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  • From Rs 1.17 Lakh Dinner Bills to 9,757 Cakes an Hour: Swiggy Data Highlights India’s Growing Father’s Day Celebrations

    June 22: Swiggy, India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, revealed how Father’s Day is rapidly growing in popularity across India as an occasion for celebrations and indulgence, with increasing number of users either opting to order in or step out to celebrate the day. 

    Swiggy Dineout recorded a substantial 42.6% surge in premium-dining reservations compared to Father’s Day last year (15 June 2025) indicating a trend of grand celebrations on the day. Also, total bookings on Swiggy Dineout grew by 16.9% over Father’s Day last year. Bengaluru seated the highest number of diners nationwide, followed closely by Delhi and Hyderabad. The momentum was equally visible in emerging cities, with premium dining bookings recording an increase of 63.2% as compared to Father’s Day last year. In the emerging cities, Ahmedabad seated the highest number of diners, followed by Jaipur and Chandigarh.

    Fathers across the country were also pampered with lavish feasts. A consumer in Bengaluru registered the single highest transaction in the country, spending INR 117,284 on a Swiggy Dineout booking. A group of 30 in Dehradun gathered to celebrate together, marking the largest group booking in India. Together, customers across the nation saved over INR 6.1 crores through Swiggy Dineout during these celebrations.

    Celebrations also continued with sweet treats delivered throughout the day and food orders on the Swiggy platform increased 16% compared to Father’s Day last year (15 June 2025). Swiggy delivered an average of 9,757 cakes per hour on Father’s Day and Choco Lava Cakes, Choco Truffle Cakes, and Pineapple Cakes were the top choices for celebrating dads. The cake orders peaked at 7:56 PM when over 500 cakes were ordered in a single minute 

    While metro cities- Bengaluru and Mumbai led the volume with close to 55,000 cake orders, the enthusiasm was equally vibrant from emerging cities. Patna, Dehradun and Ludhiana topped the charts for cake orders among emerging markets, signaling that Father’s Day is being celebrated across cities. Also, Nagpur witnessed the largest single cake order of the day, with a customer ordering an assortment of 24 cupcakes spanning strawberry, blueberry, butterscotch, and chocolate.

  • Railways Enforce Stricter Onboard Discipline Under Jan Vishwas Act; Fines Up to INR 5,000 for Violations

    New Delhi, June 22: The Ministry of Railways has implemented stricter penalty provisions under the Jan Vishwas Act, introducing enhanced enforcement measures to curb nuisance activities and ensure a safer and more orderly travel environment across trains and railway stations.

    Under the revised framework, several passenger-related violations will now attract on-the-spot fines and stricter action by railway authorities and the Railway Protection Force (RPF).

    Unauthorized hawking, including the sale of goods without a valid railway-issued license, will attract a fine of ₹2,000, with repeat offenders liable for higher penalties and possible legal action, including imprisonment.

    Begging on trains and railway premises has been strictly prohibited. Individuals found engaging in such activities may be removed from coaches and penalised as per rules.

    For nuisance and misbehaviour, including the use of abusive language, creating disturbances, or travelling under intoxication, offenders may face fines of up to ₹1,000, along with possible removal from the train.

    The ministry has also reinforced strict action against smoking in prohibited areas, with violators liable to pay a fine of ₹2,000.

    In a move to strengthen passenger safety, male passengers found travelling in women-only coaches or berths will be fined ₹2,500 and de-boarded immediately.

    Railway officials stated that these measures aim to improve discipline, ensure passenger comfort, and enhance overall safety standards across the railway network.

    Passengers have been encouraged to report violations or seek assistance through the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and official railway helplines during their journey.

  • Odisha CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Families of Workers Killed in Tamil Nadu Gas Leak

    Bhubaneswar, June 22 (UDN): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the next of kin of Odia workers who lost their lives in the tragic ammonia gas leak incident at a seafood processing and export unit in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur district.

    Odisha CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh Ex-Gratia for Families of Workers Killed in Tamil Nadu Gas Leak

    The financial assistance will be provided from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF), according to an official statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

    Expressing profound grief over the incident, Chief Minister Majhi conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of all possible support from the State Government during this difficult period.

    “The Odisha Government stands firmly with the affected families and is committed to extending all necessary assistance,” the Chief Minister said.

    In a bid to coordinate rescue, relief and rehabilitation measures, the State Government has deputed a three-member team to Tamil Nadu. The team has already reached the affected site to assess the situation and facilitate support for the affected Odia workers.

    According to the CMO, the Odisha Government is maintaining constant communication with the Tiruvallur district administration and the Tamil Nadu Government to monitor rescue operations, treatment of the injured and other relief measures.

    On the direction of the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary Anu Garg also held discussions with her Tamil Nadu counterpart to ensure proper medical treatment and necessary assistance for the affected Odia workers.

    The tragic incident occurred on Sunday following an ammonia gas leak at a private seafood processing and export unit in Tiruvallur district, affecting several migrant workers, including many from Odisha.

  • RBI Likely to Keep Repo Rate Unchanged Amid Economic Uncertainty: Report

    Mumbai, June 22: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is expected to keep the repo rate unchanged in its upcoming monetary policy review, according to recent reports.

    The central bank is likely to continue with a cautious approach as it balances the need to support economic growth while keeping inflation under control amid ongoing global and domestic uncertainties.

    Maintaining the current rate is expected to provide stability to financial markets and ensure steady borrowing conditions for businesses and consumers. It may also help the RBI assess incoming economic data before making any future policy changes.

    The decision is being closely watched by markets, businesses, and policymakers for signals on the future direction of monetary policy.

     
  • BSCL Transforms Janpath into Climate-Resilient Green Urban Corridor

    Bhubaneswar, June 22: The Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited) has initiated a comprehensive beautification and greening project along Janpath, aimed at transforming the major city artery into a climate-resilient, greener, and more pedestrian-friendly urban corridor.

    Climate-Focused Urban Revitalisation

    The initiative places strong emphasis on reducing urban heat and improving environmental conditions through large-scale plantation and landscape redesign. Shade-giving trees are being planted along the corridor to mitigate rising temperatures, enhance comfort for pedestrians, and improve overall air quality.

    Officials noted that the project is aligned with broader efforts to address the Urban Heat Island effect and promote sustainable urban infrastructure.

    Enhanced Green Infrastructure

    The redevelopment plan incorporates the replacement of select hard surfaces with green landscaping zones designed to improve water absorption and ecological sustainability.

    A diverse range of plant species has been introduced, including:

    • Tabebuia rosea for seasonal pink flowering displays
    • Rudrapalash (Spathodea) for bright red blooms
    • Amaltas for yellow floral accents
    • Shrubs such as Hamelia and Acalypha
    • Groundcover plants like Rhoeo

    These additions are expected to enhance both the ecological value and visual appeal of the corridor.

    Development of Community Public Spaces

    As part of the project, 10 public plazas are being developed at strategic locations, including Ekamrakshetra, Master Canteen traffic islands, Rajmahal Flyover underside, IDCO Tower front, and OPTCL front.

    These plazas will function as cultural and social interaction spaces, supporting community engagement and hosting events such as Patha Utsav and other local gatherings.

    Towards a Sustainable Urban Future

    The initiative reflects BSCL’s commitment to developing sustainable, people-centric urban infrastructure that integrates environmental resilience with public utility.

    The project is scheduled for completion by August and is expected to serve as a model for future urban greening initiatives in Bhubaneswar.

     
  • Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Brings Design Thinking to Jammu & Kashmir, Inspires Youth to Build AI-Powered Solutions for Local Challenges

    Jammu & Kashmir June 22: Samsung India brought its flagship innovation and education programme, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026, to Jammu & Kashmir, engaging 452 students through Design Thinking Workshops that explored how artificial intelligence and human-centred innovation can be used to address real-world challenges facing their communities.

    The Design Thinking Workshops introduced participants to Samsung’s human-centred innovation framework, equipping them with practical tools to identify everyday challenges, understand user needs and develop technology-led solutions with meaningful social impact.

    Held in Army Public School, Ratnuchak Jammu and Government Degree College Baramulla the workshops encouraged students to explore innovation opportunities across digital accessibility, community development, education and smarter civic infrastructure.

    The workshops forms part of Samsung’s nationwide effort to expand innovation opportunities beyond metropolitan centres. As part of Solve for Tomorrow 2026, Samsung is conducting Design Thinking Workshops across 100 cities spanning Bharat, enabling young innovators from diverse backgrounds to build future-ready problem-solving and entrepreneurial skills.

    Among them was Zamin Anayat Lone from Government Degree College Sopore, Baramulla, who conceptualized a mobile application designed to improve accessibility and emergency response through SOS alerts and live-location sharing features.

    “The workshop taught me that innovation begins with understanding people and their experiences. It encouraged me to think about how technology can be used to create meaningful solutions that positively impact communities,” said Zamin.

    The workshops also inspired participants to examine how technology could strengthen public services and improve quality of life. Gagandeep Singh from Army Public School, Ratnuchak explored technology-enabled approaches to support more efficient waste management systems, while Garima Yadav, a Class IX student, examined how digital platforms could help students access career awareness and skill-development opportunities.

    The ideas emerging from the workshops reflected the growing innovation potential of Jammu & Kashmir’s youth. Participants demonstrated how Design Thinking can transform everyday observations into scalable solutions that address local needs while creating broader social impact.

    Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is Samsung India’s flagship innovation competition for young people aged 14–22 years. The programme encourages participants to develop solutions under four themes — AI for a Better Tomorrow, Health & Education, Environmental Sustainability, and Sport-Tech.

    As Samsung celebrates 30 years in India, the company continues to invest in nurturing the country’s next generation of innovators by bringing innovation, mentorship and entrepreneurial opportunities closer to students across Bharat.

    The programme will culminate with the top four winning teams receiving incubation grants worth INR 2 crore through FITT, IIT Delhi, along with mentorship, training, prototyping support and access to India’s startup ecosystem.

    Applications for Samsung Solve for Tomorrow 2026 are open until July 3, 2026.

    Samsung Newsroom India:  Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Brings Design Thinking to Jammu & KashmirInspires Youth to Build AIPowered Solutions for Local Challenges

  • Major Maoist Arms, Explosives Cache Recovered in Koraput

    Koraput, June 22 (UDN): In a significant breakthrough in anti-Maoist operations, security forces have recovered a huge cache of arms, ammunition and explosives from a Maoist dump concealed in the dense forests of Badlipahad under Boipariguda police station limits in Odisha’s Koraput district.

    News In Pics

    The recovery was made during an intensive search operation conducted by the District Voluntary Force (DVF), Koraput, on the basis of specific intelligence inputs received from surrendered Maoist cadres. The operation was launched in the forested areas bordering Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, a region considered vulnerable to Maoist activities.

    During the combing operation, security personnel unearthed the hidden dump at around 5.30 am on Monday.

    The seized materials include one INSAS rifle, one country-made firearm, six Claymore mines weighing approximately 18 kg, multiple tiffin bomb-based Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) weighing around 14 kg, a Maoist kit bag, Maoist literature, medicines and food items.

    According to police, the recovered cache is suspected to belong to cadres of the banned Andhra-Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC). The arms and explosives were allegedly stockpiled for use in attacks against security forces and civilians.

    Officials described the seizure as a major success that has dealt a significant blow to Maoist activities in the region and may have averted potential threats.

    The operation assumes significance as Koraput district continues its efforts to achieve the goal of becoming completely Naxal-free by March 31, 2026. Security forces, including the Special Operations Group (SOG), District Voluntary Force (DVF) and Border Security Force (BSF), have intensified anti-Maoist operations and are carrying out regular combing and area domination exercises to prevent any resurgence of extremist activities.

  • NHAI Directs Wayside Amenities to Prioritise Vehicle Repair Facilities on Highways

    New Delhi, June 22: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued comprehensive directions to all wayside amenities along national highways to prioritise the development and operational readiness of vehicle repair and breakdown assistance facilities.

    The directive is aimed at significantly strengthening roadside support infrastructure across India’s national highway network and ensuring timely assistance to commuters in the event of vehicle breakdowns or emergencies.

    Strengthening Roadside Safety and Support

    NHAI stated that the availability of reliable and prompt repair services is a critical component of highway safety and user convenience. With increasing traffic density and rising long-distance travel, the authority has emphasized the need for robust and accessible roadside support systems.

    The initiative is expected to reduce travel disruptions, minimize traffic congestion caused by stalled vehicles, and improve overall efficiency in highway operations.

    Key Focus Areas

    Under the directive, wayside amenities are encouraged to:

    • Ensure availability of dedicated vehicle repair and maintenance services
    • Provide trained personnel capable of handling common breakdown situations
    • Maintain essential spare parts and emergency repair equipment
    • Facilitate towing and emergency assistance services where required
    • Strengthen coordination mechanisms for faster response times

    Enhancing User Experience

    The authority highlighted that improving roadside service infrastructure is essential for enhancing the overall travel experience on national highways. Reliable breakdown assistance not only improves commuter confidence but also contributes to smoother traffic movement and reduced accident risks.

    Part of Broader Highway Modernisation Effort

    The initiative forms part of NHAI’s ongoing efforts to modernize highway infrastructure and upgrade user amenities across the country. These measures are aligned with the broader vision of developing safer, more efficient, and more commuter-friendly national highways.

    The authority reiterated its commitment to continuously improving service standards and ensuring that highway users have access to essential support services throughout their journeys.

  • West Bengal Budget 2026–27 Focuses on Tax Simplification and Revenue Growth

    Kolkata, June 22: The Government of West Bengal has presented its Budget for the financial year 2026–27, with a strong focus on tax simplification and measures aimed at boosting revenue growth.

    The budget outlines initiatives to streamline tax processes, improve compliance, and make the taxation system more efficient and taxpayer-friendly. The reforms are intended to reduce complexity and enhance ease of doing business across sectors.

    The government has also emphasized widening the tax base and strengthening revenue collection mechanisms to improve fiscal stability and support long-term development priorities.

    Officials stated that these measures are designed to ensure better transparency, improved efficiency in financial management, and sustained economic growth in the state.

    The budget reflects the government’s continued commitment to strengthening public finances while supporting economic activity and investment in West Bengal.

     
  • Dedicated Freight Corridor Boosts Gujarat’s Logistics Capacity Ahead of VGRC

    Gandhinagar, June 22: Ahead of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC), the Dedicated Freight Corridor has emerged as a major driver in enhancing Gujarat’s logistics infrastructure and overall cargo handling capacity.

    The improved freight connectivity is expected to significantly reduce transit time, lower logistics costs, and improve efficiency in goods movement across key industrial and port-linked routes in the state.

    Officials highlighted that the Dedicated Freight Corridor is strengthening integration between industrial zones, logistics parks, and major ports, thereby streamlining supply chains and supporting faster movement of goods.

    The development is anticipated to further reinforce Gujarat’s position as a leading industrial and logistics hub, attracting investment and supporting export-oriented growth.

    The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize India’s freight infrastructure and improve competitiveness in global trade networks.