After many contentions & a RSS intervention, BJP UP Chief to be announced soon?

The Bharatiya Janata Party is expected to announce its new Uttar Pradesh chief soon, following weeks of internal consultations and deliberations. According to sources, there had been differences between the party’s central leadership and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over the choice of candidate for the post. While Yogi was reportedly keen on appointing a leader considered close to his camp, the BJP high command wanted someone with broader organizational acceptance to balance regional and caste equations ahead of upcoming polls. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is said to have played a crucial mediating role, helping bridge the communication gap between the two sides. With the Sangh’s intervention, the deadlock has largely been resolved, and a consensus candidate has emerged. An official announcement is expected shortly, signaling the leadership’s intent to project unity and organizational coherence in India’s most politically significant state. 

Trump administration pitching for Core 5 (C5) against G7 with India as a part?

Reports suggest the Donald Trump administration is exploring the creation of a new international bloc called C5 (Core 5) as an alternative to the G7. According to Politico, the proposed grouping would include the United States, Russia, China, India, and Japan. The idea, reportedly discussed in Washington and mentioned in an unpublished draft of the U.S. National Security Strategy accessed by Defense One, would aim to establish a union free from G7’s conditions and restrictions.Sources indicate the C5’s initial focus could be resolving Middle East tensions, particularly the normalization of ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia. While Deputy White House Press Secretary Anna Kelly declined to confirm the document’s existence, analysts believe the initiative aligns with Trump’s foreign policy style—favoring pragmatic cooperation among strong global powers over ideological alliances. Experts say it underscores Trump’s view of international relations through strategic spheres of influence. 

Final appointments of CIC and IC are expected to be announced in a day or two.The Central Information will have new CIC.

Name of Praveen Vashistha is now doing the rounds for Vigilance Commissioner in the CVC. He is a 1991 batch IPS officer of Bihar cadre. Announcement is likely in a day or two.

Vatsa Sehra has been deputed as Joint Director in the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), Delhi. He is an IRS-IT officer. 

As many as 15 candidates have been shortlisted to be interviewed for the posts of Members, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). Five candidates: Raj Kumar, Valte Vungzamuan, Prachi Saroop, Rimjhim Prasad and Rajesh Jindal will be interviewed on December 29, 2025 while Mayank Kumar, Arti A Srinivas, Shailendra Kumar Sinha, Abhai Kumar Srivastava and S K Vimalanathan appear for the interviews on December 30, 2025 and Vimal Kumar Srivastava, Sanjay Mangal, Sunil Jain, Anuj Gogia and Kajal Singh are being interviewed on January 2, 2026.

The six-month extension of Rajeev Singh Thakur (IAS: RJ: 1995), Adviser, NITI Aayog, underscores the government’s emphasis on maintaining continuity in key policy-level decision-making during a critical phase of ongoing reform initiatives. As an Additional Secretary-level officer with deep experience in economic policy, industrial strategy, and public administration, Thakur’s continued presence ensures stability in project oversight, inter-ministerial coordination, and long-term policy formulation. His role in evaluating sectoral strategies and monitoring flagship programmes makes institutional continuity particularly vital for sustaining policy momentum. The extension also indicates a preference for leveraging domain expertise over frequent bureaucratic reshuffles, especially as NITI Aayog pushes forward with developmental blueprints and performance-based frameworks for states. By retaining an experienced hand, the government reinforces its intent to preserve administrative consistency, preventing disruptions in decision cycles and ensuring smooth execution of strategic policy goals under the national development agenda.

Satvik Dev, Joint Commissioner/OSD (TRU), СBIC is set to join the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister(EAC-PM), on attachment basis for a period of one year. He is a 2014 batch IRS(C&IT) officer.

The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has failed to find a suitable candidate for the post of Managing Director, Bengal Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Limited (BCPL) at a selection meeting held on December 11, 2025. The Board, which interviewed as many as nine candidates, has recommended the Ministry to select the candidate through Search cum Selection Committee (SCSC).

Former Chief Secretary of Gujarat Pankaj Joshi has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC). He is 1989 batch IAS officer.

Satyanarain Gupta, CVO, SAIL, has been assigned an additional charge of CVO, RINL, Visakhapatnam, for a period of one year. He is a 1993 batch ITS officer.

Ms Vinita Narera, CVO, REC, has been entrusted with an additional charge of CVO, PFC, for a period of six months. She is a 2000 batch IRSSE officer.

The MIB has reportedly received 7 applications from IIS officers against 5 posts of PB Foreign Correspondents. The posts are located at Dubai, Kathmandu, Colombo, Dhaka and Beijing.

The central deputation tenure of Prabhat Kumar working as DCO/DCR, Jharkhand has been extended upto March 31, 2026. He is a 2011 batch IAS officer of Jharkhand cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Amit Sharma working as DCO/DCR, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has been extended upto March 31, 2030. He is a 2012 batch IAS officer of AGMUT cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Ms Cheshta Yadav working as DCO/DCR, Goa, has been extended upto August 17, 2028. She is a 2014 batch IAS officer of AGMUT cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Ms Navjot Khosa working as DCO/DCR, Punjab & Chandigarh has been extended upto March 31, 2026. She is a 2012 batch IAS officer of Kerala cadre.

Ratan Biswas has been appointed as Director, Census Operations/Director of Citizen Registration, Tripura. He is a 2013 batch IAS officer of Tripura cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Zasekuolie Chusi working as DCO/DCR, Nagaland has been extended upto December, 2026. She is a 2011 batch IAS officer of Nagaland cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Ms Purva Garg working as DCO/DCR, Andaman & Nicobar has been extended upto August 10, 2028. She is a 2015 batch IAS officer of AGMUT cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Ms Bharati Holikeri working as DCO/DCR, Telangana, has been extended upto September, 2027. She is a 2010 batch IAS officer of Telangana cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Karma R Bonpo working as DCO/DCR, Sikkim, has been extended upto November 2027. He is a 2010 batch IAS officer of Sikkim cadre.

The central deputation tenure of J Nivas working as DCO/DCR, Andhra Pradesh, has been extended upto June, 2028. He is a 2010 batch IAS officer of AP cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Ms Iva Ashish Srivastava working as DCO/DCR, Uttarakhand has been extended upto April, 2026. She is a 2010 batch IAS officer of Uttarakhand cadre.

The central deputation tenure of M Sundaresh Babu working as DCO/DCR, Tamil Nadu & Puducherry, has been extended upto June, 2028. He is a 2012 batch IAS officer of Karnataka cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Jayantibhai Mayatra working as DCO/DCR, Gujarat, Daman & Dia and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, has been extended upto August 2028. He is a 2011 batch IAS officer of Gujarat cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Nikhil Pavan Kalyan working as DCO/DCR, Odisha, has been extended upto June 2028. He is a 2012 batch IAS officer of Odisha cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Lalit Jain working as DCO/DCR, Haryana, has been extended upto December, 2026. He is a 2011 batch IAS officer of HP cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Ms Deep Shikha Sharma working as DCO/DCR, Himachal Pradesh, has been extended upto June, 2028. She is a 2011 batch IFoS officer of AGMUT cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Ms Swadha Dev Singh working as DCO/DCR, New Delhi, has been extended upto March, 2030. She is a 2014 batch IAS officer of Odisha cadre.

Vaibhav Chandrakant Ghalme has been appointed as Senior Controller of Accounts, Central Board of Indirect Taxes (CBIC), Mumbai, upon return from Central Deputation. He is a 2011 batch ICAS officer.

Chanchal Kumar, Secretary, DONER, has been assigned an additional charge of Secretary, Telecommunications till December 21, 2025. He is a 1992 batch IAS officer of Bihar cadre.

The post of Prasad Arvind Chaphekar has been upgraded as Director in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. He is a 2012 batch IRS-IT officer.

The post of Vaibhav Rundwal has been upgraded as Director in the Housing & Urban Affairs. He is a 2012 batch IES officer.

The post of Puneet Meena has been upgraded as Director, Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). He is a 2011 batch IRAS officer.

The post of Mayank Tyagi has been upgraded as Director in the Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways. He is a 2012 batch IDAS officer.

The post of Manender has been upgraded as Director, Central Vigilance Commission. He is a 2011 batch IDAS officer.

The post of Sushant Sudan has been upgraded as Director, in the Department of Commerce. He is a 2012 batch IES officer. 

Ms Shalini Pandit has been nominated as Director, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). Currently, she is serving as Joint Secretary, Government of India, Ministry of Finance, Department of Financial Services with immediate effect . She is a 2001 batch IAS officer of Odisha cadre. 

Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has confirmed no proposal to raise judges’ retirement age (currently 62 for High Courts, 65 for Supreme Court), citing ongoing vacancies as a priority over age hikes.

Om Prakash, formerly Senior Professor, National Academy of Indian Railways (NAIR), has been given post-facto extension in his deputation tenure with Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) up to November 25, 2023, beyond the fifth year (i.e. from May 22, 2023). He is an Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) officer.

Tushar Kant Pandey, who is presently serving as Senior Deputy General Manager (SDGM), North Eastern Railway (NER), has been appointed and posted as SDGM in the Railway itself. He is an Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) officer.

Rajesh Kumar Shekhawat, who is presently serving as Principal Chief Engineer (PCE), East Coast Railway (ECoR), has been appointed and posted as PCE on the Railway itself. He is an Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) officer. 

 

DS Reddy, who is presently serving as Principal Chief Engineer (PCE), South Central Railway (SCR), has been appointed and posted as PCE on the Railway itself. He is an Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) officer.

Sandeep Jain, who is presently serving as Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), RSP, South Central Railway (SCR), has been appointed and posted as CAO, RSP, on the Railway itself. He is an Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) officer.

 Shift to real-time ITR refund tracking with live status, timelines, and escalation tools—predicted for Budget 2026 to address delays. Benefits salaried individuals and MSMEs; 75% of taxpayers already opted for the new regime with nil tax up to ₹12 lakh.

 GST collections rose 12% YoY in November 2025, reflecting post-rate-cut consumption trends. ICAI released updated Technical Guides on GSTR-9 and GSTR-9C for FY 2024-25 on December 8, 2025, aiding annual return reconciliation. Phase III HSN code changes in GSTR-1/1A (effective February 2025) introduce dropdown selections, B2B/B2C bifurcation, and value/tax validations (initially as warnings).

Signed for joint programs in media management and communication research. Involves Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal (IIM Sambalpur Director) and Mr. Madhu L. Nag (IIS Registrar, IIMC). 

 At Hindustan Times Leadership Summit 2025 (December 6), CJI Kant prioritized a “national judicial policy” to standardise practices across courts, reduce “divergent judgments” (e.g., on bail/reservations), and create predictable timelines for case disposal. Predictions include mandatory mediation for 50% of civil cases by 2026 and AI integration for triage. This could cut pendency by 20% in five years, per India Justice Report 2025 trends.

 ISRO chief’s recent statement that IITians avoid joining due to low salaries (~₹1.2L/month entry-level vs. private sector). Whispers predict policy push for higher R&D pay; calls to cut freebies for R&D budget hike. Speculation: IIST’s removal of automatic ISRO placements signals broader retention crisis. 

Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation Limited (MRVC) has advertised the post of Assistant Manager (Telecom). Applications can be sent to career@mrvc.gov.in. applications must reach latest by January 7, 2026. 

Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) has advertised the post of Manager (HR) for Delhi and Managers (Civil) for Delhi, Varanasi and Mumbai. Applications for the same must reach latest by January 7, 2026. 

Ministry of Jal Shakti has advertised the post of Assistant Adviser (PHE) on deputation basis. Details can be availed from  https://jalshakti-ddws.gov.in. 

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has advertised the post of Consultant (Coordinator) in Desertification Cell, National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board, New Delhi. Details can be availed from  the ministry’s website.  

Details can be availed from the website of Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.  

Two posts of Director in Anusandhan National Research Foundation have been advertised. Applications must reach latest by December 31, 2025. 

As many as 27 candidates have been  finalised for the posts of Assistant Programmer posts in Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). These officers include Kewal Krishna, Sudhanshu Kumar Rai, Shubham Kumar Gupta, Surbhi Agarwal, Aravind KB, Biruduraju Darahasini, Vikas, Adarsh Chaudhary, Hari Singh, Harikrishnans, Harsh Chandrakar, Vishal Verma, Yugal Sharma, Abhimanyu Verma, Kavya Kishore, TS Sahil, Akhileshwar Mauryа, Pallapothala Tejaswini, Spandan Halder, Devendra Kumar Bharti, Deepankar Singh, Sampat Ram, Himanshu Sharma, Saurabh Jareda, Rasika Pramod Kulkarni, Tushar Sharma, Ashish Singhal.  

World Bank has advertised the post of Senior Underwriter for Washington, DC, United States. Applications must reach latest by December 31, 2025. 

World Bank has advertised the post of Senior Procurement Specialist for Dakar, Senegal. Applications must reach latest by January 6, 2026.

Awadhesh Kumar, who is presently on deputation to Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) as Joint General Manager (Electrical), has been selected for deputation as General Manager (Elect) in RLDA at Delhi for a period of three years. He is an Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE) officer.

Birendra Singh Chauhan, formerly Assistant Operations Manager (Planning), North Central Railway (NCR), has been given post-facto sanction for extension in his deputation tenure as PM (Traffic) with Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) for a period up to December 18, 2023. He is an Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS) officer.

Happy Walia, who is currently serving as Chief Administrative Officer (Projects and M&P), Northern Railway (NR), has been delegated the administrative and financial powers of Principal Chief Administrative Officer, Central Organisation for Modernisation of Workshops (Principal CAO/COFMOW). He is an Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME) officer.

Umesh Kumar, who is presently serving in Western Railway (WR), has been transferred and posted as Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Bilaspur, South East Central Railway (SECR). He is an Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers (IRSSE) officer.

Deepak Kumar Gupta, who is presently serving in Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), and posted as Chief Electrical Loco Engineer (CELE) on the Railway itself. He is an Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE) officer.

 

Satya Prakash, who is currently serving as Inspector General-cum-Principal Chief Security Commissioner (IG-cum-PCSC) in Chittaranjan Locomotive Works (CLW), has been transferred to North Eastern Railway (NER) and posted in the same capacity. He is an Indian Railway Protection Force Service (IRPFS) officer.

 

Ms. Renu Pushkar Chhibber, who is currently serving as Inspector General-cum-Principal Chief Security Commissioner (IG-cum-PCSC) in North Central Railway (NCR), has been transferred to Rail Coach Factory (RCF) and posted in the same capacity. She is an Indian Railway Protection Force Service (IRPFS) officer.

 

Pradeep Kumar Gupta, who is currently serving as Inspector General-cum-Principal Chief Security Commissioner (IG-cum-PCSC) in Rail Coach Factory (RCF), has been transferred to North Central Railway (NCR) and shifted in the same capacity. He is an Indian Railway Protection Force Service (IRPFS) officer.

RK Choudhary, who is currently serving as Principal Chief Electrical Engineer (PCEE) in East Central Railway (ECR), has been transferred to South East Central Railway (SECR) and shifted in the same capacity. He is an Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE) officer.

Rajiv Kumar Barnwal, who is currently serving as Principal Chief Electrical Engineer (PCEE) in South East Central Railway (SECR), has been transferred to East Central Railway (ECR) and shifted in the same capacity. He is an Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE) officer.

Mahesh Kumar, who is presently serving in Eastern Railway (ER) and returning from leave, has been transferred to South Eastern Railway (SER) and posted as Chief Workshop Engineer (CWE). He is an Indian Railway Service of Mechanical Engineers (IRSME) officer.

RK Sethi, who is presently serving in Northeast Frontier Railway (Construction), has been transferred to Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) and posted as Chief Materials Manager (CMM), NFR. He is an Indian Railway Stores Service (IRSS) officer.

Vineet Kumar Srivastava, who is presently serving as Senior Deputy General Manager (SDGM), North Central Railway (NCR), has been detailed to look after the duties of Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO), Central Organisation for Railway Electrification (CORE), in addition to his own. He is an Indian Railway Service of Engineers (IRSE) officer.

REC Limited, a leading NBFC and a Maharatna CPSE under the Ministry of Power, is proud to announce leadership position in the latest ESG Ratings of Companies by NSE ESG Ratings, achieving an outstanding ESG score of 80. This top-ranking is a direct reflection of the company's comprehensive and sustained commitment to embedding Environmental, Social and Governance principles into its core operations over the past three years. REC attributes this success to a series of strategic and foundational steps taken under the guidance of the REC Board of Directors, beginning with the coining of its first-ever ESG Policy three years ago. Key actions that drove this achievement include: Strategic Planning and Oversight: Systematically mapping all ESG actionables, benchmarking against best practices and engagement with international forums i.e., Climate Disclosure Project (CDP), S&P CSA, MSCI etc. Net-Zero Pathway: Working towards development of a detailed action plan and pathway towards Net-Zero for REC. Operational ESG Excellence : Achieving 100% green power and Zero discharge building for REC Corporate Office, Major Office Fleet conversion to EV  etc. Awarded as GRIHA 5 rated building for REC Corporate Office. Enhanced HR policies and well being measures including mandatory training on Human Rights, Ethics, Health & Safety, Cyber Security, MCA's NGRBC Principles. Enhanced Disclosure Standards: Enhanced disclosures  in the Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR) and publishing of its 2nd  GRI referenced ESG Report for FY 2024-25. Strong Leadership and Culture: The Senior Management's exceptional and continuous support in promoting a deep-rooted ESG culture across the organization. Jitendra Srivastava, CMD, REC, commented, "This milestone affirms our strategic direction—from the inception of our policies and Net-Zero planning to the enhancement of our disclosures within the GRI framework. This achievement significantly underscores our steadfast dedication to advancing the Government of India’s ambitious Panchamrit goals, demonstrating that responsible business practices are integral to our success."

Marking a historic step in employee welfare and socio-economic upliftment, NLC India Limited (NLCIL) on December 11, 2025, held the Regularization Ceremony of 397 IndcoServe Society workmen, who have been associated with the organization for long, reinforcing NLCIL’s legacy of inclusive development and respect for workmen’s contribution. The ceremony was chaired by the Minister of Coal & Mines, G Krishan Reddy, who joined the event through Video Conference and extended his greetings and appreciation to the dedicated workforce of NLCIL. Dr. L Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs and Smt. Rupinder Brar, Addl. Secretary, Ministry of Coal, also participated in the event through Video Conference. In his keynote address, Dr. L. Murugan conveyed his best wishes to the workers. He noted that the regularisation of their services would bring meaningful improvements to the lives of the workers and their families, fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s commitment to providing employment opportunities. Delivering the Presidential Address, Shri G. Kishan Reddy congratulated all workers receiving their regularisation orders. He highlighted that nearly 2300 contract workers have been regularised at NLCIL since 2015. Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to inclusive development, he expressed confidence that NLCIL, which continues to expand its presence Nationwide, will achieve new milestones in the years ahead. Shri Reddy also commended NLCIL for its proactive initiatives in worker welfare, stating that this step reflects the Government’s dedication to equitable growth and workforce empowerment. He emphasised that the regularisation of long-serving workers demonstrates the  nation’s vision of progress built on respect, inclusion, and shared prosperity.He urged NLCIL to continue extending comprehensive support to its workforce by organising Health Camps, Training programmes, Skill development initiatives and mental wellness workshops. The ceremony was held in the esteemed presence of Shri Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, Chairman and Managing Director, NLC India Limited, along with Functional Directors, Chief Vigilance Officer, Executive Directors, Workers’ Union representatives, and the newly regularised employees. On behalf of the Hon’ble Minister, Shri Prasanna Kumar Motupalli presented the appointment orders to the newly regularised workmen, symbolising the fulfilment of a long-awaited commitment to the welfare and dignity of contract workers. Earlier, welcoming the gathering, Prasanna Kumar Motupalli expressed his gratitude to the Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy for his dynamic leadership, seamless support and guidance in all the activities of NLCIL. He highlighted that this current initiative of regularisation of 397 workmen strengthens the organisation’s human capital and aligns with the national mission of Viksit Bharat 2047, reinforcing the company’s role as a responsible PSU contributing to India’s sustainable development goals. He reiterated that employee welfare and upliftment continue to remain central to NLCIL’s operational ethos. The regularisation of 397 workmen stands as a major milestone in NLCIL’s continued journey towards social security and workforce development and marks a transformative enabler that will continue strengthening the organisation’s operational efficiency and vision for inclusive growth. Workers’ representatives expressed deep gratitude to the Hon’ble Minister and NLCIL Management for recognizing their years of committed service and for creating new pathways for dignity, stability, and progress. Samir Swarup, Director (HR), NLCIL, in his vote of thanks, reaffirmed the organisation’s strong commitment to the welfare of its workforce. He assured that NLCIL would extend its sustained support to all workers through various development and welfare oriented initiatives.

In a significant move to enhance accessibility and ease of examination for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD), the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has decided to allot the ‘Centre of Choice’ to all PwBD candidates for its examinations. Recognising the logistical challenges and special requirements often faced by these candidates, the Commission decided to ensure that every PwBD applicant is allotted the examination centre they indicate as their preferred choice in the application form.

The Government of Madhya Pradesh has removed Santosh Kumar Verma from the post of Deputy Secretary, Farmers' Welfare and Agriculture Development. He was removed at the instructions of the Chief Minister on the charges of violating business rules and submitting fake documents for obtaining IAS award.

The central deputation tenure of Manashvi Kumar working as Joint Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare has been extended for a period of two years beyond March 14, 2026. He is a 2004 batch IAS officer of Punjab cadre.

The central deputation tenure of Kartikeya Goel working as DCO/DCR, Chhattisgarh cadre has been extended upto August 2028. He is a 2010 batch IAS officer of Chhattisgarh cadre.

NBCC (India) Limited today conducted the Bhoomi Poojan Ceremony for the development of infrastructural facilities and related works at the Central University of Haryana (CUH), Mahendergarh. The project, valued at ₹196.98 crore, has been entrusted to NBCC on a Design, Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) basis. The ceremony was attended by Prof. Tankeshwar Kumar, Vice Chancellor, CUH, Prof. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Suneel Kumar, Registrar, K P Mahadevaswamy, CMD, NBCC, Rajeev Kumar, Chief General Manager, NBCC, senior officers of the University and officials from NBCC.

Project Overview

The development plan includes the construction of six major buildings with a total built-up area of 41,339 sqm. The facilities are designed to enhance the academic, research, and residential capacities of the University.

Major Components of the Project

School of Engineering & Technology Block: Smart classrooms, laboratories, faculty offices, and academic support spaces.

Lecture Hall Complex: A cluster of 16 modern lecture halls behind the existing Academic Block–I.

Central Instrumentation Centre: Dedicated facility for advanced research instrumentation and analytical work.

Computer Centre Building: Centralised IT hub for academic computing and e-governance services.

Girls’ Hostel (630 Capacity): Secure and well-equipped residential block with modern amenities.

Sustainability Features

The project incorporates solar power systems and green construction practices. It targets a minimum GRIHA 3-Star rating for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Impact

The new infrastructure will significantly strengthen the University’s academic ecosystem and support its mission of promoting excellence in higher education. The facilities will contribute to improved learning environments, advanced research capabilities, and enhanced residential amenities for students.

Prannoy Sharma, who is presently at foreign assignment at Universal Postal Union, Switzerland, has been granted proforma promotion to the Higher Administrative Grade (HAG) of Indian Postal Service. He is a 1998 batch IPoS officer.

Two IAS Officers in West Bengal: Ms Bandana Pokhriyal of 2016 batch and Ms Divya Murugesan of 2017 batch have been appointed as Joint Chief Electoral Officer.

Six IAS officers have been given new responsibilities in Bihar. Rajiv Roshan has been appointed as Secretary, Higher Education Department, while Himanshu Kumar Rai will join as Commissioner, Darbhanga Division, with additional charge of Tirhut and Saran divisions. Similarly, Avnish Kumar Singh Commissioner, Munger Division, will also hold charge of Commissioner, Bhagalpur Division; Kaushal Kishore joins as Secretary, Youth, Employment and Skill Development; Nilesh Ramchandra Deore as Special Secretary, Civil Aviation, Patna and will continue to hold additional charge of MD, Bihar Medical Services and Ajay Yadav, Secretary, De-addiction, Excise and Registration, has been relieved of the additional charge of all posts under Education Department. 

Marking two years since his December 13, 2023, oath as Chief Minister post-BJP's assembly win, Dr. Mohan Yadav – Ujjain-born PhD in political science with degrees in science, law, and business – has led with the disciplined focus of his ABVP student days, prioritizing results over rhetoric.

Naxalism's near-elimination stands out: Over 60 cadres surrendered since 2023, including two on Thursday in Balaghat under "Rehabilitation to Renewal," enabling Yadav's "naxal-free" declaration amid central support. Operations dismantled networks, but reintegration and isolated unrest demand ongoing skills training and vigilance.

Economically, MSME growth hit 31%, with RISE Conclave unlocking ₹5,000 crore for 47 units and 20,000 jobs; Shajapur-Maksi added ₹8,174 crore in green projects. GSDP reached ₹16.94 lakh crore at 13% growth, training 1 lakh youth; "one district, one product" boosts cottage industries. Challenges include skill gaps and bureaucracy, addressed via accountability drives.

Agriculture advanced via October conference on organic farming, Ken-Betwa irrigation, and dairy records; Foundation Day unveiled ₹2 lakh crore for colleges, wildlife, and connectivity. Ramcharitmanas curricula foster values.

Hurdles persist: ₹72,177 crore loan strains from grain procurement, modernisation calls from Uma Bharti, and political debates. Monthly reviews ensure course-correction.

Under "Industry and Employment," Yadav's tenure builds incrementally on ground realities, blending tradition and ambition for a resilient Madhya Pradesh.

Dr. Mohan Yadav has wielded Madhya Pradesh's bureaucracy with calculated efficiency, leveraging digital tools and rigorous oversight to curb delays and corruption. His zero-tolerance policy – voiced in December 2024 and enforced through 2025 – shines in swift actions: recommending dismissal of IAS officer Santosh Verma for forging court orders, inflammatory remarks like "kill one, a hundred will rise," and anti-judiciary comments, following Yadav's direct review.

Other crackdowns include probes into June 2025 police recruitment fraud and October penalties for negligent officials on citizen complaints. Monthly reviews and anti-delay mandates resolve grievances promptly, though opposition critiques of grip erosion in July 2025 underscore the challenges. Backed by law-and-order enforcements and cyber drives, Yadav transforms bureaucratic hurdles into streamlined governance.

Dr Kripan Ghosh and three others have been promoted from the grade of Scientist 'F' to the grade of Scientist 'G' under the Revised Flexible Complementing Scheme (RFCS).

Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), has secured additional orders worth Rs. 776 Cr. since the last disclosure on 14th Nov 2025. Major orders received include indigenous Counter Unmanned Aerial System (SAKSHAM), Software Defined Radios, Anti Drone Systems, communication equipment, medical electronics, gun control systems, weapon control systems, security software, avionics, masts, components, upgrades, spares, services etc.

NLC India Renewables Limited (NIRL), a wholly owned subsidiary of NLC India Limited (NLCIL), signed a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) on December 12, 2025, with PTC India Limited (formerly Power Trading Corporation) at Neyveli. The signing took place in the august presence of Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, Chairman and Managing Director, NLC India Limited, Dr. Manoj Kumar Jhawar, Chairman and Managing Director, PTC India Limited and the Functional Directors of NLC India Limited. This is in continuation to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between NIRL and PTC India Ltd., on 8th September 2025. PTC India Ltd. Is a leading provider of power trading solutions in India based in New Delhi. The JVC between PTC India Limited and NLCIL, which is rapidly expanding its portfolio in Renewable Energy, will undertake the establishment, operation, and maintenance of renewable energy projects—including solar, wind, hydro, battery energy storage systems, green ammonia, and other emerging green technologies. The collaboration envisages the development of green energy capacity upto 2000 MW, to be implemented in phases. The first phase will target around 500 MW. The new JVC will enable both organisations to pool their strengths in project development, power trading, renewable energy park creation, and integrated green energy solutions. The JVC will undertake power sales through competitive and regulated routes under Section 62 or Section 63 of the Electricity Act, targeting a mix of DISCOMs, government entities, and commercial & industrial consumers.

Prem Singh Meena, ED, RITES, has been selected for the post of Director (Projects), RITES Limited at a Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) meeting held on December 12, 2025. As many as 12 persons were interviewed for the same.

Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai, Judge of the Sikkim High Court, has been appointed to perform the duties of the office of the Chief Justice of that High Court consequent upon the retirement of incumbent Justice Biswanath Somadder on December 14, 2025.

Justice Arvind Kumar Verma, Additional Judge of the Chhattisgarh High Court, has been appointed as Judge of that High Court.

Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai, Judge of the Sikkim High Court, has been appointed to perform the duties of the office of the Chief Justice of that High Court consequent upon the retirement of incumbent Justice Biswanath Somadder on December 14, 2025.

Justice Arvind Kumar Verma, Additional Judge of the Chhattisgarh High Court, has been appointed as Judge of that High Court.

· Signoria Creation acquiring 60% of Herble Prints for ₹3.05 crore. 

· Trejhara Solutions approved US$9.5M + earn-out acquisition of LP Logistics (USA logistics tie-up) and ₹28 crore JV with GS. 

· Hindalco (Aditya Birla Group MNC) completed 100% acquisition of EMIL Mines & Mineral Resources. 

Vishwas Patel has been appointed as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Infibeam Avenues Limited.

DR Neharika Vohra has been appointed as Independent Director of Infibeam Avenues Limited.

 

Jay Bharatbhai Pansuria has been appointed as Additional Director (Non-Executive Independent) of Shining Tools Limited

Shaileshbhai Durlabhjibhai Sagpariya has been appointed as Additional Director (Non-Executive Independent) of Shining Tools Limited.

 

Ms Ritu Lal has been appointed as Additional Director (Non-Executive Independent Woman Director) of Saatvik Green Energy Limited

Ms. Vaishali Kalpesh Shah has been appointed as Additional Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer of Market Creators Limited.

Deepak Sangat has been appointed as Additional Director of Naturo Indiabull Limited.

Sudhir Garg has been appointed as Independent Non-Executive Director of KRBL Limited.

Harshal Bhimashankar Dubli has been appointed as Additional Executive Director of One Global Service Provider Limited.

Sandeep Kumar Hisaria has been appointed as Whole-Time Director of XL Energy Limited.

Vinod Kumar Kathuria has been appointed as Independent Director of XL Energy Limited.

Harichand Mittal has been appointed as Independent Director of XL Energy Limited.

Suryakant Kadakane Maruti has been appointed as Independent Director of XL Energy Limited.

Ms Karishma Jain has been re-designated as Executive Director of XL Energy Limited.

Ms Samhitha Kandalkunta has been appointed as Independent Director of Deccan Health Care Limited.

Ms Karishma Patel has been appointed as Independent Director of Deccan Health Care Limited.

Sandeep Mittal has been appointed as Additional Whole-Time Director (Promoter Executive) of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Rajat Goyal has been appointed as Additional Non-Executive Director (Promoter) of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Jai Kishan has been appointed as Additional Independent Director of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Ms Preeti Jain has been appointed as Additional Independent Director of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Chaman Lal Jain has resigned from the position of Managing Director and Chairman of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Hari Bansal has resigned from the position of Non-Executive Director of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Achal Kapoor has resigned from the position of Non-Executive Independent Director of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Ms Apra Sharma has resigned from the position of Non-Executive Independent Director of Addi Industries Limited.

 

Subrata Panda has resigned from the position of Non-Executive Independent Director of Addi Industries Limited.

Need for more Airlines in India

The recent chaos created by Indigo requires the Government to take urgent action to end the duopoly of Air India and indigo.

The government should actively lend hands in the form of loans etc. to Spicejet and Akasa airlines. They should be able to buy/take on lease aircrafts to increase  their operations. This will give some competition to these two airlines.

It also should consider banning flights on routes less than 600 km.

Thanks 

S. Gopal

Is it mandatory to have SEBI registered license for teaching about stock market?

The Appellant filed an application seeking information whether it is mandatory to have SEBI Registered License with person or company who teaching about stock market and whether SEBI takes Complaint against stock market educator person or company who is Non Registered with SEBI. The PIO replied that it cannot be construed as "information", as defined u/s 2(f) of the RTI Act as it is in the nature of seeking clarification. The CIC observed that outstretching the interpretation of Section 2(f) of the RTI Act to include deductions and inferences to be drawn by the CPIO is unwarranted and upheld that reply provided by the PIO.

Comments

Under Section 6 of the RTI Act, an applicant is entitled to get only such information which can be accessed by the public authority under any other law for the time being in force. A public authority is not required to furnish information which require drawing of inferences and/or making of assumptions. It is also not required to provide `advice' or `opinion' to an applicant, nor required to obtain and furnish any `opinion' or `advice' to an applicant. The reference to `opinion' or `advice' in the definition of `information' in section 2(f) of the Act, only refers to such material available in the records of the public authority. Further, many public authorities provide advice, guidance and opinion to the citizens as a public relation exercise. But the same is purely voluntary and should not be confused with any obligation under the RTI Act.

Citation: Akshay Vasani v. Securities And Exchange Board of India, Second Appeal No. CIC/SEBIH/A/2024/644498; Date of Decision: 31.10.2025

Dr Anuradha Verma (dranuradhaverma@yahoo.co.in) is a RTI Consultant currently working with IIM Vishakhapatnam. She has co-authored the books PIO’s Guide to RTI and Right to Information – Law and Practice. Her weekly article is being published since 2008 on this site. She offers consultancy on RTI matters and third party audit to individuals / organisations. Her other articles can be read at the website of RTI Foundation at the link https://www.rtifoundationofindia.com