Economy

Urban-Rural Economic Divide Narrows Across India in 2023-24

By BPN News Desk December 28, 2024

A recent report highlights significant progress in reducing the urban-rural disparity in 21 of India’s 36 states and union territories during the fiscal year 2023-24. This development underscores ongoing efforts to achieve balanced economic growth across the country. Progress in Bridging Disparities The report reveals a marked reduction in gaps related to income, access to

Finance

Electronics Industry Seeks Import Duty Cuts in Budget 2025

By BPN News Desk December 28, 2024

The Indian electronics industry has urged the government to consider significant reductions in import duties and enhanced incentives in the upcoming Union Budget 2025. The sector, a cornerstone of India’s manufacturing and export ambitions, seeks measures to lower costs and bolster its global competitiveness. Key Demands from Industry Leaders Industry stakeholders have

International

Putin Confirms Air Defense Activity During Russian Plane Crash

By BPN News Desk December 28, 2024

In a recent dialogue with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the activation of Russian air defense systems during the time of a tragic plane crash. The incident has raised questions about the involvement of defense mechanisms in the crash, with investigations underway to determine the exact cause. Details of the Plane […]

International

Afghan Forces Retaliate Against Pakistan for Airstrikes

By BPN News Desk December 28, 2024

Tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan escalated further as Afghan forces launched a retaliatory attack in response to airstrikes carried out by Pakistan, which reportedly killed dozens of civilians in Afghanistan. The conflict underscores the fragile state of relations between the two neighbors amid rising violence in the region. Deadly Airstrikes by Pakistan Reports

International

Jaishankar Meets Michael Waltz to Enhance India-US Ties

By BPN News Desk December 28, 2024

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar recently met with Michael Waltz, nominee for National Security Advisor (NSA) in the potential Trump administration, to discuss avenues for deepening the India-US strategic partnership. The meeting took place amid growing global challenges and underscored the shared interests between the two nations in enhancing defense,

Telecom

BSNL to Implement VRS 2.0 to Streamline Workforce

By BPN News Desk December 28, 2024

The Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), a state-owned telecommunications company, is set to roll out a new Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS 2.0) as part of its strategic plan to reduce workforce size by 35%. This initiative comes in the wake of the government’s broader efforts to revitalize the company and ensure its operational efficiency. Details […]

Editorials

Kohli vs. the Aussies: When the Hunter Becomes the Hunted

By BPN News Desk December 27, 2024

Cricket, they say, is a gentleman’s game. But let’s be real: when India plays Australia, it’s less Downton Abbey and more WWE SmackDown. For years, the Australians have been the undisputed kings of sledging, intimidation, and, let’s not forget, playing the victim card when someone dared to clap back. Enter Virat Kohli, India’s sultan of […]

South India State News

Karnataka Faces Rs 15 Crore Loss Due to RTO Scam

By BPN News Desk December 27, 2024

A recent scam at the Bengaluru Central Regional Transport Office (RTO) has caused a loss of over Rs 15 crore to the Karnataka state exchequer. Investigations revealed that 1,471 vehicles evaded motor vehicle tax, taking advantage of loopholes and potential internal collusion. Key Findings of the Investigation Authorities discovered that several high-end vehicles registered

Finance

RBI Plans Stricter Norms for Top-Up Loans

By BPN News Desk December 27, 2024

In a move to address potential financial risks and bolster banking sector stability, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is considering tightening the eligibility criteria for top-up loans. This step comes in response to concerns about rising leverage and the associated risks to borrowers and lenders alike. Why Tighten Top-Up Loan Norms? Top-up loans, often […]

Finance

Supreme Court Allows Banks to Impose 30% Interest on Credit Card Dues

By BPN News Desk December 27, 2024

The Supreme Court of India has permitted banks to charge interest rates of up to 30% annually on unpaid credit card dues. This ruling reinforces the autonomy of financial institutions while emphasizing the need for transparency in credit card terms for consumers. Key Ruling Details The court’s decision came after extensive deliberations on the reasonableness […]