Author: News Desk

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is known for its challenging questions in exams and interviews. One such question could be: Why do we say Indian Railways instead of Indian Railway? The answer lies in the structure of the vast railway network in India. Multiple Zones Make Indian RailwaysIndian Railways is not a single railway system but a collection of multiple zones that span the entire country. Currently, there are 17 zones, each responsible for managing specific regions. The 17 Zones of Indian Railways Governance and AuthorityEach zone operates under the supervision of the Railway Board, which is led by its chairman and…

Scaling up a business, handling funding fears, and knowing when to exit are pivotal decisions every entrepreneur faces. MSA Kumar, the former president of TiE Kerala and a family business advisor, offers valuable insights on these topics, drawing from his extensive experience with family businesses and startups. The Importance of Scaling Up in a Business Scaling up is a critical stage for any business, whether it’s a startup or a family-run venture. According to MSA Kumar, scaling requires careful planning and a robust strategy. He explains that a scalable business model is the foundation for growth, where the expansion does…

Shantanu Naidu, Ratan Tata’s trusted manager, has unveiled the Jaipur edition of Bookies, a community initiative aimed at reviving the love for reading. This passion project, which encourages people to read in public spaces in silence, was first introduced in Mumbai and has since expanded to Pune and Bengaluru. Expanding the Reading Movement Shantanu announced the Jaipur launch on LinkedIn, inviting readers to sign up for the event on December 8. He also expressed plans to bring Bookies to other Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Surat. The initiative aims to restore the importance of reading in today’s fast-paced…

Airports today go beyond being transit hubs; they are designed as iconic landmarks that reflect a destination’s essence. The Prix Versailles, an annual event celebrating exceptional modern architecture, recently announced its list of the world’s most beautiful airports during its 10th edition held at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris. No Indian Airports in the Spotlight While the list highlighted global excellence, no Indian airport was included this year. Among the recognized airports, two from Asia stood out: Singapore’s Changi Airport Terminal 2 and Thailand’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. Changi Airport: A Destination Itself Changi also houses over 300 retail and dining outlets and a…

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced a major boost in India’s tunnel infrastructure at the ‘World Tunnel Day 2024 Conference on Safe & Sustainable Tunneling.’ He revealed that 75 tunnel projects worth ₹49,000 crore are currently under construction across the country. These projects are part of the government’s vision to establish world-class infrastructure. Completed Projects and Ongoing Developments NHAI has already completed 35 tunnel projects covering 49 km, costing ₹20,000 crore. Meanwhile, 75 more projects, spanning 146 km and costing ₹49,000 crore, are underway. Additionally, the government plans to launch 78 new tunnel projects, covering 285 km…

Mahindra University has partnered with Airbus to promote innovation, research, and education in aerospace and digital technologies, aiming to develop a future-ready workforce in India. The collaboration will focus on curriculum development, industry training, faculty and student exchanges, and advanced research in areas like AI, machine learning, analytics, and cybersecurity. Anand Mahindra, Chancellor of Mahindra University, expressed gratitude to Airbus for the partnership, which aims to shape the future of both sectors. The MoU will enhance internship and placement opportunities for students, host joint events such as symposiums and workshops, and foster connections with global aerospace institutes. Remi Maillard, President…

Isha Ambani recently sold her lavish Los Angeles mansion to Hollywood power couple Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez for a reported ₹494 crore, according to the Economic Times. The mansion, which holds sentimental value for Isha, was where she lived during her 2022 pregnancy, with her mother, Nita Ambani, by her side. A Long Journey to the Sale The property had been listed intermittently for sale over the past five years before the cash deal was finalized with the Hollywood stars. Luxurious Features Spanning 5.2 acres in Beverly Hills, the estate offers a range of extravagant amenities, including a 155-foot…

Irish Rail has showcased the first of its new battery/overhead electric hybrid trains, a step toward modernising the country’s rail network. This hybrid train, built by French manufacturer Alstom, will undergo rigorous safety tests before entering service in 2026 on the Dublin to Drogheda route. Next-Gen Hybrid Trains The new fleet features a blend of battery and traditional overhead electric power, providing a solution for extending service beyond current electrified lines. Irish Rail is set to commission up to 750 electric/battery-powered trains over the next decade, with a 15-year maintenance plan in place. Enhanced Passengers Experience The trains are designed…

Mission 2040: Transforming Kerala TiEcon Kerala 2024 emerged as a pivotal event, shaping the future of Kerala’s entrepreneurial landscape. Renowned historian and writer, William Dalrymple, lauded the conference for its role in fostering a new era of entrepreneurship in the state. A Deep Dive into Kerala’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem The conference, led by KSIDC Chairman C. Balagopal, brought together industry leaders and emerging entrepreneurs for insightful discussions. Key figures like V.K. Mathews (IBS Software), Paul Thomas (ESAF Small Finance Bank), and Navas Meeran (Meeran Group) shared their experiences and insights on industry trends and future opportunities. Startup Success Stories and Future…

Building a successful startup is no easy feat, and Jeffrey Tiong, founder and CEO of Patsnap, knows this all too well. Tiong’s journey, spanning 17 years, took him from a fresh graduate with no experience to the leader of a Singapore-based unicorn company surpassing $100 million in annual recurring revenue. Despite facing countless setbacks and personal lows, his persistence and belief in his vision led him to build Patsnap into a thriving business. The Start of Patsnap Tiong’s entrepreneurial path began right after college when he started Patsnap at age 24. Inspired by his work at a medical devices startup…