International

China Hails India Overtaking Japan as 4th Largest Economy

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

China has welcomed India overtaking Japan to become the world’s fourth largest economy, describing the development as a reflection of India’s growing economic strength. Responding to the milestone, a spokesperson from the Chinese side said India’s rise demonstrates that true national strength comes from recognising historical realities, learning from them and taking

Automobile

Auto Stocks Rise as M&M Reports 25% December Sales Growth

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

Shares of automobile companies traded higher after several manufacturers reported strong sales numbers for December. Auto stocks rose by up to 3 percent in early trade, lifting overall sentiment in the sector. The gains were driven by optimism around sustained demand across passenger and commercial vehicle segments, despite broader market volatility. Mahindra &

Business

Buffett Steps Down as Berkshire Hathaway CEO

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

Warren Buffett has stepped down as chief executive officer of Berkshire Hathaway, marking the end of an era at one of the world’s most influential conglomerates. The transition took effect at the start of 2026, with Buffett handing over day to day management of the company after more than six decades in charge. Buffett, who […]

Government Policies National

Centre Hikes 19 kg Commercial LPG Price by ₹111

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

The price of a 19 kg commercial liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder has been increased by ₹111 with effect from January 1, 2026. The revision applies to commercial LPG cylinders used by businesses such as hotels, restaurants, catering units and food outlets. The increase comes at the start of the new year and is expected […]

International

France Plans Social Media Ban for Under-15s From 2026

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

The French government is planning to ban children under the age of 15 from accessing social media platforms from September 2026. The proposal is part of a broader effort to limit the impact of digital platforms on minors and address concerns related to mental health, online safety and excessive screen use. Currently, French law requires […]

International

Xi Says China–Taiwan Reunification Is Unstoppable

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping said that reunification with Taiwan is “unstoppable,” reaffirming Beijing’s long standing position on the issue in his New Year address. Xi said people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait share deep historical and cultural ties, and described reunification as a natural course of history. China considers Taiwan part of its […]

National

DGCA Seeks Explanation From Air India Over Dreamliner Operations

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a show-cause notice to Air India seeking an explanation for operating a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner despite repeated technical snags. The notice, sent this week, raises concerns about safety and compliance after the aircraft, registered VT-ANI, was flown on scheduled services despite known maintenance issues. Safety

Health

Centre Bans High-Dose Nimesulide Oral Drugs

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

The Union Health Ministry has banned the manufacture, sale and distribution of oral nimesulide formulations containing more than 100 mg in immediate release form. The decision was taken under provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act after a review of safety data and expert recommendations. Authorities said higher doses of the drug pose increased health […]

International

Crans-Montana Explosion Kills Several in Swiss Ski Town

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

Several people were killed and many others injured after an explosion and fire struck a venue in the Swiss ski resort town of Crans-Montana early on January 1, 2026. The incident occurred shortly after midnight during New Year celebrations, when the area was crowded with visitors and locals marking the start of the year. Police […]

International

Zohran Mamdani Sworn In as New York City Mayor

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as the new mayor of New York City just after midnight on January 1, 2026. The oath taking ceremony was held at the decommissioned Old City Hall subway station beneath City Hall Park in Manhattan. The location was chosen for its historical significance and its link to the city’s public […]