Author: Rishabh Sharma

NEW DELHI — In a significant move within the central paramilitary forces, senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Naveen Chandra Jha has been officially appointed as the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).

NEW DELHI — In a high-level diplomatic exchange on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a telephonic call from the President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, to address the escalating crisis in West Asia and its impact on global stability. The two leaders expressed shared concern over the disruption of international shipping lines, emphasizing that keeping these routes open and secure is vital for global energy security. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s steadfast commitment to its “Neighbourhood First” policy and the MAHASAGAR Vision, highlighting the need for collective action against regional challenges. Strategic Discussion Highlights Energy Cooperation: Reviewed ongoing…

NEW DELHI — The Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, that only individuals professing the Hindu, Sikh, or Buddhist faiths can claim Scheduled Caste (SC) status. The Bench, comprising Justices P.K. Mishra and Manmohan, held that converting to any other religion, such as Christianity, results in the immediate loss of SC status and its associated legal protections. The Ruling on the SC/ST Act The Court specifically clarified that a Dalit person who converts to Christianity cannot seek protection or file complaints under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. “No person who professes a religion…

REYKJAVIK — The 4th Round of India-Iceland Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) took place in Reykjavik on March 23, 2026. The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Sibi George, Secretary (West) of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Martin Eyjólfsson, Permanent Secretary of State of Iceland. Key Outcomes and Discussions: Economic Milestone: Both sides emphasized that the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) has launched a new era in bilateral commerce. They committed to deepening business ties and leveraging the agreement’s investment potential. Sectoral Cooperation: Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in high-growth areas, including renewable energy (specifically geothermal), fisheries,…

NEW DELHI — Congress MP Vijay Vasanth moved an adjournment motion in the Lok Sabha today, March 24, 2026, demanding an urgent discussion on a nationwide LPG cylinder shortage. The MP raised alarms over reports of underweight cylinders being sold at inflated prices, causing severe hardship for households and small businesses. Key Concerns Raised: Service Disruptions: The shortage has reportedly forced the closure of several hotels and canteens and disrupted essential services across multiple states. Supply Malpractice: Vasanth highlighted allegations of consumers receiving cylinders below the regulated weight while being charged premium rates. Impact on Vulnerable Groups: The MP urged…

NEW DELHI — In one of its largest-ever refinancing initiatives, the Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) has executed a ₹12,842 crore Rupee Term Loan agreement with Hindustan Urvarak and Rasayan Limited (HURL). The deal aims to optimize HURL’s debt structure while strengthening the vital link between India’s fertilizer production and railway logistics. The agreement was signed by IRFC Executive Director Sunil Kumar Goel and HURL CFO Poonam Jeswani, in the presence of IRFC Chairman & Managing Director Manoj Kumar Dubey. Strategic Importance of the Deal: Financial Optimization: The ₹12,842 crore loan will refinance HURL’s existing long-term debt, providing a more…

NEW DELHI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to share key takeaways from his address at the TV9 Summit 2026. Reflecting on India’s strategic and economic trajectory, the Prime Minister emphasized the nation’s “confidence and capability” in navigating a volatile global landscape. Key Themes from the PM’s Posts: Resilience Amid Turmoil: PM Modi noted that despite international instability, India has remained steadfast in its focus on progress and development. Opportunity from Adversity: He asserted that India has developed a unique capacity to turn global challenges into domestic successes. The “Clear Difference”: The Prime Minister highlighted a shift…

KOLKATA — Homegrown QSR giant Wow! Momo has named Sylvia Dutta as its new Lead for Corporate Communications & PR. The high-profile appointment comes as the brand rapidly scales its footprint across India. Dutta joins the company following a 15-year tenure at Jubilant FoodWorks Ltd (the operator of Domino’s and Dunkin’ in India), where she most recently served as Lead of Corporate Communications. Key Highlights: Industry Veteran: With over 16 years of experience, her background includes brand management, PR, and a former stint as a news anchor for Northeast TV. Portfolio Oversight: She will now steer the narrative for the…

MUMBAI — Creative agency VML India has announced two major leadership appointments to strengthen its national team. Kunal Roy joins as Managing Partner – West & Growth Lead, India, while Shekhar Khanna has been appointed Chief Strategy Officer. Both leaders will report to CEO Babita Baruah, focusing on integrating creativity, commerce, and technology. Leadership Profiles: Kunal Roy (Managing Partner – West & Growth Lead): * Formerly CEO of Dentsu Creative Malaysia, where he integrated six companies into a single entity. A multi-Effie Award winner with over 20 years of experience across brands like Samsung, McDonald’s, and Unilever. He will lead…

KOLHAPUR — The Board of Directors of Menon Pistons Limited has officially re-appointed Sachin Menon as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD). The decision, recently ratified by shareholders via postal ballot, ensures leadership continuity for the auto-component manufacturer for another three-year term effective from February 1, 2026.