Category: News

Gurugram, May 04: Radisson Hotel Group has released its 2025 Responsible Business Report, highlighting significant progress in its journey toward Net Zero and its continued commitment to people, communities, and the planet.

The report outlines how sustainability remains central to the Group’s strategy amid evolving guest expectations, climate challenges, and regulatory requirements. With a clear goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050, Radisson Hotel Group is embedding sustainability into its operations through a structured five-year roadmap focused on energy efficiency, electrification, renewable energy, and responsible resource management.

A major milestone in 2025 was the launch of the Group’s first Verified Net Zero hotels, demonstrating a scalable and practical model for reducing emissions across both new and existing properties while maintaining high operational standards and guest experience.

The report also highlights progress across its three core pillars — Think People, Think Community, and Think Planet:

Think People:

Radisson Hotel Group continues to prioritize employee well-being, inclusion, and career development across its global workforce of over 75,000 team members in more than 100 countries. The Radisson People Foundation supported over 250 employees in need, while the Group achieved an 84% engagement score and increased women representation in leadership to 31%. Additionally, 206 hotels received Safehotels certification, enhancing safety and security standards.

Think Community:

Through partnerships such as Just a Drop, the Group has helped provide clean water and sanitation access to over 34,000 people. In 2025, it contributed €890,000 in donations and recorded 79,000 volunteer hours globally. The company also earned an EcoVadis Silver Medal, reinforcing its commitment to responsible sourcing.

Think Planet:

The Group has made measurable strides toward decarbonization, including a 23% reduction in emissions intensity per square meter compared to 2019 levels and a 6% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions despite portfolio growth. Currently, 78 hotels operate on 100% renewable electricity. The opening of Verified Net Zero hotels in Manchester City Centre and Oslo City Centre underscores its commitment to sustainable hospitality.

The 2025 report also marks a step forward in transparency, being the Group’s first aligned with the European Union’s Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME), reflecting a comprehensive approach to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities.

With continued focus on innovation and accountability, Radisson Hotel Group is advancing its mission to create long-term value while contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future for the hospitality industry.

Thiruvananthapuram,May 4 (BNP): In a decisive political development, the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) has crossed the crucial majority mark in the Kerala Assembly Elections 2026, according to official trends from the Election Commission of India, signaling an end to a decade-long rule of the Left Democratic Front.

The UDF has surged ahead, leading in over 90 constituencies in the 140-member Assembly, comfortably crossing the majority mark of 71 seats. As counting nears completion, the alliance appears poised for a decisive victory, reflecting a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.

In a notable development, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is trailing in his stronghold Dharmadam, while Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan is leading in Paravur, further underscoring the changing electoral mood.

Reacting to the trends, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor described the outcome as a clear mandate for change after ten years of LDF governance. Emphasizing the party’s vision, he noted that the results reflect voters’ desire for a new direction and a different style of politics in the state.

Celebrations have erupted at Congress headquarters as party workers and leaders welcomed the strong performance, though senior leaders have urged caution until final results are formally declared.

If the trends hold, the UDF is set to return to power in Kerala, marking a significant political transition and potentially reshaping governance priorities in the state.

Further updates are awaited as the final results are confirmed.

Kolkata, May 4 (BNP): In a dramatic political shift, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday crossed the majority mark in the West Bengal Assembly elections, derailing Mamata Banerjee’s bid for a consecutive fourth term and marking a potential end to over a decade of All India Trinamool Congress dominance.

According to trends released by the Election Commission of India, the BJP is leading in 156 seats, comfortably surpassing the majority mark, while the Trinamool Congress is ahead in 86 seats. Its ally, Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (Bimal faction), is leading in one seat.

If these trends hold, the BJP is poised to form its first-ever government in the state—ending 15 years of Trinamool rule and following a prolonged 34-year tenure of Left Front governments, which had previously defined West Bengal’s political landscape.

Reacting to the party’s strong performance, Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari expressed confidence, stating that the BJP would secure over 180 seats. He also took a swipe at the ruling party, underscoring the scale of the BJP’s surge.

The election also witnessed an unprecedented voter turnout. West Bengal recorded one of its highest participation rates since Independence, with 93.19% polling in Phase I and 91.66% in Phase II, taking the combined turnout to an impressive 92.47%.

For context, in the 2021 Assembly elections, the Trinamool Congress had secured a decisive mandate with 213 out of 294 seats and nearly 48% vote share, while the BJP emerged as the principal opposition with 77 seats and around 38% votes—marking a significant rise from its earlier performance. The Left-Congress alliance failed to open its account.

As counting continues, all eyes remain on the final outcome, which could redefine the political trajectory of West Bengal and signal a historic satta parivartan in the state.

Chennai,May 4 (BNP): Tamil Nadu, long regarded as the citadel of Dravidian politics for over five decades, may be on the brink of a significant political shift as early trends from the 2026 Assembly election counting suggest an intense and unpredictable contest.

Traditionally dominated by the two major Dravidian parties—Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)—the state is now witnessing a strong three-cornered battle. The ruling DMK, led by Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, faces a resurgent AIADMK in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party, alongside a formidable new challenger—Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), founded by actor-turned-politician Vijay.

According to the latest counting trends, TVK has surged ahead of the DMK in several constituencies, indicating a potential breakthrough moment for the debutant party. This unexpected momentum has added a dramatic twist to the electoral landscape, raising questions about the future of Tamil Nadu’s long-standing political order.

Pre-election exit polls largely projected a second consecutive victory for the DMK. However, Axis My India pointed to a strong “Vijay effect,” suggesting that TVK could emerge as a kingmaker by securing close to 100 seats in the 234-member Assembly, where the majority mark stands at 118.

As counting continues, all eyes remain on whether these early trends will translate into a historic mandate. If sustained, the results could mark a profound transformation in Tamil Nadu politics, breaking the decades-old binary and ushering in a new era of multi-polar competition.

New Delhi, May 1 (BNP): India’s gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection for April 2026 surged to a record ₹2,42,702 crore, registering an 8.7 per cent increase compared to the same month last year, signalling strong economic momentum and improved tax compliance.

The April collection marks the highest-ever monthly GST mop-up since the nationwide indirect tax regime was rolled out in July 2017, highlighting sustained growth in domestic consumption, trade activity, and business transactions.

Officials said the robust tax numbers reflect the resilience of the Indian economy despite ongoing global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions impacting international markets.

GST collections are widely seen as a key indicator of economic health, as higher revenues generally point to stronger consumer demand, increased commercial activity, and better compliance among taxpayers.

The strong April figures also come at the beginning of the new financial year, raising optimism over government revenue trends and fiscal stability in the months ahead.

Economists noted that consistent growth in GST collections could provide additional fiscal space for infrastructure development, welfare programmes, and public investment, while supporting the government’s broader economic expansion agenda.

The record-breaking collection is expected to further strengthen confidence in India’s growth outlook and revenue position for FY 2026-27.

New Delhi, May 1 (BNP): Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day or May Day, is being observed across the world on Friday, May 1, 2026, to honour the contribution, dedication, and achievements of workers across all sectors.

Celebrated annually on May 1, the day recognises the strength of the labour force and highlights the importance of fair wages, safe working conditions, dignity at work, and social justice for employees.

Why Labour Day Is Celebrated on May 1

The origin of Labour Day dates back to the labour union movement in the late 19th century, particularly the historic Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886, where workers demanded an eight-hour workday. The movement became a symbol of workers’ rights and inspired countries worldwide to observe May 1 as International Workers’ Day.

In India, Labour Day was first celebrated in Chennai in 1923 by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan, making it a significant milestone in the country’s labour history.

Labour Day 2026 Theme

The global focus for Labour Day 2026 centres on workers’ rights, fair employment, social security, dignity of labour, and inclusive economic growth. Various organisations and labour groups are observing the day with discussions on job security, skill development, workplace equality, and employee welfare.

Significance of Labour Day

Labour Day serves as a reminder of the vital role workers play in building industries, economies, and nations. It also acknowledges the struggles and sacrifices made by generations of workers to secure rights and protections that many employees benefit from today.

The day is marked through rallies, awareness programmes, recognition events, and campaigns promoting labour welfare and workplace safety.

Wishes to Share on Labour Day 2026

• Happy Labour Day to all hardworking people whose dedication keeps the world moving.
• Wishing strength, success, and respect to every worker on this Labour Day.
• Salute to the hands that build the nation. Happy May Day 2026.
• Your hard work shapes the future. Happy Labour Day.
• May every worker receive dignity, fair opportunity, and prosperity.

Labour Day is more than a holiday—it is a tribute to millions of workers whose efforts power daily life and economic progress. As the world marks May 1, the occasion calls for renewed commitment to fairness, equality, and respect in every workplace.

Kolkata, May 1 (BNP): West Bengal Chief Minister and All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee early Friday issued a stern warning against any attempt to tamper with the vote counting process, hours after she made a late-night visit to an EVM strongroom in Bhabanipur alleging possible malpractice ahead of the May 4 counting.

Banerjee reached the Bhabanipur Assembly segment counting centre at Sakhawat Memorial School on Thursday night and remained inside the premises for nearly four hours along with her election agent. The strongroom houses Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) used in the April 29 polling.

Emerging from the centre shortly after midnight, she stressed the need for strict transparency in the counting process.

“Either the candidate or one agent can stay upstairs. I have also suggested installation of CCTV cameras for the media,” Banerjee told reporters.

Emphasising the importance of safeguarding public mandate, she said, “People’s votes must be protected. I rushed here after receiving complaints. If there is any plan to tamper with the counting process, it will not be tolerated.”

She also alleged that central security personnel initially prevented her from entering the premises.

The development came amid heightened political activity in the state, with TMC leaders intensifying vigilance over strongrooms ahead of counting day.

Meanwhile, Kolkata Mayor and TMC candidate Firhad Hakim reached the venue but was unable to meet Banerjee.

“I came after learning that the chief minister had arrived. However, I could not meet her as she was already inside the premises exercising her right as a candidate to inspect the strongroom,” Hakim said.

In a parallel protest, TMC leaders Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja staged a sit-in outside Khudiram Anushilan Kendra in north Kolkata, alleging irregularities and possible tampering of EVMs stored there. The protest led to tense exchanges between TMC and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters.

Earlier in a video message, Banerjee had urged party workers, leaders, and polling agents to maintain a 24-hour vigil outside all EVM strongrooms across the state.

The developments have added to the charged political atmosphere in West Bengal following a fiercely contested Assembly election, with all major parties closely monitoring arrangements ahead of the crucial counting day on May 4.

Kolkata, May 1 (BNP): Security has been significantly intensified at Netaji Indoor Stadium ahead of the counting of votes scheduled for May 4, following protests by the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) over alleged irregularities in the electoral process.

Authorities have deployed a large number of police personnel, quick response teams, and surveillance units in and around the counting centre to ensure smooth and peaceful proceedings. Entry and movement around the stadium are expected to be closely regulated, with multi-layer security arrangements put in place.

The enhanced security measures come after TMC leaders and supporters raised concerns over alleged discrepancies and demanded greater transparency in the counting process. Party representatives have also sought strict monitoring and adherence to election guidelines.

Officials said all necessary arrangements are being made to maintain law and order, prevent any untoward incidents, and facilitate a fair counting process on the scheduled date.

Netaji Indoor Stadium, one of Kolkata’s key venues for major civic and administrative events, is expected to witness heavy security presence until the completion of counting.

The administration has appealed to political parties, candidates, and supporters to cooperate with authorities and maintain peace during the counting exercise.

New Delhi, May 1 (BNP): In a major setback for businesses and commercial establishments, oil marketing companies have sharply increased the price of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders by ₹993 with effect from May 1, 2026. The steep hike is among the sharpest monthly increases in recent years and is expected to significantly impact hotels, restaurants, caterers, bakeries, roadside eateries, and small businesses across the country.

Following the latest revision, the new rates of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders in key metro cities are:

Delhi: ₹3,071.50
Mumbai: ₹3,046.50
Bengaluru: ₹3,190.00 (approx.)
Kolkata: ₹3,175.00 (approx.)

In contrast, the price of the 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder remains unchanged, offering relief to household consumers. In Delhi, the domestic LPG cylinder continues to be priced at ₹913.

Oil companies usually review and revise LPG prices on the first day of every month based on international fuel prices, exchange rates, and market conditions.

This marks the third consecutive increase in commercial LPG prices in recent months. The rate was raised by ₹144 in March, followed by another hike of nearly ₹200 on April 1. With the latest increase, commercial users are expected to face mounting operational costs.

Industry experts attribute the sharp rise to growing uncertainty in global energy markets and escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28 and has now entered its eighth week, has disrupted shipping movement through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.

The disruption in crude oil and gas supply chains has added pressure on global fuel prices, prompting domestic price revisions.

Meanwhile, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. has also announced hikes in bulk diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF), commonly known as jet fuel, used for international airline operations. However, the company has not disclosed the revised rates in its official statement or on its website.

In a statement, Indian Oil said, “Price revisions have been limited to select industrial segments, which constitute a relatively small share of overall consumption and are subject to routine monthly adjustments based on prevailing international prices.”

The latest LPG price hike is expected to raise costs across several sectors, with many businesses likely to pass the additional burden on to consumers in the coming weeks.

New Delhi,May 1 (BNP): In a major relief for millions of salaried employees and pensioners, the government is reportedly considering a sharp hike in the minimum pension under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS-95). The current minimum pension of ₹1,000 per month may be increased to ₹7,500, according to recent reports.

The proposed revision comes amid growing demands from labour unions and pensioners’ associations, who have long argued that the present pension amount is inadequate in view of rising inflation and living costs. A parliamentary panel has also reportedly supported the move, and a final decision is expected soon.

In another significant development, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is also working on enabling ATM-based withdrawals for Provident Fund (PF) accounts. This move is expected to make access to funds faster, easier, and more convenient for subscribers.

Reports suggest that under the proposed digital upgrade, members may be able to withdraw PF money directly through ATMs, similar to regular bank transactions, reducing delays in emergency fund access.

Additionally, EPFO is likely to maintain an 8.25% interest rate on EPF deposits for FY26, subject to final approval from the Finance Ministry.

If approved, these reforms would mark one of the biggest overhauls in EPFO services, offering higher retirement security and easier access to savings for crores of workers across India.