Finance

CII Proposes 10-Point Plan to Boost Ease of Doing Business

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

In anticipation of the Union Budget 2025, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has proposed a comprehensive 10-point plan aimed at improving the ease of doing business and fostering economic growth. These recommendations emphasize policy reforms, infrastructure development, and taxation simplifications to create a more conducive environment for businesses. Key

International

India, Oman Progress Towards Free Trade Agreement

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

India and Oman recently convened for the fifth round of discussions on a proposed free trade agreement (FTA), aiming to strengthen economic ties and enhance bilateral trade between the two nations. This dialogue underscores the commitment of both countries to foster a robust trade framework that benefits key industries and sectors. Strengthening Economic Partnership The

National

Meta Clarifies Zuckerberg’s Comments on Indian Elections

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

Meta has issued a public apology following a statement attributed to CEO Mark Zuckerberg regarding Indian elections. The company clarified that the remarks were the result of an “inadvertent error” in communication and did not reflect the views of its leadership. Addressing the Miscommunication The controversy arose after a statement circulated online,

National

President Hails Indian Army’s Role in Protecting Sovereignty

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

President Droupadi Murmu has commended the Indian Army for its steadfast dedication to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring the security of its citizens. Speaking on Army Day, she highlighted the force’s critical role in maintaining peace and unity across the country. Recognizing the Army’s Contribution The President emphasized the sacrifices and

National

India Records $9.8 Billion in Losses from Natural Disasters

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

India faced economic losses amounting to $9.8 billion in 2024 due to natural disasters, underlining the significant financial burden posed by climate-related catastrophes. A combination of cyclones, floods, droughts, and heatwaves contributed to the extensive damages, affecting infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods. Natural Disasters in 2024: A Costly Toll The year

Defence National

Indian Army Eyes March Deadline for ATAGS Deal

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

The Indian Army is expected to finalize a landmark deal for 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) by March 2025. This procurement is a significant step in bolstering India’s indigenous defense manufacturing and enhancing the Army’s artillery capabilities. Indigenous Artillery to Strengthen Capabilities The ATAGS, developed under the ‘Make in India’ initiative,

Business

Meta to Lay Off 3,600 Employees Amid Restructuring

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has announced its decision to lay off 3,600 employees as part of an ongoing workforce restructuring initiative. The move aligns with CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s vision to streamline operations and improve organizational efficiency. Zuckerberg Focuses on “Raising the Bar” In a statement addressing the

State News

Manipur CM Highlights Fragility Without BJP Leadership

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has expressed serious concerns about the state’s stability in the absence of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) governance. He emphasized the critical role of his party in maintaining unity and addressing the pressing issues facing the state. Criticism of Congress Representation The Chief Minister also criticized Congress Members of

State News

MHA Approves Prosecution of Arvind Kejriwal in Excise Policy Case

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has granted the Enforcement Directorate (ED) approval to prosecute Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the excise policy case. This development adds a significant dimension to the ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy. Legal Green Light for ED The MHA’s sanction

Finance

Government Pushes for Geotagging of Banking Correspondents

By BPN News Desk January 15, 2025

The Ministry of Finance is exploring a proposal to implement geotagging for all banking correspondents (BCs) across the country. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of financial inclusion efforts, ensuring better access to banking services in underserved areas. Enhancing Financial Inclusion Geotagging involves attaching geographical information to the locations