The New Jalpaiguri–Siliguri Rail Line Doubling Project is set to improve passenger and freight movement in West Bengal. The Ministry of Railways has recently approved ₹916.18 crore for the project, which will increase capacity, improve connectivity, and reduce congestion on the busy route. The project will also lead to economic growth in the region.
The rise in memory chip prices has resulted in higher smartphone prices, leading consumers to opt for refurbished devices. Counterpoint Research forecasts a 12% rise in India's refurbished smartphone market, while new smartphone shipments are expected to decrease.
The Kia Carens Clavis EV is a seven-seater electric SUV with 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh battery options, ideal for families. However, it has problems with seating and body roll. Its range of 350-370 km makes it great for short trips, but not longer ones. Top models lack wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and prices start at Rs 18.
Renault and Nissan have released their new midsize SUVs, the Duster and Tekton, with comparable engines and features but distinct market strategies and powertrain choices. These SUVs offer advanced technology and begin at a competitive price of Rs 10.49 lakh. The Duster has a hybrid option, while the Tekton emphasizes a completely turbocharged engine lineup.
New research shows that foreign universities in India are financially feasible, with lower tuition fees compared to studying abroad. However, selecting the right branch campus is challenging. DrEducation Research has developed UniGrid to assist students and policymakers in making informed decisions.
IIM Kozhikode's record-breaking 66% female enrolment for its flagship PGP program of 2026-28 shattered a glass ceiling for the entire IIM system. However, a report reveals that the overall campus average is 62.9% women. The PGP-LSM track has 82.4% women while the specialized Finance program remains heavily male-dominated.
India and Canada have successfully advanced in talks for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, aiming to finalize the deal by 2026. The agreement is projected to increase bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. Key topics such as trade in goods and services, intellectual property, and technical barriers were discussed.
The Railway Ministry plans to use a public-private partnership model to implement the East-West dedicated freight corridor, a 2,100 km project requiring over Rs 1 lakh crore investments. The project will be divided into smaller sections and use a hybrid annuity model, with multiple sections being awarded simultaneously to reduce delays and ensure quality work.
Indian investors are flocking to foreign assets, specifically US stocks and ETFs, through GIFT City. Trading on the GAP platform has increased by 80% due to proprietary traders and retail investors. Regulatory changes and high returns from US AI and technology stocks are driving this trend. ETFs are the preferred choice for overseas investments, with potential for more policy support.
The Karnataka State Handbook on Youth Opportunity reveals that 23% of the state's youth are not employed or studying, with major gender disparities. Released by the Future of India Foundation, the report calls for equal opportunities for young people beyond Bengaluru.
Indian-origin billionaire Vinod Khosla and his family are buying the Seattle Seahawks for a record-breaking $9.6 billion, making it the most expensive NFL sale ever. Pending NFL approval, the Khoslas will become the team's new controlling owners, replacing the estate of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a close supporter of President Trump, has died at 71 from a sudden illness. Before his passing, he introduced a bill for Russian sanctions and met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to address their air defense needs. Graham also believed involving China in peace talks and cutting off Russian military funding could bring an end to the war in Ukraine.
IMD forecasts heavy rainfall in parts of India, warns of thunderstorms, gusty winds and lightning. Coastal Andhra Pradesh braces for heatwave return. Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh face landslides, fatalities and massive disruptions. Monsoon deficit narrows, but Kharif sowing lags.
A deadly aviation crisis in the Bahamas during their independence celebration, involving a fatal plane crash and a runway fire, has resulted in the suspension of Flamingo Air's license. The crash claimed ten lives, including members of a popular band, and another Flamingo Air plane caught fire on the same day. Investigations are underway, and the airline has pledged to assist authorities.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari laid the foundation stone for a Rs 600-crore garment manufacturing hub in Dankuni, Hooghly district. The facility will span 20 lakh square feet and add an annual production capacity of 20 crore garments, generating 3,000 direct and 6,000 indirect jobs.
The US launched military strikes on Iran after an Iranian attack on a commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warned against Tehran and mediators tried to revive peace talks. This was the third strike this week and raised doubts about the previously signed memorandum of understanding. Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed.
Indian and Indonesian cuisine both value fire and charcoal cooking, with dishes like satay and rendang influenced by the Chola Empire's ties to Indonesia. Charcoal adds tradition and character to food, and while precision and instinct are crucial, honoring local culture is essential for balance.
Swimwear in India has evolved from a utilitarian purchase to a year-round fashion category. The market is expected to nearly double by 2034, driven by the growing demand for versatile pieces that work for both leisure and fitness activities. The pandemic has also fueled the growth, with a shift towards wellness and travel.
India and New Zealand have joined forces to increase bilateral trade to Rs 35,000 crore by 2030 through a strategic partnership. The implementation of a Free Trade Agreement will open up new opportunities in market access, investment, and skilled mobility.
India's passenger vehicle exports have reached an all-time high of Rs 79,967.35 crore in FY26, with top markets being South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, and Japan. This 30.59% growth in export value is six times that of India's total commodity exports, driven by the export of high-value electric cars like the Suzuki eVitara.
A humped neck can be caused by lifestyle and medical factors like poor posture, aging, obesity, and hormonal conditions. While exercise and posture correction can help, it may not completely reverse it if caused by structural changes. Women are more prone to it due to menopause and osteoporosis, leading to pain and reduced flexibility.
Electrolyte supplements are gaining popularity, but a balanced diet and enough fluids are usually enough to maintain electrolyte balance. Overconsumption can be harmful, especially for those with health issues. The market is growing, but labeling, regulation, and education are needed. Consult a healthcare professional before using them.
India's 1.5 billion population's obsession with the FIFA World Cup is driven by FOMO, despite the country's inability to qualify. The focus on international stars like Messi and Ronaldo overshadows the neglect of the Indian team and domestic league. As their chances for qualifying are slim, India's priorities lie elsewhere, resulting in a low FIFA ranking.
Vessel transits through the Strait of Hormuz have decreased for four days in a row, hitting a low of 34 on July 9. Inbound traffic has improved, particularly for LNG carriers. However, security and navigation issues remain a concern, with one-third of crossings in the dark and US President Trump warning of a possible blockade on Iranian ports and vessels.
Christopher Nolan's adaptation of The Odyssey brings the ancient Greek epic to life on the big screen, but the real adventure lies in retracing the journey yourself. From Troy to Ithaca, Tunisia to Sicily, and even Scotland and Iceland, travellers can explore the real locations tied to the legend. With a stunning backdrop and delicious cuisine, this is a trip that shouldn't be missed.
"Experience a night of poetry, music, and storytelling with actor Piyush Mishra and his band Ballimaaraan at Shanmukhananda Hall, Mumbai on July 12. Actor Ashish Vidyarthi will also captivate audiences with his live storytelling performance, Kahanibaaz, at Bhavan's Cultural Academy and Centre for Arts, Ahmedabad on July 17.
Seaweed is gaining popularity in the culinary world as chefs experiment with its unique flavor and versatility. It is being incorporated into dishes like ponkh bhel and pani puri, as well as cocktails. This umami-rich ingredient is becoming a staple in fine-dining menus and is also being used in home kitchens for salads, flatbreads, and seasoning blends.
Europe is facing a paradox as its heatwave reveals the continent's struggle to cope with scorching summers despite being built for harsh winters. Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, France, and Balkan countries are heavily affected, with heatwaves becoming more frequent and disrupting daily life.
Contemporary homes now showcase statement pieces that are both functional and artistic, like bookshelves that also provide ambient lighting. These luxury furniture pieces are in demand for their originality, craftsmanship, and versatility, using unique materials like stone and hand-dyed fabrics.
Antony Beevor's "Rasputin: And the Downfall of the Romanovs" delves into the life of Grigori Rasputin, a Siberian peasant who played a crucial role in the fall of the Russian empire. Through detailed research, Beevor shows how Rasputin's influence and manipulation of the ruling dynasty ultimately led to their downfall.
India is experiencing a shift towards self-investment, with people focusing on communication, appearance, fitness, mental health, and food. This has led to a growing market for coaching, styling, and skilling services, driven by social media, lifestyle learning, and a focus on foundations.
BJP leader Narottam Mishra's supporters caused chaos on National Highway-44, protesting his exclusion from the Datia assembly by-poll. The demonstration turned violent, disrupting traffic in four districts. Mishra appealed for calm and the administration tried to resolve the situation.
Microsoft is facing criticism and racist attacks towards its Indian-origin CEO, Asha Sharma, and Xbox division. The company's layoff plans received backlash and calls to end the H-1B visa program, with reports of visa applications filed by tech giants. Sharma was selected for a Federal Reserve task force, but faced hateful comments. Microsoft has denied replacing employees with foreign workers.
President Trump has warned of a potential military strike against Iran as threats against his life increase. Israel has shared intelligence about Iran's plans to eliminate Trump. Despite a recent ceasefire, tensions between the two countries have resumed. Iran has accused the US of violating their previous agreement.
India and New Zealand have upgraded their relationship to a strategic partnership, with a goal to increase bilateral trade to NZD 7 billion by 2030 and a NZD 20 billion investment in India. They have also pledged to enhance cooperation on defense, counter-terrorism, and maritime security, as well as address concerns such as supply chain resilience, energy security, and the Pacific Islands.
Odisha government has given Rs 20,648 crore to 1 crore women under Subhadra Yojana in 4 instalments in 2 years. 5th tranche of Rs 5,000 will be released on Raksha Bandhan. Pravati Parida urges officials to complete field verification by July 25 for the scheme to be successful in empowering women.
A Ryanair plane traveling from Greece to Germany experienced an uncontained engine failure, causing severe damage and a chaotic scene as a piece of the engine broke off and injured a passenger. This rare incident brought back memories of a similar tragedy in 2018, but the 61-year-old Serbian man was saved.
Defence Minister issues a stern warning to the Indian Navy, stressing the importance of being prepared and technologically advanced to counter evolving threats in the Indian Ocean Region. He highlights the need to anticipate and neutralise hybrid forms of warfare, such as piracy and cyber attacks, while emphasizing the strategic significance of the IOR for India's economic growth.
Apple has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and two former employees for stealing trade secrets. Tensions between the two companies have risen after OpenAI announced plans to enter the hardware industry and acquired Jony Ive's startup. OpenAI denies the allegations, but Apple claims that over 400 former employees now work for them.
Tamil Nadu government signs MoU with Vikram Solar to boost clean energy goals, with a massive investment of Rs 15,037 crore at SIPCOT Gangaikondan Industrial Park. The project is expected to create 2,670 jobs and strengthen the local supply chain. The state is committed to expediting clearances, land allotments, and utility connectivity to support the initiative.
The Siachen Base Camp is India's highest battlefield where soldiers sacrifice their lives for independence. The treacherous road is made possible by the Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey. Operation Meghdoot in 1984 marked the start of the longest military operation. The soldiers' journey is tough, but they draw strength from the legend of OP Baba.
Government's ethanol blending programme has helped pay cane arrears to farmers and made sugar industry financially viable. Blending 20% ethanol with petrol has saved Rs 1.9 lakh crore in foreign exchange. Sugarcane arrears have reached a record low, with no subsidy for sugar exports since 2021.
In June, the mutual fund industry saw a surge in SIP participation, with 5.55 million new SIPs registered and a record high monthly contribution of Rs 31,781 crore. Equity funds rebounded by 26%, with mid-cap and small-cap funds receiving the highest inflows. Gold ETFs gained popularity, while debt funds faced outflows due to institutional redemptions.
The Indian government supports the use of E20 petrol, a blend of 80% petrol and 20% ethanol, as a means of reducing reliance on imported oil and promoting energy security. While there may be concerns for older vehicles, the government emphasizes the advantages of higher octane, lower emissions, and a reduced carbon footprint.
An account aggregator can assist investors in identifying and capitalizing on key opportunities to increase retirement savings, such as salary increases, bonuses, and the end of EMIs. Technology can help prompt timely retirement decisions and make building a stronger retirement fund more integrated with everyday financial choices, ultimately leading to greater long-term financial security.
The Assam government has allocated a budget of Rs 55,000 crore for infrastructure development in partnership with the Government of India. Major projects include a metro rail system, new high-speed roads, and a greenfield airport. Other road projects and a feasibility study for the metro rail project are also included in the budget.
India has introduced RAINMUMBAI, the country's first exchange-traded weather derivative on NCDEX, to mitigate climate risks. This financial contract is based on Mumbai's rainfall data and helps businesses transfer risks associated with abnormal weather. Mumbai's reliable rainfall record makes it an ideal location for this initiative.
A new report shows that extreme heat is a growing danger in India, causing income loss and higher medical expenses for workers. By 2030, agriculture and construction laborers could lose 22.5 working days per year due to heat stress. India must take action to protect its vulnerable workers and households, especially those in informal employment without social safety nets.
India is expanding its emergency crude buffer by adding a 1.75-million-tonne reserve at Mangaluru and approving the second phase of the Strategic Petroleum Reserves programme. This will increase emergency coverage to over 20 days of consumption and the government is making efforts to make the reserves financially viable.
State-run oil marketing companies are expected to report a combined loss of ₹60,000-62,000 crore in Q1FY27 due to factors such as the West Asia supply shock, elevated crude prices, weaker rupee, and high retail fuel under-recoveries. Refining margins were strong, but retail fuel losses led to a decline of 301% YoY and 251% QoQ in EBITDA.
Benchmark equity indices, including Sensex and Nifty, saw a surge on Friday due to strong buying in PSU banks and IT stocks. TCS and Indian Bank's positive quarterly results also contributed to the rally. Geopolitical tensions and falling crude oil prices added to the positive sentiment.