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  • Orbital sets date for first test mission to put AI data centers in low Earth orbit

    Orbital is building and operating AI data centers in space, using solar power and radiative cooling to remove the energy and cooling constraints that limit terrestrial AI infrastructure. Backed by funding from a16z Speedrun, the company plans to launch its first test mission in 2027 and is opening Factory-1, its R&D facility in Los Angeles.

    Los Angeles, California – Apr 15; The demand for AI compute is surging, but the bottleneck is no longer chips, it’s the power required to run them. Orbital was founded on the belief that the only way to scale compute and unlock future progress on artificial intelligence is to stop competing for power on Earth and generate it in orbit.

    Today, the company announced funding from a16z Speedrun to support Orbital-1, the company’s first test mission on its aim of deploying data centers in space. “Speedrun backs founders to explore ambitious ideas — the harder the problem, the better,” said Andrew Chen, General Partner, a16z speedrun. “Orbital is taking on AI‘s biggest constraint with a bold and radical idea.”

    Orbital is designing and manufacturing a constellation of satellites to operate in low Earth orbit, each housing a cluster of NVIDIA-powered servers. Each satellite is powered by solar arrays and cooled by radiating heat directly into space. In orbit, solar power is available 24/7 in sun-synchronous orbit and stronger, with no weather, no night, and no dependence on the power grid. 

    “AI progress is being constrained by the grid,” said Euwyn Poon, CEO and founder of Orbital. “Data center economics are dominated by electricity and cooling, and both are getting harder. In orbit, solar power is continuous and cooling is fundamentally different. Orbital is building compute infrastructure that removes the energy ceiling and scales with AI‘s potential.”

    Orbital‘s compute infrastructure is designed around a specific technical insight. Training large AI models requires thousands of GPUs tightly coupled, communicating at near-zero latency. That architecture does not translate to satellites. Inference is different. Each request is handled independently, and capacity can be distributed across many nodes. Orbital is focused on inference, where orbital compute can scale as a constellation and serve workloads in parallel.

    Orbital‘s first satellite, Orbital-1, is scheduled to launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 in April 2027. Its primary goal is to validate sustained GPU operation in orbit, test radiation hardening, and run AI inference workloads commercially in space post-validation. The company is also in the process of filing with the FCC to deploy a constellation of satellites for orbital AI compute infrastructure.

    Orbital was founded by Euwyn Poon, a Cornell-educated engineer and lawyer who previously founded Spin, the micromobility company acquired by Ford. At Spin, Poon built and deployed hundreds of thousands of small electric vehicles across 100 cities and scaled the business to over $100 million in revenue. After exiting Spin, he began investing in AI infrastructure and saw the impending constraint clearly. “The energy ceiling on AI isn’t theoretical, it’s a real constraint that will impede the advancement of intelligence,” said Poon. “This is the solution.”

  • IHCL Announces Signing Of Vivanta At Bhogapuram International Airport, Andhra Pradesh

    Chandigarh, Apr 15: The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the signing of a Vivanta hotel at Bhogapuram International Airport in Andhra Pradesh. This is a greenfield hotel project. 

    Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL said, “Bhogapuram International Airport in Vizianagaram is set to become a key aviation hub, fueling growth along the Visakhapatnam–Bheemili–Bhogapuram corridor. Backed by strong infrastructure and government-led tourism initiatives, the region offers significant potential, and the hotel’s strategic location will cater to corporate, MICE and transit demand.” 

    Strategically located adjacent to the terminal building, the 165-key Vivanta Bhogapuram International Airport will offer convenient access for travellers. The hotel will feature Mynt, an all-day dining restaurant, Wink, a bar and Swirl, a deli. Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool and a fully equipped gym, complemented by a banqueting space spanning over 4,000 sq. ft., catering to both business and social events. 

    The upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport in Vizianagaram will serve as a major hub for North Andhra, driving tourism and business growth along the East Coast. 

    With the addition of this hotel, IHCL will have 9 hotels in Andhra Pradesh, including 4 under development.

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  • Noor Ahmad Stars as CSK Beat KKR by 32 Runs; Focus Shifts to RCB vs LSG Clash

    Chennai registers second consecutive win, defeating Kolkata by 32 runs. Bengaluru: IPL 23rd league match today between Bengaluru and Lucknow.

    Chennai, Apr 15: Chennai Super Kings secured their second consecutive victory in IPL 2026 with a commanding 32-run win over Kolkata Knight Riders at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

    Batting first after being asked to field, Chennai posted 192/5, with key contributions from Sanju Samson (48) and Dewald Brevis (41) setting up a strong total.

    In response, Kolkata Knight Riders were bowled out for 160/7, falling short despite brief resistance from their middle order. The innings was anchored by Rovman Powell (31*), while Ramandeep Singh (35) offered support, but the required run rate continued to climb.

    Left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad delivered a match-winning spell of 3/21, removing key batters including Ajinkya Rahane (28) and Cameron Green (0) in successive deliveries, effectively breaking Kolkata’s chase. He was named Player of the Match for his decisive impact.

    With this result, Chennai Super Kings registered their second straight win after a difficult start to the season, while Kolkata Knight Riders remain winless after five matches and sit at the bottom of the points table with one point from a washed-out fixture.

    The Chennai Super Kings are still awaiting the return of MS Dhoni, who is recovering from a calf injury and has not featured in the tournament so far.

    Focus shifts to Match 23: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Lucknow Super Giants

    Attention now turns to Match 23 of IPL 2026, where Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Lucknow Super Giants at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, with the match scheduled for 7:30 PM IST.

    Both teams enter the contest with important points on the line as the tournament progresses into a crucial phase. Bengaluru will aim to capitalize on home conditions, while Lucknow will look to continue their consistent run and strengthen their position in the standings.

    The encounter is expected to deliver a high-intensity battle featuring key players from both sides in what promises to be a closely contested match.

  • Aakash Aath To Present A Poila Boishakh Special Musical Celebration In The Show ‘Aakashe Superstar’

     

    Kolkata Apr 15: Aakash Aath, one of the popular General Entertainment Channel (GEC) of Bengal is going to telecast a Poila Boishakh special episode in their known music reality show Aakashe Superstar. Renowned Bengali singer Raghab Chatterjee, hosted by Sujoyneel Bandyopadhyay along with the budding young singers will enthral the audience with impressive melodious songs celebrating the joyous spirit of Bengal, its people and their rich heritage.

    The episode will present a vibrant blend of music, culture and entertainment to mark the pious occasion of Bengali New Year. It will highlight the cultural significance of the day while bringing together artists, performers and audiences in a festive environment reflecting the warmth and traditions of Bengal and its widely celebrated culture.

    “The auspicious occasion of Poila Boishakh is the beginning of a new year filled with hope, positivity and cultural pride for the Bengalis everywhere. Through this special episode of Aakashe Superstar, we wanted to celebrate the spirit of the festival through music and meaningful performances. It was wonderful to see such enthusiasm from the contestants and the entire team. Having Raghab Chatterjee join the celebration made the episode even more memorable and special for all of us,” said Priyanka Bardia, Director Aakash Aath.

    Aakash Aath

    “It was a wonderful experience to be part of the Poila Boishakh special episode of Aakashe Superstar. The festival represents new beginnings and celebrating it through music makes it even more meaningful. I truly enjoyed listening to the contestants and witnessing their passion for singing. Shows like this provide a great platform for emerging talent to express themselves and grow. I am glad to have shared this special celebration with the contestants, the host and the entire team,” said singer, Raghab Chatterjee.

    The show has consistently provided aspiring singers with an opportunity to perform on a recognised platform while receiving guidance and encouragement from experienced mentors from the music industry. Over the seasons, it has built a loyal audience base through its engaging format and heartfelt performances.

    The Poila Boishakh special episode added a festive touch to the show by blending traditional Bengali musical influences with contemporary performances. The set reflected the celebratory spirit of the Bengali New Year, coming alive with enthusiastic performances, vibrant décor and an atmosphere that captured the joy and cultural essence of the occasion.

    Aakash Aath airs Aakashe Superstar, on every Monday to Sunday from 2:00 PM.

    The Poila Baisakh special episode of Aakashe Superstar is going to be telecasted on 15th April, 2026 from 2:00 PM.

     

     

  • Pharma Summit Highlights Need for Speed, Investment and Collaboration

    New Delhi, April 15 (BNP) – The two-day India Pharma 2026 summit concluded with a strong call for increased funding, improved infrastructure and faster execution to drive innovation in India’s pharmaceutical sector.

    Organised by the Department of Pharmaceuticals in partnership with industry bodies, the event brought together over 800 delegates and more than 60 speakers across 10 sessions to discuss the future of India’s pharma and biopharma ecosystem.

    Pharma Summit Highlights Need for Speed, Investment and Collaboration

    Discussions on the second day focused on building a robust financing ecosystem, with stakeholders highlighting the need for diverse funding sources such as venture capital, private equity and public-private partnerships to support high-risk, long-cycle research and development.

    In the valedictory session, officials emphasised three key enablers for future growth—funding, infrastructure and speed—stressing that coordinated action between government, industry and academia will be critical for global competitiveness.

    Industry leaders also called for a shift from volume-driven growth to innovation-led development, focusing on advanced therapeutics and cutting-edge research. The discussions underscored the importance of stronger collaboration, improved market access and sustained investment in R&D.

    Participants noted that while India has built a strong base in generics and vaccines, the next phase will depend on its ability to scale innovation and position itself as a global leader in new drug development.

  • Govt Tightens Rules on Overloaded Vehicles, Revises Highway Fees

    New Delhi, April 15 (BNP) – The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has notified amendments to the National Highways fee rules, introducing a revised framework to regulate and penalise overloaded vehicles.

    The National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Fourth Amendment Rules, 2026 will come into effect from April 15.

    Under the revised norms, vehicles carrying up to 10% excess load will not be charged an additional fee. However, those overloaded between 10% and 40% will pay twice the base toll, while vehicles exceeding 40% over the permissible Gross Vehicle Weight will be charged four times the base rate.

    The ministry said the changes aim to improve compliance with load limits, enhance road safety and reduce damage to highway infrastructure.

    Overloading will be assessed using certified weighment systems installed at toll plazas, and no overload fee will be levied where such facilities are unavailable. The rules also mandate digital payment of overload charges through FASTag and require reporting of violations to the VAHAN national vehicle database.

    Additionally, vehicles without valid FASTag will attract penalties under existing provisions.

    The amended rules will not automatically apply to certain older private concession projects unless operators agree to adopt them.

    Officials said the move is expected to streamline enforcement, promote fair fee collection and ensure safer, more efficient freight movement on national highways.

  • Govt Assures Fuel Supply Stability Amid West Asia Crisis

    New Delhi, April 15 (BNP) – The government on Tuesday said fuel supplies remain stable despite disruptions linked to the evolving West Asia situation, urging citizens to avoid panic buying and rely on official updates.

    According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG, with 100% supply being maintained for domestic LPG, PNG and CNG. Measures have been taken to prioritise essential sectors, including hospitals and agriculture, while ensuring continued availability for households.

    To ease pressure on LPG demand, the government is promoting alternative fuels such as PNG, kerosene and electric cooking options. Since March 2026, about 4.40 lakh PNG connections have been activated, with another 4.88 lakh consumers registering for new connections.

    The government has also stepped up enforcement against hoarding and black marketing. Over 2,950 raids were conducted across the country on April 13, with penalties imposed on erring distributors and several licences suspended.

    Officials said more than 14.3 lakh 5-kg LPG cylinders have been sold since March 23 to support migrant workers and vulnerable groups, while commercial LPG supply has been increased to around 70% of pre-crisis levels.

    States and Union Territories have been asked to closely monitor supply and take action under the Essential Commodities Act to prevent shortages and misinformation. Control rooms and district-level monitoring systems have been activated nationwide.

    Meanwhile, the government said all refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude stocks, and retail fuel outlets are functioning normally. Port operations across India also remain unaffected, with no congestion reported.

    The Centre added that it is closely monitoring developments in the region while coordinating with states and international partners to ensure energy security and the safety of Indian nationals abroad.

  • Meghwal Leads Plantation Drive, Shramdaan Under Swachhta Pakhwada

    New Delhi, April 15, (BNP): Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, on Tuesday led a plantation drive and Shramdaan at Windsor Place Roundabout, NDMC Park, Janpath in New Delhi as part of the ongoing Swachhta Pakhwada.

    The minister planted a sapling and urged citizens to actively contribute to increasing green cover, highlighting the government’s focus on cleanliness and environmental sustainability. The event saw participation from officials of the Department of Legal Affairs, including Law Secretary Rajiv Mani.

    Meghwal Leads Plantation Drive, Shramdaan Under Swachhta Pakhwada

     Addressing the gathering, Meghwal invoked the ideals of B. R. Ambedkar, emphasising the values of equality, liberty and fraternity, and also referred to the teachings of Kabir to stress the importance of environmental responsibility.

    He also participated in cleanliness activities within the परिसर, promoting the idea of “Swabhav Swachhata – Sanskar Swachhata.”

    The initiative forms part of the broader Swachh Bharat Mission, aimed at improving sanitation, reducing environmental degradation and encouraging sustainable practices.

    Officials highlighted that maintaining clean and hygienic workplaces enhances productivity and contributes to a positive environment, aligning with the vision of a developed India.

  • NFDC to Release Malayalam Film Achappa’s Album Nationwide on April 24

    New Delhi, April 15, (BNP): The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) has announced the nationwide release of its Malayalam feature film Achappa’s Album (Grampa’s Album) on April 24, 2026.

    Blending family fantasy, comedy and emotion, the film centres on a time-travel narrative in which a father and son unexpectedly begin living each other’s lives, offering a humorous and poignant look at generational perspectives.

    Directed by Deepti Pillay Sivan and written by Sanjeev Sivan, Anirban Bhattacharya and Umesh Nair, the film explores themes of memory, relationships and life choices.

    The cast includes Mohan Agashe, along with Anjana Appukuttan, Aadinath Kothare, Priyanka Nair and Sidhanshu Sanjeev Sivan.

    The film’s technical team features cinematographer Manoj Pillai, editor Sreekar Prasad and music composer Gulraj Singh.

    Director Deepti Pillay Sivan said the film uses a simple but engaging time-travel concept to explore deep human relationships, while NFDC Managing Director Prakash Magdum noted that the project reflects the organisation’s commitment to supporting unique voices in Indian cinema.

    The teaser for the film has been released on NFDC’s social media platforms, with the official trailer expected soon.

  • Scindia Inaugurates Philatelic Exhibition at Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya

    New Delhi, April 15 (BNP): Union Minister for Communications, Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, on Tuesday inaugurated a philatelic exhibition at the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, celebrating India’s heritage through postage stamps.

    The exhibition, titled “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat: Celebrating India’s Unity & Democracy through Postage Stamps”, is being organised by the Department of Posts from April 14 to 17, 2026.

    The curated showcase features stamps highlighting India’s cultural legacy, freedom movement, and contributions of Presidents, Prime Ministers and freedom fighters. The minister interacted with philatelists and designers, appreciating their role in preserving postal heritage.

    Speaking at the event, Scindia said the Department of Posts continues to play a key role in nation-building and will expand collaborations to promote India’s legacy through similar exhibitions across the country.

    On the occasion, special sets of picture postcards were released to mark the museum’s fourth foundation day, the birth anniversary of B. R. Ambedkar, and the Constitution of India.

    A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed between the Department of Posts and the Sangrahalaya to enhance cooperation through exhibitions, outreach programmes and co-branded philatelic products. The partnership will also explore setting up a dedicated India Post counter at the museum.

    During his visit, the minister also toured the gallery on Narendra Modi, showcasing his life and key initiatives.