Indian Railways has launched a bi-weekly special train service between Bengaluru and Mumbai to alleviate the struggles of commuters due to limited train services, overcrowding, and waiting lists. The train will operate on Saturdays and Tuesdays from Bengaluru and Sundays and Wednesdays from Mumbai, passing through major cities and junctions.
Nearly 78% of Indian travellers are interested in ‘noctourism’ or travel experiences centered around the night sky and after-dark activities. Astrotourism is rapidly growing in India, with destinations like the Himalayas, deserts, and forests becoming popular for stargazing and astronomy-related activities.
Green car technologies are on the rise in India, with BYD and Mercedes-Benz launching PHEVs to address range anxiety and reliance on public charging stations. Maruti Suzuki and Toyota are also developing localized range extenders. PHEVs have a high 40% GST, but carmakers are finding ways to make them more affordable.
Golf leagues in India have revolutionized the sport, making it more interactive and inclusive. With regular practice, coaches and caddies are also benefiting, while clubs are thriving. Leagues have brought back the sense of community, making golf more than just a game. Despite initial doubts, they have successfully made golf appealing to a wider audience and sparked discussions.
FSSAI has banned the use of ashwagandha leaves in food products and supplements, sparking a debate on traditional remedies in a commercial wellness market. While the root and extracts are allowed, the ban sheds light on the need for proper regulation in the industry.
Dr. BA Chaurasia from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai cautions about the harmful effects of rising temperatures on our bodies. Heat can cause fatigue, irritability, dehydration, and worsen existing health issues. To stay safe, stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and reduce internal heat by avoiding heavy meals, alcohol, and caffeine.
PM Modi inaugurated Daman's new airport terminal, emphasizing its importance in meeting the infrastructure demands of the Union Territory. The modern terminal is set to boost tourism and commercial activities, with commercial flights starting soon and plans to extend the runway for larger aircraft.
TVS Motor Company has launched TVS Paddock, a new retail channel for premium vehicles like the upcoming Norton range. This aims to tap into India's premium mobility market and create engaging brand ecosystems. The showrooms will offer a digital retail experience, community spaces, consultation and customisation zones, and immersive merchandise sections.
FIFA fans can win free tickets, including pitchside seats, for upcoming matches through Verizon and FIFA's partnership. These tickets are open to loyal fans near stadiums, Spotify listeners, and subscribers. This not only rewards fans, but also boosts subscriptions and views for the platforms.
The audio industry is witnessing a shift towards Bluetooth earbuds, particularly open-ear ones, which allow users to stay aware of their surroundings. These earbuds are ideal for activities like running or working in a co-working space. The Indian market is expected to see a significant growth in the demand for open-ear earbuds, with budget and premium brands catering to diverse consumer needs.
"Home appliances are no longer just single-purpose products like microwaves and refrigerators. As space and urban lifestyles become more expensive, multipurpose appliances are gaining popularity. These appliances, such as Philips' OneChef and Wonderchef's Chef Magic, can perform multiple functions like steaming, air frying, and sautéing.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are getting married on July 3 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, with 1,000 guests attending. The couple has kept the details secret, with guests signing NDAs and the venue chosen for privacy and personal significance. High-profile names like Zoë Kravitz and Gigi Hadid are on the guest list, and the ceremony is expected to be traditional.
In his memoir, "Biting Off More Than I Can Chew", Rahul Akerkar, a pioneer in modern dining in India, shares his journey in the hospitality industry. He discusses his transition from academia to the kitchen, challenges of starting a new venture, and the balance between creativity and commercial realities.
"Mattering" by Jennifer Breheny Wallace delves into the human desire to feel valued beyond productivity. It explores the impact of this need on mental health and relationships and offers a framework for cultivating a sense of mattering. The book emphasizes the importance of balance and reciprocity in relationships and warns against neglecting the need for mattering.
Tom Mueller, the first employee of SpaceX, is now recognized as a co-founder of the company and has founded his own successful company, Impulse Space. He praises Elon Musk's leadership and credits his "infectious enthusiasm" and talent recruitment for SpaceX's success. Mueller's company, Impulse Space, recently reached a valuation of $4.26 billion.
The 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs has the highest entry-level ticket price in sports history, with "nosebleed" seats costing $10,622. This is equivalent to the average annual salary of a mid-level software engineer in Bengaluru or one year's rent for a three-bedroom apartment in South Delhi.
Ram Charan's film Peddi has surpassed the Rs 150 crore mark worldwide in only two days, despite a drop in numbers on day 2. The film is predicted to have a successful weekend and has received praise for its performances and technical aspects. However, its commercial success is uncertain, with a target of Rs 450 crore to break even globally.
Amid an impending drought, farmers, traders, and consumers take comfort in strong reservoir levels, which may offset the negative impact of a below-normal monsoon on crop productivity. The country's major dams are currently at 30% of their storage capacity, above the "normal" level due to two successive years of good monsoon.
India's economy grew by 7.7% in FY 2025–26, exceeding expectations and solidifying its position as the world's fastest-growing major economy. While BJP leaders praised PM Modi's reform agenda and the nation's resilience, opposition parties questioned the figures and called for transparency.
India rejects Pakistan's remarks on Jammu and Kashmir at the UNGA, accusing Islamabad of promoting misleading narratives and using global platforms for political reasons. Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish also called for reforms in the UN Security Council, stating that the current structure does not reflect present-day geopolitical realities and has not enabled effective functioning.
The 'Cockroach Janata Party' protested at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, demanding Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET 2026 paper leak and other education system issues. They urged for an independent inquiry, exam integrity, relief for affected students, and accountability for failures.
The Assam Cabinet has approved a 2% increase in DA/DR for state government employees and pensioners, along with an increase in MLALAD allocation to Rs 1.5 crore per MLA. A Second State Capital Region for Dibrugarh has also been declared with a Rs 500-crore fund for infrastructure.
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles has dismissed rumors of her resignation as "Friday fiction," reaffirming her commitment to President Trump's agenda. The 69-year-old veteran has been praised for her 20 years of experience and has been promoted to Acting Director of National Intelligence. Despite ongoing cancer treatment, Wiles remains dedicated to her role.
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) has called for an immediate and comprehensive investigation into the alleged disappearance of nearly 40 lakh metric tonnes of coal, valued at about Rs 1,600 crore, from Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) in Telangana.
Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), founded by Abhijeet Dipke, has named Saurav Das as chief spokesperson, Vijeta Dahiya as spokesperson, and Ashutosh Ranka as additional spokesperson. The trio brings media, research, storytelling, and management skills to the party, which aims to change the political discourse and lead a new generation of leaders.
A federal judge has overturned Trump's policies that restricted immigration benefits for nationals from 39 countries. The ruling deemed the limits on travel and asylum adjudications as unlawful and lacking authority and explanations. This is a blow to the administration's attempts to limit legal immigration, as four USCIS policies were invalidated.
Revolut co-founder Nikolay Storonsky, a tech entrepreneur, has become Britain's richest self-made tech billionaire at just 41 years old. His fortune is estimated at £16.4 billion ($22.2 billion) and could potentially reach $76 billion if the company goes public at a valuation of $200 billion. Storonsky's company, Revolut, has grown from a simple travel card to a global banking giant.
K Annamalai's new movement, Idhu Namma Iyakkam, received an incredible response with 10 lakh volunteers registering in just 10 hours. He left BJP and thanked supporters for their quick enrollment, citing differing views on Tamil Nadu. The launch has sparked party departures and speculation about Annamalai's political aspirations, with a focus on improving the state.
SEBI approved five new public issues during the week, including Oravel Stays Limited (parent company of OYO), Mehta Hitech Industries, Veegaland Developers, Advanta Enterprises and Truhome Finance. Oravel Stays Limited will raise Rs 8,430 crore, while Truhome Finance will raise Rs 3,000 crore.
The PFRDA has launched the Retirement Income Scheme (RIS) to assist retirees in handling income and longevity risks. It provides two options - SPR and SUR - and adjusts asset allocation annually. SPR is ideal for those with fixed expenses, while SUR is better for those with financial stability.
NTPC, India's state-run power giant, is seeking technology providers to develop coal-fired units that can operate at just 25% load, compared to the current minimum of 55%. This move comes as renewable energy capacity expands rapidly, creating a need for more flexible thermal generation to maintain grid stability.
The RBI's MPC has decided to maintain the policy rate at 5.25% due to concerns over inflation and growth, citing global uncertainty. Governor Sanjay Malhotra expresses worry about food inflation and potential rate hike. GDP growth forecast lowered to 6.6%, while CPI inflation forecast raised to 5.1%. Experts warn of potential challenges.
India's economy grew by 7.8% in the fourth quarter of FY26, driven by the service and construction sectors. Despite challenges from the West Asia conflict, the GDP for the year was at a high of 7.7%. However, the Reserve Bank of India has lowered its forecast for the current fiscal to 6.6% due to factors like high energy prices and supply disruptions.
RBI maintains repo rate, raises inflation forecast for FY27 to 5.1%. Economists predict tightening in second half, with 50 bps increase expected. Inflation projections for Q1-Q4 also raised due to global supply chain disruptions and commodity price shocks. Debate over immediate or gradual rate hike, but growing consensus for hike in August meeting due to inflation risks.
The rupee had a significant increase of 85 paise against the US dollar on Friday, its largest gain in two months. This was driven by the government and RBI's efforts to attract foreign investments, making the rupee the top-performing currency in Asia. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced measures to boost dollar inflows, while the government exempted foreign investors from capital gains tax.
The Mumbai-Pune Connecting Link has significantly improved traffic flow for commercial vehicles, resulting in measurable gains in speed, travel time, and fuel efficiency. The inclusion of cars and SUVs has also contributed to these improvements, with potential annual fuel savings of 2.7 crore litres and a reduction in driver fatigue.
A retired man earning Rs 10 lakh from rent can split the income with his wife to save on taxes, but she must be a co-owner and have contributed financially. Dividend income from regular stocks and InvITs is taxable based on their source. A father who paid his son's education loan can also claim tax benefits.
Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) saw a surge in trading volumes in May, with spot gas trade increasing by 130.39% year-on-year and 26.01% month-on-month. The rise in demand was driven by higher fuel requirements from the power sector, leading to a sharp increase in gas prices. The exchange also recorded physical deliveries, highlighting the growing acceptance of exchange-traded gas.
RBI maintains neutral stance on repo rate, but caution needed as rates may increase. Good time to lock in borrowing costs with 125 basis point cut. Inflation risks and policy approach dependent on oil price hikes. Home buyers should assess affordability and leave room for higher EMIs. Existing borrowers should review loan structure and consider prepayments.
The RBI's surplus transfers to the government have increased to Rs 2.97 lakh crore in 2025-26 from Rs 2.69 lakh crore in 2024-25 due to a new economic capital framework. This ensures the RBI's monetary independence without government recapitalization. The rise in surplus transfers is attributed to increased interest income, gains from forex operations, and balance sheet revaluation.
Petrol and diesel prices are set to rise by ₹5 per litre due to rising crude oil prices and state-run oil companies' under-recoveries of ₹610 crore per day. This could result in a total increase of ₹10 per litre, impacting the economy with higher transport costs and inflation.
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra and Deputy Governors reaffirm commitment to 4% inflation target and express confidence in foreign currency inflows to support balance of payments. No specific target set, but healthy inflow expected. 4% target remains important but not feasible to respond to every deviation. CPI forecast revised upward by 50 basis points, may affect rate hike decision.
CIL offers 35 MT of high-grade coal to sponge iron makers through auctions, supports domestic producers and cuts imports. Policy changes include selling surplus coal middlings in open market and increasing consortium partners. CIL continues coal allocation to power sector and plans SHAKTI auctions in June for 34 MT of coal.
India's economy is facing risks due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, but domestic demand and economic activity remain resilient. The manufacturing, services, exports, and automobile sectors are all experiencing growth. The key factors to monitor are oil prices and monsoon uncertainty. The RBI has revised its GDP growth forecast for FY27, but experts believe it could exceed 7% in FY28.
The USFDA's approval of Zaynich, the first new chemical entity developed by an Indian pharmaceutical company, marks a milestone for Wockhardt chairman Habil F Khorakiwala. Despite challenges in the industry, Khorakiwala invested $800 million in antibiotic research over two decades. Zaynich has a potential global sales of $1-2 billion, showcasing the potential for Indian companies in innovation.
21-year-old Brooklyn Green's viral TikTok helped raise over $146,000 for 85-year-old movie theatre employee Mary Ellen Eron, who had no plans to retire despite fears of financial struggles. The elderly worker was surprised with a retirement fund and expressed gratitude for the generosity of strangers. AARP survey found that 1 in 4 US adults over 50 don't expect to retire.
South Central Railway has announced a special weekly train between Prayagraj and SSS Hubballi via Kacheguda to ease the rush of passengers during the pilgrimage season. The train will run once a week till July, providing six services in both directions. It will stop at major stations and include different types of coaches for passenger convenience.
IIT Delhi and 18 NITs have established a strong academic and research network through MoUs, enabling top NIT students to directly enter MTech, MS, and PhD programs at IIT Delhi without GATE exam. The ALIGN program promotes collaboration with funding and faculty exchanges, reflecting a move towards a more integrated higher education model in India.
Good news for Mumbai residents planning a trip to Goa this summer! The Central Railway Mumbai Division has announced a special one-way train service between CSMT and Madgaon Junction. The train will run on 14 June 2026, making it easier for passengers to travel during the peak holiday season. The train will stop at several important stations along the Konkan route and bookings will open soon.
IRCTC has implemented AI technology to monitor food preparation in 800 base kitchens across India. This ensures clean and safe food for passengers on trains. The AI system detects hygiene issues and contamination risks in real time, sending alerts for quick action. Additionally, IRCTC is also working to make ticket booking fairer for passengers.
India's largest two-wheeler and four-wheeler companies have entered the flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) segment with Hero MotoCorp launching its first mass-market flex-fuel motorcycles and Maruti Suzuki unveiling its mass-market flex-fuel car. An FFV can run on regular petrol, pure ethanol, or a blend of the two in the same fuel tank, making it a cleaner and more cost-effective option.