India News & Trends

Social Panga to Handle Social Media for Neo by Nippon Paint

Social Panga to Handle Social Media for Neo by Nippon Paint

Neo by Nippon Paint has appointed Social Panga as its official social media agency. The collaboration aims to strengthen Neo’s presence across digital platforms and connect more directly with its target audience. Social Panga will be responsible for creating and managing content, developing social media strategies, and enhancing engagement across platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. The agency brings experience in handling campaigns for brands in the lifestyle and home improvement sectors. Neo, a brand under Nippon Paint, focuses on products for the modern consumer, offering a range of solutions tailored to today’s design and functional needs. This move is part of its broader push to build a stronger identity and stay relevant in a competitive market. Speaking about the partnership, both teams expressed confidence in their shared vision and strategy. Social Panga aims to translate Neo’s brand values into digital conversations that reflect the brand’s tone and connect meaningfully with its followers.

Published 11 Jul 2025 05:02 PM

The Revanth government awarded Allu Arjun the Gaddar award months after he was arrested in the Pushpa 2 stampede case.

The Revanth government awarded Allu Arjun the Gaddar award months after he was arrested in the Pushpa 2 stampede case.

In relation to a case involving the death of a lady in a stampede at Hyderabad's Sandhya theater during the premiere of his film Pushpa 2, Arjun was taken into custody last December.Arjun will formally receive the first "Best Leading Actor" award at a later time for his role in the highly successful sequel Pushpa 2: The Rule, which brought in an estimated Rs 1,800 crore at the box office worldwide.Arjun's prize comes months after he was temporarily detained and arrested by Telangana police, who blamed him and others for the stampede that occurred on December 4 at the film's premiere at the Sandhya theater in this city. In the midst of controversy surrounding the death of 39-year-old M. Revathi in the stampede and the severe injuries sustained by her 9-year-old son, the arrest was announced on December 13. On the eve of the release, Arjun went to the renowned Sandhya theater to support his admirers, and Revathi's family of four attended to see the Pushpa-2 premiere event. As the opposition BRS and BJP denounced "the arrest of a national award winner," particularly the way it was executed, the police action took a political turn. In an X post at the time, Telangana BJP politician and Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay wrote, "...lifting national award-winning actor Allu Arjun straight out of his bedroom without even giving him time to change is a disgraceful act of mismanagement and disrespect."The police action took a political turn when the opposition BRS and BJP condemned "the arrest of a national award winner," especially the manner in which it was carried out. Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs and Telangana BJP politician Bandi Sanjay remarked in an X post at the time, "...lifting national award-winning actor Allu Arjun straight out of his bedroom without even giving him time to change is a disgraceful act of mismanagement and disrespect."  

Published 31 May 2025 08:00 PM

In a High Court case, Adman Sandeep Goyal wants the government to control surrogate advertisements.

In a High Court case, Adman Sandeep Goyal wants the government to control surrogate advertisements.

In order to stop surrogate advertising, Sandeep Goyal has petitioned the Punjab and Haryana High Court for a government-led oversight agency. He contends that deceptive advertising of things that are prohibited, such as alcohol and tobacco, cannot be addressed by the self-regulation that is in place at the moment. By acknowledging the issue and sending letters to the appropriate authorities, the court has signaled the start of an important legal discussion over advertising control.The nation is experiencing a health catastrophe as a result of young people developing early alcohol and tobacco addictions. According to the petition, "it is argued that the commercials, which feature well-known celebrities to promote their product, not only encourage the use of alcohol and tobacco but also validate their use through the glamorous representation of these products. "The petition highlights how ineffectual the present self-regulatory frameworks—such as the Advertising Standards Council of India's (ASCI)—are at preventing deceptive advertising. Goyal demands a stronger regulatory framework run by the government to monitor advertising material.Goyal argues that current redressal procedures are not quick to offset the immediate effects of these advertisements, which continue to reach sizable audiences before any kind of regulation is implemented. Additionally, he cites Supreme Court and high court rulings advocating for more stringent regulatory monitoring in the advertising industry.  

Published 31 May 2025 07:43 PM

Neelam Kothari Soni, Masaba Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Rohan Joshi are also featured in the movie.

Neelam Kothari Soni, Masaba Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Rohan Joshi are also featured in the movie.

Neelam Kothari Soni, Masaba Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Rohan Joshi are also featured in the movie. For the impending End of Reason Sale (EORS), Myntra has released their newest ad, which features a gorgeous cast and a humorous twist.The story, which is set in a stylized living room, centers on a fictitious intervention that Johar's friends conduct, during which they first chastise him for using coupons to purchase. As each of them is ultimately influenced by the sale's offerings, the scenario swiftly becomes comical. With EORS scheduled to begin on May 31, the movie centers on Myntra's claims of the "Lowest Price Guaranteed" and cashback incentives."With each edition of EORS, our goal is not just to deliver unmatched value but to redefine how India experiences fashion," stated Kejal Parekh, Associate Director, Marketing, Myntra, while describing the intentions of the campaign. By bringing together well-known individuals in an entertaining and unusual atmosphere that reflects how our customers interact with fashion today, we wanted to achieve something genuinely novel for the 22nd edition.  

Published 27 May 2025 08:55 PM

N Venu is appointed Managing Director of Hitachi India.

N Venu is appointed Managing Director of Hitachi India.

According to Hitachi India, N Venu will take over as the company's new Managing Director (MD) on June 2, 2025. This significant change in leadership comes when Bharat Kaushal was promoted to Executive Chairman of Hitachi India, effective April 1, 2025.According to Hitachi India, N Venu will take over as the company's new Managing Director (MD) on June 2, 2025. This significant change in leadership comes when Bharat Kaushal was promoted to Executive Chairman of Hitachi India, effective April 1, 2025.The advancement of Bharat Kaushal Hitachi India's first Indian MD was Bharat Kaushal. He has now been elevated to Hitachi India's Executive Chairman position. He works for Hitachi Ltd. as a corporate officer as well. His guidance has been crucial to Hitachi's expansion in India. N Venu's Present Positions N Venu currently occupies significant positions inside the organization. He serves as both the region head for Hitachi Energy in South Asia and the managing director and CEO of Hitachi Energy India. He will assume the additional duty of serving as MD of Hitachi India starting in June 2025.Put Growth and Innovation First In his capacity as MD, N Venu will support Hitachi's growth in India. His objective is to back Hitachi's new management strategy, "Inspire 2027," which emphasizes innovation and growth via digital technology.  In order to increase value for customers, he would also try to unite the approximately 28 Hitachi group entities in India. The Vision of Hitachi for India India is a crucial business destination for Hitachi. The business is expanding in sectors like energy, digital services, railroads, financial inclusion, healthcare, and education. Venu's hiring demonstrates Hitachi's strong commitment to making India a significant component of its worldwide business, according to Bharat Kaushal.Venu's History and Accomplishments N Venu has worked for nearly 40 years. Since 2019, he has served as Hitachi Energy's leader in India, accelerating the company's expansion. In 2024–2025, he also held the position of Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Karnataka Chapter. Venu attended NIT Warangal to study electrical engineering. He also attended the Indian School of Business (ISB) in Hyderabad, IIM Ahmedabad, and IMD in Switzerland to study management.  

Published 31 May 2025 08:01 PM

Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Limited (KSDL) has named Tamannaah Bhatia as a brand ambassador.

Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Limited (KSDL) has named Tamannaah Bhatia as a brand ambassador.

Actress Tamannaah Bhatia has been appointed as the brand ambassador for Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Limited (KSDL), a well-known state-owned enterprise, for a two-year term. The goal of this program is to increase KSDL's market reach in India and abroad while also increasing its visibility among younger consumers.Renowned actress Tamannaah Bhatia has been named the two-year brand ambassador for Karnataka Soaps & Detergents Limited (KSDL), a century-old state-owned company. This calculated action seeks to increase KSDL's appeal and exposure among younger consumers while broadening its national and international reach. On May 22, 2025, Karnataka's Large and Medium Industries Minister M.B. Patil made the news, emphasizing Tamannaah's widespread appeal and robust online presence throughout India. As KSDL starts a strategic transition to increase brand value, penetrate new markets, and connect with a younger, wider audience, this appointment comes at a critical juncture. With more than 28 million followers on social media and widespread popularity throughout India, Tamannaah is a perfect fit to embody KSDL's fusion of tradition and modern appeal. The action demonstrates KSDL's intention to use celebrity endorsements as a component of its larger marketing and growth plan.  

Published 27 May 2025 09:05 PM

The Manipur High Court's Chief Justice is Justice K. Somashekar.

The Manipur High Court's Chief Justice is Justice K. Somashekar.

The President of India has chosen Justice K. Somashekar, a former member of the Karnataka High Court, as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. This ruling reflects the Supreme Court collegium's recommendation and comes after Justice D. Krishnakumar's planned retirement.The appointment of Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, a Karnataka High Court judge, as the new Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court is a noteworthy legal move. Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar will retire on May 21, 2025, and this appointment comes after his retirement. More than thirty years of judicial experience and legal service throughout Karnataka are brought to the table by Justice Somashekar. Only a few days after a Supreme Court collegium headed by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai endorsed his name, Justice K. Somashekar's promotion to Chief Justice of Manipur High Court was formally announced on May 20, 2025. The appointment and recommendation cover the void left by Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar's retirement.He added, "The President of India, after consulting with the Chief Justice of India, is pleased to appoint Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, Judge of the Karnataka High Court, as Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court in exercise of the power conferred by the Constitution of India." The appointment was made a few days after a three-member collegium led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai recommended it due to incumbent Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar's May 21 retirement. In December of last year, Justice Krishnakumar was named chief justice of the High Court.  

Published 22 May 2025 04:29 PM

In a bureaucratic reorganization, Sanjeev Ranjan was appointed road transport secretary.

In a bureaucratic reorganization, Sanjeev Ranjan was appointed road transport secretary.

New Delhi: According to a personnel ministry order, senior IAS official Sanjeev Ranjan has been appointed secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), as part of a top-level bureaucratic reorganization carried out by the federal government. Ranjan is currently the chairman of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and was a Tripura-bred IAS officer in 1985. He has been designated as a MoRTH officer on special duty.According to the decision, Yudhvir Singh Malik will be superannuated by the end of this month, and Ranjan will assume the position of MoRTH secretary on April 1, 2019. Ranjan will be replaced as the new head of the NHAI by Nagendra Nath Sinha. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation's managing director is N.N. Sinha. He will also continue to be in charge of this position.Rakesh Srivastava, who is scheduled to superannuate on March 31, will be replaced as secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development by Rabindra Panwar. Until Srivastava retires, Panwar, a special secretary and financial adviser in the Ministry of Home Affairs, will serve as OSD in the Ministry of Women and Child Development. Panwar will be replaced at the Home Ministry as special secretary and financial adviser by Bhupendra Singh, chairman of the National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention.Anant Kumar Singh, who retires at the end of this month, will be replaced as secretary of the Department of Land Resources by senior bureaucrat Ruolkhumlein Buhril. Buhril is the secretary of the Home Ministry's Inter State Council Secretariat. He will assume the position of OSD at the Ministry of Rural Development's Department of Land Resources.The National Archives of India's director general will be P. Venkata Ramesh Babu, a senior IAS officer. Babu now serves as Rural Electrification Corporation Ltd.'s chairman and managing director. Rajni Sekhri Sibal, who is now an additional secretary in the Home Ministry, will serve as the secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare's Department of Fisheries. The Medical Council of India has nominated Rakesh Kumar Vats as its secretary general. He currently serves as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's supplementary secretary and financial adviser.Vats will be replaced by Dharmendra S. Gangwar as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's additional secretary and financial adviser. Gangwar holds the same position in the Ministry of Culture. Braj Raj Sharma, a Jammu and Kashmir cadre IAS official, will serve as secretary of the Home Ministry's Department of Border Management. He works in the same department as the special secretary.  

Published 21 May 2025 05:32 PM

“Software Was Faulty”: Baba Ramdev’s Take on Shefali Jariwala's Death Upsets Fans

“Software Was Faulty”: Baba Ramdev’s Take on Shefali Jariwala's Death Upsets Fans

Yoga guru Baba Ramdev has drawn criticism online following his remarks on the sudden death of actress Shefali Jariwala. In a recent interview, he said, "The hardware was fine, but the software was faulty," referring to her internal health. His comment, made during a discussion on lifestyle and health, was seen by many as insensitive, especially so soon after the news of her passing.   Shefali Jariwala, known for her role in the music video "Kaanta Laga," reportedly died of a sudden cardiac arrest at her Mumbai home. While investigations are ongoing, it has been reported that she was undergoing anti-aging IV treatments and had recently started fasting for religious reasons. Her unexpected death has sparked conversations about wellness practices and their long-term effects.   Following Ramdev’s comments, many users on social media reacted strongly. Some accused him of using the moment to promote his views on natural living, while others asked him to show more compassion. Phrases like "Stop this nonsense" and "Let her rest in peace" were commonly echoed in the responses.   Ramdev later clarified that he was trying to highlight the dangers of modern health trends that focus on external appearance rather than overall well-being. He suggested that people are increasingly overloading their bodies with supplements and treatments without understanding the consequences. His point was that even people who appear healthy can have underlying issues if their lifestyle isn't balanced.

Published 04 Jul 2025 03:03 PM

Ramayana Teaser: Ranbir is Ram, Yash is Ravan

Ramayana Teaser: Ranbir is Ram, Yash is Ravan

The first teaser for Ramayana, Nitesh Tiwari’s much-anticipated retelling of the classic epic, is out now. It offers a brief look at Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Yash as Ravan—each bringing very different energy to their roles.   Ranbir appears composed and steady, while Yash, as the fierce Ravan, makes a powerful impression. The teaser doesn’t reveal much of the story, but its dramatic visuals and grand scale suggest something big is on the way.   What’s catching viewers' attention, beyond the cast, is the look and feel of the teaser. With moody lighting, stark battle sequences, and a weighty tone, many are drawing comparisons to Game of Thrones. Even the way the credits roll seems inspired by the fantasy series.   With Sai Pallavi reportedly playing Sita, and a strong supporting cast expected, Ramayana aims to blend tradition with a modern cinematic approach. The teaser has already sparked a wave of curiosity—and some debate—on how this retelling will balance faith, fiction, and visual storytelling.  

Published 04 Jul 2025 01:08 PM

Box Office Early Update: Housefull 5 Nears ₹175 Crore Mark, Set to Overtake Raid 2

Box Office Early Update: Housefull 5 Nears ₹175 Crore Mark, Set to Overtake Raid 2

Akshay Kumar's Housefull 5 continues its steady performance at the box office. On its second Tuesday, the film benefited from discounted ticket prices — a strategy repeated by the makers to draw weekday audiences — resulting in a moderate increase in collections. According to early estimates, the film earned between ₹4 crore and ₹4.5 crore on day 12, marking a growth of 5–18% from Monday’s ₹3.8 crore. With these numbers, the film's total domestic collection is now expected to be in the range of ₹170.49 crore to ₹170.99 crore. At this pace, Housefull 5 is likely to surpass the lifetime earnings of Raid 2 (₹177.83 crore) within the next two days, positioning it as the second highest-grossing Bollywood film of 2025.   Housefull5 Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, the film has shown consistent performance since its release, and all eyes are now on whether it can maintain momentum heading into its third week.

Published 18 Jun 2025 07:48 AM

The Revanth government awarded Allu Arjun the Gaddar award months after he was arrested in the Pushpa 2 stampede case.

The Revanth government awarded Allu Arjun the Gaddar award months after he was arrested in the Pushpa 2 stampede case.

In relation to a case involving the death of a lady in a stampede at Hyderabad's Sandhya theater during the premiere of his film Pushpa 2, Arjun was taken into custody last December.Arjun will formally receive the first "Best Leading Actor" award at a later time for his role in the highly successful sequel Pushpa 2: The Rule, which brought in an estimated Rs 1,800 crore at the box office worldwide.Arjun's prize comes months after he was temporarily detained and arrested by Telangana police, who blamed him and others for the stampede that occurred on December 4 at the film's premiere at the Sandhya theater in this city. In the midst of controversy surrounding the death of 39-year-old M. Revathi in the stampede and the severe injuries sustained by her 9-year-old son, the arrest was announced on December 13. On the eve of the release, Arjun went to the renowned Sandhya theater to support his admirers, and Revathi's family of four attended to see the Pushpa-2 premiere event. As the opposition BRS and BJP denounced "the arrest of a national award winner," particularly the way it was executed, the police action took a political turn. In an X post at the time, Telangana BJP politician and Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay wrote, "...lifting national award-winning actor Allu Arjun straight out of his bedroom without even giving him time to change is a disgraceful act of mismanagement and disrespect."The police action took a political turn when the opposition BRS and BJP condemned "the arrest of a national award winner," especially the manner in which it was carried out. Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs and Telangana BJP politician Bandi Sanjay remarked in an X post at the time, "...lifting national award-winning actor Allu Arjun straight out of his bedroom without even giving him time to change is a disgraceful act of mismanagement and disrespect."  

Published 31 May 2025 08:00 PM

RBI Can Still Cut Rates Despite Neutral Stance, Says Governor Malhotra

RBI Can Still Cut Rates Despite Neutral Stance, Says Governor Malhotra

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra has clarified that the central bank’s current “neutral” policy stance should not be misunderstood as a signal that interest rates cannot be reduced. Speaking to reporters, Malhotra explained that neutrality gives the RBI flexibility—it can raise or lower rates depending on how inflation and the broader economy behave.   “There seems to be a misconception that a neutral stance only allows us to hold or hike rates,” Malhotra said. “That’s not the case. We can cut rates if the situation demands.” His remarks come at a time when markets and analysts are closely watching for signs of a rate cut amid easing inflation and global monetary shifts.   Since February 2023, the RBI has maintained interest rates, focusing on controlling inflation while monitoring economic growth. Recently, inflation has slowed, increasing expectations that a rate cut might encourage borrowing and investment without exacerbating inflation.   Malhotra stressed that the RBI remains data-driven and won’t rush into decisions. “We will act based on incoming data. Our primary goal is to maintain stability while supporting sustainable growth,” he said. This balanced approach, he added, is what the neutral stance is meant to reflect.   In short, while the RBI hasn’t cut rates yet, it’s keeping the door open. The message is clear: flexibility is key, and decisions will be shaped by how the economy performs in the coming months.

Published 15 Jul 2025 04:08 PM

The NIFTY50 hovers above 22,800, the SENSEX jumps 1,131 points, and the whole market shines as well.

The NIFTY50 hovers above 22,800, the SENSEX jumps 1,131 points, and the whole market shines as well.

The NIFTY50 and SENSEX both ended the day at their one-month high. For the first time since February 21, 2025, the 50-share NIFTY 50 index surpassed the 22,800 level. Additionally, the BSE SENSEX leveled off above 75,000.Tuesday, March 18, saw a 1.5% increase in the Indian stock market due to strong buying in the financial and metals sectors and outperformance by the overall market. The encouraging global cues also improved market sentiment. The NIFTY50 and SENSEX both ended the day at their one-month high. For the first time since February 21, 2025, the 50-share NIFTY 50 index surpassed the 22,800 level. Additionally, the BSE SENSEX leveled off above 75,000. The NSE's NIFTY50 index closed 325.55 points, or 1.45%, higher at the 22,834.30 level, while the S&P BSE SENSEX closed at 75,301.26, up 1,131.31 points, or 1.53%. Out of the 3,016 equities that were traded on the NSE, 2,288 scrips rose, indicating that the market attitude continued in favor of bulls. At the end of the day, the smallcap and midcap indices both saw gains of nearly 2.8%. On Tuesday, all sectoral measures ended the day higher.Investors are also anticipating updates about tariffs and the US Fed's interest rate decision.  

Published 18 Mar 2025 06:09 PM

How have portfolio managers performed in terms of returns when comparing mutual funds and PMS?

How have portfolio managers performed in terms of returns when comparing mutual funds and PMS?

Current Market News Live Updates for Today: Watch the market wrap-up for today! Follow the fluctuations of the Sensex and Nifty 50, as well as the top winners and losers. See which sectors drove the growth (or drop) and how the US and Asian markets performed. Summary: For up-to-date information on your favorite businesses, follow Mint's market blog. This blog provides you with up-to-date information about global markets and Dalal Street.Late September 2024 saw the top of the Indian equity market, with many large-, mid-, and small-cap companies reaching all-time highs. But ever since, the market has been in a gloomy mood as investor morale has been affected by headwinds including high valuations, a slowdown in profitability, uncertainties around international trade, etc. As of February 21, 2025, the BSE Sensex has down 12.2%, the BSE Midcap has fallen 18.6%, and the BSE Smallcap index has fallen 20.5% from its peak.Based on 5-month returns, NAV decreases of 4–26% have been recorded for equity mutual funds across all categories as a result of the market's severe downturn.  

Published 01 Mar 2025 07:41 PM

Highlights of the Budget and Economic Survey: As the budget session starts, FM Nirmala Sitharaman presents the Indian economy report.

Highlights of the Budget and Economic Survey: As the budget session starts, FM Nirmala Sitharaman presents the Indian economy report.

Highlights of the Budget and Economic Survey: On January 31, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will deliver the Economic Survey, which examines the Indian economy, governmental policies, and prospects for the future. It discusses socioeconomic problems including poverty and education as well as macroeconomic performance.Highlights of the Budget and Economic Survey: On January 31, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will deliver the Economic Survey to Parliament, which will include a thorough examination of the Indian economy with an emphasis on a few important areas. Economic Survey: What Is It? The Indian economy's performance, governmental policies, and prospects for the next fiscal year are all summarized in the Economic Survey. It is separated into two sections: Part A examines economic performance, focusing on fiscal trends and macroeconomic statistics, while Part B discusses socioeconomic concerns like poverty, education, climate change, and the prospects for GDP growth, inflation, and trade.The Economic Survey is created by whom? The Department of Economic Affairs' economic section, led by Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) V Anantha Nageswaran, prepares the Economic Survey. The Economic Survey will be presented by whom? One day prior to the budget speech, on January 31, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will deliver the Economic Survey to the Parliament.  

Published 31 Jan 2025 10:22 PM

Indian Railways Launches 'RailOne': A One-Stop App for All Train Travelers

Indian Railways Launches 'RailOne': A One-Stop App for All Train Travelers

Indian Railways has launched RailOne, a new all-in-one mobile app designed to make train travel easier, faster, and more convenient for passengers across the country. Instead of juggling multiple apps for booking tickets, tracking trains, ordering food, or filing complaints, travelers can now do it all in one place. Available for free on Android and iOS, the app has been developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and brings together key services previously spread across different platforms like IRCTC, UTS, Rail Madad, and NTES.   RailOne allows users to book both reserved and unreserved tickets, buy platform tickets and monthly passes, check PNR status, track live train movement, find coach positions, and order food directly to their seat. It also offers a journey planner, digital wallet (R-Wallet) for payments, and a built-in complaint and refund system. What makes the app especially user-friendly is the option to log in with your IRCTC or UTS credentials—or simply use an OTP as a guest, which is ideal for occasional travelers or those unfamiliar with railway apps.   One of the app's biggest strengths is its clean and intuitive interface. Whether you're a daily commuter or someone planning a long-distance journey, you can find everything in one place without needing tech expertise.   A standout feature is the new R-Wallet, a digital wallet built into the app that lets you pay securely and even gives a small discount on certain bookings. RailOne also supports multiple Indian languages and has a clean, user-friendly design, making it accessible for a wide range of users, regardless of their familiarity with technology.   Overall, RailOne feels like a much-needed upgrade in how we interact with Indian Railways. It’s convenient, comprehensive, and built with real-world travel needs in mind. Whether you're planning a long journey or just heading to work, this app is a simple way to stay connected to everything you need—without the clutter.   While the app is still fresh and may face a few technical hiccups, Indian Railways is actively working to smooth out the experience. They’re also rolling out a powerful new backend system that can handle heavy booking traffic, set to be fully in place by the end of 2025. This means faster response times and fewer delays when booking tickets or checking train status.   The RailOne app marks a big step forward in simplifying train travel in India, offering passengers a smoother, smarter, and more connected experience.   If you travel by train often—or even just once in a while—RailOne is worth checking out. From booking tickets and tracking your train to grabbing a meal en route or filing a complaint, this app is built to save time and reduce hassle, all from your phone.

Published 02 Jul 2025 06:02 PM

To accelerate development, PM Modi calls on states to cooperate with the center.

To accelerate development, PM Modi calls on states to cooperate with the center.

Punjab laments "step motherly treatment," T.N. demands a larger portion of Central tax income, and the PM encourages States to create world-class tourism destinations and incorporate women into the workforce at the Niti Aayog Governing Council meeting.Some States, including Tamil Nadu and Punjab, complained to the Center while others offered proposals to accelerate their growth, despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for the States to unite with the Center to accelerate national development.Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong case for cooperative federalism on Saturday, emphasizing the value of coordinated action between the federal government and the states. He said that no goal is impossible when India works as "Team India." The Prime Minister, who chaired the 10th meeting of Niti Aayog's Governing Council, emphasized the importance of accelerating development efforts in order to achieve a "Viksit Bharat" by 2047. The purpose of the gathering, which had as its topic "Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047," was to synchronize national and state developmental goals. "Every Indian aspires to Viksit Bharat. Bharat will be Viksit once all the states are Viksit. Prime Minister Modi stated, "This is what its 140 crore citizens want."The chief ministers of every state, lieutenant governors of Union Territories, and a number of Union ministers make up the Governing Council, the highest authority within Niti Aayog. The Prime Minister promoted a bottom-up approach to development while serving as the council's head. "Our goal should be to make every state, city, Nagar Palika, and hamlet viksit. We won't have to wait till 2047 to achieve Viksit Bharat if we continue along these lines," he continued.He suggested that every state choose and create at least one internationally renowned tourism destination with all the amenities and infrastructure of today. "One State: One Worldwide Location." The Prime Minister pointed out that it will also result in the growth of nearby cities as tourism destinations.He called for an emphasis on creating "future-ready cities" with development driven by growth, innovation, and sustainability, acknowledging the rapid rate of urbanization in India. In addition, the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of boosting women's employment. He stated that in order for them to be politely included into the labor, rules and procedures must be created.  

Published 28 May 2025 07:55 PM

Why the Madhya Pradesh Congress has targeted Shivraj Chouhan's stronghold in order to implement changes

Why the Madhya Pradesh Congress has targeted Shivraj Chouhan's stronghold in order to implement changes

Beginning with the district of Vidisha, the Madhya Pradesh Congress has begun what it describes as its most comprehensive organizational reorganization exercise in decades. In order to restore the party's grassroots presence following a string of election setbacks in the state, the plan creates a new level of panchayat and ward-level committees.This new organizational model has chosen Vidisha as a test project, and if it works, it will be used in all 52 Madhya Pradesh districts. This is part of the state Congress's larger proposal to declare 2025 a year of "organizational renaissance."One and a half years have passed after the Congress' disastrous performance in the 2023 state Assembly elections, in which it only managed to get 66 of 230 seats. With 163 seats, the BJP won a resounding majority and was able to hold onto power for another term. Following this, the Congress was overwhelmingly defeated in the state's 2024 Lok Sabha elections, losing  29 seats—including the Vidisha seat—at the hands of the BJP.  

Published 27 May 2025 09:06 PM

Lower bond purchase amounts are accepted by RBI in the first FY26 OMO auction.

Lower bond purchase amounts are accepted by RBI in the first FY26 OMO auction.

Mumbai: Despite market participants' attempts to sell assets worth twice the publicized offer on the table, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) accepted a lower-than-notified sum to buy bonds during its open market operations on Monday. This most likely means that the central bank is content with the liquidity as it stands right now.At this OMO, the RBI received bids totaling ₹19,203 crore, which was less than the ₹25,000 crore notified amount. Bids of ₹50,369 crore were received by RBI. The RBI has accepted a smaller amount in this first FY26 OMO auction. The actions taken by the RBI have improved system liquidity. The auction on Monday included government notes with maturities in 2029, 2032, 2033, 2034, and 2036. On Monday, the 10-year benchmark yield ended the day at 6.24%. "For the semi-liquid 20, the auction cut-off prices were nearly in line with market levels."It seems that the majority of HTM stock that might be sold in OMOs has either hit or is close to a limit. "Most banks are selective and don't have excess," stated Ritesh Bhusari, joint general manager of South Indian Bank.  

Published 20 May 2025 05:10 PM

Is the 'Caveman Skincare Routine' a hoax in terms of hygiene?

Is the 'Caveman Skincare Routine' a hoax in terms of hygiene?

I'm a regular TikTok scroller (the four hours of screen time a day speaks for itself), and I've seen a ton of beauty films, from popular trends to amazing hacks that would put a Victorian kid in a coma. The caveman skincare method, however, may just take the biscuit—or perhaps I should say water—as the most talked-about topic on SkinTok lately.The 'Caveman Skincare Method' is the skincare regimen that TikTok creator Tia Zakher has lately described in a number of videos on the platform. "After 8 years of picking and over-exfoliating, I'm healing my skin barrier by doing the one thing I never tried before... absolutely nothing," Tia explains in a video that has received 9.7 million views. In other words, she has stopped using water in addition to all skincare products (I'm referring about moisturizer, exfoliant, and cleanser). Tia responded to Cosmopolitan UK's inquiry on why she chose to utilize the caveman skincare method by saying, "I decided to do it because I wanted to try a different approach and I do think it's working for me."  

Published 28 May 2025 07:49 PM

Doctors express an urgent warning that reels are now causing eye issues after

Doctors express an urgent warning that reels are now causing eye issues after "brain rot."

All age groups, but mainly children and young adults, are experiencing an increase in eye diseases as a result of excessive screen use, especially binge-watching reels on social media sites.Following worries about the effect of short-form films on mental health, medical professionals are now sounding the alarm about a brand-new, rapidly developing issue: "reel-induced eye damage."Across all age groups, excessive screen time—especially binge-watching reels on social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok—is contributing to an increase in eye diseases, particularly in children and young adults. Leading ophthalmologists discussed this at the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology and All India Ophthalmological Society's ongoing Joint Meeting, which took place Tuesday at the Yashobhoomi-India International Convention and Expo Centre.Dr. Lalit Verma, president of the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) 2025 Congress, spoke sternly about the "silent epidemic of digital eye strain" brought on by prolonged screen time. "We are seeing a sharp increase in cases of dry eye syndrome, myopia progression, eye strain, and even early-onset squinting, especially in children who spend hours watching reels," he stated. "We recently had a student who came in complaining of blurred vision and ongoing eye irritation. Upon inspection, we discovered that his eyes were not shedding enough tears as a result of spending too much time at home viewing reels on a screen. He was given eye drops right away, and the doctor told him to observe the 20-20-20 rule, which calls for looking at anything 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.The president of the All India Ophthalmological Society and chairman of the organizing committee, Dr. Harbansh Lal, described the gravity of the situation.  

Published 17 Apr 2025 08:59 PM

According to Instagram, rubbing raw ginger can help clear up acne. Are dermatologists in agreement?

According to Instagram, rubbing raw ginger can help clear up acne. Are dermatologists in agreement?

Another day, another Instagram beauty tip that has gone viral. You surely have a feed full of skincare tips on how to treat acne if you have it, like I do. Social media is using natural components from your kitchen, such as flax seeds for "botox" and raw garlic. This time, raw ginger is the focus, as influencers assert that applying it topically can help eradicate acne. It seems like a simple solution to acne, doesn't it?Innumerable videos of Indian skinfluencers with radiant skin can be found online these days, stating that the key isn't pricey facials but rather applying raw ginger directly to acne outbreaks to treat them right away. But is this spicy suggestion really supported by any science?To find out if this pattern is reliable, let's take a closer look and get some professional guidance.What are the opinions of experts? First, let's get this out of the way. Anything is not necessarily beneficial to your skin just because it is natural. particularly when used undiluted and raw. Senior consultant dermatologist Dr. Gulhima Arora of Mehektagul Dermaclinic states that ginger has only been indirectly shown to be effective in treating acne in scientific studies. It shouldn't be regarded as the primary or first line of treatment. She emphasizes that acne is a complex condition and that not all of its triggers can be addressed by a single spice.Dermatologist and Kaya Limited medical advisor Dr. Saranya B concurs, saying that using raw ginger to the face is not a clinically validated method of treating acne. Despite its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, direct application may irritate skin. According to Skin Smart Solutions' founder and principal dermatologist, Dr. Bindu Sthalekar, "there is no scientific proof that applying raw ginger topically treats acne." Theoretically, it might be beneficial, but only if taken in conjunction with other drugs and with good tolerance.  

Published 17 Apr 2025 08:57 PM

Doctors express an urgent warning that reels are now causing eye issues after

Doctors express an urgent warning that reels are now causing eye issues after "brain rot."

All age groups, but mainly children and young adults, are experiencing an increase in eye diseases as a result of excessive screen use, especially binge-watching reels on social media sites.Following worries about the effect of short-form films on mental health, medical professionals are now sounding the alarm about a brand-new, rapidly developing issue: "reel-induced eye damage."Across all age groups, excessive screen time—especially binge-watching reels on social media sites like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok—is contributing to an increase in eye diseases, particularly in children and young adults. Leading ophthalmologists discussed this at the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology and All India Ophthalmological Society's ongoing Joint Meeting, which took place Tuesday at the Yashobhoomi-India International Convention and Expo Centre.Dr. Lalit Verma, president of the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) 2025 Congress, spoke sternly about the "silent epidemic of digital eye strain" brought on by prolonged screen time. "We are seeing a sharp increase in cases of dry eye syndrome, myopia progression, eye strain, and even early-onset squinting, especially in children who spend hours watching reels," he stated. "We recently had a student who came in complaining of blurred vision and ongoing eye irritation. Upon inspection, we discovered that his eyes were not shedding enough tears as a result of spending too much time at home viewing reels on a screen. He was given eye drops right away, and the doctor told him to observe the 20-20-20 rule, which calls for looking at anything 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.The president of the All India Ophthalmological Society and chairman of the organizing committee, Dr. Harbansh Lal, described the gravity of the situation.  

Published 01 Apr 2025 09:40 PM

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

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

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

Published 23 Apr 2025 08:56 PM

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

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

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

Published 17 Apr 2025 09:05 PM

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

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

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

Published 31 Mar 2025 08:23 PM

India's bold strategy aids in a quick T20 reconstruction

India's bold strategy aids in a quick T20 reconstruction

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

Published 04 Feb 2025 04:28 PM

Bengal Migrant Workers Detained in Odisha Without Cause, Says Trinamool

Bengal Migrant Workers Detained in Odisha Without Cause, Says Trinamool

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has alleged that several migrant workers from West Bengal have been illegally detained in Odisha, raising serious concerns about the treatment of laborers working outside their home state. According to the TMC, a group of workers from East Midnapore had travelled to Odisha for construction jobs. Party leaders claim the workers were detained without formal charges and have been missing for several days. “These are poor laborers who went to earn a living. We are deeply concerned for their safety,” said TMC MP Saugata Roy at a press conference in Kolkata. “We urge the West Bengal government to step in and ensure their safe return.” Relatives of the missing workers say they have not heard from their loved ones since early last week. Rina Das, the mother of one of the workers, said, “My son went there to work, not to disappear. We just want to know where he is.” The Trinamool Congress announced it will send a team to Odisha to gather information and assist the families. The party has also written to state authorities demanding an explanation. As of now, Odisha police have not issued an official statement. Sources suggest the matter is being reviewed. This incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety and legal rights of interstate migrant workers in India.

Published 10 Jul 2025 05:57 PM

PM Modi to Visit 5 Countries in 8 Days, Attend BRICS Summit in Brazil

PM Modi to Visit 5 Countries in 8 Days, Attend BRICS Summit in Brazil

The PM’s eight-day tour from July 2 to July 9 would cover two continents and include visits to Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil and Namibia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to begin his longest international trip in ten years, starting Wednesday, July 2. The eight-day journey will cover five countries—Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, Argentina, Brazil, and Namibia—and conclude on July 9.   Modi’s visit is expected to boost India’s ties with emerging economies across Africa and Latin America. The tour will begin in Ghana, where discussions will likely center around trade, development, and cultural exchange. In Trinidad and Tobago, Modi will connect with the Indian diaspora and explore bilateral cooperation.   The Prime Minister will then head to Argentina to focus on areas such as agriculture, energy, and digital innovation. A key part of the trip will be his participation in the BRICS Summit in Brazil, where leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa will meet to discuss global economic challenges and cooperation among developing nations.   Modi will wrap up the tour with a historic visit to Namibia—the first by an Indian Prime Minister. Talks there are expected to explore opportunities in sectors like mining, green energy, and education.   This trip reflects India’s growing diplomatic outreach to the Global South, aiming to strengthen strategic, economic, and people-to-people partnerships.  

Published 01 Jul 2025 08:30 AM

Muslim leaders in the Karnataka Congress resign as rage over the Dakshina Kannada killings intensifies

Muslim leaders in the Karnataka Congress resign as rage over the Dakshina Kannada killings intensifies

In further trouble for the beleaguered Karnataka Congress, a number of Muslim leaders resigned from their positions on Thursday, including KPCC general secretary M S Mohammed and minority wing president K K Shahul Hameed of Dakshina Kannada district. This was due to an increase in communal violence in Dakshina Kannada.In the most recent incidence, a friend and coworker were gravely hurt when Abdul Rahim was hacked to death in broad daylight on Tuesday in Bantwal, close to Mangalaru. The Home Ministry, led by G Parameshwara, has been accused by the Congress employees who resigned of not doing enough to stop intercommunal violence in the area.In protest of the government's alleged inability to stop the string of "communal murders" in the district and its marginalization of community leaders, a number of Muslim Congress leaders in Dakshina Kannada, ranging from booth-level to state-level, announced their resignations from their party positions on Thursday. Under the direction of M.S. Mohammed, general secretary of the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee, the statement was made at an emergency gathering of party workers held at Shadi Mahal in Bolara here. The leaders were compelled to announce their resignations by irate employees as they debated waiting a few more days for the government's response.Shahul Hameed, the president of the Congress's District Minority branch, informed party members that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had contacted him to caution local leaders against making any snap choices. According to Mr. Hameed, the CM urged him to wait a little while longer and informed him that the matter had also reached the party high command.  

Published 31 May 2025 08:03 PM

To accelerate development, PM Modi calls on states to cooperate with the center.

To accelerate development, PM Modi calls on states to cooperate with the center.

Punjab laments "step motherly treatment," T.N. demands a larger portion of Central tax income, and the PM encourages States to create world-class tourism destinations and incorporate women into the workforce at the Niti Aayog Governing Council meeting.Some States, including Tamil Nadu and Punjab, complained to the Center while others offered proposals to accelerate their growth, despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for the States to unite with the Center to accelerate national development.Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong case for cooperative federalism on Saturday, emphasizing the value of coordinated action between the federal government and the states. He said that no goal is impossible when India works as "Team India." The Prime Minister, who chaired the 10th meeting of Niti Aayog's Governing Council, emphasized the importance of accelerating development efforts in order to achieve a "Viksit Bharat" by 2047. The purpose of the gathering, which had as its topic "Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat@2047," was to synchronize national and state developmental goals. "Every Indian aspires to Viksit Bharat. Bharat will be Viksit once all the states are Viksit. Prime Minister Modi stated, "This is what its 140 crore citizens want."The chief ministers of every state, lieutenant governors of Union Territories, and a number of Union ministers make up the Governing Council, the highest authority within Niti Aayog. The Prime Minister promoted a bottom-up approach to development while serving as the council's head. "Our goal should be to make every state, city, Nagar Palika, and hamlet viksit. We won't have to wait till 2047 to achieve Viksit Bharat if we continue along these lines," he continued.He suggested that every state choose and create at least one internationally renowned tourism destination with all the amenities and infrastructure of today. "One State: One Worldwide Location." The Prime Minister pointed out that it will also result in the growth of nearby cities as tourism destinations.He called for an emphasis on creating "future-ready cities" with development driven by growth, innovation, and sustainability, acknowledging the rapid rate of urbanization in India. In addition, the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of boosting women's employment. He stated that in order for them to be politely included into the labor, rules and procedures must be created.  

Published 28 May 2025 07:55 PM

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Aim to double AUM to Rs 20,000 crore by FY27, says HomeFirst MD & CEO

Aim to double AUM to Rs 20,000 crore by FY27, says HomeFirst MD & CEO

Soon after Covid-19,  the inclusion of an OPD feature in health insurance emerged as a game-changer, as it covered more than just hospitalisation expenses. Similarly, maternity insurance is set to become a game changer as more consumers are looking at comprehensive insurance plans from insurance companies that cover them holistically. Earlier, maternity insurance used to focus mainly on covering expenses related to childbirth, such as hospital stays, delivery charges, and medical procedures. However, this approach often overlooked other important aspects of maternal healthcare. Now, the newly launched maternity insurance plans provide more comprehensive coverage that includes. Given the positive response to these comprehensive plans, the trend is likely to continue, with health insurance providers recognising the importance of offering all-encompassing coverage that caters to the varied needs and aspirations of individuals and families. "A couple usually starts thinking about health insurance when they are already expecting. They often overlook the waiting period that tags along with maternity cover. Most maternity insurance plans until now had a waiting period of 2 years or more but the recently introduced plans have a waiting period of only nine months if the couple is purchasing health insurance for the first time.However, if you are planning to get married in a few years, you can still purchase new-age plans offering maternity benefits. Once married, you can add your spouse to the plan, and the waiting period served by you already is also waived for your spouse. In that scenario, the spouse doesn’t need to serve the waiting period of nine months for maternity benefit," said Siddharth Singhal, Business Head - Health Insurance, Policybazaar.com Thes  new-age plans also cover procedures like IVF treatment, and expenses related to surrogacy and delivery for surrogate mothers. "Apart from this, it also covers charges for adopting a child. The policy also accounts for ambulance charges, NICU and vaccination charges for the newborn from 30-90 days of the delivery among other costs," said Singhal.Point to note: Most insurance companies do not offer maternity insurance if the policyholder is already pregnant as pregnancy is considered as a pre-existing condition and keeps it beyond the policy cover.     

Published 30 Jan 2024 09:34 PM

Sony scrapped $10 bn merger as Zee failed to meet financial terms: Report

Sony scrapped $10 bn merger as Zee failed to meet financial terms: Report

Sony scrapped the $10 billion merger of its Indian arm with Zee Entertainment in part because Zee failed to meet some financial terms of the deal and come up with a plan to address them, according to a termination notice reviewed by Reuters.India's Zee denied the allegations in a letter to Sony, also reviewed by Reuters, and accused the Japanese company of "bad faith" in calling off the merger.A Zee-Sony merger in India would have created a media powerhouse in the world's most populous nation with 90-plus channels across sports, entertainment and news.But Sony terminated the plans on Jan. 22, saying in a statement it was doing so because "closing conditions" were not satisfied after two years of negotiations. Neither Sony nor Zee made the contents of the termination notice public.Reviewed by Reuters, Sony's notice said Zee had "failed to take commercially reasonable" efforts to meet some financial thresholds, including with regards to cash availability, while a "lack of commercial prudence" by the Indian network contributed to its decision. In the 62-page notice, Sony said several breaches of the merger agreement were "not remediable and any further attempts to mutually discuss would be an empty formality, especially given ... plain denial (by Zee) and failure to provide a proposal to protect" Sony's interests."The breaches committed by Zee are not 'procedural or technical' in nature and will have a substantive impact on the transactions," Sony said.Zee responded privately to Sony a day later, on Jan. 23, saying it denied all Sony's allegations, adding the Japanese company's demand for a termination fee of $90 million was "legally untenable".The termination was "effected in bad faith" and "is wrongful, bad in law," Zee wrote in its letter, which asked Sony to withdraw its notice.A Zee spokesperson declined to comment, while Sony did not respond to Reuters queries.Zee's shares have fallen about 30% since the deal collapsed.Its business has struggled over the years. Zee's advertising revenues fell to $488 million for the 2022-23 financial year from around $600 million five years earlier. Cash reserves dropped to $86 million from $116 million in that period.Sony, in its termination notice, said that Zee's cash position was 4.76 billion rupees ($57.26 million) as of Sept. 30, adding that was "much below the requirements" of the merger agreement. Reuters reported last week that Sony was also concerned about Zee CEO Punit Goenka - who was set to head the merged entity - facing a regulatory investigation for suspected diversion of company funds - allegations he has denied. The "ongoing investigation" was cited in Sony's notice.Zee was "unable to realistically assess the timeline required to resolve all the outstanding issues," Sony's termination notice stated.    

Published 30 Jan 2024 09:33 PM

HDFC Bank sees period of consolidation as it absorbs mega merger: Report

HDFC Bank sees period of consolidation as it absorbs mega merger: Report

HDFC Bank, India's largest private sector lender, will take 4-5 years to fully digest its merger with its parent last July but expects to restore a key financial metric to pre-merger levels at the end of that period, two sources familiar with the bank's thinking said. The lender's quarterly earnings last week prompted a sharp 15% decline in the stock, even as its profit beat expectations, as analysts raised concerns about lending margins and sluggish deposit growth in its second quarterly report since merging with Housing Development Finance Co. "We will see a period of consolidation for 4-5 years during which growth rates and trajectory of some of the metrics will differ from what we were used to in the bank but this a different institution now after the merger," said one of the sources quoted above. Before the merger, the bank's return on equity was above 17%, but it has since declined to 15.8% as of December-end. "We are very focused on profitable growth and we will see the return on equity move back to the levels we saw before the merger over this 4-5 year period," this person said.Other metrics, including the net interest margin, deposit and loan growth will be contingent on the economic environment and the strategic decisions the bank makes to adapt to the environment, the person said.Following the earnings, investors and analysts criticised the bank for over-promising and under-delivering on certain metrics, particularly margins.  

Published 30 Jan 2024 09:31 PM

Sony scraps $10 bn merger as Zee failed to meet financial terms: Report

Sony scraps $10 bn merger as Zee failed to meet financial terms: Report

Sony scrapped the $10 billion merger of its Indian arm with Zee Entertainment in part because Zee failed to meet some financial terms of the deal and come up with a plan to address them, according to a termination notice reviewed by Reuters. India's Zee denied the allegations in a letter to Sony, also reviewed by Reuters, and accused the Japanese company of "bad faith" in calling off the merger. A Zee-Sony merger in India would have created a media powerhouse in the world's most populous nation with 90-plus channels across sports, entertainment and news. But Sony terminated the plans on Jan. 22, saying in a statement it was doing so because "closing conditions" were not satisfied after two years of negotiations. Neither Sony nor Zee made the contents of the termination notice public. Reviewed by Reuters, Sony's notice said Zee had "failed to take commercially reasonable" efforts to meet some financial thresholds, including with regards to cash availability, while a "lack of commercial prudence" by the Indian network contributed to its decision.In the 62-page notice, Sony said several breaches of the merger agreement were "not remediable and any further attempts to mutually discuss would be an empty formality, especially given ... plain denial (by Zee) and failure to provide a proposal to protect" Sony's interests.  

Published 30 Jan 2024 09:30 PM

The state governor has appointed Sanjay Shukla (IAS: 1995: MP) as PS.

The state governor has appointed Sanjay Shukla (IAS: 1995: MP) as PS.

The Madhya Pradesh government reorganized its administrative structure, assigning new assignments to eighteen IAS officers and giving thirteen others more responsibility in different departments.On Sunday, the Madhya Pradesh government reorganized its administrative team, giving 18 IAS officers new assignments and giving 13 other officers greater duties in a variety of departments.This is a list of the officers that have been given new duties. The announcement states that Manu Srivastava, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) for Technical Education, will take over as the ACS of the Energy Department. Sanjay Shukla, the Public Health Engineering Department's current Principal Secretary (PS), has been assigned to the governor of the state. Sukhbir Singh, the incoming PS of Food Processing and Horticulture, will be replaced as Principal Secretary of the Public Works Department (PWD) by DP Ahuja, the outgoing PS to the Governor.The Jail Department's Principal Secretary is now Manish Rastogi. The Tribal Affairs Department's Principal Secretary is now E Ramesh Kumar. In addition, he now holds the additional responsibility of Commissioner of the Department of Religious Trusts and Endowments and the Department of Tribal Affairs. The commissioner of higher education will be Nishant Varwade. Dr. Ramrao Bhosle is now the Commissioner of the Social Justice and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Department, having previously served as the Commissioner of the Women and Child Development Department.Sophia Farooqui Wali, a commissioner of the Khadi Village Industries Board, has been appointed to the position of commissioner for the Department of Women and Child Development.Manish Singh, the former commissioner of public relations, has been appointed to the position of Registrar at the Madhya Pradesh State Consumer Redressal Disputes Commission. The Water and Land Management Institute's (Walmi) new director is Tarun Rathi. Saurabh Kumar Suman has been appointed as the Department of Backward Class and Minority Welfare's Director/Commissioner. The position of Managing Director at the Handicrafts Handloom Development Corporation and the Madhya Pradesh Khadi Village Industries Board has been filled by Mohit Bundas. The position of managing director at Women Finance and Development Corporation has been awarded to Nidhi Nivedita.The department of minority welfare and backward classes has appointed Kumar Purushottam as deputy secretary. The department responsible for Free Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes now has Neeraj Vashishtha as its director. Deputy Secretary of the Forest Department Kishore Kanyal, the collector who was fired for verbally abusing the driver in Shulajalpur, has been promoted.  

Published 30 Jan 2024 03:28 PM

The Energy Department has appointed Manu Srivastava (IAS: 1991: MP) as Additional Chief Secretary (ACS).

The Energy Department has appointed Manu Srivastava (IAS: 1991: MP) as Additional Chief Secretary (ACS).

New Delhi: The recently established government of Madhya Pradesh started the transfer of eighteen Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers in a significant bureaucratic reorganization. Manu Srivastava, who is well-known for his contributions to the energy industry, has been promoted to Additional Chief Secretary in the Department of Power and Renewable Energy, one of the major changes. Prior to his noteworthy involvement in the field of renewable energy, Manu Srivastava was instrumental in guaranteeing his state's uninterrupted electricity supply. His previous work in the Indian government entailed managing natural gas affairs, demonstrating the breadth and depth of his administrative knowledge.Manu Srivastava, who holds an IIT-Delhi degree in Electrical Engineering, adds thirty years of expertise to his new role, including an impressive fifteen years in the energy industry. Notably, he oversaw the ground-breaking 750 MW Rewa Project, which broke grid parity and won the President's Award from the World Bank Group. This project was a turning point in India's solar energy history.The only other project in India that serves an institutional clientele is the Rewa Project, which provides electricity to Delhi Metro. The project's case study has received recognition on a global scale and is being taught at Singapore Management University and Harvard University courses.Apart from his accomplishments in large-scale solar projects, Manu Srivastava has been instrumental in putting solar rooftop initiatives into action with the lowest prices in the nation. He is currently working with NITI Aayog to bring solar rooftop projects to healthcare facilities around the country without receiving funding from the government or beneficiaries.Prior to his noteworthy involvement in the field of renewable energy, Manu Srivastava was instrumental in guaranteeing his state's uninterrupted electricity supply. His previous work in the Indian government entailed managing natural gas affairs, demonstrating the breadth and depth of his administrative knowledge.  

Published 30 Jan 2024 03:27 PM

Today at 11 AM, Pariksha Pe Charcha:

Today at 11 AM, Pariksha Pe Charcha: "PM Modi looks forward to seeing you all."

Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow at 11 am for 'Pariksha Pe Charcha'! On X, PM Modi had posted. Pariksha Pe Charcha is a component of the broader 'Exam Warriors' initiative, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which aims to establish a stress-free atmosphere for adolescents.The 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' is a meeting of exam warriors that the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, excitedly anticipates.Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan of the Union highlighted on Sunday Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Pariksha pe Charcha' project, which has helped students become more self-assured, learn how to handle stress, and maintain good health and fitness.January 29 (ANI): Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Pariksha pe Charcha" program, which has improved students' self-confidence, assisted them in managing stress, and helped them stay healthy and fit."Pariksha pe Charcha" is now a recognized national occasion. The next generation of young people eagerly awaits PM Modi's advice on how to relax amid exams. As a guardian, PM Modi launched a program to offer advice to students in order to raise their spirits. Within the Mandapam will be three thousand students. A vast number of pupils will have digital connections. Parents, teachers, and children totaling 2 crore 25 lakh have registered for the event this time," he stated.He announced that Bharat Mandapam will host the 7th edition of "Pariksha pe Charcha," adding that the program has grown to become a nationwide platform for students to reduce stress. It's scheduled for Monday at 11:00 AM. PM Modi said on 'X': "Looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow at 11 AM for 'Pariksha Pe Charcha'!"Pradhan went on to say that by participating in this project, the younger generation would feel more confidence. "This is starting to gain popularity. It appeals to the younger generation. The pupils can't wait to see it. Prime Minister Modi stays informed. He clarifies in layman's terms. Students may now de-stress here on a nationwide scale," he continued. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in response to the controversy surrounding de-reservation in faculty appointments, stated that no faculty seat can be de-reserved by any institute and that the Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers' Cadre) Act 2019 leaves no room for ambiguity in faculty appointments.He claimed that prior to 2019, there was no legal requirement for keeping the roster up to date, but that all changed with this act. He declared, "There is no room for de-reservation in faculty appointments following the 2019 Act. There's no room for doubt. The roster cannot be altered by anyone."He described the action as decisive, saying that it reflects PM Modi's dedication to the welfare of marginalized groups in society that the government, led by him, has taken this official and decisive step to guarantee that no seat may be de-reserved. He emphasized that the 2019 Act, which replaces all prior rules, must be followed by every institution. (ANI)  

Published 30 Jan 2024 03:26 PM

Does the I.N.D.I.A. Come to an End With Nitish Kumars Return to the Government-Led Bloc?

Does the I.N.D.I.A. Come to an End With Nitish Kumars Return to the Government-Led Bloc?

The opposition I.N.D.I.A group and the government-led NDA will compete in the April–May Lok Sabha elections.One of the key members of the recently established Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (I.N.D.I.A.) departed last week to join the state-led coalition in Bihar, casting doubt on the alliance's unity.Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar state and leader of Janata Dal United (JDU), resigned from his position and broke with the Indian National Democratic Alliance (INDIA) before joining the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar state and leader of Janata Dal United (JDU), resigned from his position and broke with the Indian National Democratic Alliance (INDIA) before joining the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).On Sunday, he took the oath anew with his newly appointed cabinet for a record-breaking ninth time.The I.N.D.I.A., which aims to bring together non-BJP forces in order to stop the NDA from winning a third consecutive term in the Lok Sabha elections in 2024, was formed with Kumar's help.His decision to transfer comes as the coalition is having trouble coming to a consensus on seat distribution and electoral strategy.Impact on I.N.D.I.A.: After declaring his new administration, Kumar voiced his displeasure with the state of affairs within the opposition alliance. "We formed a new Grand Alliance in August 2022, but it's not doing well. It does not appear positive for the situation. No one else (in the alliance) has been doing anything, despite my tireless efforts to build a strong, meaningful (I.N.D.I.A.) alliance, Kumar told reporters on Sunday.Desh Ratan Nigam, a political analyst, stated to Sputnik India that Kumar's withdrawal from the alliance will erode public perception, which is a crucial factor in elections.     "With Mamata Banerjee opting to run for every seat in West Bengal and Punjab state president Bhagwant Mann having already intimated that there will not be any seat sharing in the state, Congress has found itself isolated inside the coalition. In the meantime, Maharashtra has also delineated a distinct battleground, according to Nigam.Similar to his opinions, Shekhar Iyer, another political analyst, told Sputnik India that inconsistencies within the I.N.D.I.A. alliance have surfaced in public. "Apart from Nitish Kumar, a few other opposition bloc members have also identified a number of issues, such as Congress's unilateral actions, the absence of any conversation regarding seat sharing, and the lack of preparations," Iyer stated.  

Published 30 Jan 2024 03:23 PM

UPSSSC PET Result 2024: View Instructions For Downloading Scorecards

UPSSSC PET Result 2024: View Instructions For Downloading Scorecards

The Preliminary Eligibility Test (UP PET 2023) results have been released by the Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC). By going to the official website, those who took the exam can view their results. The Commission had previously made available the original and updated exam answer keys. On November 6, the provisional answer key became available, and until November 15, candidates could file objections. The commission released the final answer keys for each shift and day of the exam on January 24, 2024.How to Verify the UPSSSC PET 2023 Results: Go to upsssc.gov.in, the commission's website. Find and click the PET 2023 result link on the home page. There will be a window for login. Enter the necessary information and submit. Examine the outcomes and obtain the scorecard. For later use, save the copy and make a printout. Two shifts per day of the UPSSSC PET exams were conducted on October 28 and 29.   Twelve,58,867 of the 20,07,533 candidates who registered for the UPSSSC PET exam actually took it, while the remaining 7,48,666 candidates chose not to.Applicants who wish to apply for any of the Group B and C positions must have a current scorecard from the UP PET Exam.    Four stages make up the PET Selection Process: preliminary, main, interview, and skill test (if applicable). Those who pass all four phases will be considered for a variety of Group B and C positions, such as Junior Assistant, X-Ray Technician, and UP Lekhpal, among others.  

Published 30 Jan 2024 10:28 AM

At A Rally On Day 2 Of The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra In Bihar, Rahul Gandhi Will Speak

At A Rally On Day 2 Of The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra In Bihar, Rahul Gandhi Will Speak

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Congressman Rahul Gandhi will speak at his first rally in Bihar on Tuesday. He is hoping to strengthen the opposition INDIA bloc, which has been shaken by the resignation of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. On the second day of his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, which entered the state through Kishanganj district and stopped for the night at nearby Araria, Mr. Gandhi is holding a rally in Purnea district.   According to Congress legislature party leader in Bihar, the rally will also be addressed by AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge who has also invited other leaders of the opposition INDIA bloc to share the stage.Young leader Kanhaiya Kumar, who is well-known for his oratory skills and is from the Begusarai district of the state, is also probably going to be there.   The RJD, the oldest and most significant ally of the Congress in the state, is expected to be represented by a representative of its de facto leaders, founding president Lalu Prasad and his son Tejashwi Yadav, who has twice lost the position of Deputy Chief Minister due to Nitish Kumar's capers.Akhilesh Prasad Singh, the president of the state Congress, stated that "both Lalu and Tejashwi would have attended the rally, but for the ED summonses which seem to be aimed primarily at thwarting their visit to Purnea". Notably, the Enforcement Directorate questioned Lalu Prasad, who is in his seventies and has numerous medical conditions, for nearly nine hours on Monday at the Patna office. Tejashwi Yadav has been asked to come in for questioning on Tuesday. Like his father, he is named in the purported land-for-jobs scam.

Published 30 Jan 2024 10:20 AM

The Governments Economic Report Highlights Three Trends for the Upcoming Years

The Governments Economic Report Highlights Three Trends for the Upcoming Years

The government stated in a report titled "The Indian Economy - A Review" released ahead of the interim Budget that the country's economy is expected to grow at a rate of more than 7% over the next few years, making it the third largest in the world. The Economic Survey, which will only be provided with the complete Budget following the national elections, is replaced by an overview of the economy in this report.   Three trends that "will be with us in the coming years" are highlighted in the report.*According to the report, the period of hyper-globalization in global manufacturing is over. "It does not mean that de-globalisation will be upon us any time soon, as countries are only now discovering the enormous integration of global supply chains that have taken place in the last few decades," it continues. Therefore, the report predicts that if an alternative to the globalization of supply chains ever emerges, it will take a lot longer. That won't stop governments from pursuing friend- and on-shoring of production, though, as it will still have an effect on the costs of logistics and transportation and ultimately affect the final prices of goods. The recent Red Sea events might have exacerbated worries about relying too much on global supply chains, which would explain why global trade is expected to grow more slowly in 2023. To put it another way, it won't be simple to export your way to success. In areas where India has an advantage, this emphasizes the need to reduce logistics costs and make investments in high-quality products in order to maintain and grow market share. *According to the report, artificial intelligence is yet another significant trend to be aware of. "Closely related to this challenge is the advent of Artificial Intelligence with the profound and troubling questions it poses for growth in services trade and employment since technology might remove the advantage of cost competitiveness that countries exporting digital services enjoy," it continues. According to the review, the energy transition challenge is the third trend and possibly the most significant.   A single-minded focus on cutting carbon emissions has resulted from worries about rising temperatures, despite the conclusion that the emission of greenhouse gases—especially carbon—is the most important factor. Due to this, developed countries and international organizations have been pressuring developing countries to transition from fossil fuels to more environmentally friendly energy sources, even in the face of ongoing resource and technological constraints.According to the report, there is a short-term trade-off between energy transition and economic growth. In the post-Covid global economy, where growth is a challenge, countries cannot afford to sacrifice the former for the latter.India, according to the overview, is walking the fine line between the two more skilfully than other nations, with installed non-fossil fuel-based power generation capacity running ahead of targets. Importantly, India's unwavering commitment to ensuring steady economic growth is generating resources for investment needed for climate change adaptation, building resilience, and mitigating emissions.     According to the report, the policies that have been adopted and put into place over the past ten years have put the Indian economy in a better position than before to tackle these three major challenges.  

Published 30 Jan 2024 10:10 AM

Netflix To Release Documentaries Based On The Sheena Bora Case: The Buried Truth of The Indrani Mukerjea Story

Netflix To Release Documentaries Based On The Sheena Bora Case: The Buried Truth of The Indrani Mukerjea Story

The Sheena Bora murder case will be covered by Indrani Mukerjea in the Netflix documentary series "The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth."The Sheena Bora murder case will be covered by Indrani Mukerjea in the Netflix documentary series "The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth." Netflix said on Monday that the series will make its premiere on the over-the-top platform next month. The announcement was accompanied by a poster. A portion of Indrani's face was hidden by the poster. She gained notoriety after being detained by the authorities in 2015, following her purported 2012 death of Sheena Bora.The documentary "The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth" will be available on Netflix on February 23. The streamer has partnered with MakeMake and India Today Group on the documentary, which aims to reveal more about the shocking death of Sheena Bora and the arrest of her sister, media mogul Indrani Mukerjea. In 2015, Mukerjea was arrested together with her husband, media mogul Peter Mukerjea.The streamer stated in a release that the docu-series highlights dysfunctional family relationships and complicated reasons and stars Indrani Mukerjea, her children, Vidhie Mukherjea and Mikhail Bora, as well as seasoned journalists and lawyers. Netflix India shared a poster and commented, "A shocking scandal that shocked the whole country, with one family's darkest secrets at the core of it all.Produced by Terry Leonard, it stars journalist Rajdeep Sardesai and actor Ranjeet Sangle under the direction of Shaana Levy and Uraaz Bahl. There is information on The Indrani Mukerjea Story: Buried Truth, which was released on Netflix some months after Curry and Cyanide: The Jolly Joseph Case. The story of Jolly Joseph, a woman from the small Keralan hamlet of Koodathai, who is suspected of killing six family members over a 14-year period, is told in the 2023 documentary series.  

Published 29 Jan 2024 10:55 PM

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