South India State News

TN Announces Pongal Bonus for Employees and Pensioners

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

The Tamil Nadu government has announced a special Pongal bonus for state employees, teachers, pensioners and family pensioners ahead of the harvest festival. Chief Minister M K Stalin approved an allocation of ₹183.86 crore to fund the bonus payments for the 2024-25 financial year. The package aims to support lower grade staff and retired personnel […]

International

Trump Shares Editorial Critical of Putin

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

US President Donald Trump has shared an editorial sharply critical of Russian President Vladimir Putin, signalling visible frustration over Russia’s conduct amid ongoing efforts to end the war in Ukraine. The editorial, which Trump reposted on social media, dismissed what it described as Putin’s “crocodile tears” and questioned Moscow’s sincerity in peace negotiations.

Law & Order National

Indore Water Contamination Death Toll Rises, Officials Suspended

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

A serious water contamination crisis in Indore, Madhya Pradesh has killed at least 10 people and left more than 2,000 residents ill after they consumed polluted drinking water in the Bhagirathpura area. The outbreak of vomiting, diarrhoea and fever symptoms began last week and escalated as more cases were reported from the affected localities. Officials […]

National

Vande Bharat Sleeper to Launch on Guwahati–Kolkata Route

By BPN News Desk January 1, 2026

Indian Railways is set to introduce the Vande Bharat Sleeper train on the Guwahati to Kolkata route in January. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the new service will be launched after the completion of mandatory trials and safety checks. The train will mark the first sleeper version of the Vande Bharat series and is […]

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 […]