Author: News Desk

UPI-ATM, known as the Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) service, allows customers to conveniently access cash from various participating banks’ ATMs without the need for physical cards. All you need is your smartphone and a UPI app enabled for ATM transactions. NPCI’s Approval and Initial Trials The National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) has approved UPI-enabled withdrawals, eliminating the need to carry debit cards everywhere. According to a MySmartPrice report, initial tests in Mumbai ATMs showed that cardless withdrawals were more complicated than traditional card processes. However, after a few trials, it was found that withdrawing cash from ATMs via…

Canada has extended invitations to foreign nationals keen on securing permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program. This initiative by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers a golden opportunity for skilled workers with Canadian work experience. On July 17, 2024, a staggering 6,300 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency under the Express Entry draw for the CEC were dispatched. These invitations were valid until July 18, 2024. This marks a significant increase from the previous round on May 31, 2024, which saw 3,000 ITAs sent out. The CEC is specifically designed for skilled workers who have…

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant have finally tied the knot in a spectacular wedding celebration that spanned three days and saw the attendance of 14,000 guests from around the globe. The opulent affair, which concluded nearly five months of celebrations, was graced by celebrities from various backgrounds who came to revel in the joyous occasion. The newlyweds received an array of luxurious gifts, showcasing the generosity of their family and high-profile guests. One notable gift came from Jackie Shroff, who presented the couple with plants, symbolizing growth and prosperity. Mukesh and Nita Ambani, Anant’s doting parents, went all out to…

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced reforms to the income tax structure, aimed at benefiting taxpayers across the country. The new tax regime introduces a more streamlined and taxpayer-friendly approach: Income Tax Slabs Under New Scheme: o Up to ₹3 Lakhs: No tax o ₹3 Lakhs to ₹7 Lakhs: 5% o ₹7 Lakhs to ₹10 Lakhs: 10% o ₹10 Lakhs to ₹12 Lakhs: 15% o ₹12 Lakhs to ₹15 Lakhs: 20% o Above ₹15 Lakhs: 30% In addition to these new slabs, the standard deduction limit has been increased from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. The deduction for family pensions has also been raised from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000. According to the Finance Minister, these…

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024-25, outlining a range of reforms and allocations aimed at bolstering India’s economic growth amid global uncertainties. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the key highlights: Economic Outlook and Inflation Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that despite ongoing global policy uncertainties, India’s economy continues to shine. Inflation remains low and stable, moving towards the 4% target, with core inflation currently at 3.1%. Efforts are underway to ensure adequate supply of perishable goods to stabilize prices. Budget Themes and Priorities The Budget underscores four key themes: the poor (‘Garib’), women (‘Mahilayen’), youth (‘Yuva’), and…

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget for 2024 has been a focal point of attention, marking the first budget of the Modi government’s third term. The budget has introduced various measures aimed at addressing different sectors of the economy, with notable changes in the prices of everyday items and significant allocations for key schemes. Price Reductions Several items will see price reductions due to customs duty concessions. These include: Price Increases Conversely, some items will become more expensive: Major Announcements A significant allocation of ₹2 lakh crore has been made for five key schemes focusing on the middle class and…

HDFC Bank, one of India’s leading private sector banks, has recently highlighted its significant contributions to social causes through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, ‘Parivartan’. For the financial year 2023-24, HDFC Bank allocated an impressive ₹945.31 crore to CSR activities. This marks a notable increase of approximately ₹125 crore from the previous year, reflecting the bank’s commitment to fulfilling its social obligations. Extensive Reach and Impact HDFC Bank’s ‘Parivartan’ program, operational for nearly a decade, has made a substantial difference across India. The program’s initiatives span 28 states and 8 union territories, positively affecting the lives of over 10…

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has expanded its partnership with Rolls-Royce to research and develop hydrogen fuel system technology, aiming to establish hydrogen as a viable zero-carbon aviation fuel of the future. TCS, a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, and Rolls-Royce, a British multinational specializing in civil aerospace, defense aerospace, services, and power systems, are joining forces to tackle key challenges in hydrogen aviation technology. According to a press release, TCS will provide engineering expertise and support to Rolls-Royce in addressing three critical areas: fuel combustion, fuel delivery, and fuel system integration with an engine. All these…

India boasts some of the world’s busiest airports, and the fiscal year 2024 has witnessed a remarkable surge in air travel. A staggering 376.4 million passengers used Indian airports during this period, reflecting a 15 percent increase from the previous year and a 10 percent rise compared to pre-COVID levels. These airports are not only major gateways to the country but also pivotal hubs for both domestic and international travel. Here, we explore the top 10 busiest airports in India, their significance, and the impressive passenger traffic they handle. Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI)…

In a bid to enhance environmental sustainability, Sikkim’s government has introduced a new regulation requiring all tourist vehicles entering the state to carry a large garbage bag. This directive from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department is designed to encourage everyone to help keep Sikkim’s natural beauty intact. Responsibilities for Tour Operators and Drivers Tour operators, travel agencies, and vehicle drivers are now responsible for ensuring that their vehicles have garbage bags. They must inform travellers about the importance of using these bags for proper waste disposal. Random Checks and Penalties To enforce this rule, authorities will conduct random checks…