International

US Firms Pay Heavy Penalty Over Bribery Allegations in India

By BPN News Desk December 17, 2024

Several US-based firms have been accused of paying bribes to secure contracts in India, leading to a significant penalty being imposed. According to reports, the firms opted to pay up to 300% in fines to settle the charges and avoid further prosecution. Allegations and Penalties The accusations stem from investigations that revealed US companies allegedly […]

International

Sri Lanka Ensures Sovereignty Over Hambantota Port Amid China’s Operations

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

Sri Lanka has emphasized its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and security as China’s involvement in Hambantota Port continues to draw attention. In a strong statement, Colombo clarified that no foreign entity would be permitted to use its territory in a way that compromises the country’s sovereignty. Hambantota Port’s Strategic Importance

National

Experts Say US Case Against Gautam Adani Unlikely to Lead to Extradition

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

The ongoing case against Gautam Adani in the United States, involving allegations of financial misconduct, has sparked significant international attention. While experts acknowledge that the case against the industrialist appears robust, they assert that an extradition is unlikely due to various legal and procedural hurdles. Allegations and Investigations The case

National

Income Tax Department Recovers ₹37,000 Crore from Non-Filers

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

The Income Tax Department has announced the recovery of ₹37,000 crore from individuals who failed to file their income tax returns despite earning taxable income. This significant recovery comes as part of intensified efforts to curb tax evasion and bring more individuals under the tax compliance umbrella. Widening the Tax Net Authorities have taken a […]

National

India’s Economy Gains Momentum as Business Growth Peaks

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

India’s economy closed 2024 with robust momentum, marked by a significant upswing in business growth, as reflected in the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report. The December PMI revealed a four-month high in economic activity, underlining the resilience and growth trajectory of the country’s industrial and services sectors. PMI Indicates Robust Business

State News West India

Gujarat Opens First Semiconductor Plant in Surat

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

In a significant leap for India’s technological landscape, Gujarat inaugurated its first semiconductor manufacturing plant in Surat. The plant is a testament to the state’s commitment to advancing its position in the global semiconductor supply chain and fostering innovation in India’s technology sector. Boost to India’s Semiconductor Industry The

International

Ukraine-Russia War Spurs Global Demand for Artillery Shells

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has created a massive surge in global demand for artillery shells, significantly impacting the arms manufacturing industry. As the war shows no signs of abating, countries worldwide are ramping up production and procurement to meet the growing need for ammunition. Rising Demand and Production Challenges The prolonged conflict

National

Centre Allocates ₹71,889 Crore to States for Development Projects

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

The Indian government has released a significant allocation of ₹71,889 crore to states, aiming to bolster welfare programs and development projects. This disbursement is expected to enhance states’ fiscal capacity to implement various schemes across sectors. Major Heads of Allocation The funds have been allocated under multiple heads, including rural development,

International

Russia to Offer Visa-Free Travel for Indians by 2025

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

Russia is gearing up to introduce visa-free travel for Indian citizens starting in 2025, signaling a major shift in its travel and bilateral relationship policies. The move, aimed at enhancing economic, cultural, and tourism ties, is expected to facilitate easier access for Indian travelers and strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations. Strengthening

International

Cyclone Chido Devastates France’s Mayotte Island, Hundreds Feared Dead

By BPN News Desk December 16, 2024

Cyclone Chido has left a trail of destruction across France’s Mayotte Island in the Indian Ocean, with hundreds feared dead and thousands displaced. The cyclone, which struck with unprecedented intensity, caused widespread damage to homes, infrastructure, and farmlands, plunging the island into a severe humanitarian crisis. Unprecedented Damage and Casualties Reports