India News & Trends

EC requires pre-certification on all platforms and tightens regulations on digital ads ahead of state elections.

EC requires pre-certification on all platforms and tightens regulations on digital ads ahead of state elections.

With the announcement of the Assembly election schedule for Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry, as well as by-elections in six states, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has implemented a more comprehensive regulatory framework to control political advertising, emphasizing digital platforms, transparency, and the control of misinformation.A pre-certification requirement for all political advertisements in electronic and online media is at the heart of the directive. The action is a reflection of the Commission's effort to stay up with the quickly changing political landscape, where voter perception is now significantly shaped by social media amplification and digital outreach.Before distributing commercials, all political parties, candidates, and affiliated organizations must first receive approval from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMCs), according to the new regulations. This holds true for a variety of digital channels, such as social media platforms, e-papers, bulk SMS, voice messaging, and public audio-visual displays, in addition to more conventional electronic media like radio and television.While recognized political parties can apply for certification through state-level committees, candidates and individuals must apply to district-level MCMCs. To examine disputed rulings, an appeals process has also been established, with each state's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) serving as its head. The Commission has effectively extended regulatory authority deep into the digital ecosystem by making it plain that no political advertisement may be published or distributed on internet-based platforms without prior approval.In addition to certification, MCMCs have been assigned to monitor suspected "paid news" situations more closely, which has long been a problem in Indian elections. When content is discovered to be promotional but presented as editorial, the committees are supposed to keep a careful eye on media outputs and take appropriate action. Candidates are now required to disclose all official social media accounts in their nomination papers as part of a concurrent push for transparency. In online campaigning, where unofficial or proxy accounts have frequently been used to reinforce narratives without credit, this rule aims to ensure traceability and responsibility.    

Published 21 Mar 2026 05:42 PM

Owning your uniqueness is empowerment Mona Jain advocates for genuine leadership

Owning your uniqueness is empowerment Mona Jain advocates for genuine leadership

At the 7th Women Disruptors Summit & Awards 2026, which was organized by Adgully, industry professionals came together to celebrate women's accomplishments and discuss how to encourage future leaders, with a focus on gender parity and inclusive leadership.A keynote speech by Mona Jain, President of Revenue Growth & Business Development at ABP Network, was one of the summit's highlights. Speaking on the topic of "Empowering Women, Empowering Change," Jain offered a very intimate analysis of resiliency, self-assurance, and the transformational potential of women supporting one another. Jain began her speech on a contemplative tone, highlighting the subtle but significant influence of self-assured female leadership in the workplace. "When a woman leads confidently in the workplace, she creates opportunities for other women to follow." "At that point, empowering women turns into empowering change," she stated. Jain acknowledged that her mother had shaped her perspective and linked her confidence in independence and leadership to her childhood.the same attitude toward my kid and the young ladies I work with," she said. She acknowledged that there were difficulties along the way in the corporate world. Like many women pursuing leadership roles, Jain was open about her periods of uncertainty and emotional exhaustion. There were numerous times when I struggled and doubted myself. There were moments when I wanted to give up and take a simpler route. However, I persevered.  

Published 17 Mar 2026 05:26 PM

IPL 2026 Cultural Toolkit for Brands Folk Frequency Releases

IPL 2026 Cultural Toolkit for Brands Folk Frequency Releases

BARC India and Nielsen have jointly announced the launch of BARC | Nielsen ONE Ads, a first-of-its-kind cross-media advertising measurement solution that combines digital and linear television data into a single, unified framework, marking a significant milestone for the Indian advertising sector. The absence of a unified, single-source view of campaign effectiveness across screens is a persistent problem in the advertising ecosystem that the new approach seeks to solve. In order to maximize media spending, marketers and agencies need more integrated measuring solutions as media consumption continues to split across platforms and devices.BARC | Nielsen ONE Ads integrates Nielsen ONE Ads' digital measuring capabilities with BARC's linear television viewership statistics. Advertisers can assess actual campaign reach and frequency across the whole media landscape thanks to the platform's deduplicated view of audiences across various screens, including Linear TV, Connected TV (CTV), Mobile, and Computer/Desktop. JioHotstar will be the first platform to use the framework, starting with the ICC Men's T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026. The partnership is a major step toward measuring premium internet and television content across platforms. Further industry-wide cross-screen coverage may be possible in the future with further involvement from other broadcasters.  

Published 09 Mar 2026 05:20 PM

How CTV can prevent repeating the ad errors of linear TV for living room monetization

How CTV can prevent repeating the ad errors of linear TV for living room monetization

Connected TV live sports are about to enter a crucial period of recalibration. The medium is plagued by an old broadcast reflex: more advertisements equal more money, despite its promises of scale, accuracy, and living-room supremacy. A fundamental concern for the ecosystem is raised by the growing need to profit from every stop as live matches draw enormous concurrent audiences. To what extent can ad loads be increased before fandom becomes transactional and viewer immersion breaks down? Tolerance is a delicate currency in an environment where control and choice are paramount. This unique research explores what sustainability actually means during live sports by bringing together voices from the CTV, ad-tech, platform, and agency sectors. Beyond simple inventory counts, topics like experience design, temporal intelligence, creative ecosystems, and attention economics are covered. The emphasis is on creating a model where monetization does not come at the expense of loyalty, taking into account factors like the unpredictable nature of live broadcasts and the potential to increase interaction after the final whistle. The fundamental conflict is obvious: how well the ecosystem learns to use the screen, rather than how much advertising it can accommodate, will determine the direction of CTV sports in the future.  

Published 24 Feb 2026 05:42 PM

NMDC Appoints Krishna Kumar Thakur as Director (Personnel)

NMDC Appoints Krishna Kumar Thakur as Director (Personnel)

Krishna Kumar Thakur, an officer from the 1998 batch, has taken over as Director (Personnel) at NMDC Limited. The biggest producer of iron ore in India is NMDC. He began working as an Indian Railway Personnel Service official. He has worked for Indian Railways and other public sector organizations for more than 20 years in human resource management.The appointment is a significant step toward strengthening the organization's HR leadership. As part of determined attempts to create a more effective and people-centered system, he formally assumed leadership on March 20, 2026. He is anticipated to play a significant part in raising employee engagement and productivity because of his solid background in HR administration and policy execution.He brings extensive experience in managing human resources in the public sector to his role as Director (Personnel). Additionally, he has worked in important railway divisions including Mumbai, Bhopal, and Solapur. He oversaw the hiring of about 12,000 workers while serving as Chairman of Western Railway's Railway Recruitment Cell. This innovation demonstrates his proficiency in workforce planning and large-scale employment. His excellent academic record strongly supports his qualifications for the Director (Personnel) position. He holds a postgraduate degree in literature from Tilka Manjhi University in Bhagalpur. Additionally, he has a PGDM in Human Resources from one of India's top universities, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences.He held important positions in important public sector institutions before to joining. He also contributed to an international rail operations project in Saudi Arabia at RITES Limited. Additionally, he oversaw Konkan Railway Corporation Limited's HR department. wherein he simplified HR regulations. He later implemented improvements like standardized incentive programs while serving as Director (HR) at BHEL.  

Published 21 Mar 2026 05:56 PM

Arun Mammen was re-elected as the chairman of ATMA.

Arun Mammen was re-elected as the chairman of ATMA.

Arun Mammen has been re-elected as the Chairman of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA). MRF Ltd.'s managing director and vice chairman is Arun Mammen. This announcement, which was released on March 16, 2026, highlights a shift in leadership within the association that represents the automotive tire industry in India.The Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association's leadership will continue with Arun Mammen's reelection as ATMA Chairman. Mr. Arun Mammen has long been involved in debates on industry policy and the tyre manufacturing sector in India as the Vice Chairman and Managing Director of MRF Ltd. Arun Mammen is anticipated to lead the association in tackling a number of industry issues, including raw material pricing, technological advancement, and global competitiveness, under the ATMA leadership 2026.Rajarshi Moitra has also been appointed by the ATMA association. As the new Vice Chairman of ATMA, she is the Managing Director of Bridgestone India Pvt Ltd. Her selection will be in line with the association's plan to include both domestic and foreign tire manufacturers in leadership roles within the industry. Rajarshi Moitra's leadership position at Bridgestone India allows him to provide years of experience from the global tire sector.  automotive industry.Sanjay Chatterjee's appointment as Director General of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association is another shift in the organization's leadership. He will now oversee the executive operations of the association after holding the position of Assistant Director General. After serving in the leadership position, Rajiv Budhraja is set to retire on March 31, 2026. Sanjay Chatterjee will take his place.  

Published 17 Mar 2026 05:52 PM

According to FT, Meta reduces stock rewards for the majority of employees by 5%.

According to FT, Meta reduces stock rewards for the majority of employees by 5%.

As CEO Mark Zuckerberg invests billions of dollars in its artificial intelligence goals, Meta cut the annual payout of stock options for the majority of its employees by roughly 5%, according to a Financial Times report on Thursday.In the fierce AI race in Silicon Valley, Meta and other Big Tech companies are vying with one another to outbuild one another with enormous data centers. In January, the social media corporation stated that it anticipated spending between $115 billion and $135 billion on capital projects in 2026.According to the report, which cited people familiar with the situation, Meta has reduced equity-based incentives for the majority of its employees for the second consecutive year. According to the FT story, the corporation stunned some employees by reducing the stock reward by about 10% last year.The entity incorporates Meta's ambitious "metaverse" wager, which has resulted in losses of about $70 billion since 2021. According to President Donald Trump, Meta is investing $50 billion to develop a number of gigawatt-scale data centers across the United States, including one in rural Louisiana.  

Published 20 Feb 2026 01:03 PM

A former secretary of consumer affairs has been appointed to a key USISPF position.

A former secretary of consumer affairs has been appointed to a key USISPF position.

The appointment of former Consumer Affairs Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh as Chair of the Global Value Chains Committee of the US–India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) on February 9, 2026, marked a major step forward for India-US economic interaction. The action underscores the increased focus on reliable supply chains and reliable alliances.Selection of the Chair of USISPF's Global Value Chains Committee Rohit Kumar Singh, a former secretary of consumer affairs, has been named chair of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum's Global Value Chains Committee. Singh, who has extensive administrative experience and a history of change, puts Indian policy knowledge at the center of debates about the global value chain in his new position. Rohit Kumar Singh's Identity A 1989-batch IAS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, Rohit Kumar Singh has a wealth of knowledge in economic governance. He was instrumental in reforming India's consumer protection laws while serving as Secretary of Consumer Affairs. His leadership earned praise for enhancing responsiveness and openness by fusing technology-driven governance with regulatory reform. In his new worldwide job, he is well-positioned to combine policy, industry, and international cooperation thanks to his administrative background.Why USISPF Is Important and What It Is Through cooperation between governments, corporations, and thought leaders, the US–India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) is a premier forum that enhances strategic and economic connections between the US and India. It operates in a variety of industries, including supply chains, trade, technology, energy, and defense. At a time when global trade is fragmented and under geopolitical stress, USISPF is essential in facilitating conversation and coordinating policy agendas.  

Published 10 Feb 2026 05:46 PM

Day 3 box office receipts for Dhurandhar The Revenge [LIVE] The Ranveer Singh and Rakesh Bedi film brings in Rs 270 crore, while worldwide receipts reach Rs 333 crore.

Day 3 box office receipts for Dhurandhar The Revenge [LIVE] The Ranveer Singh and Rakesh Bedi film brings in Rs 270 crore, while worldwide receipts reach Rs 333 crore.

Mumbai, Mar 20 (PTI) Aditya Dhar's "Dhurandhar 2," which stars Ranveer Singh as an undercover agent in Pakistan, shattered numerous records to have one of the greatest debuts in Indian cinema, with an expected first-day revenue of over Rs 100 crore. According to preliminary estimates by trade tracking website Sacnilk, the movie made over Rs 43 crore from paid previews on Wednesday—the largest amount ever for an Indian film—and Rs 102.55 crore on its opening day on Thursday, bringing its total earnings in India to almost Rs 145 crore.The film has already topped the opening day receipts of recent Hindi blockbusters, including Shah Rukh Khan's "Jawan" (Rs 75 crore) and "Pathaan" (Rs 57 crore), as well as the horror-comedy "Stree 2" (Rs 54 crore). The makers are anticipated to update the official figures later in the day. Given the excitement around the release of the second half following the enormous success of "Dhurandhar," the movie's global box office receipts are predicted to surpass Rs 200 crore.With nearly 15 lakh tickets sold, including paid previews, "Dhurandhar: The Revenge" debuted in theaters on Wednesday. It is anticipated to outperform the first "Dhurandhar," which made Rs 1,300 crore globally following its debut in December 2025."Dhurandhar: The Revenge," which was produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Lokesh Dhar, stars Ranveer Singh as Jaskirat Singh Rangi, a young guy who changes into Hamza Ali Mazari, a clandestine agent working deep within Pakistan. The sequel traces the beginnings of the guy beneath the cover while charting Mazari's ascent in the Karachi underworld. The sequel, which was released in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam, also stars actors R Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Sanjay Dutt, Sara Arjun, and Rakesh Bedi. BK RB RB PTI  

Published 21 Mar 2026 05:49 PM

The duration of Dhurandhar 2 is three hours and fifty-five minutes. In viral memes, fans are packing their suitcases for a night out.

The duration of Dhurandhar 2 is three hours and fifty-five minutes. In viral memes, fans are packing their suitcases for a night out.

Social media suggests that you might need to bring more than popcorn if you intend to see Dhurandhar: The Revenge in theaters. The internet suggests that a small suitcase, some snacks, and possibly even a pillow could be useful. Thanks to its eye-popping duration, the new spy thriller, directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, has become the focus of a hilarious online meme fest.Social media users have transformed the cinema experience into a full-fledged comedy sketch, with reports indicating that the movie is 3 hours and 55 minutes long (not counting breaks and promotions). Influencers on Instagram have begun sharing videos of themselves getting ready to spend the night at the movies. One popular video shows a bunch of pals rolling their bags out of the house and declaring they are going to see Dhurandhar 2. Another depicts a family packing food supplies with care, as though they were going on a lengthy train ride.The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has banned Dhurandhar: The Revenge, awarding it a "A" (adults only) certificate with an authorized runtime of 232 minutes, or three hours and fifty-two minutes. Compared to the previous movie, Dhurandhar, which ran for around 214 minutes, the sequel is about 30 minutes longer.  

Published 17 Mar 2026 05:42 PM

In a sexual assault case, a Kerala court grants Manjummel Boys director Chidambaram anticipatory bail.

In a sexual assault case, a Kerala court grants Manjummel Boys director Chidambaram anticipatory bail.

Chidambaram S. Poduval, the renowned film director and screenwriter of Manjummel Boys, was granted anticipatory relief on Saturday, March 7, by the District and Sessions Court, Ernakulam. Sri. K.K. Balakrishnan, the District Judge, issued the judgment giving Chidambaram bail on conditions. The prosecution claims that during the first week of May 2022, Chidambaram entered the de facto complainant's bedroom with the intention of offending her modesty and pressing on her breast.Based on the de facto complainant's First Information Statement, the Ernakulam South Police Station registered a crime on February 28, 2026, for offenses covered by Sections 354 [Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty], 354A(1)(i) [Sexual harassment], and 509 [Word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman] IPC.Chidambaram, a renowned director in the Malayalam film industry, claims that he met the de facto complainant for his role in Manjummel Boys during the film's production and filming. He has argued that he acted professionally toward the de facto complaint and that she was the one who initiated a "campaign" to damage his reputation. Additionally, he claims that the complainant accused him of sexual assault and uploaded a clip on her Instagram account. Additionally, he claimed that in December 2025, an interim order prohibiting her from posting defamatory news on any media platform was issued after he filed a damage suit against her at the Bombay High Court. He claims that she fabricated the current case in order to avoid the legal repercussions of releasing derogatory material about him. Chidamabaram emphasized that he had no criminal history and that the case was not reported for four years. There is no need for custodial interrogation and no materials are gathered because the de facto complaint is overseas.  

Published 09 Mar 2026 05:28 PM

Lekin, I never believed in oiling before.Behind her shiny hair, Chitrangada Singh reveals a secret combination.

Lekin, I never believed in oiling before.Behind her shiny hair, Chitrangada Singh reveals a secret combination.

On the podcast Let's Talk for Namitaa, Chitrangada Singh recently talked about her hair care regimen and credited oiling for improving the quality of her hair. "I never used to believe in oiling, lekin bahut farak padta, oiling is very, very important," she said. The quality of your hair has improved since I started using rosemary, pepper mint, almond oil, and teen cheezon ko mix karke mujhe diya hai kisni.IndianExpress.com contacted Dr. Bhawuk Dhir, Consultant Dermatology, PSRI Hospital, to verify the actor's claim. He concurred that oiling has advantages, "but with realistic expectations."According to Dr. Dhir, "regular hair oiling can be scientifically effective, but its impact varies from person to person." He explains that oils don't directly promote the growth of new hair by activating biological growth pathways. The main functions of oils are as protecting and emollients. They protect the hair shaft from friction and environmental harm, prevent breakage, lessen dryness, and seal in moisture," he says. During oil application, a light scalp massage may also promote improved blood circulation. Dr. Dhir continues, "The evidence is stronger for improved texture and reduced damage rather than dramatic hair growth, even though this creates a healthier scalp environment."  

Published 24 Feb 2026 05:56 PM

What becomes more expensive and less expensive following Budget 2026. Check entire list

What becomes more expensive and less expensive following Budget 2026. Check entire list

With the release of the Union Budget 2026, Indian consumers are anticipated to pay more for some items and less for others. As finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman delivered the budget in Parliament today, she spoke about specific commodities on which the government is planning to lower customs duty.She added that the government was thinking about decreasing taxes on a few imports from other nations, which would result in lower prices for Indian customers. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stated during the Budget's presentation in Parliament on Sunday that the Union Budget 2026–27's changes to customs duties will reduce the cost of a number of necessities, such as 17 cancer medications and medications and specialized nutrition used to treat seven uncommon diseases. Duties have also been lowered on microwave oven components, lowering production expenses. The Budget proposed a range of tariff cuts and tax rationalisations targeted at alleviating costs for consumers, exporters and critical sectors. TCS reduced the price of overseas tour packages from 5–20% to 2% with no minimum. Foreign remittances for education and medical care under LRS: TCS cut to 2% from 5% Microwave ovens: Customs duty exemption on selected manufacturing parts Imports for personal use by foreign visitors: Customs duty was reduced from 20% to 10%.Imports for personal use by foreign visitors: Customs duty was reduced from 20% to 10%. Textile and leather exporters: Export realisation time extended to one year, alleviating working capital constraint Cancer and critical disease medicines: Basic customs duty totally waived on 17 pharmaceuticals Foods, medications, and drugs for specific medical needs pertaining to seven uncommon disorders Imported medications and drugs for individual use Essential Parts of Microwave Ovens Components or parts, including engines of aircraftSolar glass ingredients Goods purchased for nuclear power projects Capital products for essential minerals

Published 02 Feb 2026 06:03 PM

GST reform: starting Monday, these goods will be subject to the highest tax. View the complete list

GST reform: starting Monday, these goods will be subject to the highest tax. View the complete list

September 22 GST changes: Under the new tax structure, which goes into effect on Monday, items falling within these categories will be subject to the newly revised highest tax rate of 40% GST. View the items' list here.After its 56th meeting on September 3, 2025, the GST Council, which is led by the Indian federal government, voted to streamline the indirect tax system in India by redesigning the current goods and service tax (GST) slab structure into a "two-tier" system.Indian customers will benefit from a revamped "two-tier" tax structure that goes into effect on Monday, September 22, 2025. Depending on the type of commodity sold in the country, it will be subject to either the 5% or 18% tax band. In India, GST is now imposed in four slabs: 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%. However, the government has since modified these slabs. Many products sold in the Indian economy will see price reductions as a result of the federal government's action; nevertheless, starting Monday, a wide range of products will also be subject to higher consumer taxes. 1. Sin Goods: Generally speaking, sin goods are things that are detrimental to society and health, such as cigarettes and pan masala. Cigarettes, pan masala, beedi, and other tobacco goods including chewing tobacco and gutka, as well as online gaming and gambling, would all be subject to a 40% GST tax starting on Monday, September 22, 2025. 2. Luxury cars: Four-wheelers with an internal combustion engine (ICE) capacity greater than 1,200cc and a length greater than four meters were also placed in a 40% tax level by the GST Council. In the past, the ex-showroom pricing of SUVs and MPVs, which are included in this group, was increased by 28% GST and 22% Cess. 3. Over 350cc two-wheelers: The GST Council raised the tax rate for two-wheelers with engines larger than 350cc from 28% GST and 3% Cess to 40%. Despite the removal of the Cess levy, two-wheelers with engines larger than 350cc will now be subject to a higher tax rate. 4. Soft drinks: The central government raised the GST rate from 28% to 40%, which will result in a price increase for soft drinks and other non-alcoholic beverages like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Fanta, and flavor-infused waters. 5. Items that cost more when you're in the 18% tax bracket: Items that will be subject to GST at the higher 18% slab starting on Monday, September 22, 2025, include dining at restaurants, particularly those with air conditioning and premium outlets; consumer durables like refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners; beauty and grooming services at salons and spas; and high-end smartphones and imported devices.  

Published 23 Sep 2025 01:19 PM

Live Updates on New GST Rates: When GST 2.0 goes into effect, food, cars, and televisions all get cheaper.

Live Updates on New GST Rates: When GST 2.0 goes into effect, food, cars, and televisions all get cheaper.

GST Reforms 2025 List: Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms have become effective today, September 22, marking a historical shift in the country’s indirect taxation by merging four slabs into two (5% and 18%) and a special tax slab of 40% for “sin goods".The GST council, led by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, early in September announced a major overhaul in the indirect taxation system, aimed at simplifying the slabs, boosting the consumption and rationalizing the rates. Under the new plan, the government is set to merge the four slabs into two main categories with an additional “sin tax" bracket: 5% slab — for essential goods. 18% slab – for most other goods and services. 40% slab – for luxury and sin goods such as tobacco, alcohol, betting, and online gaming. This consolidation is expected to make tax compliance easier and also reduce prices on many items currently taxed at 12% or 28%.This consolidation is expected to make tax compliance easier and also reduce prices on many items currently taxed at 12% or 28%.Consumers will see essential items becoming cheaper from September 22, as several sectors from FMCG to Auto have announced earlier to pass on the benefits of lower GST to them.  

Published 22 Sep 2025 05:13 PM

Live updates for the ITR due date: Will there be another extension of the income tax return deadline?

Live updates for the ITR due date: Will there be another extension of the income tax return deadline?

Date of ITR due REAL-time updates: The deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the assessment year 2025–2026 is now. Over 6.69 crore returns have already been received by the Income Tax Department, of which over 6.03 crore have been validated and 4 crore have been processed.Taxpayers who miss today's deadline risk interest on unpaid taxes, delayed refunds, and late fines of up to ₹5,000 (limited at ₹1,000 for individuals with incomes up to ₹5 lakh). Therefore, it is essential to file and confirm returns on time in order to prevent fines and guarantee prompt refund processing.The deadline is applicable to non-audit instances, such as the majority of salaried individuals, small enterprises or professions under the presumptive taxation plan, and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs). It is recommended that taxpayers refrain from spreading false information about extensions and instead rely solely on official updates from Income Tax India.In order to assist last-minute filers in appropriately completing submissions, the department's helpdesk is open around-the-clock and provides assistance via phone, live chat, WebEx sessions, and social media.The department's help line is open around-the-clock, providing assistance via phone, live chat, WebEx sessions, and social media to help filers who are submitting at the last minute appropriately.  

Published 15 Sep 2025 05:53 PM

What is the reason behind Punjab Governor Kataria's abrupt praise of the Bhagwant Mann government in contrast to cooperation

What is the reason behind Punjab Governor Kataria's abrupt praise of the Bhagwant Mann government in contrast to cooperation

The Punjab Assembly's budget session began earlier this week when Governor Gulab Chand Kataria gave a speech that mainly commended the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's performance, despite opposition protests interfering with Assembly business and the governor's own anti-drug march weeks prior continuing to garner political attention.In sharp contrast to his predecessor, Banwarilal Purohit, who had multiple run-ins with the Punjab government, Kataria praises the initiatives of the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government. The government drafts the governor's address, which summarizes their accomplishments.Governors Thaawar Chand Gehlot and R N Ravi, who has since been named governor of West Bengal, have recently omitted portions of their speeches that commended the state governments in states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where the governors are perceived to have a tumultuous relationship with the state government.Mann's AAP government and Purohit had a number of issues between 2022 and 2024. One such disagreement occurred in early 2023 when the Governor first refused to approve the Budget session, which forced the state government to petition the Supreme Court.However, Kataria's 51-page speech on March 6 detailed the state government's efforts in a number of areas, including welfare programs, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and anti-drug campaigns.The extension of Aam Aadmi Clinics throughout the state was one of the efforts that were emphasized. According to the governor, hundreds of clinics are currently in operation and have given locals crores of free consultations and medications. The speech also mentioned the government's "Yudh Nashean Virudh" anti-drug program, which includes outpatient opioid-assisted treatment clinics and de-addiction centers for drug addicts' rehabilitation.In order to improve government education, Kataria mentioned hiring thousands of instructors and creating Schools of Eminence. The address also mentioned road infrastructure upgrades, irrigation facilities, 300 units of free power for the majority of homes, and farmer welfare programs including increased sugarcane prices.Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa and other Congress lawmakers frequently interrupted the speech by shouting slogans about things like law and order. Assuring the lawmakers that they could voice their objections during the discussion later, Kataria pleaded with them to let him finish the constitutional address first. Congress MLAs eventually organized a walkout as the protests persisted. Following the speech, the Governor spoke at a joint press conference with Mann, praising the Punjab government's efforts to combat drug misuse and enhance education. According to him, the Opposition ought to have let the speech end before voicing its opinions in the House so that their complaints could be legally documented.  

Published 09 Mar 2026 05:58 PM

Unauthorized reviews, dubious log-ins, and fuzzy documents: TMC MP to Supreme Court on SIR

Unauthorized reviews, dubious log-ins, and fuzzy documents: TMC MP to Supreme Court on SIR

TMC MP Dola Sen told the Supreme Court that Election Commission-appointed micro-observers were allegedly overriding decisions made by Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), the statutory authority for including and deleting electors, raising concerns that eligible voters could be removed from the final electoral roll during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal.In two applications filed on February 16 and 18, Sen, a petitioner before the Supreme Court contesting the SIR, also claimed that documents uploaded to the system were becoming "blurry" after submission and that officials were allegedly logging into the ECINET portal from locations other than where they were deputed. On February 28, West Bengal's final electoral roll is expected to be released. The Indian Express asked the EC for comment on Sen's claims, but the EC did not reply.The EC only deployed micro-observers in West Bengal, which was a first, despite announcing the SIR in nine states and three Union Territories on October 27 of last year. The EC informed the Supreme Court on February 4 that the purpose of the 8,100 micro-observers, who work for the Central Government, was to support EROs and Assistant EROs (AEROs). The EC had stated, "It is false to suggest that statutory powers have been vested in the micro-observers."  

Published 25 Feb 2026 05:54 PM

Don't you feel guilty about selling Bharat Mata Rahul Gandhi criticizes the US accord and the Center

Don't you feel guilty about selling Bharat Mata Rahul Gandhi criticizes the US accord and the Center

Speaking in the Lok Sabha following days of deadlock, Rahul Gandhi criticized the Central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the recently concluded trade agreement with the United States, saying the administration should be embarrassed of it. In a vicious attack, Gandhi said that the Center "sold India" and that the government was endangering farmers' livelihoods by permitting US goods to enter."India is no longer yours. Do you not feel guilty for selling India? In reference to the trade deal, he declared, "You have sold our mother, Bharat Mata." He added that it was a "wholesale surrender" in which the interests of farmers were jeopardized and India's energy security was given to America. Gandhi went on to say that Donald Trump would have been advised to treat India equally if an INDIA Bloc administration had negotiated the trade deal with the US."This is total capitulation. The fact that it is a capitulation by more than simply the prime minister makes it tragic. He has given up the 1.5 billion Indians' future. Gandhi claimed that he had given up the future in order to save the BJP's financial structure, which is the subject of a case in the US.Gandhi claimed that the farmers' interests had been compromised and that they were facing a "storm" as American agricultural products flooded Indian markets. Additionally, he claimed that the Indian textile sector is "finished."We are about to enter a period of unrest, and the country has been sold. The country is sold out. "Its farmers and data have been sold," Gandhi reaffirmed as he wrapped up his remarks.Following Rahul Gandhi's address, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju declared that no one could sell India and charged that the Congress party was undermining the nation. "Congress is sad because India is progressing," he stated, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is India's strongest PM. He claimed that before leaving Parliament, the Congress MP gave speeches full of falsehoods and unfounded accusations. Rijiju remarked, "He never stays back to hear the minister's response."It is regrettable that we lack a serious personality or a person with a serious character that would be appropriate for the role of opposition leader. Rahul Gandhi's lies will be refuted by our party both within and outside the House.  

Published 11 Feb 2026 11:10 PM

Updates for the 10th day of the Parliament Budget Session The Government-Opposition deadlock ends, and both Houses begin discussing the budget

Updates for the 10th day of the Parliament Budget Session The Government-Opposition deadlock ends, and both Houses begin discussing the budget

The Lok Sabha began discussing the Union Budget on Tuesday, February 10, 2025, in the afternoon, signaling the end of the impasse between the opposition and treasury benches. The discussion had been delayed for days due to the opposition's insistence that LoP Rahul Gandhi be given the opportunity to speak on a number of topics. Following two adjournments, the House reconvened at 2 p.m., and the Speaker, Krishna Prasad Tenneti, invited Congressman Shashi Tharoor to commence the debate. The Thiruvananthapuram MP then began discussing the matter. Soon after opposition parties filed a notice to introduce a motion to oust Om Birla as Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the thaw occurred. Sukhendu Sekhar Roy of the Trinamool Congress emphasized that rising inequality could cause a "social upheaval," akin to what was seen in neighboring countries, as opposition parties criticized the government for failing to address issues like unemployment and inflation in the Union Budget during the budget discussion."If the situation is not brought under control, I fear that the country will soon experience social unrest similar to what has recently occurred in some of our neighboring countries. We have never witnessed such skyrocketing inequality between the rich, super rich, upper middle class, middle class, and the poor," Mr. Roy stated.  

Published 11 Feb 2026 11:06 PM

Can face acupuncture provide a more natural lift than botox and fillers?

Can face acupuncture provide a more natural lift than botox and fillers?

There has been a subtle change in the beauty industry during the past year. The popularity of dermal fillers and botox appeared to be waning. It appears that beauty enthusiasts are giving the needles a breather, as seen by celebrities discontinuing their procedures in favor of a more natural appearance and the growing popularity of products like face rollers and gua sha for a naturally elevated appearance.Instead of employing toxins or fillers to freeze or plump the skin, face acupuncture increases collagen and elastin through micro-trauma, providing a more natural, holistic lift than Botox and fillers. It improves skin texture and gives a subtle, refreshed appearance, but it takes several sessions to see noticeable changes. In contrast, Botox produces quicker, more noticeable, but transient, effects. Facial Acupuncture for Natural Lift: Mechanism: Increases circulation and collagen synthesis by stimulating the body's natural healing mechanisms with several small needles. Results: Enhances rather than changes face structure, giving the appearance of a subtle, renewed, and "lifted" appearance without the "frozen" or "pillowy" aspect. Benefits: Provides improved skin tone and texture by addressing the underlying causes of aging, including tension, stress, and hormonal imbalance. Longevity: Because they support the body's natural healing processes, benefits may be longer-lasting even though they are not instantaneous. Side effects: There is little chance of minor redness or bruises, and there is no recovery period.  

Published 25 Feb 2026 05:50 PM

When you chew a piece of ginger every day for sixty days, your body experiences this.

When you chew a piece of ginger every day for sixty days, your body experiences this.

Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can be found in ginger. However, what would happen if a person chewed a piece of ginger every day for sixty days? When we asked Dr. Amreen Sheikh, chief nutritionist at KIMS Hospitals, Thane, about it, he replied that it increases circulation, relaxes the airways, and progressively lessens throat inflammation. Many patients report decreased bloating, improved digestion, and fewer coughs after six to eight weeks. Ginger can ease the inner lining of the airways and provide general lung comfort for people who are susceptible to seasonal respiratory symptoms, according to Sheikh.Yes, but with reasonable expectations, Sheikh argued. Unlike medication, ginger does not "open the lungs." Rather, it operates subtly. It can aid those who frequently experience irritation from pollutants, relieve moderate wheezing from cold weather, and clear congestion in the throat. Additionally, by loosening mucus, its warming impact facilitates its expulsion during an illness. Ginger can help with long-term lung conditions like COPD or asthma, but it should never take the place of prescription medication, Sheikh said.While using ginger on a daily basis is generally safe, Sheikh pointed out that excessive use can cause oral irritation, cause acidity in those who are sensitive, or slightly thin the blood. Before developing a habit, people who take blood thinners or have gastritis or acid reflux should speak with a doctor. A tiny portion is more than sufficient; moderation is crucial," Sheikh stated.  

Published 23 Dec 2025 11:46 PM

Cough syrup deaths: TNFDA probe reveals Coldrif manufacturer's shortcomings

Cough syrup deaths: TNFDA probe reveals Coldrif manufacturer's shortcomings

According to CDSCO sources, the investigation into the Kanchipuram-based Coldrif cough syrup producer, which was connected to child fatalities in Madhya Pradesh, has shown shortcomings in the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration's enforcement of fundamental regulatory standards.They said that Sresan Pharma, which was granted a license by the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (TNFDA) in 2011, carried on operating undetected for more than ten years in spite of its inadequate infrastructure and many infractions of national drug safety regulations.According to the sources, a recent examination by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) revealed the unit's terrible conditions and complete disregard for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). "The CDSCO has not participated in any of Sresan Pharma's audits. This company was not included in any of the CDSCO databases since the CDSCO was not involved and the state FDA did not provide the CDSCO with any information on it, according to a source.Rule 84AB of the D and C Rules mandates that manufacturers update all of their certified items on the "Sugam" site, according to another source at the CDSCO.In order to facilitate improved monitoring, the regulation was notified to create a national database of all the authorized items in the nation. "The business failed to list its goods in the database. It did not follow this guideline as a result. According to the source, the state regulator is in charge of ensuring that the regulation is followed in the state.  

Published 15 Oct 2025 04:59 PM

Why the most popular (and dubious) fad right now is North West's finger piercing

Why the most popular (and dubious) fad right now is North West's finger piercing

The Kardashian-Jenner family is known for starting trends, some of which are lighthearted, some of which are outrageous, and others of which are downright dubious. When Kim Kardashian and her 12-year-old daughter North West were spotted in Rome recently, everyone's attention was drawn to North's middle finger dermal piercing.Their excursion has generated a lot of controversy, with Kim facing backlash for permitting her preteen child receive the piercing. However, finger piercings have also gained popularity, and many people are now interested in learning more about them, their process, and their safety.A dermal piercing, also known as a micro dermal or single-point piercing, is a way to change your body where a piece of jewelry is inserted under the skin so that only the pretty top is visible, says Sahil Bali, an artist at Devil'z Tattooz in Delhi. Bali continues by explaining that dermal piercings are single-entry piercings, as opposed to conventional piercings, which enter one side of the skin and exit the other. "They are performed by using a needle or dermal punch to make a tiny pocket in the skin, after which an anchor base is inserted beneath the skin. After that, a decorative stud or gem is put onto the anchor," he explains, adding that these piercings may be done practically anywhere on the body, including the fingers, lower back, cheekbone, and chest, but they take longer to heal than conventional piercings."Dermal piercings need careful cleaning and protection, as they can get easily irritated or caught on things, making them slightly higher maintenance than normal piercings," says Dr. Shireen Furtado, senior consultant, medical and cosmetic dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru.  

Published 07 Oct 2025 09:43 PM

Axar Patel leads DC to a decisive victory over Rishabh Pant's LSG on a night that contrasts for the captains.

Axar Patel leads DC to a decisive victory over Rishabh Pant's LSG on a night that contrasts for the captains.

Returning to Lucknow for the first time since his unsatisfactory dismissal from the team, KL Rahul ended the game with a spectacular six to go undefeated in a run-chase with a 42-ball 57.On a night full of stories at Lucknow's Ekana Stadium, the Delhi Capitals won by 8 wickets in a 160-run chase, solidifying their status as this season's title contenders. KL Rahul, who is making his first appearance in Lucknow after his unsatisfactory dismissal from the team, ended the game with a spectacular six to go undefeated in a run chase with a 42-ball 57. In the twelfth over of their respective innings, LSG and DC both lost their second wicket. Axar Patel entered when a composed Abishek Porel collapsed. At this point, DC was only under a little pressure to take a few wickets, but it might have grown complicated because new batters take time to get comfortable. With two sixes over the midwicket zone, his favorite hit against spin, Axar took out Ravi Bishnoi in the very next over after Avesh Khan had dismissed him after four dot balls.In the following over, facing Avesh once more after being outscored by a few deliveries, he decided to take a chance and hit a four to try to clear the fielder at mid-off. The most impressive stroke came from Shardul Thakur, who took up a not-so-short ball with the weight still on his backfoot and sent it over long on for a six.  

Published 23 Apr 2025 08:56 PM

Nitish Rana on RR not selecting him for Super Over against DC despite 51 off 28:

Nitish Rana on RR not selecting him for Super Over against DC despite 51 off 28: "One person never takes the call."

Despite hitting 51 off 28 balls against the Delhi Capitals, Nitish Rana was left out of the Super Over lineup as the Rajasthan Royals entered with Hetmyer and Riyan Parag.Nitish Rana remained in the middle until the 18th over of the chase after smashing 51 off 28 balls. At the Arun Jaitely Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday, the Rajasthan Royals sent neither batsman to bat despite Yashasvi Jaiswal's 51 off 37 balls in the Super Over against the Delhi Capitals. Eyes were rolling when Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag came out to bat in the Super Over. Rana wasn't even on the list of the three batters for the Super Over, but Jaiswal was chosen to bat following a wicket fall.RR's choice proved to be a poor one as Mitchell Starc of DC cramped the Hetmyer for space with yorkers and the reverse swing, allowing him to begin the Super Over with a dot ball. The Australian bowler was hit for four after missing his mark on the next delivery, but he recovered with another low full toss in the third ball. A single was taken by Hetmyer.Starc's low full toss was hit by Riyan Parag over third man for a boundary, sometimes known as a no-ball. After it appeared that RR would easily reach 15 with three balls left, the game took yet another sharp turn. RR was bowled out for just 11 as Parag and Jaiswal were ran out in the following ball.KL Rahul and Tristian Stubbs smash two sixes in the first three balls of Sandeep Sharma's Super Over to give DC a historic victory, so the total was insufficient. Following the game, Nitish Rana stated that the decision to send Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer instead of him for the Super Over was made by the RR management. Rana said he didn't have an alternative response, adding that if Hetmyer had hit a couple of sixes in the Super Over, the questions would have been different."The call is answered by management, not a single individual. Along with two other senior players and coaches, the captain is present. You wouldn't be asking this question if Shimron Hetmyer had hit two sixes. I'll respond with the same response. I have no other response. Every choice we made was the right one. Everyone knows that Hetmyer is our finisher. During the press conference, Rana stated, "He has previously delivered."  

Published 17 Apr 2025 09:05 PM

Who Won CSK vs. RR, Match 11 in Yesterday's IPL 2025 Match?

Who Won CSK vs. RR, Match 11 in Yesterday's IPL 2025 Match?

The outcome of yesterday's IPL 2024 match between CSK and RR: Watch the most recent IPL action as CSK and RR square off in the 2025 season's first game. Get all the match information and updates here, along with the results of the encounter.The highly anticipated Match 11 between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season was played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost against Rajasthan Royals (RR) by a margin of six runs. First to bowl, RR amassed 182 runs. Despite pursuing the objective, CSK ended up at 176 for 6 in 20 overs. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) defeated the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 6 runs in the March 30 IPL 2025 match. After two losses earlier in the season, this victory was RR's first. In contrast, CSK lost this game for the second time in a row.Highlights of the IPL 2025 match between the Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings: Wanindu Hasaranga takes four wickets to help the Royals overcome the Super Kings by six runs.  

Published 31 Mar 2025 08:23 PM

India's bold strategy aids in a quick T20 reconstruction

India's bold strategy aids in a quick T20 reconstruction

The world champions are creating an environment where players perform well without worrying about keeping their spots in the squad or taking wickets.Kolkata: Although it's early, the process and outcomes give hope that India would successfully defend the T20 World Cup at home the following year. Despite the pessimism caused by the Test and ODI transition issues, India's T20 trajectory stands out thanks to series victories against South Africa, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and now England. Even more so when one considers that Kuldeep Yadav, Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal have not been parachuted in.This is most likely a greater accomplishment. However, they have approached it virtually undetected. No culture of stars. Verify. No set order for batting. Verify. Just a group of young, talented, and incredibly self-assured cricket players going about their business without worrying about career curves. By the way, all IPL linchpins.Captain Suryakumar Yadav acknowledges his lack of quality as he is left off the Champions Trophy roster. Abhishek Sharma thinks a ball is there to be struck, hence he doesn't count returns. As long as Tilak Varma is at the crease, the second Twenty20 match in Chennai demonstrated that no equation is too difficult. And the fact that India lost to 12/3 and then 79/5 at Pune on Friday, yet still managed to score 181, demonstrated that the previous game's disaster chasing in Rajkot was really a fluke. The realization that not everything can be managed lies at the core of this long-term upsurge. Earlier this week, Sitanshu Kotak, India's new batting coach, said it. "To achieve a score of 200 or 225, and if you are  

Published 04 Feb 2025 04:28 PM

Bihar Catch-22 Congress and RJD are hesitant to take action against MLAs who did not participate in Rajya Sabha elections

Bihar Catch-22 Congress and RJD are hesitant to take action against MLAs who did not participate in Rajya Sabha elections

Both parties are currently in a difficult situation after the Opposition Mahagathbandhan lost to the NDA in the pivotal Rajya Sabha elections earlier this week due to the absence of four of its MLAs, three from the Congress and one from the RJD. They are unsure of how to deal with them. Surendra Mehta (Valmiki Nagar), Manoj Vishwas (Forbesganj), and Manohar Prasad Singh (Manihari) have all received show-cause notices from the Congress, and the RJD has not yet made a decision regarding their Dhaka lawmaker Faisal Rahman.Asit Nath Tiwari, a spokesperson for the Bihar Congress, told The Indian Express that the notifications were sent out despite the fact that Rajya Sabha elections are exempt from the anti-defection law. "Top party leaders will meet and decide on the appropriate course of action after we receive their responses," he stated.Another Congress leader, however, pointed out that the MLAs make up almost half of the party's strength in the Assembly and suggested that disciplinary action was improbable. What happens if the Speaker acknowledges them as a distinct group? Regardless, the rebels weren't actually members of Congress. Singh is known to be close to JD(U) leaders, whereas Mehta received a ticket because of the influence of (Independent Purnea MP) Pappu Yadav," the politician stated.Rahman, the son of former MP Motiur Rahman, presents a similar problem for the RJD. "Faisal narrowly secured his seat in the Assembly elections last year. Additionally, we have verified that his mother was quite ill on March 16, the day of the election. The party is likely to call the MLA once our leader Tejashwi Yadav comes to Patna. An RJD senior stated that the party will not be provoked by NDA leaders "who want to further weaken it," although no official show-cause notice has yet been issued.  

Published 21 Mar 2026 05:57 PM

What is the reason behind Punjab Governor Kataria's abrupt praise of the Bhagwant Mann government in contrast to cooperation

What is the reason behind Punjab Governor Kataria's abrupt praise of the Bhagwant Mann government in contrast to cooperation

The Punjab Assembly's budget session began earlier this week when Governor Gulab Chand Kataria gave a speech that mainly commended the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's performance, despite opposition protests interfering with Assembly business and the governor's own anti-drug march weeks prior continuing to garner political attention.In sharp contrast to his predecessor, Banwarilal Purohit, who had multiple run-ins with the Punjab government, Kataria praises the initiatives of the Bhagwant Mann-led AAP government. The government drafts the governor's address, which summarizes their accomplishments.Governors Thaawar Chand Gehlot and R N Ravi, who has since been named governor of West Bengal, have recently omitted portions of their speeches that commended the state governments in states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where the governors are perceived to have a tumultuous relationship with the state government.Mann's AAP government and Purohit had a number of issues between 2022 and 2024. One such disagreement occurred in early 2023 when the Governor first refused to approve the Budget session, which forced the state government to petition the Supreme Court.However, Kataria's 51-page speech on March 6 detailed the state government's efforts in a number of areas, including welfare programs, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and anti-drug campaigns.The extension of Aam Aadmi Clinics throughout the state was one of the efforts that were emphasized. According to the governor, hundreds of clinics are currently in operation and have given locals crores of free consultations and medications. The speech also mentioned the government's "Yudh Nashean Virudh" anti-drug program, which includes outpatient opioid-assisted treatment clinics and de-addiction centers for drug addicts' rehabilitation.In order to improve government education, Kataria mentioned hiring thousands of instructors and creating Schools of Eminence. The address also mentioned road infrastructure upgrades, irrigation facilities, 300 units of free power for the majority of homes, and farmer welfare programs including increased sugarcane prices.Leader of the Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa and other Congress lawmakers frequently interrupted the speech by shouting slogans about things like law and order. Assuring the lawmakers that they could voice their objections during the discussion later, Kataria pleaded with them to let him finish the constitutional address first. Congress MLAs eventually organized a walkout as the protests persisted. Following the speech, the Governor spoke at a joint press conference with Mann, praising the Punjab government's efforts to combat drug misuse and enhance education. According to him, the Opposition ought to have let the speech end before voicing its opinions in the House so that their complaints could be legally documented.  

Published 09 Mar 2026 05:58 PM

Unauthorized reviews, dubious log-ins, and fuzzy documents: TMC MP to Supreme Court on SIR

Unauthorized reviews, dubious log-ins, and fuzzy documents: TMC MP to Supreme Court on SIR

TMC MP Dola Sen told the Supreme Court that Election Commission-appointed micro-observers were allegedly overriding decisions made by Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), the statutory authority for including and deleting electors, raising concerns that eligible voters could be removed from the final electoral roll during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in West Bengal.In two applications filed on February 16 and 18, Sen, a petitioner before the Supreme Court contesting the SIR, also claimed that documents uploaded to the system were becoming "blurry" after submission and that officials were allegedly logging into the ECINET portal from locations other than where they were deputed. On February 28, West Bengal's final electoral roll is expected to be released. The Indian Express asked the EC for comment on Sen's claims, but the EC did not reply.The EC only deployed micro-observers in West Bengal, which was a first, despite announcing the SIR in nine states and three Union Territories on October 27 of last year. The EC informed the Supreme Court on February 4 that the purpose of the 8,100 micro-observers, who work for the Central Government, was to support EROs and Assistant EROs (AEROs). The EC had stated, "It is false to suggest that statutory powers have been vested in the micro-observers."  

Published 25 Feb 2026 05:54 PM

A  new system is implemented by Priyanka Gandhi to choose Congress candidates for the Assam elections.

A new system is implemented by Priyanka Gandhi to choose Congress candidates for the Assam elections.

Senior state leaders are typically summoned to the nation's capital for the screening committee's meeting with the state election committee (SEC) in Delhi. The three committee members have been given five districts each by Priyanka ji, who has instructed them to visit these areas in order to get input from stakeholders and local leaders. The three leaders are currently visiting local media, civil society activists, and cadres in the three areas. All of these sessions are private, and the results will be presented to the screening committee at its next meeting," the source stated. If Vadra's trial is successful and the system functions effectively, the AICC may think about adopting it for next state elections, a senior AICC leader told The Indian Express. According to the leader, "this system could be emulated in other upcoming elections, regardless of how we do in the Assam polls in terms of winning seats."The rest of the state would be discussed later, but the exercise is currently taking on in Upper Assam. Additionally, the split was made using the districts' social engineering. Since Ulaka is a tribal leader himself, he has been allocated several districts with a sizable population of tribal communities, whereas Masood has been allotted districts with a sizable Muslim population, the source said.  

Published 18 Feb 2026 05:52 PM

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Keep music out of your ears rather than in them with SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2.

Keep music out of your ears rather than in them with SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2.

Given how many calls we have to answer, we all spend a lot of time between earphones. We also try to relax by taking walks and running while listening to music or podcasts. Since noise-cancelling devices literally create a vacuum in the canal, our ears are not really designed to handle in-ear audio.This explains why some people, at the very least, favor open-ear headphones and earbuds that allow for natural music listening without isolating you from the outside world. The alternative strategy is used by SHOKZ, a company that produces open-ear headphones that provide sound without causing any damage to the ear canals by using bone conduction technology. The SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 maintains your ear canals entirely open while producing high-quality audio through the use of bone conduction and air conduction technology. You can simultaneously hear music and your surroundings thanks to this "open-ear" design, which is especially helpful for safety when running and cycling.  

Published 13 Oct 2025 05:31 PM

Castrol India's MD Steps Down, New CEO Takes Over

Castrol India's MD Steps Down, New CEO Takes Over

A significant participant in the lubricant industry, Castrol India, is going through a leadership change. The present Managing Director, Kedar Lele, will leave at the end of December 2025 in order to pursue other possibilities. He continues to serve as Wholetime Director & Head of B2C Sales, although the company has named Saugata Basuray as Interim CEO, effective January 2026.A board decision states that Lele will formally step down as Managing Director on December 31, 2025, at the end of business. His decision to "pursue other opportunities" is cited as the reason. Since assuming leadership duties not long ago, his time as MD has been rather short.Saugata Basuray will take on the additional role of Interim CEO on January 1, 2026, until a new Managing Director is chosen. He is still employed in his previous role as Head of B2C Sales and Wholetime Director. His title will be changed to "Wholetime Director & Interim CEO" in light of the new hire. Having worked for Castrol since 1999 in a variety of leadership roles across verticals and territories, Basuray is an experienced veteran of the organization. Internal stability and continuity: Castrol India appears to emphasize stability during transition if it selects a leader who is already a part of the organization. Leadership development: While a more permanent replacement is being found, Basuray is a viable temporary option due to his extensive expertise and institutional memory. Market reaction: The revelation caused the company's share price to slightly decline, indicating that investors are sensitive to changes in the company's leadership. The upcoming strategic period: This change in leadership comes at a time when the lubricant industry is dealing with issues related to changing mobility trends, like electric cars, the need for sustainability, and shifting automotive ecosystems.  

Published 13 Oct 2025 05:21 PM

According to MoE data, over 1 lakh single-teacher schools in India educate over 33 lakh children.

According to MoE data, over 1 lakh single-teacher schools in India educate over 33 lakh children.

According to data from the Ministry of Education, there are over 33 lakh kids enrolled in over one lakh single-teacher schools nationwide, with Andhra Pradesh having the most of these institutions and Uttar Pradesh having the most students enrolled in them. 33,76,769 kids were enrolled in 1,04,125 single-teacher schools in India during the 2024–2025 school year, with an average of roughly 34 pupils per school.Despite efforts to rectify the situation, over 33 lakh Indian pupils are still enrolled in schools with just one teacher, and the roughly one lakh schools where they attend have not hired a teacher to replace their current one. For the academic year 2024–2025, the Union Ministry of Education released data from the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) last week, showing that 1,04,125 schools in India are operated by a single teacher, serving 33,76,769 children. Andhra Pradesh has the most single-teacher schools, followed by Karnataka, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Lakshadweep. Nonetheless, Uttar Pradesh leads the pack in terms of student enrollment in single-teacher schools, followed by Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh.Single-teacher schools are still a major problem in India, despite a decline in their numbers from 1,18,190 in 2022–2023 to 1,10,971 in 2023–2024. According to the ministry, "the number of single teacher schools has decreased by approximately 6% in the reporting year compared to the prior year due to the deliberate and significant governmental interventions." According to officials, in order to guarantee "optimal teacher availability," attempts are being made to redistribute teachers from schools with no students enrolled to single-teacher schools.  

Published 13 Oct 2025 05:19 PM

Which of the three magnificent cats would most likely prevail in a fight involving tigers, leopards, and lions?

Which of the three magnificent cats would most likely prevail in a fight involving tigers, leopards, and lions?

Big cats, from the sprawling African savannahs to the center of deep Asian jungles, captivate our collective imagination, especially when they are included in fictitious fights. In a conflict between a tiger, a leopard, or a lion, who would win? Let's examine the information.When it comes to sheer muscle and mass, tigers have the advantage. The largest of the great cats, male tigers can weigh up to 600 pounds or more. Although they usually weigh a little less, lions' stocky bodies nevertheless contain a lot of strength. Further investigation reveals that adult male tigers weigh 400–670 pounds, while male lions weigh 331–550 pounds. These parameters are validated by first-hand reports from animal observers: Even the greatest African lions are frequently greatly outnumbered by Bengal and Siberian tigers.Instead of speculating about who would prevail in a battle, we would much rather people focus their mental energies on preserving these amazing kitties. But because it's a frequently asked question, let's get started. The quick answer is that it depends on a variety of characteristics, including temperament, age, and size. Nonetheless, tigers typically have the upper hand. Tigers have an advantage in warfare since they are not only typically larger but also better at fighting when standing on their hind legs. Although there is much disagreement over the efficacy of this, some think that a lion's mane may offer some neck protection. When tigers and lions faced up in the Roman Coliseum, according to ancient legend, the tigers typically prevailed. Fortunately, though, those savage days are long gone.The likelihood of a tiger and lion encountering in the wild is nearly nonexistent nowadays. Lions are primarily located in Africa, with a small population surviving in a small area of India, whereas tigers traverse Asia. A tight affinity between these two species was shown at Big Cat Rescue between Cameron, a male lion, and Zabu, a white tiger. They were saved from a breeding environment that aimed to create ligers, a hybrid that we most definitely do not support. Although their humorous exchanges may have seemed like a quarrel, rest assured that it was all in good humor. And just so you know, we like to assume Zabu would have had the advantage.  

Published 13 Oct 2025 05:19 PM

Day 12 (LIVE) box office receipts for

Day 12 (LIVE) box office receipts for "Kantara: Chapter 1": The Rishab Shetty movie, which has already made over Rs 430 crore, begins the second Monday slowly.

How "Kantara: Chapter 1" has dominated the box office. Despite having a massive opening of over Rs 60 crore on day one in all languages, the Rishab Shetty-directed film, which also starred him, Rukmini Vasanth, and other performers, gradually started to decline. It made the most of its October 2 release date, which was a national holiday because of Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra. However, the movie continued to make around Rs 20 crore even in the days that followed. It has grown well on its second weekend.Rishab Shetty, the mastermind of Kantara, posted BTS images of the film, and the post quickly gained popularity. The BTS photographs were posted on Instagram, and within three hours, they had over 1.5 lakh likes."A swollen leg and an exhausted body were present during the climax shoot, but now millions of people watch and admire the climax." Only the blessings of the heavenly spirit that we believe in made this possible. Sincere gratitude to all of our supporters," Rishab Shetty wrote beside the photos. On October 2, Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, a prequel to the popular first movie, was made available. The film made ₹478.65 crore net in 11 days in India. Sacnilk claims that the film has already made ₹600 crore worldwide. According to reports, Kantara 2 had a ₹125 crore budget.Three years have passed since Kantara, which was made for a mere ₹16 crore, became an enormous success. Globally, the folklore drama brought in ₹407.82 crore. The images that went viral depict Rishab's swelling legs during the climax shoot, which has grown to be one of the most moving moments for fans all around the country.  

Published 13 Oct 2025 05:12 PM

In negotiations to raise $100 million in a round headed by General Atlantic, Snapmint

In negotiations to raise $100 million in a round headed by General Atlantic, Snapmint

Snapmint is in advanced negotiations with General Atlantic to raise around $100 million, or INR 886 crore, in a fresh investment round. There will be primary and secondary components to the financing, and some early angel investors may partially withdraw. A few early angel investors are probably going to partially depart the round, which will have both primary and secondary components.Mumbai: According to four persons with knowledge of the situation, consumer lending platform Snapmint is currently gathering $100 million in a funding round headed by General Atlantic and involving current backers Elev8 Venture Partners and Kae Capital.Snapmint is in advanced negotiations with General Atlantic to raise around $100 million, or INR 886 crore, in a fresh investment round. There will be primary and secondary components to the financing, and some early angel investors may partially withdraw.is in advanced discussions to raise over $100 million (roughly INR 886 crore) in a fresh investment round headed by General Atlantic, according to sources.    

Published 13 Oct 2025 05:08 PM

FINIXX Summit & Awards 2025: Transforming BFSI for a Bharat empowered by digital technology

FINIXX Summit & Awards 2025: Transforming BFSI for a Bharat empowered by digital technology

The financial services industry is at the forefront of change as India moves closer to realizing its goal of having a digitally inclusive economy. The FINIXX Summit and Awards 2025 returns against this dynamic backdrop with the audacious and forward-thinking subject, "Reimagining BFSI: Powering Digital Bharat Goals." The FINIXX Summit and Awards 2025 will take place in Mumbai tomorrow, October 14.FINIXX Summit 2025, which is set to bring together some of the most prominent voices in banking, financial services, insurance (BFSI), fintech, and marketing in the nation, is expected to be more than just a forum for discussion; it seeks to incite change, foster trust, and establish new standards for how financial brands interact with a rapidly changing customer base.Examining how digitization, human-centric design, trust-building, and integrated marketing tactics are changing the game for financial institutions throughout India is the main goal of the summit. As the underserved, underbanked, and technologically savvy Bharat sector becomes a strategic priority, FINIXX 2025 urgently highlights inclusive and transformative innovation. The summit will examine topics that represent the industry's continuous development through keynote addresses, fireside chats, CXO panels, and real-world case studies. The agenda gives a broad overview of the future, covering topics like figuring out how AI and data are changing engagement and risk assessment, as well as deciphering the next wave of fintech disruption.The comprehensive approach of FINIXX 2025 is what makes it unique. Exposure to cross-functional viewpoints will enable attendees to go with more than just talking points—they will leave with practical frameworks. C-suite executives, marketing strategists, product developers, compliance officers, and digital growth architects who want to remain on top of trends are the target audience for this event.  

Published 13 Oct 2025 04:59 PM

SBI looks to focus on deal financing within its own territory, as a draft regulation from the RBI proposes an even playing field for Indian banks

SBI looks to focus on deal financing within its own territory, as a draft regulation from the RBI proposes an even playing field for Indian banks

The State Bank of India (SBI), which has long funded the overseas acquisitions of Indian companies, believes it is prepared to support domestic mergers and acquisitions (M&As) as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) looks into the possibility of allowing domestic lenders to do so.“Our outbound M&A financing involves Indian corporations acquiring foreign entities. Banks such as SBI possess extensive knowledge of acquisition financing,” C.S. Setty, chairman of the largest lender in the country, informed reporters during the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai on Wednesday.Amitabh Chaudhry, the managing director and CEO of Axis Bank, stated on Tuesday that his bank aims not only to take part but also to challenge foreign banks that have been funding these acquisitions for several years, offering them “a run for their money.”On 1 October, in the course of detailing its review of monetary policy, the RBI unveiled a draft framework aimed at allowing domestic banks to underwrite acquisition financing for Indian corporates—something that has been desired by the banking sector for a long time. Regulatory constraints had effectively prohibited Indian banks from providing loans for share purchases in acquisition deals up to this point. Foreign banks, non-bank financial institutions, bond markets, and private equity largely took on those tasks.As the RBI aims to revise the regulations, domestic banks might soon benefit from a level playing field that is conditioned on safeguards, credit limits, and oversight standards. Market participants think this action could reveal value in the corporate funding life cycle. “Im Zuge des Geschäftsjahres 2024 beliefen sich die Werte von M&A-Transaktionen auf mehr als 120 Milliarden US-Dollar (ungefähr ₹10 lakh crore bzw. trillion). As per a note from SBI Research Ecowrap following the RBI's announcement regarding draft rules, if we consider that the debt component accounts for 40% of M&A and that banks could finance 30% of this, it results in a possible credit growth of ₹1.2 lakh crore.  

Published 09 Oct 2025 04:27 PM

I gave the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold a try… I am now convinced that I don’t need multiple devices

I gave the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold a try… I am now convinced that I don’t need multiple devices

After a month of work-related travel to four major US cities, I returned to India and realized that managing three phones, a laptop, a tablet, a handheld console, and over-ear headphones was no longer feasible for me. It could be overwhelming at times – flying from one city to another, undergoing numerous security checks, and constantly fearing that a device might be left behind. This journey prompted me to reconsider the limits of excess, particularly given that I was going to consecutive tech events in various locations. It seems that I have at last come to understand that juggling several devices is simply not for me. For tech journalists, it is now far more sensible to have a single device, such as the Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Though foldables are not yet mainstream (their high cost keeps them out of reach for most consumers), in my experience, the phone-tablet duo does provide a difference compared to carrying a separate phone and tablet; In addition, the user experience appears to have enhanced.While the Pixel 10 Pro Fold may appear similar to last year’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold that I reviewed, it boasts significant enhancements including a larger battery, a quicker Tensor G5 chip, upgraded cameras, improved displays, water resistance for folding phones, and enhanced integration with Google’s Gemini AI tools. It didn’t take me long to adapt to the folding Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which felt more polished and personal, but switching from my iPhone to the Google phone was still a challenge.  

Published 09 Oct 2025 04:24 PM

In the push for OBC quota, BJP MP government aligns its argument with Congress's 'jitni abaadi, utna haq' pitch

In the push for OBC quota, BJP MP government aligns its argument with Congress's 'jitni abaadi, utna haq' pitch

The BJP government in Madhya Pradesh, led by Mohan Yadav, is advocating in the Supreme Court for an increase in the reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) from 14% to 27%. This initiative would violate the top court's quota ceiling of 50%. It appears to resonate with Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi's call for “jitni abaadi, utna haq (representation proportional to population).”In an affidavit submitted on September 23 before the Supreme Court proceedings that commenced Wednesday, the Madhya Pradesh government referenced 2011 Census data, stating that disadvantaged groups including Scheduled Castes (SCs) at 15.6% of the population, Scheduled Tribes (STs) at 21.1%, and OBCs at over 51% together constitute over 87% of the state's population. On Sunday, veteran Congress politician Kamal Nath charged that the BJP government in Madhya Pradesh was perpetrating a “drama” under the pretext of providing a 27 percent reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). He claimed that the ruling party aimed to deny this community its rights. The OBC quota was raised from 14% to 27% by an ordinance under Nath's Congress government in 2019, but litigation prevented its implementation.Nath asserted in an X post that the Mohan Yadav government was using court procedures and legal advice as a repeated excuse to protect itself.    

Published 09 Oct 2025 04:19 PM

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Designated as Buildathon 2025 Brand Ambassador

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Designated as Buildathon 2025 Brand Ambassador

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is the first Indian to arrive at the International Space Station (ISS), has been named the brand ambassador for Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025, which is India’s largest school hackathon to date. The Buildathon, organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with Atal Innovation Mission and NITI Aayog, seeks to involve more than one crore students from 1.5 lakh schools in the process of generating ideas, designing, and constructing prototypes that tackle real-world problems. This far-reaching initiative corresponds with the goals of Viksit Bharat 2047, the national vision for 2047, and seeks to foster creativity, innovation, and self-reliance in young people in India.What does Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025 entail? On September 23, 2025, the Ministry of Education, together with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and AICTE, launched the Buildathon. Its goal is to involve students from Classes VI to XII throughout India. It is anticipated that more than 1.5 lakh schools will take part, engaging over one crore students. This initiative is in line with India’s Viksit Bharat @ 2047 vision, which emphasizes self-reliance, innovation, and inclusive prosperity.What is the Buildathon’s uniqueness? The Buildathon, which commenced on September 23, 2025, encourages students from grades 6 to 12 to join together in teams and engage in a nationwide innovation initiative. The live event is scheduled for October 13, with the announcement of winners set for December. This school hackathon, with its extensive reach, aims to promote critical thinking, the practical use of knowledge, and early exposure to real-world innovation processes — in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.Four National Themes Guiding the Buildathon Atmanirbhar Bharat – Establishing self-sufficient systems and solutions Swadeshi – Advocating for native knowledge and technologies Vocal for Local – Advocating for local goods, craftsmanship, and business ventures Samriddhi – Establishing routes for sustainable development and flourishing These themes motivate students to create prototypes that aid in India’s socio-economic advancement.Unchanging Facts Event Name: Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025 Launch Date: September 23, 2025 Organised by: Ministry of Education, Atal Innovation Mission, and NITI Aayog Participants: over 1 crore students, 150 000 schools Eligibility: Learners from grades 6 to 12 Themes: Atmanirbhar Bharat, Swadeshi, Vocal for Local, Samriddhi Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla: Brand Ambassador  

Published 09 Oct 2025 04:18 PM

PM Internship Scheme 2025: Which companies can applicants submit their applications to?

PM Internship Scheme 2025: Which companies can applicants submit their applications to?

Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme 2025: Applications are currently open for the Ministry of Corporate Affairs’ Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme 2025. You can apply for the internship by visiting the official website at pminternship.mca.gov.in. The following is a list of all partner companies that will offer students one-year internship opportunities. PM Internship Scheme 2025: The upcoming PM Internship Scheme 2025 aims to provide numerous opportunities for the youth of India, with the goal of linking theoretical education and hands-on work experience. Initiated by the Indian government, this scheme aims at youth from low-income families aged 21 to 24, offering them 12-month internships in a selection of India’s top 500 companies. This initiative contributes to a broader vision aimed at fostering skill development and improving job prospects for young people in the country.  

Published 09 Oct 2025 04:17 PM

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