International

Bangladesh Responds to Misreported USAID Funding Allegations

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

Bangladesh has strongly refuted claims that USAID allocated $21 million to support voter turnout efforts in India, clarifying that the funding was designated for local political engagement programs within Bangladesh. The controversy arose following assertions that the funds were misdirected, prompting concerns over foreign interference in regional elections. Official

AI & Robotics Technology

Nandan Nilekani Advocates for Practical AI Applications in India

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

Nandan Nilekani, co-founder and chairman of Infosys, has highlighted the substantial financial and computational resources required to develop large-scale AI models, such as ChatGPT. He noted that building these foundational models can be prohibitively expensive, with costs reaching approximately $50 million. This significant investment poses a challenge for many

Environment Green Energy

India Plans Major Investment in Solar Manufacturing

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

In a strategic move to bolster its renewable energy sector, India is finalizing a $1 billion capital subsidy initiative aimed at enhancing domestic solar manufacturing capabilities. This substantial investment underscores the nation’s commitment to reducing reliance on imports and achieving its ambitious renewable energy targets. Objectives of the Subsidy Plan The

International

President Trump Confirms Tariffs on Canada and Mexico

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

President Donald Trump has announced that tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico will commence next month, concluding a month-long suspension. This decision aims to address trade imbalances and encourage fair trade practices between the United States and its North American neighbors. Details of the Tariff Implementation The tariffs will impose a 25% duty on […]

North India State News

Central Audit Highlights Shortcomings in Delhi’s Liquor Policy

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

A recent central audit has revealed that the objectives of Delhi’s liquor policy have not been achieved. The audit identified significant deviations from the policy’s intended goals, a lack of transparency in pricing, and violations in the implementation process. Deviations from Policy Objectives The audit report points out that the policy’s

Defence National

Government Panel Proposes Private Sector Participation

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

In a strategic move to enhance India’s defense manufacturing capabilities, a high-level government panel has recommended involving private sector companies in the production of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A. This initiative aims to expedite delivery schedules, address production challenges, and reduce dependence on foreign imports, aligning with the

Defence

India Considers Private Sector Collaboration to Boost Tejas Mk1A Production

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

In a strategic move to enhance the production of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A, the Indian government has constituted a high-level committee led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. This initiative aims to address existing production challenges and expedite the induction of Tejas Mk1A jets into the Indian Air Force (IAF). The […]

International

U.S. Aligns with Russia in UN Vote on Ukraine Resolution; Allies Concerned

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

In a significant departure from its traditional alliances, the United States, under President Donald Trump’s administration, voted against a United Nations resolution condemning Russia’s actions in Ukraine. This move has raised concerns among European allies and marks a notable shift in U.S. foreign policy. The resolution, backed by European nations, sought to

National

5.1-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Bay of Bengal; Tremors Felt in Kolkata

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

A 5.1-magnitude earthquake struck the Bay of Bengal at 6:10 AM IST on February 25, 2025, with its epicenter located near Puri, Odisha, at a depth of 91 kilometers. The tremors were felt in Kolkata and various parts of West Bengal and Odisha, causing momentary concern among residents. Despite the widespread sensation of the quake, […]

Agriculture

Poultry Farmers Urge Government to Boost Maize Cultivation Amid Rising Ethanol Demand

By BPN News Desk February 25, 2025

Poultry farmers in India are urging the Union Government to enhance maize cultivation in response to the increasing diversion of maize for ethanol production, which has led to a significant rise in poultry feed costs. Maize constitutes approximately 60% of poultry feed, and its growing use in ethanol production has created a severe shortage for […]