Here are the top national and international news updates for October 4, covering key developments in politics, economy, diplomacy, and global events.

NATIONAL NEWS

1. BJP AND JDU TO SHARE SEATS EQUALLY

The BJP and JD(U) are likely to contest an equal number of seats in the upcoming Bihar elections. Talks between NDA allies, including LJP and HAM, indicate efforts to project unity and avoid seat-sharing disputes.

2. HARYANA ADGP DIES BY SUICIDE

Haryana’s Additional Director General of Police Y S Poonan allegedly shot himself at his Chandigarh residence. Senior officials have ordered an enquiry as colleagues expressed shock over the officer’s sudden death.

3. STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

A recent survey revealed that three in five students in India’s major cities face anxiety or mental health challenges. Experts blame academic pressure, social media, and lack of counselling support for the rising concern.

4. MONSOON DELAY AND CYCLONE ALERT

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a delay in monsoon withdrawal and warned of Cyclone Shakti forming over the Arabian Sea. States like Gujarat and Maharashtra are on alert for heavy rainfall and flash floods.

5. EDUCATION MINISTRY BACKS ZOHO OFFICE

The Education Ministry has made Zoho Office mandatory for official use to promote indigenous digital tools. The move aims to reduce dependence on foreign software and encourage ‘Made in India’ solutions in schools and universities.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

1. HAMAS AND ISRAEL CEASEFIRE TALKS

Hamas said it is working to remove barriers to implementing a US-backed ceasefire plan with Israel. Mediators in Qatar and Egypt are pushing for a lasting truce amid ongoing Gaza violence.

2. PAKISTAN TERROR ALLIANCE EXPOSED

A new report revealed that Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba and the Islamic State Khorasan group have formed an alliance under ISI support. The move raises fears of renewed cross-border terrorism in South Asia.

3. EVEREST TREKKERS EVACUATION NEAR END

Nepalese authorities said the evacuation of trekkers stranded on Mount Everest after bad weather will conclude soon. Helicopters have rescued dozens from high-altitude camps over recent days.

4. TRAIN BLAST IN PAKISTAN

The Jaffar Express was targeted again in Balochistan by an IED blast, leaving several injured and one dead. The attack is part of a series of violent incidents hitting Pakistan’s railway network.

5. US STUDENT VISAS DROP SHARPLY

Indian student visas to the US fell by 44 percent as the Trump administration tightened immigration rules. Analysts say longer visa processing times and stricter checks have caused a steep decline in enrolments.

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