Mass flouting of Covid-19 norms, especially in the form of public rallies in states holding elections, has become a major cause for the surge in infections, according to experts. And West Bengal, which is witnessing a high-decibel campaign in an eight-phase election, bears testimony to the fact, with cases skyrocketing and every Covid-related figure painting a disappointing picture for the state.
The chief electoral officer (CEO) of Bengal, Aariz Aftab, called an all party meeting on April 16 after a Calcutta High Court order to the CEO and all district magistrates to ensure strict implementation of Covid-19 protocol during a campaign for the remaining four phases. All political parties have been asked to send one representative for discussion over following Covid-related protocol for the last four phases of the poll.
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Speaking to India Today Global, EU Vice President and High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas stressed the need to “build partnerships with those countries who believe in free trade,” underscoring the strategic message behind the newly concluded India–EU Free Trade Agreement.
This news report focuses on the massive winter storm currently sweeping across much of the United States of America. The severe weather conditions have led to significant disruptions in power supplies and air travel, prompting several states to declare emergencies. According to the report, 'Washington, D.C. was blanketed with over 20 centimeters of snow in nearly 20 hours of snowfall' as the region grapples with the intense winter system. The capital is expected to remain snowbound for an extended period as temperatures are projected to plunge to minus 10 degrees Celsius. The visuals highlight the scale of the snowfall and the resulting impact on infrastructure and daily life across the country. The bulletin emphasizes the severity of the plummeting temperatures and the ongoing challenges faced by residents in the affected regions as the storm continues to impact the United States.
In this special report on Newstrack, Marya Shakil moderates a fiery debate over the University Grants Commission’s proposed 2026 equity regulations. The guidelines, intended to address and reduce discrimination on campuses, have triggered protests in several parts of the country.
This edition of The News Today with Rajdeep Sardesai focuses on the landmark free trade agreement between India and the European Union. Finalised after nearly two decades of negotiations, the pact seeks to open up a combined market of two billion people by cutting import duties on key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and textiles.
