Khardung La Tourism Surge, High-Altitude Challenges, BRO Border Infra Push

A revised Merchant Discount Rate framework for UPI payments is set to take effect starting October 15, 2026, applying exclusively to select person-to-merchant commercial transactions. Under the updated framework, transactions up to two thousand rupees, which account for more than ninety-five per cent of UPI volume, will remain completely free of cost for all consumers and merchants. Small merchants earning up to one lakh rupees monthly through QR codes will also continue paying zero MDR. For commercial transactions exceeding two thousand rupees, an MDR of zero point four per cent will apply, capped at three hundred rupees for amounts of seventy-five thousand rupees and above. Specific categories such as railways and fuel will attract a flat five-rupee charge. Individual person-to-person transfers will face no charges. The initiative also establishes a dedicated fund to upgrade digital payment infrastructure across small vendor networks and tier-three markets, ensuring sustainability across the financial ecosystem.

A debate has emerged over actor Vijay Sethupathi's remarks as the host of Tamil Bigg Boss, with comments on leadership and accountability being interpreted by many as subtle political commentary. Broadcaster Vijay TV issued a statement clarifying that the comments had no connection to politics and were purely fictional. Vijay Sethupathi has not commented on the matter.

A political confrontation has escalated between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam over remarks regarding former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi and the Maintenance of Internal Security Act detention legacy of M.K. Stalin. DMK legislators have submitted a breach of privilege notice to the Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker against Minister CTR Nirmal Kumar, accusing him of providing false information in the House. The development follows controversy over comments questioning the nature of Stalin's detention during the Emergency. Several DMK leaders also face legal action for making retaliatory derogatory remarks during the ongoing political war of words.

A political confrontation has erupted following remarks by Karnataka Congress Chief B.K. Hariprasad describing Umar Khalid as a nationalist. The controversy comes amid protests by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad against the screening of a documentary on Khalid at the National Law School in Bengaluru. Criticising Hariprasad's statement, the ABVP questioned how an individual who allegedly glorified parliament attack terrorists could be labelled a nationalist. The student organisation and the BJP have lashed out at the Congress, demanding clarity on whether the party endorses the Karnataka Congress chief's comments regarding Umar Khalid.