September
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The day's editorial focus initially centered on Prime Minister Modi's ongoing SCO summit participation in China. Early reports detailed his bilateral meeting with Russian President Putin, marked by warm interactions and discussions to deepen ties. Modi urged an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Concurrently, the SCO declaration strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, widely seen as a diplomatic win for India, with member nations expressing solidarity against terror.
As the day progressed, media attention shifted to strong reactions from US President Donald Trump. His advisor's comments on Indian Brahmins profiting from Russian oil stirred controversy. Later, Trump directly criticized US-India trade as a "one-sided disaster," claiming India offered to cut tariffs to zero but it was "too late," connecting these remarks to Modi's recent geopolitical engagements. Separately, a devastating earthquake in Afghanistan, causing over 800 fatalities, also remained a significant international story.
As the day progressed, media attention shifted to strong reactions from US President Donald Trump. His advisor's comments on Indian Brahmins profiting from Russian oil stirred controversy. Later, Trump directly criticized US-India trade as a "one-sided disaster," claiming India offered to cut tariffs to zero but it was "too late," connecting these remarks to Modi's recent geopolitical engagements. Separately, a devastating earthquake in Afghanistan, causing over 800 fatalities, also remained a significant international story.
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Indian media prominently covered the escalating US criticism regarding India's foreign policy and trade, particularly following PM Modi's SCO engagements. Throughout the day, US officials and former advisors continued to label India a "bad actor" for its ties with Russia, with President Trump doubling down on his critique of Indian tariffs and claiming a "one-sided" trade relationship. This came amidst reports of Russia increasing oil discounts for India and China-Russia signing a multi-trillion dollar deal that Trump reportedly couldn't prevent. Union Minister Goyal acknowledged "geopolitical issues" might delay an India-US trade deal. Domestically, the Maratha quota agitation reached a resolution. After initial defiance from activist Manoj Jarange and police action to clear Azad Maidan, the Maharashtra government ultimately agreed to key demands, including 'Kunbi' caste status. Jarange declared victory and ended his hunger strike in the early afternoon, with the government issuing a resolution. Separately, the Delhi High Court denied bail to Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and seven others in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots case, with the court emphasizing Khalid's "grave role".
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The day saw significant domestic economic policy changes and continued international geopolitical discussions. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council approved a new two-slab structure (5% and 18%), effective September 22, aiming to benefit the common man by eliminating 12% and 28% slabs, exempting health and life insurance, and setting a 40% rate for luxury goods. This decision dominated late-day economic headlines.
Internationally, US-India relations remained a central topic. US President Donald Trump reiterated his criticism of India's tariffs, while also mentioning a "no duty" offer from New Delhi. This occurred amidst a Chinese military parade attended by Putin and Kim Jong Un, which Trump labeled a "conspiracy against the US," though Russia dismissed the claim. India affirmed its intent to acquire more S-400 defense systems from Russia despite US threats, and a US lawmaker criticized Trump's ego for damaging strategic ties. Separately, the Supreme Court discussed Governors' role in delaying bills.
Internationally, US-India relations remained a central topic. US President Donald Trump reiterated his criticism of India's tariffs, while also mentioning a "no duty" offer from New Delhi. This occurred amidst a Chinese military parade attended by Putin and Kim Jong Un, which Trump labeled a "conspiracy against the US," though Russia dismissed the claim. India affirmed its intent to acquire more S-400 defense systems from Russia despite US threats, and a US lawmaker criticized Trump's ego for damaging strategic ties. Separately, the Supreme Court discussed Governors' role in delaying bills.
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Indian newspapers predominantly detailed the Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms. Early reports outlined the approved two-slab structure (5% and 18%), effective September 22, with health/life insurance exemptions. A 40% levy on 'sin goods' was later reported, and ministers urged industries to pass benefits to consumers. The "inside story" of the GST Council meeting highlighted initial resistance from opposition states before a late-night breakthrough, praised by PM Modi who criticized previous Congress policies.
Concurrently, US-India relations remained a focus. President Trump initially warned India over Russian oil, and Russia's Putin criticized US 'colonial era' tariff rhetoric. The Trump administration escalated the tariff issue to the US Supreme Court, linking tariffs on India to Ukraine peace, while the EU Chief also emphasized India's role in the conflict.
Domestically, Delhi's severe flood crisis continued, with the Yamuna reaching the Secretariat. Meanwhile, a peace agreement in Manipur saw Kuki-Zo groups agree to reopen National Highway-2.
Concurrently, US-India relations remained a focus. President Trump initially warned India over Russian oil, and Russia's Putin criticized US 'colonial era' tariff rhetoric. The Trump administration escalated the tariff issue to the US Supreme Court, linking tariffs on India to Ukraine peace, while the EU Chief also emphasized India's role in the conflict.
Domestically, Delhi's severe flood crisis continued, with the Yamuna reaching the Secretariat. Meanwhile, a peace agreement in Manipur saw Kuki-Zo groups agree to reopen National Highway-2.
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Indian media focused on escalating US-India tensions, beginning with former US NSA John Bolton's assertion that the Trump-Modi friendship was "gone" due to tariff policies. India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms were planned and not a response to US tariffs, while India pursued new trade partners. Later in the day, President Trump claimed the US had "lost" India and Russia to China, a statement India countered, particularly Peter Navarro's "misleading" remarks on tariffs and Brahmins. The narrative culminated with a Trump aide issuing an ultimatum, predicting India would apologize and comply with US demands regarding Russian oil and BRICS within two months. Domestically, severe flooding persisted across North India, notably Delhi-NCR. Separately, Mumbai faced a new terror threat, and Punjab's Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was hospitalized.
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The narrative around US-India relations saw a significant shift, dominating Indian media. Donald Trump reportedly backtracked from his "lost India to China" remark early in the day, emphasizing friendship with Prime Minister Modi and dismissing concerns about bilateral ties. This development coincided with reports of PM Modi deciding to skip the UN General Assembly session, with his Foreign Minister attending instead, amidst ongoing tariff disputes. As the day progressed, Modi responded positively to Trump's shift, expressing deep appreciation and reciprocation for the sentiments of friendship and a willingness to "reset" ties. Further reinforcing a potential thaw, Trump later signed an order offering tariff exemptions to countries with US trade deals. Domestically, the Manipur conflict continued, with Meitei groups criticizing a peace agreement, and a fatal ropeway accident occurred in Gujarat.
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The day's editorial focus initially centered on evolving US-India relations, with Peter Navarro's persistent criticism of India's Russian oil purchases being fact-checked by X, prompting his outburst. This unfolded amidst earlier reports of President Trump expressing friendship with Prime Minister Modi, but also plans for Trump to meet Xi Jinping, leading to discussions about a potential double standard. Domestically, severe monsoon floods continued in North India, with Prime Minister Modi set to visit Punjab, while significant GST reforms were highlighted. In the afternoon, attention shifted to India's victory in the Asia Cup Hockey tournament, where they defeated South Korea 4-1. This was followed by widespread, prominent coverage of the year's final lunar eclipse, including the visible 'Blood Moon,' which dominated headlines through the evening as it was observed across the country.
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Indian media prominently featured the escalating Gen Z protests in Nepal throughout September 8. Beginning in the early morning with reports of youth protesting social media bans and corruption, the situation rapidly intensified. Headlines detailed violent clashes, police firing, and the breach of Nepal's parliament. Casualty figures were continuously updated, tragically climbing from one death in the morning to an reported 18-21 deaths and numerous injuries by late afternoon. The Nepali army was deployed, and curfews were imposed in Kathmandu, with "shoot-at-site" orders reported. The day concluded with the Nepali government lifting its social media ban, although Prime Minister Oli initially resisted, attributing the unrest to political corruption and the lavish lifestyles of leaders' children. Concurrently, India's pursuit of a Free Trade Agreement with the EU progressed, seen by some as a strategic response to ongoing US tariff pressures.
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Indian media coverage on September 9 primarily focused on two major developments. Domestically, the Vice Presidential elections concluded with NDA candidate C.P. Radhakrishnan winning, securing 452 votes against B. Sudershan Reddy. This outcome followed polling throughout the morning, with Prime Minister Modi casting the first vote. Concurrently, the rapidly escalating Gen Z protests in Nepal dominated headlines. Building on the previous day's reports of unrest and the lifting of a social media ban, the situation dramatically intensified. Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned amidst widespread violence, arson at key political residences, and initial, though later clarified, reports of President Ram Chandra Poudel also stepping down. The day culminated with the Nepal Army Chief announcing the military would assume power by night, a significant shift in the nation's political landscape. Prime Minister Modi expressed deep concern, emphasizing Nepal's stability for India.
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Indian media continued its intensive focus on Nepal's deepening crisis. The morning saw reports of the Army strengthening control and Gen Z protests evolving into demands for constitutional reform and investigations into corruption. By mid-morning, prison riots led to over a thousand inmates escaping, while Kathmandu's airport, initially closed, resumed operations. China issued its first statement on the "coup," notably silent on former PM Oli. In the afternoon, the situation escalated with a mass prison break of 13,500 inmates and the death toll reaching 30. Oli blamed India for his ouster, a claim juxtaposed with India's Supreme Court asserting its constitution's strength. Discussions centered on former Chief Justice Sushila Karki as a leading candidate for interim prime minister, with Kathmandu Mayor Balen Shah's endorsement. Concurrently, India asserted diplomatic agency, condemning Israeli strikes in Qatar and engaging in sharp exchanges at the UNHRC.
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Indian media continued its heavy focus on Nepal's political crisis, transitioning from the previous day's reports of interim government formation to internal divisions within the Gen Z movement. Morning reports highlighted the ongoing discussions for an interim Prime Minister, with former Chief Justice Sushila Karki and former electricity board chief Kulman Ghising emerging as leading candidates. By early afternoon, factionalism within Gen Z became prominent, with some groups protesting against Karki's perceived "India-supporter" stance and instead backing Balen Shah. This indicates a complex and evolving debate over leadership, external influence, and the future direction of Nepal, alongside reports of residents cleaning up protest debris without institutional aid.
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Indian media on September 12 focused heavily on the political developments in Nepal, particularly the appointment of Sushila Karki as interim Prime Minister. Earlier in the day, reports highlighted the ongoing confusion and the role of Gen-Z groups in advocating for leadership changes. By midday, Karki's potential appointment was widely discussed, with President Trump's confirmation of the Charlie Kirk shooting suspect's arrest also gaining traction. The afternoon saw Karki officially sworn in as Nepal's first female interim Prime Minister, with the President announcing general elections within six months. This development brought a temporary resolution to the prolonged leadership crisis that had dominated Indian headlines for several days. Separately, bomb threats were reported at the Delhi and Bombay High Courts, leading to evacuations, though these were later deemed hoaxes. Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Manipur was also noted.
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Indian media on September 13 extensively covered Prime Minister Modi's first visit to Manipur since the 2023 ethnic violence, where he inaugurated development projects and appealed for peace amidst heavy rain. His belated intervention was met with skepticism by some, who viewed it as political theatre. Concurrently, Nepal's new interim Prime Minister, Sushila Karki, officially took office, a development Modi acknowledged with congratulations. International news also highlighted former US President Trump's call for NATO nations to impose significant tariffs on China and sanction Russia, influencing global economic dynamics. Discussions on a P-8I aircraft deal between India and the US further underlined India's evolving diplomatic and military engagements.
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Indian media on September 14 heavily prioritized the India-Pakistan Asia Cup cricket match. Morning reports focused on the controversy surrounding the game, including protests in Delhi and calls to boycott it, along with Prime Minister Modi's ongoing visit to Assam. By early afternoon, coverage shifted to the match itself, with Pakistan winning the toss and batting first. As the game progressed, reports detailed Pakistan's performance and the target set for India. In the late afternoon and evening, the overwhelming focus became India's victory over Pakistan, including reactions to captain Suryakumar Yadav's actions.
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Indian media on September 15 heavily featured the Supreme Court's partial stay of the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025. Early reports detailed the court's decision to halt certain contentious provisions, including the mandate for five years of Islam practice for waqf and restrictions on non-Muslim board members. Discussions continued throughout the day regarding the implications of the ruling on specific sections of the law. Concurrently, extensive coverage of India's cricket victory over Pakistan in the Asia Cup persisted from the previous day, with a focus on Captain Suryakumar Yadav's controversial decision not to shake hands with Pakistani players. Later in the day, the Supreme Court issued a warning regarding the Bihar SIR exercise, threatening cancellation if irregularities were found.
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Indian media on September 16 continued its extensive focus on the monsoon's severe impact across several states, with new reports highlighting cloudbursts in Dehradun and casualties, prompting PM Modi and Home Minister Shah to assure assistance early in the day. Concurrently, several outlets confirmed Jaish-e-Mohammad's admission of Masood Azhar's family being killed in 'Operation Sindoor', and Apollo Tyres replaced Dream11 as the Indian cricket team's jersey sponsor. By early afternoon, Pakistan's Foreign Minister debunked former US President Trump's claim of India accepting third-party mediation for a ceasefire, stating India maintained a bilateral stance. Later in the evening, multiple outlets reported on former US President Donald Trump calling PM Modi to wish him a happy birthday, with some suggesting trade deals and Ukraine peace efforts were discussed.
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Indian media on September 17 extensively focused on Pakistan's controversial boycott of the Asia Cup clash against UAE. Early reports indicated Pakistan's refusal to play over a "handshake row" and demands for a referee change, leading to conflicting reports on whether the match would proceed. By early afternoon, reports confirmed Pakistan had reversed its boycott threat and was traveling to the stadium after their demands were not met. Later in the afternoon, it was widely reported that the match had begun, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) claiming the referee had apologized, a claim later refuted by the ICC. Concurrently, PM Modi's 75th birthday continued to be a prominent story, with various celebratory events by the BJP. Separately, Donald Trump's perceived flip-flops on India and comparisons to Pakistan and China also gained attention.
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Indian media on September 18 extensively focused on Rahul Gandhi's allegations of "vote theft" and electoral "fraud." In the morning, Gandhi held a press conference claiming a "hydrogen bomb" revelation, presenting "proof" of systematic deletion of 6,000 voter names in Karnataka's Aland and fraudulent additions in other states. He accused the Chief Election Commissioner of protecting those involved. By early afternoon, the Election Commission dismissed these claims as "incorrect and baseless," stating that names cannot be deleted online. Concurrently, America's potential removal of a 25% penal tariff on Indian goods, and later the revocation of sanctions waivers for India at Iran's Chabahar port, also gained attention. Separately, Neeraj Chopra's eighth-place finish in the World Championship, failing to medal, and the performance of Sachin Yadav, were also widely reported.
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Indian media on September 19 reported extensively on an ambush in Manipur where two Assam Rifles jawans were killed and five injured. This marked the first attack on central forces in the state this year, shortly after the Prime Minister's visit. Earlier in the day, reports focused on an earthquake off Russia's Kamchatka coast and Donald Trump's statements about being close to India and PM Modi. Discussions also continued regarding a Telangana techie shot dead by US police, with family seeking help for repatriation. By late morning, the focus shifted to India's message to Saudi Arabia regarding its defense pact with Pakistan and an Indian military operation in Pakistan following a terrorist attack.
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Indian media extensively covered the Trump administration's new H-1B visa rule, imposing a $100,000 annual fee for new applications, with significant implications for Indian tech workers. Early reports highlighted the fee and its impact on the tech sector. By early afternoon, the focus shifted to the immediate consequences, with tech giants like Microsoft advising H-1B visa holders to return to the US to avoid being stranded. PM Modi's statements on self-reliance were interpreted as a message regarding these changes. India expressed concerns about the humanitarian consequences and sought US measures to address the rule's impact. Later, a US official clarified the fee applies only to new applications, easing some immediate panic.
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Indian media on September 21 continued to heavily feature the Trump administration's new H-1B visa rule. In the morning, clarifications emerged that the $100,000 fee was a one-time charge for new applicants, not an annual fee, aiming to ease concerns among Indian tech workers. Union Minister Piyush Goyal's visit to the US for trade deal discussions also gained attention. Later, Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation, announcing a "GST Bachat Utsav" starting tomorrow, intended to benefit the middle class through new GST reforms and a call for a self-reliant India. Concurrently, the Asia Cup cricket match between India and Pakistan dominated live updates, culminating in India's dominant win over Pakistan, with particular focus on the performances of Abhishek and Gill. The Congress party, however, criticized the GST rates.
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Indian media on September 22 extensively covered the implementation of GST 2.0, with morning reports highlighting that everyday goods and services would become cheaper, a development welcomed by consumers and shopkeepers. PM Modi also issued a letter to the nation, praising the reforms for lowering costs and benefiting citizens.
Concurrently, the evolving H-1B visa situation remained a prominent topic, particularly with EAM Jaishankar meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Discussions focused on bilateral relations and trade agreements amidst renewed US restrictions and potential benefits for the UK.
Reports of the Pakistan Air Force bombing a village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in civilian casualties, also gained significant attention. Separately, news related to Air India, including a reported hijacking attempt and a Supreme Court decision on a past plane crash, was also featured. The Supreme Court's hearing on the Delhi riots case also continued to be reported, with notices issued on bail pleas.
Concurrently, the evolving H-1B visa situation remained a prominent topic, particularly with EAM Jaishankar meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Discussions focused on bilateral relations and trade agreements amidst renewed US restrictions and potential benefits for the UK.
Reports of the Pakistan Air Force bombing a village in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in civilian casualties, also gained significant attention. Separately, news related to Air India, including a reported hijacking attempt and a Supreme Court decision on a past plane crash, was also featured. The Supreme Court's hearing on the Delhi riots case also continued to be reported, with notices issued on bail pleas.
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Indian media on September 23 extensively covered the release of Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan from jail after 23 months, with live updates and analyses of its political implications throughout the morning and early afternoon.
Concurrently, heavy rainfall in Kolkata caused significant flooding and fatalities, leading to early Durga Puja holidays and widespread disruption.
By the afternoon, media attention shifted prominently to Donald Trump's statements at the UN General Assembly. Trump accused India and China of funding the Ukraine war through oil purchases, while also reiterating his claim of ending seven "unendable wars," including between India and Pakistan. This generated considerable discussion across multiple news outlets.
Concurrently, heavy rainfall in Kolkata caused significant flooding and fatalities, leading to early Durga Puja holidays and widespread disruption.
By the afternoon, media attention shifted prominently to Donald Trump's statements at the UN General Assembly. Trump accused India and China of funding the Ukraine war through oil purchases, while also reiterating his claim of ending seven "unendable wars," including between India and Pakistan. This generated considerable discussion across multiple news outlets.
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Indian media extensively covered violent protests in Ladakh's Leh throughout the day, where demonstrators, supporting environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, clashed with police and torched a BJP office while demanding full statehood for Ladakh. Early reports detailed clashes and the burning of a BJP office, escalating by late morning with reports of fatalities and injuries, leading to a curfew. The Home Ministry later attributed the violence to Sonam Wangchuk's "provocative statements." Concurrently, the Karnataka High Court upheld government content takedown orders against X Corp, emphasizing the need for social media regulation. India also condemned Pakistan at the UNHRC for air strikes.
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Indian media continued extensive coverage of violent protests in Ladakh over statehood demands, with reports of deaths and injuries in clashes where a BJP office was torched in the morning. Concurrently, the dispute between India and Pakistan over cricket escalated, reaching the ICC. By early afternoon, focus shifted to the government's crackdown on Sonam Wangchuk, with the Centre canceling his NGO's foreign funding license following the Leh violence and accusations of financial irregularities. Wangchuk warned that his imprisonment could cause more problems and claimed he was being made a scapegoat. Other significant news included the successful test of India's Agni Prime missile from a rail-based launcher and the arrest of a Pakistani spy in Rajasthan. Wipro founder Azim Premji refused to open a campus road to ease Bengaluru traffic.
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Indian media on September 26 extensively covered President Trump's newly announced tariffs, particularly the 100% tariff on drugs, which reports indicated would significantly impact India's pharmaceutical exports. The Indian stock market reacted negatively, with shares of pharma companies falling.
Concurrently, the farewell of the MiG-21 fighter jets from Indian service was widely reported, with discussions on its legacy and significance to India-Russia ties. By late morning, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's arrest in Leh, following violent statehood protests in Ladakh, became a prominent story. Reports cited provocative speeches and the potential involvement of political groups and Pakistan in the unrest.
In the afternoon, India strongly rejected NATO Chief Mark Rutte's claim that PM Modi had contacted President Putin about Ukraine, calling the statement "baseless." Diplomatic walkouts during Israeli PM Netanyahu's UN General Assembly speech, protesting the Gaza war, also garnered significant attention.
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Indian media focused heavily on the unfolding tragedy at actor Vijay's rally in Tamil Nadu. Early reports in the afternoon indicated a stampede with initial death tolls ranging from two to 29. As the day progressed, the number of reported fatalities steadily increased, with several sources confirming death tolls as high as 36, and later 38. Government officials reportedly visited the site and compensation for victims was announced. This rapidly developing story dominated national headlines, largely overshadowing other ongoing issues such as the Ladakh unrest, the 'I Love Muhammad' protests, and the upcoming India-Pakistan cricket final. Foreign Minister Jaishankar's address at the UNGA, where he criticized Pakistan, was also covered.
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Indian media on September 28 was dominated by two major stories. The Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan garnered significant attention throughout the day, with live updates covering Pakistan's batting collapse against India's spin attack in the afternoon, and India's subsequent successful chase to win the cup by early evening. Concurrently, the aftermath of the Karur rally stampede remained a prominent headline. Reports detailed the rising death toll, reaching 40, and ongoing discussions surrounding compensation, investigative commissions, and judicial hearings concerning the incident. Early in the day, the arrest of Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati on sexual harassment charges also received considerable coverage.
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September 29 saw continued extensive media coverage of India's Asia Cup victory over Pakistan, particularly the Indian team's refusal to accept the trophy from the PCB chief, leading to diplomatic and political reactions from both sides throughout the morning and early afternoon. Concurrently, the Karur rally stampede remained a prominent story, with reports detailing the rising death toll to 41 and emerging political blame games. By the afternoon, police claimed organizers deliberately delayed Vijay's arrival, contributing to the fatal crowd crush. News also emerged of Canada designating Lawrence Bishnoi's gang as a terrorist entity, and discussions continued around Trump's proposed 100% tariff on non-US made films.
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Indian media on September 30 maintained a strong focus on the US-brokered Gaza peace plan. Throughout the morning, reports detailed US President Trump's specific proposals, including a buffer zone, with Prime Minister Modi welcoming the plan and urging support from all nations.
Concurrently, the aftermath of the Karur stampede continued to be a significant story, with actor-politician Vijay blaming CM Stalin and challenging him. In the afternoon, a new major incident emerged: a thermal power station accident in Chennai, with multiple sources confirming nine deaths after an arch collapsed.
The Asia Cup trophy controversy also persisted, with the BCCI reportedly grilling PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi over the team's refusal to accept the trophy, and planning to complain to the ICC.
Concurrently, the aftermath of the Karur stampede continued to be a significant story, with actor-politician Vijay blaming CM Stalin and challenging him. In the afternoon, a new major incident emerged: a thermal power station accident in Chennai, with multiple sources confirming nine deaths after an arch collapsed.
The Asia Cup trophy controversy also persisted, with the BCCI reportedly grilling PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi over the team's refusal to accept the trophy, and planning to complain to the ICC.
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