Local Round-up: ICICI Bank New Balance Rules, Flash Floods in Uttarakhand to New Education Policy in Tamil Nadu

This week’s headlines spotlight significant policy shifts, infrastructure restorations and poignant social behaviours. From ICICI Bank’s steep balance requirements to Tamil Nadu’s new education policy, and critical disaster recovery efforts, here's the local round-up of the biggest headlines of this week across the country.

ICICI Bank Raises Minimum Average Balance Requirement Sharply for New Customers

ICICI Bank has raised its minimum monthly average balance for new savings account holders, as of 1 August 2025: Rs. 50,000 for urban and metro, Rs. 25,000 for semi-urban, and Rs. 10,000 for rural branches. Existing customers remain unaffected. Failure to maintain the balance may incur penalties—6% of shortfall or Rs. 500, whichever is lower. The policy also includes revised service charge and ATM transaction limits.

Karnataka Chief Poll Officer Demands Proof for Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Vote Chori’ Claims

The Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer has issued a notice to Rahul Gandhi, instructing him to provide documentary evidence for his allegations of “vote chori” (vote theft). This direct challenge follows public claims made by Gandhi during election rallies. The notice emphasises the need for substantiation of sensitive electoral allegations.

Uttarkashi’s Bailey Bridge Restored in Dharali Following Disaster Rebuilding

After days of disruption due to flash floods and reconstruction, the Bailey bridge at Limchigad in Uttarkashi’s Dharali is fully operational again. The temporary steel bridge restores vital connectivity between regions cut off by the disaster. Local residents and authorities welcomed the restoration, which revives access for emergency services, trade, and daily commuting.

Doctors Rally Across West Bengal Marking Anniversary of RG Kar Tragedy

Senior doctors and medical professionals took to the streets of Kolkata to mark the first anniversary of the tragic rape and murder of a trainee doctor from RG Kar Medical College. The rally, spanning key locations including near the state secretariat, saw protestors raising slogans demanding justice, safety reforms, and strict accountability.

Flash Flood in Harsil Creates Natural Lake Amid Uttarakhand Crisis

A sudden flash flood in Uttarakhand’s Harsil region—originating from heavy August rainfall and glacial runoff—has resulted in the formation of a temporary lake, submerging the valley. The lake poses risks to lives, infrastructure and downstream communities. Local officials are monitoring water levels and assessing the need for evacuation or relief measures.

Tamil Nadu Rolls Out State Education Policy Emphasising Two-Language Model

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin unveiled Tamil Nadu’s new State Education Policy, affirming the two-language formula—Tamil and English—while rejecting the three-language policy under NEP. The policy abolishes Class XI board exams, maintains no-detention up to Class VIII, and makes Tamil compulsory up to Class X.

Ghaziabad Police Bust Baby-Trading Gang Fixing Prices by Skin Tone, Gender

Ghaziabad police have busted an illicit baby-trafficking ring involving owners of a marriage bureau, who allegedly sold infants to childless couples. Disturbingly, prices varied based on skin tone and gender. Four individuals have been arrested. The case has sparked outrage, highlighting brutal realities of child trafficking.

Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Café in Canada Vandalised in Second Attack This Month

Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Café in Canada was attacked again within a month—this time, shots were fired at the establishment. Reports confirm damage to property, though no injuries were reported. This recurring incident has raised alarm over owner safety and security threats to high-profile entertainers abroad.

Hyderabad Firm Lokesh Machines Unveils India’s First Indigenous MMG

Hyderabad-based defence firm Lokesh Machines has developed India’s first indigenously manufactured Medium Machine Gun (MMG) in the private sector. The weapon system enhances self-reliance in arms production, reducing dependency on foreign imports. Officials note that the MMG meets strategic requirements for ruggedness and performance.

Centre Withdraws New Income Tax Bill, Plans Re-Introduction with Amendments

The Central Government has withdrawn the recently proposed Income Tax Bill, following concerns raised by lawmakers. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans to reintroduce a revised version after further consultation. The withdrawal reflects responsiveness to parliamentary and stakeholder feedback, particularly regarding contentious provisions.

PM Modi Inaugurates Kartavya Bhavan, A High-Tech Centrepiece of Central Vista

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Kartavya Bhavan, a high-tech administrative building forming a pivotal part of the Central Vista precinct in New Delhi. The modern structure houses central ministries and streamlines governance with advanced infrastructure.