Local Round-up: NDA’s First Women Graduates, Kamal Haasan Controversy, Covid Surge and more

From India’s growing Covid-19 concerns to Kamal Haasan’s linguistic controversy and the NDA’s first women cadets graduating, this week’s news captures moments of debate, disruption, and deep national pride. From Himalayan avalanches to heroic sea voyages, and public health penalties to military summits, here’s your essential roundup of what made headlines across India this week.

India’s Active Covid-19 Cases Cross 3,000 Mark, Kerala Tops Statewise List

India’s active Covid-19 caseload has crossed 3,000, with Kerala reporting the highest number of infections. Maharashtra and Delhi follow as cases rise steadily across metro cities. Health authorities have urged caution but ruled out immediate alarm, noting that most hospitalisations are low-risk. The Union Health Ministry is monitoring the situation closely and encouraging precautionary measures. Experts attribute the rise to a seasonal uptick and relaxed public behaviour rather than a new variant.

Kamal Haasan Sparks Linguistic Row, Says Tamil Gave Birth to Kannada

Actor-politician Kamal Haasan ignited controversy after claiming that Tamil “gave birth” to Kannada. The remark, made at a literary event, drew sharp backlash from Kannada groups and politicians who called it historically inaccurate and disrespectful. Linguists and regional leaders have urged restraint, emphasising shared roots instead of hierarchical claims. While Haasan clarified his intent, the statement has once again reopened sensitive linguistic debates in South India amid rising regional assertiveness.

Indian Army Summits Everest Again on 40th Anniversary of 1985 Expedition

In a remarkable tribute to its 1985 Everest ascent, the Indian Army has successfully scaled Mount Everest again. A 22-member team of soldiers summited as part of the Silver Jubilee expedition, showcasing the force’s mountaineering legacy and endurance. This feat reinforces the Army’s adventure training capacities and marks a symbolic milestone. Defence officials praised the accomplishment, calling it an inspirational reminder of the human spirit and military resilience at extreme altitudes.

NDA’s First Batch of 17 Women Cadets Graduates in Historic Moment

The National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune witnessed history as its first cohort of 17 women cadets graduated alongside 300 male counterparts. The moment marks a major milestone in India’s journey toward gender inclusivity in armed forces training. Cadets will now proceed to specialised military academies. Defence leaders hailed the moment as transformative, celebrating the resilience and excellence of the women who broke new ground at the nation’s premier tri-services institution.

73 Deaths Recorded in First Month of Char Dham Yatra, Mostly Health-Related

At least 73 pilgrims have died during the first month of this year’s Char Dham Yatra, with most fatalities linked to pre-existing health conditions and high-altitude exertion. Uttarakhand officials report that older pilgrims and lack of fitness screenings are major contributors. Authorities are now pushing for stricter medical checks and awareness. Despite the grim toll, footfall continues to surge. Emergency services remain on high alert across Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri routes.

Avalanche Hits Srinagar-Leh Highway, Disrupts Traffic Near Zojila Pass

A snow avalanche struck the Srinagar-Leh Highway near the treacherous Zojila Pass, disrupting vehicular movement and prompting an immediate advisory. While no casualties were reported, traffic was halted temporarily due to heavy snow and low visibility. The Border Roads Organisation cleared the route swiftly. Authorities have warned of more avalanches due to unpredictable weather in the Himalayan region. Travellers have been advised to follow alerts and avoid non-essential travel until conditions improve.

Zepto Parent Company’s Dharavi Store Shut Over Hygiene Violations

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspended the license of Zepto’s parent company for its Dharavi facility over poor hygiene and unsafe food storage practices. Inspectors found unlabelled and expired food items, leading to immediate action. This move raises concerns over food safety standards in dark stores that serve online orders. Zepto has said it’s cooperating with authorities and will address all compliance gaps before reapplying for clearance.

Karnataka Raises Fine for Public Smoking to Rs. 1,000, Tightens Rules

The Karnataka government has hiked the fine for smoking in public places from Rs. 200 to Rs. 1,000, as part of a broader anti-tobacco push. Individuals under 21 are now also barred from buying tobacco products. Health officials say stricter enforcement aims to deter public smoking and reduce long-term health risks. The move aligns with national tobacco control goals and is expected to encourage cleaner public spaces across the state.

Two Indian Women Navy Officers Complete Historic Circumnavigation of the Globe

Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa Alagirisamy made maritime history by becoming the first Indian women duo to sail around the world. After a gruelling 239-day journey, they returned to Indian soil, earning praise from naval authorities and the public alike. The feat involved navigating treacherous oceans and overcoming harsh weather. The successful circumnavigation underlines India's growing focus on gender inclusion in the armed forces and its seafaring ambitions.

Floods and Landslides in Northeast Leave 32 Dead in Early Monsoon Havoc

Early monsoon rains have triggered devastating floods and landslides across northeast India, killing at least 32 people. Assam and Arunachal Pradesh have been worst hit, with roads washed out and villages submerged. Relief operations are underway, though access remains challenging in some affected areas. Authorities are urging evacuation in flood-prone districts and intensifying weather surveillance. The incident highlights the region’s vulnerability to extreme climate events amid inadequate disaster preparedness.