India News & Trends
CNN-News18 introduces Shawan Sens Raw Report
Shawan Sen, a professional journalist, is the anchor of CNN-News18's new program, Raw Report. Starting on August 3, the program will air on television, connected TV (CTV), and YouTube on weekdays at 12 and 10 p.m. By providing exclusive stories, ground reporting, and context surrounding the day's most significant events, Raw Report seeks to go beyond headlines by fusing live reporting with in-depth analysis. Using the network's reach, each edition will aim to provide viewers with a new, unique perspective on the most important news of the day.The article that sets the agenda for the day will be the main topic of the 12 p.m. edition. The show will explain developments using on-the-ground reporting, in-depth images, and crisp, data-driven graphics rather than just broadcasting breaking news, assisting viewers in comprehending the wider picture as events take place.A thorough summary of the day's most important domestic and international stories will be provided in the 10 p.m. edition. It will give viewers a 360-degree view of the events influencing the news cycle, based on in-depth reporting and perceptive analysis. Every story that Raw Report covers will include an exclusive news break in addition to a major newsmaker of the day. For the second time, Shawan Sen has joined CNN-News18 as Executive Editor – Enterprise & Special Investigations. From September 2012 to July 2016, he covered crime, defence, and intelligence services as a Senior Correspondent for CNN-IBN. He has also collaborated with Times Network, Republic TV, The Times of India, and The Indian Express over the years.Rahul Shivshankar, Editorial Affairs Director, CNN-News18, announced the launch, saying, "As the nation's top English news channel, we have to keep evolving with it. News consumption is changing rapidly." At CNN-News18, we're always experimenting with formats to increase the engagement of our reporting without sacrificing authenticity. One such step is the Raw Report. Original reporting, enterprising journalism, and insightful analysis are its cornerstones. Shawan's return demonstrates our dedication to bolstering our editorial staff with some of the best journalists in the industry. He is a great asset to our newsroom because of his background as a field reporter and his knack for breaking news."Shawan Sen, Executive Editor-Enterprise & Special Investigations at CNN-News18, offered his thoughts on the new program: "Returning to CNN-News18 is special because it's a newsroom that has always believed in strong reporting." Being where the news is, getting to the facts first, and providing viewers with verified, first-hand information are the cornerstones of the journalism I've practiced throughout my career. The goal is to cut through the clutter and provide a clear explanation of each story's essential elements. We've done our job if viewers leave believing what we report and comprehending the narrative more fully."
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:22 PM
Your heritage lends you credibility. You get the future through relevance: From Anirban Banerjee to classic brands
Nostalgia is not a viable strategy for legacy brands. Anirban Banerjee, CEO of Eveready Industries India Ltd., stated during his keynote speech at Adgully's CMOs' Charcha-Kolkata Chapter 2026, which is presently taking place in Kolkata, that they must always change in order to be significant for future generations of consumers. Speaking to a group of marketers, brand executives, and business experts, Banerjee discussed Eveready's own transformation process and made the case that, although longevity is an accomplishment, a brand's relevance ultimately decides its survival."We celebrate longevity when we have a brand. However, longevity on its own is only a success if the brand continues to be relevant to every new generation and shifting market. "Your longevity is remembered and celebrated if you continue to provide what customers need at that point in time," he emphasized. Banerjee began his lecture by citing well-known businesses to illustrate his claim that a brand's past does not ensure its future. Because they reimagined themselves, many legendary brands have endured. Others vanished while leaving behind a great legacy. Survival is never assured, even for the largest brands. Because of this, the issue of relevancy keeps coming up, he explained.Banerjee cited companies like Lego, Asian Paints, and Amul as examples of how they have effectively adjusted to shifting consumer demands through innovation, diversification, and ongoing reinvention while maintaining their essential character.Speaking about Eveready, one of the most well-known and established consumer brands in India with strong ties to West Bengal, Banerjee stated that the company's goal is to appeal to younger consumers in addition to maintaining its legacy. "Maintaining the heritage is not the problem. Making the heritage relevant for young people and Gen Z consumers is a challenge. He admitted that as brands become more iconic, transition gets harder. "Change feels harder the more iconic a brand gets. It seems dangerous. However, the risk of staying the same is considerably greater.Banerjee discussed how Eveready has been updating its brand to better suit the evolving needs of its customers. A modern design inspired by an infinity loop, which represents unending energy and limitless potential, replaces the long-standing, well-known "Give Me Red" positioning in the revised identity. Banerjee claims that the transformation is about communicating the brand's heritage in a way that appeals to modern consumers rather than giving it up. "Our identity now represents empowerment and limitless possibilities instead of just energy."
Published 28 Jul 2026 05:41 PM
From Stage to Screen and Beyond: Kubbra Saits Numerous Reimaginings
Actor and author Kubbra Sait is once again showing her ability to reinvent herself through her latest project, Humanaige. Known for taking on bold and meaningful roles, Kubbra continues to explore new ways of expressing herself. The project highlights her journey from theatre and films to fresh creative spaces, proving that she is much more than just an actress.Over the years, Kubbra has built a career by choosing characters that leave a lasting impact. From her breakthrough performance in Sacred Games to international projects and public speaking, she has never been afraid to step outside her comfort zone. Humanaige reflects this same spirit, presenting different sides of her personality while celebrating growth, confidence, and creativity. Speaking about her journey, Kubbra has often shared that she believes in constant learning and embracing change. Instead of following a fixed path, she prefers taking on projects that challenge her and help her grow. This mindset has made her one of the most versatile performers in the entertainment industry today.With Humanaige, Kubbra Sait continues to inspire audiences by showing that success comes from being open to change and trying new things. Whether on stage, on screen, or through creative collaborations, she keeps redefining herself and encouraging others to embrace their own unique journeys.
Published 27 Jul 2026 09:38 PM
In Q1 of FY27, PVR INOX reports a profit of ₹70.5 crore.
India's largest multiplex chain, PVR INOX, has reported a strong financial turnaround in the first quarter of FY27 by posting an adjusted net profit of ₹70.5 crore, compared to a loss of ₹33.5 crore in the same quarter last year. The impressive recovery was driven by strong box office collections, higher footfalls across cinemas, and increased spending by moviegoers on food and beverages. The company's total revenue rose nearly 12% year-on-year to ₹1,642.3 crore, reflecting growing consumer interest in the theatrical movie experience despite competition from streaming platforms. The company also recorded a significant improvement in its operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA increased by around 90% year-on-year, while operating margins improved from 8.2% to 14%. This growth was supported by successful film releases across Hindi and regional languages, improved ticket sales, premium cinema formats, and better cost management. The strong financial results indicate that PVR INOX has successfully strengthened its business after the merger of PVR and INOX and is benefiting from better operational efficiency. Another major achievement for the company is that it has become net cash positive, reporting ₹80.7 crore in net cash as of June 30, 2026. This marks a remarkable improvement from the large debt position the company carried at the time of the PVR–INOX merger. A stronger balance sheet gives the company greater financial flexibility to invest in expansion, improve cinema infrastructure, and introduce more premium movie experiences for customers. Looking ahead, PVR INOX plans to continue its growth by opening 90 to 100 new screens during FY27, focusing mainly on asset-light and capital-efficient expansion. The company expects a strong lineup of upcoming Bollywood, Hollywood, and regional films to attract more audiences in the coming quarters. Industry experts believe that if content quality remains strong and consumer demand continues, PVR INOX is well-positioned to maintain its profitability and strengthen its leadership in India's multiplex cinema industry.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:10 PM
BSP leader Randhir Beniwal, Akash Anands father-in-law, is expelled by Mayawati
New Delhi: On Sunday, Mayawati, the president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), dismissed national coordinator Randhir Singh Beniwal, father-in-law of her nephew Akash Anand, and former Rajya Sabha MP Ashok Siddharth from the party due to his lack of discipline and anti-party behaviour.The action follows the denial of rumours regarding Anand's involvement in the distribution of tickets for the Uttar Pradesh elections in 2027. Mayawati had stated on July 31 that she was personally in charge of the party's election preparations, presiding over review sessions in Lucknow, and selecting candidates. She dismissed as "completely baseless" claims that Akash Anand was choosing party nominees, stating that interviews had already taken place and that over two dozen people had been selected. Mayawati claimed on Sunday that rumours about Siddharth's return to Uttar Pradesh were a part of a "deliberate conspiracy" to confuse party members and sabotage 2027 election preparations. She declared that Siddharth had been banished immediately and would never be allowed to return.Randhir Singh Beniwal, the BSP national coordinator, was also dismissed by her due to persistent transgressions of party rules. According to party sources, Beniwal neglected to concentrate on Punjab, which is headed for elections.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:43 PM
Bihar bypoll Prashant Kishor is leading according to early indicators as the Bankipur byelection counting gets underway.
In the first rounds of vote counting, newcomer Prashant Kishor overtook adversary Neeraj Kumar of the BJP. He has won five straight rounds as of 11.30 a.m.Voting for the Bankipur Assembly bypoll in Bihar started at 8 a.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, in Patna. Everyone was watching to see if Jan Suraaj Party rookie Prashant Kishor would unseat the BJP.Nitin Nabin, the national president of the BJP, resigned after being elected to the Rajya Sabha in April, necessitating a by-election."The counting of votes for the Bankipur by-election began amid tight security arrangements," an official stated. Voter turnout in the July 30 bypoll was 34.30%, a decrease of about 7% from the 41.45% registered in the last Assembly elections. This time, there are 26 contenders in the race. In November 2025, Mr. Nabin defeated his closest opponent, Rekha Gupta of the RJD, by more than 50,000 votes to win the Assembly seat for the fifth time in a row. Mr. Gupta was once more nominated by the RJD for the by-election. The BJP, which has never lost the Assembly segment since 1995 when it was known as Patna West, has fielded low-key youth wing leader Neeraj Kumar Sinha, while Prashant Kishor, a former poll strategist who founded the Jan Suraaj Party a few years ago, is running in his maiden election.As early indications of the Bankipur Assembly by-election indicated founder Prashant Kishor leading, joyful Jan Suraaj Party members gathered at the party's camp headquarters. While closely monitoring the current vote count, followers of the former poll strategist-turned-politician raised slogans in favour of him and praised his impressive start in his first election.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:30 PM
Kiran Thadimarri is named CFO by IndiGo parent InterGlobe Aviation, while Gaurav Negi is appointed advisor.
InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo, has announced an important leadership change in its finance team. The company's Board of Directors has appointed Kiran Thadimarri as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective July 28, 2026. Before this promotion, Thadimarri served as the Deputy CFO and has been closely involved in the company's financial planning and business operations. At the same time, Gaurav Negi, who has been leading the finance function as CFO since 2022, will move into a new position as Advisor to the Managing Director. The company said this transition has been carefully planned to ensure continuity in financial leadership while allowing both executives to contribute in roles that best support IndiGo's long-term growth. The appointment comes at a significant time for IndiGo, India's largest airline, as it continues to expand its domestic and international network while also dealing with rising operating costs and increasing competition in the aviation sector. Kiran Thadimarri brings valuable experience to the role, having worked with leading organizations such as Udaan and General Electric before joining IndiGo. His understanding of the company's financial operations and strategic priorities is expected to help strengthen its financial management during a period of rapid growth. Meanwhile, Gaurav Negi will continue to play an important role by advising the Managing Director, ensuring that his knowledge and experience remain available to the company during this transition. Industry experts see this leadership change as a smooth internal succession rather than a major restructuring. Promoting an experienced executive from within the organization reflects IndiGo's focus on stability and long-term planning. The airline has recently faced pressure from higher fuel prices and reported another quarterly loss, making strong financial leadership especially important. With Kiran Thadimarri taking charge as CFO and Gaurav Negi continuing in an advisory capacity, the company aims to maintain confidence among investors, employees, and stakeholders while continuing its expansion plans and strengthening its position in India's fast-growing aviation market.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:12 PM
In a significant bureaucratic reorganisation, IRS Officer Satya Pal Kumar was appointed FIU Director.
In a major bureaucratic reshuffle, Satya Pal Kumar, an officer from the Central Information and Research Service (CIRS), has been appointed as the new Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). The appointment is part of the government’s latest administrative changes aimed at strengthening key financial and regulatory departments. Satya Pal Kumar brings experience in handling important government responsibilities and is expected to play a crucial role in improving FIU’s operations. The Financial Intelligence Unit works under the Ministry of Finance and is responsible for monitoring financial transactions, detecting money laundering activities, and helping agencies track illegal financial networks. His appointment comes at a time when financial security and transparency have become major priorities for the government. The FIU plays an important role in analysing suspicious transactions and coordinating with enforcement agencies to prevent financial crimes. The bureaucratic reshuffle includes changes across several departments, with new officers being given responsibilities to improve efficiency and governance. Kumar’s new role as FIU Director is expected to further strengthen India’s efforts in combating financial crimes and maintaining a secure financial system.
Published 27 Jul 2026 10:02 PM
The second-largest worldwide opening weekend for a new Spider-Man movie
Spider-Man: Brand New Day exceeded its expected $225 million production budget with $927 million (£687 million) in ticket sales worldwide, making it the second-biggest opening weekend ever. The superhero film, which stars real-life husband and wife Tom Holland and Zendaya, trails behind Avengers: Endgame, which made over $1.2 billion on its first weekend of release in 2019. With $335 million in box office receipts, Brand New Day also set a second-best North American record.After a spate of underperforming Marvel films in recent years, the film's good performance gives Marvel Studios a much-needed lift ahead of the much awaited release of Avengers: Doomsday in December. A few years after Spider-Man: No Way Home in 2021, Brand New Day, which debuted in theatres this week, follows Peter Parker as he fights crime in a society that has forgotten he is the masked superhero. Reviews for the most recent installment of the wildly successful franchise were overwhelmingly positive, with several praising Holland's performance as Spider-Man to date. According to distributor Sony Pictures, Brand New Day earned $572 million from over 73,000 screens outside of the US, including $121 million from China. Over the weekend, $49 million worth of tickets were sold in the UK. Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, described the debut of Brand New Day as "truly phenomenal" and expressed gratitude to viewers for "coming out and experiencing our film the way it was meant to be seen."Before Doomsday, the eagerly anticipated conclusion of several superhero story arcs following Avengers: Endgame, the movie represents Marvel's final big-screen production. Since Endgame, Marvel films have not been able to draw the same wide crowds as they did during their heyday. Although they were among the studio's lowest-grossing films, big-budget productions like The Marvels and The Thunderbolts recovered their production expenses. No Way Home has sold about $2 billion in tickets, making Spider-Man one of Marvel's most profitable franchises. Since the Covid-19 outbreak, moviegoing has decreased, hastening the transition to home-streaming services like Netflix. However, the big screen has made a sort of comeback this year, with box office receipts in North America expected to surpass $10 billion for the first time since 2019. Blockbuster hits like Toy Story 5, Michael, and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie—all of which have generated over $1 billion—helped with that. Brand New Day, which opens in July, and Christopher Nolan's adaptation of the great Greek poem, The Odyssey, are also expected to surpass $1 billion.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:29 PM
Trailer for Batwara 1947 Sunny Deol battles Pakistan once more, this time for the religion of Maa.
The trailer of Batwara 1947 has created a strong buzz among movie lovers and marks Sunny Deol’s return in another powerful role set against the backdrop of India’s Partition. While many viewers are comparing the film to Gadar, the trailer makes it clear that this story is not only about India and Pakistan but also about humanity, sacrifice, and the unconditional love of a mother. Sunny Deol plays a fearless man who stands up against violence and hatred during one of the most painful periods in history. His powerful dialogues, intense action scenes, and emotional expressions remind audiences why he is still one of Bollywood’s most loved action stars. The film is directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, reuniting him with Sunny Deol after many years, a combination that has earlier delivered memorable films. One of the biggest highlights of the trailer is its emotional message about the “religion of Maa.” Instead of focusing only on conflict, the film shows how the love, care, and sacrifices of a mother rise above every religion, border, and political divide. Veteran actress Shabana Azmi plays a central role, and her emotional scenes with Sunny Deol leave a lasting impact. The trailer also features Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal, and Karan Deol in important roles, making the story feel even more powerful. Beautiful visuals, strong background music, and heartfelt performances add depth to the film and suggest that it will be an emotional journey rather than just an action drama. Fans have reacted positively to the trailer on social media, praising Sunny Deol’s commanding screen presence and the film’s emotional storytelling. Many viewers feel that the movie carries a meaningful message of peace, compassion, and unity while portraying the pain and suffering caused by Partition. Ahead of the trailer launch, Sunny Deol also dedicated the film to his mother, saying, “Meri Maa hi mera Rab hain,” which perfectly matches the film’s emotional theme. Batwara 1947 is scheduled to release in theatres on August 14, 2026, and expectations are already high for what could become one of the biggest patriotic and emotional films of the year.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:06 PM
Jana Nayagan Box Office Collection Day 4 Updates: Vijays film struggles on Monday following an opening weekend of almost Rs 200 cr.
Thalapathy Vijay's Jana Nayagan had a powerful opening weekend, collecting more than ₹200 crore worldwide in just four days. The film enjoyed a strong response from fans, especially in Tamil Nadu, helping it cross ₹124.75 crore net at the Indian box office and around ₹217 crore worldwide gross by the end of Day 4. However, the film faced its first real challenge on Monday. After the excitement of the opening weekend, ticket sales slowed down, which is common for most big releases. While the collections were lower than Sunday, the movie still managed to hold its ground and continued to attract audiences in several key markets. Trade experts believe the Monday performance was decent enough to keep the film on a steady path. Despite mixed reviews from critics, Vijay's star power and loyal fan base have played a major role in the film's box office success. The political action drama has performed particularly well in Tamil-speaking regions and has also received a good response in overseas markets. Strong weekend earnings have given the film a solid foundation for the days ahead. The coming weekdays will be important in deciding how far Jana Nayagan can go at the box office. If it continues to maintain stable collections before new releases arrive, the film could end its theatrical run as one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of the year. Industry observers will now be watching its weekday trend closely to see whether it can keep its momentum going.
Published 27 Jul 2026 09:51 PM
Review of Jana Nayagan The pressure of being Vijays final film causes it to fall apart
Actor-turned-politician Vijay bids farewell to cinema with Jana Nayagan, a political action drama directed by H. Vinoth. As Vijay's final film before focusing on politics, expectations were extraordinarily high. While the film delivers several whistle-worthy moments, emotional fan service, and a strong political message, many critics believe it struggles to balance storytelling with its role as a farewell tribute. The story follows a fearless leader who stands up against corruption and injustice while protecting his people. The screenplay is packed with action sequences, emotional speeches, and political symbolism. However, reviewers note that the narrative often pauses to celebrate Vijay's screen persona rather than develop the plot, making the film feel more like a farewell campaign than a tightly written political thriller. Vijay's performance is widely regarded as the film's biggest strength. His commanding screen presence, powerful dialogues, emotional scenes, and action sequences remind audiences why he remains one of Tamil cinema's biggest stars. The climax, in particular, has been described as an emotional goodbye that resonated strongly with fans. Co-stars Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, and Mamitha Baiju deliver solid performances, though some critics felt their characters were underutilized. Early critical reception has been mixed. Some reviewers praised the film as an emotional send-off and a celebration of Vijay's legacy, while others criticized its predictable screenplay, lengthy runtime, and excessive fan service. Audience reactions on social media have also been divided, with many fans calling it a fitting farewell and others describing it as a missed opportunity for a stronger final film. Overall, Jana Nayagan succeeds more as a tribute to Vijay's remarkable career than as a consistently engaging political action drama. For longtime fans, it offers plenty of memorable moments and emotional satisfaction. For general audiences, however, its storytelling may feel uneven, weighed down by the pressure of delivering the perfect farewell.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:20 PM
Axis Bank is Religares pick of the month for March, 10% upside seen at TP of ₹1,185; should you buy?
Domestic brokerage firm Religare Broking has picked Axis Bank as its stock pick of the month for March 2024 with a potential upside seen around 10 per cent. Shares of Axis Bank were on an uptrend and gained around three per cent today as Nifty 50 hit a fresh lifetime high of 22,353.30 on strong macroeconomic indicators.On Friday, March 1, shares of Axis Bank opened at ₹1,074.05 and gained 2.5 per cent to hit an intra day high of ₹1,101.60 against its 52-week high of ₹1,151.50 apiece on the BSE. Shares of Axis Bank settled 2.20 per cent higher at ₹1,099.35 apiece on the BSE. At a current market price (CMP) of ₹1,085, Religare sees a potential upside of 10 per cent on Axis Bank stock at a target price of ₹1,185 from an initiation range of ₹1,080-1,085 and a stop loss of ₹1,030. Religare Broking highlights that in its report that Axis Bank has remained one among the top performer among the private banking majors and we expect the outperformance to continue. ‘’The stock has been in a primary uptrend from last more than eight months, forming series of Higher Highs and lows with gradual rise in volumes. It has formed an elevated base around the 20 weekly EMA which also coincides with rising support trend line,'' said Religare Broking. Following the price action and uptick in volumes indicates the stock to resume its prevailing trend and inch higher to surpass its previous swing high, according to the brokerage. The stock gained marginally (around three per cent) in the previous series with reduction of eight per cent open interest (OI). 98 per cent of the open positions rolled which is same with respect to previously. ‘’OI of 82k contracts as against 89k previously. Decent cash based buying also seen in last three days of February series. With fresh cash accumulation and shorts being trapped, it may witness good short covering,'' said Religare Broking. The bank's net interest income (NII) in the third quarter at ₹12,532, crore, which rose by nine per cent - almost in line with the market estimate of ₹12,555 crore. NII is the difference between interest earned by a bank through loans and interest it pays to depositors. Meanwhile, the net interest margin (NIM) stood at 4.01 percent for the quarter ended on December 31, 2023. Net Interest Margin refers to the difference between the interest income earned and the interest disbursed by a bank in relation to its interest-generating assets such as cash.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:35 PM
Potential for any re-rating delayed for Paytm, says UBS; still sees 25% upside in the stock – heres why
Shares of One 97 Communications (Paytm) have witnessed an almost 50 percent drop just in February as investor sentiment turned negative amid the RBI and Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) saga.In a recent note, brokerage house UBS said it believes that any potential for a re-rating of Paytm based on profitability improvement has been delayed. It has retained a 'neutral' call on the stock and reduced its target price to ₹510 (from ₹650 earlier). The new target indicates an over 25 percent potential upside. "Paytm's share price has derated significantly post RBI regulatory action and the stock is trading at 1.5x EV to one-year forward consensus sales, nearly an 80 percent discount to its Indian internet peers. Our ₹510 price target implies a 2.4x EV to FY25E sales, which is still a 70 percent discount to Indian internet peers. We believe this is justified as Paytm's growth profile is now much weaker at an 8 percent expected revenue CAGR over FY24-26E, versus Indian peers at a much higher 27 percent. Additionally, Paytm's re-rating potential based on its profitability improvement is now also pushed out and the company's margin profile is much weaker than peers. Furthermore, the loss of investor confidence based on the regulatory action is unlikely to change in a hurry. We believe only sustained execution in the coming quarters can re-build investor confidence which would drive a re-rating," explained the brokerage. The RBI on January 31 directed PPBL to stop accepting deposits or top-ups in customer accounts, wallets, FASTags, and other instruments after February 29, citing large-scale non-compliance with regulations and supervisory concerns. In the latest update, the Reserve Bank of India clarified that non-Paytm Payments Bank Limited (PPBL) linked merchants (85 percent of the total) can continue to function as normal and gave a 15-day extension till 15th March for most PPBL-linked activities. RBI also informed that @paytm UPI handles can be migrated to banks after approval from NPCI. This implies key linkages between Paytm and PPBL will be transferred to other banks via Paytm and also clears the way for Paytm to function as third-party app provider (TPAP), similar to its competitors PhonePe and Google Pay, once NPCI provides approval for the same. Following RBI's latest update, the anticipated negative impacts on Paytm have been alleviated to a considerable extent. Paytm is poised to retain a significant portion of its customer and merchant base pending certain approvals from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). However, UBS anticipates a churn of 15-20 percent in merchants, customers, and devices in Q4 compared to Q3 levels, accompanied by a steep decline of around 60 percent quarter-on-quarter in loan origination. Additionally, it foresees a challenging FY25 with a projected 2 percent revenue decline, attributed to the loss in the wallet business and gradual normalisation in payments and loan origination activities. To regain lost customers, Paytm is expected to escalate its marketing expenditure, leading to heightened EBITDA losses in FY25, consequently prompting adjustments in its EPS estimates.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:35 PM
Stock market selloff: Nifty forms Bearish Engulfing; 21,850 next?
Nifty on Wednesday could not sustain early gains and saw heavy selling, as it closed below the psychological mark of 22,000 for the time since February 15. The index formed a Bearish Engulfing pattern on the daily chart, which has a negative connotation. The silver lining was the index somehow managed to settle above its 21-day EMA on a closing basis. If the index stays below 22,000 level, chances are it may revisit 19,850-800 level, analysts said.“The index dropped below the 22,000 mark, indicating a growing weakness. Nevertheless, it managed to close just above the 21EMA on the daily timeframe. Observing the daily chart, the index has been navigating within a rising channel. A decline below 21,950 could potentially trigger a correction towards 21,800 in the near term,” said Rupak De, Senior Technical Analyst at LKP Securities. For the day, the 50-pack index closed at 21,951.15, down 247.20 points or 1.11 per cent. A sustained Nifty trade above 21,950 might spur a recovery in the index towards 22,100, De added. With the Bearish Engulfing candle, Nifty has given up all the gains of the previous week, said Chandan Taparia of Motilal Oswal Securities. This analyst believes that were the index say below 22000, weakness could be seen towards 21,850, followed by 21,700 levels. Resistances are seen at 22,150 and 22,222 levels, he said.atin Gedia – Technical Research Analyst at Sharekhan said that the index has reached its 20-day moving average of 21,944. He said the broad range of 21,800-22,300 still has not been breached. "The daily as well as hourly momentum indicators have a negative crossover, which is a sell signal. But prices are still in a range and, hence, a decisive breach below 21,875 i.e. the previous swing low is required to validate the change of trend. The Index is around the crucial support zone 21,900, which is likely to act as a make-or-break level from short term perspective," Gedia said.
Published 01 Mar 2024 09:34 PM
IIT Kanpur’s 1974 batch pledges Rs 10.11 crore
"The Class of 1974 of the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) has committed Rs 10.11 crore to fund a range of institute initiatives. The promise is made as part of the batch's Golden Jubilee Reunion, which will take place from February 23 to February 25, 2024, and will bring together over 80 graduates and their families. ""IIT Kanpur takes great pride in its alumni, and time and time again, our alumni have come together for supporting the growth of their alma mater through various means,"" stated Prof. S Ganesh, Director of IIT Kanpur, in response to the Class of 1974's kind pledge. The Class of 1974's commitment to support greatness at the institute by aiding in its development aligns with a shared goal He continued, ""The 'Batch Legacy Fund' will be used to enhance possibilities for both faculty and students. ""We, the proud alumni of the Class of 1974, are honored to unite and contribute to our cherished alma mater, IIT Kanpur,"" he stated, thanking his classmates for this endeavor and his alma mater, batch coordinator Yogesh Khosla. Our combined support is a testament to our great pride in the organization and our common goal of seeing it succeed moving forward. I would want to sincerely thank everyone of my classmates for their kind cooperation in this project. The Class of 1974's 50th reunion was a happy event full with memories, laughter, and introspection that will live on in the archives of IIT Kanpur, an institution thinkinh said. IIT Kanpur stated that the ""Class of 1974 Batch Legacy Fund"" will undoubtedly advance learning within its community and expressed its sincere gratitude to the Class of 1974 for their outstanding contribution and steadfast dedication. The researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will present their findings to the students during an open house. The purpose of the event is to give students a forum to interact with professionals and well-known businesspeople. March 2 and March 3 of 2024 will be dedicated to the open house. Shaastra will host IITM for Everyone. A statement on the social media account read, ""IIT Madras is open to all for the first time in 15 years."" "
Published 28 Feb 2024 05:34 PM
On paper leak fast-track courts, the BJP supports PM Modi and challenges the opposition to discuss
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to establish fast-track courts for examination paper leak cases, describing the move as a major step to protect the future of students and restore confidence in India's examination system. BJP leaders said that repeated paper leaks have harmed millions of aspirants and argued that swift trials and strict punishment are necessary to deter those involved in such crimes. The party maintained that the government's priority is to ensure justice for students and strengthen transparency in recruitment and competitive examinations. At the same time, BJP leaders challenged Opposition parties to hold a full debate in Parliament on the issue. They accused the Opposition of politicising student concerns instead of supporting legal reforms aimed at curbing paper leaks. According to the BJP, the government is willing to discuss examination reforms, accountability, and measures to prevent future leaks, while also highlighting the proposed fast-track courts as a concrete policy response rather than a political statement. The announcement comes amid ongoing protests and political criticism over recent examination paper leak incidents. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, argued that fast-track courts alone are insufficient and demanded broader accountability, including action against those responsible for administrative failures. They have continued to press for wider reforms in the examination system and questioned the government's handling of the issue. Prime Minister Modi said that "nothing is more important than the future of the youth" and assured students that those responsible for paper leaks would face speedy trials and stringent punishment. The government believes that dedicated fast-track courts will help deliver quicker justice, discourage organised examination fraud, and reinforce public trust in the country's recruitment and education systems.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:16 PM
Why Rahul Gandhi confronted the PM about the paper leak
today news that Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep The Indian Express Why Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak fight to PM’s doorstep Today India's Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi protest outside Modi's house Reuters India's Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi protest outside Modi's house Today Rahul Gandhi asks PM Modi to apologise to students over protest crackdown The Economic Times Rahul Gandhi asks PM Modi to apologise to students over protest crackdown Today On July 21, 2026, Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi led a protest towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's residence in New Delhi over the ongoing examination paper leak issue and the police action against student protesters. The Congress said the Prime Minister should directly answer students' concerns instead of remaining silent on the issue. During the protest, Rahul Gandhi and several other opposition leaders were detained by the police. Rahul Gandhi took the paper leak issue to the Prime Minister's doorstep because he argued that the controversy is not just about one examination but about the future of millions of students and job seekers across the country. He accused the central government of failing to stop repeated exam paper leaks and demanded accountability from the highest level of government. According to Congress, the Prime Minister should take responsibility for ensuring a fair and transparent examination system. The protest also came after clashes between police and student demonstrators demanding action against paper leaks and reforms in the examination system. Rahul Gandhi criticized the police action on students and asked Prime Minister Modi to apologize for the handling of the protests. Congress leaders said they would continue raising the issue both inside and outside Parliament until their demands are addressed. The government has maintained that steps are being taken to strengthen the examination system and investigate paper leak cases. However, the opposition argues that stronger action and greater accountability are needed to restore students' confidence in competitive examinations. The issue has become a major political debate, with both the government and the opposition presenting different views on how the problem should be handled.
Published 21 Jul 2026 09:57 PM
AAP must leave its headquarters by June 15th, per a Supreme Court order.
The Aam Aadmi Party of Arvind Kejriwal will have to leave its headquarters, which are located on a plot of land designated for the High Court. The good news is that you still have until June 15 to act. The Supreme Court gave the party a long deadline because of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, emphasizing that this is an encroachment case. The party may now submit an application for alternative land to the Land and Development Office of the Center.The bench, which included Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, stated, "We would request the L&DO to process the application and communicate its decision within a period of four weeks." The bench continued, "AAP has no legal right to remain on the land." The Delhi High Court was granted land in February to expand its operations and build more courtrooms for the Rouse Avenue location. The court had noticed that the AAP was intruding on this land. When considering a case involving the nation's judicial system, the highest court took notice of the issue.The state government promised at a meeting on February 15 that the plot would be removed in two months if a substitute plot was provided, in response to a court order. However, the situation remained unchanged. According to India's Chief Justice, DY Chandrachud, nobody has the authority to impose law on others. "It is absurd for any political party to sit on it. Every intrusion will be eliminated... The land should be given to the High Court so that it can be utilized by the general public and citizens, Justice Chandrachud stated.
Published 04 Mar 2024 05:31 PM
Article 21: The Constitutions Soul, with Citizens Liberty Supreme
According to the Supreme Court, Article 21 is the essence of the Constitution because it protects citizens' rights to liberty, which are so valuable that a person would lose them if the high court takes too long to decide cases pertaining to it. Amol Vithal Vahile, a prime accused in the murder of a corporator in Maharashtra, was granted bail by the Bombay High Court on January 29 following prodding from the top court, according to a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta.In a recent ruling, the bench stated that it is evident that prior to this court's order being issued on January 29, 2024, the high court had dismissed the bail application on one or more grounds rather than considering it on its merits.It goes without saying that Article 21 of the Indian Constitution is its core because it upholds the fundamental right to liberty for all citizens. It stated, "Depriving the party of their precious right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India would mean not reaching a quick decision and brushing off the issue on one or the other basis pertaining to a citizen's liberty." The bench stated that it has encountered numerous cases from the Bombay High Court in which the applications for bail and anticipatory bail were not resolved promptly. The bench mentioned one instance where the application for anticipatory bail was pending for over four years. "We have also encountered many cases where the judges find an excuse to reroute the case on unrelated grounds rather than rendering a decision based on the merits of the case. As a result, we ask the chief justice of the Bombay High Court to communicate our request to all judges who have criminal jurisdiction so that the issue of bail and anticipatory bail can be decided as soon as possible," the bench stated.It requested that the Supreme Court's Registrar (Judicial) forward this directive to the High Court's Registrar (Judicial), who will present it to the Bombay High Court's chief justice. The bench stated on January 29 that, despite the fact that Vahile had been detained for more than seven years, on March 30, 2023, the high court had ordered him to appear before the trial court for regular bail.
Published 02 Mar 2024 06:02 PM
What your scalp might be trying to tell you about why your dandruff keeps returning
Dandruff is one of the most common scalp problems, affecting millions of people worldwide. While many assume it is simply caused by a dry scalp, experts say recurring dandruff often points to a more complex issue. If white flakes continue to return even after using anti-dandruff shampoos, your scalp may be signaling an imbalance that needs more than a temporary fix. Factors such as excess oil production, fungal overgrowth, stress, weather changes, and even diet can contribute to persistent dandruff. One of the primary causes of recurring dandruff is the overgrowth of a naturally occurring yeast called Malassezia. This fungus lives on everyone's scalp but can multiply rapidly when excess oil is present. As it feeds on scalp oils, it produces by-products that irritate the skin, leading to itching, redness, and flaking. Individuals with oily scalps are particularly prone to this cycle, which explains why dandruff often returns soon after treatment is stopped. Your scalp can also reflect your overall health. Dermatologists note that persistent dandruff may indicate conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, or sensitivity to certain hair-care products. If dandruff is accompanied by severe itching, inflammation, yellowish flakes, or patches of redness, it is advisable to seek medical advice rather than relying solely on over-the-counter shampoos. Treating the underlying condition is often the key to achieving long-term relief.Lifestyle habits play a significant role as well. High stress levels can weaken the body's natural defenses, making the scalp more susceptible to irritation and fungal growth. Poor sleep, an unhealthy diet lacking essential nutrients such as zinc and B vitamins, and inadequate hydration may also worsen scalp health. Experts recommend maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support healthy skin and scalp function.
Published 06 Jul 2026 05:07 PM
A Significant Return for Marc Jacobs Beauty
Luxury makeup brand Marc Jacobs Beauty has officially returned in 2026 after being discontinued in 2021, marking one of the most talked-about beauty industry comebacks of the year. The brand relaunched with an entirely new collection of makeup products, including lipsticks, blush sticks, bronzers, eyeliners, mascaras, eyeshadows, and highlighters. The comeback is being led in partnership with Coty Inc., with products launching online and through Sephora stores.Beauty enthusiasts and industry experts have responded positively to the relaunch. The new collection features playful heart, star, and daisy-inspired packaging while maintaining the bold, high-performance formulas that made the original brand popular. Several products, particularly the Heart On Lipstick, Drawn This Way Eyeliner, and Born Star Eyeshadow, have generated strong demand and early sell-outs.Industry analysts view the return as a strategic move in the premium beauty market, where consumers are increasingly seeking distinctive brands with strong creative identities. Marc Jacobs himself recently described the relaunch as a modern reinvention rather than a revival of the old line, emphasizing individuality and self-expression as the brand's core philosophy.
Published 04 Jun 2026 06:02 PM
The days of microbladed eyebrows are over but are they reversible
Our eyebrows have seen more changes than any other feature. Brows have seen it all, from the thin, pencil-style brows of the year 2000 to the fuller, laminated look of today. But one thing hasn't changed: if you get your eyebrows correct, half of your appearance is taken care of.Microbladed eyebrows were commonplace for a very long period. Because the fad promised bigger, more natural-looking brows with less daily work, celebrities, influencers, and regular people loved it. For many, it provided a long-term solution for uneven or sparse eyebrows. But beauty trends change quickly, and what was once considered contemporary and attractive is now beginning to feel antiquated. Many people are starting to reconsider their previous microblading decisions as softer, more natural brows become more popular.In essence, microblading is a cosmetic tattooing method in which pigment is manually applied to the skin's surface to simulate eyebrow hair. According to Dr. Ruby Sachdev, an aesthetician and consultant at Gleneagles Hospital in Bengaluru, it became well-liked by those who want larger eyebrows without using makeup every day.
Published 03 Jun 2026 09:52 PM
Benefits of Sattu Indias first protein beverage
These days, a growing number of individuals are including tasty and nourishing "superfoods" from all over the world in their diets. Imagine those colorful matcha lattes, creamy avocado toasts, delicious chia pudding, quinoa salads, and cool kale smoothies. They are healthy in addition to being aesthetically pleasing. Just a gentle reminder: Is it really necessary to spend a lot of money to maintain your health?No, I believe! Sattu is an ancient superfood from India that is tasty, affordable, and very potent. This adaptable component, which is made from roasted gram flour, has been loved and consumed for more than 3,000 years, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Chana sattu, once cherished by diligent farmers for a rapid energy boost, is now widely accepted as a wholesome and organic supplement to contemporary meals nationwide. Let's examine the advantages of sattu powder, how it outperforms the most well-liked protein-rich foods, and why it should be at the top of your diet list before you hurry to try another foreign health craze.A traditional Indian flour produced from roasted barley or chickpeas is called sattu powder. In India, it is a native source of protein. It is a well-liked superfood with several health advantages due to its high protein content. Sattu, sometimes referred to as the "desi protein shake," is high in minerals, fiber, and plant-based protein. It is a popular dish in India that is becoming more and more well-known abroad.
Published 08 May 2026 06:04 PM
Ek bihari sab pe bhari Virat Kohli gives Vaibhav Sooryavanshi particular recognition
Virat Kohli's heartfelt praise for young Bihar cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has become one of the most talked-about moments after the IPL 2026 season. Following Royal Challengers Bengaluru's title-winning campaign, Kohli met the 15-year-old sensation and shared words of encouragement that quickly went viral on social media.In a video released by RCB, Kohli advised Vaibhav to stay focused on hard work and self-belief rather than outside opinions. He told the youngster that his success had come through dedication and confidence and urged him to keep aiming higher. The highlight of the conversation was Kohli's special line, "Ek Bihari, sab pe bhari", praising the Bihar-born batter for his remarkable performances throughout IPL 2026. .Vaibhav emerged as one of the biggest stars of the tournament, earning widespread admiration for his fearless batting and maturity at such a young age. His performances attracted praise from former cricketers and fans alike, with many viewing him as one of Indian cricket's brightest future prospects.The interaction between Kohli and Vaibhav was widely appreciated by cricket fans, who saw it as a passing-of-the-torch moment between one of India's greatest batters and a rising teenage talent. Kohli's message of humility, hard work, and self-belief has since been shared extensively across social media platforms.
Published 04 Jun 2026 05:53 PM
Virat Kohli changes once more incorporating elements of Abhishek and Sooryavanshi into his game
The cameras showed Kohli putting his arm over Sooryavanshi's shoulder and conversing with him for several minutes. Although the topic of the talk is unknown, rest assured that Sooryavanshi returned home much wealthier than he would have if he had only received a few honors. Less than a day has passed since Sooryavanshi was recommended for Test cricket by none other than the great Sachin Tendulkar. He had also complimented his batting style earlier.It is important to note that earlier in the 2026 IPL season, Kohli signed Sooryavanshi's cap and gave him an autograph after the left-handed hitter destroyed the RCB bowlers all over the field during the match at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati.Sooryavanshi won five awards when the IPL 2026 concluded. The 15-year-old was named Super Striker, Super Sixes of the Season, Orange Cap, Emerging Player of the Season, and Most Valuable Player. Sooryavanshi broke Chris Gayle's record for the most maximums in a single IPL season with 72 sixes during the 19th T20 competition. In the competition, he also became the fastest Indian to reach 1000 runs. In addition, he became the youngest player in the tournament to hit 1000 runs, surpassing Rishabh Pant.Sooryavanshi acknowledged that he would need to improve his fitness going forward if he wanted to have a lengthy career after receiving so many honors. "I need to improve my fitness if I want to avoid getting hurt. Everyone is really encouraging. In an interview with Ravi Shastri, Sooryavanshi stated, "Everyone supports me, including the senior players and support staff. It's a good atmosphere." Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar has praised Sooryavanshi as well. According to the renowned Indian hitter, the young player possesses all the necessary skills to participate in the game's longest format.In relation to Sooryavanshi, the next tri-series in Sri Lanka will include him. The left-hander will play for India A against Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A.In relation to Sooryavanshi, the next tri-series in Sri Lanka will include him. The left-hander will play for India A against Afghanistan A and Sri Lanka A.
Published 02 Jun 2026 10:57 PM
For the first time in an IPL season Indian hitters outpace foreign batters
IPL 2026 had the highest batting strike rate of any season at 156.34. For the first time in an IPL season, Indian hitters (157.10) scored more runs than foreign batters (154.71). 237.30 strike rate, 776 runs, and 72 sixes In an IPL season, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became just the second hitter to score the most runs, hit the most sixes, and have the greatest strike rate (minimum 50 balls faced). Like Sooryavanshi, Chris Gayle was named Most Valuable Player in 2011.In the previous nine seasons, none of the highest run-scorers were among the top 15 strike rates in that season. The difference between Sooryavanshi's IPL 2026 run total and the next highest total for a batsman with a strike rate of 235 or more in any IPL season (Romario Shepherd's 70 runs in 2025) is 706 runs. IPL 2026 saw 65 totals of 200 or more, the highest in a T20 competition and 13 more than the previous record of 52 in IPL 2025. Individual teams also set new records in IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) all scored nine runs of 200 or more, the most in a Twenty20 competition.In terms of bowling, PBKS and RR gave up 200-plus totals nine times, which is also the most in a Twenty20 competition. IPL 2026 saw the highest number of sixes struck in a season, 1426, up 10.2% from the previous record of 1294 sixes in 2025. Thanks to 72 sixes from Sooryavanshi, who established the individual record for most sixes in a T20 competition, RR struck 181 sixes, the most of any team in a T20 event.
Published 01 Jun 2026 09:34 PM
Ramakrishna Ghoshs injury has been replaced by Macneil Noronha.
Macneil Noronha, an all-rounder from Karnataka who recently won the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman awards for being the highest run-getter in the 2024/25 Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy, will join Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 30 lakh as a replacement for Ramakrishna Ghosh, who injured his right foot during their game against Mumbai Indians on May 3rd and is out for the season. He will not play this season.Macneil Noronha will take Ghosh's place at CSK for INR 30 lakh.Noronha, a Karnataka all-rounder, has won the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman Awards for scoring the most runs in the Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy for 2024–2025. Noronha was called up by the Karnataka team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy after an outstanding season, and he played in three games for his state.For the remainder of the 2026 Indian Premier League season, the Chennai Super Kings have selected Karnataka all-rounder Macneil Noronha to replace injured uncapped player Ramakrishna Ghosh.He was called up to Karnataka's Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy squad as a result of his domestic achievements, and he played in three games. Noronha made an impressive 34 off 21 deliveries in his most recent match against Tripura in December 2025. He also contributed a wicket. The move comes after Ghosh was sidelined for the rest of the season due to a right foot injury he sustained during Chennai's match against Mumbai Indians on May 3. Ghosh had just made his eagerly anticipated IPL debut in that match, contributing to Chennai's decisive eight-wicket victory. Introduced into the attack in a high-pressure match, the young player returned figures of 1 for 24 from his three overs, taking the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, who had looked dangerous after reaching 21 off just 12 balls. In that match, Ghosh made his eagerly anticipated IPL debut and contributed to Chennai's convincing eight-wicket victory. The youthful player, who was brought into the attack in a high-stress match, recorded figures of 1 for 24 from his three overs, taking the crucial wicket of Suryakumar Yadav, who had appeared dangerous after reaching 21 off only 12 balls.Chennai will be hoping that Noronha will offer valuable depth as they continue to strive for a play-off position in spite of the setback.
Published 13 May 2026 05:46 PM
There are five main reasons why Prashant Kishor will defeat the BJP in Bankipur.
Prashant Kishor, a former poll strategist who is now a politician, has an early advantage in the Bihar seat of Bankipur. Neeraj Kumar of the BJP is his nearest opponent. According to the most recent Election Commission figures, Kishor received 31,742 votes after Round 16 counting, while Kumar trailed him by more than 8,966 votes. Ghanshyam Singh of the Congress has more than 38,000 seats in Datia, Madhya Pradesh, while Ashutosh Tiwari of the BJP is behind by 6,500 votes. The final round of counting in Manjalpur, Gujarat, has given Satendrabhai Patel of the BJP a commanding lead of more than 29,000 votes.Since the widespread nationwide student protests over the paper leaks, these are the first elections. It is anticipated that the results would reflect the sentiment of the nation, particularly among young voters. No BJP candidate has ever lost from Bankipur, the party's stronghold. Nitin Nabin, the leader of the BJP, was the last person to occupy the position before he was elected to the Rajya Sabha. However, a hitch in the BJP camp and the long-awaited arrival of Prashant Kishor in the electoral arena will make this election noteworthy.BJP candidate Abhishek Kumar Sinha withdrew last month, citing "family reasons," just one day after submitting his nomination papers. Neeraj Kumar Sinha, a leader of the youth wing, was then selected as the BJP's candidate. In the opposition camp, it had caused a great deal of laughter. Its leaders mocked the BJP by claiming that the party was "jittery at the prospects of a defeat" in the seat that the party chairman had left empty.
Published 03 Aug 2026 04:45 PM
2 big reasons why Left thinks it lost Kerala Vijayan, soft Hindutva
L&T Realty has announced two important leadership appointments to strengthen its management team and support the company's future growth plans. The company has appointed Navneet Kaul as Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO), while Rishi Kailash Bansal has been appointed as Executive Director and Head of Land and Logistics Development. Both appointments have taken effect immediately and are expected to play a key role in driving the company's expansion across residential, commercial, and logistics real estate projects. Navneet Kaul has been associated with L&T Realty for several years and has contributed to the successful execution of many major projects. As the new Chief Operating Officer, he will oversee the company's day-to-day operations, improve project delivery, and help maintain high standards of quality and customer satisfaction. His experience in managing large real estate developments is expected to support the company's long-term growth strategy. At the same time, Rishi Kailash Bansal will lead the land acquisition and logistics development business. His role will focus on identifying new development opportunities, strengthening the company's land portfolio, and expanding its presence in the rapidly growing logistics and industrial real estate sector. These appointments reflect L&T Realty's commitment to building a strong leadership team capable of meeting future business opportunities and delivering sustainable growth.
Published 28 Jul 2026 06:13 PM
Mahua Moitra, a TMC MP, asks the HC to safeguard her from being thrown eggs.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Mahua Moitra has approached the Calcutta High Court seeking protection after alleging that eggs are being hurled at her during public appearances in West Bengal. According to her petition, such incidents have repeatedly taken place wherever she travels in her constituency, causing humiliation and disrupting her ability to perform her duties as an elected Member of Parliament. Through her lawyer, Moitra requested the court to direct the police to provide adequate security and prevent further attacks. During the hearing on Thursday, the Calcutta High Court said it would take up the matter on July 29. Moitra's counsel argued that despite an earlier court direction to prevent such incidents, the police had failed to take effective action. While an FIR has reportedly been registered, the petition claims that the lack of adequate police protection has allowed repeated acts of intimidation to continue. The court heard submissions from the state authorities before adjourning the matter to the next hearing date. The plea comes after a series of political confrontations in Nadia district, where Moitra has alleged that BJP supporters targeted her with eggs and other objects during protests. BJP leaders have denied the allegations, and the matter has become part of the ongoing political tensions between the ruling TMC and the opposition in West Bengal. The High Court's upcoming hearing is expected to determine whether additional security measures or further directions to the police are required.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:26 PM
On paper leak fast-track courts, the BJP supports PM Modi and challenges the opposition to discuss
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to establish fast-track courts for examination paper leak cases, describing the move as a major step to protect the future of students and restore confidence in India's examination system. BJP leaders said that repeated paper leaks have harmed millions of aspirants and argued that swift trials and strict punishment are necessary to deter those involved in such crimes. The party maintained that the government's priority is to ensure justice for students and strengthen transparency in recruitment and competitive examinations. At the same time, BJP leaders challenged Opposition parties to hold a full debate in Parliament on the issue. They accused the Opposition of politicising student concerns instead of supporting legal reforms aimed at curbing paper leaks. According to the BJP, the government is willing to discuss examination reforms, accountability, and measures to prevent future leaks, while also highlighting the proposed fast-track courts as a concrete policy response rather than a political statement. The announcement comes amid ongoing protests and political criticism over recent examination paper leak incidents. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, argued that fast-track courts alone are insufficient and demanded broader accountability, including action against those responsible for administrative failures. They have continued to press for wider reforms in the examination system and questioned the government's handling of the issue. Prime Minister Modi said that "nothing is more important than the future of the youth" and assured students that those responsible for paper leaks would face speedy trials and stringent punishment. The government believes that dedicated fast-track courts will help deliver quicker justice, discourage organised examination fraud, and reinforce public trust in the country's recruitment and education systems.
Published 23 Jul 2026 05:16 PM
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Finance & Stock Market Trend
All Trending News in India
HUL Q3 preview: Price cuts may hit topline, weak festive demand to limit volumes
FMCG leader Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) is expected to report flat sales and volume growth in the December quarter of the current financial year with price cuts hitting the topline and a weak pick-up in festival demand impacting volumes. HUL’s EBITDA margin is expected to increase 77 basis points to 24.1 percent. Brokerages expect a 470 basis points YoY increase in gross margins as input costs like palm oil, tea, and coffee declined.EBITDA is short for earnings before interest, tax depreciation and amortisation. One basis points is one-hundredth of a percentage point.Volumes have remained weak for the lifebuoy and Dove manufacturer since the September quarter of the previous financial year, ranging from 2-5 percent. Volume growth has been slow due to a weak pick-up in rural demand even as small and regional players eat into its market share.The company's home-care category is expected to report a modest 0.5 percent growth in sales YoY due to price cuts in the laundry portfolio, Kotak Institutional Equities said in its Q3FY24 results update.The personal care and food and refreshments category is estimated to grow 3.5 percent and 3 percent YoY, respectively, BNP Paribas said. FMCG leader Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) is expected to report flat sales and volume growth in the December quarter of the current financial year with price cuts hitting the topline and a weak pick-up in festival demand impacting volumes.HUL’s EBITDA margin is expected to increase 77 basis points to 24.1 percent. Brokerages expect a 470 basis points YoY increase in gross margins as input costs like palm oil, tea, and coffee declined.EBITDA is short for earnings before interest, tax depreciation and amortisation. One basis points is one-hundredth of a percentage point.Volumes have remained weak for the lifebuoy and Dove manufacturer since the September quarter of the previous financial year, ranging from 2-5 percent. Volume growth has been slow due to a weak pick-up in rural demand even as small and regional players eat into its market share.The company's home-care category is expected to report a modest 0.5 percent growth in sales YoY due to price cuts in the laundry portfolio, Kotak Institutional Equities said in its Q3FY24 results update. The price of palm oil, an essential raw material for the FMCG sector, fell fallen 10 percent YoY and 3 percent QoQ in the December quarter, Kotak Institutional Equities said. Palm Oil is used in making soaps, shampoos, biscuits, and other products.In its last earnings call, HUL said it was facing competition from local players in the tea and laundry categories. Tea prices have fallen further, which may lead to increased competition, analysts say. In a situation of easing inflation, small players start entering the market and gain market share from big and listed players.Advertising and promotional spends for the FMCG company is estimated to be around 10 percent of Q3FY24 sales, BNP Paribas said.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:24 PM
HDFC Bank tremors rock banking stocks, Nifty Bank plunges 4%
Banking stocks saw heavy selling on January 17, as all 12 Nifty Bank index names traded with cuts in the afternoon after negative commentary on heavyweight HDFC Bank's below-par December numbers weighed heavy on sentiment for the sector. HDFC Bank, which takes up over 29 percent of weightage in Nifty Bank, plunged nearly 7 percent, putting pressure on the sectoral index, which was down nearly 4 percent. The weakness also rubbed off on other lenders, pulling them down by up to 4 percent. Other index heavyweights, IndusInd Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, SBI and Axis Bank, which have a cumulative weightage of nearly 49 percent in Nifty Bank, lost 2-4 percent. HDFC's Q3 net profit came largely in-line with Moneycontrol's estimates but there was a twist. Brokerage firm Jefferies noted that the net profit was lifted with a lower tax expense in the third quarter. Brokerage firm Citi also issued a cautious outlook for private lenders, as it lowered FY25/26 net interest margin estimates for Kotak Mahindra Bank, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Federal Bank and ICICI Bank.The firm said that quarterly business updates reflected further loan-to-deposit expansion and loan-to-credit contraction, which points towards further downside to net interest margin.The brokerage downgraded state-lender SBI to “sell” and lowering its price target for the stock by over 14 percent to Rs 600. Citi also initiated a 90-day negative catalyst on SBI. It also downgraded Federal Bank to “neutral” and reduced the target price by 20.5 percent to Rs 135.Manish Gunwani, fund manager at Bandhan AMC, warned against being overweight on private banks, saying the segment doesn't offer great risk-reward at the current juncture. Banking stocks saw heavy selling on January 17, as all 12 Nifty Bank index names settled with sharp cuts after negative commentary on heavyweight HDFC Bank's below-par December numbers weighed heavy on sentiment for the sector. HDFC Bank, which takes up over 29 percent of weightage in Nifty Bank, dived over 8 percent, putting pressure on the sectoral index, which was down 4.3 percent. The weakness also rubbed off on other lenders, pulling them down by up to 4 percent.HDFC's Q3 net profit came largely in-line with Moneycontrol's estimates but there was a twist. Brokerage firm Jefferies noted that the net profit was lifted with a lower tax expense in the third quarter.Other index heavyweights, IndusInd Bank, ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, SBI and Axis Bank, which have a cumulative weightage of nearly 49 percent in Nifty Bank, lost 2-4 percent.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:23 PM
Ram temple tourism: Hospitality, travel industries create up to 20,000 jobs in Ayodhya
A surge in tourist inflows has already increased demand for accommodation and travel, “leading to a significant upswing in Ayodhya’s hospitality sector, with a particular focus on the establishment of adequate infrastructure to host travellers”, he said. “At least 10,000 jobs and up to about 20,000 positions were created in various roles related to hospitality, travel and tourism – including hotel staff, cooks, servers, drivers, etc. in the last six months,” said Balasubramanian A, vice president and head - consumer & ecommerce at TeamLease. According to several officials in the hospitality sector, thousands of jobs in areas such as hospitality managers, restaurant and hotel staff, logistics managers, drivers, etc are likely to open up towards the end of this year or the first half of 2025 – not just in Ayodhya but in neighbouring cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, Gorakhpur, etc - with hotel companies and restaurant owners keeping a close eye on how the demand-supply situation pans out.“In the next three-four months, we should get a clearer picture of the everyday traffic at the temple and the demand for manpower to cater to the devotees,” an industry executive said on condition of anonymity. According to estimates, Tirupati Balaji Temple, which is among the world’s richest temples and remains crowded all year round, attracts an average 50,000 daily devotees in a steady state and the number goes up to 100,000 on festival days or holidays.According to various estimates, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is likely to see traffic of between 300,000 to 700,000 people in the first week post inauguration.However, most of these jobs are temporary in nature and the count may go up or down, depending on how the demand pans out and the number of devotees that visit the temple, industry experts said. Typically, a hotel from construction stage to getting operational takes about 3-4 years, said Nandivardhan Jain, chief executive of Noesis Capital Advisors. Typically, a hotel from construction stage to getting operational takes about 3-4 years, said Nandivardhan Jain, chief executive of Noesis Capital Advisors. However, in the case of Ayodhya, various permissions could be fast-tracked and, so, the demand for manpower is expected to pour in within the next 18 to 24 months, he added.Hotel companies are watching how the demand-supply situation pans out. Currently Ayodhya is short in supply with only two big, branded hotels – Park Inn by Radisson and Cygnet.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:23 PM
Budget 2024: A pressing issue that may not wait till full budget
The fiscal deficit target of 5.3% will be set by the government in FY25, keeping in view the fiscal consolidation path till FY26, as it normalises capital spending and refrains from any major announcements in the interim budget before the general elections, Icra and Barclays economists have said. ICRA expects the fiscal deficit target for FY25 to be set at 5.3% of GDP, midway through the expected print of 6.0% for FY2024 and the medium-term target of sub-4.5% by FY26. India's Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, which has 34% of its market in rural areas, is a good indicator of rural economic health. It is facing challenges in rural areas due to sluggish demand. The deficiency in rainfall in key agricultural states has disrupted the revival of rural demand seen in the first two quarters of the financial year. President of All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation, Dhairyashil Patil, has told TOI that FMCG sales in rural areas are 20-30% lower than usual. Demand for daily household products and groceries continued to be challenging in villages during October-December quarter, potentially hurting volume growth of the overall consumer goods sector. Godrej Consumer Products said demand trends in the fast-moving consumer sector during the third quarter were like the earlier quarter, while Marico said urban markets stayed steady but rural markets offered little cheer."High rural unemployment, along with demand for NREGS, reflects rural stress. El Nino derailed the initial green shoots seen at the start of FY24. Increased aggression of smaller players and alternative avenues of spending such as higher spends on education, medical, telecom charges, are leading to softer growth in the FMCG sector," Abneesh Roy, executive director at Nuvama Institutional Equities, has said. Consumer goods companies and analysts say demand for daily groceries and personal and home products in villages continued to trail urban growth in the December quarter but expect a steady recovery across markets on improving macro indicators, positive consumer sentiment and, importantly, increase in government spending in the election year.Another marker of rural distress is stiff demand for work under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. The budgetary outlay of Rs 60,000 crore for the shceme for fiscal 2024 was exhausted by November itself. The government subsequently provided Rs 10,000 crore in urgent assistance to meet demand.The FMCG companies have high hopes from election-year spending that will spur rural consumption. "During an election year, governments often extends benefits which are provided as part of various schemes, offer sops, helping rural households," said Akshay D'souza, chief of growth and insights at retail intelligence platform Bizom.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:19 PM
Cyprus faces backlash over use of British bases to bomb Houthis
The Cyprus government is facing growing criticism over British military bases on the island being used by UK and US forces to stage airstrikes on Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.President Nicos Christodoulides has been accused by activists of turning a blind eye to the risks the EU’s most easterly state might confront if the strategic facilities on the island continue to be deployed in military operations.The Guardian has learned that both the US ambassador and British high commissioner briefed the Cypriot president of imminent military action in Yemen before the first round of airstrikes last week.“There are ever more war planes taking off every day,” Tassos Costeas, a prominent Greek Cypriot peace activist, told the Guardian. “The dangers of Cyprus becoming a target are evident. The two installations, retained by the British after the country won independence in 1960 to end decades of colonial rule, operate as sovereign overseas territories beyond the reach of the republic. Both extend across 3% of Cyprus’s land mass, or 98 sq miles.Although never confirmed, EU diplomats in Nicosia, the island’s war-split capital, say US forces are present on the military installation. “If you look over the fence at Akrotiri you’ll see US military surveillance and other aircraft,” one said.On Tuesday, the Cyprus government’s spokesperson, Konstantinos Letymbiotis, emphasised the eastern Mediterranean island was not involved in any military operations, intimating that under the bases’ treaty of establishment, the UK was not obliged to inform Cypriot authorities about activity in the facilities. “The government is in constant communication with the UK within the framework established in relation to the bases’ use,” he said.Protests mounted last week after RAF Akrotiri was used as a launch pad for Typhoon fighter jets conducting targeted airstrikes on Houthi strongholds in Yemen in retaliation for attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The pro-Palestinian militia has justified its assaults – with one of its missiles recently hitting a Greek-owned cargo ship – by saying it was acting in response to Israel’s ongoing offensive. In an apparent attempt to calm nerves in Cyprus, the British defence minister, Grant Shapps, was on the island on Friday meeting the president. “We want to do everything possible to ensure the security of Cyprus, which is in everyone’s best interests. We appreciate that you are in a difficult neighbourhood and want to do everything possible to make it easier,” he said. The Houthis, he claimed, “do not pose an immediate threat to Cyprus”.The US and UK strikes have exacerbated concerns of the Israel-Gaza war becoming a wider regional conflagration. Washington and London have vowed to continue the airstrikes if necessary. Cypriot activists say they are deeply concerned the British bases may also be used by the US and UK to send military aid to Israel, a claim neither country has confirmed.At Sunday’s protest, demonstrators chanted “out with the bases of death” outside the entrance of RAF Akrotiri, close to the coastal city of Limassol in the island’s south.Within weeks of the Hamas attack, Israel’s Haaretz newspaper reported that “more than 40 US transport aircraft, 20 British transport aircraft and seven heavy transport helicopters [had] arrived at the British Akrotiri base on the island. They carried equipment, arms and forces.”
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:15 PM
South Korea crowd crush: Seoul police chief charged over Halloween disaster in which 158 died
Seoul’s chief of police has been charged with professional negligence over the deadly Halloween crush in 2022 that killed nearly 160 people, prosecutors in the South Korean capital have said.Kim Kwang-ho, head of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency (SMPA), was charged with professional negligence resulting in injury or death, Seoul’s western district prosecutors’ office said in a statement released on Friday.As the chief of the SMPA, it is alleged he “did not take necessary measures, such as deploying sufficient police forces and ensuring proper command and supervision” on the day of the crush, the statement claimed, although he was able to “foresee potential dangers arising” from overcrowding in the nightlife area.Kim, the highest-ranking police official to face trial over the tragedy, was charged without detention.On 29 October 2022, tens of thousands of people – mostly in their 20s and 30s – had been out to enjoy post-pandemic holiday celebrations in Seoul’s Itaewon nightlife district. But the night turned deadly when people poured into a narrow, sloping alleyway between bars and clubs, leading to a crowd crush.In January last year, Kim and 22 other officials from the police, rescue and district offices were referred to prosecutors by a special police investigation team for their alleged involvement in the government’s mishandling of the crush. Prosecutors subsequently charged the heads of the police station in Seoul’s Yongsan district, which includes Itaewon, and the Yongsan Ward office, but had been undecided about charging Kim for more than a year.Friday’s statement alleged Kim, “along with the chief of the Yongsan police station and the head of the Yongsan Ward office who are currently on trial, collectively caused the deaths of 158 individuals and injuries to 312 individuals as a result of professional negligence”.Families of the victims said they regretted the prosecution’s lengthy decision-making process before charging Kim.“Chief Kim must immediately step down from his position and face trial,” the families said in a statement. “President Yoon Suk-yeol must dismiss Kim immediately.”Here in the UK, the prime minister, Rishi Sunak, had promised us a government of stability and competence – not forgetting professionalism, integrity and accountability – after the rollercoaster ride of Boris Johnson and Liz Truss. Remember Liz? These days she seems like a long forgotten comedy act. Instead, Sunak took us even further through the looking-glass into the Conservative psychodrama. Elsewhere, the picture has been no better. In the US, Donald Trump is now many people’s favourite to become president again. In Ukraine, the war has dragged on with no end in sight. The danger of the rest of the world getting battle fatigue and losing interest all too apparent. Then there is the war in the Middle East and not forgetting the climate crisis …But a new year brings new hope. There are elections in many countries, including the UK and the US. We have to believe in change. That something better is possible. The Guardian will continue to cover events from all over the world and our reporting now feels especially important. But running a news gathering organisation doesn’t come cheap.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:13 PM
Can Japan do what ISROs Chandrayaan-3 did? All eyes on first moon landing of 2024
A successful soft landing of the Smart Lander on the lunar surface would put Japan in exclusive company, with just the US, USSR, China and India managing the feat already. Japan hopes to shake off a string of major setbacks to its space ambitions with an attempt to land a lander on the moon’s surface early Saturday morning.A successful soft landing of the Smart Lander on the lunar surface would put Japan in exclusive company, with just the US, Russia, China and India managing the feat already. Japan beat arch-rival China in launching its first satellite in 1970 but has since taken a back seat to a series of high-profile Chinese space successes. That includes the world’s first ever soft landing on the far side of the moon in 2019, and landing on Mars in 2021. India has eclipsed Japan, too, succeeding in a second attempt last August by landing near the lunar south pole. For Japan, landing on the moon has been even tougher to crack. Its space agency, JAXA, lost contact with a lunar lander in late 2022, while Tokyo-based Ispace Inc. also suffered a communication failure with a craft bound for the moon last April. Other setbacks include the botched debut of JAXA’s H3 heavy-lift rocket, which failed after takeoff last March and hasn’t flown since. Meanwhile, JAXA’s smaller Epsilon rocket is grounded, too, following an explosion in October 2022.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:11 PM
Galaxy S24 Ultra vs Pixel 8 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro Max: The big 3 flagships compared
The heavyweight champions of smartphones go head-to-head! We compare the S24 Ultra, Pixel 8 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Samsung’s latest flagship, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, has finally arrived on the scene. For those of you scratching your heads over which flagship phone to invest your cash in, the choices available on the market today could not get much better. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, Pixel 8 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max are easily three of the most drool-worthy handsets out there at the moment.However, with more choices comes tougher decision-making. The short answer is that there’s no clearly superior option. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into identifying the key features that make each of these three smartphone heavyweights stand out from the crowd. This way, you can better analyze which one aligns best with your preferences. Starting with the exterior, none of these three phone models go crazy overboard when it comes to flashy design elements, but instead feature sleek, minimalistic aesthetic looks. Through very savvy marketing and brand image building, they have also each managed to establish instant visual recognition for their rear camera modules. The simple yet iconic floating camera lenses immediately scream “Samsung!” to consumers, while the elongated horizontal camera bar is synonymous with the Pixel brand. And of course, the iPhone’s distinctive triple camera array meticulously arranged in a floral-inspired pattern is quintessentially Apple. However, there are some clear distinctions. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is designed to for stylus use and thus has a squarish design that maximises the screen real estate you get. The phone also features a massive 6.8-inch display, the biggest out of the three, and resultantly is the widest, thickest, and heaviest out of the three. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max have very similar dimensions with their 6.7-inch displays. Ultimately, the Pixel 8 Pro comes up on top in terms of in-hand comfort thanks to rounded edges and a weight of 213 grams vs the boxier and heavier design of the iPhone 15 Pro Max. In terms of materials, it’s worth noting that both the Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max feature ultra-sturdy titanium alloy frames, while the Pixel 8 Pro sticks with the more conventional but still durable aluminum composition. Titanium is well known for its unmatched strength, but in reality, the difference may not necessarily be noticeable during average everyday use. For those who prioritise display size over all else, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is the clear standout choice, as it offers the highest pixel density out of the three models, and can also blast out a downright dazzling peak brightness of up to 2600 nits. Despite the Galaxy S24 Ultra being outfitted with one of the fastest mobile processors currently available, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it still can’t hold a candle to the power of the A17 Pro chip integrated into the iPhone 15 Pro Max. From synthetic benchmarks to real-world usage, the A17 Pro processor simply runs merciless laps around Qualcomm’s silicon, thanks in large part to Apple’s vertically integrated software and hardware optimisations from the chip level all the way up to the operating system. The Google Tensor G3 utilised by the Pixel 8 Pro comes in a distant third place out of the three when it comes to processing muscle. In day-to-day use, you may not notice much of a difference, but when it comes to gaming, most developers still heavily prioritise optimisation for the iPhone and Galaxy chipsets alone, often leaving the Tensor-powered Pixels with second-rate performance.Despite packing in a noticeably smaller sized 4,441 mAh battery compared to the chunky 5,050 mAh and 5,000 mAh units found in the Pixel 8 Pro and Galaxy S24 Ultra models respectively, the iPhone 15 Pro Max still manages to come out on top in terms of power efficiency and overall battery life. Although the S24 Ultra has not yet been independently tested, last year’s model suggests we can expect another extremely close matchup between the iPhone 15 Pro Max and S24 Ultra. The Pixel 8 Pro however is held back by its Tensor G3 chip which is known for running hotter than the competition and draining precious juice. Calling a definitive winner here is a tough call, even though on paper the S24 Ultra appears to win when it comes to hardware specs, thanks in large part to its 200MP main lens. Samsung’s “Space Zoom” system on the S24 Ultra can even crop into an insane 100x zoom range. You’d be hard-pressed to find this unique zoom functionality on any other flagship phone sold in India today (with the exception perhaps being the Vivo X100). The tech industry is obsessed with generative AI. In fact, Samsung’s launch of the Galaxy S24 series was all about ‘Galaxy AI’. The S24 Ultra packs nifty AI camera tools like Generative Edit, which fills in background details using AI. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro sports a Magic Eraser to remove objects from photos and replace them with generated pixels. It also has Zoom Enhance to make zoomed shots more realistic.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:09 PM
Samsung teases the Galaxy Ring, its newest fitness device
At the recently concluded Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung unveiled the name and design of the Galaxy Ring, an upcoming smart ring that might offer features similar to the Galaxy Watch. Here's everything we know so far about the new device After months of speculations and rumours, Samsung has officially confirmed the existence of the Galaxy Ring. Teased at the very end of the recently concluded Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung said that the smart ring is a “powerful and accessible” health and wellness device.At the event, Samsung only revealed the name and design of the upcoming wearable. However, chances are that Samsung will follow in the footsteps of other smart rings and offer fitness tracking features like heart rate monitoring, blood oxygen level, sleep tracking and step counter. According to Dr Matthew Wiggins, a clinical research scientist at Samsung Research, the Samsung Health app will soon get features like monitoring potential sleep apnea symptoms using sleep tracking algorithms, maintaining heart rate alerts in sleep and some changes to blood oxygen powered by Galaxy AI. He also teased a Fitbit-like feature called ‘My Vitality Score’, which tracks users track their physical readiness and mental preparedness based on their heart rate data, activity and sleep. A future update to the app will also remind users about medications they need to take and warn them about potential interactions with foods and other medications they might be on, hinting that the Galaxy Ring will also get these features apart from the standard fitness tracking functionalities the company offers with its smartwatch.Samsung said that the Galaxy Ring will be “coming soon”, but did not reveal information about the price and launch date. But if we take a look at some of the most popular smart rings available in the market like the Oura Ring 3, the Galaxy Ring might likely cost somewhere around $300.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:08 PM
Suspect allegedly involved in shooting of Spain Vox party co-founder is arrested in Colombia
Colombian police say they have arrested a Venezuelan suspected of involvement in the alleged attempted assassination in Madrid last year of a co-founder of Spain’s far-right Vox party. Greg Oliver Higuera Marcano was wanted in connection with last year’s shooting of Alejo Vidal-Quadras, a former leader of Spain’s main rightwing political party in Catalonia who went on to co-found Vox, and is a former vice-president of the European parliament. The 78-year-old survived being shot in the head in November last year. Colombian police said in a statement that according to Spanish investigations, the Venezuelan had allegedly “participated logistically in the attack on Vidal-Quadras”.Higuera was “detected” by immigration officials on Tuesday as he “intended to enter Colombia via the Simón Bolívar international bridge” on the border with Venezuela, police said.A “coordination process” was now under way for Higuera to be presented to a court in Spain, the police statement said.Vidal-Quadras was leader of the conservative PP party in the north-eastern Catalonia region in the 1990s. He went on to be an MEP and then was among the founders of Vox, which he left shortly after its creation.Vidal-Quadras has previously accused the Iranian regime of being behind the assassination attempt. In October 2022, Vidal-Quadras was included in an Iranian sanctions list in retaliation for EU sanctions imposed on the country after the death in custody of a 22-year-old Iranian-Kurdish woman, Mahsa Amini.A Paris-based Iranian opposition group, the Committee of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, has previously described Vidal-Quadras as a staunch ally and blamed the Iranian government for the attack.In November last year, Spain announced the arrest of three suspects in the “attempted terrorist assassination” of Vidal-Quadras.The suspected gunman, described by Spanish authorities as a Frenchman of Tunisian origins, has not been caught.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:07 PM
Google to remove 17 underutilised features from Assistant: Here is the complete list
Google announced that it will remove 17 skills from Google Assistant starting January 26. In a recent blog post, the company said that these were some of the most underutilised features and that users would get a notification about skills that would not be available after a certain date. Here’s the full list of commands which will soon stop working on Google Assistant. The company is also making some changes to the Google app, with the microphone icon now triggering search results. While you can continue using the ‘Hey Google’ or ‘Ok Google’ keywords to trigger the digital assistant, the microphone icon in the Google app search bar will no longer be able to complete actions like turning off the light or sending messages. The change affects the microphone icon in the Pixel Search bar as well, which will now trigger voice search instead of Assistant. Google says that it is doing so to offer an improved user experience and that these skills weren’t used much in the first place. But this might also be a glimpse of what’s about to come. The company is also reportedly rebranding Google Assistant to ‘Assistant with Bard’, but a new report suggests it might rename the product to just ‘Bard.’ With Samsung rumoured to offer on-device generative AI features on the upcoming Galaxy S24 series and Microsoft Copilot directly competing with Bard, it looks like Google’s recent move may be a part of a bigger restructuring plan we might not know about. Ability to play and control audiobooks on Google Play Books.Settings or using media alarms, music alarms and radio alarms on Google Assistant-enabled devices.Managing cookbooks, transferring recipes from one device to another, playing instructional recipe videos and showing step-by-step recipes.Managing stopwatch on Smart Displays and Speakers.Using voice to call a device or broadcast messages on Family Group.Ability to send email, video or audio message using voice.Rescheduling events in Google Calendar with voice.Using the app launcher to read and send messages, make calls and control media in Google Assistant driving mode.Ability to schedule or hear previously scheduled Family Bell announcements.Asking Google Assistant to meditate with Calm.Control activities with voice on Fitbit Sense and Versa 3.Viewing sleep summary on Google Smart Displays.Calls made from Smart Displays and speakers will no longer show caller ID unless it’s made on Google Duo.Smart Displays will no longer show the ambient ‘Commute to Work’ time.Checking personal itineraries using voice.Using voice to perform actions like making payments, making reservations or posting to social media.Asking for information about contacts.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:03 PM
India leads the world in average yearly PM2.5 levels and dominates the worldwide indoor air pollution chart.
Dyson just published the results of the Global Connected Air Quality Data project by analysing indoor air quality information collected using over 2.5 million Dyson air purifiers via the MyDyson app, where, India recorded the highest average annual PM2.5 levels when compared to countries like China, Turkey, UAE, and South Korea. The study reports that, in all the countries, the monthly average indoor PM2.5 levels exceed the WHO long-term exposure guidance for at least six months in a year with winter being the most polluted season in all geographies. In India, the levels exceed the WHO guidance every month of the year. The study also highlights that Delhi is amongst the most affected cities when compared to Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Busan. The report also highlighted that, in Delhi, the air inside the home was 15 per cent more polluted than outside air. The study focuses on two different types of pollutants — particulate matter (PM) 2.5 and Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), where, PM 2.5 particles will be as small as 2.5 microns in diameter, which will be invisible to the naked eye and can be inhaled. These particles are usually generated by wood burners, gas cooking, heating, pet dander, ash, and dust. In cities like Delhi, the indoor air gets 48 per cent dirtier in winter, especially during nighttime. The study highlights the need for an effective air purifier to remove a wide range of pollutants from the air, which includes technologies like HEPA filtration.Transform your home entertainment with the finest TVs from top brands, available at remarkable prices at the Amazon Sale today. Explore the captivating visuals of Redmi, the cinematic brilliance of Sony, and the cutting-edge innovation from Hisense, Samsung, LG, VU, and more. Don't miss out on these exclusive Amazon offers that bring these premium TVs within reach. Upgrade your home entertainment setup today, and seize the opportunity to enjoy the best prices on top-notch TVs.Unveil an immersive home entertainment experience with the Redmi (32) F Series, priced at just Rs 10,999 at the Amazon Sale. This HD Ready TV offers a 60Hz refresh rate, 178-degree viewing angle, and a metal bezel-less screen for captivating visuals. Its connectivity features include Dual Band Wi-Fi, 2 HDMI ports, 2 USB ports, Bluetooth 5.0, and more. With 20 Watts Output, Dolby Audio, and DTS Virtual: X, you can enjoy a powerful audio experience. This smart TV integrates Fire TV, supports popular apps, and features a voice remote with Alexa. Overall, this is one of the best deals at the Amazon Sale.Experience the brilliance of Sony TVs with jaw-dropping discounts – enjoy a minimum of 45% off during the Amazon Sale 2024. Click on the link below to explore and grab some of the best-selling TVs and upgrade your home entertainment without breaking the bank.
Published 24 Jan 2024 09:03 PM