The Samajwadi Party has criticized Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Sambhal, calling it a "photo opportunity" and a "mere formality." The party also pointed out that Congress didn't bring up the Sambhal issue in Parliament. Gandhi’s visit was interrupted at the Delhi-UP border because of traffic problems and concerns about maintaining law and order.
Suzlon Energy Limited has secured a 302.4 MW wind power project with Jindal Renewables in Karnataka. This expands their partnership to a total of 702.4 MW. The project will supply energy for steel plants in Chhattisgarh and Odisha, supporting sustainability goals. Suzlon’s total order book now includes 56% from commercial and industrial customers. The project is aligned with India’s renewable energy targets for 2030.
A seven-month-old dead foetus was mistakenly sent to Lucknow airport instead of being transported by road to Mumbai, causing confusion. News outlets initially reported it as an infant's body. Police later clarified that the foetus was part of an IVF case and was being sent for testing. The error was blamed on the courier company, and no criminal charges were filed.
The OECD is pushing for changes to make pension systems more inclusive and resilient. Its "Pensions Outlook 2024" report highlights the growth of pension funds, stresses the need for smart investment choices, and urges action to fill coverage gaps, especially for self-employed workers. The report also calls for flexible solutions, better financial education, and easier access to retirement income, with a focus on clear regulations and consumer protections.
Bihar is becoming an important place for food processing investments. At a recent event in Patna, Union Minister Chirag Paswan talked about the state's growing potential and improvements in infrastructure. In 2023, Bihar signed agreements worth ₹50,500 crore, with food processing being a major focus. The state's business events have brought in big investments and strong industry participation.
Domestic airlines are expected to report a net loss of ₹2,000-3,000 crore in FY2025 and FY2026 due to a weak rupee and higher costs from grounded aircraft. However, the losses should be lower than in previous years, thanks to stronger pricing, healthy traffic growth, and cost reductions. Domestic air traffic is expected to grow by 7-10%, while international traffic is projected to rise by 15-20%.
Congress faced pressure from both inside and outside the party, forcing a change in its stance on the Adani issue during the winter session of Parliament. Protests over the Adani controversy stalled proceedings for six days, but Congress eventually allowed Parliament to function after criticism from opposition allies and its own MPs. The party realized that focusing only on the Adani issue wasn’t getting results, prompting them to change their approach.
Reports have emerged about attacks on Iskcon centers and the arrest of Brahmacharis in Bangladesh. These events are raising alarms about the safety of Hindu minorities, with leaders around the world speaking out. There are also concerns about mob violence and the lack of proper legal representation for those arrested, which is increasing tensions in the region.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has partnered with Bank of Bhutan to upgrade its digital banking system. The TCS BaNCS Global Banking Platform will improve operations, boost customer experience, and expand digital capabilities. This upgrade will support Bhutan's push for digital progress and new financial products, while also helping TCS grow its global presence in digital banking.
Mehbooba Mufti, former Jammu & Kashmir CM, stirred controversy by saying there is "no difference" between how minorities are treated in India and Bangladesh. Her statement was sharply criticized by BJP leaders, who called it anti-national. Mufti also criticized the Modi government on issues like unemployment, election integrity, and religious tensions in India.