Author: News Desk
Indian Railways has long provided free bedding—pillows, sheets, and blankets—only in AC classes, with passengers asked to leave linens behind after the journey. Traditionally, these sheets have been plain white, giving coaches a stark and clinical look. But that’s changing. New Bedding on Vande Bharat Sleeper Express On February 27, Instagram user Oindrila Datta shared a video highlighting the new colourful bedding on the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express. Passengers in her coach received sheets featuring aesthetic block-print designs, a major departure from the plain white linens of the past. Oindrila captioned her Reel: “POV: Indian Railways said, ‘No more MORGUE aesthetics in 3 AC’.” She added, “Indian railway just…
Genrobotics Innovation, India’s first physical AI company specializing in sanitation and medical solutions, has won a contract from Singapore’s Public Utility Board (PUB) to deploy 44 advanced robots for upgrading the nation’s water infrastructure. Vimal Govindan MK, CEO of Genrobotics, told TNIE, “The company will deploy these robots in Singapore over the next two financial years, charging nearly ₹2 to 2.5 crore per project. Implementation will be completed within 18 months.” The total contract value is around ₹80 crore, secured after an 18-month evaluation process involving over 600 global competitors. Advanced Robotics for Hazardous Environments The company will deploy Wilboar, an advanced robotic rover designed to clean hazardous and…
The Adani Group plans to invest ₹2 lakh crore per year in greenfield infrastructure projects across sectors including renewable energy, transmission, airports, logistics, and data centres, according to Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ). Speaking at the India Today conclave, Karan Adani emphasized the need for India to become self-reliant in energy and highlighted how resilient infrastructure and logistics networks are essential amid ongoing global supply chain disruptions. Strengthening Trade and Logistics Adani noted that crises in West Asia have exposed vulnerabilities along key maritime routes like the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal, and Strait of Malacca. Disruptions along these corridors can ripple across global trade,…
Amid a shortage of LPG cylinders caused by disruptions in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian government on 14 March initiated commercial LPG cylinder distribution across all states and Union Territories (UTs). Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, confirmed, “After extensive discussions, the government has decided that commercial consumers will also receive LPG. Distribution has started in several states, and deliveries are reaching consumers.” Relief for Industries The move aims to ease pressure on Indian industries, especially the hospitality sector, which has been severely affected by the shortage of LPG cylinders. Rising Panic Buying Despite sufficient…
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is taking a significant step toward expanding urban water transport across India by submitting a detailed feasibility study report for implementing water metro systems in multiple cities. The move follows the success of the Kochi Water Metro, which has gained attention for providing a modern, comfortable, and eco-friendly commuting experience comparable to metro rail systems. The project’s strong public acceptance and international recognition have encouraged the government to explore replicating the model in other cities. Studies Across 18 Locations In November last year, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways requested KMRL to conduct feasibility studies…
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a slight increase in the fee for the FASTag Annual Pass, raising it from ₹3,000 to ₹3,075 for the 2026-27 financial year. The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways confirmed that the new rate will come into effect from April 1, 2026, following the regulations under the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008. Who Can Avail the Annual Pass The revised fee applies to non-commercial vehicles equipped with a valid FASTag. Motorists can access the pass at roughly 1,150 fee plazas along National Highways and National Expressways.…
The Kerala government has taken a major step toward expanding the industrial ecosystem around the Vizhinjam International Seaport by approving the acquisition of 230 acres of land for ancillary development linked to the port project. The decision, cleared by the state cabinet, aims to support port-led industrialisation and create infrastructure that will strengthen economic activity around the upcoming transshipment hub near Thiruvananthapuram. Land to Be Acquired From Three Areas According to the cabinet decision, the land will be acquired from the areas of Kottukal, Maranalloor and Amaravila in Thiruvananthapuram district. The acquisition will be carried out under the provisions of…
A drone believed to have originated from Iran struck an area close to Dubai International Airport early Monday, sparking a major fire and prompting authorities to suspend flight operations temporarily. Videos widely shared on social media showed a large blaze and thick smoke rising into the sky after an aerial object, reportedly a drone, hit a fuel tank near the airport. Residents in several parts of Dubai reported hearing loud explosions around the same time, with some witnessing flames and smoke near the airport complex. Officials from the Dubai Media Office confirmed that a drone-related incident caused the fire in…
Jaggery, commonly known as gur, is widely used in Indian kitchens as a natural alternative to refined sugar. However, experts warn that jaggery sold in markets may sometimes be adulterated with substances such as washing soda, baking soda, sugar, or chalk powder to improve colour, texture, or weight. According to India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), consumers can perform simple home tests to check whether jaggery is pure or contaminated with additives. One such method involves a chemical reaction test. Take a small portion of crushed jaggery in a test tube or glass and add a few drops of hydrochloric acid.…
Aloke Singh, Managing Director of Air India Express, is set to step down from his role in March 2026, concluding a five-year tenure leading the Indian low-cost carrier. Singh’s leadership period witnessed notable developments at Air India Express, including fleet augmentation, expansion of domestic and international routes and a rebound in operations following the pandemic-related downturn in air travel. During his term, the airline strengthened its foothold in budget aviation, expanded connectivity to key markets in the Middle East and Indian subcontinent, and focused on operational efficiency and customer service. His direction contributed to improved performance metrics and strategic growth initiatives that helped the carrier compete effectively…