PM, Nadda to pick NDA VP Candidate
The NDA has unanimously authorised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President JP Nadda to choose its candidate for the upcoming vice presidential election, scheduled for September 9. The move comes as the Election Commission of India began the nomination process, with August 21 as the last date for filing nominations. The post fell vacant following Jagdeep Dhankhar's resignation. The NDA, with a combined support of around 422 MPs across both Houses, holds a clear majority. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the alliance is open to discussions if the Opposition seeks consensus.
Putin to visit India, says NSA
Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit India later this year, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval announced during his Moscow trip. Though official dates remain unconfirmed, Doval said the visit is "almost finalised," highlighting the strength of Indo-Russian ties. The Kremlin and MEA have yet to release formal statements. The development comes amid rising India-US tensions over New Delhi's trade with Moscow.
Non-Muslim FT cases dropped
The Assam government has directed districts to drop all ongoing Foreigners Tribunal cases against non-Muslim migrants who entered before December 31, 2014, in line with the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. Officials were instructed to review such cases, support eligible applicants, and submit action reports. Cases against Gorkhas and Koch Rajbongshis are also to be withdrawn.