Category: News

New Delhi, June 19: In a significant step towards empowering India’s youth and strengthening formal employment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will today distribute incentives worth ₹2,400 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY).

Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia

The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to creating sustainable employment opportunities and supporting young individuals as they enter the workforce. The incentives will be transferred directly to more than 15 lakh beneficiaries through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism, ensuring transparency and timely assistance.

Speaking about the programme, Union Labour and Employment Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted the scheme’s positive impact since its launch in August last year. More than 63 lakh individuals have been brought into the formal workforce under PM-VBRY, with nearly 30 per cent of the beneficiaries being women, reflecting the scheme’s contribution towards greater workforce participation and gender inclusion.

The programme also provides special support to first-time job seekers. Young individuals securing their first employment opportunity will receive financial assistance of up to ₹15,000 in two instalments, helping them transition into the professional world with greater confidence and financial security.

Dr. Mandaviya noted that over 80 per cent of the establishments benefiting from the scheme are small enterprises employing fewer than 25 workers. By supporting these businesses, PM-VBRY is helping generate employment at the grassroots level while strengthening the country’s micro and small enterprise ecosystem.

The initiative forms a key part of the government’s broader vision of harnessing the potential of India’s “Yuva Shakti” by creating opportunities, encouraging entrepreneurship, and promoting inclusive economic growth. As employment generation continues to remain central to India’s development journey, PM-VBRY is emerging as an important bridge connecting aspiring youth with meaningful livelihood opportunities.

#Dr. Rajashekhar Successfully Summits Mt. Denali, Completing Historic Seven Summits Challenge

Hyderabad, June 19: Indian mountaineer and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Rajashekhar has successfully summited Mt. Denali, North America’s highest peak, completing the prestigious Seven Summits challenge—climbing the highest mountain on each continent. With this achievement, he becomes the first doctor from the South Indian states to accomplish the feat.

For Dr. Rajashekhar, the journey to the Seven Summits has been shaped as much by personal adversity as by high-altitude achievement. Throughout this journey, he received invaluable support and guidance from Bharath Thamineni, founder of Boots and Crampon, whose encouragement played an important role in helping him pursue this ambitious goal.

 

A specialist in hip and knee surgery and a robotic surgeon, he spent years working alongside leading orthopedic surgeons in Hyderabad while also training younger surgeons entering the field. However, his life took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic when he contracted the virus and was hospitalized.

The recovery proved difficult. According to Dr. Rajashekhar, lingering fatigue and a loss of motivation forced him to step away from his profession for nearly a year.

Determined to rebuild his health, he set himself an ambitious goal. He chose mountaineering, a sport that demands exceptional endurance, physical fitness and mental resilience, and began training systematically.

His Seven Summits journey started with a successful ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania on January 26, 2022. He followed that with a summit of Mt. Elbrus, Europe’s highest mountain, in August 2022.

After suffering multiple injuries, Dr. Rajashekhar took a year-long break before returning to the mountains. He climbed Mt. Kosciuszko in Australia in August 2023 and reached the summit of Mt. Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak, on February 4, 2024.

Just months later, he achieved his most significant mountaineering milestone by summiting Mt. Everest on May 23, 2024.

His first attempt on Mt. Denali in Alaska came in June 2025. Severe weather conditions prevented a summit push, and he suffered frostbite during the descent.

Rather than ending the project, the setback reinforced his determination. Later, he successfully climbed Mt. Vinson, Antarctica’s highest peak, alongside fellow climber Kavita.

On June 18, 2026, Dr. Rajashekhar reached the summit of Mt. Denali at approximately 8:30 AM IST. According to a voice message shared with family, the climb was completed smoothly despite cold temperatures and light winds.

“Summit was successfully done without any issue. Little winds and cold temperature otherwise everything is good. No injuries, whole team is doing well,” he said.

Reflecting on the achievement, Dr. Rajashekhar said, “Standing on Mt. Denali after everything I’ve been through is an incredibly emotional moment. This journey tested me physically and mentally, but it also reminded me of the power of resilience and purpose. Completing the Seven Summits is not just a personal milestone, but a message that recovery and determination can take you to the highest places on Earth.”

After the summit, he safely descended to the high camp at an altitude of approximately 5,247 meters, where the team regrouped. In his message, he added, “We just reached camp and are ready to enjoy tea being prepared by our leader Sewang. Please inform near and dear.”

With this successful ascent, Dr. Rajashekhar has officially completed the Seven Summits challenge, placing him among a select group of mountaineers worldwide who have stood atop the highest peak on every continent and becoming the first doctor from South India to achieve this milestone.

Beyond mountaineering, Dr. Rajashekhar draws immense strength from his close-knit joint family. He lives with his parents, brother, extended family members and grandmother. He and his wife, Dr. Haripriya, a specialist in Infectious Diseases, have a nine-year-old son. He takes great pride in his family, which has been a constant source of support throughout his journey.

Reacting to the achievement, Dr. Haripriya said, “This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From battling a serious illness to standing on the highest peaks in the world, his determination has inspired all of us. As a family, we are incredibly proud of his resilience, discipline and courage. This achievement belongs not just to him, but to everyone who stood by him through every challenge.”

For  the orthopedician-turned-mountaineer, the climb represents the final step in a journey that began with recovery from serious illness and evolved into one of the most demanding goals in global mountaineering—a remarkable story of resilience, determination and triumph.

 

 

New Delhi, June 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to release financial assistance of ₹18,880 crore under the PM-KISAN scheme, directly benefitting approximately 9.44 crore farmers across the country.

The latest installment under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi initiative underscores the government’s continued commitment to supporting farmers’ income and strengthening rural economic stability through direct benefit transfers.

The scheme provides eligible farmers with periodic financial assistance to help meet agricultural input costs and household needs, contributing to improved financial security in rural India.

Officials noted that the timely disbursement of funds is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted support to farmers ahead of the upcoming agricultural cycle, helping them manage expenses related to seeds, fertilizers, and other essential inputs.

The PM-KISAN program remains one of the largest direct income support schemes in the world, playing a key role in enhancing rural livelihoods and promoting inclusive growth in the agriculture sector.

The release is expected to further reinforce the government’s focus on farmer welfare and sustainable agricultural development.

June 18: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory to all food businesses across the country, instructing them to ensure the use of corrosion-free, food-grade knives and blades in all food handling and packaging operations.

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The regulator has emphasized that tools used in food preparation must be safe, hygienic, and free from rust or corrosion, as deteriorated equipment can increase the risk of food contamination and compromise consumer health.

FSSAI has directed food business operators to regularly inspect kitchen tools and replace any damaged or unsafe equipment without delay. The advisory is aimed at strengthening hygiene standards and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations across restaurants, food processing units, and other food service establishments.

The move is part of ongoing efforts by the food safety authority to improve public health protection and reinforce safe food handling practices nationwide.

New Delhi, June 18: Indian javelin sensation Neeraj Chopra is set to return to Diamond League action, confirming his participation in the season opener after finalizing his decision a week ago.

The Olympic and world champion expressed his readiness to compete against some of the world’s leading athletes as he begins another important season on the international athletics circuit. His return marks a significant moment for Indian athletics fans, who will be closely following his performance in the prestigious competition series.

Chopra’s participation in the season opener is expected to provide valuable competitive exposure as he builds momentum for major global events scheduled later in the year. Known for his consistency and ability to perform on the biggest stages, he remains one of the most prominent figures in international javelin throw.

The Diamond League serves as a key platform for elite track and field athletes, offering high-level competition and an opportunity to gauge form against world-class opponents. Chopra’s return is anticipated to generate considerable interest among athletics enthusiasts both in India and abroad.

As he embarks on the new season, expectations remain high for the Indian star, whose achievements have played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of athletics across the country.

Mumbai, June 18:Tata Motors has announced a price increase of up to 2.5% across its commercial vehicle range, effective from July, as the company seeks to partially offset rising input and operational costs.

The price revision will apply across various commercial vehicle models and variants, with the exact increase varying depending on the product category and specifications. The company said the adjustment is necessary to address continued cost pressures impacting the automotive manufacturing sector.

Tata Motors remains focused on delivering innovative and reliable mobility solutions while maintaining operational efficiency and product quality. The company emphasized that the price increase is a measured step aimed at balancing business sustainability with customer value.

The announcement comes amid broader industry efforts to manage fluctuations in raw material prices, supply chain expenses, and other operational costs. Despite these challenges, demand for commercial vehicles continues to be supported by infrastructure development, logistics expansion, and economic activity across key sectors.

Customers planning vehicle purchases are advised to check with authorized dealerships for updated pricing and model-specific details before the revised rates take effect in July.

Gujarat, June 18: Gujarat’s rapidly expanding metro rail network is transforming urban mobility, providing residents with faster, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable transportation options across the state’s major cities.

The ongoing expansion of metro services is improving connectivity between key residential, business, educational, and industrial districts, significantly reducing travel times and easing pressure on congested road networks. As urban populations continue to grow, metro infrastructure is emerging as a critical component of Gujarat’s long-term transportation strategy.

The enhanced metro network is not only improving daily commuting experiences but also contributing to reduced vehicular emissions and greater urban sustainability. Modern stations, improved accessibility, and seamless integration with other modes of transport are helping make public transit more convenient and attractive for citizens.

State authorities have emphasized that continued investment in metro infrastructure will support economic growth, promote sustainable urban development, and strengthen connectivity across rapidly expanding metropolitan regions.

With new routes and extensions being added, Gujarat’s metro systems are playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of urban transportation, delivering faster, safer, and more reliable journeys for millions of commuters.

New Delhi, June 18: President Droupadi Murmu lauded India’s tribal communities for their deep-rooted connection with nature and their commitment to preserving human values, emphasizing their vital role in promoting sustainable living and cultural heritage.

Speaking at a recent event, the President highlighted that tribal societies have long demonstrated a balanced and respectful relationship with the environment, offering valuable lessons in conservation, community living, and responsible resource use.

President Murmu noted that tribal traditions embody principles of coexistence, mutual respect, and social harmony, which remain highly relevant in today’s rapidly changing world. She emphasized that their indigenous knowledge systems and cultural practices contribute significantly to environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation.

The President also underscored the importance of empowering tribal communities through education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and inclusive development initiatives while preserving their unique cultural identities.

Calling tribal communities an integral part of India’s social and cultural fabric, President Murmu urged society to recognize and learn from their sustainable way of life and enduring human values.

The remarks reaffirm the government’s commitment to the welfare, empowerment, and holistic development of tribal populations while celebrating their contributions to the nation’s heritage and environmental sustainability.

New Delhi, June 18: The Government of India has officially ratified an annual interest rate of 8.25% on Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits for FY2025-26, paving the way for the interest amount to be credited to the accounts of more than 7 crore EPF subscribers across the country.

The approval follows recommendations by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and ensures continued attractive returns for millions of salaried employees contributing to the retirement savings scheme.

With the ratification now in place, EPFO is expected to initiate the process of crediting the approved interest to members’ accounts in the coming weeks. The move reinforces the government’s commitment to safeguarding the long-term financial security of India’s workforce.

The EPF scheme remains one of the country’s most widely used retirement savings instruments, offering stable and tax-efficient returns to subscribers. The 8.25% rate maintains EPF’s position as a competitive savings avenue amid evolving market conditions.

Industry observers note that the timely crediting of interest will benefit millions of workers by enhancing their retirement corpus and strengthening confidence in India’s social security framework.

New Delhi, June 18: India’s commercial energy storage sector is poised for exponential growth, with deployments projected to increase by more than 30 times by 2032, signaling a major shift in the country’s energy infrastructure landscape.

The rapid scale-up is being driven by the accelerating integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which require advanced storage systems to ensure grid stability and reliable power supply. As India continues its transition toward a low-carbon energy ecosystem, commercial and utility-scale battery storage is expected to play a central role.

Industry analysts suggest that falling battery costs, supportive government policies, and increasing investments in clean energy infrastructure are collectively fueling this growth trajectory. The expansion is also closely tied to rising electricity demand, electrification of transport, and the need for peak load management across industrial and commercial sectors.

By 2032, commercial energy storage systems are expected to become a foundational pillar of India’s power sector, enabling greater flexibility, efficiency, and resilience in the national grid.

Experts note that this growth represents not just an infrastructure upgrade but a structural transformation of how energy is generated, stored, and consumed in India.