Category: News

New Delhi, June 23: India’s internet subscriber base has grown to 1.09 billion, registering an increase of over 6 per cent, according to data released by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

The growth reflects continued expansion of digital connectivity across urban and rural areas, driven by rising smartphone usage, affordable data plans, and ongoing network expansion by telecom service providers.

TRAI data indicates that both wired and wireless internet subscriptions have contributed to the overall rise, with wireless services continuing to account for the majority of users in the country.

The steady increase in internet penetration highlights India’s accelerating digital adoption, supporting growth in areas such as digital payments, e-governance, online education, and entertainment services.

Industry observers note that improved network infrastructure and competitive pricing among telecom operators have played a key role in expanding access to internet services across diverse socio-economic groups.

The regulator said the upward trend underscores India’s position as one of the largest and fastest-growing digital markets globally, with continued scope for further expansion in connectivity and digital inclusion.

Vilnius, June 23: Lithuania’s Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė has resigned from office, marking a significant political development in the country’s leadership.

The resignation comes amid ongoing political adjustments within the government, though no immediate details were provided regarding the specific reasons for stepping down. The move is expected to trigger discussions on leadership transition and the formation of a new government arrangement.

Ruginienė’s tenure was marked by efforts to address key economic and social priorities, along with managing domestic policy challenges during a period of regional uncertainty in Europe.

Following her resignation, the process of appointing a new Prime Minister is expected to begin in accordance with Lithuania’s constitutional procedures. Political consultations among governing parties are likely to shape the next phase of leadership.

Officials stated that government institutions will continue to function normally during the transition period to ensure stability and continuity in governance.

The development marks an important moment in Lithuania’s political landscape as the country prepares for a new phase of executive leadership.

June 23:Indian spinner Sree Charani has achieved a major career milestone by rising to the top of the ICC Women’s T20 International bowling rankings, overtaking Sophie Ecclestone to become the world’s No. 1 ranked T20I bowler.

The achievement comes on the back of a series of impressive performances that have showcased Charani’s consistency, control, and ability to deliver in crucial moments. Her rise to the summit of the rankings highlights her growing influence in international cricket and marks a significant moment for Indian women’s cricket.

Charani’s ascent reflects the rewards of sustained hard work and strong performances on the global stage. Her ability to trouble batters with accuracy and composure has made her one of the most effective bowlers in the shortest format of the game.

The milestone has been welcomed by cricket fans and experts alike, who view it as recognition of her rapid development and contribution to the Indian team’s recent success.

With the No. 1 ranking now to her name, Charani joins an elite group of bowlers who have reached the pinnacle of the ICC rankings, further strengthening India’s presence in international women’s cricket.

The achievement is expected to inspire aspiring cricketers across the country while underscoring the continued rise of Indian women’s cricket on the world stage.

Mumbai, June 23: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has injected ₹1.41 lakh crore into the banking system, providing a significant liquidity boost aimed at supporting financial stability and ensuring adequate funds are available across the banking sector.

The liquidity infusion is expected to help banks meet growing credit demand from businesses and consumers while maintaining smooth functioning of financial markets. The move comes as the central bank continues to closely monitor liquidity conditions and support economic activity.

Market experts believe the additional funds will improve cash availability within the banking system, ease short-term funding pressures, and facilitate lending across key sectors of the economy.

The RBI has been actively using various monetary tools to manage liquidity and ensure that financial institutions have sufficient resources to support growth and investment. The latest infusion reflects the central bank’s commitment to maintaining orderly market conditions and supporting the flow of credit.

Analysts noted that a well-liquid banking system plays a crucial role in sustaining economic momentum by enabling banks to extend loans, support businesses, and finance development activities.

The liquidity injection is expected to enhance confidence in the financial system and reinforce the banking sector’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the economy.

June 23: India’s economy is being viewed with long-term optimism due to its strong focus on innovation-led growth, even as the global environment remains uncertain, according to a World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) economist.

The economist noted that India’s expanding innovation ecosystem—supported by startups, digital infrastructure, and increasing investment in research and development—is helping the country strengthen its economic resilience.

Despite global challenges such as geopolitical tensions and slower growth in some major economies, India continues to show steady progress in technology adoption and intellectual property creation. This, experts say, is positioning the country as an emerging leader in innovation-driven development.

The growth of sectors such as digital services, fintech, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing innovation is also contributing to India’s broader economic transformation.

WIPO officials highlighted that sustained policy support and a young, skilled workforce are key factors supporting India’s long-term growth potential.

Overall, while global uncertainties persist, India’s innovation-focused growth path is expected to remain a strong source of economic optimism in the coming years.

Bhubaneswar, June 23: The southwest monsoon has arrived across all parts of Odisha in a remarkably quick span of just 11 days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The monsoon began advancing into the state on June 12 and has now fully covered the region.

The arrival of monsoon winds has brought a welcome change in weather conditions. Most parts of the state are witnessing cloudy skies, with several areas receiving light to moderate rainfall.

The widespread cloud cover has also helped ease the heat, bringing noticeable relief from high temperatures. Western Odisha, in particular, has experienced a drop of 3 to 5 degrees Celsius, making conditions significantly more comfortable.

The weather office has also indicated that temperatures may fall further by around 3 degrees Celsius over the next couple of days, along with continued cloudy skies and chances of intermittent rain.

Overall, the early and fast-moving monsoon has improved weather conditions across Odisha, bringing relief from heat and supporting the upcoming agricultural season.

June 23: The Government of India has put in place contingency measures to address agricultural challenges arising from an estimated 40% rainfall deficit, according to the Agriculture Commissioner.

Officials stated that despite the uneven and below-normal monsoon conditions in several regions, preparedness plans are being implemented to safeguard crop production and support farmers. These measures include advisories on crop planning, promotion of drought-resilient seed varieties, and targeted interventions to manage water stress in affected areas.

The Agriculture Commissioner emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the situation and working with state authorities to ensure timely response mechanisms are activated where rainfall shortfalls are impacting sowing and crop growth.

Special focus is being given to vulnerable regions where delayed or insufficient monsoon rainfall may affect key kharif crops. Irrigation support, alternative cropping strategies, and extension services are being strengthened to minimise potential losses.

While the rainfall deficit presents challenges for the current agricultural season, officials remain confident that coordinated efforts between central and state agencies will help mitigate risks and support farm productivity.

Overall, the government reiterated its commitment to ensuring farmer welfare and maintaining food security through proactive planning and real-time monitoring of monsoon conditions.

New Delhi,June 23: Reports have suggested that CRED founder Kunal Shah may be appointed as the global head of WhatsApp, while Meta is also said to have made a significant investment of nearly $1 billion in the fintech company CRED.

According to sources cited in media reports, discussions are underway regarding a possible leadership reshuffle within WhatsApp, a messaging platform owned by Meta. However, there has been no official confirmation from either Meta or WhatsApp regarding the reported appointment.

In a parallel development, reports also indicate that Meta has invested close to $1 billion in CRED, the Indian fintech platform founded by Kunal Shah. The investment, if confirmed, would mark one of the major global funding moves involving an Indian consumer fintech company.

Neither Meta nor CRED has issued an official statement confirming the reported deal or leadership change at WhatsApp.

The reports have sparked widespread discussion in the technology and startup ecosystem, though details remain unverified at this stage.

Further clarification from the companies is awaited.

Baripada, June 23 (UDN): The Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district will remain closed for tourists and visitors from June 29 due to the onset of the monsoon season and associated safety concerns, authorities announced on Monday.

 UDN (File)

According to an official notification issued by the Office of the Director, Similipal Tiger Reserve, tourist entry through Kaliani Gate in Jashipur and Pithabata Gate near Baripada will be suspended until further notice. However, the Talabandh and Jamuani eco-tourism complexes will continue to remain open for visitors during the closure period.

Authorities said the annual shutdown has been enforced as heavy monsoon rainfall makes forest roads muddy, slippery and difficult to navigate. In addition, rainwater flowing down from the hills often damages internal roads, increasing the risk to tourists and vehicles inside the reserve.

Field Director of Similipal Tiger Reserve and Regional Chief Conservator of Forests, Baripada Circle, Dr. Prakash Chandra Gogineni, said the reopening date will be decided later based on weather conditions and road safety assessments after the monsoon season.

Officials noted that the reserve was reopened to tourists on October 18, 2025, and follows a routine seasonal closure every year during the rainy period to ensure visitor safety and ecological protection.

Further updates regarding reopening will be issued by the authorities in due course.

Mundra, June 23: Adani Mundra Airport has officially commenced its first scheduled commercial flight operations, marking a major milestone in enhancing air connectivity for the Kutch region.

The new service connects Mundra with Mumbai and Goa, providing direct and convenient travel options for passengers, businesses, and the tourism sector. The inaugural scheduled operations were launched by airline partner Star Air, as part of the airport’s broader expansion of regional connectivity.

Officials said the introduction of scheduled flights is expected to significantly boost economic activity in the region by improving access to key commercial and tourism hubs. The enhanced connectivity is also likely to support trade, logistics, and industrial growth in Kutch, which is already a rapidly developing economic zone.

In addition to the Mumbai and Goa routes, the airport has expanded its network to multiple other destinations, further strengthening its role as an emerging aviation hub in western India.

Industry experts believe the move will reduce travel time, improve business mobility, and encourage new investments in the region, especially in sectors linked to ports, manufacturing, and exports.

The development marks a new phase in Mundra Airport’s operations, transitioning it into a key node in India’s growing regional aviation network.