Business Finance

India Advocates for Eased Compliance to Expand UPI in International Payments

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

India is intensifying its push to globalize the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) by seeking regulatory support to ease cross-border compliance requirements. The goal is to position UPI as a credible global rival to entrenched payment systems like Visa, Mastercard, and SWIFT by simplifying international transaction frameworks and promoting broader adoption. UPI’s

Economy National

Government to Borrow ₹8 Lakh Crore in First Half of FY26

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

The Indian government has announced plans to borrow ₹8 lakh crore through market borrowings in the first half of the financial year 2025–26 (FY26). This accounts for 54% of the total gross borrowing target of ₹14.82 lakh crore for the full fiscal year. The borrowing is aimed at meeting expenditure needs while managing market liquidity […]

National

Indian Government Addresses Fishermen Detention Issue with Sri Lanka

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

The ongoing issue of Indian fishermen being detained by Sri Lankan authorities has once again come into focus, with the Indian government reaffirming its commitment to resolving the matter diplomatically. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar clarified that this is not a new problem, but one that the current administration has inherited and is actively working […]

International

Trump Praises Modi, Signals Optimism in US-India Trade and Defense Ties

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

US President Donald Trump has lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a “very smart man” and a “great friend,” while expressing optimism about resolving ongoing trade differences between the two countries. The remarks come amid renewed efforts by both nations to strengthen economic and defense cooperation. Trade Talks Moving Forward President Trump

Science Space & Astronomy

ISRO Successfully Tests 200T Semi-Cryogenic Engine

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

In a landmark development for India’s space program, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted the first hot test of its powerful 200-tonne thrust semi-cryogenic engine. The breakthrough marks a critical step in ISRO’s mission to enhance its heavy-lift launch vehicle capabilities and expand its role in global space operations. Advanced Engine

International

Russia Develops Laser Rifle to Neutralize Drones at 500 Meters

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

Russia has unveiled a new handheld laser rifle capable of disabling drones at a range of up to 500 meters, marking a significant step in the nation’s push to strengthen its counter-drone defenses. The portable weapon represents a leap forward in directed-energy technologies, designed to offer rapid-response solutions on the battlefield without the need for […]

International

Devastating Earthquake Strikes Myanmar and Thailand

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocked Southeast Asia on March 28, 2025, causing catastrophic damage and loss of life in Myanmar and Thailand. With its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar, and a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, the quake triggered widespread destruction, prompting emergency declarations and urgent rescue operations. Myanmar Suffers Heavy Losses Myanmar was

Defence National

Sensitive Defense Data Allegedly Leaked Online

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

A serious data breach has reportedly compromised sensitive Indian defense information, including classified weapon designs, military infrastructure details, and strategic procurement plans. The data leak has triggered major concerns about national security, particularly in light of its alleged origin from a former Defense Ministry official’s personal device. Scope of the

National

Indians Spend 1.1 Trillion Hours on Smartphones in 2024

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

In a staggering reflection of the country’s digital transformation, Indians collectively spent over 1.1 trillion hours staring at their smartphones in 2024. On average, each user clocked five hours a day on their mobile devices, a habit that has reshaped not only consumer behavior but also the business landscape in India. Digital Media Surpasses Television […]

Environment Pollution

India Proposes Incentive Scheme for Replacing Old Air Conditioners

By BPN News Desk March 29, 2025

The Indian government is actively considering a new scrappage and incentive scheme aimed at encouraging the replacement of outdated air conditioners (ACs) with energy-efficient models. The initiative is designed to reduce electricity consumption, lower household power bills, and support environmental goals tied to energy conservation. Objectives of the Scheme The proposed