase, with a focus on providing housing to the urban poor during the current year.

He also highlighted the state’s investment drive, stating that investments worth ₹1.95 lakh crore had been secured through TG-iPASS, with more than 78,000 additional employment opportunities expected.

The Chief Minister said Amazon was investing $7 billion in Telangana.

HYDRA and Musi Rejuvenation

The government has established HYDRA to protect lakes, nalas and government land, Revanth Reddy said.

He also highlighted the Musi rejuvenation programme, under which integrated development is being undertaken along a 55-kilometre stretch. He appealed to people affected by the project to cooperate with the government.

The state is also strengthening public healthcare infrastructure, including a new Osmania Hospital in Goshamahal at an estimated cost of ₹2,700 crore and super-speciality facilities in Warangal, Sanathnagar, Alwal and LB Nagar.

Future City as Global Investment Hub

Revanth Reddy said the government aims to develop Bharat Future City as India’s first net-zero smart city and position it as a major destination for global investment.

He thanked farmers who provided land for the project and said the government would support them with appropriate compensation.

Education and Youth Development

The CM said education reforms had helped Telangana improve its position in the education index from 21st to 14th.

The government is constructing an integrated school in every constituency and has allocated ₹1,000 crore to Osmania University, he said.

He also highlighted the establishment of a Skills University to provide young people with education, skills and employment opportunities.

Recruitment efforts include notifications for 456 posts through TGPSC and 7,437 police positions, according to the speech. The government also plans to convert 57 polytechnic colleges into Advanced Training Centres.

The festival is observed during the Hindu month of Shravana and is traditionally marked by special prayers and rituals, particularly by women seeking prosperity and well-being for their families.

Educational Institutions Included

If covered under the applicable government holiday orders, the closure would extend to schools and various categories of educational institutions.

These may include:

Schools

Junior colleges

Degree colleges

Professional colleges

Integrated schools

Residential educational institutions

Government offices and other state-run institutions are also expected to observe the holiday where applicable.

Festival Observance

Varalakshmi Vratam is celebrated with devotional ceremonies and special worship of Goddess Lakshmi.

The proposed holiday is intended to allow students, teachers, government employees and members of the public to participate in the festival without their regular institutional commitments.

Important: The exact applicability of the holiday to private educational institutions and specific categories of colleges will depend on the respective government orders and institutional schedules.

The initiative, named the Telangana Auto-Rickshaw Electric Conversion Scheme–2026, is expected to support the conversion of 18,766 auto-rickshaws in the CURE area.

Over 18,000 Autos Covered

Under the scheme, 11,254 diesel-powered and 7,512 petrol-powered auto-rickshaws are proposed to be converted into electric vehicles.

Eligible auto-rickshaw drivers will receive a ₹1.5 lakh subsidy for converting their existing vehicles. A separate subsidy of ₹1.5 lakh is proposed for those opting to purchase a new electric auto-rickshaw.

Retrofit or Buy a New Electric Auto

Drivers will have two options under the programme. They can retrofit their existing petrol or diesel auto-rickshaws using AIS-123-approved kits, with either fixed or swappable battery systems.

Alternatively, they can surrender their existing vehicle and purchase a new electric auto-rickshaw with the applicable subsidy.

Three-Tier Monitoring System

The government has proposed a three-tier monitoring mechanism to oversee implementation of the conversion programme.

According to the information provided, ₹50 crore each has been allocated from the budgets of the SC, ST, BC and Minority departments to support the initiative.

Focus on Cleaner Transport

The scheme is intended to reduce pollution and greenhouse-gas emissions from road transportation while helping auto-rickshaw operators lower their fuel-related expenses.

The programme is also positioned as an initial step towards gradually replacing conventional petrol and diesel auto-rickshaws with electric vehicles across Hyderabad and Telangana.

The move marks a major development for aviation infrastructure in North Andhra, with Bhogapuram set to handle both domestic and international passenger services.

First Flights to Take Off From Bhogapuram

The new airport is scheduled to welcome its first passengers from August 17. Several airlines operating from Visakhapatnam have reportedly released schedules for their services from the new airport.

The transition is expected to bring a significant change to the region's air connectivity, with Bhogapuram emerging as the new aviation hub for North Andhra.

Major Milestone for North Andhra

Bhogapuram International Airport has been developed to accommodate both domestic and international flights. The commencement of passenger operations is being viewed as a major milestone in the region's aviation history.

The shift of flight operations from Visakhapatnam to Bhogapuram is expected to mark the beginning of a new phase in North Andhra's air-travel infrastructure.

The passenger, reportedly from Azamgarh, arrived at the airport at around 9:30 a.m. to board an Air India flight to Mumbai.

Gun Discharges During Security Procedure

According to the information provided by officials, the passenger was handing over his firearm during the security process when the weapon accidentally went off.

The bullets struck the floor before hitting people nearby, leaving two staff members injured. The injured personnel were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Investigation Underway

Airport authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge.

Story

Ravi (Ansh) is a school topper whose life changes after he falls into a bad friendship and is exposed to inappropriate content. He loses interest in studies and becomes focused on impressing girls.

He develops feelings for Chitti (Vasavi Ganeshan), who is also attracted to him. Due to their immaturity, the two cross boundaries and are eventually caught by their parents.

The second half deals with the consequences of their actions, the opposition from their families and society, and how their lives change because of a mistake made at a young age.

How is the movie?

The film is clearly designed for young audiences and follows the style of earlier youth-oriented films such as Bus Stop and Ee Rojullo.

A large portion of the first half relies on adult humour, bold situations and double-meaning dialogues to generate laughs. The emotional message arrives mainly toward the end.

The review feels that although the film has a message that both teenagers and parents could benefit from, family audiences may find it difficult to sit through so much adult-oriented content just to reach that message.

The first half focuses on Ravi and Chitti's attraction, phone conversations and attempts to get closer, with several humorous situations involving their friends.

Once their relationship is discovered by their parents, the movie shifts into a more serious and emotional tone. It explores how bad friendships, excessive pampering, parental behaviour and mobile-phone usage can influence teenagers.

The pre-climax becomes emotional, while the climax is predictable but reasonably effective.

Performances

Ansh: Natural and convincing as Ravi, particularly in the emotional portions.

Vasavi Ganeshan: One of the film's biggest strengths. Her comic timing and emotional performance as Chitti stand out.

Govardhan Reddy: Impresses as the heroine's father.

Sunitha and Ramesh: Good as Ravi's parents.

Dhagad Balu: Provides occasional comic relief.

Technical Aspects

Charan Arjun's songs are highlighted as one of the film's major attractions. The background score is effective and the visuals are good.

Although the story itself is familiar, director Bikshu succeeds in presenting it in a way that could appeal to younger audiences.

Strengths

Ansh and Vasavi's performances

Youth-oriented elements

Music and songs

Emotional portions in the second half

Weaknesses

Excessive adult content

Double-meaning dialogues

Predictable scenes and climax

Final Verdict

Husharu Pittalu is primarily aimed at youngsters. Its bold humour may entertain its target audience, while its later emotional message gives the film some substance.

Bottom line: A youth entertainer, but not necessarily a family-friendly watch.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5

Story

Shivam Pandit (Emraan Hashmi) continues to be haunted by the death of Alia, whom he once loved deeply. Years later, a young girl named Alia, whom Shivam had cared for, is kidnapped by a human-trafficking gang and taken to Bangkok.

An Interpol officer asks Shivam to infiltrate the gang and rescue the kidnapped children. In Bangkok, he encounters Zara (Disha Patani) and the dangerous gangster Sikandar (Anirudh Rawal). The rest of the story revolves around Shivam's mission to save Alia and the other children.

How is the movie?

The review feels that Awarapan 2 did not really need to be a sequel. The story could have worked as a standalone action thriller.

The basic theme—a hero going to extreme lengths to save a child close to him—is familiar and has been seen in several films before. However, the Bangkok setting, fast-paced screenplay and action sequences keep the movie reasonably engaging.

The first half follows a familiar gangster-thriller formula, with Shivam trying to infiltrate Sikandar's gang. The investigation involving the container where the children are held and the gang's internal betrayal angle are predictable.

The film becomes more interesting once Zara discovers why Shivam has come to Bangkok. However, the romantic track and songs in the second half slow things down.

The confrontation between Shivam and Sikandar provides the main dramatic conflict, while an intense action sequence brings the film to an energetic conclusion.

Performances

Emraan Hashmi: Gives a controlled and convincing performance as Shivam. His acting and action sequences provide the character with the required heroism.

Disha Patani: Looks good but her character is only average.

Anirudh Rawal: One of the highlights of the film. His performance as Sikandar is considered an impressive debut.

Shabana Azmi: Makes an impact in an important supporting role.

Technical Aspects

The background score, action choreography and relatively short runtime work in the film's favour. Director Nitin Kakkar keeps the presentation sharp and avoids unnecessary stretching.

Strengths

Emraan Hashmi's performance

Anirudh Rawal's debut

Action sequences

Runtime

Background music

Weaknesses

Predictable scenes

Unnecessary romantic track in the second half

Story feels familiar

Final Verdict

Awarapan 2 may not have been necessary as a sequel, but it is still a reasonably entertaining action thriller.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½/5

The opening Test is being played in Galle, with India aiming to strengthen its position in the World Test Championship race. The series is also important for Gambhir following India's recent struggles in the Ireland and England series.

Kirsten Praises Gambhir’s Record

Kirsten, who has previously worked with Gambhir during his playing career, described the former India batter as an intelligent cricketer and a capable coach.

He highlighted Gambhir's success in winning the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy, as well as his association with Kolkata Knight Riders' 2024 IPL title-winning campaign as a mentor.

Kirsten said Gambhir's achievements speak for themselves and recalled his experience of working with him when Kirsten was India's head coach.

Kirsten Recalls India’s 2008–2011 Era

Kirsten also reflected on his time as India's head coach between 2008 and 2011, a period that culminated in India's 2011 ODI World Cup triumph.

He described those three years as a memorable experience and praised the talent within the Indian dressing room. Kirsten said it was an honour to work with the Indian players and appreciated the trust they placed in him.

With the India-Sri Lanka Test series now underway, Kirsten's comments provide a strong endorsement of Gambhir as he seeks to establish his impact in the longest format.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Shubman Gill and other members of the Indian squad participated in the ceremony.

Gambhir Pays Tribute to Freedom Fighters

Gambhir paid his respects to the freedom fighters who contributed to India's independence. The celebration took place before the start of the opening Test in Galle.

Gill Proud to Lead India on Independence Day

Shubman Gill expressed his happiness at captaining the Indian side on a special day for the country.

The BCCI shared a video of the Independence Day celebrations on its social media platforms, showing members of the Indian team participating in the flag-hoisting ceremony.

The Indian team then turned its attention to the first Test against Sri Lanka, which began in Galle on Saturday.

Padikkal was unbeaten on 81, while Rahul was batting on 63 as India reached 180/1 after 50 overs. The pair had added 133 runs for the second wicket, putting India in a commanding position.

Padikkal Leads India's Charge

Padikkal brought up his half-century from 81 deliveries and continued to build his innings confidently. His knock included several attacking strokes as he moved steadily towards his maiden Test century.

Rahul, meanwhile, played a composed innings and reached his 21st Test half-century from 127 balls.

Jaiswal Falls After Positive Start

India lost their first wicket for 47 runs when Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32 off 37 balls.

Jaiswal had started positively, hitting five boundaries before his innings ended following a mix-up involving Rahul. Padikkal then joined Rahul at the crease and helped rebuild the innings.

Rain Interrupts Play

Rain caused a lengthy interruption after the lunch break, with play delayed for around 90 minutes as ground staff worked to remove water and prepare the outfield.

India resumed their innings at 104/1 and continued to progress steadily despite Sri Lanka using spin to slow the scoring rate.

India Reach Historic Test Milestone

The match is particularly significant for Indian cricket as it marks India's 600th Test match. India became only the third team to reach the landmark, behind England and Australia.

The Test is also the 50th Test played by India at Galle, according to the supplied match report.

Playing XIs

India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill (Captain), Devdutt Padikkal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

Sri Lanka: Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (Captain), Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella (WK), Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando.

NEW DELHI, August 15, 2026: Six years after MS Dhoni quietly announced his retirement from international cricket, his legacy remains deeply associated with India's most successful modern cricketing era.

The former India captain, wicketkeeper and three-time ICC trophy-winning skipper chose a characteristically understated way to end his international career—without a farewell match or elaborate ceremony.

THE UNEXPECTED ANNOUNCEMENT

On August 15, 2020, Dhoni posted a message informing fans that he should be considered retired from international cricket from 19:29 hours that evening.

Instead of a conventional retirement statement, he used a song from Amitabh Bachchan's film Kabhi Kabhie as the background to his post.

The announcement came more than 13 months after his last international appearance, which was India's 2019 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand.

NO FAREWELL MATCH

Dhoni did not seek the traditional farewell that many great players receive.

He had already played his final international match in July 2019, before announcing his retirement in August 2020.

His decision reflected his preference for letting his performances define his career rather than seeking a ceremonial farewell.

Former India teammate Suresh Raina also announced his retirement on the same day.

CAPTAINCY LEGACY

Dhoni's international career began in 2004, and he quickly became one of India's most successful captains.

Major achievements as captain:

Led India to victory in the 2007 T20 World Cup.

Captained India to the 2011 ODI World Cup.

India won the 2013 Champions Trophy under his leadership.

He became the only captain to win all three major ICC limited-overs trophies.

His winning six in the 2011 World Cup final remains one of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket.

SUCCESS IN THE IPL

Dhoni also enjoyed extraordinary success in the Indian Premier League with the Chennai Super Kings.

He led CSK to five IPL titles, establishing himself as one of the most successful captains in the tournament's history.

Even after stepping away from international cricket, his presence continued to attract enormous attention during IPL seasons.

FROM CRICKETER TO SOLDIER

Dhoni has also maintained a strong association with the Indian armed forces.

He currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army and has completed five parachute-training camps.

He also served for around two weeks in Jammu and Kashmir.

Dhoni has previously spoken about his childhood desire to serve the country as a soldier and said he takes particular pride in that role.

WHY NO. 7 BECAME SPECIAL

The No. 7 jersey became inseparable from Dhoni's identity during his international career.

For millions of Indian cricket fans, the number immediately evokes memories of:

The 2011 World Cup-winning six

His finishing ability

His wicketkeeping

His calm captaincy

India's major ICC victories

His leadership of Chennai Super Kings

His retirement therefore marked the end of an international career that had made “7” one of the most recognisable numbers in Indian cricket.

SIX YEARS LATER

Dhoni's retirement was unusual because there was no farewell match, stadium ceremony or extended announcement.

Instead, he simply posted his decision—and moved on.

That quiet ending became another example of the personality that earned him the nickname “Captain Cool.”

KEY POINTS

Dhoni announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020.

He retired at 19:29 hours.

His final international match was in the 2019 World Cup semi-final.

He won three major ICC trophies as India's captain.

He led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.

India won the 2013 Champions Trophy under him.

He won five IPL titles with Chennai Super Kings.

Suresh Raina also retired on August 15, 2020.

Dhoni holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army.

His No. 7 jersey remains one of the strongest symbols of his cricketing legacy.

Chief Minister Vijay participated in the celebrations and unfurled the National Flag at the Secretariat.

ACTOR TRISHA ATTENDS EVENT

The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Vijay's parents along with popular actor Trisha.

The presence of the actor added further attention to the Independence Day celebrations held at the state Secretariat.

KEY POINTS

Tamil Nadu observed the 80th Independence Day with official celebrations.

The main ceremony was held at the Chennai Secretariat.

CM Vijay unfurled the National Flag.

Vijay's parents attended the event.

Actor Trisha also participated in the celebrations.

The TDB and Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) are making arrangements to provide facilities for devotees visiting the temple.

TEMPLE TO OPEN AT 5 PM

According to the TDB statement, the temple will be reopened at 5 pm on Sunday in the presence of temple priest Kandararu Brahmadathan.

The main priest, Prasad E.D., will open the temple for the Chingam month rituals.

DARSHAN FOR DEVOTEES FROM AUGUST 17

Devotees will be allowed darshan from 5 am on August 17, marking the beginning of the Malayalam New Year.

The temple authorities and transport services are preparing arrangements to manage the expected flow of pilgrims.

TEMPLE TO CLOSE ON AUGUST 21

After the completion of the Chingam month pujas, the temple will be closed at 10 pm on August 21.

It will subsequently reopen on August 24 for the Onam festival pujas.

KEY DATES

Event Date & Time

Temple reopening August 16, 5 PM

Devotee darshan begins August 17, 5 AM

Chingam pujas conclude / temple closes August 21, 10 PM

Temple reopens for Onam pujas August 24

KEY POINTS

Sabarimala temple will reopen Sunday evening.

Reopening is for Chingam month pujas.

Devotee darshan begins August 17 at 5 AM.

TDB and KSRTC are making arrangements for pilgrims.

Temple closes again on August 21 at 10 PM.

It reopens on August 24 for Onam festival pujas.

NEW DELHI, August 15, 2026: President Droupadi Murmu said students are the architects of the country's future, stressing the need for collective efforts to protect young people's present and future.

Addressing the nation on the eve of India's 80th Independence Day, the President said the government was undertaking comprehensive reforms to prevent examination-paper leaks and make the examination system transparent, secure and trustworthy.

GOVERNMENT TAKING STEPS AGAINST PAPER LEAKS

President Murmu said examination-paper leaks threaten the future of young people and therefore require systemic reforms.

She called for cooperation from society as a whole to safeguard students' interests, just as the country comes together on issues of national security.

YOUTH MOVING FROM JOB SEEKERS TO JOB CREATORS

The President praised India's young generation for increasingly embracing a culture of creating employment rather than merely seeking jobs.

She also pointed to the growing recognition of Indian youth internationally, saying major global organisations are attracted by their talent and dedication and are giving them leadership responsibilities.

SPORTS AND NATION BUILDING

President Murmu described major sporting initiatives such as Khelo India as important instruments for youth development and nation building.

She said sporting opportunities can contribute to the development of young people while strengthening the country's broader social and national development.

INDIA'S FOREIGN POLICY

The President said India's international relations are rooted in the ideal of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family.

Recalling Telugu poet Gurajada Apparao's famous words, “A country is not merely its soil; a country is its people,” she urged citizens to contribute towards India's complete development by 2047.

MESSAGE ON NATIONAL SECURITY

President Murmu described the decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty with a country that, according to the speech, provides shelter to terrorist networks as a decisive step taken in the national interest.

She praised the Indian armed forces for their actions against terrorism and said Operation Sindoor sent a strong message to terrorist groups and their supporters that they would have to face the consequences of terrorism.

She also referred to Kargil Vijay Diwas and the anniversary of Operation Sindoor as examples of India's military capability.

NAXALISM

On internal security, the President described the elimination of Naxalism after decades of struggle as a significant achievement.

She said the country's security environment has been strengthened through sustained efforts.

INDIA'S ECONOMIC GROWTH

President Murmu said India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy in the world.

She noted that India's growth rate is projected to remain more than twice the global average.

Despite wars and instability in different parts of the world, she said initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan are strengthening the foundations of India's economic progress and national security.

FULL 'VANDE MATARAM' SUNG BEFORE AND AFTER SPEECH

A notable feature of this year's Independence Day address was the singing of the complete Vande Mataram before and after the President's speech, followed by the national anthem.

According to the supplied report, this was described as the first such occasion in the country's history.

KEY POINTS

President Murmu called students the architects of India's future.

Government is undertaking reforms to tackle examination-paper leaks.

She urged society to collectively protect students' future.

Indian youth are increasingly becoming job creators.

Khelo India was highlighted as a tool for youth development.

India's foreign relations were linked to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

The President praised the armed forces and referred to Operation Sindoor.

She described the elimination of Naxalism as a major internal-security achievement.

India continues to be described as a rapidly growing major economy.

Atmanirbhar Bharat was highlighted as important for economic and national security.

Complete Vande Mataram was sung before and after the address, according to the supplied report.

MUMBAI, August 15, 2026: Mahindra Group is preparing to enter the long-distance heavy-duty electric truck segment as charging infrastructure across India expands.

Mahindra Group senior executive Vinod Sahay said the company's objective is to develop electric heavy trucks capable of travelling at least 500 kilometres on a single charge.

The comments came during the launch of the company's new-generation Blazo i-TRK truck.

500-KM ELECTRIC TRUCK TARGET

According to Sahay, Mahindra plans to introduce heavy-duty electric trucks for long-distance freight transportation once charging facilities become sufficiently widespread.

The company sees charging infrastructure as a key requirement for the large-scale adoption of electric heavy trucks.

FOCUS ON HEAVY TRUCK MARKET

Mahindra is also targeting a recovery in its position in the heavy-truck segment.

The company previously held around 5% market share in the segment and is now aiming to regain that position through the introduction of new products.

NEW BLAZO i-TRK

The newly launched Blazo i-TRK is positioned as a next-generation truck featuring:

Improved fuel efficiency

A high-performance powertrain

Advanced connected technology

An industry-leading uptime guarantee

Mahindra says these features are designed to help truck owners improve operational productivity while reducing maintenance expenses.

BENEFITS FOR TRUCK OPERATORS

According to the company, better fuel efficiency and higher vehicle uptime could help operators:

Improve productivity

Reduce operating and maintenance costs

Increase vehicle utilisation

Improve overall revenue potential

ELECTRIC FUTURE

Mahindra's planned 500-km electric heavy truck highlights the growing focus on electrification of India's commercial-vehicle sector.

However, the company has not specified in the supplied report a launch date, battery capacity or price for the planned long-range electric heavy-duty truck.

KEY POINTS

Mahindra plans long-range electric heavy trucks.

Target range: at least 500 km per charge.

Wider charging infrastructure is considered essential.

New Blazo i-TRK has been launched.

Mahindra aims to regain its earlier 5% heavy-truck market share.

Blazo features improved efficiency, performance and connected technology.

The company says lower operating costs can improve truck-owner profitability.

NEW DELHI, August 15, 2026: The Central Government has reduced the windfall gains tax on exports of petrol, diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF).

The revised rates will come into effect from August 15 and remain applicable for two weeks, according to the report.

DIESEL EXPORT TAX CUT

The Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) on diesel exports has been reduced from:

₹25.50 per litre → ₹24 per litre

This represents a reduction of ₹1.50 per litre.

ATF EXPORT TAX CUT

The excise duty on ATF exports has been reduced from:

₹22 per litre → ₹19.50 per litre

The reduction amounts to ₹2.50 per litre.

PETROL EXPORT DUTY SCRAPPED

The government has reduced the export duty on petrol from:

₹3.50 per litre → Nil

This means the additional export duty on petrol has effectively been removed under the latest revision.

NEW RATES

Fuel Earlier rate Revised rate Change

Diesel ₹25.50/litre ₹24/litre ↓ ₹1.50

ATF ₹22/litre ₹19.50/litre ↓ ₹2.50

Petrol ₹3.50/litre ₹0 ↓ ₹3.50

WHY WAS THE WINDfall TAX IMPOSED?

The government had introduced higher export duties amid West Asia tensions, with the stated objective of improving domestic fuel availability.

According to the report:

Export duty on diesel and ATF was increased from March 27.

Export duty on petrol was increased from May 16.

The rates have subsequently been reviewed every 15 days.

WHAT DOES THE LATEST MOVE MEAN?

The reduction gives fuel exporters some relief by lowering the additional tax burden on exported petroleum products.

At the same time, the government continues to review the rates periodically in response to international energy-market conditions and domestic fuel requirements.

KEY POINTS

Windfall gains tax on fuel exports has been reduced.

Diesel SAED cut to ₹24/litre.

ATF export duty cut to ₹19.50/litre.

Petrol export duty reduced to zero.

New rates apply from August 15 for two weeks.

Export taxes are reviewed every 15 days.

The earlier tax increases were introduced amid West Asia tensions and concerns over domestic fuel availability.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT

The government is expected to review the fuel export-duty rates again after the latest two-week period, depending on international crude and refined-product markets and domestic fuel availability.