Times of India

Ahead of the November 20 assembly elections, major political parties in Maharashtra face challenges from Independent candidates with identical names, which may confuse voters. In the Sangli district, Rohit Raosaheb Patil competes against three other Independents with similar names. In Pune, candidates Bapusaheb Tukaram Pathare and Ashwini Nitin Kadam also encounter opponents with almost identical names.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge dismisses PM Narendra Modi's One Nation, One Election proposal as impossible due to the need for parliamentary consensus. Modi contends it will strengthen democracy and optimize resources. The opposition criticizes the plan as impractical and harmful to federalism.

Hezbollah's new leader, Naim Qassem, signaled willingness for a ceasefire with Israel, demanding specific conditions. Negotiations include Israel's call for Hezbollah's withdrawal and Lebanese army deployment along the border. Lebanon and Israeli officials express cautious optimism, while US diplomatic efforts continue amid ongoing conflict in Lebanon and Gaza, generating significant casualties.

Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra Group, shared a heartfelt Diwali message on X, highlighting the festival's significance in symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. His post has garnered significant attention, resonating with many users who shared their own Diwali wishes, expressing gratitude for Mahindra's inspiring message.

Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasizes collective responsibility for the team's recent Test series defeat against New Zealand. Despite the setbacks, Gambhir believes the losses will motivate young players to improve. He stresses adapting to Test cricket conditions and highlights strong defense as crucial for player success across formats.

A 54-year-old man, Chandrakant Patel, was arrested for raping and recording sexual assaults on four young girls aged 8 to 11 in Nadiad. Patel lured the girls with sweets and money before committing the crimes. Police found hundreds of obscene videos on his phone, and further action will follow after forensic analysis.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh announced nearing completion of disengagement efforts along the LAC in eastern Ladakh, with ongoing efforts for long-term peace with China. Recent dialogues fostered a consensus to restore the pre-standoff situation, focusing on mutual security, patrolling, and grazing rights. Singh also honored Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's contributions.

National security advisors Ajit Doval and Jake Sullivan held a telephonic discussion focusing on regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. They also highlighted advancements in the bilateral partnership, including technology initiatives and defense cooperation, in addition to coordinated patrolling in Eastern Ladakh following disengagement between India and China.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his National Unity Day address, reiterated the importance of 'one nation, one election' and the implementation of a uniform civil code. He warned against divisive forces aiming to destabilize India and highlighted the country's progress towards unity, celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's legacy and efforts in integrating princely states post-independence.

Ravi Raja, the former opposition leader in the BMC, has resigned from the Congress party after 44 years of service. He felt unrecognized despite his request for a ticket in the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. The Congress selected an inexperienced candidate for Sion Koliwada. Raja will be joining the BJP today.

North Korea tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile under Kim Jong Un's orders, aiming to showcase its military power. The US, Japan, and South Korea condemned the launch as destabilizing. Officials are concerned about North Korea's emerging solid-fueled missile technology and potential military involvement in the Ukraine conflict.

At least 158 people have died in Spain following severe floods caused by torrential rains, the worst in nearly thirty years. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez urged unity, declared three days of national mourning. Rescue operations continue with warnings to avoid flooded areas. Experts cite a meteorological phenomenon for the intense rainfall.

Vivek Ramaswamy joined sanitation workers in Charlotte, North Carolina, to counter President Biden's remark describing Trump's base as "garbage." Ramaswamy operated a garbage truck and voiced support for American workers. Donald Trump made a similar gesture in Wisconsin, criticizing Biden’s comment. Biden clarified his intent, but Republicans continued to leverage the controversy.

In Kakinada district, an elderly woman, Akasam Saraswathi, and her daughter Swati ended their lives. Saraswathi had severe health issues, and Swati, devoted to her care, stayed single. Police found Saraswathi's body on a bed and Swati hanging from a ceiling fan. A case is under investigation.

Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, BSE Sensex and Nifty50, opened in red on Thursday. While BSE Sensex was down over 100 points, Nifty50 was near 24,300.

Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated as the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This year, it falls on October 31st and November 1st. The festival involves lighting oil lamps, offering prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, and sharing sweets and happiness with family and friends.

President Joe Biden's playful antics with costumed babies at the White House Halloween festivities sparked online reactions. Critics questioned his behavior as he appeared to bite two babies. The event hosted 8,000 guests, including military-connected children, with First Lady Jill Biden promoting reading through a 'Hallo-Read' theme, dressed as a giant panda while distributing treats.

Diwali festivities often come with eye irritants from fireworks smoke. Key preventive measures include staying indoors, using air filters, wearing protective eyewear, and keeping eyes moist with artificial tears. During fireworks displays, maintain a safe distance, wear safety glasses, and avoid direct viewing to protect eyes from debris and intense light.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi honors Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his birth anniversary at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat. Modi participates in the Unity Day Parade and administers the Unity oath, commemorating the occasion. He also witnesses the 'Rashtriya Ekta Diwas' parade, celebrating Patel's contributions to national integration.

India faces a potential whitewash at home against New Zealand in the third and final Test in Mumbai, risking their World Test Championship hopes. After losses and batting failures in Bengaluru and Pune, key batsmen like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma must deliver runs. Former Pakistan batsman Basit Ali stresses the importance of a win for morale before the crucial series in Australia.