July 26, 2025
Protests Erupt Over Former US President's Golf Trip Amid Trade Talks and Policy Concerns
The visit of a former US president to Scotland, where he played golf at his family-owned courses, prompted protests across the country. Demonstrators criticized the UK government for accommodating the visit and recent trade agreements perceived as favorable to the US. Various activist groups formed a coalition to oppose the visit, citing concerns over immigration policies, international conflicts, and environmental issues. Protesters expressed strong disapproval through chants, signs, and symbolic attire, though the turnout was smaller than during a previous visit. Supporters of the former president organized counter-demonstrations via social media. The visit included planned meetings with UK and European Union officials to discuss trade, alongside ceremonial events at the golf courses. The situation highlights tensions between public dissent and diplomatic engagements during the visit.
July 26, 2025
India's Defence Policy Now Allows Armed Forces Immediate Response Without Central Approval Under New Rules
The statement highlights a significant shift in India's defence policy, emphasizing that armed forces no longer require prior approval from central command to respond to cross-border aggression, allowing immediate retaliatory action. It references a specific military operation as evidence of a proactive stance against terrorism linked to a neighboring country. The government asserts a firm approach toward terrorism and its supporters, including nuclear deterrence. Defence production and exports have increased, contrasting with previous shortages under the former administration. Infrastructure development near the border has also expanded substantially, improving military readiness. The remarks criticize past policies that limited border infrastructure development, arguing the current government has enhanced strategic capabilities and operational autonomy for the armed forces.
July 26, 2025
Head of Government Concludes Visit After Signing Six Key Cooperation Agreements and Extending Rs 4,850 Crore Credit
A state visit concluded with the departure of a head of government from an island nation after attending its 60th Independence Day celebrations as guest of honour. During the visit, extensive bilateral talks were held focusing on enhancing cooperation in trade, defence, and maritime security. The visiting country extended a line of credit worth approximately Rs 4,850 crore and agreed to finalize a free trade agreement. Six agreements were signed covering fisheries, meteorology, digital infrastructure, payment systems, pharmacopoeia, and concessional credit. The visit also included engagement with the local diaspora and beneficiaries of a technical and economic cooperation program, emphasizing strong bilateral ties. This visit followed a prior trade deal signed with another nation to eliminate tariffs on various goods.
July 26, 2025
MP alleges BJP states withhold migrant worker data, claim harassment and unlawful detention of Bengali migrants
A political party MP accused several BJP-governed states of withholding data on Bengali-speaking migrant workers and alleged harassment, unlawful detention, and deportation of these migrants, including claims of inadequate government records on migrant workers' status and deaths. The MP criticized the central and state governments for failing to maintain reliable migrant worker databases and for not sharing data with the home state government. The BJP leaders countered these allegations, asserting that only illegal immigrants from a neighboring country are targeted and that Indian citizens with valid documents are not harassed, accusing the opposing party of protecting illegal migrants for political gain.
July 26, 2025
Chief Minister's Six-Day Singapore Visit to Boost Investment, Jobs, Diaspora Engagement, and Poverty Reduction
The Chief Minister of an Indian state is undertaking a six-day official visit to Singapore to promote investment and engage with the diaspora community. The visit includes participation in a regional diaspora event involving business leaders and investors from multiple Southeast Asian countries. Key agenda items include discussions on employment generation for youth, strengthening diaspora contributions to state development, and launching a poverty alleviation initiative involving affluent community members. The delegation will also explore opportunities to boost state exports through collaborations with non-resident investors and focus on skill development to expand job prospects. Additionally, the team plans to inspect critical infrastructure and logistics facilities to support economic growth.
July 26, 2025
Delhi to Open 75 New CM Shri Schools with AI, Solar Power, and Smart Classrooms by September
The Delhi government plans to inaugurate newly announced CM Shri Schools in September, aiming to provide high-quality education aligned with the National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework 2023. Seventy-five schools have been provisionally shortlisted, with most still under construction. These schools will feature sustainable, zero-waste, solar-powered campuses equipped with AI-enabled libraries, smart classrooms using AR and VR, biometric attendance, and robotics labs. The Delhi Board of School Education is being phased out, with affiliated schools transitioning to the Central Board of Secondary Education. Recruitment for teaching and leadership roles is underway, requiring candidates to have at least five years of service left. The government allocated Rs 100 crore for this initiative in the recent budget.
July 26, 2025
New Logistics Policy Targets Freight Congestion, Lowers Costs, and Modernizes Supply Chain with EV Incentives
The Delhi government is developing a Logistics and Warehousing Policy aimed at reducing freight congestion, lowering logistics costs, and modernizing the city's supply chain infrastructure in line with the National Logistics Policy. The policy addresses infrastructure gaps, regulatory overlaps, and outdated freight systems by proposing dedicated warehousing hubs, integrated logistics parks, and Urban Consolidation and Logistics Distribution Centres on city outskirts. It seeks to enable round-the-clock logistics operations through amendments to existing laws and to streamline licensing by merging trade and establishment permits. Public-private partnerships will be used to create designated parking and loading areas supported by digital booking systems. The policy also promotes incentives for electric vehicles and clean technologies to reduce emissions. Stakeholder consultations have been conducted, and the draft will be opened for public and inter-departmental feedback before finalization.
July 26, 2025
Political party demands CBI probe and action under Prevention of Corruption Act in engineer's suicide case
A political party has demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged suicide of a public works department assistant engineer who reportedly faced pressure from senior officials to approve inflated bills related to a mini-stadium construction project. Following the engineer's death, several individuals, including an executive engineer, a sub-divisional officer, and a contractor, were arrested for alleged abetment of suicide. The party leader has urged the governor to initiate proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and called for an independent investigation into financial irregularities in multiple stadium projects under a state infrastructure scheme. The party also announced statewide protests demanding justice and compensation for the family, criticizing the state government for failing to provide a safe work environment, particularly for women employees.
July 26, 2025
Allegations of wrongful detention and deportation of Bengali migrants despite valid documents and verification
A political representative from West Bengal alleges that Bengali-speaking migrants are being wrongfully targeted, detained, and deported to Bangladesh in certain BJP-ruled states despite possessing valid identification and land documents. Despite verification by the West Bengal government confirming their citizenship, these individuals face harassment and forced deportation without cooperation from local authorities. Incidents include deportation of residents with longstanding land deeds and refusal by some states to accept presented evidence. The representative calls for proper verification procedures involving the West Bengal government before any action, emphasizing that genuine citizens should not be harassed while lawful measures against infiltrators are supported. The issue is being raised in Parliament, with concerns that such actions threaten social unity and violate rights of migrant workers. The West Bengal government opposes the ongoing Special Intensive Revision exercise, citing potential harm to Bengali-speaking populations.
July 26, 2025
Creative Arts School Partners with Fashion Council for Couture Event, Giving Students Real-World Experience
An educational institution specializing in creative arts partnered with a leading fashion council to feature a prominent designer duo at a major couture event. Over fifty students from the institution gained hands-on experience backstage, assisting with fittings, styling, and show operations, enhancing their practical skills in a live professional setting. This collaboration followed the students' recent participation in an international couture week, reflecting the institution's commitment to experiential learning and industry integration. The partnership underscored the institution's role as the sole academic participant at the event, highlighting its emphasis on preparing students for careers in the fashion industry through global exposure, innovative pedagogy, and strategic alliances with key industry players. The institution's accredited programs and extensive alumni network further support its position as a leader in design education and professional readiness.
July 26, 2025
Digital Talent Contest Expands to Hairstylists with New Sponsors and Online Finale Streaming
A digital talent competition in India has launched its third season, expanding its scope to include hairstylists alongside traditional contestants. The event features a panel of prominent industry figures and increased brand sponsorship, enhancing its profile within the fashion and beauty sectors. The competition culminates in a grand finale at a Mumbai venue, with plans for online streaming. Various commercial partners contribute to the event's production and promotion, reflecting its growing commercial and cultural significance. The organizers emphasize the platform's role in promoting youth talent and creativity in fashion and entertainment.
July 26, 2025
Financial Firm Rates Real Estate Company Buy with Target Price at 1x Projected NAV for FY26
A financial services firm initiated coverage on a real estate company operating in Punjab with a 'BUY' rating and a target price valuing the stock at 1x projected net asset value for FY26. The company holds a strong market position in Tier II cities, with a significant land bank and ongoing projects totaling approximately 14.8 million square feet. It employs advanced construction technology for faster execution and cost efficiency. Forecasts indicate a compound annual growth rate in pre-sales of 13% through FY30, a net cash surplus exceeding INR 2,000 crore between FY26 and FY32, and an improving debt-to-equity ratio. The company's diversified portfolio spans luxury and affordable housing, supported by strong demand and limited competition in the region. The recommendation is based on its strategic land holdings, experienced management, robust execution capabilities, healthy cash flows, and favorable market dynamics.
July 26, 2025
India-UK Trade Deal Removes Tariffs on Indian Seafood, Boosting Exports and Market Competitiveness
A recent trade agreement between India and the United Kingdom eliminates tariffs on Indian seafood exports, placing them on equal footing with competitors from Vietnam and Singapore, who benefit from existing UK free trade agreements. This removal of tariff barriers is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Indian marine products, particularly high-value items like shrimp and value-added seafood, in the UK market. The agreement aims to diversify Indian exporters' market reliance beyond traditional partners such as the US and China, potentially increasing marine exports to the UK by 70 percent. The Indian seafood sector has improved traceability and quality standards to capitalize on these new opportunities, aligning with national objectives to lead in sustainable marine trade. Despite India's current modest share of the UK seafood import market, the deal is anticipated to significantly boost its presence amid global supply chain restructuring.
July 26, 2025
International Music Project Unites Artists for Cross-Cultural Concerts Blending Traditional and Classical Styles
An international cultural initiative has facilitated musical collaboration between artists from two countries, promoting cross-cultural exchange through joint concerts blending traditional and classical music styles. The project, supported by cultural organizations and involving prominent musicians including a distinguished soprano trained in Europe, has received acclaim from global media and cultural institutions for fostering artistic dialogue and mutual respect. Upcoming concerts in both nations aim to deepen artistic partnerships and celebrate shared human experiences through music. The initiative emphasizes unity, cultural harmony, and the bridging of diverse traditions, setting a model for international cultural cooperation.
July 26, 2025
Foreign leader attends independence event, boosting ties; travel warnings amid border clashes; new trade deal proposed
A foreign leader participated as the guest of honor in a neighboring country's independence celebrations, emphasizing the commitment to strengthen bilateral relations and support capacity building. The host nation's president highlighted a deep, enduring partnership extending beyond diplomacy. Concurrently, travel advisories were issued for citizens in a Southeast Asian country amid ongoing border clashes with a neighboring state, resulting in significant displacement and casualties. Additionally, a proposed trade agreement between two major economies is anticipated to enhance investment attractiveness and economic liberalization. In a conflict zone, military strikes have caused numerous civilian deaths amid stalled ceasefire negotiations and humanitarian crises.
July 26, 2025
Opposition cites CAG data showing worsening state finances and slow revenue growth in Q1 2025-26 fiscal year
An opposition leader in a southern Indian state cited recent Comptroller and Auditor General data to assert that the state's financial condition deteriorated in the first quarter of the 2025-26 fiscal year. The data reportedly indicate a precarious financial outlook, with subdued growth in government revenue streams, including tax and non-tax revenues, and lower consumption-related revenues such as GST and sales tax compared to the previous year. The leader attributed the fiscal stress to factors including the state's bifurcation and alleged widespread corruption affecting economic performance. The state's revenue growth was minimal, and reliance on external transfers to meet expenditures increased. No official response was provided by the ruling party.
July 26, 2025
State Launches Rs 1,600 Crore World Bank Project to Boost Indigenous Welfare and Development
The state government is implementing initiatives to promote the welfare and development of indigenous communities, which constitute nearly one-third of the population. A significant World Bank-funded project worth Rs 1,600 crore has been approved for indigenous development, supported by the central finance ministry. The state has allocated Rs 860 crore to the autonomous tribal council for the fiscal year 2025-26, with additional funds of Rs 179.82 crore earmarked for comprehensive tribal area development. The government also allocates Rs 6,000 crore under a tribal sub-plan. Efforts include preserving tribal culture and recognizing tribal leaders with national honors. A national program has been launched to further benefit tribal communities, reflecting the central government's commitment to their welfare and cultural recognition.
July 26, 2025
State to finalize new industrial policy by November with sector-specific committees under Rule 12 guidance
The state government will finalize a new industrial policy by November, following consultations with industry experts. Six sector-specific committees have been formed, each chaired by an industry representative, to develop tailored policy recommendations for sectors including sports and leather goods, machinery, food processing, tourism, heavy machinery, and furniture. These committees are tasked with analyzing existing policies from other states to propose a customized framework that aligns with the state's industrial ecosystem and fiscal context. Recommendations must be submitted by October 1. Committee membership will be diverse in size, scale, and geography to ensure comprehensive input, with the government retaining discretion to add members. The initiative aims to enhance ease of doing business and foster sector-specific industrial growth.
July 26, 2025
Battery firm boosts growth with Rs 3,700 crore lithium-ion investment, Industry 4.0, and sustainability drive
A battery manufacturing company announced its strategic focus on both lead-acid and lithium-ion battery segments to drive future growth. The company plans to start commercial production at its lithium-ion cell facility within the current financial year, supported by government incentives and reduced import duties. It reported significant investments in lithium-ion technology totaling over Rs 3,700 crore and highlighted double-digit growth in several business segments despite challenges in exports and telecom battery sales. Operational improvements include adoption of Industry 4.0 and AI tools, new battery technologies, and sustainability initiatives such as recycled lead usage and renewable energy consumption. The company posted a consolidated profit increase for the fiscal year 2024-25 and emphasized its preparedness to meet evolving energy demands through innovation and a dual-technology approach.
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