In a major setback to the Indian-origin Hindu diaspora in the United States, the California State Legislature has passed the dangerous SB 509 Bill.
The proposed law, which can label opposition to the violent Khalistani separatist movement as ‘digital, transitional repression,’ was passed by both the Senate and the Assembly of the California State Legislature.
The development was confirmed in a tweet by the US-based Hindu American Foundation (HAF) on Friday (12th September).
BREAKING | Both houses of California’s state legislature just passed the highly controversial, heavily amended SB509, that would target India and Indian Americans in mandated training about “transnational repression.”
HAF pointed out, “Proponents of this bill and previous failed versions sought to silence advocacy against the separatist Khalistan movement, deeply tied to transnational terror attacks.”
The Hindu rights organisation, however, informed that it was successful in adding critical amendments to the SB 509 Bill, but it remains problematic in its current form.
HAF has appealed to California Governor Gavin Newsom to veto the controversial Bill, which is designed to encourage homegrown Khalistan extremism and target Indian origin Hindu Americans.
The disturbing nature of the amended SB 509 Bill
The controversial legislation is prone to misuse against the Indian-origin Hindu diaspora in the United States.
SB 509 Bill has the potential to label anyone (using digital technology to track the activities of terrorists or those involved in separatist movements) as ‘radicalised by state-sponsored propaganda or ideology’.
The proposed law defines transnational repression as “any action taken by a foreign government or an agent of a foreign government involving the transgression of national borders through physical, digital, or analog means in order to intimidate, silence, coerce, harass, or harm members of diaspora and exile communities or organizations that advocate for individuals in diaspora or exile communities in order to prevent the exercise of their human rights.“
It could thus be weaponised against Indian-origin, Hindu Americans for voicing their opposition to Khalistani extremism and seperatist activities.
The ‘SB 509 Bill’ further claims that transnational repression is a ‘human rights violation’ which is somehow aimed at curbing dissent and preventing individuals from exercising their ‘rights and freedoms.’
The proposed law further states that the California government, by virtue of its State policy, is supposed to
Protect persons and organizations in the state from transnational repression.
Pursue criminal prosecutions, as appropriate, against those who engage in transnational repression.
Provide support services for victims and communities in the state that may credibly be targeted in transnational repression.
Meaningfully hold accountable foreign governments engaged in transnational repression and limit their ability to influence state policy or public opinion.
Coordinate actions to enhance and complement any federal laws or regulations related to transnational repression.
‘SB 509 Bill’ directs the Office of Emergency Services to develop a ‘transnational repression recognition and response training’ to provide so-called ‘unbiased information on transnational repression’ to law enforcement authorities.
The deadline has been set to 1st January 2027.
The training will involve identification of different tactics of transnational repression in physical and nonphysical forms, governments known to ’employ transnational repression’, best practices for appropriate local and state law enforcement prevention, gathering information about ‘communities targeted by transnational repression’ and misinformation.
Given that the Indian government has been a vocal opponent of Khalistani activities abroad, aimed at secession of Indian State of Punjab from the Union, it could be labelled as a foreign government (under the proposed California State law) employing ‘transanational repression.’
This is further evident from the fact that Khalistanis may as well be roped in as ‘community experts’.
“Culturally competent outreach to diverse impacted diaspora communities and subject matter experts in order to support effective and unbiased law enforcement responses to transnational repression,” the amended version of the Bill stated.
The Khalistani Sikhs involved in plotting anti-India activities from American soil might as well be labelled as ‘community targeted by transnational repression.’ This is what makes the ‘SB 509 Bill’ dangerous.
While the amended version claims that rights under the First Amendment (aka free speech) will not be prohibited, the lack of adequate guardrails and safeguards gives little to no hope.
A Ganesh idol immersion procession in Hassan district of Karnataka turned into a scene of tragedy on the night of Friday, 12th September, when a truck rammed into the crowd. At least nine people lost their lives, while 22 others were injured in the horrific accident, officials confirmed.
According to Hassan Deputy Commissioner KS Latha Kumari, the truck driver made a futile bid to avoid hitting a two-wheeler and lost control of the vehicle. The truck then ran over the median and ploughed into a crowd on the other lane of the road.
Driver booked under the several sections of BNS
The Goruru Police booked a case under the Sections of 281, 106 and 125 of the BNS, against Bhuvanesh, who was driving the truck. The driver, Bhuvanesh, a resident of Kattebelaguli village in Holenarasipura taluk of Hassan district.
The video clip captured at the accident spot shows that the the truck hits a two-wheeler and then crosses over the divider to ram into the crowd dancing in the Ganesha procession.
The driver also suffered injuries in the incident and after being beaten by an angry mob at the scene. The police booked the case based on the statement by Manjunath of Danayakanahalli, who lost his nephew Eshwar in the incident.
Details of the injured
The injured were immediately rushed to the Hassan Institute of Medical Sciences (HIMS) hospital and a nearby private hospital. Out of the 22 injured, 19 were admitted to HIMS. Among them, 18 of them are stable and being treated in the general ward, while one underwent surgery for a rib fracture. Two others, who were shifted to a private hospital, are in the ICU but are reportedly stable.
According to the media reports, A team of doctors, led by the district health officer, is closely monitoring the patients. Hassan district in-charge Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, who visited the hospital, said the state government is ensuring the best possible treatment for the injured.
Deceased are mostly young students
The incident has left families shattered, with tragic scenes being seen at the hospital and even at the victims’ homes. Among the deceased, most of them were hardly 25 years old. They included Praveen Kumar (21), Mithun (23), Rajesh (17), Kumar (25), another Praveen (25), Eshwar (17), Gokul (17), and Suresh (22). Another victim was Prabhakar (52).
Most of the victims and injured were said to be students of the Government Engineering College in Mosale Hosahalli. Locals said that some students had gone out for dinner from the college hostel and had joined the Ganesh procession when the accident took place.
How the accident occurred
Eyewitness accounts stated that the procession, which consisted of a large number of youths, was going smoothly when the truck suddenly lost control and crashed into the divider before striking the crowd. According to some reports, the truck was overloaded, although the actual cause is yet to be investigated.
The abrupt crash brought fear as individuals fled for their lives. Locals and police immediately transported the ones struck to the hospital.
Government’s response and the ex-gratia announced
Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned the loss of lives and declared an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh from the PM National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the family members of every deceased, and ₹50,000 for the injured.
The mishap in Hassan, Karnataka, is heart-rending. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those who have been injured recover at the earliest.
An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured…
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also mourned the loss of lives and referred to it as a very painful tragedy. He stated that ₹5 lakh will be provided as compensation to the families of the victims. He further said that the state government will cover all medical costs for the injured in the accident.
ಹಾಸನದಲ್ಲಿ ಗಣೇಶ ವಿಸರ್ಜನೆಗಾಗಿ ಮೆರವಣಿಗೆಯಲ್ಲಿ ತೆರಳುತ್ತಿದ್ದವರ ಮೇಲೆ ಲಾರಿ ಹರಿದು ಹಲವರು ಸಾವಿಗೀಡಾಗಿ, ಸುಮಾರು 20ಕ್ಕೂ ಹೆಚ್ಚು ಮಂದಿ ಗಂಭೀರ ಗಾಯಗೊಂಡ ಸುದ್ದಿ ತಿಳಿದು ಅತೀವ ದುಃಖವಾಯಿತು. ಮೃತರ ಆತ್ಮಕ್ಕೆ ಶಾಂತಿ ಸಿಗಲಿ, ಗಾಯಾಳುಗಳು ಆದಷ್ಟು ಶೀಘ್ರ ಗುಣಮುಖರಾಗಲಿ ಎಂದು ಪ್ರಾರ್ಥಿಸುತ್ತೇನೆ.
“It is deeply saddening to learn news of several people losing their lives and over 20 others seriously injured when a lorry collided with a procession heading for Ganesh immersion in Hassan. I pray that the souls of the deceased find peace and that the injured recover as quickly as possible.” Siddaramaiah said.
Reactions from leaders
Former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy also reacted strongly to the accident, calling it a “most unfortunate” incident. He expressed shock and prayed for the departed souls while urging the government to ensure free treatment for the injured.
I am deeply shocked to hear the news of a horrific accident during the Ganapati immersion procession at Mosalehosahalli in Hassan Taluk, where several people lost their lives and more than 20 were seriously injured. It is extremely saddening that devotees lost their lives after…
— ಹೆಚ್.ಡಿ.ಕುಮಾರಸ್ವಾಮಿ | HD Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) September 12, 2025
Hassan MP Shreyas Patel also expressed his grief. “It is extremely saddening that devotees lost their lives after being run over by a truck during the Ganapati procession. May God grant peace to the departed and strength to their families. The state must take steps to provide the best treatment to the injured,” he said.
PM Modi on Saturday assured the people of Manipur that peace and development will go hand in hand, declaring that the violence-hit state was standing at the threshold of “a new dawn of hope and trust.” This was his first visit to the state since the outbreak of ethnic clashes in May 2023, when fighting between the Meitei and Kuki communities plunged the region into one of its worst crises in recent decades.
Addressing a gathering in Churachandpur, one of the districts worst affected by the conflict, Modi said, “The land of Manipur is a land of aspiration. Unfortunately, violence had cast a shadow here. A short while ago, I met those staying in relief camps, and after meeting them, I can say with conviction that change is coming. Hope is returning.”
The clashes, which left more than 250 dead and forced nearly 60,000 people to flee their homes, exposed the fragility of ethnic relations in the state. Internet services were suspended for months, while many displaced families remain unable to return because of ongoing tensions. Rights groups have long accused local leaders of exploiting these divisions for political ends, deepening mistrust between communities.
Against this backdrop, the Prime Minister emphasised that the central government was committed to restoring normalcy. “For development to take root anywhere, peace is essential. In the past 11 years, many conflicts in the Northeast have been resolved through dialogue. People here too must embrace peace, for it is only through peace that dreams can be fulfilled,” he said, urging civil society groups and organisations to step forward.
The speech carried a strong developmental pitch. Modi announced a slew of projects, including a new airport in Imphal, new highways, medical colleges, and most notably, the railway project connecting Jiribam with Imphal—a long-pending demand that promises to improve connectivity in the landlocked state.
“There was a time when decisions made in Delhi took decades to reach here. Today, our Churachandpur, our Manipur, is progressing step by step with the rest of the nation. India is soon to become the world’s third-largest economy, and Manipur will be part of that journey,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted welfare gains. Nearly 60,000 pucca houses have been built in Manipur under central housing schemes, while piped water supply—once limited to barely 25,000 households—now reaches more than 3.5 lakh homes.
Though largely symbolic, the visit was designed to send a message that reconciliation and development are inseparable. For Manipur, still scarred by last year’s violence, Modi’s words were an attempt to restore both confidence and a sense of belonging within India’s larger growth story.
Authorities arrested a 22-year-old suspect for the assassination of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk on Thursday (11th September) following a 33-hour manhunt. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, was arrested after he confessed to his father, who informed the authorities.
Tyler Robinson, a college dropout, has reportedly been accused of aggravated murder, obstruction of justice, and felony discharge of a firearm. Formal charges against him will be filed on Tuesday (16th September). Before Robinson’s arrest, the FBI had announced a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person responsible for Kirk’s killing. The authorities reportedly received over 7000 leads and tips after they announced the reward for the identification of Kirk’s shooter.
The suspect confessed to his father
31-year-old Charlie Kirk was shot dead on stage at Utah Valley University, Utah, while addressing students on Wednesday (10th September). Two people were taken into custody shortly after the incident, but were later released. Informing the media about the arrest of Robinson on Friday (12th September), Utah Governor Spencer Cox said that Robinson confessed to his father about killing Kirk and said that he would rather commit suicide than surrender. His father called a family friend, who is a pastor and also serves as a court security officer. The pastor then informed the US Marshals who arrested Robinson.
Governor Cox said that CCTV images showed the suspect arriving on the university campus on the day of the incident, around four hours before Kirk was shot. He added that when the suspect was taken into custody, he was wearing clothes similar to what he was seen wearing in CCTV footage at the scene of the shooting. The Governor further said that the investigators interviewed a family member of the suspect, who said that he became more political in recent years. The family member also revealed that Robinson mentioned that Kirk would be visiting the university and that he “was full of hate and spreading hate”.
The investigators also talked to the roommate of Robinson, as revealed by Governor Cox. The roommate showed the investigators some messages with an account named Tyler on the messaging app Discord. The messages referred to retrieving a rifle from a drop point, and the rifle being wrapped in a towel and left in a bush.
Possible Antifa links in Kirk’s murder
Notably, the FBI found an imported Mauser .30-06 bolt action rifle wrapped in a towel in a wooded area near the university campus on Thursday. The rifle has some engravings said to be linked to the Anti-fascist (Antifa) movement, including the words “hey fascist! CATCH!” and “O Bella ciao, Bella ciao”. ‘Bella Ciao’, in Italian, means “goodbye beautiful” and is also the title of an Italian resistance folk song, which has been adopted by the Antifa as its unofficial anthem. The song is frequently played at Antifa’s rallies, and the title often features on their signs and slogans. The investigators also found other messages on the bullet casings, including memes and video game jargon, which they are trying to decipher.
As per reports, Tyler Robinson is a third-year student in an electrical apprenticeship programme at Dixie Technical College in south-west Utah. His social media reportedly revealed that his father runs a kitchen countertop and cabinet installation business, and his mother is a social worker. He secured a four-year scholarship to Utah Valley University in Logan after scoring in the top percentile on his college entrance exam. However, he abruptly left the university after attending a semester after which he took a leave of absence and did not return.
A huge uproar broke out in Shahjahanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, on the evening of Friday, 12th September, with abuses hurled against Hindu Gods and Goddesses over a controversial social media post. According to the media reports, the post had comments on Prophet Mohammad and the Quran, following which a mob of Islamic fundamentalists surrounded the local police station, raising slogans of ‘Hand over the accused’ and ‘Allahu Akbar,’ plunging the area into tension.
Although the police acted swiftly and arrested the accused, the ruckus continued for three hours. Some anti-social elements took advantage of the crowd and tried to spoil the atmosphere further. With repeated attempts to calm the crowd failing, police were eventually forced to disperse the mob with a lathi charge.
The uproar started after the offensive comments on social media
On Friday, September 12, around 6:30 pm, a social media user posted a contentious remark on Prophet Muhammad and the Quran. The post sparked anger in the Muslim community, and in retaliation, some youths allegedly made derogatory comments against Hindu gods and goddesses.
Later, Qasim Raza, a member of the local Idgah Committee, alerted the police about the incident. Tension escalated as anger spread in the Muslim community, with anti-social elements further inflaming the situation. Outside the police station, chants of ‘Hand over the accused’ and ‘Allahu Akbar’ grew louder, as the mob turned more aggressive and even attempted to storm the station to seize the accused.
Muslim mob surrounded the police station
The police took immediate action and registered an FIR against the accused and arrested him. Despite this, the situation did not calm down, and the crowd surrounded the police station. To control the situation, the police first tried to explain and called the maulanas of the Muslim community to control the situation, but people did not listen.
थाना सदर बाजार क्षेत्रान्तर्गत एक व्यक्ति द्वारा सोशल मीडिया पर अभद्र टिप्पणी करने की घटना पर पुलिस द्वारा कृत कार्यवाही तथा जनपद वासियों से शांति व्यवस्था की अपील के सम्बन्ध में #SP_SHA की बाइट। @Uppolice@adgzonebareillypic.twitter.com/9PislHnax7
After this, the police had to resort to a lathi charge. Following the police action, a stampede ensued, and people began running in all directions. The situation calmed down after three hours.
Administration appeals for peace
After the incident, the district administration has appealed to maintain peace. DM Dharmendra Pratap Singh said that the administration has taken the issue seriously and has taken action against the accused. He has appealed to the people not to pay attention to rumours and said that some anti-social elements trying to spoil the atmosphere will be brought to justice.
At the same time, SP Rajesh Dwivedi also said that the police took immediate action and brought the situation under control. Also, he has appealed to the people to maintain peace.
Flag march conducted to control the situation
DM-SP conducted a flag march with police force of 7 police stations and QRT to control the situation. After this, the police tried to convince some people sitting on the road. The DM also clarified that no information on stone pelting has been received, and the police are keeping a close watch on the situation.
This incident caused tension in Shahjahanpur, but the situation was brought under control due to the promptness of the administration and police. The administration has appealed for peace and requested that people not pay attention to rumours.
Adani Power has signed a 25-year Power Supply Agreement (PSA) with Bihar State Power Generation Company Ltd. (BSPGCL) for supply of 2,400 MW. The power will be supplied from a 2,400 MW greenfield Ultra-supercritical thermal power plant to be set up in Pirpainti, Bhagalpur, Bihar.
The development comes after Adani Power received a Letter of Letter of Award (LoA) for 25 Years long term procurement of electricity from BSPGCL. BSPGCL awarded the LoA to APL on behalf of North Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd. (NBPDCL) and South Bihar Power Distribution Company Ltd. (SBPDCL), the two state utilities. Earlier in August, the company had received the Letter of Interest for the power purchase deal.
The power plant project, valued at approximately $3 billion, will supply 2,274 MW of power to North and South Bihar Power Distribution Companies. Adani Power won the contract through a competitive bidding process, offering the lowest tariff of Rs 6.075 per kWh.
The plant, to be developed under the Design, Build, Finance, Own, and Operate (DBFOO) model, will utilise advanced low-emission technology and coal linkage under the SHAKTI Policy. The coal linkage for the power plant has been allocated under the SHAKTI Policy of Government of India.
The first 800 MW unit is planned for commissioning within 48 months, with full operations within 60 months. Three units of 800 MW will be built under the project. The project is expected to create around 12,000 jobs during construction and 3,000 during operation, boosting local employment.
Nepal is gradually returning to normalcy following a tumultuous week of anti-corruption protests that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and the appointment of Sushila Karki as the country’s first female interim Prime Minister. The nationwide curfew, imposed during the height of the unrest, was lifted on Saturday morning, allowing public transportation, shops, and markets to resume operations. Fresh elections for the House of Representatives have been scheduled for March 5, 2026, marking a new chapter in Nepal’s political landscape.
A Historic Appointment
On Friday, September 12, 2025, former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was sworn in as interim Prime Minister at a ceremony held at the presidential residence, Sheetal Niwas, in Kathmandu. Administered by President Ram Chandra Paudel, the oath-taking marked a historic moment as Karki became Nepal’s first woman to hold the office of Prime Minister. Her appointment followed intense negotiations between President Paudel, Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel, and representatives of the youth-led “Gen Z” protest movement, which had toppled the Oli government.
Karki, widely respected for her judicial independence and zero-tolerance stance on corruption, emerged as a consensus candidate through a public vote organized by Gen Z leaders on the messaging platform Discord.
Curfew Lifted, Normalcy Restored
The lifting of the curfew on Saturday morning signalled a return to daily life across Kathmandu Valley and other parts of Nepal. Public transportation, including long-distance buses, resumed service, and shops, grocery stores, and vegetable markets reopened after days of closure. Traffic began flowing again on the streets of Kathmandu, with soldiers scaling back their presence following days of heavy deployment. However, some sensitive zones in the capital remain off-limits to prevent potential protests, according to Kathmandu’s Senior Superintendent of Police, Bishwo Adhikari.
The protests, which began as a response to a temporary ban on social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, escalated into a broader movement against corruption, nepotism, and economic inequality. The unrest, the worst since Nepal became a democratic republic in 2008, resulted in at least 51 deaths, including protesters, police, and others, and over 1,300 injuries. Government and private buildings, including the parliament, were set ablaze, and more than 12,500 prisoners escaped during the chaos.
Parliament Dissolved, Elections Set
After Karki’s swearing-in as interim PM, President Paudel dissolved the House of Representatives at her recommendation. The President’s Office announced that elections for a new House of Representatives are scheduled for March 5, 2026, giving the interim government six months to restore order and prepare for the polls. Karki convened her first cabinet meeting late Friday night to approve the dissolution, marking the start of a transitional government tasked with steering Nepal toward stability.
Karki is expected to formally assume office on Sunday, September 14, and announce the expansion of her cabinet on the same day, according to sources. Her government faces multiple challenges, including investigating the protest-related violence, rebuilding damaged infrastructure, and addressing the demands of the Gen Z movement for a corruption-free administration.
India, Nepal’s close neighbour and long-term partner, welcomed Karki’s appointment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated her, stating, “India remains firmly committed to the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Nepal.”
I extend my best wishes to Right Hon. Mrs. Sushila Karki on assuming office as the Prime Minister of the Interim Government of Nepal. India remains firmly committed to the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Nepal.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs expressed hope that the interim government would foster stability in the Himalayan nation.
“As a close neighbour, a fellow democracy and a long term development partner, India will continue to work closely with Nepal for the well-being and prosperity of our two peoples and countries,” the MEA said in a statement.
The Supreme Court on Friday (12th September) questioned why the ban on firecrackers should be limited to the Delhi NCR region and not be extended to the entire country.
A bench of Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran raised the question orally while hearing a petition filed by firecracker traders against the complete year-round ban on manufacture, sale and use of firecrackers in the Delhi NCR region. The judges observed that people across the country have an equal right to clean air, and that pollution-free air cannot be treated as a privilege available to the NCR region alone.
“If citizens in NCR are entitled to pollution-free air, then why not people of other cities? Just because this is the capital city, or the Supreme Court is situated in this area, it should not mean that only they get pollution-free air. I was in Amritsar last winter and the pollution was worse than in Delhi. Whatever policy has to be there, it has to be on a pan-India basis. We can’t have special treatment for Delhi because they’re elite citizens of the country. If firecrackers are to be banned, then let them be banned throughout the country,” the top court said.
Families of people engaged in making firecrackers will be adversely affected: Senior Advocate K Parameshwar
The Court’s remarks came after Senior Advocate K Parameshwar mentioned that the court in a previous order imposed a year-round ban on firecrackers. He added that a ban from October to February could be justified, but a year-round ban would impact the families of people engaged in the manufacture or sale of firecrackers. “Five lakh families are dependent on this trade. Some way has to be found. I understand that between October and February there are pollution concerns, but a complete ban on manufacturing, trading and selling has a severe impact,” Parameshwar submitted.
Weighing in on the issue, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati said that while the air pollution in Delhi-NCR becomes worse during winters, it cannot be treated as an elite-centric issue. “My lords, we literally choke; in winters, it becomes impossible,” she said. She added that the real sufferers of the air pollution are the poor people, who do not have air purifiers, and cannot even leave the city when the pollution is at its peak.
A pan-India policy is required: CJI
Responding to this, CJI Gavai said that air pollution is a countrywide problem. He recalled his personal experience of air pollution in Amritsar, Punjab and said that a pan-India policy was required. “Last winter I was in Amritsar, I was told that the air pollution in Punjab is worse than in Delhi….therefore whatever policy has to be there, the policy has to be on a Pan-India Basis- we cannot have a special treatment for Delhi because people of Delhi are elite citizens of this country,” the CJI said.
ASG Bhati apprised the court that the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) has been examining the issue of firecrackers with scientific consultation. Senior Advocate K Parameshwar said that the firecracker manufacturers have been cooperating with NEERI to develop acceptable formulations, but an absolute ban is leading to licenses being cancelled.”We have been taking our crackers to NEERI and asking them to certify what composition they want, what additives they want to bring down the pollution. Because of the complete ban they are starting to revoke all our licenses also. We have licenses up to 2028–2030. It’s a very tedious process to get those licenses,” he said.
“If firecrackers are to be banned, then let them be banned throughout the country,” the Supreme Court said and directed the ASG to seek a report from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and asked the authorities to maintain a status quo on the existing licences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated development works worth over Rs 9000 crore in Aizawl, Mizoram on 13th September. These projects will cater to multiple sectors including Railways, Roadways, Energy, Sports among others. The most important project to be inaugurated was the Bairabi-Sairang New Rail line that connects Mizoram capital with the national railway network.
While he visited Aizawl, he could not go to the venue due to adverse weather conditions. Therefore, he addressed the crowd via video conferencing from Lengpui Airport.
Projects inaugurated / foundation stones laid
In line with his commitment to world-class infrastructure and last mile connectivity, Prime Minister inaugurated the Bairabi-Sairang New Rail line, worth over ₹8,070 crore, connecting the capital of Mizoram to the Indian Railways network for the first time. The Rail line Project, built in a challenging hilly area, has 45 tunnels constructed under complex geological conditions. Additionally, it also includes 55 major bridges and 88 minor bridges.
The direct rail connectivity between Mizoram and the rest of the country will offer the people of the region safe, efficient, and cost-effective travel options. It will also ensure the timely and reliable supply of food grains, fertilizers, and other essential commodities, thereby enhancing overall logistical efficiency and regional accessibility.
The Prime Minister also flagged off three new express trains, Sairang (Aizawl)-Delhi (Anand Vihar Terminal) Rajdhani express, Sairang-Guwahati Express and Sairang-Kolkata Express on this occasion. Aizawl will now be directly connected with Delhi through a Rajdhani Express. The Sairang-Guwahati Express will facilitate movement between Mizoram and Assam. Sairang-Kolkata Express will directly connect Mizoram to Kolkata.
This enhanced connectivity will improve access to hospitals, universities, and markets, thereby strengthening educational, cultural, and economic ties across the region. It will also generate employment opportunities, and significantly boost tourism in the region.
In a major boost to road infrastructure, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of multiple road projects. It includes Aizawl Bypass Road, Thenzawl–Sialsuk Road and Khankawn–Rongura Road.
The 45 km Aizawl Bypass Road, worth over Rs 500 crore, under Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) scheme will aim to decongest Aizawl city, improve connectivity to Lunglei, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Lengpui Airport, and Sairang Railway Station among others. It will reduce the travel time from southern districts to Aizawl by around 1.5 hours significantly benefitting the people in the region. The Thenzawl–Sialsuk Road under North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme NESIDS (Roads), will benefit many horticulture farmers, dragon fruit growers, paddy cultivators, and ginger processors, while strengthening connectivity with the Aizawl–Thenzawl–Lunglei Highway. The Khankawn–Rongura Road under NESIDS (Roads) in Serchhip District will provide better access to markets and benefit various horticulture farmers and other people in the region, while supporting the planned Ginger Processing Plant.
Prime Minister Modi also laid the foundation stone of Chhimtuipui River Bridge on the Lawngtlai–Siaha Road. It will provide all-weather connectivity and reduce travel time by two hours. The bridge will also support cross-border commerce under the Kaladan Multimodal Transit framework.
He further laid the foundation stone of Khelo India Multipurpose Indoor Hall for Sports Development. The hall at Tuikual will provide modern sports facilities including a multipurpose indoor arena benefitting and nurturing Mizoram’s youth for national and international competitions.
Strengthening the energy infrastructure in the region, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone of 30 TMTPA (thousand metric tons per annum) LPG Bottling Plant at Mualkhang in Aizawl. It will aim at ensuring a steady and reliable supply of LPG in Mizoram and neighbouring states providing easier access to clean cooking fuel. It will also create local employment opportunities.
Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated Residential School at Kawrthah under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) scheme. The school in Mamit aspirational district will provide modern classrooms, hostels, and sports facilities including an artificial football turf. It will benefit over 10,000 children and youth, laying the foundation for long-term social and educational progress.
Furthering his vision of quality education for all, Prime Minister also inaugurated Eklavya Model Residential School at Tlangnuam. The school will improve enrollment, reduce dropout rates, and provide holistic education opportunities for tribal youth.
Prime Minister’s speech
In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi bowed to Supreme God Pathian, who watches over the beautiful land of the Blue Mountains. Expressing regret, he stated that he was present at Mizoram’s Lengpui Airport and was unable to join the people at Aizawl due to bad weather. Despite the circumstances, the Prime Minister remarked that he could feel the love and affection of the people even through this medium.
Highlighting that whether it was the freedom movement or nation-building, Shri Modi said the people of Mizoram have always come forward to contribute. He remarked that the ideals of figures such as Lalnu Ropuiliani and Pasaltha Khuangchera continue to inspire the nation. Shri Modi emphasized that sacrifice and service, courage and compassion, are values deeply embedded in Mizo society. “Today, Mizoram is playing an important role in India’s development journey”, stated the Prime Minister.
Describing the day as historic for the nation, particularly for the people of Mizoram, Shri Modi said, “from today, Aizawl will be on India’s railway map”. Recalling the past, the Prime Minister noted that he had the opportunity to lay the foundation stone for the Aizawl railway line a few years ago. He proudly dedicated the railway line to the people of the nation. Shri Modi underlined that despite many challenges, including difficult terrain, the Bairabi–Sairang rail line has now become a reality. He commended the skills of engineers and the spirit of workers, stating that their efforts made this achievement possible.
Affirming that the hearts of the people and the nation have always been directly connected, the Prime Minister announced that for the first time, Sairang in Mizoram will be directly connected with Delhi by the Rajdhani Express. He emphasized that this is not merely a railway connection, but a life-line of transformation and it will revolutionize the lives and livelihoods of the people of Mizoram.
PM Modi highlighted that farmers and businesses in Mizoram will now be able to reach more markets across the nation. He noted that people will gain access to more options for education and healthcare. The Prime Minister added that this development will also generate employment opportunities in tourism, transport, and hospitality sectors.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that for a long time, some political parties in the country practiced vote-bank politics. He remarked that their focus remained on places with more votes and seats. As a result, the entire North East, including states like Mizoram, suffered greatly due to this attitude. PM Modi emphasized that the current approach is very different and those who were earlier neglected are now at the forefront. He added that those who were once marginalised are now part of the mainstream. The Prime Minister noted that for the past 11 years, the government has been working consistently for the development of the North East. He affirmed that this region is becoming the growth engine of India.
Underscoring that over the years, many states of the North East have been placed on the rail map of India for the first time, the Prime Minister highlighted that the Government of India has worked diligently to strengthen all forms of connectivity—rural roads and highways, mobile and internet connections, electricity, tap water, and LPG connections. He also announced that Mizoram will also benefit from the UDAN scheme for air travel and informed that helicopter services will commence soon in the region. This, he remarked, will significantly improve access to remote areas of Mizoram.
“Mizoram has a major role in both the Act East Policy and the emerging North East Economic Corridor”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. He stated that with the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the Sairang–Hmawngbuchhuah rail line, Mizoram will be connected to the Bay of Bengal through South East Asia. He further emphasized that this connectivity will boost trade and tourism across North East India and South East Asia.
Underlining that Mizoram is blessed with talented youth, PM Modi emphasized that the government’s mission is to empower them. He informed that 11 Eklavya Residential Schools have already been established in Mizoram and work is underway to start 6 more schools. The Prime Minister highlighted that the North East is emerging as a major hub for start-ups. He expressed happiness that around 4,500 start-ups and 25 incubators are currently operating in the region. He remarked that young people of Mizoram are actively participating in this movement and creating new opportunities for themselves and others.
Emphasising that India is rapidly emerging as an important hub for global sports, the Prime Minister remarked that this growth is also giving rise to a sports economy in the country. He highlighted Mizoram’s rich tradition in sports, noting its contribution in producing many champions in football and other disciplines. He affirmed that the government’s sports policies are benefitting Mizoram as well. Under the Khelo India scheme, Modi stated that support is being provided for the creation of modern sports infrastructure. He informed that the government has recently introduced a National Sports Policy—Khelo India Khel Niti. He stressed that this initiative will open new doors of opportunity for the youth of Mizoram.
The Prime Minister expressed great happiness in playing the role of an ambassador of the beautiful culture of the North East, both within the country and abroad. He emphasized the importance of encouraging platforms that showcase the potential of the North East. Recalling his participation in the Ashta Lakshmi Festival held in Delhi a few months ago, PM Modi noted that the festival showcased the textiles, crafts, GI-tagged products, and tourism potential of the North East. At the Rising North East Summit, the Prime Minister said he encouraged investors to tap into the region’s vast potential and stated that the Summit is paving the way for massive investments and projects. Shri Modi further remarked that the Vocal for Local initiative greatly benefits the artisans and farmers of the North East, highlighting that Mizoram’s bamboo products, organic ginger, turmeric, and bananas are well-known.
Underlining that the government is consistently taking steps to boost Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business, the Prime Minister said, “the next-generation GST reforms have recently been introduced and it means lower taxes on many products, making life easier for families”. He recalled that before 2014, even daily essentials such as toothpaste, soap, and oil were taxed at 27%. Today, he noted, only 5% GST is applicable on these items. Shri Modi remarked that during the opposition rule, medicines, test kits, and insurance policies were heavily taxed.
He stated that this made healthcare expensive and insurance inaccessible for ordinary families. He emphasized that today, all these services and products have become affordable. The Prime Minister added that the new GST rates will also make medicines for serious diseases like cancer more inexpensive. He informed that after September 22nd, cement and construction materials will also become cheaper. PM Modi noted that many companies manufacturing scooters and cars have already reduced prices. He expressed confidence that the upcoming festive season will be even more vibrant across the nation.
The Prime Minister stated that as part of the reforms, GST on most hotels has been reduced to only 5%. He remarked that travelling to various places, staying in hotels, and eating out will now become more affordable. He emphasized that this will encourage more people to travel, explore, and enjoy different parts of the country. He noted that tourist hubs like the North East will particularly benefit from this change.
“India’s economy has recorded a growth of 7.8% in the first quarter of 2025–26. This means India is the fastest growing major economy in the world”, said PM Modi, stating that the country is also witnessing strong growth in Make In India and exports.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, he remarked that the nation saw how Indian soldiers taught a lesson to those who sponsor terror. He said the entire country was filled with pride for the armed forces. The Prime Minister emphasized that Made-In-India weapons played a significant role in protecting the nation during this operation. He added that the growth of India’s economy and manufacturing sector is crucial for national security.
The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of every citizen, every family, and every region. He stated that a developed India will be built through the empowerment of its people and expressed confidence that the people of Mizoram will play a vital role in this journey. He extended heartfelt congratulations and welcomed Aizawl to India’s railway map. He reiterated that although he could not visit Aizawl due to weather conditions, he is confident that they will meet very soon.
The Governor of Mizoram, General V K Singh, Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw were present among other dignitaries at the event.
After asking EU to impose 100% tariff on India, now the United States is pressuring its G7 partners to put tariffs on countries that continue buying oil from Russia, and India has become one of the main targets. US has already imposed 25% tariff on India for buying Russian oil, apart from 25% citing India’s high tariff, taking total tariff to 50%.
On Friday, 12th September, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer held a call with G7 finance ministers. They asked allied nations to work together and penalise countries that are still trading energy with Moscow. In a joint statement, they said only a “unified effort” to cut Russia’s earnings could push an end to the war in Ukraine. A spokesperson from the Treasury went even further, saying that “meaningful tariffs” should be placed on goods coming from India and China.
India has been one of the largest buyers of cheap Russian crude since 2022. While this has helped keep global oil markets steady, Washington has been unhappy with New Delhi’s stance. President Donald Trump has already doubled tariffs on Indian imports to 50%, which has frozen trade talks between the two countries.
Interestingly, China has avoided such penalties, with Trump saying he does not want to hurt ongoing negotiations with Beijing. This uneven approach has raised questions about Washington’s strategy.
Moreover, European countries continue to buy Russian gas. In fact, recently Donald Trump was angry at Ukraine for disrupting Russian gas supply to central Europe by bombing a pipeline. While European countries are attempting to reduce dependence on Russian energy sources, they continue to import substantial quantities of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia.
Despite Trump’s pressure to impose high tariff on India, EU is unlike to do that, as the bloc has accelerated talks with India for Free Trade Agreement. Both sides have said that the FTA will be finalised by the end of this year.
The G7 meeting, hosted by Canadian Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne, also discussed using frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s defence and looked at wider measures, including new sanctions. Meanwhile, Bessent will continue talks in Madrid with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng, where issues like TikTok’s U.S. divestment and money laundering risks will also be discussed.
Trump said his patience with Russian President Vladimir Putin was “running out.” He hinted that tougher actions on Russian banks and oil could come soon, but stressed that any move must be taken in coordination with European allies, in a separate interview on Friday, 12th September, with Fox News.
Trump expressed frustration in the interview about Putin’s failure to halt the war despite Trump’s peacemaking efforts. Trump said sanctions on banks and oil were an option to increase along with tariffs to increase pressure on Russia, but added that European countries also needed to participate.
“We’re going to have to come down very, very strong,” Trump said.
The Treasury spokesperson said that G7 partners also needed to increase pressure on Russia.
“President Trump’s Peace and Prosperity Administration is ready, and our G7 partners need to step up with us,” the spokesperson added.
