VOCAL FOR LOCAL

CAIT to launch campaign to boost consumption of Swadeshi products
Confederation of All India Traders will soon launch a campaign. This encourages traders to promote 'Swadeshi' products. The aim is to boost local consumption.

Next-Gen GST reforms will help states as demand and compliance rise: Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel anticipates short-term effects from GST reforms but foresees long-term benefits for farmers, MSMEs, and the middle class. He assures support for exporters facing US tariffs, emphasizing collaboration between government and the private sector.

Smart teachers more important than smart classrooms and blackboards: President Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu emphasizes the importance of smart teachers at the National Teachers Awards ceremony. She says smart teachers understand students' needs and make learning interesting. Murmu highlights that teachers should build students' character. She adds that the National Education Policy aims to make India a global knowledge superpower. Awardees are recognized for their contributions.

Bhupendra Patel meets industrialists, holds roadshow in Delhi to promote Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference
Gujarat is set to host Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences to showcase industrial potential and cultural heritage, aiming for inclusive growth. Inspired by Prime Minister Modi's vision, these conferences will accelerate regional industrial and economic development, creating sector-specific investment opportunities. The focus is on balanced regional development and contributing to India's $3.5 trillion economy goal by 2047.

GST Council slashes tax on personal-care items like shampoo, toothpaste, hair oil to 5%
The GST Council has agreed to reduce the tax rate on essential personal care items like hair oil, toothpaste, and shampoo from 18% to 5%, benefiting consumers and companies like Hindustan Unilever and Godrej Industries. This move, part of the broader GST 2.

BJP to launch three-month-long 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan' from September 25
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch a three-month-long 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat Sankalp Abhiyan' from September 25 to December 25, 2025, to promote Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Swadeshi and self-reliance amid US President Donald Trump's recent tariff escalation against India.
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Indian brands ride swadeshi wave amid tariff tensions
For now, “vocal for local” has become the slogan of the season. But as history shows, consumers ultimately decide at the checkout counter—not on the strength of patriotic hashtags, but on price, quality, and value.
Trump's Brahmin-baiter advisor Navarro is an oddball
Peter Navarro, Trump's trade advisor, continues his criticism of India, accusing it of funding Russia's war through discounted oil and alleging Brahmin profiteering. He previously labeled the conflict "Modi's war" and India a "Kremlin laundromat," advocating for tariffs despite China's larger Russian oil purchases.
PM Modi pitches for swadeshi goods this festive season
Narendra Modi urged citizens to prioritize Indian-made goods for the upcoming festivals. He emphasized using Swadeshi products for gifts, attire, and decorations. Modi reiterated the importance of 'Vocal for Local' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. He also addressed the integration of Hyderabad and expressed concern over natural disasters in hilly regions. The festive season, starting with Raksha Bandhan, will continue until Diwali.
Celebrate festivals with Swadeshi spirit: PM Modi pushes 'vocal for local' mantra for Atmanirbhar Bharat amid Trump tariff shakeup
Amidst global trade tensions spurred by Trump's tariffs, Prime Minister Modi advocated for Swadeshi products during the festive season in his Mann ki Baat address.
Ariana Grande announces Eternal Sunshine Tour: Step-by-step guide to get tickets across North America and London
Ariana Grande is returning to touring after six years. She will promote her album, Eternal Sunshine. The tour starts June 6, 2026, in Oakland. It includes 27 shows in North America and London. Presales begin September 9, 2025, for North America. UK presales start September 16, 2025. Fans can expect vibrant performances and new hits.
‘Gold Card’ for wealthy investors, wage test for H-1B: Trump administration’s new immigration push
H1B Visa News: The Trump administration is preparing a sweeping overhaul of US immigration rules, targeting both H-1B visas and green cards. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the shift from a lottery-based system to one focused on wages and merit. A new ‘Gold Card’ plan, offering permanent residency in exchange for a $5 million investment, is also under discussion. With Indian workers making up more than 70 percent of H-1B recipients, the proposed changes could have far-reaching effects for professionals and companies alike.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urges states to cooperate in implementing proposed GST reforms
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Centre's circulation of the next-generation GST reforms draft to states, seeking their cooperation for implementation before Diwali. The proposed reform aims to simplify the GST law, revise tax rates, and benefit the poor, middle class, and businesses. Modi anticipates a double bonus for citizens this Diwali with the GST reform.
How did Mammootty overcome loss of appetite and walking difficulties? Malayalam actor's recovery was not overnight, his friend shares
Malayalam cinema rejoices as King Mammootty recovers from an illness. Close friend VK Sreeraman shared details of Mammootty's gradual recovery and positive attitude. While cancer rumours were dispelled, Mammootty awaits medical clearance before resuming work on Mahesh Narayanan's MMMN, also starring Mohanlal.
US attorney will no longer bring felony charges against people for carrying rifles or shotguns in DC
In Washington DC, federal prosecutors will stop felony charges for rifle or shotgun possession. US Attorney Jeanine Pirro cites Justice Department guidance and Supreme Court rulings. Local authorities can still prosecute unregistered firearms. This policy shift aligns with President Trump's crime emergency declaration. The White House reports seizing 76 firearms this month.
Who is Trump’s trade guru giving gyan to India?
Peter Navarro, a key architect of Trump's trade policies, criticizes India's purchase of Russian oil, deeming it detrimental to isolating Russia's economy. He warns that India's actions could jeopardize its strategic partnership with the US, while also highlighting the US's double standards in punishing India while ignoring China's similar actions.
India-China bonhomie owes much to Trump’s push
India and China are cautiously recalibrating trade ties, with Beijing lifting export restrictions on key materials. This follows recent diplomatic talks and signals a pragmatic approach to cooperation amidst global uncertainty. While both nations are easing visa restrictions and discussing direct flights, significant challenges remain.
Govt to undertake 100-days agenda to fast-track India's journey towards developed nation, Commerce minister says
Piyush Goyal announced the government's 100-day transformation agenda at the Lokmat Global Economic Convention. This initiative aims to accelerate India's development, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for 2047. The focus is on unity, economic growth, and global integration. India is set to become a top consumer market and investment destination.
Wordle Hints August 18: Puzzle #1521 Keeps players guessing, answer revealed for today
With over 1,500 puzzles completed, The New York Times shows no sign of slowing down Wordle’s run. Analysts expect the puzzle to maintain its daily presence for years to come, supported by its integration into the NYT Games platform.
Amid US tariff heat, PM Modi bats for Aatmanirbharta
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of following the principles of Lord Krishna and Mahatma Gandhi to strengthen India and achieve self-reliance. He reiterated his government's commitment to economic reforms and good governance, while criticizing the Congress party for mistreating Dalits with outdated laws. Modi also highlighted infrastructure development and the simplification of life and business through good governance.
'Daam kam, lakin dum zyada', PM Modi's mantra to manufacturers
On India’s 79th Independence Day, PM Modi urged industries to focus on high-quality, reasonably priced products under the mantra “lower prices, higher quality.” He highlighted the government’s National Manufacturing Mission and production-linked incentives to boost domestic manufacturing. Modi also promoted ‘Vocal for Local,’ calling on citizens, shopkeepers, influencers, and political parties to champion India-made goods and strengthen the economy.
Celebrating freedom with reforms: Modi promises advancements in defence, technology, manufacturing, and major development schemes
Narendra Modi government is gearing up for next GST reforms by October. On Independence day, Modi unveiled Rs 1 lakh crore jobs programme. PM also assured the nation that India will become the third-largest economy soon. PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana will facilitate creation of 35 million jobs. Government will constitute task force to look into next-generation economic reforms.
BrahMos missiles, drones made in Lucknow proved power of 'swadeshi' technology globally: Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while celebrating India's 79th Independence Day, lauded the success of Operation Sindoor, highlighting the role of BrahMos missiles and domestically produced drones. He emphasized the importance of 'swadeshi' technology and Uttar Pradesh's economic growth, noting increased GSDP and job creation.
Independence Day 2025: PM Modi's full speech
Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation on the 79th Independence Day, highlighting India's progress towards self-reliance and development. He emphasized achievements in sectors like defense, technology, and energy, while also addressing challenges such as terrorism and demographic changes.
Why did Jessica Radcliffe lose her life? Viral orca attack video explained
Why did Jessica Radcliffe lose her life? A viral video claims a 23-year-old marine trainer died after an orca attack during a live show. Fact-checks reveal no credible evidence of the incident or the person’s existence.
Stray dogs issue needs to be resolved, not contested: Delhi Govt to SC
The Delhi government told the Supreme Court that stray dogs in Delhi-NCR need a solution. Children are dying from rabies due to dog bites. The court asked Delhi-NCR to relocate stray dogs to shelters, starting with a 5,000-dog shelter. The court reserved its order on staying some directions. Authorities are blamed for inaction.
Jessica Radcliffe Orca Attack Video: Is it a new kind of spamming? Here’s why
Jessica Radcliffe Orca Attack Video is fake. Viral videos claim marine trainer Jessica Radcliffe was attacked by an orca during a live show. Fact-checks reveal the footage is AI-generated, the person does not exist, and the marine park is fictional. Social media posts promoting these clips include suspicious links and come from unverified accounts.
Jessica Radcliffe Orca attack multiple videos surface on social media. Here’s which one is real
Jessica Radcliffe orca attack multiple videos surface on social media. See which one is real. Multiple videos claim marine trainer Jessica Radcliffe was killed by an orca during a live show. The viral clips, shared widely on TikTok, Facebook, and X, are misleading. Fact-checks confirm there is no evidence the person exists or that such an attack occurred. All videos are fake.
Rs 75 crore safari park, tourist facilities to be developed in Barda sanctuary area: Gujarat CM
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stated that lions have today emerged as a global symbol of India's pride, stated that at the World Lion Day celebrations held on Sunday at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in the Devbhumi Dwarka district.
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