😠 Congress slams UPI fee hike as 'Trump Appeasement'

Congress accused the government of yielding to US demands by imposing a 0.4% fee on UPI merchant transfers above ₹2,000 starting October 15. Jairam Ramesh made these remarks on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, questioning if this enables US card companies to compete with UPI. He also referenced a US House Bill introducing 100% tariffs on India, which the Senate has already approved. Ramesh argued the PM has redefined NOTA, linking the fee to ongoing US pressure, especially concerning Indian immigrants. The government clarified that everyday person-to-person payments remain free, but the opposition continues to criticize the 'Modi tax'.

📉 Fed hike and bond yields stress Indian markets

Soaring US bond yields and an expected Fed rate hike are causing market jitters for Indian equities. This week, the benchmark 10-year US Treasury yield surpassed 5% for the first time since 2023. Economists predict the Federal Reserve might hike rates further by the end of March, amid inflation concerns. Analysts warn this tight global monetary policy could trigger capital outflows and pressure on the rupee. Therefore, a cautious 'wait and watch' approach is advised while assessing these shifting global factors. 😟

🚨 Dad and son busted over huge cannabis stash in Telangana

A man and his son were arrested following the discovery of a massive cannabis crop. The incident took place on a farm in Telangana. Authorities found the stash to be worth approximately Rs 1.5 Crore. This illegal cultivation operation was discovered during a routine police raid. Further investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the drug network. 🚨

🛰️ EU launches Sentinel-3C for Earth monitoring

The European Union successfully launched Copernicus Sentinel-3C from Kourou, French Guiana, on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. This mission, in partnership with ESA and Arianespace, confirmed the satellite is healthy after its first contact at 04:33 CEST. Sentinel-3C will provide crucial data on ocean health, land, atmosphere, and climate for global users. It will track sea surface temperature, wildfires, and climate change, supporting disaster response and science. The satellite will be fully operational after several months of commissioning to maintain the Sentinel-3 mission's capacity. 🛰️

🔥 Two Kuki women killed in suspected militant attack in Manipur

Two Kuki-Zo women, Chonga Sitlhou and Kimneo Singson, were killed in a suspected militant attack in Tamenglong district, Manipur. The incident occurred around 3 pm in Leisangphai village on Tuesday. This attack follows four other Kuki community deaths in Tamenglong on Sunday. The Kuki-Zo Council condemned the violence, blaming Naga insurgent groups for the killings. Tensions remain high amidst wider ethnic conflicts in the state. 💔

🙏 Salman Khan's sibling moment goes viral during Ganpati

Salman Khan made a small mistake with the thali direction during the Ganpati aarti celebrations. This happened at his brother Sohail Khan's residence in Bandra West with his family present. The candid moment was captured on video and quickly shared across social media platforms. Fans appreciated the warm interaction between the brother and his sister, Arpita Khan Sharma. Salman is currently hosting the latest season of 'Bigg Boss' while awaiting 'Maatrubhumi' release.

🏛️ SC won't change probe panel on NEET protests

The Supreme Court refused to reconstitute the High-Powered Enquiry Committee (HPEC) regarding NEET-UG protests. This decision was made by a three-judge Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant. The committee, formed on August 20, is set to investigate issues like pellet gun use and police excesses from the July 20 crackdown. The court stressed that the HPEC must maintain fairness and transparency while investigating all allegations. Furthermore, an online portal was ordered for vulnerable witnesses to submit evidence safely. 🛡️

⚠️ Warning on fake Pakistani whitening creams in India

The CDSCO has issued an alert regarding unauthorized cosmetic products from Pakistan being sold across India. Specifically, 'Goree Beauty Cream' and 'Chandni Whitening Cream' were flagged for lack of trade registration certificates. These products were identified as containing heavy metals exceeding safe limits, posing potential health risks to consumers. The regulator strongly advised the public against purchasing or using these specific cosmetics. Furthermore, all entities were warned against selling, distributing, or advertising these dangerous items.

🛠️ Bengaluru CEO Fixes Pothole With His Own Cash

A Bengaluru CEO decided to fix a broken footpath because civic authorities ignored his complaints about potholes. The resident spent ₹2,700 from his personal money to build a cement ramp at a damaged junction on his route. He had previously raised a ticket on the BBMP portal and contacted helplines, receiving only automated responses. By arranging materials and labor through a friend, he completed the repair himself. This action aims to make the pavement accessible for pedestrians, wheelchairs, and strollers.

👮 Delhi Cop Suspended for Firearm Videos During BRICS

Delhi Police constable Deepak Bangar has been suspended for posting social media videos showing him with a firearm. This incident occurred while he was on duty at the recently concluded 18th BRICS summit in New Delhi. The summit took place from September 11, 2026 to September 13, 2026, under heavy security protocols. Several circulating videos show Bangar posing with guns on a high-rise rooftop during the event. A departmental enquiry is currently underway regarding his actions. 👮

📰 Messi visit row leads to FIR against reporter company

A First Information Report (FIR) was registered by Kalamassery police concerning alleged financial misappropriation related to the failed Messi visit attempt. The FIR targets Anto Augustine of Reporter Broadcasting Company and the company itself in Kochi. This action followed an SIT probe into activities dating back to before December 20, 2024, involving fake agreements. The charges include cheating and criminal conspiracy for profiteering from the State government and public. Police are now conducting searches based on a Magistrate’s warrant to verify digital evidence. 🧐