India News Roundup | Kerala to declare 'Green Tourism Destinations', 1st confirmed Mpox case & more

Kerala to designate 25 'Green Tourism Destinations' in a sustainability push, India reports its first confirmed mpox case, Apple slashes iPhone 15 and 14 prices following the iPhone 16 launch, and more. Find the latest updates in this India news roundup.

In a major step towards sustainability, Kerala is set to transform 25 key tourist spots into ‘Green Tourism Destinations.’ This initiative falls under the 'Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam' campaign, which aims to make Kerala a garbage-free state by March 30, 2025.

The effort focuses on enhancing sustainable waste management, promoting hygiene, and conserving the environment at these popular tourist sites.

India has reported its first confirmed case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox), as per a statement from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The infected individual tested positive for the same strain seen in the 2022 outbreak, which is less virulent compared to the strain currently causing concern globally. The ministry assured the public that there is no widespread risk at this time.

With the introduction of the iPhone 16 series, Apple has significantly reduced the prices of its previous models. The iPhone 15 now starts at ₹69,900, a drop from its previous price of ₹79,900, while the iPhone 15 Plus is now available for ₹79,900, down from ₹89,900.

The iPhone 14 is now priced at ₹59,900, a reduction of ₹10,000, and the iPhone 14 Plus is now selling for ₹69,900.

The GST Council has announced a reduction in the tax rate on certain cancer drugs and helicopter travel on a 'seat-share basis' to 5%. Additionally, the tax on namkeen snacks has been lowered from 18% to 12%.

The council also approved a tax exemption for research and development activities funded by both private and public sources, including universities that receive income tax exemptions.

In response to escalating violence in Manipur, an indefinite curfew has been enforced in the districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, and Thoubal, starting from 11 AM on the 10th of September.

The decision follows a day of intense student protests in the Imphal Valley, demanding peace in the conflict-stricken state. Essential services, including health care, power, and media personnel, are exempt from the curfew.

Air India Express, the low-cost airline of the Air India group, is set to eliminate business class seats from its fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The airline plans to transition these planes to an all-economy configuration starting next year, according to a senior official.