Author: News Desk
Kerala is on track to enter India’s double-decker rail network, with Indian Railways preparing to introduce the state’s first such service. The proposal aims to extend an existing double-decker train from Tamil Nadu to Palakkad, marking a significant development in inter-state rail connectivity. This move will eliminate Kerala’s current distinction as the only major South Indian state without a double-decker passenger service. Proposed Extension of Uday Express Southern Railway officials have indicated that the likely option is to extend the KSR Bengaluru–Coimbatore Uday Express—a fully air-conditioned, double-decker chair car service—into Palakkad. A final decision will depend on technical assessments and…
Dubai International Airport has retained its position as the world’s busiest international airport in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic passenger levels. The airport saw 92.3 million travelers, a 6.1% increase compared to the previous year. This impressive growth highlights the global resurgence in air travel, as total passenger numbers reached approximately 9.5 billion, a 9% increase from 2023 and 3.8% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Global Rankings and Key Airports London’s Heathrow Airport ranked second, followed by Seoul Incheon, Singapore, and Amsterdam in the top five. Dubai’s success is largely attributed to its role as the hub for Emirates Airlines, a…
Prem Nazir, a legendary name in Malayalam cinema, began his film journey in 1952 with Marumakal and gained early recognition with Visappinte Vili the same year. Over the next three decades, he became a central figure in the Malayalam film industry, acting in over 720 films—a record few can match even today. Unmatched Work Ethic and Dedication Known for his relentless work schedule, Nazir often worked triple shifts and at times appeared in up to 30 films a year. His career delivered around 400 hits, including 50 blockbusters, a record still unbeaten in Indian cinema. Versatile Performer and Beloved Co-Star…
Shantanu Deshpande, founder and CEO of Bombay Shaving Company, addressed the increasing trend of startup failures in India through a LinkedIn post. He acknowledged the inherent risks of entrepreneurship and expressed concern over the emotional and financial fallout faced by founders and investors alike. Five Suggestions for Startup Founders Deshpande outlined five critical suggestions for founders navigating difficult phases: Reputation During Crisis Matters Deshpande highlighted that a founder’s true character is revealed during difficult periods. He criticized those who react poorly or play the victim, suggesting that such behavior leaves lasting negative impressions and damages trust. On the other hand,…
The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) has requested the government to step in and limit the sharp rise in duty-free edible oil imports from Nepal. These imports are allowed under the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) agreement, but the IVPA says the current situation is hurting Indian processors and farmers. According to IVPA, India imported 1.8 lakh tonnes of edible oil from Nepal between January and March 2025. This is much higher than the total of 1.25 lakh tonnes imported from Nepal during all of 2024. Most of last year’s imports arrived after India increased duties on edible…
Ananya Birla, the daughter of industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla, is known for her accomplishments as both a businesswoman and a singer-songwriter. Recently, she made headlines by gifting Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor a luxurious lilac Lamborghini, priced between ₹4 crores and ₹4.99 crores. Ananya, hailing from the prestigious Birla family, renowned for its vast industrial and philanthropic legacy, has carved out her own unique path, blending business success with her passion for music. Ananya’s Professional Journey Ananya Birla’s formal entry into the business world occurred in January 2023 when she became a director of Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd. This…
Authorities in Abu Dhabi have introduced new guidelines aimed at preserving the aesthetic appeal of public roads and creating a more organized urban environment. One key rule prohibits placing laundry or cleaning carpets and other coverings on balconies or windows that overlook public roads. Fines for Violations The Department of Municipalities and Transport issued a warning on Sunday via social media about the penalties for these violations. The fines for improperly placing drying racks outside windows or balconies range from Dh500 for a first-time violation to Dh2,000 for repeated offenses. Similar fines will be applied to those who clean or…
Kerala will be the first state to receive the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, which will operate on the Thiruvananthapuram–Mangaluru route. This initiative is aimed at improving overnight train travel with upgraded passenger amenities and better connectivity. The rollout is part of Indian Railways’ strategic expansion through the Southern Railway zone. Train Design and Features The 16-coach sleeper train is being designed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) and manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML). It will include: The train will have a passenger capacity of approximately 1,128. Production Status and Expansion Plans While work on the Vande Bharat chair…
Construction has begun on a new expressway connecting Varanasi to Kolkata. The first phase, covering a 27-km stretch from Varanasi to Chainpur in Bihar’s Kaimur district, is currently underway. Land acquisition for this section has already been completed. Expressway Structure and Route The expressway will span approximately 610 to 690 kilometers and will be developed in 13 phases. The route will pass through four states—Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal—crossing a total of 18 districts. The goal is to significantly cut down the current 12–14 hour travel time between Varanasi and Kolkata to about 6–7 hours. Districts Covered by the Expressway High-Speed Travel and Connectivity The expressway will support a maximum speed limit of 120 kmph, allowing…
Dr. R K Nair, a Malayali businessman and passionate environmentalist based in Gujarat, is at the forefront of India’s Miyawaki forest movement. He is the founder of the non-profit organisation Enviro Creators Foundation and has been leading reforestation efforts across India using the Miyawaki afforestation technique. Smritivan: The World’s Largest Miyawaki Forest Dr. Nair’s most significant achievement is the creation of the Smritivan Miyawaki forest in Kutch, Gujarat. Spanning 470 acres and hosting over 300,000 native trees, this forest holds the distinction of being the largest Miyawaki forest in the world. Nationwide Impact Since 2014 Since 2014, Dr. Nair has driven the development of…