Author: News Desk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the worsening situation in West Asia. In a post on X, PM Modi said the conversation focused on the “serious situation” unfolding in the region, expressing concern over rising tensions, civilian casualties, and damage to infrastructure. This marked PM Modi’s first direct discussion with an Iranian leader since the outbreak of the war following joint United States-Israel attacks on Iran on February 28. Earlier, S. Jaishankar had spoken with Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi. During the call, PM Modi highlighted India’s priorities: the safety and security of Indian nationals and…

The conflict involving Iran, United States, and Israel continues to intensify across West Asia, with several Gulf nations reporting missile and drone interceptions amid growing regional instability. UAE Intercepts Missiles and Drones Authorities in the United Arab Emirates said they intercepted 10 missiles and 26 drones on Thursday as hostilities linked to the ongoing conflict expanded across the Gulf. Similar defensive actions were reported by neighboring countries including Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, indicating a widening security threat in the region. Mojtaba Khamenei Vows Retaliation In a statement broadcast on Iranian state television, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, promised retaliation for…

A rare and highly prized fruit, the Miyazaki mango—often called “Eggs of the Sun”—has been successfully cultivated on a rooftop terrace in Udupi. Gardener Joseph Lobo’s experiment demonstrates that even luxury fruits, traditionally grown in specialized orchards, can thrive in limited urban spaces, inspiring other home gardeners to explore exotic crops. Japan’s Luxury Mango Reaches Indian Terraces Originating in Japan, the Miyazaki mango is known for its deep red color, creamy texture, and intensely sweet flavor. The fruit commands remarkable prices in luxury markets, sometimes selling for Rs 2.5 lakh to 3 lakh per kilogram. Its high value and delicate…

The government announced that the cooperative-run ride-hailing service Bharat Taxi will be rolled out to all major cities and talukas within the next two to three years. Union Minister of State for Cooperation Krishan Pal said the platform was launched to empower drivers, increase their earnings, and provide them with ownership in the service. Easy, Secure, and Transparent Ride Booking Bharat Taxi bookings can be made through a mobile app that ensures security, transparency, and has been integrated with the Delhi Police for added safety. The platform is already operational in Delhi-NCR and in cities across Gujarat including Ahmedabad, Rajkot,…

Watch retailer Just In Time has appointed Bollywood actor Ayushmann Khurrana as its new brand ambassador as part of its strategy to strengthen its appeal among young and style-conscious consumers. The announcement comes alongside the launch of the brand’s flagship boutique in Connaught Place, New Delhi, marking a significant step in the company’s retail expansion strategy. Just In Time is one of India’s largest multi-brand watch retail chains, offering a wide range of global and premium watch brands. By partnering with Ayushmann Khurrana, the company aims to reinforce its positioning as a modern lifestyle destination for watch enthusiasts. Known for his versatile film choices and…

India is moving forward with the development of three types of small modular reactors (SMRs), including one specifically aimed at hydrogen production, according to a statement in the Lok Sabha. Union Minister Jitendra Singh detailed that the three designs include the 220 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor BSMR-200, the 55 MWe SMR-55, and a 5 MWth high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGCR) intended for hydrogen generation. Construction Sites and Costs The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) will construct the lead units at existing facilities. The Tarapur Atomic Power Station has been selected for BSMR-200 and SMR-55 units, while the BARC Vizag site…

Hical Technologies has secured a long-term contract from Dassault Aviation to supply critical components for the Rafale multirole fighter jets. Under the agreement, Hical will manufacture specialized mission-critical products used in the control systems of these advanced aircraft. The components will be engineered to meet Dassault Aviation’s stringent standards for precision, reliability, and performance, ensuring they are fully qualified for operational use. Supplying Mission-Critical Components The new contract positions Hical Technologies as a key supplier for Rafale’s control systems. These components are vital for the aircraft’s operational control mechanisms, making their quality and reliability essential. Dassault Aviation awarded the contract…

Japanese electronics components manufacturer Hirose Electric Co. Ltd. is set to establish its first manufacturing facility in India, choosing Tamil Nadu as the location for the new plant. The project will involve an investment of around ₹100 crore and marks the company’s entry into the country’s manufacturing ecosystem. The announcement was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding exchanged between company officials and the Government of Tamil Nadu in the presence of Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and Industries Minister T. R. B. Rajaa. Phase 1 to Create Jobs and Produce Precision Components The first phase of the project is expected…

Renowned contemporary artist Jitish Kallat has been appointed President of the Kochi‑Muziris Biennale, one of India’s most prominent international contemporary art events. The announcement was made by Kochi Biennale Foundation chairperson Venu V. Kallat will take on the responsibility of chairing the selection committee for the curator of the next edition of the biennale. His appointment follows the resignation of co-founder Bose Krishnamachari, who stepped down as president earlier this year. Based in Mumbai, Kallat has had a long association with the biennale. He previously served as the curator and artistic director of the second edition (2014–15) and is also a member of the foundation’s Board of Trustees. The Kochi‑Muziris Biennale, launched…

Adani Enterprises has announced a ₹1,342 crore acquisition aimed at strengthening its infrastructure portfolio. The deal involves acquiring a 100% stake in DP Jain TOT Toll Roads Private Limited, a toll road operator. The acquisition is being carried out through Adani Road Transport Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Adani Enterprises that manages the group’s road infrastructure business. DP Jain TOT Toll Roads operates the Palanpur–Radhanpur–Samkhiyali stretch of National Highway-27 in Gujarat, under a concession agreement that allows the company to collect toll and maintain the highway for around 20 years. With the acquisition, Adani Enterprises will gain full ownership and operational control of the…