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  • Hockey India Announces Junior Women’s Squad for UK Exposure Tour

    New Delhi, June 24: Hockey India has announced the junior women’s national squad for an upcoming tour of the United Kingdom, aimed at providing valuable international exposure and strengthening the country’s long-term player development pipeline.

    The selected squad comprises a blend of promising young players who have impressed in recent domestic tournaments and national coaching camps. The selection reflects the focus on identifying talent capable of transitioning to higher levels of international competition.

    The UK tour is designed as a key developmental assignment, giving players the opportunity to experience different playing styles, faster game tempo and more physically demanding match conditions commonly seen in European hockey.

    Team officials said the tour will also serve as an important assessment platform for the coaching staff, helping evaluate player performance, adaptability and decision-making under pressure. It is expected to play a crucial role in shaping future selections for senior national duties.

    During the tour, the junior women’s team will play a series of practice and competitive matches against local clubs and representative sides in the UK. These fixtures are intended to improve tactical discipline, teamwork and on-field coordination.

    The exposure trip is part of Hockey India’s broader strategy to strengthen grassroots development and build a strong talent pipeline for future international competitions, including major global tournaments.

    The team is scheduled to depart in the coming days, with preparations focused on fitness, skill refinement and match readiness ahead of the overseas challenge.

  • Account Aggregator Adoption Accelerates Financial Inclusion

    June 24: India’s Account Aggregator (AA) ecosystem facilitated nearly 3.8 crore financial services in FY26, reflecting growing adoption of digital consent-based data sharing across the financial sector.

    The framework enables secure exchange of financial information between institutions, helping banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and fintech firms streamline lending, improve credit assessment and simplify customer onboarding.

    Industry experts say the rising usage of the AA system highlights India’s shift toward a more integrated and digital financial infrastructure, where data access is faster, safer and driven by user consent.

    The ecosystem is also playing an important role in expanding financial inclusion by improving credit availability for individuals and small businesses, especially those with limited or informal credit histories.

    With increasing participation from financial institutions and technology platforms, the Account Aggregator network is expected to scale further, supporting more efficient and transparent financial services in the coming years.

    Experts believe the continued expansion of digital public infrastructure such as the AA framework will strengthen India’s financial ecosystem and enhance access to credit across the economy.

  • India Emerges as Global Generics Powerhouse, Says Expert

    June 24: India’s strong position in global pharmaceutical markets, particularly its approximately 20 per cent share in global generic drug exports, provides a solid foundation for sustained industry growth, according to industry experts.

    Experts note that this leadership in generics reflects India’s robust manufacturing ecosystem, cost competitiveness and deep expertise in producing high-quality, affordable medicines for global markets.

    The country’s pharmaceutical sector continues to play a critical role in global healthcare supply chains, supplying essential medicines to both developed and emerging economies. This has strengthened India’s reputation as a “pharmacy of the world.”

    Analysts believe the sector’s growth potential remains strong, supported by rising global demand for affordable healthcare solutions, expanding export opportunities and continued investments in research, development and manufacturing capacity.

    India’s established regulatory compliance standards and large-scale production capabilities are also seen as key factors enabling sustained export growth in the generics segment.

    With increasing focus on self-reliance and value-added pharmaceutical production, the industry is expected to further expand its global footprint in the coming years, strengthening India’s position in the international pharmaceutical market.

  • Hotel Owner Murder Case: Accused Injured in Police Encounter in Puri

    Puri, June 24 (UDN): In a major development in the hotel owner murder case, the prime accused sustained injuries during a police encounter in Puri on Wednesday morning, officials said.

    Hotel Owner Murder Case: Accused Injured in Police Encounter in Puri

    The accused, identified as Chandan Palar, was allegedly involved in the killing of a hotel owner in the coastal town. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a team of Baliapanda Police launched an operation to trace and apprehend him.

    According to police sources, during the operation, the accused allegedly attempted to escape custody, prompting police to open fire in self-defence. In the incident, a bullet reportedly struck his left leg, leaving him injured. He was immediately overpowered by the police team and taken into custody.

    The injured accused was rushed to Puri District Headquarters Hospital for medical treatment under tight security.

    Police have intensified investigation into the murder case and are probing the motive behind the crime as well as possible involvement of other individuals.

    Senior police officials visited the spot and reviewed the situation, while security has been tightened in the area to maintain law and order.

    Further investigation is underway, and more details are awaited.

  • Entertainment Industry Shines at Padma Awards 2026

    June 24: The Padma Awards 2026, one of India’s highest civilian honours, recognised leading figures from the entertainment industry for their outstanding contributions to cinema, music and television.

    Announced on the eve of Republic Day and presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the awards this year honoured 131 personalities across fields including art, literature, education, sports, medicine, science, public affairs and social service.

    In the entertainment category, several celebrated names from Indian cinema and music were recognised for their enduring impact on the country’s cultural landscape.

    Veteran actor Dharmendra was honoured posthumously with the Padma Vibhushan for his contribution to Indian cinema. The award was received by his wife, Hema Malini, during the Civil Investiture Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

    Actor and comedian Satish Shah was also honoured posthumously with the Padma Shri, recognising his memorable work in films and television that left a lasting mark on Indian entertainment.

    Malayalam cinema icon Mammootty was conferred the Padma Bhushan for his exceptional contribution to Indian cinema spanning more than four decades and a wide body of acclaimed work.

    Renowned playback singer Alka Yagnik also received the Padma Bhushan, acknowledging her distinguished musical career and enduring popularity across multiple languages.

    Actor, filmmaker and television personality R. Madhavan was awarded the Padma Shri for his versatile contribution to Indian cinema across Hindi, Tamil and other industries.

    The 2026 Padma Awards highlighted the continued global influence of Indian entertainment, celebrating artists whose work has shaped and inspired generations of audiences.

  • Tripura Opens First Public EV Charging Station, Expands Clean Mobility Push

    Agartala, June 24: Tripura has launched its first public electric vehicle (EV) charging station, marking a key step in the state’s efforts to strengthen clean mobility infrastructure and support the growing adoption of electric vehicles.

    The newly inaugurated facility is expected to provide convenient charging access for EV users and encourage wider use of electric transport across the state. It also signals the beginning of a broader infrastructure rollout aimed at building a more sustainable transport ecosystem.

    As part of its long-term plan, the state has proposed setting up 94 additional EV charging stations at strategic locations. The expansion is aimed at improving accessibility, reducing range anxiety among EV users and supporting the transition towards greener transportation.

    Officials said the initiative aligns with broader national objectives to promote electric mobility, reduce carbon emissions and increase the share of clean energy in the transport sector.

    With the rollout of additional charging infrastructure, Tripura is expected to gradually build a supportive ecosystem for EV adoption, particularly in urban centres and key transit routes.

    The move is seen as an important milestone in the state’s clean energy transition journey.

  • Vizhinjam Seaport Handles 1,000 Ships, Signals Strong Operational Ramp-Up

    Vizhinjam, June 24: Adani Vizhinjam International Seaport has crossed a key milestone by handling 1,000 vessels, reflecting the rapid scale-up of India’s first deep-water transshipment port.

    The achievement comes shortly after the port’s initial operations began, underscoring its fast ramp-up in cargo handling and increasing integration into global shipping routes.

    Developed and operated by the Adani Group, the port is positioned as a strategic maritime gateway aimed at reducing India’s dependence on overseas transshipment hubs and strengthening the country’s presence in international trade logistics.

    The growing vessel traffic highlights rising confidence among global shipping lines and improved operational efficiency at the facility. With its deep draft and proximity to major sea routes, Vizhinjam is steadily emerging as a key node in India’s maritime infrastructure network.

    Officials noted that the milestone reflects the port’s accelerating role in improving container movement, reducing logistics turnaround time and enhancing coastal and international trade connectivity.

    The development marks a significant step in India’s efforts to build world-class port infrastructure and strengthen its position in global shipping and logistics.

  • India’s Trade Climbs to Dollar 1.84 Trillion in FY26, Reflecting Steady Economic Growth

    New Delhi, June 24: India’s total trade increased 5.4 per cent to reach $1.84 trillion in FY26, according to NITI Aayog, highlighting steady momentum in the country’s external sector.

    The rise in trade was supported by stronger performance in both goods and services, driven by improving export competitiveness, resilient domestic demand and expanding global linkages.

    Officials noted that India’s trade growth reflects continued progress in strengthening supply chains, improving logistics infrastructure and advancing policy reforms aimed at enhancing ease of doing business.

    Despite a challenging global environment marked by uncertain demand conditions and shifting trade dynamics, India maintained stable growth in its external sector, supported by diversification of export markets and ongoing economic reforms.

    The latest figures underline India’s growing role in global trade and its efforts to position itself as a key hub for manufacturing and services exports.

    Going ahead, policymakers expect continued support from infrastructure upgrades, digital adoption and production-linked initiatives to further strengthen India’s trade performance.

  • Adani Highlights Growth, Investment and Future Vision

    Ahmedabad, June 24: Adani Group made a record investment of more than Rs 1.5 lakh crore in hard infrastructure during FY26, reinforcing its position as one of India’s largest private-sector investors and underscoring its long-term commitment to nation-building.

    Addressing stakeholders, Chairman Gautam Adani said the Group’s consolidated portfolio revenue reached Rs 2.92 lakh crore in FY26, reflecting the scale and resilience of its diversified businesses spanning energy, transport, logistics, utilities and digital infrastructure.

    Highlighting the company’s roadmap for the future, Adani outlined three foundational principles that will guide the organisation over the next decade. These include strengthening operational excellence, fostering innovation-led growth and building future-ready businesses capable of creating long-term value for stakeholders.

    Adani emphasised that infrastructure and intelligence will be the two defining pillars shaping India’s rise as a leading global power. He noted that world-class physical infrastructure, combined with advancements in technology, artificial intelligence and data-driven capabilities, will play a critical role in accelerating economic growth and enhancing national competitiveness.

    The record capital expenditure undertaken during FY26 reflects the Group’s focus on expanding strategic assets across ports, airports, renewable energy, transmission networks, logistics and other core sectors that support India’s development ambitions.

    According to the Chairman, India is entering a transformative phase where investments in infrastructure, digital capabilities and innovation ecosystems will determine the pace of progress. Businesses that combine scale with technology-driven intelligence are expected to play a central role in this journey.

    As the Group looks ahead, it remains focused on building globally competitive businesses while contributing to India’s aspiration of becoming a major economic and technological powerhouse in the coming decades.

  • Growing Middle Class and Innovation Drive India’s Market Potential: Aker BioMarine

    June 24: India’s growing middle class, large consumer base and swift adoption of innovation and technology are positioning the country as one of the most attractive long-term growth markets globally, according to Aker BioMarine Chief Executive Officer Matts Johansen.

    Speaking on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as the Summer Davos, Johansen said India continues to offer significant opportunities for businesses seeking sustainable growth.

    He noted that the combination of a large population, rising consumer spending and openness to new technologies creates a strong foundation for continued economic expansion. According to Johansen, these factors are likely to support long-term demand across a wide range of industries.

    Reflecting the company’s confidence in the Indian market, Aker BioMarine is expanding its local presence and is in the process of establishing an office in Mumbai. The Norwegian biotechnology company has been active in India for several years, supplying ingredients to the country’s shrimp farming industry, one of the largest aquaculture markets in the world.

    Beyond aquaculture, the company plans to deepen its engagement with India by providing ingredients for food products and human health supplements, aligning with growing consumer demand for nutrition and wellness products.

    Johansen also highlighted the transformative role of artificial intelligence in driving productivity and operational efficiency. He said AI is expected to play an increasingly important role across manufacturing, sales, marketing and finance functions, helping businesses improve performance and unlock new growth opportunities.

    As companies worldwide accelerate their adoption of emerging technologies, India’s innovation-driven ecosystem and expanding consumer market are expected to remain key attractions for global investors and multinational businesses.

    The Summer Davos meeting, being held in Dalian, China, has brought together leaders from business, government, academia and international organisations to discuss innovation, entrepreneurship and the future of economic development.