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Showing posts from July, 2025

Bangalore Airport City, Prestige Group to Build 8,000-Seat Convention Centre

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  Bangalore Airport City Limited (BACL) has partnered with Prestige Group to develop a world-class convention centre near Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru.  The state-of-the-art facility will feature a seating capacity of 8,000 and is set to become one of India's largest event venues. Designed to host global conferences, exhibitions, and entertainment shows, the project is part of the broader Airport City vision to transform the area into a premier business and lifestyle destination.

Maharashtra to Launch Own Taxi App to Challenge Ola-Uber Dominance

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  In a major move to curb the dominance of private ride-hailing giants like Ola and Uber, the Maharashtra government is set to launch its own mobile app for taxis, auto-rickshaws, and e-bikes.  The state-run platform aims to provide commuters with more affordable and reliable transport options, while also empowering local drivers with better commission structures and fewer service charges. Officials say the app will prioritize transparency in pricing and safety features. Pilot testing is expected soon, with a phased rollout across major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur.

Starlink Capped at 2 Million Connections in India

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  Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, has been granted a license to operate in India but with a strict cap of 2 million user terminals. The Department of Telecommunications has set this upper limit as part of its regulatory framework.  Starlink aims to provide high-speed internet access—up to 200 Mbps—across remote and underserved areas in the country. While the service holds promise for bridging the digital divide, the user cap could restrict its broader expansion in the Indian market.

Bank of Maldives Launches INR Accounts from August 1 — A National First

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  In a historic move, the Bank of Maldives (BML) will begin offering Indian Rupee (INR) accounts starting August 1, marking the first time such a service is available in the country. The introduction of INR-denominated accounts aims to strengthen trade, tourism, and economic ties between the Maldives and India, one of its key partners. This initiative will allow individuals and businesses in the Maldives to directly hold and transact in Indian Rupees, enhancing financial convenience and reducing currency conversion costs. The move is expected to particularly benefit Maldivian importers, Indian workers, and tourists from India, who constitute a significant portion of the country's visitors. The launch of INR accounts reflects growing financial cooperation between the two nations and positions the Maldives as a regional leader in currency diversification.

Maharashtra Unveils First Glass Skywalk at Napne Waterfall

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  In a major boost to tourism, Maharashtra has inaugurated its first glass skywalk over the stunning Napne Waterfall in Sindhudurg district. Suspended above the lush green valley and cascading waters, the skywalk offers visitors a thrilling panoramic view of the Western Ghats' natural beauty. This architectural marvel is designed to enhance eco-tourism while ensuring safety and sustainability. The transparent glass floor gives tourists a unique opportunity to experience the scenic falls from a breathtaking perspective. Officials believe the skywalk will put Sindhudurg on the map as a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The project is part of the state’s broader efforts to promote rural and nature-based tourism, and has already begun attracting significant interest from visitors across Maharashtra and beyond.

India, Maldives Ink Key Deals, Agree on Free Trade Pact Terms

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  Prime Minister Narendra Modi held comprehensive talks with Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu in Malé on Friday, marking his third official visit to the island nation. The two leaders reviewed bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation across sectors including health, climate, digital economy, aquaculture, and maritime security. In a major development, both nations agreed on the Terms of Reference for a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Several key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were also signed—ranging from fisheries and digital transformation to meteorological cooperation and recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia. India extended a Line of Credit worth ₹4,850 crore and also eased annual debt repayment obligations for the Maldives. Notably, the two countries signed a UPI integration agreement between India’s NPCI International and Maldives Monetary Authority. PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Malé and was warmly received at the airport by Pre...

India-UK Ink Historic Free Trade Deal to Boost £25.5 Billion Trade

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  India and the United Kingdom today signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in London, witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal was also present for the formal ceremony. The deal is projected to boost the UK’s economy by £4.8 billion and raise wages by £2.2 billion annually in the long term, with bilateral trade expected to rise by £25.5 billion each year. The FTA aims to double India-UK trade to $120 billion by 2030 and increase it by another $40 billion by 2040. India will scrap import duties on key exports like leather, textiles, and footwear, while the UK will lower tariffs on whisky, gin, cosmetics, soft drinks, lamb, and other agricultural goods. A major change sees India reducing import duties on certain UK cars from over 100% to just 10%, a move that raises concerns for local auto manufacturers. UK firms will now have easier access to India’s banking, telecom, and insurance sectors, while India secure...

Bullet Train Project from Maharashtra to Sabarmati to Be Ready by 2029: Railway Minister

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  In a major update on India’s high-speed rail ambitions, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha that the entire Mumbai–Ahmedabad bullet train corridor, connecting Maharashtra to Sabarmati in Gujarat, is expected to be completed by 2029.  The project, spanning approximately 508 km, is being built with Japanese collaboration and aims to drastically reduce travel time between the two states. Vaishnaw highlighted significant progress in land acquisition and construction activities, assuring that the government is committed to delivering this transformative infrastructure on schedule.

Bihar Announces Free Electricity up to 125 Units for All Consumers

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  In a major relief for residents, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced that electricity will now be free for all consumers in the state for up to 125 units per month. The move aims to ease the financial burden on households and promote energy accessibility. Under the new scheme, both rural and urban consumers will benefit, with the government covering the cost of consumption up to the 125-unit mark. The initiative is expected to help lakhs of families and small businesses across Bihar, particularly in economically weaker sections. Officials stated that the scheme will be implemented immediately and monitored to ensure smooth rollout. This development reinforces the state's commitment to inclusive growth and public welfare.

Mumbai to Launch AC Local Trains with Metro-Like Features at No Extra Cost

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  In a major upgrade for Mumbai’s commuters, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the city will soon introduce air-conditioned local trains equipped with metro-like features — all without any increase in ticket prices.  The initiative aims to offer enhanced comfort and convenience while retaining affordability for daily passengers. Fadnavis emphasized that this step is part of a broader effort to modernize Mumbai’s public transport system and ease the burden on commuters without adding financial strain.

Maharashtra Plans Ban on Online Games Amid Youth Addiction Concerns

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  The Maharashtra government is considering a statewide ban on online games, citing growing concerns over addiction among the youth. Officials say the move is aimed at curbing the negative impact of excessive gaming, which has been linked to declining academic performance, mental health issues, and increased screen time.  The state is likely to introduce regulatory measures or a complete ban on certain online platforms. Stakeholders, including educators and parents, have welcomed the move, while gaming industry representatives urge for balanced regulation over an outright ban

Starlink Internet May Cost Rs 33,000 Upfront in India

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  Elon Musk’s Starlink is preparing to enter the Indian broadband market, with potential pricing details now emerging. A Starlink hardware kit is expected to cost around Rs 33,000, while monthly subscription plans may range between Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,200.  The satellite-based internet service aims to bridge connectivity gaps in rural and remote regions by offering high-speed internet without reliance on traditional cable or fiber infrastructure. As India accelerates its digital expansion, Starlink’s entry could offer a game-changing alternative for underserved areas.

Indore Named India's Cleanest City for 8th Year in a Row

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  In a remarkable feat, Indore has once again been declared India’s cleanest city — for the eighth consecutive year — under the Swachh Survekshan 2025 rankings.  The Madhya Pradesh city has maintained its streak through consistent civic planning, public participation, and innovative waste management practices. Known for its strict cleanliness protocols and citizen-driven initiatives like door-to-door garbage collection and waste segregation at source, Indore continues to set a national benchmark for urban sanitation and sustainable city living.

VinFast Set to Begin Production at $2 Billion Tamil Nadu Plant

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  Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer VinFast is poised to kick off production at its $2 billion facility in Tamil Nadu by the end of this month. Marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy, this plant is VinFast’s first manufacturing unit in India.  The facility is expected to create thousands of local jobs and boost India’s growing EV ecosystem. With India being one of the largest emerging auto markets, VinFast aims to tap into the demand for sustainable mobility while aligning with the government’s Make in India and green energy goals.

Tesla Opens First India Showroom in Mumbai’s BKC

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  Tesla has officially entered the Indian automobile market with the launch of its first showroom at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. This marks a significant milestone as the electric vehicle (EV) giant sets its sights on the world’s third-largest automobile market.  The showroom is expected to serve as a key hub for showcasing Tesla’s electric offerings and building brand presence in India. With this move, Tesla is gearing up to compete not only with global luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW but also with homegrown EV players such as Tata Motors and Mahindra.

Delhi Imposes Year-Long Ban on Firecrackers

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  In a significant move to combat pollution and ensure public safety, the Delhi government has imposed a year-long ban on the manufacture, sale, and use of all types of firecrackers within the city.  The decision aims to curb the deteriorating air quality and reduce health risks, especially during the winter months when pollution levels peak. Officials emphasized that strict enforcement will be in place, with penalties for violations. The ban aligns with the city’s broader environmental initiatives and follows years of seasonal restrictions that failed to produce desired results.

Indian Railways Targets 1,000 New Trains, Bullet Services by 2027

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  In a bold move to transform the country’s transport infrastructure, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Indian Railways plans to introduce 1,000 new trains over the next five years. This expansion aims to significantly enhance connectivity and passenger capacity across the nation.  Additionally, the much-anticipated bullet train project is expected to begin operations by 2027, marking a major milestone in India’s journey toward high-speed rail travel. These initiatives reflect the government’s vision to modernize railways and provide faster, safer, and more efficient travel options for millions.

India’s First Steel Pipeline-Integrated CBG Plant Launched in Punjab

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  India has commissioned its first Compressed Biogas (CBG) plant integrated with a steel pipeline in Punjab’s Sangrur district. This pioneering project marks a significant step towards green energy and sustainable waste management. The plant will directly inject CBG into the city gas network, enabling seamless distribution for household and industrial use. Developed under the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) scheme, the facility uses agricultural waste and organic materials to produce biogas, reducing stubble burning and promoting cleaner air. The integration with a steel pipeline network ensures safer and more efficient delivery, setting a precedent for future energy infrastructure across the country.

Starlink Cleared for Launch in India

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  Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, has received the long-awaited approval from the Indian government to operate in the country. This clearance will allow Starlink to offer high-speed satellite-based internet services, particularly targeting remote and underserved regions.  The approval comes after months of regulatory discussions and aligns with India’s vision to expand digital connectivity across rural and hard-to-reach areas. With this green light, Starlink joins the race alongside other global players eyeing India’s vast internet market. Commercial rollout is expected to follow spectrum allocation and necessary infrastructure deployment.

Gadkari Unveils Futuristic Transit Plans for Indian Cities

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  Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a bold vision to revolutionize urban transportation in India by introducing cutting-edge mass transit systems in major cities like Bengaluru and Delhi. The proposed projects include hyperloop networks, pod taxis, and high-speed electric rapid bus systems aimed at easing congestion, reducing emissions, and modernizing public mobility.  These initiatives reflect the government’s push toward sustainable, tech-driven infrastructure solutions to meet the needs of rapidly growing urban populations.

RailOne App Revolutionizes Train Travel with Lightning-Fast Capacity

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  Indian Railways has unveiled its latest digital innovation, the RailOne app, setting new benchmarks in scale and speed for railway services. Designed to streamline user experience, the app can handle a staggering 150,000 bookings and over 4 million inquiries per minute, offering unmatched efficiency during peak hours.  Built with next-gen architecture and backed by robust cloud infrastructure, RailOne aims to eliminate delays, booking errors, and server crashes that have long plagued passengers. This powerful upgrade marks a significant leap towards a digitally empowered and passenger-centric railway ecosystem.

HD Hyundai, Cochin Shipyard Sign MoU to Boost Maritime Ties

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  South Korea’s HD Hyundai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India’s largest shipbuilder, Cochin Shipyard Limited, to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the maritime sector. The agreement aims to facilitate technology transfer, joint development of eco-friendly ships, and exploration of global shipbuilding markets. This strategic partnership is expected to enhance India’s shipbuilding capabilities while deepening Indo-Korean industrial collaboration in the blue economy.

India’s First Disneyland to Come Up in Gurugram, Announces Haryana CM

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  In a landmark announcement, Haryana Chief Minister has revealed that India will soon get its first Disneyland-style theme park, set to be built in Gurugram. Spanning an impressive 500 acres, the project aims to become a world-class entertainment destination and a major tourism magnet.  This ambitious initiative is expected to generate massive employment opportunities, boost local infrastructure, and attract both domestic and international visitors. The theme park will be modeled on global Disney standards, signaling a new era for India’s leisure and entertainment sector.

Hyundai Creta Tops June 2025 Sales Charts in India

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  Hyundai Creta has emerged as the highest-selling passenger vehicle in India for June 2025, marking a significant milestone for the compact SUV. Known for its stylish design, advanced features, and strong road presence, the Creta continues to dominate in a highly competitive segment.  This achievement reflects the growing preference among Indian consumers for premium yet practical SUVs. With consistent updates and Hyundai’s trusted brand value, the Creta maintains its stronghold as a market favorite across metro and tier-2 cities alike.

Apple Begins Prototyping Foldable iPhone for 2026 Launch

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  Apple has officially entered the foldable smartphone race, beginning early prototyping of its first-ever foldable iPhone, with a potential launch slated for 2026. According to supply chain sources, the tech giant is currently testing several hinge and display configurations to ensure durability and seamless user experience. The prototype is expected to feature a clamshell design, similar to Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip, but with Apple’s signature refinements in hardware and software integration. This move signals Apple’s ambition to reshape the high-end smartphone segment once again, combining portability with performance. The foldable iPhone could debut alongside iOS optimizations tailored for flexible displays, offering multitasking, split-screen apps, and adaptive UI. While the final design and specs remain under wraps, industry analysts believe Apple’s entry will elevate foldable technology into the mainstream.

India Developing New Bunker-Buster Missiles

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  India has initiated the development of a new class of high-powered missiles designed specifically to penetrate and destroy fortified underground bunkers. These next-generation weapons will significantly enhance the country’s strategic strike capabilities, especially against hardened enemy targets such as subterranean command centers, weapons depots, and tunnels. The move marks a significant leap in indigenous missile technology, combining deep-strike precision with advanced warhead engineering. According to sources cited by Hindustan Times , these bunker-busters are being developed to meet future battlefield needs and boost deterrence. With this advancement, India joins a select group of nations with the capability to neutralize deeply buried threats in hostile territory.

Why Indian Mangoes Are the UAE's Ultimate Summer Delight

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Every year, as temperatures rise in the UAE, so does excitement among fruit lovers—the arrival of Indian mangoes signals the true start of summer. From April to July, fruit shelves across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond are filled with golden, fragrant mangoes, imported directly from India’s sun-soaked farms in Maharashtra and Gujarat. This seasonal influx isn’t just about satisfying taste buds; it’s a billion-dirham business. In the 2023–24 financial year alone, the UAE imported 15,336 metric tonnes of Indian mangoes, making it India’s largest overseas market for the fruit. This booming trade is powered by the UAE’s large South Asian diaspora and a growing appreciation among locals for premium mango varieties. At the top of the list is the legendary Alphonso, or Hapus, loved for its creamy texture and intense sweetness. Despite being a luxury item, Alphonsos consistently sell out across major UAE supermarkets. Kesar mangoes from Gujarat offer a distinct aroma and a sweet-tart balance tha...

Jio Set to Overtake T-Mobile as World’s Largest FWA Provider

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  Reliance Jio is poised to become the world’s largest fixed wireless access (FWA) provider, overtaking global telecom giant T-Mobile. With rapid deployment of 5G infrastructure across India, Jio has aggressively expanded its FWA user base, offering high-speed internet in areas underserved by traditional fiber. According to industry analysts, Jio’s scalable model, competitive pricing, and deep rural penetration have accelerated adoption, positioning it ahead of global rivals. The move marks a major milestone not only for Jio but for India’s digital connectivity ambitions. Experts believe Jio’s dominance in FWA could reshape global broadband trends, especially in emerging markets where wireless solutions are more feasible than wired networks.