International

India Seeks USAID Funding Details from US Embassy

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

The Indian government has formally requested the US Embassy to provide detailed records of USAID-funded projects in the country over the past decade. This move aims to enhance transparency and accountability regarding the utilization of foreign aid and its impact on local initiatives. India Requests Clarity on USAID Expenditures The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) […]

South India State News

Telangana Assembly Approves 42% Reservation for Backward Classes

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

The Telangana Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed two significant bills aimed at increasing reservations for backward classes (BCs) to 42% in educational institutions and public employment. This legislative move seeks to enhance social equity and provide greater opportunities for historically marginalized communities within the state.​ Details of the Passed Bills

North India State News

Nagpur Under Curfew Amid Clashes Over Aurangzeb’s Tomb

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

Nagpur has been placed under curfew following violent clashes triggered by demands for the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. The unrest has led to property damage, injuries, and heightened communal tensions, prompting authorities to enforce strict measures to restore order. Violence Erupts Over Aurangzeb’s Tomb The clashes began after protests demanding the removal

Economy National

Mini Liquor Bottle Sales Signal Consumer Caution Amid Economic Uncertainty

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

Economists are analyzing unconventional indicators, such as the increase in sales of mini liquor bottles and single cigarettes, as potential warning signs of economic uncertainty and shifting consumer behavior. These trends suggest that households may be adjusting spending patterns in response to financial pressures. Rising Sales of Mini Liquor Bottles A notable increase

Infrastructure National

Government Proposes Amendments to National Highways Act to Enhance Land Acquisition Efficiency

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

The Indian government has proposed amendments to the National Highways Act to speed up land acquisition for infrastructure projects while addressing compensation disputes. The changes aim to reduce delays, ensure fair compensation, and improve transparency in the acquisition process. Key Provisions of the Proposed Amendments Return of Unused Land One of the significant

Middle East

Israel’s Airstrikes on Gaza Result in Over 200 Deaths Amid Ceasefire Collapse

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

On March 18, 2025, Israel launched extensive airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, resulting in at least 200 fatalities, including numerous women and children. This marks the most significant escalation since the ceasefire agreement established in January. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) targeted multiple locations, including Gaza City, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, and Rafah,

Finance

NPCI to Phase Out ‘Collect Call’ Transactions to Reduce UPI Fraud

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is set to phase out the ‘collect call’ feature in Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions to curb rising fraud cases. The feature, which allows merchants to send payment requests to customers for approval, has been widely exploited by scammers tricking users into authorizing unintended payments. To enhance

South India State News

Alstom to Manufacture 32 Additional Driverless Trains for Chennai Metro Phase II

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

Alstom, a global leader in rail transport, is poised to manufacture an additional 32 driverless trains for Chennai Metro Rail’s Phase II project. This development builds upon Alstom’s existing contract to supply 78 metro coaches, including 26 driverless train sets, awarded in November 2022. The Phase II expansion of Chennai Metro encompasses three new lines:

Industry

India Plans Measures to Strengthen Steel Industry Amid U.S. Tariffs

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

India is formulating strategies to bolster its steel industry in response to the recent 25% tariffs imposed by the United States on steel imports. The government’s initiatives aim to mitigate potential adverse effects on domestic steel producers and sustain export growth. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme is under consideration to enhance domestic steel

Finance

RBI’s ₹1.9 Lakh Crore Liquidity Infusion Expected to Lower Lending Rates

By BPN News Desk March 18, 2025

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has implemented significant liquidity infusion measures aimed at stimulating economic growth and potentially leading to a reduction in lending rates sooner than anticipated. These measures are designed to alleviate liquidity constraints in the banking system, thereby enabling banks to lower borrowing costs for consumers and businesses. To