
US-India Defence Ties Strengthen Amid Transition to Trump Administration
The defence relationship between the United States and India is rapidly growing, with key developments marking an exciting period of collaboration between the two nations. Ely Ratner, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, emphasized that the US-India defence ties are progressing in significant ways, particularly in defence industrial cooperation and operational collaboration across the military services. This partnership continues to expand even as the India-China
US-India Defence Ties Strengthen Amid Transition to Trump Administration
The defence relationship between the United States and India is rapidly growing, with key developments marking an exciting period of collaboration between the two nations. Ely Ratner, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, emphasized that the US-India defence ties are progressing in significant ways, particularly in defence industrial cooperation and operational collaboration across the military services. This partnership continues to expand even as the India-China

Smriti Mandhana Breaks Record, India Wins T20I Series 2-1 Against West Indies
India's stand-in captain, Smriti Mandhana, made history with her brilliant performance against the West Indies at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Mandhana scored a match-winning 77 runs off 47 balls, marking her 30th fifty in T20 internationals. This remarkable achievement broke the long-standing record held by New Zealand’s Suzie Bates, who had scored 29 fifties. Mandhana’s milesto
Smriti Mandhana Breaks Record, India Wins T20I Series 2-1 Against West Indies
India's stand-in captain, Smriti Mandhana, made history with her brilliant performance against the West Indies at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Mandhana scored a match-winning 77 runs off 47 balls, marking her 30th fifty in T20 internationals. This remarkable achievement broke the long-standing record held by New Zealand’s Suzie Bates, who had scored 29 fifties. Mandhana’s milesto

Rajan Blames UPA Corruption for Bank NPAs, Praises Modi Cleanup
Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has linked corruption under the UPA government as the primary cause of non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banks. In a recent interview, Rajan explained that following the global financial crisis, several projects began facing severe delays due to corruption scandals, land acquisition issues, and other regulatory obstacles. These factors, he argued, significantly contributed to the rise of NPAs. Rajan praised the
Rajan Blames UPA Corruption for Bank NPAs, Praises Modi Cleanup
Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has linked corruption under the UPA government as the primary cause of non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banks. In a recent interview, Rajan explained that following the global financial crisis, several projects began facing severe delays due to corruption scandals, land acquisition issues, and other regulatory obstacles. These factors, he argued, significantly contributed to the rise of NPAs. Rajan praised the

Google Cuts 10% of Managerial Staff Amid Efficiency Push and AI Competition
In a move to improve efficiency, Google has reduced its managerial staff by 10%, including roles at the manager, director, and vice president levels. This decision is part of a broader initiative to streamline the company and address increasing competition from AI-driven companies like OpenAI. CEO Sundar Pichai discussed these cuts during an all-hands meeting, stating that some employees would be reassigned to individual contributor roles, while others would face position eliminations.
Google Cuts 10% of Managerial Staff Amid Efficiency Push and AI Competition
In a move to improve efficiency, Google has reduced its managerial staff by 10%, including roles at the manager, director, and vice president levels. This decision is part of a broader initiative to streamline the company and address increasing competition from AI-driven companies like OpenAI. CEO Sundar Pichai discussed these cuts during an all-hands meeting, stating that some employees would be reassigned to individual contributor roles, while others would face position eliminations.

Veteran INLD Leader Om Prakash Chautala Dies at 89
Om Prakash Chautala, a five-time Chief Minister of Haryana and a prominent figure in Indian politics, has passed away at 89 following a cardiac arrest at his residence in Gurgaon. Born on January 1, 1935, in Sirsa, Haryana, Chautala’s political career spanned several decades. He first became Chief Minister in 1989, but his tenure was marked by short stints due to political instability. His third term in 1991 was also brief, as President's rule was imposed within two weeks. However,
Veteran INLD Leader Om Prakash Chautala Dies at 89
Om Prakash Chautala, a five-time Chief Minister of Haryana and a prominent figure in Indian politics, has passed away at 89 following a cardiac arrest at his residence in Gurgaon. Born on January 1, 1935, in Sirsa, Haryana, Chautala’s political career spanned several decades. He first became Chief Minister in 1989, but his tenure was marked by short stints due to political instability. His third term in 1991 was also brief, as President's rule was imposed within two weeks. However,

Is One Cup of Tea Harmful to Your Health?
For many, a cup of tea is an essential part of the morning routine, offering comfort and warmth. But concerns about the caffeine in tea and its potential health risks have led some to wonder if even a single cup can be harmful. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), both tea and coffee contain caffeine, which can lead to dependency if consumed in excess. The recommended daily caffeine limit is 300 milligrams, which equates to about two cups of tea. Drinking one
Is One Cup of Tea Harmful to Your Health?
For many, a cup of tea is an essential part of the morning routine, offering comfort and warmth. But concerns about the caffeine in tea and its potential health risks have led some to wonder if even a single cup can be harmful. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), both tea and coffee contain caffeine, which can lead to dependency if consumed in excess. The recommended daily caffeine limit is 300 milligrams, which equates to about two cups of tea. Drinking one

Mohan Bhagwat Stresses Harmony and Concerns Over Temple-Mosque Disputes
In a recent lecture on ‘India – The Vishwaguru' in Pune, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat expressed concern over the resurgence of temple-mosque disputes, stating that certain individuals seem to believe they can become "leaders of Hindus" by stirring such controversies. Bhagwat emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive society and stressed that India should set an example for the world in living together harmoniously. He pointed out the country's long-standing
Mohan Bhagwat Stresses Harmony and Concerns Over Temple-Mosque Disputes
In a recent lecture on ‘India – The Vishwaguru' in Pune, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat expressed concern over the resurgence of temple-mosque disputes, stating that certain individuals seem to believe they can become "leaders of Hindus" by stirring such controversies. Bhagwat emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive society and stressed that India should set an example for the world in living together harmoniously. He pointed out the country's long-standing

Gas Tanker Collision on Jaipur-Ajmer Highway Kills 8 and Causes Huge Fire
On Friday morning, a devastating collision between a gas tanker and multiple vehicles on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway resulted in a massive fire, claiming at least eight lives. CCTV footage captured the horrifying moments as thick black smoke filled the street, followed by an explosion minutes after the crash. The inferno caused by the collision affected a nearly 300-meter stretch of the highway, causing traffic disruptions with a long line of vehicles stuck in the aftermath. More than 30 vehicle
Gas Tanker Collision on Jaipur-Ajmer Highway Kills 8 and Causes Huge Fire
On Friday morning, a devastating collision between a gas tanker and multiple vehicles on the Jaipur-Ajmer highway resulted in a massive fire, claiming at least eight lives. CCTV footage captured the horrifying moments as thick black smoke filled the street, followed by an explosion minutes after the crash. The inferno caused by the collision affected a nearly 300-meter stretch of the highway, causing traffic disruptions with a long line of vehicles stuck in the aftermath. More than 30 vehicle

Tata Consumer Denies Reports of Starbucks Exiting India
Tata Consumer Products Ltd (TCPL) has officially rejected recent reports claiming that Starbucks is planning to exit the Indian market, calling the rumors "baseless." These reports suggested that the American coffee giant might leave India due to high operating costs, mounting losses, and the growing competition from local, cheaper alternatives. However, TCPL, which operates Starbucks in India
Tata Consumer Denies Reports of Starbucks Exiting India
Tata Consumer Products Ltd (TCPL) has officially rejected recent reports claiming that Starbucks is planning to exit the Indian market, calling the rumors "baseless." These reports suggested that the American coffee giant might leave India due to high operating costs, mounting losses, and the growing competition from local, cheaper alternatives. However, TCPL, which operates Starbucks in India

Pakistan's Failed Attempt to Coerce China Over Gwadar Port
Pakistan, a country grappling with terrorism, political instability, and economic challenges, has once again found itself in a precarious diplomatic situation with its long-time ally, China. The latest controversy centers around Pakistan's attempt to negotiate over the use of Gwadar port in Balochistan, which is part of the ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). During a high-level meeting, Pakistan reportedly demanded that China provide a second-strike nuclear capability in e
Pakistan's Failed Attempt to Coerce China Over Gwadar Port
Pakistan, a country grappling with terrorism, political instability, and economic challenges, has once again found itself in a precarious diplomatic situation with its long-time ally, China. The latest controversy centers around Pakistan's attempt to negotiate over the use of Gwadar port in Balochistan, which is part of the ambitious China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). During a high-level meeting, Pakistan reportedly demanded that China provide a second-strike nuclear capability in e

Impact of New GST Slab Proposal on Sin Products and India's Economy
India introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 to simplify the tax structure and reduce the tax burden. Recent data shows that the gross GST collection for October 2024 rose by 9% to ₹1.87 lakh crore, a record second-highest figure. However, a recent proposal by the Group of Ministers (GoM) on GST Rates Rationalisation suggests a new 35% GST slab on products like aerated drinks and tobacco, which has raised concerns. The proposal aims to target 'sin' products such as thos
Impact of New GST Slab Proposal on Sin Products and India's Economy
India introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 to simplify the tax structure and reduce the tax burden. Recent data shows that the gross GST collection for October 2024 rose by 9% to ₹1.87 lakh crore, a record second-highest figure. However, a recent proposal by the Group of Ministers (GoM) on GST Rates Rationalisation suggests a new 35% GST slab on products like aerated drinks and tobacco, which has raised concerns. The proposal aims to target 'sin' products such as thos

Google Maps Helps Solve Murder Mystery in Spain
Google Maps played an unexpected role in solving a year-long murder mystery in Spain. The investigation began in November 2023 after a man went missing in the northern region of Castile and Leon. Authorities arrested two suspects: a woman, the missing man’s partner, and her ex-partner. During their investigation, police raided homes and inspected vehicles but stumbled upon a key lead through "images in a location application." These images, taken from Google Maps'
Google Maps Helps Solve Murder Mystery in Spain
Google Maps played an unexpected role in solving a year-long murder mystery in Spain. The investigation began in November 2023 after a man went missing in the northern region of Castile and Leon. Authorities arrested two suspects: a woman, the missing man’s partner, and her ex-partner. During their investigation, police raided homes and inspected vehicles but stumbled upon a key lead through "images in a location application." These images, taken from Google Maps'

Court Rules Man Doesn't Have to Return ₹3.2 Crore Gift from Ex-Girlfriend
A Chinese court has ruled that Li, a man involved in a complicated breakup, is not required to return a 300,000 Yuan (₹3.2 crore) gift given to him by his ex-girlfriend, Xu. The unusual legal case, which has gained significant attention, centers on the couple's tumultuous relationship. Li and Xu had been in a stable relationship since 2018 until 2020, when Li discovered that Xu had an affair with his nephew. The revelation led to a breakup, but Xu later transferred a large sum of money
Court Rules Man Doesn't Have to Return ₹3.2 Crore Gift from Ex-Girlfriend
A Chinese court has ruled that Li, a man involved in a complicated breakup, is not required to return a 300,000 Yuan (₹3.2 crore) gift given to him by his ex-girlfriend, Xu. The unusual legal case, which has gained significant attention, centers on the couple's tumultuous relationship. Li and Xu had been in a stable relationship since 2018 until 2020, when Li discovered that Xu had an affair with his nephew. The revelation led to a breakup, but Xu later transferred a large sum of money

Alcohol-Cancer Warning + Drink Tracking Reduces Consumption
A recent study led by Professor Simone Pettigrew from The George Institute for Global Health has found an effective method to reduce alcohol consumption. The study combined a warning about the cancer risks associated with alcohol with a practical action—tracking the number of drinks consumed. The findings show that this combination helped participants significantly cut down on their alcohol intake. This approach offers a straightforward and actionable strategy for promoting better healt
Alcohol-Cancer Warning + Drink Tracking Reduces Consumption
A recent study led by Professor Simone Pettigrew from The George Institute for Global Health has found an effective method to reduce alcohol consumption. The study combined a warning about the cancer risks associated with alcohol with a practical action—tracking the number of drinks consumed. The findings show that this combination helped participants significantly cut down on their alcohol intake. This approach offers a straightforward and actionable strategy for promoting better healt

Samsung Galaxy S25 to Feature Faster Charging and AI Enhancements
Samsung is set to unveil its much-awaited Galaxy S25 series, which includes the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, at its 'Unpacked' event on January 22, 2025. Leaks suggest that these phones will feature Qi2 wireless charging using extended power profile (EPP) technology, enabling faster 25W charging. Unlike previous models that used 'MagSafe' technology with magnets, the S25 series will adopt a more efficient charging method without the magnet-based attachment system.
Samsung Galaxy S25 to Feature Faster Charging and AI Enhancements
Samsung is set to unveil its much-awaited Galaxy S25 series, which includes the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, at its 'Unpacked' event on January 22, 2025. Leaks suggest that these phones will feature Qi2 wireless charging using extended power profile (EPP) technology, enabling faster 25W charging. Unlike previous models that used 'MagSafe' technology with magnets, the S25 series will adopt a more efficient charging method without the magnet-based attachment system.

India and Pakistan to Play ICC Matches at Neutral Venues
India and Pakistan have reached an agreement to play their upcoming ICC tournament matches at neutral venues, following a dispute over the 2025 ICC Men's Champions Trophy, which was originally set to be hosted by Pakistan. The decision was made after India refused to send its team to Pakistan, citing security concerns and political tensions between the two countries. The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that matches involving both nations during the 2024-2027 cycle will take
India and Pakistan to Play ICC Matches at Neutral Venues
India and Pakistan have reached an agreement to play their upcoming ICC tournament matches at neutral venues, following a dispute over the 2025 ICC Men's Champions Trophy, which was originally set to be hosted by Pakistan. The decision was made after India refused to send its team to Pakistan, citing security concerns and political tensions between the two countries. The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that matches involving both nations during the 2024-2027 cycle will take

BCCI Appoints Achal Kumar Jyoti as Electoral Officer for Elections
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has called an urgent meeting of its Apex Council to appoint former Chief Election Commissioner Achal Kumar Jyoti as the electoral officer for upcoming elections to fill the positions of secretary and treasurer. These posts were vacated by Jay Shah and Ashish Shelar, who assumed new roles in December. According to the BCCI constitution, the Board must call a Special General Meeting and appoint an electoral officer at least four weeks before the
BCCI Appoints Achal Kumar Jyoti as Electoral Officer for Elections
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has called an urgent meeting of its Apex Council to appoint former Chief Election Commissioner Achal Kumar Jyoti as the electoral officer for upcoming elections to fill the positions of secretary and treasurer. These posts were vacated by Jay Shah and Ashish Shelar, who assumed new roles in December. According to the BCCI constitution, the Board must call a Special General Meeting and appoint an electoral officer at least four weeks before the

Government Blocks 18 OTT Platforms for Obscene Content
On Wednesday, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, L Murugan, informed the Lok Sabha that the government had blocked 18 OTT platforms this year for publishing obscene, vulgar, and in some cases, pornographic content. This action is in line with the IT Rules of 2021, which impose specific due diligence obligations on intermediaries to ensure they take reasonable steps to prevent the spread of such content. The IT Rules also set out a Code of Ethics for publishers
Government Blocks 18 OTT Platforms for Obscene Content
On Wednesday, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, L Murugan, informed the Lok Sabha that the government had blocked 18 OTT platforms this year for publishing obscene, vulgar, and in some cases, pornographic content. This action is in line with the IT Rules of 2021, which impose specific due diligence obligations on intermediaries to ensure they take reasonable steps to prevent the spread of such content. The IT Rules also set out a Code of Ethics for publishers

OpenAI Brings ChatGPT to WhatsApp for US and Canada Users
OpenAI has introduced a new feature that allows users in the US and Canada to interact with ChatGPT directly through WhatsApp. By calling the number 1800-242-8478, users can now access the AI chatbot through voice calls, with 15 minutes of free voice calling available per month. This new feature is compatible with flip phones and landlines, making it accessible to a wider audience. OpenAI is testing this functionality as part of an experimental phase, and the availability of voice calling, as
OpenAI Brings ChatGPT to WhatsApp for US and Canada Users
OpenAI has introduced a new feature that allows users in the US and Canada to interact with ChatGPT directly through WhatsApp. By calling the number 1800-242-8478, users can now access the AI chatbot through voice calls, with 15 minutes of free voice calling available per month. This new feature is compatible with flip phones and landlines, making it accessible to a wider audience. OpenAI is testing this functionality as part of an experimental phase, and the availability of voice calling, as

Infosys Opens New Development Centre in Kolkata
Infosys Ltd. has launched its new state-of-the-art development centre in Kolkata, West Bengal, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion and commitment to innovation in the region. The 320,000 sq. ft. facility, built with an investment of over Rs 426 crore, will host over 4,000 employees who will work on cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation. This centre will cater to a variety of industries, including
Infosys Opens New Development Centre in Kolkata
Infosys Ltd. has launched its new state-of-the-art development centre in Kolkata, West Bengal, marking a significant milestone in the company's expansion and commitment to innovation in the region. The 320,000 sq. ft. facility, built with an investment of over Rs 426 crore, will host over 4,000 employees who will work on cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation. This centre will cater to a variety of industries, including