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National News
PM Modi terms the GST 2.0 reforms a festival of savings
The Government rolled out a simplified two-slab Goods and Services Tax regime, promising increased ease for businesses and significant savings for households. PM Modi called it a "bachat utsav" (festival of savings), linking it to economic self-reliance (aatmanirbharta) and the upliftment of Indian MSMEs. These reforms are expected to make everyday goods cheaper and promote local manufacturing, while boosting national pride and domestic economic strength.
Nitish Kumar is the face of the NDA in Bihar and will be Chief Minister
JDU leader Sanjay Kumar Jha affirmed Nitish Kumar’s continuing leadership as CM for Bihar, reassuring voters ahead of the assembly elections. The alliance’s pro-incumbency factor, focus on welfare (like Vikas Mitra allowances), and double-digit growth make for a stable electoral environment. Nitish Kumar’s government also increased digital empowerment allowances for welfare workers, marking social sector progress.
International News
Palestinian state recognised by U.K., Australia, and Canada, marks a seismic shift for West
Britain, Australia, and Canada formally recognized the State of Palestine, breaking decades of policy and providing a positive sign for Palestinian aspirations. Their recognition signals fresh hope for peace and a two-state solution, as the world witnesses shifting diplomatic currents in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. This move is seen as a diplomatic milestone, raising the prospect of greater global support for Palestinian statehood.
India assures Nepal help in rebuilding damaged structures
India’s Ambassador to Nepal conveyed readiness to help reconstruct buildings damaged during the recent Gen Z protests, pending Nepal’s official request. Discussions also included continued energy and water resource cooperation, as well as increased electricity exports from Nepal to India. This gesture highlights India’s commitment to its neighbors and strengthens regional partnerships in times of crisis.
Economy News
BJP to hold nationwide campaign on revised GST structure
The BJP is launching a "GST Savings Festival" to spread awareness among traders and the public about the rationalized GST rates, aiming to highlight consumer and economic benefits. The new regime is part of India’s broader economic messaging and reforms to increase transparency and simplify compliance. The campaign is expected to foster greater acceptance and understanding of the changes among stakeholders, boosting economic sentiment.
Hyderabad Airport cargo growth leads the nation
Hyderabad International Airport registered the fastest growth in international cargo volume among Indian major airports for FY25, led chiefly by high-value pharmaceutical exports. Ongoing expansion and modernization—including perishable cargo facilities—promise to boost exports from Southern India further, reduce logistics costs, and create new opportunities for local industries. This positions Hyderabad as a rapidly emerging logistics and export hub.
Science & Technology News
Astronomers identify the most powerful cosmic explosions since the Big Bang: Extreme Nuclear Transients (ENTs)
Scientists at the University of Hawai‘i discovered ENTs, celestial events even more energetic than gamma ray bursts, occurring when massive stars are torn apart by supermassive black holes. These events help study early-universe black holes and massive galactic centers, advancing our knowledge of cosmic evolution and physics. The discovery opens up new frontiers in astronomy and refines techniques to observe extreme phenomena across the universe.
Debate on breaking the paywall: Advocating open access to scientific knowledge
India, the world’s fourth-largest producer of PhDs, is debating the ethics and legality of paywalled academic publishing after the High Court ordered blocking of SciHub and Libgen. Calls for freely accessible science are gaining momentum, especially as resource constraints hinder Indian students and researchers. Increased advocacy is expected to democratize access to scientific literature, elevating Indian research competitiveness globally.
Sports News
India defeats Pakistan in Asia Cup with a commanding all-round performance
India chased down Pakistan’s total of 171 with spirited batting led by Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill, winning by six wickets and seven balls to spare in Dubai. The robust opening partnership and aggressive cricket ensured a memorable victory in this high-stakes Asia Cup match. This result boosts team morale and cements India’s position as a favorite in the ongoing tournament.
Franchise-based sports leagues transform regional sporting economy in India
Non-cricketing national sports leagues, such as football, kabaddi, and newer sports like pickleball, are driving the next wave of India’s sports business boom. Grassroots sports and regional leagues are propelling interest, sponsorship, and brand engagement beyond cricket, creating alternative professional pathways for athletes and economic growth for local communities. The proliferation and monetization of these leagues embody the broadening of India’s sporting landscape.
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