India news highlights for October 24, 2026: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar underscored India’s partnership with Africa, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated two rail sections in Madhya Pradesh, and the Centre warned healthcare facilities against reusing single-use medical devices. Other key updates include India-supported projects in Bhutan, women’s participation in sports and India Chem 2026.
Jaishankar Highlights India-Africa Partnership
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar said India-Africa relations are built on shared history, common aspirations and South-South solidarity. He made the remarks during an interaction with Heads of Mission from African countries in New Delhi.
The statement highlights the emphasis India places on cooperation with African nations and their shared development priorities.
Ashwini Vaishnaw Inaugurates Two Railway Sections in Madhya Pradesh
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the Satna–Devendranagar and Rewa–Churhat rail sections under the Lalitpur–Singrauli Railway Project. He also flagged off a new passenger train service between Devendranagar and Churhat through video conferencing.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav attended the event, according to the report.
DGHS Warns Hospitals Against Reusing Single-Use Medical Devices
The Director General of Health Services (DGHS) has warned public and private healthcare facilities against reusing single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items.
In a letter to the chief secretaries, health secretaries and directors of health services of states and Union Territories, the DGHS raised concerns over the reuse of these products. The warning places renewed focus on patient safety and healthcare infection-control practices.
India-Supported Community Projects Inaugurated in Bhutan
Fifteen community development projects supported by the Indian government were inaugurated in Mongar district in eastern Bhutan.
India’s Deputy Chief of Mission, Aniket Govind Mandavgane, and district officials participated in the inauguration. The projects reflect ongoing India-Bhutan cooperation in community development.
Raksha Khadse Calls for More Opportunities for Women in Sports
Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse emphasised the need to expand opportunities for women across the sporting ecosystem, including grassroots participation, coaching, high-performance competition and leadership.
She was speaking at the All-Women Coaches Course under the All India initiative referenced in the report. Her remarks focused on improving women’s participation and representation across different levels of sport.
Amit Shah Chairs Security Review Meeting in Delhi
Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a security review meeting at the Delhi Police Headquarters. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and senior Delhi Police officials were present.
The meeting brought senior political and police leadership together for a review of security matters in the national capital. The report did not specify further details of the discussions.
J.P. Nadda Pays Tribute to Kedar Nath Sahani
Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda paid tribute to former Delhi BJP president and former governor Kedar Nath Sahani on his birth centenary.
Addressing an event in New Delhi, Nadda described Sahani as a multifaceted personality and said his life and political vision offered valuable lessons.
Haryana to Honour Asian Games and Asian Para Games Athletes
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will host a state-level felicitation ceremony on October 30 at Bhim Stadium in Bhiwani.
Athletes from Haryana who participated in or won medals at the Asian Games and Asian Para Games 2026 will be honoured. The ceremony is expected to include cash awards and government recognition.
India Chem 2026 Concludes in Mumbai
The 14th edition of India Chem 2026 concluded in Mumbai under the theme “Advantage Bharat: An Emerging Global Chemicals Hub.”
Organised jointly by the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the event provided a platform for discussions on the chemicals industry and India’s position in the global market.
