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  • J.P. Nadda to Inaugurate 10th National Public Health Innovation Summit in Chandigarh

    Chandigarh, Apr 29 (BNP): Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J.P. Nadda will inaugurate the 10th National Summit on Good and Replicable Practices and Innovations in Public Health Systems in Chandigarh on April 30, with the two-day event scheduled to continue till May 1, 2026.

    News In Pics

    The summit is being organised by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, as a flagship platform to showcase innovative, impactful, and scalable public health practices adopted by various States and Union Territories.

    The inaugural session will be attended by Nayab Singh Saini, Chief Minister of Haryana, and Arti Singh Rao, Haryana’s Health and Family Welfare Minister, along with senior officials from the Centre and state governments.

    Participants will include Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries (Health), Mission Directors, nodal officers under the National Health Mission (NHM), and senior representatives from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Delegates from the National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC) and Regional Resource Centre–North East (RRC-NE) are also expected to attend.

    Officials said the summit aims to promote cross-learning among states by recognising successful initiatives and encouraging replication of proven healthcare models across the country.

    The annual event provides a platform for states and UTs to present evidence-based, technology-driven, and outcome-oriented interventions that have led to measurable improvements in healthcare delivery and public health outcomes.

    Since its launch in 2013, the summit has emerged as an important forum for sharing best practices and innovations in India’s healthcare system.

     
  • India Strengthens Position as Global Centre for Affordable CAR-T Cancer Therapy

    Apr 29 (BNP): India is rapidly positioning itself as one of the world’s most accessible destinations for CAR-T cell therapy, driven by advances in biotechnology and more affordable treatment options, according to ImmunoACT.

    The company highlighted that India’s growing capabilities in cell and gene therapy are helping make advanced cancer treatments more accessible to patients, both domestically and internationally. CAR-T therapy, which involves modifying a patient’s immune cells to target cancer, is considered a breakthrough in oncology but remains highly expensive in many parts of the world.

    Industry experts note that India’s cost advantage, expanding clinical infrastructure, and skilled scientific talent pool are contributing to its emergence as a competitive global centre for advanced therapies. This is also supported by increasing investment in biotech research and stronger collaboration between academia and industry.

    ImmunoACT said that India’s progress in this field reflects a broader shift toward innovation-led healthcare solutions that are both effective and affordable. The country is also focusing on scaling up production capabilities and improving regulatory pathways to support faster access to such therapies.

    With growing global interest in cost-effective cancer treatment solutions, India is expected to play a more significant role in the future of cell and gene therapy worldwide.

    The development marks a key milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a global hub for advanced medical innovation and accessible healthcare technologies.

  • Nvidia and Doosan Robotics Expand Partnership on Humanoid Robotics Development

    Seoul, Apr 29 (BNP): Nvidia and South Korea’s Doosan Robotics have expanded their collaboration to accelerate development in humanoid and advanced industrial robotics powered by artificial intelligence.

    A senior Nvidia representative recently visited Doosan Robotics to review ongoing joint work focused on integrating AI computing with robotic systems. The collaboration aims to build smarter and more adaptive robots capable of operating efficiently in real-world industrial settings.

    The partnership brings together Doosan Robotics’ expertise in robotic systems with Nvidia’s strength in AI platforms and simulation technologies. The goal is to improve robot intelligence, precision, and decision-making capabilities in areas such as manufacturing, logistics, and automation.

    Both companies are also exploring future applications of humanoid robotics, as industries globally move toward greater automation supported by advanced AI systems.

    The development reflects a broader industry trend where artificial intelligence and robotics are increasingly merging to create next-generation smart machines designed for industrial use.

    The collaboration is expected to support innovation in intelligent automation and strengthen the future of AI-driven robotics solutions worldwide.

  • Bullion Market Shock: Gold Falls INR 26,000, Silver Crashes INR 1.48 Lakh in 89 Days!

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): The Indian bullion market is witnessing a major correction, with gold and silver prices falling sharply after touching record highs earlier this year, bringing relief to buyers and triggering fresh interest among investors.

    Bullion Market Shock: Gold Falls ₹26,000, Silver Crashes ₹1.48 Lakh in 89 Days!

    According to market data, gold prices have fallen by around ₹26,000 per 10 grams, while silver has plunged by nearly ₹1.48 lakh per kilogram over the last 89 days since hitting all-time highs on January 29, 2026.

    As per the latest figures, 24-carat gold is trading around ₹1.50 lakh per 10 grams, down from its peak of ₹1.76 lakh, while silver has declined to nearly ₹2.38 lakh per kg from a record high of ₹3.86 lakh per kg.

    On April 28, gold prices reportedly dropped by ₹1,629 per 10 grams, while silver fell by ₹5,381 per kilogram, reflecting continued pressure in the precious metals market.

    Market analysts attributed the steep decline to profit booking after a strong rally, a strengthening US dollar, easing geopolitical tensions, and reduced demand for safe-haven assets.

    Experts said many investors who entered the market during the price surge are now cashing out gains, resulting in a broad-based correction across the bullion segment.

    Despite the short-term bearish trend, analysts remain optimistic about the long-term outlook for gold and silver, citing inflation concerns, global economic uncertainty, and sustained physical demand.

    Jewellery traders said the price drop has encouraged retail buyers, especially ahead of the upcoming wedding and festive season, with many consumers viewing the correction as a buying opportunity.

    However, experts advised investors to remain cautious and closely track global central bank decisions, currency movements, and geopolitical developments before making fresh investments.

  • India Targets 500 GW Clean Energy Capacity by 2030: Piyush Goyal

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): India has set an ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of clean energy capacity by 2030, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said, highlighting the country’s strong performance in climate action.

    Speaking at a climate resilience dialogue in New Delhi, Goyal said India has already met its earlier renewable energy targets ahead of schedule and continues to rank among the top performers globally in meeting its climate commitments under the G20 framework.

    He noted that India’s solar energy capacity target, initially set at 20 GW, was significantly scaled up to 100 GW after 2014 and achieved within the planned timeframe, reflecting the country’s accelerated push toward clean energy expansion.

    Goyal said India has evolved from being viewed as a cautious participant in global climate discussions to becoming a key leader, especially since the Paris COP21 agreement, where it played a significant role in building consensus among developed and developing nations.

    He also pointed to India’s growing global economic engagement, with active trade discussions underway with several countries across regions including North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Eurasia. According to him, the world is increasingly recognising India’s growth potential and its expanding role in global trade partnerships.

    The minister added that climate action in India is no longer seen as a burden but as an economic opportunity, with the renewable energy sector contributing to job creation, industrial growth, and export potential.

    He highlighted major reforms in the power sector, including the development of a unified national grid, expansion of transmission infrastructure, and efforts to strengthen base-load capacity to support renewable integration.

    Goyal also stressed the importance of collective action in addressing climate challenges, urging individuals and industries to adopt energy-efficient practices such as reducing consumption, improving efficiency, and supporting sustainable behaviour changes.

    He said such combined efforts will be crucial not only for achieving climate goals but also for unlocking new economic opportunities in emerging sectors.

  • Adani Power Q4 Profit Rises 64 pc to Rs 4,271 Crore on Strong Efficiency Gains

    Ahmedabad, Apr 29 (BNP): Adani Power Limited reported a strong 64% year-on-year jump in its consolidated net profit for the fourth quarter of FY26, reaching Rs 4,271 crore, supported by improved operational efficiency and lower tax expenses.

    The company’s revenue rose 10% to Rs 15,989 crore, while EBITDA increased 27% to Rs 6,498 crore. Power sales volume also saw a marginal rise to 27.2 billion units, backed by steady long-term demand.

    For the full year FY26, the company posted a net profit of Rs 12,971 crore, slightly higher than the previous year, with annual revenue at Rs 55,583 crore. Total power generation stood at 105 billion units.

    Adani Power continued to expand its long-term portfolio, adding significant capacity tie-ups during the year and securing new long-term supply agreements, strengthening future revenue visibility.

    The company said thermal power will remain crucial for grid stability as renewable energy capacity expands, while reaffirming its long-term growth and expansion plans.

  • Chelsea Captain Millie Bright Announces Retirement from Football

    London, Apr 29 (BNP): Chelsea Women’s team captain Millie Bright has announced her retirement from professional football, bringing an end to a highly decorated career at the club and on the international stage.

    Bright, who has been Chelsea’s longest-serving player, was part of the squad’s first major trophy win in 2015 and went on to play a key role in 19 more title victories during her tenure. She said the decision marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life after giving everything to the game.

    In her statement, Bright expressed gratitude to Chelsea, saying she is proud to have represented the club exclusively throughout her career and will always remain connected to it in a different capacity.

    Chelsea confirmed that she will continue her association with the club as a trustee of its foundation and also serve as a club ambassador, reflecting her long-standing contribution and leadership.

    During her career, Bright set multiple records, including becoming Chelsea’s all-time appearance leader and making over 300 appearances for the club. She also played a key role in the team’s domestic success, winning multiple league titles, FA Cups, and League Cups.

    On the international stage, Bright earned over 80 caps for England and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022. She also captained England to the FIFA Women’s World Cup final in 2023 and was awarded an OBE for her contribution to football.

    Her retirement marks the end of an era for Chelsea Women, with her legacy defined by leadership, consistency, and sustained success at the highest level.

  • India–Kenya Bilateral Trade Grows 25 pc, Reaches USD 4.31 Billion in 2025–26

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): India and Kenya have recorded a strong rise in bilateral trade, reflecting deepening economic engagement between the two countries.

    Total trade reached USD 4.31 billion in 2025–26, marking an increase of 24.91% compared to USD 3.45 billion in 2024–25.

    The growth highlights strengthening commercial ties and expanding trade flows across key sectors. India continues to be one of Kenya’s important trading partners, with both sides witnessing steady momentum in economic cooperation.

    Officials indicated that the upward trend points to increasing opportunities for further diversification and long-term partnership between the two economies.

  • Air India Supports Hub-and-Spoke Model, Plans International Flights from Varanasi

    New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): Air India has welcomed the government’s “hub-and-spoke” aviation model aimed at transforming India into a global aviation hub, while also announcing plans to introduce international routes from Varanasi under the new framework.

    Air India Supports Hub-and-Spoke Model, Plans International Flights from Varanasi

    The airline said the initiative is a major step toward strengthening India’s aviation ecosystem, improving connectivity, and making better use of airport infrastructure across the country.

    Air India’s CEO and Managing Director described the policy direction as a transformative move for the sector, crediting it with enhancing India’s position in global air travel and supporting long-term industry growth.

    As part of its expansion strategy, the airline plans to connect Varanasi with international destinations, improving access for passengers from eastern Uttar Pradesh and nearby regions.

    Officials associated with the airline said the model will help extend international connectivity beyond major metro cities, making global travel more accessible for passengers from smaller cities and emerging urban centres.

    The hub-and-spoke approach is expected to shift India’s aviation landscape from a point-to-point system to a more integrated transit network, enabling smoother passenger movement between regional airports and international destinations.

    Government officials have stated that the framework will also strengthen connectivity under regional aviation initiatives and reduce dependence on foreign transit hubs currently used by a large share of Indian international travellers.

    The overall objective is to develop globally competitive aviation hubs within India and position the country as a major global air travel centre.

  • NTC Borrowers Emerge as risk-calibrated growth engine, reach 4.4 Crore; Women’s Participation Rises to 41 percent: CRIF High Mark Report

    Mumbai, Apr 29: CRIF High Mark today released its latest report, “Bridging The GapUnlocking Growth from NewtoCredit Borrowers, highlighting the expanding role of first-time borrowers in driving credit growth and financial inclusion in India.

    The report notes that as of Feb’26, the total credit active population reported to the consumer bureau stood at 29 crore. Correspondingly, the newtocredit (NTC) borrower base in India has expanded steadily, with borrowers entering the formal credit system rising from 3.6 crore in 12M Ending Feb’22 to 4.4 crore in 12M Ending Feb’26, reflecting a CAGR of 5.1%.

    NTC borrowers continue to be key contributors, accounting for 17.8% of overall borrowers who originated loans in the 12 months ending Feb’26. However, this comes amid a more calibrated and selective lending approach by financial institutions, with the share reducing from 23.5% in the 12 months ending Feb’2

    A key trend identified is the rising participation of women borrowers, whose share in NTC accounts has increased from 33% to 41% over the past five years, indicating growing financial inclusion and entrepreneurial participation.

    Key insights from the report include:

    • NBFCs lead NTC lending, contributing over 60% of total NTC accounts, while banks remain relatively cautious
    • Consumer durable loans dominate as the primary entry product (32% share of NTC accounts), followed by gold and two-wheeler loans. These three loan categories together accounted for about 60% of the overall NTC account distribution for the 12M ending Feb’26.
    • Borrowers show a clear progression path, typically starting with small-ticket loans and gradually moving toward more structured credit products
    • The 26–35 age group drives the majority of NTC originations for Consumer Durables, Gold Loans, and Business Loans, while younger borrowers (<25) dominate personal and two-wheeler loans
    •  Beyond Top 100 (BT100) cities account for over 50% of NTC originations for major NTC loan types, highlighting strong demand from semi-urban and rural markets

    Encouragingly, the report also highlights improving credit behaviour among first-time borrowers. Nearly 67% of NTC borrowers transition to low-risk or very low-risk categories within one year of entering the formal credit system, indicating strong repayment discipline when supported by appropriate product structures and risk-calibrated lending.

    Women borrowers are increasingly active across consumer durable, gold, and business loans, with business loans emerging as a key driver of female entrepreneurship. Geographically, states such as Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra lead in women-led NTC originations.

    The report underscores that while lenders are becoming more selective, the NTC segment continues to offer scalable, calibrated growth opportunities, particularly across emerging geographies and younger demographics.