Bangalore Karnataka National

Supreme Court Refuses to Stay New UPI MDR Framework, October 15 Rollout Remains on Track

Editor: Prathiban D C 29/09/2026 80

Supreme Court Refuses to Stay New UPI MDR Framework, October 15 Rollout Remains on Track

New Delhi, September 29, 2026: The Supreme Court has declined to grant an interim stay on the Centre’s decision to introduce a Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on specified Unified Payments Interface (UPI) person-to-merchant transactions above 2,000. The decision means the proposed framework remains scheduled for implementation from October 15, 2026, unless there is a further order or policy change.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, was hearing a petition challenging the government’s notifications introducing the new UPI merchant-payment framework.

Instead of stopping the proposed rollout, the court has sought responses from the Union government, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). The respondents have been asked to submit their replies within four weeks. The court has also questioned the legal basis and nature of the proposed charge.

Under the new framework, eligible person-to-merchant UPI payments above 2,000 will generally attract an MDR of 0.4 per cent. The charge is subject to limits, including a maximum MDR of 300 for transactions of 75,000 and above. Payments between individuals will continue to remain free.

The government has maintained that MDR is not a tax or government fee. Instead, it is described as a charge within the digital payments ecosystem, with the amount distributed among participating entities involved in processing the transaction. The government has also stated that the MDR should not be separately recovered from customers.

The framework also provides exemptions and special provisions for certain categories. According to the Centre’s submissions before the Supreme Court, around 96 per cent of transactions routed through payment gateways are expected to remain exempt. Certain essential-service transactions will have a lower cap, while small merchants covered under the zero-MDR framework will continue to receive payments without the new charge.

The proposed change comes after nearly six years during which UPI merchant payments operated without a conventional MDR. The government has argued that the revised system is intended to support the long-term sustainability of the digital-payment ecosystem as transaction volumes continue to expand.

For ordinary UPI users, the immediate impact is expected to be limited because the proposed MDR is structured as a merchant-side charge rather than a direct customer transaction fee. However, the treatment of the additional cost by individual businesses could become an important issue once the framework takes effect.

The Supreme Court’s latest order does not finally determine whether the MDR framework is legally valid. The court has only declined to halt its implementation at this stage while seeking responses from the concerned authorities.

The next phase of the case will therefore focus on the government’s legal and technical justification for the framework. Until the court issues another direction, the proposed October 15 implementation date remains unchanged.

Dynamic Leader News Desk

Prathiban DC

International

Noah’s Ark Mystery Deepens as Researchers Drill Into Turkey’s Boat-Shaped Formation

Editor: Prathiban D C 29/09/2026 141

Doğubayazıt, Türkiye: A decades-old mystery surrounding a boat-shaped geological formation in eastern Türkiye has entered a new phase after researchers began deep drilling and subsurface investigations at the site associated with the biblical story of Noah’s Ark.

The Durupınar Formation, located in Ağrı province near Mount Ararat, has attracted attention since it was identified in aerial photographs in 1959. Measuring approximately 157 metres in length, the unusual formation has long been debated by researchers, with competing explanations suggesting either a natural geological structure or the remains of an ancient vessel.

In 2026, the investigation has moved beyond surface observations and remote sensing. A research program led by archaeologist Prof. Dr. Cenker Atila of Sivas Cumhuriyet University, together with an international research team, received official authorization from Turkish authorities to conduct detailed geological and geophysical investigations at the site.

Researchers have used ground-penetrating radar, electrical-resistivity surveys, LiDAR mapping and soil sampling to examine what lies beneath the formation. The project’s published research notes that earlier surveys identified unusual linear features, right-angle patterns and possible corridor- or room-like structures underground. However, the researchers themselves stress that these observations are suggestive rather than conclusive.

One of the latest developments is the collection of core samples from deeper sections of the formation. According to the research team, drilling has reached depths of up to approximately 18 metres, allowing material from beneath the surface to be collected for laboratory analysis. The team has also reported encountering cavities and organic-rich layers during the drilling programme.

Soil testing has produced another point of interest. Researchers reported that samples taken from inside the formation contained approximately three times more organic material than samples collected from surrounding areas. The finding is being investigated further, but organic-rich soil alone cannot establish that the material came from a wooden ship.

The research team has also announced plans to use a small underground robotic system to investigate selected subsurface spaces identified during earlier surveys. The objective is to obtain additional visual and physical evidence without carrying out large-scale excavation.

Despite the renewed excitement, there is currently no independently verified archaeological evidence proving that the Durupınar Formation is Noah’s Ark. The site’s unusual appearance has been debated for decades, and geological explanations for its formation remain part of the wider discussion.

The current investigation is therefore significant mainly because researchers are now collecting physical samples that can be subjected to laboratory testing. The research program says the samples and other findings will undergo further analysis, with additional scientific results expected as the project progresses.

For now, the Durupınar Formation remains an intriguing archaeological and geological mystery rather than a confirmed discovery of Noah’s Ark. The results of laboratory testing and independent scientific examination will be crucial in determining what the unusual formation actually contains.

Dynamic Leader News Desk

Prathiban DC

Bangalore Karnataka

Karnataka’s Drought Situation Comes Under Centre’s Lens From October 3

Editor: Prathiban D C 28/09/2026 108

Bengaluru, September 28, 2026: The Centre has confirmed that three Central teams will visit Karnataka from October 3 to assess the state’s drought situation, including crop damage, water availability and conditions faced by farmers across affected regions.

The assessment comes after Karnataka declared a large number of taluks drought-affected and sought financial assistance from the Union government. The Central teams are expected to compare the state’s assessment with ground-level conditions before further decisions are taken on drought relief.

Three Teams to Cover Major Regions

The Inter-Ministerial Central Team will be led by Joint Secretary Ajeet Kumar Sahu. The teams have been assigned different parts of the state for the field assessment.

One team will cover Tumakuru, Chitradurga, Davanagere and Vijayanagara. A second team will visit Hassan, Mysuru and Chamarajanagar, with Mandya also being considered as part of the assessment, particularly in connection with water levels in the Krishna Raja Sagar reservoir.

The third team will focus on Yadgir, Raichur, Bagalkot and Koppal in North Karnataka.

The teams are scheduled to begin the assessment process from October 3, with officials expected to inspect affected areas and interact with state and district authorities.

177 Taluks Declared Drought-Affected

Karnataka has so far declared 177 of its 240 taluks as drought-affected. Ground-level verification is also continuing in another 50 taluks, meaning the number of affected areas could change as assessments progress.

The drought situation has raised concerns over crop production, drinking water availability, livestock and rural livelihoods. The Central assessment is expected to provide an independent field-level picture of the situation.

Karnataka Seeks Central Financial Assistance

The Karnataka government has sought approximately ₹3,705.30 crore in assistance under its drought memorandum for the 2026 Kharif season.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has also requested the Centre to release 50 per cent of the requested assistance as interim support, along with an advance release of the Central share of disaster-response funds. The state has said immediate assistance is required for measures including crop-loss support, drinking water arrangements and protection of livestock.

The Karnataka government has also announced a 1,250-crore one-time relief package for around 50 lakh farmers, according to reports on the state’s drought response.

Focus Turns to Rabi Season

The drought assessment comes at a crucial time as preparations begin for the Rabi agricultural season.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has asked drought-affected states to consider available water and soil moisture while deciding their Rabi cropping plans. Areas with limited water availability may need to consider crops requiring comparatively less irrigation.

The Centre has indicated that the field assessments in Karnataka will help determine the extent of the drought and the assistance required by the state.

For farmers and rural communities across Karnataka, the October assessment is expected to be closely watched as the state awaits further decisions on drought relief and financial assistance.

Dynamic Leader News Desk

Prathiban DC

Employment Karnataka

Nandini Milk Price Hike Debate Intensifies in Karnataka as Government Reviews Proposal

Editor: Prathiban D C 28/09/2026 129

Bengaluru, September 28, 2026: The debate over a possible increase in Nandini milk prices has intensified in Karnataka, with cooperative milk unions seeking higher prices while the state government examines the impact on both dairy farmers and consumers.

Representatives of Karnataka’s milk unions have been pressing for an increase in the price of Nandini milk, citing rising expenses related to cattle feed, fodder, veterinary care, transportation, electricity and milk processing. The issue has gained renewed attention following meetings between milk union representatives and Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

The demand has varied during recent discussions, with milk unions seeking increases ranging from 8 to 12 per litre. In the latest discussions, the unions have sought a 12-per-litre increase, with a portion proposed for milk producer societies. The final amount, however, has not been approved by the state government.

Government Seeks More Data

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has indicated that a final decision will be taken after examining relevant financial and market data. The government is also comparing milk prices and procurement rates in neighbouring states, including Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

The government has also sought information on production costs, milk procurement, processing expenses and the financial position of the milk unions before taking a decision.

Milk Unions Cite Rising Costs

Milk producers and cooperative unions have argued that the cost of maintaining cattle has increased considerably. Higher prices for feed, fodder, medicines and other inputs have put additional pressure on dairy farmers.

According to recent reports, Karnataka’s 16 milk unions together procure approximately 1.04 crore litres of milk every day and sell around 62.48 lakh litres of milk and curd. More than 25 lakh milk producers are associated with the cooperative network through over 15,000 producer societies.

The drought situation in parts of Karnataka has also affected fodder availability, adding to the concerns of dairy farmers and milk unions.

Financial Performance Varies Among Milk Unions

The financial position of individual milk unions is another factor in the ongoing discussion.

Data reported for April to July 2026 showed that 11 of Karnataka’s 16 milk unions recorded profits, with a combined profit of about 39.95 crore. Five unions reported losses during the same period, with Chikkaballapur recording the highest reported loss of approximately 11.88 crore. Bengaluru’s BAMUL reported a profit of about 15.73 crore during the period.

The figures indicate that the financial situation is not uniform across all milk unions.

Consumers Await Final Decision

Any increase in Nandini milk prices could directly affect household budgets, hotels, restaurants, tea shops and other businesses that use milk regularly.

The government therefore faces the task of considering the demands of milk producers and cooperative unions while also assessing the effect of a price revision on consumers.

For now, no final statewide retail price increase has been announced. The proposal is expected to be considered after the government completes its review and discussions at the Cabinet level.

The final decision will determine whether Nandini milk prices change, the size of any increase and how the additional revenue is distributed between milk producers, cooperative societies and milk unions.

Dynamic Leader News Desk

Prathiban DC

Karnataka

Karnataka Makes Voting Process Easier for Senior Citizens and PwDs

Editor: Prathiban D C 12/09/2026 160

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K.Shivakumar had written to the Chief Election Commissioner, requesting that an adult family member be allowed to appear before the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO/AERO) on behalf of senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PwDs), sick persons and overseas voters.

Responding to this request, the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka, has issued directions to make the process easier.

The move will help voters who may find it difficult to appear in person to submit the required documents and information.

The aim is to ensure that every eligible voter in Karnataka can participate in the electoral process without facing unnecessary difficulties.

Karnataka

Prajwal Revanna’s ‘Mobile’ Use in Jail: Case Takes Another Explosive Turn

Editor: Prathiban D C 12/09/2026 135

Bengaluru: Former MP Prajwal Revanna, who is currently in jail in connection with a rape case, is facing fresh questions following the investigation into the alleged use of a mobile phone inside the prison. The latest findings from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) examination of the mobile phone and pen drive are said to have provided new clues to the police investigation.

According to the FSL report obtained by the police, several important digital details have been recovered. During the investigation, a pen drive seized by the authorities was examined and 173 video files were reportedly found. Among them, three videos are allegedly of Prajwal Revanna.

More than 100 pornographic videos were also reportedly found. Police are investigating the source of these videos, how they were used and when they were accessed. Digital evidence suggesting video calls with some women has also reportedly emerged during the investigation.

How Did the Mobile Phone Reach the Jail?
The alleged delivery of a mobile phone to Prajwal Revanna inside Parappana Agrahara Central Prison has also come under investigation. According to police sources, the role of a jail warder is being examined.

There are also allegations that money was paid to arrange the mobile phone. Police are investigating these claims along with the details of the SIM card and phone calls.

It is also alleged that Prajwal Revanna used the mobile phone to make calls to several young women. The police are examining the call records and other digital evidence.

Search for Digital Evidence Continues
Earlier, during a CCB raid, a mobile phone and a pen drive were reportedly recovered. The devices were sent for forensic examination, following which some videos were successfully retrieved. Efforts are continuing to recover additional data.

Based on the videos, call records and other digital evidence, police may question Prajwal Revanna again. Women who were allegedly in contact with him through video calls may also be issued notices and questioned as part of the investigation.

Jail Staff Under Investigation
The role of the concerned jail staff is also being investigated in connection with the alleged supply of the mobile phone. If the allegations are proved, legal action could be taken against those found responsible.

The latest digital evidence recovered from the mobile phone and pen drive is expected to give a new direction to the investigation into the Prajwal Revanna case. The investigation could expand further once the complete FSL findings are available.

Bangalore

CM D.K. Shivakumar Inaugurates QUANTUM at Science Gallery Bengaluru, Reinforces Karnataka’s Global Quantum Vision

Editor: Prathiban D C 07/08/2026 256

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday inaugurated QUANTUM at Science Gallery Bengaluru, reaffirming the state’s commitment to becoming a global hub for quantum technology, innovation and scientific research.

The event was attended by Sergio Gor, Ambassador of the United States to India, Priyank Kharge, Minister for IT & BT, Byrathi Suresh, Minister for Transport, Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon Group, Dr. Jahnavi Phalkey, Founding Director of Science Gallery Bengaluru, along with several distinguished guests.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of strengthening the Karnataka–United States partnership through deeper collaboration in technology, innovation, research, skilling and higher education. He said such partnerships would play a crucial role in positioning Karnataka at the forefront of emerging technologies.

Highlighting the state’s long-term quantum roadmap, Shivakumar pointed to key initiatives including India’s first Quantum City at Hesaraghatta, the Karnataka Quantum Mission, and the Centre of Excellence in Quantum Artificial Intelligence and Computing at IIIT Dharwad. He said these initiatives reflect the government’s vision of building a robust and future-ready quantum ecosystem.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to fostering scientific curiosity and public engagement with emerging technologies, the Chief Minister said institutions like Science Gallery Bengaluru are instrumental in inspiring the next generation of innovators, researchers and technology leaders.

National

Mumbai Battered by Heavy Rain: Train Services Suspended, Expressway Traffic Disrupted

Editor: Prathiban D C 06/07/2026 341

Mumbai witnessed severe disruption on Monday after incessant monsoon rains lashed the city and surrounding districts, causing extensive waterlogging, transport delays, and landslides. The heavy downpour brought normal life to a standstill, affecting thousands of commuters and prompting authorities to issue safety advisories.

One of the most significant impacts was on the Mumbai-Pune railway corridor, where train services were temporarily suspended following landslides and debris accumulation on the tracks. Railway officials deployed emergency response teams to clear the affected sections and inspect the tracks before restoring operations. Several long-distance trains were either delayed, diverted, or cancelled, leaving passengers stranded at major railway stations.

Road transportation also suffered a major setback. Parts of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway experienced traffic restrictions after heavy rainfall caused waterlogging and minor landslides in vulnerable stretches. Traffic police urged motorists to avoid unnecessary travel and use alternative routes wherever possible. Long traffic queues were reported as authorities worked to ensure commuter safety.

Within Mumbai city, several low-lying areas were inundated after continuous rainfall overwhelmed the drainage system. Water entered residential colonies, commercial establishments, and roads, slowing vehicular movement across many parts of the metropolis. Local train services, considered the city’s lifeline, also experienced delays due to water accumulation on railway tracks.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a heavy rainfall warning for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and adjoining districts, forecasting continued intense showers over the next 24 to 48 hours. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors during periods of intense rainfall, avoid flooded roads, and follow official weather updates.

Emergency teams from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local authorities have been deployed to monitor vulnerable locations, remove fallen trees, clear blocked drains, and assist residents in affected areas. Disaster management officials are also keeping a close watch on flood-prone zones and hillside regions susceptible to landslides.

Educational institutions in some affected areas announced temporary closures as a precautionary measure, while several private offices encouraged employees to work from home to minimize travel risks.

Authorities have appealed to residents to remain vigilant, avoid venturing into flooded areas, and immediately report emergencies through official helplines. With the monsoon expected to remain active, civic agencies continue to monitor the situation round the clock to minimize damage and ensure public safety.

Meteorologists have warned that intermittent heavy rainfall may continue over the coming days, and residents are advised to prepare for possible further disruptions to transportation and daily life as the monsoon remains vigorous across Maharashtra.

Employment

IT Hiring Surge Returns: AI, Cloud, and Cybersecurity Drive New Job Opportunities Across India

Editor: Prathiban D C 03/07/2026 314

Bengaluru, July 3: India’s information technology (IT) sector is witnessing a fresh wave of hiring, with companies significantly increasing recruitment in high-demand areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, and Digital Engineering. Major technology hubs, including Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai, Gurugram, and Noida, are leading this hiring momentum as businesses continue to invest in digital transformation and emerging technologies.

Industry experts say that the demand for skilled professionals has grown steadily over the past few months as organizations accelerate the adoption of AI-powered solutions, cloud infrastructure, and advanced cybersecurity systems. Companies are actively seeking software engineers, AI specialists, cloud architects, cybersecurity analysts, DevOps engineers, and data scientists to meet growing business requirements.

Bengaluru, often referred to as India’s Silicon Valley, continues to dominate the country’s technology hiring landscape. Global technology firms, multinational corporations, startups, and Global Capability Centers (GCCs) are expanding their workforce to support innovation, research, and product development. Recruitment activity has also increased among fintech, healthcare, e-commerce, automotive, and manufacturing companies that are investing heavily in digital technologies.

The growing popularity of Generative AI has further boosted demand for professionals with expertise in machine learning, large language models (LLMs), prompt engineering, AI governance, and automation technologies. Organizations are also prioritizing cybersecurity talent as businesses face increasing threats from cyberattacks, ransomware, and data breaches.

According to industry observers, employers are placing greater emphasis on practical skills rather than traditional qualifications alone. Candidates with certifications in cloud platforms, cybersecurity, AI tools, programming languages, and automation technologies are finding better employment opportunities. Fresh graduates with relevant technical skills are also seeing improved hiring prospects compared to previous years.

Many IT companies are adopting hybrid work models while continuing campus recruitment and lateral hiring. Employee upskilling has also become a major focus, with organizations investing in continuous learning programs to help their workforce adapt to rapidly changing technologies.

Recruitment agencies expect hiring activity to remain strong throughout the year as enterprises increase technology spending and digital transformation projects. Salary packages are also becoming more competitive for professionals with specialized expertise in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

With India’s technology industry continuing to expand and global demand for digital services remaining strong, experts believe the current hiring wave presents a significant opportunity for both experienced professionals and fresh graduates. As companies compete for skilled talent, AI, Cloud, and Cybersecurity are expected to remain among the most sought-after career domains in the coming years.

Bangalore

Heavy Rain Brings Bengaluru Traffic to a Standstill

Editor: Prathiban D C 03/07/2026 254

Bengaluru, July 3: Continuous rainfall across Bengaluru has led to severe traffic congestion on several major roads, leaving thousands of commuters stranded in long queues. Waterlogging in low-lying areas, pothole-ridden roads, and slow-moving vehicles have disrupted normal life across the city.

Since early morning, moderate to heavy rain has been reported in many parts of Bengaluru. The city’s major traffic corridors, including Silk Board Junction, Outer Ring Road, Marathahalli, Whitefield, Hebbal, KR Puram, Yelahanka, Electronic City, and Mysuru Road, witnessed heavy congestion as vehicles moved at a slow pace. Many office-goers and school commuters experienced significant delays during peak hours.

Water accumulation on roads has made driving difficult, particularly for two-wheeler riders and pedestrians. In several locations, vehicles broke down after being stranded in flooded stretches, adding to the traffic chaos. Emergency services and traffic police were seen working to restore normal traffic movement.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bengaluru is likely to receive more rain accompanied by thunderstorms over the next 24 to 48 hours. Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall and to remain alert while driving.

The Bengaluru Traffic Police have deployed additional personnel at major junctions and suggested alternative routes to reduce congestion. Real-time traffic updates are also being shared through official social media channels to help commuters plan their journeys.

Meanwhile, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) officials are working to clear stormwater drains, remove fallen tree branches, and pump out water from flooded areas. Disaster response teams have also been placed on standby to handle emergency situations if required.

Urban planning experts say that the recurring problems of traffic congestion and waterlogging during every monsoon highlight the need for better drainage systems, improved road maintenance, and stronger urban infrastructure. They believe long-term planning is essential to reduce the impact of heavy rains on the city’s transportation network.

With rainfall expected to continue over the coming days, authorities have urged motorists to drive carefully, maintain safe distances, avoid waterlogged roads wherever possible, and follow official weather and traffic advisories. Commuters are also advised to allow extra travel time as traffic delays are likely to persist until weather conditions improve.