Daily Morning Brief - 9 June - Top News updates from India, Odisha, World and Economy

INDIA

1. Ujjwala beneficiaries will receive 4 LPG cylinders instead of 9.

The Centre has revised provisions under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, reducing the number of subsidised LPG cylinders available annually from nine to four. Beneficiaries will continue receiving a ₹300 subsidy per cylinder, aligning assistance with average household consumption patterns.

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2. 20 TMC MPs likely to join the NDA.

A major political development is unfolding in West Bengal, with reports suggesting that 20 Trinamool Congress MPs may align with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance. The move could significantly alter political equations and strengthen the NDA's position in Parliament.

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3. India currently possesses 190 nuclear warheads.

According to the latest SIPRI Yearbook, India's estimated nuclear arsenal has reached 190 warheads. The report highlights India's continued nuclear modernisation efforts and evolving strategic priorities amid regional security concerns involving both Pakistan and China.

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4. Consensual physical relations between two adults before marriage do not indicate loose character, says the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court has ruled that consensual relationships between unmarried adults cannot be treated as evidence of poor moral character. The judgment reinforces constitutional values of personal liberty, dignity, privacy, and individual choice in modern society.

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World

1. A U.S. Federal Court dismisses Trump's H-1B visa fee rule.

A federal court in the United States struck down a Trump-era rule imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas. The court held that the executive branch lacked legal authority to impose such charges without congressional approval.

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2. A 7.8-magnitude earthquake strikes the Philippines.

A powerful 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck near the southern Philippines, causing widespread damage and triggering tsunami alerts. Emergency teams launched rescue and relief operations while authorities assessed casualties, infrastructure losses, and disruptions to essential services.

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3. Iran and Israel exchange military attacks.

Military exchanges between Iran and Israel have intensified tensions across the Middle East. The escalating conflict has raised concerns about regional stability, global energy supplies, and disruptions to international shipping routes passing through strategic maritime corridors.

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Economy

1. Investors lose ₹5 lakh crore amid stock market decline.

Indian stock markets witnessed a sharp correction due to geopolitical uncertainties and weak global sentiment. The sell-off resulted in an estimated loss of more than ₹5 lakh crore in investor wealth across major benchmark indices.

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2. Gold prices reduced.

Domestic gold prices witnessed a modest correction after touching record highs. The revised rates stand at ₹1,39,050 for 22-carat gold and ₹1,51,690 for 24-carat gold, reflecting profit-booking and changing market sentiment among investors.

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Odisha

1. Finance Commission issues guidelines on Panchayat tax; rural households may have to pay up to ₹1,200 annually.

The Finance Commission has recommended measures to strengthen Panchayats' financial resources through local taxation. Under the proposed guidelines, rural households may contribute up to ₹1,200 annually to support infrastructure development and public service delivery.

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2. Government approves a 5,500-acre land bank for tourism development.

The Odisha Government has approved a dedicated 5,500-acre land bank to promote tourism projects across the state. The initiative aims to attract private investment, expand hospitality infrastructure, generate employment, and accelerate tourism-driven economic growth.