Airline operations at the Delhi airport, the country’s busiest airport, were slowly returning to normalcy on Saturday morning, a day after a glitch with the air traffic control system delayed more than 800 flights.

The technical problem with the Automatic Message Switching System (AMSS), which supports the air traffic control’s flight planning process, continued for over 15 hours from around 5:45 am on Friday before the Airports Authority of India (AAI) said at around 9 pm that the issue has been addressed.

The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in the national capital that has four runways, handles more than 1,500 flight movements daily.

Delhi airport operator DIAL on Saturday morning said the technical issue which affected the AMSS is gradually improving.

“Airline operations at Delhi Airport are returning to normal, and all concerned authorities are working diligently to minimise any inconvenience caused,” it said in a post on X.

Apart from over 800 flights that faced delays, some services were also cancelled on Friday, impacting hundreds of passengers.

The country’s largest airline IndiGo on Saturday morning said the airport operator and Air Traffic Control (ATC) teams were working on priority to fully restore systems and stabilise operations.

“The situation is expected to be normalised over the next few hours. During this period, some departure and arrival timings may continue to be adjusted,” it said in a post on X.

Information available on flight tracking website Flightradar24.com showed that over 200 flights were delayed at the airport, including arrivals and departures, on Saturday morning.

It could not be immediately ascertained whether the flight delays were only due to the AMSS issue which is gradually improving.

While the AMSS started facing the technical issue Thursday late afternoon, the outage with the system happened at around 5:45 am on Friday, following which air traffic controllers had to prepare flight plans manually, according to sources.

The AAI, which provides navigation and other services, had also deployed additional manpower to prepare the flight plans manually which is a time-consuming process.

On Friday evening, the AAI said it has addressed the “technical issue in the AMSS, which caused delays in processing flight plan messages”.

The issue was detected in the IP-based AMSS system on November 6.

“The OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) was engaged, and additional staff were deployed to manually process Flight Plans for the Air Traffic Control system to ensure uninterrupted and safe air traffic operations immediately.

“A team of ECIL officials and AAI personnel is still on site. The AMSS systems are up and functional now. Due to some backlogs, there may be some delays in the normal functioning of automated operations, but the situation will be normal soon,” the AAI had said. (Agencies)

At least 100 flights were delayed on Friday morning at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) due to a technical issue with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, according to Delhi Airport.

Passengers have been advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates.

In a post on X, Delhi Airport shared, “Due to a technical issue with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, flight operations at IGIA are experiencing delays. Their team is actively working with all stakeholders, including DIAL, to resolve it at the earliest.”

“Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused,” the post read.

Air traffic control (ATC) refers to a ground-based service in which controllers manage and guide the movement of aircraft both on the ground and within controlled airspace.

Meanwhile, earlier, Air India introduced a “Flexi Contract for Pilots,” a new work model that allows flight crew to choose shorter duty patterns while maintaining operational smoothness. The airline says the plan aims to match pilots’ preferences with roster needs, focusing on work-life balance without compromising efficiency.

Under the policy, Line Pilots and Line Training Captains on A320, B777 and A350 fleets are eligible. Junior First Officers, Type Rating Instructors and Direct Entry pilots are not. The contract offers two fixed patterns: for wide-body aircraft, 15 days on and 15 days off; for narrow-body aircraft, 20 days on and 10 days off. Annual leave aligns with these rosters–eight privilege and four sick leaves for wide-body pilots, and 12 privilege plus six sick leaves for narrow-body colleagues. The contract tenure will be 12 months, which can be extended at the company’s discretion. After the contract ends, pilots return to their original terms.

Air India states that selection is made through an Expression of Interest process, with seniority and operational needs guiding the final list. An exit needs three months’ notice. If a pilot is selected for a fleet or command upgrade, the pilot returns to the original contract from the start of training; if an upgrade is refused, the existing career policy on freezes applies. The company may also revert a pilot to the old contract if required, and this does not change pay terms that applied before switching to flexi terms. (Agencies)

‘Vande Mataram’, the national song of India, continues to symbolise the emotional consciousness and unity of the country’s people, President Droupadi Murmu said on Friday.

On the occasion of the song’s 150th anniversary, “let all of us countrymen take this firm resolve that we will keep Mother India endowed with ‘Sujala’ (good water), ‘sufala’ (good or fine fruit) and ‘sukhda’ (bestowed with happiness), in accordance with the spirit of this song. Vande Mataram,” Murmu said in a post on X in Hindi.

The president also recounted how, in the nineteenth century, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay composed Vande Mataram against the backdrop of the Sannyasi rebellion against British rule, which, since the 1905 Swadeshi movement, has become a source of inspiration.

“Since then, this song of reverence to Mother India has remained a proclamation of the emotional consciousness and unity of our countrymen, and it will continue to be so,” the president said, adding that after independence, the country reverently adopted it as the national song. November 7, this year, marks the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, which translates to “Mother, I bow to thee.” This composition, an enduring anthem, has inspired countless generations of freedom fighters and nation builders, standing as a lasting emblem of India’s national identity and collective spirit, according to an official statement.

Vande Mataram was first published in the literary journal Bangadarshan on November 7, 1875, and was set to music by Rabindranath Tagore. (Agencies)

In a major relief to hundreds of homebuyers, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has restored flats, commercial units, and plots worth ₹175 crore to more than 200 people who had been waiting for possession of their homes for over 12 years.

The restored assets belong to the Royal Rajvilas (RRV) project in Udaipur, Rajasthan, which includes 354 unsold flats, 17 commercial units, and 2 plots. The project’s present market value is estimated at around ₹175 crore, the ED said in an official statement on Tuesday.

The case stems from a money laundering probe against Bharat Bomb and others, accused of defrauding Syndicate Bank (now Canara Bank) of ₹1,267.79 crore between 2011 and 2016. In April 2019, the ED had attached properties worth ₹535 crore in the case, including ₹83.51 crore worth of unsold and unregistered assets of Udaipur Entertainment World Private Limited (UEWPL).

Following legal challenges, the company was admitted to insolvency before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Mumbai. The NCLT approved a resolution plan in February 2022 and vacated the ED’s attachment order. However, the ED was not made a party to the proceedings, a point later highlighted by the Rajasthan High Court, which observed that the ED had “suffered” due to non-impleadment.

Subsequently, the new management of UEWPL approached the Supreme Court, which directed both parties to reach a consensus to protect the interests of genuine homebuyers. Acting on this direction, the ED verified the list of affected buyers and filed a No Objection Certificate (NOC) before the apex court for restitution of the attached properties.

In its order dated October 10, the Supreme Court allowed the restoration of properties under Section 8(8) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) to the successful resolution applicant for the sole benefit of the genuine homebuyers.

The ED described its approach as “proactive” and aimed at achieving a “harmonious” solution without compromising the objectives of the PMLA.

The Supreme Court appreciated the ED’s role, stating:

“We place on record our appreciation for the efforts made by the learned counsel for the parties and the Directorate of Enforcement in restoring the attached properties to secure the interests of genuine and innocent home buyers.”

The apex court clarified that the order was passed on the “peculiar facts” of the case and would not serve as a precedent in future matters.

This judgment marks the end of a 12-year ordeal for 213 homebuyers and concludes over seven years of litigation between UEWPL and the ED.

Bridging Ancient Wisdom with Modern Science: My Vaastu Talk at BHU

It’s not every day that one gets the honor of speaking at one of India’s most respected universities. I felt truly blessed when I was invited as a Speaker at the International Jyotish & Vaastu Conference organized by the Department of Astrology, Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Sharing the stage with scholars and researchers who dedicate their lives to understanding India’s ancient sciences was a deeply humbling experience.

This event was more than just a conference—it was a bridge connecting ancient Vedic wisdom with the evolving understanding of modern science.

The Theme: Scientific Analysis of Indian Vaastu Shastra

My talk focused on “The Scientific Analysis of Indian Vaastu Shastra,” a subject close to my heart and central to my work at Alternative Astro24.

Vaastu Shastra is often seen as a spiritual or traditional belief system, but its foundation lies in logic, balance, and energy dynamics that align perfectly with modern environmental sciences.

* The placement of rooms, entry points, and directions affects not only energy flow but also mood, health, and productivity.

* Many Vaastu principles correlate closely with modern concepts of architecture, solar orientation, and magnetic energy balance.

* Through practical demonstrations and real-life case studies, I explained how these principles can be applied effectively in modern homes and offices.

The aim of this session was to show that Vaastu is not superstition—it is a living science of space and energy that evolves with human understanding.

Connecting Ancient Knowledge with Contemporary Living

At BHU, surrounded by intellectuals and spiritual practitioners, I found the perfect platform to unveil how Vaastu Shastra remains relevant in today’s technology-driven world.

The ancient sages may not have used scientific terminology, but their observations were remarkably precise.

* Energy Flow: The concept of Prana (life energy) aligns with modern ideas about energy efficiency and sustainable design.

* Balance & Harmony: Whether it’s balancing elements like water and fire or designing open spaces, these ideas resemble principles in environmental psychology and biophilic design.

* Health Impact: Balanced spaces contribute to emotional well-being, much like how architecture today emphasizes mental health through natural lighting and ventilation.

By bridging these old and new perspectives, we can build homes and workplaces that nourish not just the body but also the soul.

A Proud Moment for Alternative Astro24

Representing Alternative Astro24 at such a prestigious platform was a matter of immense pride.

Our mission has always been to bring authenticity, clarity, and modern relevance to Vedic sciences like astrology, numerology, and Vaastu.

Through Alternative Astro24, we aim to:

* Educate people on scientific and practical aspects of Vaastu.

* Help individuals align their spaces for better energy balance and success.

* Preserve India’s sacred knowledge while adapting it for modern lifestyles.

The warm response from attendees reaffirmed that the world is eager to rediscover these traditional sciences through a logical lens.

Meeting Scholars and Spiritual Practitioners

One of the most enriching aspects of the BHU conference was interacting with scholars, students, and astrologers from around the world. We discussed the parallels between Jyotish (astrology) and modern astronomy, as well as the universal energy principles that guide both disciplines.

Such gatherings remind us that knowledge grows through sharing. The positive exchange of ideas helped refine my understanding and inspired me to keep pushing the boundaries of how ancient sciences can be integrated into modern living.

Continuing the Journey of Vedic Wisdom

As I look back on my experience at BHU, I feel immense gratitude toward the university and everyone who contributed to the event.

This platform has motivated me to continue researching and sharing evidence-based insights on Vaastu, astrology, numerology, and energy sciences.

For those seeking guidance in harmonizing spaces and improving life through ancient yet relevant methods, Alternative Astro24 is always here to help.

Connect with Dr. Paraash M Sarmah

* Website: www.astroalternative24.com | www.alternativeastro24.co.in

* Appointment Number: +91 9101643180

* Facebook: Dr Paraash Official

* Instagram: @alternativeastro24

* YouTube: Alternative Astro24 with Dr Paraash

* Google Maps: https://g.co/kgs/ri6MB2J

Conclusion

The International Jyotish & Vaastu Conference at BHU was not just a professional milestone—it was a reminder of India’s timeless potential to blend ancient spirituality with modern rationality.

Through such events, we reaffirm our belief that Vaastu Shastra is not confined to tradition but is a continually evolving science that can transform lives.

In this journey of connecting the past and the present, I remain committed to spreading Vedic wisdom through science, helping individuals and families achieve balance, prosperity, and peace.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has restored flats, commercial units and plots worth Rs 175 crore to more than 200 homebuyers who had been waiting to get possession of their dream home for over 12 years, the agency said.

The unsold inventory of 354 flats, 17 commercial units and two plots belong to a project named Royal Rajvilas (RRV) in Rajasthan’s Udaipur.

The project’s present market value is about Rs 175 crore, the ED said in a statement issued on Tuesday.

The case pertains to a money laundering investigation against an accused named Bharat Bomb, apart from some others, who are alleged to have cheated the Syndicate Bank (now Canara Bank) to the tune of Rs 1267.79 crore between 2011 and 2016.

The ED had attached properties worth Rs 535 crore in this case in April, 2019 including assets of Rs 83.51 crore in the form of unsold/unregistered inventory of a company named Udaipur Entertainment World Private Limited (UEWPL).

Multiple cases were filed against this attachment order and the company (UEWPL) was later admitted for insolvency before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

The resolution plan of the UEWPL was approved by the NCLT, Mumbai in February, 2022 as it also vacated the ED attachment order of April, 2019 (in respect of the attachment of properties of UEWPL).

“It is pertinent to mention that ED was not made a party in the proceedings before the NCLT,” the agency said.

Later, the matter went to the Rajasthan High Court and after multiple hearings it ordered that the ED had “suffered” in the case as it was not impleaded as a party in the proceedings before the NCLT.

Soon after, the new management of UEWPL approached the Supreme Court challenging the Rajasthan HC order.

The apex court directed both parties to arrive at a consensus so as to “protect” the interest of the bona-fide homebuyers, who had invested their money in the project and could not get possession of their units/flats, due to aforesaid legal proceedings pending before different judicial forums, as per the ED.

“In view of the directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court to protect the interest of the bona-fide homebuyers, the ED approached the Resolution Professional and new management of UEWPL seeking the details of all the homebuyers whose claims were admitted before the NCLT, Mumbai,” it said.

The ED scrutinised the details of the homebuyers and submitted a ‘No Objection Certificate’ before the SC for restitution (restoration) of the attached properties for benefit of bona-fide homebuyers except some of the assets.

It said the agency took “proactive” approach to arrive at a “harmonious” solution without compromising the objectives of the PMLA and in interest of the 213 homebuyers who were suffering due to the “prolonged” litigation.

In view of the affidavit made by the ED, the SC issued an order on October 10 “wherein the attached properties, having a present market value of about Rs 175 crore now stand restituted under Section 8 (8) of the PMLA to the Successful Resolution Applicant of Udaipur Entertainment World Private Limited for the sole benefit of the genuine and innocent homebuyers.” This, the ED said, brings to an end the the plight of 213 innocent homebuyers who had been suffering for more than 12 years after putting their hard earned money and the protracted litigation of over seven years between UEWPL and the ED.

“The Hon’ble Supreme Court has passed the order on the peculiar facts of the case without going into the merits and has also observed that this shall not be treated as a precedent and the questions of law shall remain open to be decided in an appropriate case,” the ED said.

The SC lauded the role of the ED saying “…we place on record our appreciation for the efforts made by the learned counsel for the parties and the DoE (Directorate of Enforcement or ED) in restoring the attached properties to secure the interests of genuine and innocent home buyers.” (Agencies)