Silicon Valley loves a “college dropout becomes billionaire” story. But the rise of Surya Midha, Adarsh Hiremath, and Brendan Foody is unlike anything we’ve seen before. Their company, Mercor, is now worth $10 billion, according to Forbes, making 22-year-olds Midha and Hiremath the youngest self-made billionaires in the world.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta raised the income limit for ration cards to Rs 2.5 lakh, aiming to provide subsidised food benefits to more families. An audit led to the cancellation of 7.72 lakh ration cards, including those of ineligible and deceased beneficiaries. New online applications are now being accepted after a temporary halt.
US authorities stopped an Air France flight from landing in Detroit after a passenger mistakenly boarded from Congo, violating Ebola-related travel rules. The flight was redirected to a Canadian airport. The US government announced stricter screening and restrictions for three African countries affected by the outbreak. The CDC assured that the risk to the US public is low.
The West Bengal government has issued a circular restricting government employees and officers from speaking to the media without prior permission. The directive prohibits participation in media programmes, sharing of documents or information, and criticism of government policies.
The NTA has opened the fee refund portal for NEET UG 2026 re-examination, which will take place on June 21. Candidates who took the cancelled May 3 exam can submit their bank account details to receive a refund. No new application or fee is required. The NTA has also provided clarifications regarding the re-exam.
East Coast Railway has regularized a special train between Bhanjpur and Puri due to high demand from pilgrims and daily passengers. The train will now run with two train numbers and provide smoother connectivity to important stations in Odisha. The new service aims to reduce waiting time and improve regional connectivity, benefitting a large number of passengers.
Indian MP Milind Deora commends the country's progressive tax system, which exempts lower-income citizens from paying income tax. This comes after Jeff Bezos proposed eliminating federal income tax for the bottom half of earners in the US, highlighting the vast disparity in taxes paid by the top 1% and bottom 50%. Deora sees India's rebate-based tax structure as a successful model.
Repolling took place in West Bengal's 144-Falta Assembly constituency after the April 29 vote was cancelled due to electoral misconduct. The Election Commission reported a 60.43% voter turnout with no violence. Central forces and Quick Response Teams were deployed for security.
Delhi Airport has issued a health advisory for travellers from countries affected by Ebola, asking them to report any symptoms or possible exposure. The advisory has been issued by the Union Health Ministry and applies to travellers from DR Congo, South Sudan, and Uganda. The Centre assures that there is no reason to panic, but precautionary measures have been increased.
Elon Musk, the world's richest man, has a meager salary of $54,080 a year and receives no conventional salary from Tesla. His massive wealth comes from owning and stock options in his companies, with SpaceX alone potentially being valued at over $1.75 trillion. His pay packages are tied to ambitious performance goals, with his stake in SpaceX worth over $600 billion.
Abhijeet Dipke, a 30-year-old political communication strategist, founded the 'Cockroach Janata Party' as a viral online political movement. With a background in journalism and public relations, and previous work with AAP's social media team, Dipke has gained a strong online following.
Central Railway introduces additional special trains to help passengers travel comfortably between Bengaluru and Mumbai, and between Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh during the intense summer heat wave. The new services include a special train between SMVB Bengaluru and Mumbai’s Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, and a weekly special train connecting Panvel and Subedarganj railway station.
BSE, India's oldest stock exchange, is seeing a surge in its share price and gaining attention for its potential inclusion in the Nifty 50 index. With explosive growth in derivatives trading, record profits, and improved efficiency, it has become one of the biggest wealth creators in the financial sector. A brokerage report predicts BSE may replace Wipro in the Nifty 50 soon.
Nuvama gives Bharat Electronics a 'Buy' rating with a target price of Rs 485, predicting a 17% increase. The company has a strong presence in India's defence sector, with high margins and a large order backlog. It exceeded expectations in the March quarter, despite rising expenses. Nuvama forecasts a 14% EPS CAGR and considers the stock to be undervalued.
PM Modi to chair meeting with Council of Ministers to review performance and priorities, address economic challenges, and discuss Union Cabinet reshuffle. Meeting coincides with government's two-year mark and BJP's internal changes under new national president. Focus on governance issues, fuel prices, upcoming Rajya Sabha elections, and potential ministerial promotions.
The two-wheeler industry saw a 29.2% increase in wholesale growth in April 2026, reaching 1.9 million units. This was due to GST reforms, improved affordability, and rural demand. However, growth is expected to moderate to 3-5% in FY27 due to a high base, weather risks, and rising prices. Electric two-wheelers and exports also saw strong growth.
Tamil Nadu's TVK administration, after a week of being in power, expanded its coalition by inducting 23 new ministers, including leaders from partner parties. This decision marks a move towards a more stable alliance, rather than relying on AIADMK rebels.
In 2021, Divyanshu Damani, co-founder of TagMango, and Abhinav Agarwal, a senior member of team, reached out to Ankur Warikoo, one of India's most-followed internet entrepreneurs and the founder of WebVeda. They wanted him on their platform.
Google is facing competition from OpenAI in the race to be the go-to source for online information. With the emergence of AI platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity, and the changing preferences of younger users, Google is incorporating AI into all its platforms to stay ahead. The future of online discovery and the economics of the web will be influenced by this move.
LaGuardia Airport in New York experienced a sinkhole on Runway 4/22 during a routine morning inspection on May 20, causing flight delays and cancellations. The airport is working on repairs and the runway is expected to be closed until 10 am Thursday. This comes after recent weather disruptions and a strike on the Long Island Rail Road, prompting advisories for travelers.
Delhi-NCR taxi and auto drivers are on a 3-day strike starting May 21, demanding a fare hike due to increasing fuel costs and exploitation by app-based cab companies. The strike is part of a nationwide protest supported by the All India Motor Transport Congress, highlighting the drivers' frustration over unchanged fares for 15 years. Authorities have been warned of escalating actions.
The FBI has shut down a major India-linked call centre fraud operation that allegedly defrauded hundreds of elderly victims in the United States and other countries of millions of dollars through fake tech support scams.
BPCL has adapted to disruptions in West Asian oil supply by increasing spot crude purchases and diversifying sourcing. They have also procured US LPG cargoes and plan to add 1,000 fuel stations by FY27. Despite challenges, their gross refining margin for FY26 was $11.74 per barrel.
Indian refiners are turning to Russian crude oil as a cost-effective alternative due to disruptions in West Asia. This is due to a decrease in Russian crude premiums and a rise in West Asian procurement costs. The United States has extended a waiver allowing Russian oil to continue reaching buyers despite sanctions, providing crucial relief for Indian refiners.
NCDEX launched India's first Sebi-approved exchange-traded weather derivatives contract, 'RAINMUMBAI', for trading rainfall risks in Mumbai. The contract will be available from June 1 to September 30 and cater to sectors like agriculture, power, logistics, and more.
At the Goafest 2026, Prasoon Joshi stressed the need for India to invest in innovation, incubation, and original ideas, and emphasized collaboration between media, corporates, government, and creators. Rajiv Kumar stated that private entrepreneurs will drive India's growth, with government support.
India's power demand has hit a record high of 265.44 GW due to scorching heatwaves in north and central regions. Thermal power remains the main source, but managing peak demand during evening hours is a concern. Experts recommend fast-tracking battery storage and pumped hydro projects, maintaining coal stocks, and expanding time-of-use tariffs.
Indian Railways has launched a special train between Visakhapatnam and New Delhi to meet the high demand during summer. The train will run on May 22 and 26, stopping at major stations and improving connectivity between big cities and smaller towns. This will provide passengers with more travel options and easier ticket booking.
Delhi's public transport system is getting a major boost with an ₹18,000 crore metro expansion plan. This will improve daily travel for a large number of people, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance connectivity across the city. A new ₹6,200 crore metro line between Kirti Nagar and Palam is also in the works.
South Central Railway has extended one-way special train services between Hazur Sahib Nanded–Tirupati and Tirupati–Jalna to ease travel and reduce crowding. The trains will run on specific dates and pass through key stations in Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. This move will improve connectivity and provide a big relief for passengers, especially during busy periods when demand is high.
The PFRDA is in talks with the government to raise the guaranteed pension in the Atal Pension Yojana, currently at Rs 5,000 per month. The subscriber base is projected to reach 100 million by FY27, with efforts to educate young people. Concerns were raised about most subscribers receiving the minimum pension of Rs 1,000 and the importance of improved counselling during enrolment.
India's Balance of Payments (BoP) for FY27 is expected to have a deficit for the third consecutive year. To address this, the government is considering dollar mobilization schemes for the Indian diaspora. In the past, schemes like Resurgent India Bonds (RIB) in 1998, India Millennium Deposits (IMD) in 2000, and FCNR (B) in 2013 have been successful in raising foreign currency.
The CRS has revealed that the ongoing war in Iran has resulted in the destruction or damage of 42 US military aircraft, costing the Pentagon an estimated $29 billion. While the US has not released an official assessment of combat losses, Iran sees this as a confirmation of its military strength. The conflict also raises concerns about the sustainability.
Google introduced new AI-driven features at their annual event, I/O. These include AI Mode in Search, advanced Gemini functions, and conversational interfaces for research and task completion. The goal is to minimize steps and use AI to complete tasks, like finding deals and filling forms.
Indian rupee hits record low of 96.79 against the US dollar due to uncertainty over West Asia war. Oil prices and US Treasury yields rising, putting pressure on the currency. Rupee has weakened 6.4% since the outbreak of war, with expectations of further rate hikes. RBI steps in aggressively to support the currency, but may resort to a rate hike in June to control imported inflation.
Rahul Gandhi accuses PM Modi of selling off India's economy to Ambani, Adani, and America while taking foreign trips amidst inflation and fuel price hikes. He warns of an upcoming economic storm and reflects on the teachings of Veera Passi and Dr BR Ambedkar, urging for the protection of the Constitution. HSBC reports that fuel price hikes may help India cover $30 billion in FX reserves.
India is experiencing a dangerous heatwave with temperatures reaching 45 degrees Celsius. Multiple states have been issued red and orange alerts by the India Meteorological Department, warning citizens to protect themselves from dehydration and heat-related illnesses. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has released a public health advisory.
The race for the final playoff spot in IPL 2026 is heating up, with Kolkata Knight Riders needing two wins to secure a maximum of 15 points. They also need specific teams to lose their remaining matches, including Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, Chennai Super Kings, and Delhi Capitals. If all goes well, KKR can secure a spot in the playoffs without any tiebreakers.
Tesla's supposed cancellation of plans for an EV factory in India was proven false by the Indian Ministry of Heavy Industries. Although the minister previously mentioned the company's disinterest, Tesla has since opened showrooms and planned a $3 billion investment. However, challenges such as tariffs and trade may have caused delays.
India's renewable energy sector is set to receive a significant investment of $110-120 billion to reach its goal of 500 GW non-fossil-based energy capacity by 2030. Solar and wind energy make up the majority of the current installed capacity, with 94 GW of solar and 26 GW of wind energy under construction.
Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's party downplays concerns about AIADMK alliance, welcomes other parties to join coalition government. Congress likely to be part of the government, while other allies offer outside support. TVK emerged as largest party in recent elections, sparking negotiations. Vijay's alliance partners unite to safeguard democracy, criticize AIADMK's BJP alliance for election loss.
The Kerala government has scrapped the SilverLine semi-high-speed rail project due to issues with land acquisition and environmental impact. The project faced opposition and criticism, with even the former Delhi Metro chief questioning its execution. The government has decided to withdraw all land acquisition notifications and criminal cases.
Indian-origin tech veteran S "Soma" Somasegar passed away unexpectedly, leaving a profound impact on the Silicon Valley community. He was a beloved leader at Microsoft and Madrona, known for his generosity and commitment to empowering developers. His colleagues and friends, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Donald Trump's AI advisor Sriram Krishnan, paid tribute to him.
Wednesday morning was full of uncertainty for thousands of Meta employees. People across North America were told to work from home as layoff emails started going out from around 4 am PT. By the end of the day, around 8,000 employees, nearly 10% of Meta’s global workforce, had lost their jobs.
The new Belagavi-Secunderabad Weekly Express was launched on May 19, providing regular connectivity between the two states. The train will run on fixed days and depart from Belagavi at 1:00 pm, arriving at Secunderabad at 7:15 am the next day. It will stop at multiple stations and offer a direct travel option, saving time and money for passengers.
Motilal Oswal reiterated its Buy rating on Titan Company, expecting it to manage the current situation well and benefit from the ongoing shift from unorganised to organised jewellery players. The company's strategic international expansion through Damas and robust performance of CaratLane are also contributing to its growth.
The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre and other authorities on a petition seeking a nationwide ban on the sale of alcohol in tetra packs and sachets. The petitioner argues that such packaging makes it easier to distribute and contribute to alcohol abuse. This comes after the court refused to entertain a similar plea in Uttar Pradesh.
The Iran conflict, now dragging on for months, is at a critical point as President Donald Trump insists the war could end “very quickly” if a deal is reached. Speaking at a White House congressional event, he said Iran is eager for an agreement and suggested that military action is still on the table if talks collapse.
East Coast Railway has launched a new special train service between Virangana Lakshmibai Jhansi and Khurda Road Junction to ease travel pressure and provide better connectivity for passengers travelling between Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. The train will operate from May 22 to May 26 from Jhansi to Khurda Road and from May 24 to May 28 from Khurda Road to Jhansi.
Vodafone Idea's stock price has surged by 43% in the last month, driven by strong Q4 results, which included a significant reduction in AGR dues and a first quarterly profit in six years. While some brokerages have downgraded the stock and expressed concerns about management's ambitious goals, others have raised the target price, but caution that more needs to be done for sustained growth.
The Indian rupee is facing record lows against the dollar, reaching 97/$, as peace talks between the US and Iran stall and US Treasury yields rise. Inflation concerns and geopolitical tensions are driving this decline, which is impacting the stock market and creating a large balance of payments deficit. The government has already raised fuel prices twice in a week and more increases are expected.