Author: News Desk

Palki Sharma has launched a new digital-first media platform called India Global Review (IGR) after stepping down from Network18. The move marks a transition from traditional newsroom roles to independent, founder-led journalism. Shift from anchor to media entrepreneur Known for her international news coverage at WION and CNN-News18, Sharma is now building her own newsroom focused on global stories presented from an Indian perspective. The platform aims to combine reporting, production, and storytelling under one independent structure. Hiring and newsroom expansion underway The venture has already begun expanding its team, hiring across roles such as writers, video editors, producers, graphic…

The United Arab Emirates’ reported move to leave OPEC after nearly six decades is being viewed as both a political and economic decision. Analysts suggest it could weaken the oil cartel and challenge Saudi Arabia’s influence as its informal leader. Growing tensions within the Gulf Frictions between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh have been building for some time, mainly over differences in oil production goals. The UAE has wanted higher output, while Saudi Arabia has pushed for tighter supply controls. These tensions were partially masked by shared concerns over Iran during recent regional conflicts. Strained ties with Pakistan Relations between the…

US-based private equity firm KKR has invested ₹1,750 crore in Kerala-based Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) as part of its ongoing push to strengthen the hospital chain’s expansion and acquisition plans. This latest infusion, done through a rights issue, takes KKR’s total investment in BMH to over ₹5,100 crore since it first acquired a stake in July 2024. With this round, KKR’s ownership in the hospital group has risen to around 75%. The funding is expected to support both organic growth and strategic acquisitions as BMH expands its presence in southern India. The approach follows KKR’s earlier healthcare investments, where it…

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) reported a solid performance for the quarter and year ended March 2026, with strong growth across revenue, profit, and operational volumes. Revenue rose 26% in Q4 and 25% for the full year, while EBITDA and net profit also recorded steady double-digit growth, reflecting consistent business momentum. Management highlights strong execution The company credited its performance to disciplined execution, resilient operations, and record cargo handling. Despite global uncertainty and geopolitical disruptions, APSEZ exceeded its guidance and achieved record cargo volumes, supported by rapid expansion in logistics and marine businesses. Expansion across business segments…

During IPL 2026, a recent match between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings drew attention after Riyan Parag was reportedly seen vaping in the dressing room. The video quickly went viral, sparking discussion since smoking and similar activities are strictly prohibited inside dressing rooms and stadium premises, with violations potentially leading to disciplinary action. What vaping means Vaping refers to the use of battery-powered devices that heat a liquid to produce an aerosol, which is then inhaled. These liquids may contain nicotine, flavouring agents, and other chemicals. Health effects of vaping Experts note that short-term effects can include throat irritation, coughing,…

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that India is preparing a roadmap to add 92 vessels in the current financial year with an investment of around ₹51,383 crore. The plan aims to strengthen domestic shipping capacity and reduce dependence on external fleets. Focus on self-reliant maritime growth The government targets an additional 2.85 million gross tonnage (GT) capacity as part of its “Atmanirbhar Shipping” strategy. The push includes expanding container ships, LPG and crude carriers, green tugs, and other specialised vessels to improve resilience in global trade disruptions. Strategic review amid Strait of Hormuz concerns A high-level meeting was held in…

Colombia’s so-called “cocaine hippos,” descendants of animals illegally imported by Pablo Escobar in the 1980s, have become a major environmental concern. After Escobar’s death in 1993, the hippos were left behind and gradually spread across the Magdalena River basin. With no natural predators and favorable conditions, their population has grown rapidly, making Colombia home to the largest wild hippo population outside Africa. Authorities have classified them as an invasive species because they disrupt local ecosystems. The hippos compete with native animals for resources, alter aquatic habitats, and impact biodiversity by changing water chemistry and vegetation patterns. Their presence also poses…

PepsiCo India head Jagrut Kotecha has outlined a major change in the company’s beverage strategy, aiming to move its product mix from 55–60% zero-sugar and mid-calorie drinks to nearly 100% by 2030. The goal is to align with growing demand for healthier beverage choices. Focus on consumer awareness and adoption The transition will require strong marketing and consumer education to shift long-standing taste preferences. PepsiCo will need to encourage adoption of healthier options, some of which may be priced higher than traditional drinks. Digital tools and distribution expansion The company is using digital platforms like WhatsApp-based consumer engagement, social listening,…

Indian airlines are set to resume full operations at Hamad International Airport in Doha from May 1, marking a major step toward restoring normal air connectivity in the region. The move comes two months after a major US-Israeli military operation in late February triggered wider regional tensions affecting air travel. Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo will lead the restart of services, reconnecting Doha with several key Indian cities and regional hubs. According to the Indian Embassy in Qatar, flight operations will gradually expand as coordination with aviation authorities continues, though schedules may still change depending on the situation.…

India is reportedly planning to procure Russian R-37M long-range air-to-air missiles in a deal worth about $1.2 billion, with the aim of strengthening its ability to target high-value support aircraft and reshape air combat dynamics in South Asia. Unlike traditional air battles focused on fighter-to-fighter engagement, this capability shifts attention toward disabling key support systems like airborne warning aircraft, refuelling tankers, and command platforms that coordinate modern air operations. The R-37M, known for its extreme range of over 300 km, is designed to strike such strategic targets well beyond standard engagement distances, potentially reducing an opponent’s overall aerial effectiveness by…