Author: News Desk

Last week, Pakistani Finance Minister Ishaq Dar’s unexpected statement regarding the potential resumption of trade with India has sparked discussions across diplomatic circles. This shift in stance marks a significant departure from Pakistan’s previous insistence on linking trade to the reversal of India’s decision on Kashmir’s special status in 2019. Political Dynamics and Economic Realities Drive Policy Shift Dar’s remarks reflect a pragmatic approach by the Pakistan Muslim League-N, representing a coalition of semi-urban petty bourgeoisie and influential industrialists like former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The economic benefits of normalised trade with India have long been recognized by these constituents,…

In a significant move enhancing cross-border transactions, PhonePe, a leading digital payments platform, has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Mashreq and NPCI, aimed at simplifying payment processes for Indian travelers visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Empowering Indian Travelers in the UAE PhonePe users traversing the vibrant landscapes of the UAE can now effortlessly make payments via the PhonePe app at Mashreq’s Neopay terminals. These terminals are strategically stationed across retail stores, dining outlets, as well as popular tourist and leisure attractions, offering unparalleled convenience to travelers. According to the company’s recent release, transactions will be displayed in real-time exchange…

Indian Railways has announced a change in the schedule of the country’s second Vande Bharat Express, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express. Effective March 18, the train, numbered 22440, departing from New Delhi to Katra will now depart five minutes earlier than its previous schedule. The Northern Railway issued a statement informing the public about the change, citing operational reasons for the adjustment in timing. According to the new schedule, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express will now depart from Katra at 2:55 pm instead of the previous departure time of 3:00 pm.…

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw took to social media platform X to share updates on India’s ambitious Bullet Train project, signalling significant milestones achieved by the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL). Key Achievements and Progress Vaishnaw announced the completion of the viaduct work covering a 153 km stretch, alongside the successful implementation of a pioneering ballastless track for the Bullet Train. Additionally, the project has accomplished 295.5 km of pier work on the 508-km-long corridor connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad, slated for operational status by 2026. Political Implications and BJP’s Narrative The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is poised to spotlight…

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has unveiled an updated version of its robotic snake, tailored for exploring the icy terrain of Enceladus, Saturn’s sixth-largest moon. Collaborating with roboticists from Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotic Institute, the team has detailed enhancements in a recent publication, aiming to create a “risk-aware autonomous robot” capable of navigating extreme icy environments. Acknowledging the unforgiving conditions of extraterrestrial bodies, the team emphasizes the necessity for high levels of autonomy, adaptability, and resilience in exploration robots, especially when human supervision may be limited or non-existent. Dubbed the Exobiology Extant Life Surveyor (EELS), the robot is equipped with…

A groundbreaking achievement in railway technology has been unveiled as a hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, the Flirt H2 model crafted by Swiss train manufacturer Stadler, has entered the Guinness World Records database. The train travelled an impressive 1,741 miles (2,803km) on a test track in Colorado, marking the longest distance ever covered by a hydrogen-powered multi-car passenger train on a single tank. Continuous Operation Throughout the gruelling 46-hour journey, which commenced on the evening of March 20 and extended into the following day, the Flirt H2 train did not require refuelling. Skilled drivers from Stadler and Ensco took turns operating…

Antilia, the residential palace of Mukesh Ambani, epitomises architectural grandeur and opulence. Named after a mythical island, this edifice transcends the conventional concept of a home, embodying the aspirations of many. Concept and Design Inspired by prestigious American architecture firms, Antilia was conceived by Nita Ambani, drawing inspiration from iconic designs like the Mandarin Oriental, New York. Intricate lotus and sun motifs adorn its facade, reflecting meticulous attention to detail. Meticulous Planning and Diversity Every facet of Antilia reflects meticulous planning, with each floor boasting unique materials and designs. A garden floor seamlessly divides corporate and residential areas, showcasing a…

The long-awaited Vande Bharat Express, connecting Dehradun and Lucknow, has finally commenced its regular operations, heralding a new era of fast and efficient travel for passengers. With its cutting-edge technology and streamlined service, this state-of-the-art train promises to redefine the travel experience between these two prominent cities. Operating six days a week, except for Mondays, the Vande Bharat Express slashes the journey time between Dehradun and Lucknow to just eight hours and twenty minutes. This remarkable feat represents a significant improvement over the usual eleven to twelve-hour duration by other trains, offering travelers a swift and hassle-free commute option. One…

One remarkable innovation in the food industry is the emergence of “green meat,” a plant-based alternative designed to offer a meaty and flavorful experience while addressing concerns about animal cruelty, health, and environmental impact. Developed by Kochi-based startup Greenovative Foods Pvt Ltd, their products, including the ready-to-eat Pepper Greenmeat and ready-to-cook Meat-like-Chunks, are crafted from plant proteins such as soya and pea, and are free from trans-fat and cholesterol. Priced competitively at Rs 230 for Meat-Like Chunks and Rs 275 for Pepper Greenmeat, these offerings cater to conscientious consumers seeking guilt-free meat substitutes. Currently, the startup’s pilot plant at Kinfra…

Elon Musk, the owner of X, has unveiled plans to provide Premium and Premium+ features to users above a certain verified follower threshold. These features include reduced ads, revenue sharing opportunities, and more for X Premium subscribers, while X Premium+ subscribers enjoy additional benefits like ad-free timelines and reply prioritisation. Musk’s Announcement on X Sharing the news via a post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk declared, “Going forward, all 𝕏 accounts with over 2500 verified subscriber followers will get Premium features for free and accounts with over 5000 will get Premium+ for free.” In a move amidst escalating competition with…