The big news: India, Syria agree to boost security consultations, and nine other top stories
The Finance Ministry may advance the Union Budget by a month, and Sakshi Malik was India's flagbearer at the Rio Olympics closing ceremony.
A look at the headlines right now:
- As a growing power, India has a role to play in fighting terrorism, says Syrian President Bashar al-Assad: In a meeting with Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar, he also agreed to boost security consultations between the two countries.
- Finance Ministry may advance Union Budget by a month: The government is considering doing away with the distinction between plan and non-plan expenditure and replacing it with capital and revenue expenditure.
- Bronze-medallist Sakshi Malik India's flagbearer at the Rio Olympics closing ceremony: The wrestler was the first to win for the country at the Summer Games.
- Nitish Kumar calls on Centre for silt management policy in Ganga as Bihar faces flood-like situation: The chief minister blamed the overflowing of the river on the 'slow discharge of water" from West Bengal's Farakka Dam and demanded that it be closed.
- Arvind Kejriwal's new liquor policy politically motivated to attract voters, says Prashant Bhushan: The advocate and Swaraj Abhiyan founder questioned whether the rule will be continued after Delhi's civic polls and the Assembly elections in Punjab.
- Arun Jaitley blames Pakistan for Kashmir unrest, says India's unity is being challenged: According to the Union finance minister, the Narendra Modi government at the Centre will not compromise on security.
- Rape case filed against JNU student for assaulting PhD scholar: All-India Students' Association activist Anmol Ratan drugged the woman's drink before raping her in the boys' hostel, according to her complaint.
- Congress criticises Mohan Bhagwat's remark about Hindu population and Hindutva: Responding to a question about the alleged growth in Muslim population, the RSS chief on Saturday said there is no law against Hindus having more children.
- Coup 'mastermind' Gulen's terror organisation has infiltrated India, claims Turkey foreign minister: Mevlut Cavusoglu said the US-based Islamic preacher's outfit, FETO, has found its way into the country through associations and schools.
- At least 20 people killed in two suicide blasts in Somalia: Al Qaeda affiliated militant group al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the attacks in Galkayo, 700 kilometers from the country's capital.