Author: News Desk

Elon Musk’s Starlink aims to transform internet access in India, especially in remote regions where traditional broadband infrastructure is lacking. By using low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, Starlink promises high-speed internet with speeds of up to 200 Mbps, making video calls, online education, and streaming much smoother. Unlike traditional satellite internet, which suffers from high latency exceeding 600 milliseconds, Starlink significantly reduces this to just 20-30 milliseconds, offering a more seamless experience. While fiber-optic services like JioFiber and Airtel Xstream have even lower latency (5-10 ms), they are limited to urban and semi-urban areas. Starlink could emerge as a strong alternative…

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced the signing of Taj Wellington Mews on the stunning Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah. Partnering with BNW Developments, this greenfield project marks IHCL’s entry into the emirate, bringing its prestigious Taj hospitality brand to a rapidly growing tourism destination. Ras Al Khaimah’s Growing Tourism Appeal IHCL’s Managing Director & CEO, Puneet Chhatwal, highlighted Ras Al Khaimah’s unique appeal due to its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and strong infrastructure development. He emphasized the emirate’s potential to redefine Middle Eastern hospitality, making it a key tourism hub. With this expansion, IHCL aims to…

The Indian government has initiated pilot projects to introduce hydrogen-powered buses and trucks, promoting clean energy in the logistics sector. Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, these vehicles will be tested across 10 routes, marking a significant step toward sustainable transport. Hydrogen Vehicle Deployment and Infrastructure As part of this initiative, 37 hydrogen-powered buses and trucks will hit Indian roads. These include 15 fuel-cell vehicles and 22 internal combustion engine (ICE) hydrogen vehicles. To support this transition, nine hydrogen refueling stations will be set up across the country. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) officially announced the initiative…

Flipkart co-founder Binny Bansal has launched a new venture, Opptra, a startup focused on helping brands expand through a franchise-based model. Opptra aims to simplify global market entry for consumer brands by leveraging digital-first strategies, AI-driven localization, and a centralized supply chain. Unlocking Global Markets Bansal highlighted the challenges brands face when entering new markets, such as cultural differences, regulatory hurdles, and infrastructure limitations. Opptra seeks to bridge these gaps by combining market expertise, advanced technology, and a robust supply chain. Initially focused on Asia, the startup’s long-term vision is to take brands global. AI-Powered Expansion Strategy Unlike traditional distribution…

The Tamil Nadu government has replaced the Rupee symbol “₹” with the Tamil script “ரூ” in the official logo for the state’s 2025-26 budget. This move has intensified debates over language and regional identity, particularly in the context of Tamil Nadu’s longstanding opposition to central language policies. Significance of the Change The newly introduced logo features “ரூ” (ru), derived from “Rubaai,” the Tamil word for currency, emphasizing the Tamil language in state affairs. Alongside this, the logo carries the caption “Everything for All,” reflecting the ruling DMK’s focus on inclusive governance. With the state’s Finance Minister set to present the…

India’s space sector is witnessing significant growth, with private startups reaching impressive valuations. According to Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe, India already has a space startup valued at $500 million, with several others worth $250 million. He expressed optimism about India’s first space tech unicorn emerging soon. Funding Challenges and Investor Hesitations While the industry is expanding, funding remains a concern. Last year, India’s space tech ecosystem secured $130 million in funding, but this year, there has been a decline. Goenka highlighted efforts to engage with private equity groups and investors, emphasizing the need to showcase tangible outcomes to build…

Montra Electric, part of TI Clean Mobility, has launched a dedicated manufacturing facility in Ponneri, Chennai, to produce electric small commercial vehicles (e-SCVs). Operated by Tivolt Electric Vehicles, the plant is designed to boost production and meet India’s growing EV demand. Large-Scale Production & Strategic Location Spread across 5 lakh square feet, the factory can roll out 50,000 vehicles annually. Located near the Kolkata highway, 35 km from Chennai, it offers easy connectivity for distribution and logistics, helping Montra expand its presence in the small and light commercial vehicle market. EVIATOR: Montra’s New Electric Vehicle The facility will primarily manufacture…

Saudi Arabia has officially launched the test run of its highly anticipated sea taxi service in Jeddah, marking a significant step toward enhancing maritime transportation. The project was inaugurated by Jeddah Mayor Saleh Al-Turki on March 6, in the presence of Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistics, Rumaih Al-Rumaih, along with other government officials. Key Routes and Operations The initial phase of the sea taxi service will connect three major locations: Two boats are currently in operation—one with a seating capacity of 94 passengers and another accommodating 55. The service operates daily during Ramadan from 3:30 PM to 1:30 AM.…

Tamil Nadu is on track to become India’s key space hub, as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has begun construction of a second rocket launch site at Kulasekarapattinam in Tuticorin district. The new facility will primarily support the launch of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), capable of carrying payloads up to 500 kg. Strategic Location and Cost Benefits The Kulasekarapattinam rocket port, estimated to cost Rs 1,000 crore (Rs 10 billion), will be spread over 2,300 acres. It is expected to be operational by next year and will cater to private rocket manufacturers alongside ISRO’s missions. The location…

Sastra Global Business Innovation (SGBI), a robotics company from Kochi, Kerala, has announced plans to invest £8 million (Rs 90.17 crore) in the UK over the next three years. The announcement was made by British Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds on the UK Government’s public sector information website following his visit to Delhi. First South Indian Robotics Firm to Invest in the UK This marks the first investment in the UK by a robotics company from South India. SGBI, previously known as Sastra Robotics, was founded in 2023 by three young engineers. The company specializes in robotics and AI solutions for…