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  • Udupi: Mandatory Registration for Coaching Centers in 30 Days

    Udupi, September 4, 2025: In compliance with a directive from the Supreme Court in a writ petition case, all government and private educational institutions, coaching centers, and training institutes operating in Udupi district are required to implement a Uniform Mental Health Policy. This policy aims to ensure the mental and physical well-being of students, providing mental health support, a safe environment, and non-discriminatory education.

    As per the Karnataka Tutorial Institutions (Registration and Regulation) Rules, 2001, all coaching centers in the district must mandatorily register with the Deputy Director of the Pre-University Education Department, Manipal, Udupi, within 30 days. Failure to comply will result in legal action and the suspension of unregistered coaching centers, as stated by the Deputy Director in an official release.

  • CM Siddaramaiah and Family Cleared in MUDA Site Allotment Case

    Bengaluru, September 5, 2025: The Karnataka State Cabinet has accepted the report submitted by the Justice P.N. Desai-led single-member inquiry commission, which cleared Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his family of any wrongdoing in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) site allotment controversy. The commission, appointed in July 2024 to investigate allegations of irregularities in MUDA’s site allocations, submitted its findings in two volumes on July 31, 2025.

    Law Minister H.K. Patil, addressing the media after the cabinet meeting, stated, “The allegations against the Chief Minister and his family hold no merit, as clearly established by the Justice P.N. Desai commission. The report has been accepted by the government, and it recommends action against certain officials involved in irregularities.”

    The inquiry was initiated following allegations of illegal site allotments, particularly involving Parvathi, the wife of CM Siddaramaiah, who was accused of receiving compensatory sites. The commission examined MUDA’s site allocation processes from 2006 to July 15, 2024, spanning 19 years, and identified significant irregularities, particularly between May 2020 and July 2024. It pointed to actions by commissioners, surveyors, staff, and unauthorized beneficiaries that caused financial losses to MUDA.

    The report highlighted several issues:

    • Illegal allotments: Sites were allocated to ineligible beneficiaries, including cases where claims were made decades later using forged documents.
    • Non-existent or unsuitable sites: Compensatory sites were allotted despite being physically unavailable, unsuitable for habitation, or located near crematoriums, leading to financial losses for MUDA.
    • Systemic issues: The commission noted widespread irregularities at various stages of the allotment process and recommended structural reforms within MUDA to prevent future malpractices.

    The commission’s report includes 80 recommendations, urging the recovery of losses from errant officials, surveyors, staff, and beneficiaries involved in the irregularities. It also calls for judicial and departmental inquiries to hold those responsible accountable.

  • Brahmavara Police Raid Gambling Den in Lodge, Arrest 11

    Brahmavar, September 5, 2025: In a targeted operation, Brahmavar Police raided Room No. 203 on the second floor of Rashmi Bar & Lodge in Heradi village, apprehending 11 individuals involved in an illegal Andar Bahar card gambling operation. The raid was conducted following credible information about the gambling activities, where the accused were found betting cash.

    The arrested individuals are: Vishwanath Poojari Bhatkal (43), Ganesh Poojari (30), Keshav (57), Prabhakar Shetty (49), Jayaraj (40), Raju Poojari (59), Rajeev Shetty (49), Ratnakar (53), Prashant (38), Harish Mogaveer (40), and Lohith Kuppuswamy Bhavi (38).

    During the raid, police seized ₹21,080 in cash and several vehicles linked to the accused. The operation confirmed that the group was actively engaged in gambling with cash stakes. A case has been registered at the Brahmavar Police Station under relevant sections, and further investigations are underway to address the illegal activities.

  • Udupi Man Loses ₹1.32 Crore in Online Investment Scam

    Udupi, September 4, 2025: Henry D. Almeida (69), a resident of Udupi, has fallen victim to an online investment scam, losing a staggering ₹1,32,90,000 between July 22, 2025, and September 1, 2025. The scam began when Almeida came across an investment trading advertisement on Facebook on July 19, 2025. Clicking the ad led him to a website, in.*******-***.*om, and he subsequently received messages on WhatsApp urging him to invest in trading.

    A person identifying themselves as Ankita Ghosh contacted Almeida, providing information about investment opportunities and adding him to a 725 B*B C**S WhatsApp group. The group contained messages from various numbers promising high returns on investments. Trusting these claims, Almeida contacted the 725 B*B C**S customer care service via WhatsApp, where he was provided with multiple bank account details for transferring funds.

    Over the period from July 22, 2025, to September 1, 2025, Almeida transferred a total of ₹1,32,90,000 in phases to the provided accounts, believing he would receive profits. However, neither the invested amount nor any returns were provided, and Almeida realized he had been deceived, resulting in significant financial loss.

    The Udupi CEN (Cyber, Economic, and Narcotics) Crime Police Station has registered a case under Crime No. 46/2025, invoking Sections 66(C) and 66(D) of the IT Act and Section 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for cheating and identity theft through digital means. The police are investigating the incident.

  • Sirsi’s Mohammad Rafi Baig Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in Indian Army

    Sirsi, September 4, 2025: Mohammad Rafi Baig, a native of Sirsi, has been promoted from Major to Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army, bringing immense pride to his hometown. The promotion ceremony was held in a simple and dignified manner at the Ranikhet Army Camp in Uttarakhand on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

    Born in Sirsi in 1980, Mohammad Rafi Baig completed his primary education at Revanakatta and high school at Union High School, Sirsi. His father, Abdul Ghafoor Baig, was an assistant teacher in the state government and later taught at Marikamba High School, Sirsi.

    Mohammad Rafi Baig joined the Indian Army as a soldier in 1997 and rose through the ranks through sheer hard work and dedication. Alongside his military service, he pursued higher education, completing his graduation from Karnataka University, Dharwad, as an external candidate. He also successfully cleared the Army Competitive Examinations, paving the way for his promotions. His elevation to Lieutenant Colonel after 28 years of service is a testament to his perseverance and commitment, earning admiration from his family and the people of Sirsi.

  • Udupi DAR’s ASI Shankar Honored with President’s Medal for Distinguished Service & Achievements

    Udupi, September 4, 2025: Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Shankar, serving with the District Armed Reserve (DAR) in Udupi, has been conferred the prestigious President’s Medal for his exemplary service and remarkable achievements in sports. The award was presented by Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot during the President’s Medal Ceremony 2025 held at Raj Bhavan, Bengaluru, on August 30, 2025.

    ASI Shankar has distinguished himself not only through his dedicated service in the police force but also through his outstanding performance in sports at national and international levels. Over the course of his career, he has won an impressive 57 medals in various athletic competitions, significantly enhancing the reputation of the Karnataka Police Department.

    In 2014, Shankar represented India at the International Masters Athletics Championship in Malaysia, where he secured gold medals in the 4x100m and 4x400m relay races, along with silver medals in the 100m and 200m races. Additionally, he has consistently excelled in district and state-level police annual sports meets, earning numerous accolades.

    President’s Meritorious Service Medal 2023

    With 26 years of service in the police department, ASI Shankar has demonstrated exceptional efficiency, professionalism, and integrity. In recognition of his distinguished service and sporting achievements, he was awarded the President’s Meritorious Service Medal during the Independence Day celebrations of 2023.

  • Centre’s Major GST Overhaul: Slabs Reduced to Two (5% and 18%), Hundreds of Items to Get Cheaper from September 22

    New Delhi, September 3, 2025: The GST Council, in its 56th meeting chaired by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, approved a landmark overhaul of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure, reducing the four main slabs (5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) to two slabs of 5% and 18%, effective from September 22, 2025, the start of Navratri. A special 40% slab will apply to “sin goods” like tobacco and luxury items, while cigarettes and similar items retain 28% plus compensation cess until loan repayments are cleared.

    The reforms aim to boost consumption ahead of the festive season, address inverted duty structures in textiles and fertilizers, ease MSME compliance, and counter export challenges from US tariffs. Sitharaman emphasized that the changes prioritize the “common man and middle class.” GST on individual life and health insurance policies (term, ULIP, endowment, family floaters, senior citizens) and reinsurance is now exempt (0%), enhancing affordability.

    “This is a simpler, growth-oriented GST reform,” Sitharaman said. “We’ve corrected inversions, removed disputes, and ensured economic momentum with state support.”

    Key Changes: What’s Cheaper and What’s Costlier Nearly 99% of items in the 12% slab move to 5%, and 90% in the 28% slab shift to 18%. Essentials like paneer, Indian breads (roti, paratha), and namkeens are now at 0% or 5%, while luxury goods like large cars and tobacco face 40%. Below is a table of major rate changes (sourced from the Ministry of Finance):

    GST Rate Changes Table

    DescriptionFrom (%)To (%)
    Condensed milk125
    Butter, ghee, oil125
    Cheese125
    Paneer or chenna50
    Dates125
    Fish and caviar, prepared and preserved125
    Shrimps and prawns, prepared and preserved125
    Refined sugar (flavored/colored), sugar cubes125
    Confectionery185
    Cocoa powder185
    Chocolates and other food preparations185
    Pasta125
    Pastry, cakes, biscuits, bread185
    Pizza bread50
    Khakhra, chapathi, roti50
    Jams and fruit jellies125
    Tender coconut water125
    Coffee extracts185
    Coffee125
    Mustard, mayonnaise125
    Soups and broth185
    Ice cream185
    Paratha, parotta, other Indian breads180
    Namkeens125
    Pan masala2840
    Diabetic foods125
    Drinking water125
    Mineral/aerated waters185
    Aerated beverages with sugar2840
    Non-alcoholic beverages1840
    Plant-based milk185
    Soya milk drinks125
    Fruit juice125
    Carbonated beverages with fruit juice2840
    Beverages containing milk125
    Caffeinated beverages2840
    Cigars and cigarettes2840
    Bidis2818
    Tobacco2840
    Retail medicines125
    Bandages, dressing125
    Talcum powder, face powder185
    Hair oil, shampoo185
    Dental floss, toothpaste185
    Tooth powder125
    Shaving cream, lotion, aftershave185
    Agarbatti1218
    Toilet soap185
    Candles, tapers125
    Handcrafted candles125
    Silicon wafers125
    All diagnostic kits125
    Tyre for tractors185
    Handbags125
    Wood, stone idols125
    Handicraft125
    Exercise books, graph books, notebooks120
    Maps120
    Carpets125
    Handmade/hand embroidered shawls125
    Apparel over Rs 2,5001218
    Footwear less than Rs 2,500 per pair125
    Umbrellas125
    Mathematical/geometry/colour boxes125
    Wind mills125
    PV cells125
    ACs2818
    Solar water heater125
    Dishwashing machines2818
    TVs2818
    Motor cars (other)2840
    Petrol cars (≤1200cc, ≤4000mm)2818
    Diesel cars (≤1500cc, ≤4000mm)2818
    Ambulances2818
    Three-wheeled vehicles2818
    Hybrids (≤1200cc, ≤4000mm)2818
    Hybrids (>1200cc or >4000mm)2840
    Bodies for motor vehicles2818
    Parts and accessories (auto)2818
    Bumpers and parts for tractors185
    Motorcycles (≤350cc)2818
    Motorcycles (>350cc)2840
    Bicycles, non-motorized125
    Yachts, vessels for pleasure/sports2840
    Glucometer and test strips125
    Contact lenses, spectacle lenses125
    Spectacle frames, mountings125
    Spectacles, corrective125
    Thermometers185
    Revolvers and pistols2840
    Pencils, crayons120
    Smoking pipes2840
    Combs, hair pins125

    Additional Notes:

    • Exemptions: GST on 33 life-saving drugs reduced to 0% from 12%; 3 cancer/rare disease drugs to 0% from 5%; several drugs to 5% from 12%. All individual life/health insurance policies (term, ULIP, endowment, family floaters, senior citizens) and reinsurance now 0% from 18%.
    • Agriculture and Handicrafts: Tractors, agricultural machinery, 12 bio-pesticides, natural menthol, handicrafts, marble/granite blocks to 5% from 12%. Cement to 18% from 28%.
    • Textiles and Fertilizers: Man-made fibre to 5% from 18%, yarn to 5% from 12% (textile inversion fix). Sulfuric/nitric acid, ammonia to 5% from 18% (fertilizer fix).
    • Renewable Energy: Biogas plants, windmills, PV cells, solar heaters to 5% from 12%.
    • Tobacco: Retains 28% plus cess until loan repayment; transition to 40% to be set by FM.

    Broader Impacts The reforms introduce pre-filled returns, automated refunds, and simplified registration for MSMEs. The end of compensation cess by March 2026 frees fiscal space, though states like Jammu & Kashmir flagged revenue concerns. Experts estimate a ₹5.31 lakh crore (1.6% GDP) consumption boost, countering export risks from US tariffs. The second meeting day on September 4 will finalize transition details.

    Read Full List HERE

  • Amit P. Mesta Crowned Champions of Champions at Mr. Karnataka Bodybuilding Championship

    Gujjadi, September 3, 2025: Amit P. Mesta, son of Jyoti Prakash Mesta from Gujjadi village in Kundapur taluk, has achieved a remarkable feat by being crowned Champions of Champions at the Mr. Karnataka Bodybuilding Championship held in Bengaluru on August 24, 2025. His outstanding performance across multiple categories has earned him the prestigious Mr. Karnataka 2025 title, inspiring young athletes in the region.

    Amit secured gold medals in both the Men’s Physique and Classic Physique categories, while clinching a silver medal in the Bodybuilding category. His excellence in the Classic Physique division led to the highest honor of Champions of Champions, solidifying his position as the overall winner of the state-level event.

  • Hemmadi Janata PU College Student Maria Viyol Barretto Selected for State-Level Table Tennis

    Hemmadi, September 3, 2025: Maria Viyol Barretto, a second-year PUC Science student at Janata Pre-University College in Hemmadi, has emerged victorious in the district-level table tennis tournament organized by the Department of Pre-University Education, Udupi District. Her outstanding performance has earned her selection to represent the district at the state-level competition.

    Maria’s achievement has been warmly congratulated by the college’s administration board, principal, and the entire team of teaching and non-teaching staff.

  • Kundapura Police Arrest Six in Extortion and Assault Case Involving ₹51,200

    Kundapura, September 3, 2025: The Kundapura Police have arrested six individuals in connection with an extortion and assault case reported by Sandeep Kumar, following an incident on September 2, 2025. The accused, identified as Abdul Savad, Saifulla, Mohammad Naseer Sharif, Abdul Sattar, Abdul Aziz, and Asma, allegedly lured the complainant to Kundapur, assaulted him, and extorted ₹51,200 through cash and digital transactions.

    According to the complaint, Sandeep Kumar met Abdul Savad three months ago during a visit to Kundapur and maintained contact. Savad introduced him to Asma and other associates, promising illicit services. On September 2, 2025, at around 6:30 PM, Asma instructed Sandeep to meet her near RR Plaza by Malnad Petrol Bunk in Kundapur. She then took him to her residence, where the other accused were called in.

    The accused demanded ₹3 lakh from Sandeep, with Mohammad Naseer Sharif allegedly threatening him with a knife. When Sandeep attempted to flee, the group tied his hands with a nylon rope and assaulted him. Saifulla reportedly struck Sandeep on his left shoulder and back with a rod, while Asma and Saifulla forcibly took ₹6,200 in cash from his pocket. Under duress, Sandeep transferred ₹5,000 via Google Pay to Saifulla’s mobile number. The accused continued to demand more money, threatening to kill and bury him. Frightened, Sandeep made additional transfers of ₹10,000 and ₹20,000 to Saifulla’s number. The group also forcibly took his SBI ATM card, extracted the PIN, and withdrew ₹40,000 from his account while confining him in Asma’s residence. The accused released him around 11:30 PM after further threats.

    Based on Sandeep Kumar’s complaint, the Kundapur Police registered a case under Crime No. 109/2025, invoking Sections 140(2), 310(2), 115(2), 118(1), 127(2), 352, and 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Under the directives of Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, IPS, and guidance from Additional Superintendent of Police Sudhakar Naik, the investigation was led by Deputy Superintendent of Police H.D. Kulkarni. The team, comprising PSI Nanjanayak N. (Law & Order), PSI Pushpa (Investigation), and staff members Prince, Ghanashyam, Raju, Nagesha, Mahabala, Raghavendra, Gautam, Bhagirathi Nagashree, and Revathi, conducted an operation in Koteshwara village. The accused confessed to the crime during interrogation.

    The arrested individuals are:

    1. Savad alias Achchu, 28, Kattebagi, Badakere, Padumunde, Navunda village, Byndoor taluk
    2. Saipulla, 38, Gandhi Katte (Bolakatte), Gulwadi village, Kundapur taluk
    3. Mohammad Naseer Sharif, 36, Hangaloor village, Kundapur taluk
    4. Abdul Sattar, 23, Janata Colony, Moodugopadi, Kumbhashi village, Kundapur taluk
    5. Abdul Aziz, 26, Kolluru Main Road, near Holagaru Government School, Nagodi post, Hosanagar taluk, Shivamogga district.
    6. Asma, 43, Kodi, Kundapura taluk, Udupi district; currently at Gopadi village, Kundapur taluk

    The accused were produced before the court, and the police seized two vehicles used in the crime: a car with registration KA 20 MD 7072 (estimated value ₹10,00,000) and another car with registration KA 20 ME 0272 (estimated value ₹8,00,000).