Latest news in India? September 18th, 2026
18-09-2026
National & Legal Developments
NEET Reforms: The Centre informed the Supreme Court that the Nandan Nilekani-led high-powered panel reviewing structural reforms for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) will submit its first interim report by the end of September.
Manipur Relief Camps: The Supreme Court expressed concern over unnatural deaths in Manipur relief camps and directed state authorities to submit a detailed status report addressing the living conditions of displaced families.
Trinamool Symbol Freeze: The Election Commission barred both rival factions of the Trinamool Congress from using the party name and symbol for upcoming assembly by-elections.
Telangana Land Probe: Authorities in Siddipet initiated an inquiry into alleged assigned-land irregularities concerning former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao’s farmhouse, following directives for a 30-day Special Enquiry Team probe.
Economy & Corporate
UPI MDR Stance: The government affirmed it has no plans to roll back the proposed 0.4% Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions exceeding ₹2,000, stating the move aims to support domestic payment operators.
Tata Sons Governance: Tensions surfaced at Tata Sons following Noel Tata’s opposition to N. Chandrasekaran’s tenure extension, warning against steps toward a public listing.
Sports & Education
Asian Games 2026 Contingent: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports approved a 503-member athlete contingent (269 men, 234 women) across 36 disciplines for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
Delhi University Elections: Voting commenced for the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) elections across North and South campuses under tight security.