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Chhath train crowd crisis- Rahul Gandhi challenges where the promised 12 000 special trains-

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The Indian Railways, anticipating the massive travel surge during Diwali and Chhath, announced that they would run up to 12,000 special train trips

New Delhi, Oct.25,2025:The Indian Railways, anticipating the massive travel surge during Diwali and Chhath, announced that they would run up to 12,000 special train trips (not necessarily 12,000 distinct trains) over the festive period-

For instance, the Central Railway (CR) alone stated they planned around 1,702 special trains to cater to the surge, starting from major terminals including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Pune, Kolhapur and Nagpur.

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At the same time, passenger feedback from some quarters appears positive: certain travellers praised improvements in cleanliness, crowd-management and décor, citing the timely operations of special trains.

So far, on paper: intention, resources and announcements appear considerable.

What Rahul Gandhi is alleging

In this context, Rahul Gandhi has publicly questioned the effectiveness of these arrangements. His key allegations-

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  • He claimed trains travelling to Bihar for Chhath are “packed to 200% capacity” with people hanging from doors and even roofs.
  • He asked: “Where are the 12,000 special trains?” — implying that the promise is unfulfilled.
  • He suggested the situation is symptomatic of deeper issues: lack of dignified employment in Bihar forcing people to travel thousands of kilometers for work and then back for festivals; the “double-engine” government’s claims are hollow if people must suffer such journeys.
  • He asserted that travel with safety, respect and comfort is a right, not an favour.

While I did not find a direct link to the exact quote as posted by Gandhi in the sources I accessed, his broader criticism of railway safety and work-conditions is documented.

In effect, his message: The Chhath train crowd crisis is not just logistical — it’s political, social and reflects the state of infrastructure and dignity in transit.

On-the-ground data & crowd reality

Travel surge

  • According to a report from Mumbai, around 1 lakh passengers daily from Mumbai to UP/Bihar during Diwali-Chhath period by 50+ trains (CR + WR) were recorded.
  • The Delhi division of the Northern Railway (NR) ramped up security and holding areas at major stations like New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Sarai Rohilla due to the Chhath rush.
  • In Bhopal, stations such as Rani Kamlapati and Bhopal reported heavy crowds; more coaches were added, holding areas prepared, but passenger complaints of overpricing and overcrowding surfaced. 3.2 The “12,000 special train trips” claim
  • The 12,000 figure apparently refers to trips (i.e., runs) of special trains over the festive window, not necessarily 12,000 unique train sets.
  • The East Central Railway (ECR) clarified that fewer trains may run multiple trips.

Gaps, complaints & risks

  • Despite arrangements, passengers still complain about overcrowding, difficulty in finding confirmed seats (particularly to Bihar/Jharkhand/UP).
  • Infrastructure constraints (platforms, tracks, scheduling) especially in high-demand areas like Bihar have been raised as issues by passenger associations.
  • Overcrowding carries safety risks: prior incidents elsewhere (though not necessarily linked directly to Chhath) show that large crowds in railway stations can lead to crushes and fatalities.

Why the promise of 12,000 special train trips is controversial

Realistic vs rhetorical figures

The number “12,000” carries weight — it sounds massive, signalling comprehensive coverage and relief. But when tempered by the clarification that it refers to trips rather than distinct trains, a few issues arise-

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  • Each trip may carry only standard capacities; if a route remains congested, one extra trip might still not suffice.
  • Infrastructure bottlenecks (platforms, track slots, terminal turnaround) limit how many trips can truly meet demand.
  • When demand spikes dramatically (e.g., seasonally for Chhath), even enhanced capacity may fall short.

Infrastructure & scheduling stress

Passenger bodies, especially from Bihar, have questioned feasibility: their region has high outbound and inbound traffic during Chhath, yet railway infrastructure there is already under strain.

For example-

  • The need for extra coaches, holding areas, applied crowd control etc. suggests that simply “more trips” may not solve deeper capacity constraints.
  • If many trains are already overcrowded, adding more trips may shift congestion rather than relieve it.

The dignity dimension

Rahul Gandhi’s line isn’t just about numbers — it draws attention to the experience of the traveler: tickets hard to get, journeys that are “inhumane”, people hanging from doors/roofs. If true, the issue is not only quantitative but qualitative — the right to safe, respectful travel.

The political-social dimension: dignity, infrastructure and the migrant question

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Travel as a reflection of employment and opportunity

Gandhi’s critique links the travel situation to broader socio-economic issues:

“If people in the state got employment and a respectable life, they wouldn’t have to wander thousands of kilometres to return home for festivals.”

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This connects the Chhath train crowd crisis to migration, labour, regional imbalance and infrastructure.

Accountability and public promise

When governments announce big figures (12,000 special trips), public expectation rises. When travellers see packed coaches, long queues, discomfort — credibility suffers. Gandhi’s political framing leverages that mismatch.

Infrastructure vs hope

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The Indian Railways is a vast system, but festive surges test its limits. The holding areas, CCTV up-grades, extra RPF/GRP personnel all show proactive steps (e.g., Delhi division ramping up security).

Yet when passengers still feel unsafe or treated unfairly, the narrative shifts from “festival travel” to “systemic neglect”. The Chhath train crowd crisis becomes a symbol of that.

solutions and take-aways

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Here are actionable suggestions tied to the Chhath train crowd crisis

Capacity boosting and better utilization

  • Not just more special trains/trips, but more coaches, better turn-around, platform upgrades especially on high-demand routes (to Bihar/Jharkhand/UP).
  • Dynamic scheduling: real-time assessment of waiting lists, standby extra coaches.
  • Infrastructure investments: more platforms, better terminal handling in source and destination cities.

Better crowd-management and traveller dignity

  • Holding areas (as some stations have done) with water, toilets, seating — not just dumping people on platforms. Bhopal’s effort is a positive example.
  • Clear communication: real-time alerts, dedicated counters for seniors/disabled, better signage.
  • Monitoring ticket issuance, ensuring no over-crowding beyond safe limits.

Transparency and accountability

  • If huge numbers (like 12,000 trips) are announced, periodic public updates on how many have actually run, how many passengers served, any cancellations/delays, complaint redressal.
  • Allow passengers/associations to raise issues in real time — ticketing, crowding, safety.
  • Public auditing of high-demand corridors during festive surges.

Addressing structural causes

  • Recognise that massive festive travel is partly a symptom of migration and uneven development. Creating local jobs, strengthening local connectivity would reduce frantic long-distance travel.
  • Create long-term plans for states with heavy inbound/outbound festival flows: Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern UP — targeted infrastructure investment.

The Chhath train crowd crisis is more than a travel-story — it’s a mirror to how millions attempt to journey home under pressure, how promises are made vs lived reality, and how infrastructure, dignity and policy converge at a railway platform.

Match the scale of the surge with the scale of the response — only then can the rhetoric of “12,000 special train trips” convert into respectable, safe and dignified journeys for travellers. As Rahul Gandhi has challenged, asking the question is just step one — now comes the delivery, so the festival of Chhath becomes not a struggle but a reunion.

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Credent TV Editorial Team is the newsroom desk of Credent TV, a digital news platform owned and operated by Manasvita Global Media Pvt. Ltd. Editorial oversight is led by Sunil S. L. Narnauliya, Editor-in-Chief. The desk covers national affairs, Rajasthan, education, courts, politics, culture and social issues. Its work follows Credent TV’s Ethics Policy, Fact-Check Policy and Correction Policy. For corrections, feedback or source clarifications, contact the newsroom at https://credenttv.com/contact-us/

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Virgo Transport 8 Reported Sunk in Java Sea; Rescue Search Continues

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Virgo Transport 8 Reported Sunk in Java Sea; Rescue Search Continues

Banjarmasin | 13 Sep 2026

Indonesian passenger ship Virgo Transport 8 was reported to have sunk near Banjarmasin on 13 September, with one death reported and search operations continuing. Dhany Rachmad, general manager of Pelindo’s Kotabaru port, told Radio Suara Surabaya that information gathered from the scene indicated the vessel had capsized after developing a leak.

The ship was travelling from Surabaya in East Java to Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan when it encountered bad weather. Initial reports had described a loss of communication in the Java Sea.

Virgo Transport 8 Rescue Figures Remain Preliminary

In an earlier update, Pelindo officials told Suara Surabaya that 115 people had been evacuated, with one death and one injury included in that account. The report put the number aboard at 240 and said 125 people were still being sought. These figures were provisional.

Initial accounts differed on the number aboard. The Associated Press reported 241 people, while Indonesian broadcaster tvOne quoted Banjarmasin search-and-rescue chief I Putu Sudayana as saying 243. A reconciled passenger and crew total was not available in those reports.

Nearby Ships Join Search Near Banjarmasin

Passing vessels helped recover people from the water, while a search-and-rescue ship was dispatched from Banjarmasin. Evacuation arrangements were being coordinated through Trisakti port.

Rachmad said the captain had reported a leak before the ship developed a list. The cause of the leak remained unknown; bad weather had been reported, but a definitive cause of the incident had not been established.

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Anwar Ibrahim Sings Kishore Kumar Classic at BRICS Dinner in Delhi

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Anwar Ibrahim Sings Kishore Kumar Classic at BRICS Dinner in Delhi

New Delhi | 12 Sep 2026

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sang a Kishore Kumar classic at the BRICS gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 12 September. Accompanied by a pianist, Anwar performed “Khwaab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat”.

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Anwar Ibrahim Shares Singing Video

Anwar shared a video of the performance on his X account. The clip showed him standing beside the pianist and joining the musical performance during the gathering.

The dinner formed part of the 18th BRICS Summit programme in the Indian capital.

A Familiar Song for the Malaysian Leader

The song is from the 1965 Hindi film Teen Devian. Kishore Kumar sang the original, with music composed by S. D. Burman and lyrics written by Majrooh Sultanpuri.

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Anwar had previously sung the same number during his 2024 visit to India, on the sidelines of an India Today interview. His latest performance brought the song back into his public appearances in India.

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BRICS Summit 2026 Backs Local-Currency Trade as India Clarifies Common Currency Position

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BRICS Summit Backs Local-Currency Trade as India Clarifies Common Currency Position

New Delhi | 12 Sep 2026

The BRICS Summit in New Delhi backed greater use of national currencies in trade and investment, while India clarified that there was no proposal for a common BRICS currency. The discussions focused on reducing transaction costs and improving cross-border payments, according to remarks by India’s BRICS Sherpa Sudhakar Delela. 

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BRICS Summit Prioritises Local-Currency Trade

Delela, Secretary for Economic Relations in the Ministry of External Affairs, said the emphasis was on expanding trade within BRICS and strengthening engagement with businesses internationally.

The New Delhi Declaration supported further work on connecting payment and messaging systems. It also backed discussions on settling trade and investment transactions in members’ currencies, while recognising that countries would need approaches suited to their circumstances.

These commitments concern cooperation between existing national financial systems; they do not amount to the launch of a shared currency.

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Development Finance and Payment Cooperation in Focus

The declaration encouraged the New Development Bank to expand local-currency financing and diversify funding for infrastructure projects. The BRICS Payment Task Force is also examining closer integration of national payment systems to improve the speed and security of international transactions, according to [The Indian Express](https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/brics-new-delhi-summit-declaration-key-takeaways-10875050/).

The financial agenda therefore centres on further technical cooperation and financing initiatives. The commitments should not be read as confirmation that a unified BRICS payment network is already operational.

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Saudi Arabia Shuts East-West Oil Pipeline After Drone Attacks From Iraq

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Saudi Arabia Shuts East-West Oil Pipeline After Drone Attacks From Iraq

Riyadh | 12 Sep 2026

Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut its East-West oil pipeline after drone attacks struck sections of the critical network in the Riyadh and Medina regions, intensifying concerns over global crude supplies as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains severely disrupted.

Saudi pipeline closed as a precaution

The Saudi Energy Ministry said the 1,200-kilometre pipeline was closed as a precaution while authorities assessed the damage. The Saudi Foreign Ministry reported injuries but did not disclose their number or clarify the immediate effect on crude exports.

Saudi Arabia and Iraq said the drones had been launched from Iraqi territory. However, Saudi authorities had not publicly identified who carried out the attacks as of Saturday.

The East-West pipeline carries crude across the Arabian Peninsula to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, allowing Saudi exports to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Ship-tracking companies and energy analysts estimate that the network has recently transported between four million and five million barrels per day—equivalent to roughly four to five per cent of global oil supply.

Iraq dismisses commander and opens investigation

Iraq’s government said an investigation found that the attacks originated from Maysan province, which borders Iran. Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered the dismissal of the provincial operations commander and announced a wider inquiry.

Baghdad also closed the Shalamcheh and Chazabeh border crossings with Iran until further notice. Iraqi authorities said they had launched an operation to identify and apprehend those responsible.

Saudi Arabia said it would refrain from immediate retaliation following a request from Iraq’s prime minister, giving Baghdad an opportunity to act. Riyadh nevertheless maintained that it reserved the right to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, national security and critical infrastructure.

Hormuz disruption increases pipeline’s importance

The pipeline has become increasingly important since the conflict involving Iran disrupted tanker movements through the Strait of Hormuz, a route used for about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade.

Its shutdown places additional pressure on Gulf energy exports at a time when Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea shipping route is also facing growing security risks. Crude prices moved above $100 a barrel during the week as markets assessed possible supply shortages and wider regional escalation.

Houthi advance threatens second shipping corridor

Four Yemeni government sources told Reuters that Iran-aligned Houthi forces had seized Perim Island in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, at the southern entrance to the Red Sea. The group was also reported to have captured the nearby coastal town of Dhubab.

The developments could expose both sides of the Arabian Peninsula’s oil-export network to disruption: the Strait of Hormuz in the east and the Bab el-Mandeb route in the west.

A Houthi military spokesman said maritime navigation remained safe for vessels other than Saudi ships covered by a previously announced restriction. Iran describes the Houthis as an ally but denies directing their military operations.

Saudi crude supply falls to three-decade low

The International Energy Agency estimated that Saudi crude supply fell by 2.3 million barrels per day in August to six million barrels per day, its lowest level in more than three decades. Saudi Arabia reported different figures to OPEC, saying it produced 6.238 million barrels per day and supplied 7.122 million barrels per day during the month.

Damage assessments and investigations into the pipeline attacks remain under way. The duration of the shutdown and its full impact on Saudi exports have not yet been officially confirmed.

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Bihar and Uttar Pradesh Floods Hit Millions as IMD Warns of More Rain

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Bihar and Uttar Pradesh Floods Hit Millions as IMD Warns of More Rain


New Delhi | 12 Sep 2026

Flooding across Bihar and Uttar Pradesh has affected millions of residents, submerged villages and forced evacuations as swollen rivers remain above danger levels at several locations. The India Meteorological Department has also forecast further rain across parts of northern, central and eastern India.

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Bihar floods affect more than four million people

More than four million people across 14 Bihar districts have been affected by flooding, according to state-level figures reported by multiple news organisations. Relief and rescue operations are continuing in inundated settlements.

The Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Budhi Gandak, Punpun and Ghaghra have crossed danger levels along different stretches. Bihar’s real-time flood-monitoring system showed the main Ganga channel above warning level on September 12, although some monitored rivers were falling.

The flooding has occurred despite Bihar recording about 27 per cent less rainfall than normal between June 1 and the first week of September. Heavy upstream flows and intense local rainfall have pushed rivers beyond their carrying capacity.

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High Ganga level worsens drainage problems

The elevated Ganga has created a backwater effect in tributaries including the Gandak and Punpun. Because these rivers discharge into the Ganga, its high water level has restricted their flow and caused water to accumulate in adjoining areas.

Flood pressure has damaged three protective bunds in Bhagalpur, leading to fresh inundation. Authorities are monitoring embankments, river levels and vulnerable settlements while relief teams distribute essential supplies and assist displaced families.

More than 350,000 residents affected in Uttar Pradesh

Floods have affected about 353,000 people across 26 districts of Uttar Pradesh, according to figures reported by state officials. More than 17,500 residents have been moved to safer locations, while thousands are staying in relief shelters.

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The Ganga has crossed or approached the danger mark at several monitoring points. Ballia, Ghazipur, Varanasi, Badaun, Farrukhabad and adjoining riverine areas have faced inundation, while the Ghaghra and other rivers have also threatened low-lying settlements.

Floodwater has submerged several Varanasi ghats and disrupted cremations at traditional sites. Relief camps have been opened for evacuated families, with arrangements for food, drinking water, bedding and medical assistance.

IMD forecasts renewed rain across Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh

The IMD’s extended forecast indicates widespread rain with thunderstorms and lightning over western Madhya Pradesh from September 12 to 14. Similar conditions are forecast over eastern Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh until September 14.

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Rainfall activity is expected to increase over eastern Rajasthan from September 13 to 15, with isolated heavy rain possible on September 13 and 14. Uttarakhand could also receive isolated heavy rain, raising the risk of localised flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.

Residents in flood-prone locations have been advised to follow official weather and river-level alerts, avoid overflowing roads and bridges, and comply with evacuation directions issued by local authorities.

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BRICS Summit Opens in New Delhi as Modi Hosts Putin and Xi

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BRICS Summit Opens in New Delhi as Modi Hosts Putin and Xi


New Delhi | 12 Sep 2026

The 18th BRICS Summit began at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Saturday, bringing together leaders and representatives of 11 major emerging economies as India seeks stronger cooperation on trade, investment, technology, energy security and reform of global institutions.

BRICS Summit in New Delhi draws major world leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hosting the two-day summit on 12–13 September under India’s 2026 BRICS chairship. Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa are among the prominent leaders attending.

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Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed are also participating. Brazil is represented by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, while Saudi Arabia’s delegation is headed by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

The United Arab Emirates is represented by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Leaders and representatives from partner countries, invited nations and international organisations are also attending.

Xi Jinping arrives for first India visit in seven years

Xi arrived in New Delhi on Saturday, marking his first visit to India since 2019. He received a ceremonial welcome at the airport before joining the summit engagements.

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Modi and Xi are scheduled to hold bilateral talks on Saturday evening. Their meeting will be closely watched as India and China cautiously work to stabilise relations following the deterioration caused by the 2020 military clash along their disputed Himalayan border.

China’s Foreign Ministry said ahead of the visit that Beijing was willing to view bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, manage differences appropriately and strengthen cooperation with India.

Modi and Putin discuss trade, energy and regional conflicts

Modi held bilateral talks with Putin in New Delhi on Friday, a day before the leaders’ summit. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders reviewed their special and privileged strategic partnership and discussed political, defence, energy and economic cooperation.

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They also exchanged views on conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region, including their effects on maritime trade and the safety of Indian seafarers. India and Russia have
BRICS Summit Opens in New Delhi as Modi Hosts Putin and Xi New Delhi | 12 Sep 2026

The 18th BRICS Summit opened at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Saturday, bringing together leaders and representatives of major emerging economies for two days of talks on trade, investment, global governance, technology and regional conflicts.

BRICS Summit begins amid global economic and geopolitical tensions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hosting the September 12–13 meeting under India’s fourth BRICS chairship. India’s theme for 2026 is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with an emphasis on development-oriented cooperation and a stronger voice for the Global South.

The summit is taking place against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, war involving Iran, disruption to global energy and shipping routes, and growing disputes over tariffs, sanctions and Western-led financial systems.

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Talks are expected to cover political and security cooperation, economic and financial coordination, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Members are also considering ways to expand trade in national currencies, strengthen supply chains and reform international institutions.

Xi Jinping arrives in India after seven years

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in New Delhi on Saturday for the summit and a scheduled bilateral meeting with Modi. It is Xi’s first visit to India since 2019 and comes as the two Asian neighbours cautiously seek to stabilise relations damaged by the deadly 2020 border confrontation.

The Modi-Xi talks are expected to focus on bilateral relations and the management of continuing differences. China’s Foreign Ministry said before the visit that Beijing was willing to approach relations from a strategic and long-term perspective and properly manage disagreements.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed are among the prominent participants.

Brazil is represented by Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, while Saudi Arabia’s delegation is led by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. Representatives from partner countries, invited nations and international organisations are also attending.

Modi and Putin discuss trade, energy and regional conflicts

Modi held bilateral talks with Putin in New Delhi on Friday, a day before the leaders’ summit. India’s Ministry of External Affairs said they reviewed political, defence, energy and economic cooperation and exchanged views on conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region that have affected maritime trade and the safety of Indian seafarers.

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India and Russia have set a target of increasing bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030, from nearly $70 billion in the 2024–25 financial year. New Delhi continues to defend its energy purchases from Russia as necessary for securing affordable and reliable supplies.

Expanded BRICS seeks greater influence in global governance

BRICS now comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. According to Indian government figures, the 11 members account for 49.5 per cent of the world’s population, about 40 per cent of global gross domestic product and 26 per cent of global trade.

The New Delhi summit will test whether the expanded grouping can reach common positions despite differences among members over major conflicts and their relationships with the United States and other Western powers. Negotiations on the summit’s final outcome will indicate the extent of consensus on trade, financial cooperation, multilateral reform and global security.

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Modi-Putin Meeting Focuses on Trade, Energy and Major Defence Proposals

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Modi-Putin Meeting Focuses on Trade, Energy and Major Defence Proposals

New Delhi | 11 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held bilateral talks in New Delhi on Friday, reviewing cooperation in trade, energy, defence and technology ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.

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The meeting covered the broader India-Russia strategic partnership, including civil nuclear energy, fertilisers, critical minerals, manufacturing, railways and steel. Defence proposals involving the Su-57 fighter aircraft, S-400 air-defence system and BrahMos missile programme were also expected to feature in the discussions.

Modi-Putin meeting puts defence cooperation in focus

Russia has proposed supplying its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft to India and has expressed readiness to discuss technology sharing and domestic production. India had not announced any purchase or production agreement at the time of reporting.

The two sides were also expected to review the remaining S-400 deliveries and long-term maintenance arrangements. A proposed upgrade of India’s Su-30MKI fleet and future cooperation on advanced air-defence systems have formed part of wider defence discussions.

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India and Russia are separately examining improvements to the jointly developed BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. The proposed BrahMos-NG would be lighter than the existing system and designed for integration with a wider range of aircraft, including the Tejas fighter.

Trade, energy and Ukraine discussed

Modi and Putin discussed expanding bilateral trade and developing reliable payment and transport mechanisms. India and Russia have explored greater use of national currencies while seeking solutions to the imbalance created by India’s substantially higher imports from Russia.

Energy remains central to the relationship. India has defended its purchases of Russian oil by citing the need for secure, affordable and dependable supplies for its population and economy.

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Modi reiterated India’s position that the conflict in Ukraine should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. New Delhi has said it supports credible efforts aimed at achieving peace while continuing its economic engagement with Moscow.

Civil nuclear cooperation, including existing Russian involvement at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant and the possibility of additional projects, was also expected to receive attention.

BRICS Business Forum draws more than 2,000 delegates

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said more than 2,000 business leaders and delegates from BRICS member and partner countries attended the BRICS Business Forum. Discussions covered non-tariff barriers, global value chains, agriculture, services, women-led enterprises and the digital economy.

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International delegations arrive in New Delhi

Nigerian Vice-President Kashim Shettima arrived in India to participate in the BRICS Summit, joining leaders and senior representatives from member, partner and invited countries.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also arrived in New Delhi and was received at the airport by Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar.

Foreign ministers hold bilateral consultations

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira at Hyderabad House. Their discussions covered bilateral relations and international issues ahead of the summit.

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Modi also presented Putin with a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, the classical Tamil work attributed to poet-philosopher Thiruvalluvar, during their engagement in New Delhi.

Indian cuisine and millets feature in summit hospitality

Hotels accommodating BRICS delegates prepared Indian menus featuring millet-based dishes. Amit Biswas, executive sous chef at The Lalit New Delhi, said the menu was designed to promote millets while serving the requirements of international guests.

The BRICS leaders’ summit is scheduled for 12 and 13 September at Bharat Mandapam. Leaders are expected to discuss economic cooperation, global governance, trade, financial coordination, sustainable development and current international conflicts.

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Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman to Skip BRICS Summit in New Delhi

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Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman to Skip BRICS Summit in New Delhi


Dhaka | 10 Sep 2026

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will not attend the BRICS Summit in New Delhi after Dhaka said the invitation was issued to the current BIMSTEC chair rather than to Rahman in his capacity as Bangladesh’s head of government.

Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir confirmed the decision while speaking to reporters on Thursday. Bangladesh will consequently have no government representative at the summit, according to the latest reports.

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Dhaka clarifies BIMSTEC invitation

Bangladesh is not a BRICS member. India had invited the BIMSTEC chair to participate in an outreach session organised alongside the summit. Bangladesh currently holds the chairmanship of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation.

Dhaka’s position is that the invitation was addressed to the head of the regional grouping and did not constitute a formal invitation to the Bangladeshi prime minister. Indian authorities had not publicly announced a change to the invitation arrangement at the time of reporting.

BIMSTEC comprises Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The grouping promotes cooperation in areas including trade, connectivity, security, energy and economic development.

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What is the BRICS outreach session?

The host country may invite non-member states and representatives of regional organisations to BRICS outreach meetings. These sessions allow participants outside the bloc to discuss development, trade, energy, food security and other international issues with BRICS leaders.

India previously brought BRICS and BIMSTEC leaders together during the 2016 summit in Goa. The 2026 BRICS Summit is scheduled for 12 and 13 September at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

Separate India visit remains under consideration

Kabir indicated that Dhaka was considering a separate bilateral visit by Rahman, but no date had been finalised. A proposed visit in August did not take place, with Bangladesh saying at the time that no final decision had been made.

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India and Bangladesh have been seeking to stabilise relations amid differences over former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who has remained in India since leaving Bangladesh in 2024. Dhaka has requested her extradition, while India has said the request is under examination.

Bangladesh has also signalled that future bilateral talks should address trade, water sharing and other unresolved issues. Any visit by Rahman would be his first to India since assuming office in February 2026.

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India Monsoon Floods Close Kedarnath Route, Affect Millions Across UP and Bihar

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India Monsoon Floods Close Kedarnath Route, Affect Millions Across UP and Bihar


New Delhi | 11 Sep 2026

A reported cloudburst and landslide closed the Kedarnath pedestrian route in Uttarakhand on Friday as renewed monsoon activity intensified flooding across Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar.

Large boulders reportedly fell on the Kedarnath route after heavy rain, blocking the pilgrimage track. No confirmed casualty figure was immediately available.

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Kedarnath route closed after landslide

Uttarakhand remained under a yellow alert for thunderstorms and rain across all districts. Heavy rainfall was forecast at isolated places in Dehradun, Tehri, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Nainital, Bageshwar and Pithoragarh.

Officials were assessing the affected section of the Kedarnath route. Travellers and pilgrims were advised to follow local administration instructions and avoid landslide-prone areas.

Floods affect 26 districts in Uttar Pradesh

More than 10 rivers, including the Ganga and Yamuna, were reported to be in spate across Uttar Pradesh. Flooding affected 26 districts and more than 400,000 people, according to figures cited in state-level reports.

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A bridge was submerged in Mirzapur, while floodwater covered part of a highway in Farrukhabad. Residents of several villages in Unnao were using improvised boats after the swollen Ganga disrupted local transport.

The weather department forecast heavy rain in 48 districts on Friday. Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj and Kaushambi were among 32 districts that received rain on Thursday.

Bihar flood crisis affects about 4.4 million people

Eight rivers were flowing above their danger levels in Bihar, where flooding had affected approximately 4.4 million people across 2,360 villages in 14 districts, according to disaster-management figures reported by Indian media.

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Nearly 27,954 people were staying in relief camps. Floodwater had also entered parts of Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University, while villages in Munger and other riverine districts remained inundated.

Authorities continued relief operations as rising water levels in the Ganga, Kosi and other rivers threatened low-lying settlements.

Heavy-rain alert issued for 12 Madhya Pradesh districts

The monsoon system became active again in Madhya Pradesh after a three-day break. Heavy rain was forecast in 12 districts on Friday, with further rainfall expected in the Indore, Narmadapuram and Ujjain divisions from 12 September.

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Flood-like conditions were reported in Damoh, where several residential areas were waterlogged. Bhopal, Narmadapuram and Vidisha also received rain on Thursday night.

Rain alerts extend across Rajasthan and Jharkhand

Rajasthan issued a yellow alert for heavy rain in nine districts as a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal revived monsoon activity. The wet spell was expected to continue until 15 September.

Jharkhand forecast heavy rain in eight districts, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and winds of 30–40 kilometres per hour. Residents in vulnerable areas were advised to avoid flooded roads, swollen rivers and unstable slopes.

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Modi-Putin Meeting Puts Su-57, S-400 and BrahMos Cooperation in Focus

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Modi-Putin Meeting Puts Su-57, S-400 and BrahMos Cooperation in Focus


New Delhi | 11 Sep 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to hold bilateral talks in New Delhi on Friday, with defence, trade, energy and technology cooperation expected to dominate the agenda ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.

Putin arrived in the Indian capital late on Thursday for a three-day visit. The proposed sale and possible production of Russia’s Su-57 fifth-generation fighter aircraft in India may figure in the talks, but New Delhi has not announced any agreement.

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Modi-Putin meeting to cover major defence programmes

Discussions are expected to include pending S-400 air-defence system deliveries, maintenance support and the proposed upgrade of India’s Su-30MKI fighter fleet.

Russia has also proposed expanding cooperation on the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile programme. The two countries are examining improvements to the existing missile and the development of the lighter BrahMos-NG variant, which is intended for deployment on a wider range of aircraft.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said earlier that the possible sale of the Su-57 to India was on the agenda. Any purchase, technology-transfer arrangement or domestic production plan would require formal negotiations and approval from the Indian government.

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Trade, nuclear energy and connectivity also in focus

The two leaders are expected to review bilateral trade, investment, civilian nuclear energy and payment arrangements. India and Russia have been exploring wider use of national currencies while addressing practical difficulties created by their trade imbalance.

Connectivity projects, including the International North-South Transport Corridor and the proposed Chennai-Vladivostok maritime route, may also be discussed as both countries seek faster and more reliable supply chains.

BRICS leaders and delegates arrive in Delhi

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in New Delhi for the summit and was received at the airport by Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar.

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External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also met Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira at Hyderabad House for discussions on bilateral relations and international issues.

Delegates attending the summit are being offered an Indian menu featuring millet-based dishes, according to Amit Biswas, executive sous chef at The Lalit New Delhi.

Iranian President arrives for BRICS Summit

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also arrived in New Delhi on Friday. He is scheduled to meet Modi separately as India engages key BRICS partners amid continuing geopolitical and economic tensions.

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The BRICS leaders’ summit is scheduled to be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 12 and 13 September.

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