🇮🇳 Top News Digest – 23 September 2025

1. Supreme Court Seeks Government Reply on Independent Probe Into Air India Crash
   India’s Supreme Court has asked the government to respond to a petition by the NGO Safety Matters Foundation demanding an independent investigation into the June 12 Air India crash that claimed over 260 lives.  The plea argues the current investigation by DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) has a conflict of interest. Preliminary DGCA findings noted cockpit confusion and issues with engine fuel switches, but did not hold Boeing or GE Aerospace responsible. The NGO wants a probe free of regulatory bias. 
   Why it matters: Independent inquiries build public trust, especially when lives are lost. If oversight bodies are involved in investigations of incidents they regulate, people often doubt the fairness. India’s aviation safety standards and trust in institutions could be affected.
2. UP Bike Rally Sees 18,000+ Women Police Among Mission Shakti 5 Events
   Over 18,000 women police officers and personnel joined a statewide bike rally in Uttar Pradesh under “Mission Shakti 5,” emphasizing women’s dignity, safety, and empowerment.  Alongside this, the state inaugurated Mission Shakti Centers in 1,663 police stations and released a booklet “Sashakt Nari, Samridh Pradesh” aimed at educating citizens about safety rights. With festive season approaching, additional vigilance has been ordered. 
   Why it matters: Safety for women remains a major concern in many parts of India. Large scale civic actions like this combined with institutional support can help change perception and practice. The engagement of police women, official resources, and community involvement all contribute to potential real impact.
3. Federal Push for Clean Energy: States Urged to Buy More
   India’s central Renewable Energy Ministry is urging state governments and state-run utilities to increase purchases of clean energy. Despite capacity being available, demand has lagged; over 44 gigawatts of clean energy generation remains unsold due to delayed procurement.  Minister Pralhad Joshi said many states are waiting for energy prices to drop further — but the government is pushing ahead with plans to make clean energy a priority. 
   Why it matters: Clean energy adoption is key for India’s emission goals, climate commitments, and energy security. Unsold clean capacity is wasted potential — both for environmental goals and for economic returns for investors.
4. Stubble Burning Season Begins in North India; Delhi Air Still Clear — But Caution Advised
   The period of stubble burning — where farmers burn leftover crop residue after harvest — has begun in North India. From 15–22 September, 64 farm fires were recorded in states surrounding Delhi.  As of now, Delhi’s air remains acceptable, thanks to favourable wind and weather. Experts warn the situation can deteriorate quickly with wind change or increased fire incidents. 
   Why it matters: Stubble burning causes significant air pollution and health hazards each year. Early warning, monitoring, and preventive measures are vital to prevent spike in respiratory issues and bad air quality episodes, especially in cities.
5. India’s Borrowing Plan for FY26 Remains Unchanged for H2
   The government has confirmed that the planned market borrowing for the second half of FY26 (October 2025 to March 2026) will remain as announced earlier. Total borrowing for the year is ₹14.82 lakh crore; about ₹6.8 lakh crore will be borrowed in H2.  Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran also stated that inflation is expected to stay subdued through the end of 2025. 
   Why it matters: Managing borrowing is critical for the fiscal stability of the country. If debt is high or borrowing unplanned, it can increase interest costs, impact government spending, and affect inflation. Keeping projections stable helps markets stay calm.
6. IndusInd Bank Names Viral Damania as New CFO
   IndusInd Bank has appointed Viral Damania as its Chief Financial Officer, marking a key leadership change.  This comes after challenges earlier this year when the bank took a $230 million hit in its accounts, leading to a shakeup in management. 
   Why it matters: Changes in bank leadership, especially CFO, can influence investor confidence. After a financial loss, stakeholders watch how the bank plans to strengthen its financial controls and risk management.
7. National SIR (Summary Revision) from October: Electoral Roll Overhaul Ahead
   The Election Commission of India (EC) has directed that all states/UTs (except Bihar) complete mapping of electors listed in their current voter rolls with those listed over 20 years ago. Deadline: 30 September 2025. This is a preparatory step for the National Summary Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls that begins in October. 
   Why it matters: Accurate electoral rolls are central to fair elections. Removing duplicates, deceased voters, errors, or outdated entries ensures integrity. For voters, this can reduce disputes: “why I didn’t find my name” etc.
8. New Udaipur-Chandigarh Bi-Weekly Superfast Express to be Inaugurated
   A new train service, the Udaipur City–Chandigarh Bi-Weekly Superfast Express (Train Nos. 20989/20990), has been approved by Northern Railway. Launch likely by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 25 September 2025.  This train will pass through key stations like Jaipur, Alwar, Rewari, Ambala Cantt etc. Departure from Udaipur at 4:05 PM, arrival in Chandigarh next morning at 9:50 AM. 
   Why it matters: Better connectivity boosts tourism, local businesses, and travel convenience. For travelers between Rajasthan and Northern states, this train shaving travel time means better planning, comfort, and costs.
9. Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Deal
   Amazon India’s Great Indian Festival 2025 sale has kicked off for Prime members, and from 23 September, lifts for all users. Among the deals, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is being offered under ₹75,000 for Prime members.  Considering its premium features (titanium build, high-end camera etc.), this is a value play. 
   Why it matters: Big sales events drive consumer sentiment, tech adoption, and often push competitors to cut prices. Also, for buyers, timing sales can offer savings. But ensure warranty and authenticity when deals look too steep.
10. Government Asks States to Boost Clean Energy Purchases (same as #3 but cross-checking ongoing issue)
    (Cross-note: Related to earlier point) Many state utilities are delaying purchases of clean energy despite capacity. The central government is emphasizing demand pull, policy clarity, and regulatory reforms to ensure these clean energy projects aren’t stranded. 

What do you think about today’s picks? Drop your thoughts in the comments!