In fact, the National Family Health Survey 2019-20 found that the total fertility rate of India had dropped from 2.2 in 2015-16 to 2.0 in 2019-20, with the highest fertility rate being recorded in Bihar with 3.2 children per woman, and the lowest in Andhra Pradesh with 1.4 children per woman.
Sanju Samson has made history once again by scoring the first century of IPL 2026, leading his new team Chennai Super Kings to victory against Delhi Capitals. This is his fourth time achieving this feat, making him the only player in IPL history to do so. Samson's masterclass of 115 runs off 56 balls also proves his worth as CSK's marquee signing and silences critics of their 0-3 start.
The Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club is a challenging event that tests a golfer's skills, composure, and nerve. With a serene setting and demanding course, it quietly exposes weaknesses and puts pressure on players. The winner must have both physical skills and mental fortitude to navigate the unexpected and constantly shifting leaderboard.
Delhi government released Electric Vehicle Policy 2026 to accelerate capital's transition to full electrification. Strict timelines set for three-wheelers and two-wheelers, with financial incentives for passenger cars. Scrapping incentives and subsidies for electric vehicles. Public transport and supply chain also targeted for electrification.
India's mid-April New Year celebrates diverse culinary traditions rooted in the land and its offerings. From Assamese jolpan to Punjabi harvest meals and Kerala's sadhya, these festivals highlight the connection between food, nature, and culture. As urban India leans towards convenience, preserving these traditions and their knowledge becomes crucial.
Comic Con India expands to four new cities, offering cosplayers nationwide a chance to showcase their skills. Workshops held in Pune, Kolkata, and other cities to prepare for upcoming competitions in solo and group categories. Judges look for craftsmanship, character likeness, and presentation. Prizes range from Rs 30,000 to Rs 2 lakh. India's cosplay culture is on the rise.
Meta and Ray-Ban's new $499 smart glasses are changing the game by making them everyday accessories for those who need vision correction. With adjustable temple tips and interchangeable nose pads, they are designed for comfort. Meta's use of AI sets them apart, with a planned update that will analyze meals. Competition is heating up with Google and Samsung jumping back in.
The global food system is flawed, with 1.3 billion tonnes of food wasted annually while 800 million people go hungry. This harms ecosystems and contributes to the "triple planetary crisis". Efforts to address this include the International Day of Zero Waste and Recipe of Change initiative, but behavioral change and strict regulations are also needed.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has found their ultimate "X-factor" in Dewald Brevis for the 2026 season. His dynamic batting and wicket-taking leg-spin make him a 360-degree threat on the field. His energy and confidence, reminiscent of "Baby AB", boosts the team's morale. With impressive stats and current form, Brevis is the ideal addition to the Dhoni-less CSK squad.
Young Indian chess players are making waves on the global stage, with support from mentors, coaches, and corporate sponsors. From Chennai to Bengaluru to Delhi, these players are using discipline, ambition, and technology to excel in a game that requires calm and strategic thinking.
McNeill's "The Algorithm" proposes a unique concept for innovation, while Lamba's "Trauma Nation" delves into the hidden issue of trauma in India. Thakur's "Wild Wild East" exposes a fraudulent H-1B visa scheme and its consequences for both American and Indian employees. "Dalit Women and the Fullness of Life" sheds light on the struggles and resilience of Dalit women in India.
"How to AI" by Christopher Mims is a timely guide for professionals to understand and implement AI in their work. It dispels myths and offers practical advice, shifting the perception of AI as an enhancer of human labor rather than a threat. While it may be repetitive, the book is a valuable resource for skeptics and raises important considerations for its adoption.
Western Railway will have a maintenance block on Sunday, 12 April 2026, affecting the fast lines between Santacruz and Goregaon stations from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This will result in the suspension of fast-line train operations and diversions to slow lines. There will also be cancellations and short terminations of trains, causing longer travel times.
"Good People" is a poignant debut novel by Patmeena Sabit that follows an Afghan family's journey to America, highlighting themes of displacement, family dynamics, and cultural assimilation. Through a powerful polyphonous narrative, Sabit delves into the struggles of 18-year-old Zorah Sharaf and the societal pressures that led to her tragic fate.
The Vande Bharat Express, launched in 2019, has gained popularity among daily commuters, business travelers, and tourists for its fast, clean, and comfortable journeys. In FY 2025-26, passenger numbers increased by 34%, reflecting India's success in modernizing rail travel. .
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train has been a successful addition to India's railway system, with over 1.21 lakh passengers on 119 trips in just three months. The train boasts 100% occupancy and provides a comfortable and safe long-distance travel experience, with improved amenities and faster travel time on the Howrah-Kamakhya route, cutting up to six hours off the journey.
The proposed Kharghar Coastal Road in Navi Mumbai will significantly reduce travel time from 45 minutes to just 10 minutes for commuters heading to the Navi Mumbai International Airport. This new road will also establish direct connectivity to major routes, making daily travel easier and faster for residents.
The new financial year brings a shift from liquidity-driven gains to a more volatile phase. Global growth remains uneven, inflation is moderating, and interest rates are stable. Indian investors have a strong opportunity for domestic growth, but must evolve their approach. Re-evaluate financial goals, correct asset allocation, diversify
Iranian delegation honors victims of Minab school strike with symbolic gesture on flight named "Minab-168" after 160 children and teachers killed in US-Israeli strikes. Iranian Parliament Speaker shares photo, embassy in South Africa expresses remembrance, and men's national team pays tribute during match. Iran publicly names US Navy officials responsible for attack.
A 20-year-old man, identified as Daniel Alejandro Moreno-Gama, was arrested for allegedly throwing a Molotov cocktail at OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's home in San Francisco. He was booked on multiple charges, including attempted murder and arson. The incident is still under investigation.
NASA officials held a press conference to celebrate the successful return of Artemis II astronauts after their 10-day journey around the moon. Program manager Howard Hu compared their achievement to his childhood love for Star Wars, while entry flight director Rick Henfling hinted at upcoming missions. Associate administrator Amit Kshatriya praised the mission for building confidence.
Indian Railways is upgrading 157 railway stations in underdeveloped regions known as aspirational districts to improve the everyday travel experience of passengers. These stations are part of a larger plan to redevelop 1,338 stations across the country with a focus on modern infrastructure, improved amenities, and passenger comfort.
A boat carrying tourists capsized in the Yamuna river in Vrindavan, leaving 10 dead, 22 injured, and 5 missing. The boat collided with a floating pontoon, causing the accident. Rescue operations are ongoing, with 16-17 people safely rescued. The Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab have expressed condolences and medical treatment is being provided to the injured.
Prince Harry is facing a lawsuit from the African charity he co-founded, Sentebale, for allegedly causing harm through a media campaign. This adds to his ongoing legal battle against Associated Newspapers for privacy violations. The breakdown of his relationship with co-founder Mark Dyer and the charity's chair has also sparked allegations of bullying and harassment.
Congressman Eric Swalwell, who was running for California governor, has been accused of sexual assault and misconduct, causing his campaign to suffer and leading to calls for his resignation. Many campaign staffers have resigned and fellow Democrats have withdrawn their support. Swalwell has denied the allegations and plans to defend himself.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman wrote an emotional plea to potential attackers after a Molotov cocktail was thrown at his home. He warned about the power of words and linked the attack to concerns about artificial intelligence. The incident is still under investigation.
The Artemis II crew, including NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen, safely returned to Earth after a historic journey to the Moon. They were retrieved by a NASA and US military team and will undergo medical evaluations before returning to Houston.
Rajasthan Royals have struck gold with Brijesh Sharma, a 27-year-old medium pacer from Jammu & Kashmir, bought for a mere ₹30 lakh. Despite his low salary, Sharma's disciplined and controlled style has made him a key player for the team, surpassing high-earning players. Under the guidance of Shane Bond, he has become a valuable asset, proving that money doesn't always equate to success in the IPL.
The MG Windsor is a practical electric car with two variants – 38 kWh and 52.9 kWh. It offers spacious interiors, comfortable rear seats, and advanced driving features like one-pedal driving. However, the over-reliance on the central touchscreen for basic functions, hot cabin due to the glass roof, and harsh ride on broken roads are some drawbacks. It also lacks rear windshield wiper and frunk.
At just 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has taken the IPL by storm with two 15-ball fifties in a week, impressing legends like Sehwag and Ashwin. His lack of respect for reputations and ability to hit world-class bowlers for boundaries on the first ball has earned him the nickname "Vaiball". With historic stats and a 100% success rate in hitting "star bowlers", Sooryavanshi is rewriting the template.
India is developing a policy for processing vital minerals, particularly lithium and cobalt, to support the growth of electric vehicles. The country is also acquiring mines in Chile and Argentina to expand its global presence. The government is collaborating with international organizations to reduce financing risks for private firms.
India's peak power demand is projected to hit 271 GW this summer, driven by a surge in induction cooktop usage due to LPG shortages and global energy disruptions. This shift to electric cooking is reshaping consumption patterns and prompting policymakers to reassess supply planning to meet localized demand spikes. Measures are being taken to increase electricity availability.
MahaMetro to expand Pune metro network with ADB and EIB funding, extending Phase I and II, adding new corridors, and increasing trains and coaches. Central government approves multiple corridors, with a 5-year completion target for 173 km network. Future projects include largest stretch from Bhakti Shakti Chow.
The government's revised draft of the CAFE 3 rules for passenger vehicles introduces a more flexible credit regime, allowing companies to manage gaps without immediate penalties. The draft also broadens the set of technologies that can be used to meet targets, including electric, hybrid, and biofuel options.
The merger of Disney + Hotstar and JioCinema in 2024 has created a content giant with over 100 TV channels, resulting in a monopoly in cricket broadcasting in India. The merged entity holds rights to major cricket tournaments, leaving other broadcasters to focus on emerging sports categories.
Amul, famous for its clever ads, achieves Rs 1 lakh crore turnover in FY26. Its cooperative model and use of trends, nostalgia, and celebrity endorsements contribute to its success. From two village cooperatives to a wide product range and global presence, Amul faces competition from modern brands and must innovate to stay ahead in the dairy market.
Mumbai Police sparks frenzy among Indian BTS fans with clever "multiverse of madness" pop culture reference in viral video featuring the K-pop group's latest comeback. In addition to rumours of BTS leader RM liking the clip, fans remain hopeful for an India tour after the launch of HYBE India's headquarters in Mumbai and Jungkook's solo exhibition in the city.
At only 15 years old, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has become a rising star in the Indian Premier League and secured his first endorsement deal with Complan. Despite his potential, there are challenges in finding appropriate partnerships and managing expectations for the next cricket legends. Sooryavanshi's success will depend on both his performance on the field and his ability to connect with fans.
RBI's monetary policy has turned neutral, creating a favorable environment for borrowers to secure low borrowing costs. However, inflation concerns are on the rise and further rate cuts may not be aggressive. Home and car loan rates have dropped, making it an ideal time to invest in property or vehicles.
The article discusses various aspects of income tax, including the deduction of TDS by companies, advance tax payments, and tax benefits for home loans and foreign income. It advises taxpayers to estimate their total income and tax liability, adjust for TDS credit, and pay any remaining tax to avoid additional interest.
NRIs returning home temporarily due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia need to keep track of their physical presence in India. The Income Tax Act classifies NRIs into three residential categories, which determine their tax liability. An extended stay can lead to a change in residential status and make their global income taxable in India.
Job loss cover is a unique insurance benefit designed to provide financial support for involuntary unemployment. It covers a range of situations such as mergers, cost-cutting, and illness, and offers monthly payments to salaried employees. This safety net is tailored for career transitions and has strict exclusions to ensure legitimate claims.
Ruby Myers, also known as Sulochana, was a pioneering Indian actress who broke barriers as a minority woman in the silent era. Despite facing challenges, she learned Hindi to continue her career in talkies. However, she faced financial struggles in her later years, highlighting the tragic end of a groundbreaking artist.
The government has advised states to procure pulses from the central buffer instead of the open market to simplify the process and maintain stable prices. They have 2.8 MT of stock for allocation at MSP or dynamic reserve price. India imports 18-20% of its pulse consumption and has allowed duty-free imports to boost domestic supplies.
The highly anticipated match between RR and RCB in Guwahati has fans and team analysts on edge due to the local weather forecast. If the game is abandoned, both teams will receive 1 point, impacting their standings and chances of making it to the playoffs. The match must have at least 5 overs and start by 11 PM, with NRR remaining unaffected.
Crisil predicts India's GDP growth to slow down to 6.8% in an alternative case and further to 6.5% in a prolonged conflict scenario in West Asia. The ongoing tensions between the US-Israel alliance and Iran have disrupted oil and gas supplies, leading to higher global energy prices. This could result in tighter monetary policy and slower growth in the country.
It's Friday, and streaming platforms are pulling out all the stops. From a shark-infested hurricane thriller and Shahid Kapoor's gritty gangster saga to the final season of an Emmy-winning comedy, this weekend's OTT roster is stacked — here's everything dropping today across Netflix, Prime Video, JioHotstar, SonyLiv, and more.
A young Indian-origin student from University of Chicago, Rithika Tudmilla, was part of a team that discovered the oldest star in the universe, SDSS J0715−7334. This star, formed over 10 billion years ago, has the lowest amount of heavy elements ever recorded. Undergraduate students, including Tudmilla, played a key role in identifying the star during an astronomy field course.
Pakistan's PM Sharif's post on social media titled "Draft - Pakistan's PM Message on X" caused controversy as it was revealed that the White House had reviewed and approved it. This sparked rumors that Trump was seeking an exit strategy for the Iran crisis. However, the White House denied Trump's involvement.
Swiggy's co-founder and Head of Innovation, Nandan Reddy, has resigned from his position to explore new opportunities. He expressed pride and confidence in the company's achievements and wished the team well. Rohit Kapoor will now lead Swiggy Crew, and new board members have been appointed. Reddy's contribution to the company was acknowledged by Group CEO Sriharsha Majety.
Ind-Ra predicts that the ceasefire in West Asia will ease supply-shock fears and lower chemical costs, but prices will stay high until supply chains normalize. The conflict has disrupted global supply chains, causing downstream industries to suffer. India imports 15-20% of its chemical needs from the region, and value chains heavily reliant on Middle East sourcing or gas-based feedstocks.