Author: News Desk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw outlined India’s vision for artificial intelligence at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, highlighting the country’s efforts to promote responsible AI development, strengthen global cooperation, and address concerns related to misuse, employment, and public trust. The summit brought together global leaders, technology companies, startups, and researchers to discuss the future of AI with a focus on inclusion, accountability, and real-world impact. As the first major AI gathering of its kind hosted in the Global South, the event reflects India’s ambition to shape international…

The government informed the Lok Sabha that India currently has 25,001 pilots under the age of 65 holding valid flying licences. However, no centralised data is maintained on how many commercial or airline transport pilots are unemployed or not actively flying. According to the latest data, there are 10,051 Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) holders for planes and 210 for helicopters. The largest group consists of Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) holders, with 12,480 for planes and 777 for helicopters. Additionally, 1,483 pilots hold Private Pilot Licences (PPL). The information was provided in response to a question from Sharmila Sarkar by…

Japan is significantly increasing its investment focus on India, with capital flowing into diverse sectors as firms and financial institutions seek growth opportunities. Strategic acquisitions by major Japanese banks highlight a broader push to strengthen the India-Japan investment corridor, combining commercial banking, investment banking and advisory capabilities. The renewed interest reflects confidence in India’s structural growth prospects — supported by a large consumer base, expanding digital infrastructure and strong economic momentum. Compared to Japan’s mature domestic market, India presents high-growth opportunities that align with Japanese firms’ long-term expansion strategies. Japanese foreign direct investment in India has crossed ₹2.7 lakh crore,…

With just weeks to go before the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Chief Minister M. K. Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the Union government to address the long-pending citizenship and legal status issues faced by roughly 89,000 Sri Lankan Tamils residing in the state. Stalin described the matter as one of “profound humanitarian, constitutional and national importance,” noting that many have lived in India for decades and nearly 40 % were born on Indian soil.” In his letter, Stalin sought a “humane and pragmatic” resolution, including waiving passport and visa requirements where appropriate for citizenship or long-term visa applications and delegating powers to district-level authorities…

India plans to add 50 new airports over the next five years, creating significant opportunities for the country’s real estate sector, K Rammohan Naidu, the Civil Aviation Minister, said on Friday. Describing airports as the “scaffolding” for real estate development, he highlighted efforts to address building height restrictions near airports while maintaining aviation safety standards. India is among the world’s fastest-growing civil aviation markets, with 165 operational airports. On average, a new airport or terminal is inaugurated every 33 days, Naidu noted during his address at the National Urban and Real Estate Development Conclave 2026, organised by industry body Naredco…

Bill Gates, Chairman of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, visited Andhra Pradesh today, meeting Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to discuss leveraging technology in governance and public health initiatives. Mr. Gates was welcomed at Gannavaram Airport by State Minister Nara Lokesh and senior officials. At the State Secretariat in Amaravati, he was received by the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, who introduced members of the cabinet and top bureaucrats. Officials showcased Andhra Pradesh’s digital initiatives at the Real Time Governance Society (RTGS) centre, including Data Lake, AWARE 2.0, and WhatsApp Governance, designed to enhance citizen service…

Kochi is upgrading its urban transport infrastructure with the introduction of fast electric-hydrogen hybrid ferries connecting Aluva to Cochin International Airport. The initiative aims to reduce travel time to about 10 minutes while minimizing environmental impact, according to a Times of India report. Currently, Water Metro ferries operate primarily on battery power with diesel backup. To address concerns over battery supply and diesel emissions, authorities are exploring greener alternatives. “We plan to deploy fast boats on the Aluva–Airport route so commuters can reach the terminal in about 10 minutes,” said Sajan P John, Chief Operating Officer of Kochi Water Metro…

Driver Logistics LLP inaugurated its state-of-the-art Logistics Park at Kinfra Hi-Tech Park, Kalamassery. The event was attended by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, highlighting the importance of strengthening supply chain and logistics capabilities in the region. Strategically located within the industrial and technology hub of Kinfra Hi-Tech Park, the new facility is designed to enhance operational efficiency and support the company’s growth plans across South India and beyond. It integrates advanced warehousing, inventory management, and distribution systems to meet increasing demand from sectors including FMCG, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce. Speaking at the inauguration, Pinarayi Vijayan emphasized that modern logistics infrastructure…

The Railway Ministry on Saturday rolled out a reform to improve cleanliness in long-distance trains by deploying tech-enabled, professional teams onboard. Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Railway Minister, said all coaches, including general class, will now be cleaned as needed, with clear responsibility and accountability for service providers. The teams will be trained to proactively exceed passenger expectations. Previously, under the Clean Train Station scheme, trains were cleaned only at designated stops. The new system ensures cleaning throughout the journey at hourly intervals or as required. Real-time monitoring, feedback, and performance management will be supported by technology. Services will cover coach interiors,…

Kerala-based startup Campervan Camps and Trails has secured a contract to develop caravan tourism in Tamil Nadu, with a planned investment of ₹105 crore over three years to build infrastructure and services for the sector. The initiative was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Guidance Tamil Nadu and the Directorate of Tourism. The project will introduce a “Caravan as a Rental Service” model, expected to create 300 new entrepreneurs and provide employment for around 3,000 people. The MoU was signed by KM Vandan, founder and director of Campervan Camps and Trails; Dr Daras Ahmed, MD and CEO…