National
UP Launches Solar Energy Projects Exceeding 1100 MW Capacity, Generating 7,556 Jobs
Officials announced on Tuesday that over the past year, the total operational capacity of 17 solar power plants in the state has reached approximately 1100 MW, backed by an investment of around Rs 7492.4 crore. These solar facilities have created over 7556 direct jobs, highlighting the profound economic benefits of renewable energy growth in Uttar Pradesh.
The state is rapidly advancing its renewable energy agenda, with several solar power plants set to commence operations in 2024 and early 2025. These projects are significantly enhancing the state’s solar capacity, particularly in key areas like Bundelkhand and Poorvanchal, which are emphasizing sustainable development and local job creation.
Officials noted that Bundelkhand, once regarded as a backward region, is now evolving into Uttar Pradesh’s renewable energy powerhouse. The region’s abundant sunshine makes it ideal for solar energy production, with new installations increasing its capacity to 995 MW, establishing it as UP’s new energy hub.
The flagship initiative in this area is the 600 MW Jhansi Solar Power Project by TUSCO Limited, which commenced operations in January 2025. This major solar project, supported by an investment of Rs 3430 crore, has not only amplified energy generation but also created around 300 jobs locally.
In addition to this, the 100 MW Solar Plant by Fourth Partner Energy in Babina, Jhansi, opened in mid-2024 with a Rs 1200 crore investment, generating 1000 employment opportunities. Another significant addition to Bundelkhand’s capacity is the Sun Source Energy Solar Open Access Project, contributing an additional 135 MW to the state’s energy grid. Funded with Rs 600 crore, this project has also created 500 local jobs, greatly enhancing employment in the area. Overall, approximately 2440 people have found work at these solar facilities in Bundelkhand alone.
In Purvanchal, eastern Uttar Pradesh, 85 MW of solar power capacity has been installed, highlighted by Tata Power’s TP Renewable Microgrid initiative in Bahraich. This initiative emphasizes rural electrification through decentralized solar solutions and aims to set up 5000 microgrids across villages in the state. With an investment of Rs 500 crore, it aims to provide sustainable electricity to rural households, empowering local communities.
Furthermore, Amp Energy India’s 75 MW Solar Power Project in Mau, Poorvanchal, became operational in June 2024, backed by an investment of Rs 340 crore. This project contributes to the region’s solar capacity while supporting the state’s renewable energy goals. Collectively, these solar initiatives in Poorvanchal have provided employment to over 5000 individuals.
In Paschimanchal, three solar power plants with a total capacity of 30 MW have started operations with an investment of Rs 184.5 crore. One plant is located in Agra and two are in Pilibhit, each generating 10 MW and employing around 60 local residents.
Meanwhile, a 10 MW capacity plant commenced operations in Sitapur, Madhyanchal, with an investment of Rs 40 crore.
National
West Bengal Man Detained in Bengaluru over Alleged Terror Links
Bengaluru: Bengaluru police have detained a 25-year-old man from West Bengal over his alleged links with a terror group.
The accused has been identified as Asafool Mallik. He is a native of Naopara village in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district.
Police detained Mallik in the Jigani area after receiving information about his alleged suspicious online activities.
According to the police, Mallik had allegedly established contact with a person identified as Imran Haider through Facebook. Haider, who is from Afghanistan, is suspected to have links with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Police said Mallik allegedly wanted to travel to Afghanistan and join the group. He also allegedly discussed retaliatory attacks against the Pakistan Army and possible attacks in India.
Mallik had reportedly applied for a visa to travel to Afghanistan. However, he later dropped the plan due to financial difficulties and family responsibilities, police said.
Mallik was living near APC Circle in Jigani. He had been working as a security guard at Tata Advanced Limited in the Jigani Industrial Area since December 2025.
Police said they received information about his activities while conducting patrols in the Bommasandra Industrial Area.
During questioning, Mallik allegedly said he was angry over what he believed were attacks on Muslims in Pakistan. He also reportedly expressed anger over Pakistan’s position on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Police further said Mallik was allegedly being encouraged to retaliate if Muslims faced difficulties in India.
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Police later examined Mallik’s mobile phone. They allegedly found chats, voice calls and audio conversations between Mallik and Haider.
The police are now examining the chats, recordings and other material recovered from the phone.
The investigation is underway to determine the extent of Mallik’s alleged links with the terror network.
National
Google Marks India’s Independence Day With Vibrant Doodle
Mangaluru: India is celebrating its Independence Day on August 15, 2026. Google has joined the celebrations with a special Doodle on its homepage.
The colourful Doodle reflects India’s rich culture and heritage. It features patterns inspired by traditional Indian textiles.
The artwork replaces the usual Google logo with bright colours and traditional motifs. It gives the familiar logo a distinct Indian look.
The Doodle also highlights India’s cultural diversity. Its detailed designs are inspired by India’s traditional art and textile heritage.
India became independent from British rule on August 15, 1947. The day is celebrated across the country with flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, parades and other patriotic events.
Kite flying and cultural activities are also part of the Independence Day celebrations in many parts of the country.
India gained independence on August 15, 1947, after nearly two centuries of British rule.
The freedom struggle involved the sacrifices of millions of Indians. Several prominent leaders and freedom fighters played important roles in the movement.
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Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh are among the prominent figures associated with India’s freedom struggle.
As the nation celebrates Independence Day, Google’s special Doodle adds a colourful digital tribute to India’s history, culture and national spirit.
National
India Celebrates Independence Day with Focus on Viksit Bharat
New Delhi: India celebrates Independence Day on August 15, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national celebrations at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi.
The ceremony highlighted 150 years of the national song Vande Mataram. The event also focused on the power of the youth, or Yuva Shakti.
Prime Minister Modi stressed the vision of building a developed India, or Viksit Bharat, by 2047. He called on the youth to play a key role In achieving this goal.
For the first time in the history of the Red Fort celebrations, Vande Mataram was officially rendered during the ceremony.
Prime Minister Modi appeared in a traditional tie-and-dye red turban. He paired it with a white kurta and a chocolate-brown jacket.
The celebrations followed the traditional state protocol. The national flag was hoisted at the Red Fort. A 21-gun salute was also given.
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A ceremonial Guard of Honour was presented to the Prime Minister. He later addressed the nation from the Red Fort.
The 2026 Independence Day celebrations combined India’s historic legacy with a strong message for the future. The focus remained on youth power and the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047.
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