Top India News Headlines

• The government has directed edible oil associations to maintain the maximum retail price (MRP) amid an increase in customs duty on various edible oils.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked well-wishers for their greetings on his 74th birthday, saying he is "humbled and honored."
• A leopard was spotted roaming near the Electronic City Phase 1 toll plaza in Bengaluru, prompting high alert in the area.
• Pitru Paksha 2024, also known as the Shradh period, is observed to pay homage to ancestors and starts on the Pratipada Tithi of Krishna Paksha in Bhadrapada month.

Kolkata Rape-Murder Case Updates

The Supreme Court is closely monitoring the Kolkata rape and murder case of a trainee doctor. Key developments include:

• The CBI has been asked to file a new status report ahead of the hearing on September 17.
• The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided the residence of TMC MLA Sudipto Roy in connection with the case.
• Junior doctors in Kolkata will continue their cease-work and demonstrations until Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee fulfills their demands, including the resignation of Kolkata Police Commissioner Vineet Goyal.

PM Modi's 74th Birthday Celebrations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated his 74th birthday on September 17. Here are some highlights:

• Several BJP leaders organized a 'Seva Pakhwada' (service fortnight) to mark the occasion.
• PM Modi inaugurated 26 lakh PM Awas houses in Bhubaneswar and interacted with beneficiaries.
• Extensive security measures were in place for the event.

Traffic Advisory for Ganpati Visarjan in Mumbai

As Mumbaikars bid farewell to Lord Ganesh during Ganpati Visarjan, the Mumbai Police issued a traffic advisory to manage the large crowds and ensure safety. Commuters were advised to avoid certain routes and be prepared for diversions.

Pitru Paksha 2024: Significance and Rituals

• Pitru Paksha is a 16-day period when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors and perform various rituals and ceremonies.
• It is observed during the waning phase of the moon (Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada.
• Significant rituals include offering food and water to ancestors, performing Shradh, and conducting ceremonies for their souls' peace.

Delhi Weather: More Rains Predicted

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted a generally cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle in Delhi on September 17. The minimum temperature was expected to be around 24.4 degrees Celsius.

Leopard Sighting in Bengaluru

A leopard was spotted roaming near the Electronic City Phase 1 toll plaza in Bengaluru early on September 17, prompting the area to be put on high alert. The big cat was seen moving from the Panak India Company area to the Nettur Technical Training Foundation (NTTF) ground around 3 am.