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  • Dr. Hemant Barua Receives Rastriya Ratan Samman for Work in Vedic Astrology

    New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): Dr. Hemant Barua has been honoured with the prestigious Rastriya Ratan Samman in recognition of his contributions to research and practice in Vedic astrology.

    The award ceremony was held on April 25 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, where eminent personalities from various fields gathered to celebrate achievements across specialised domains.

    The honour was presented by actress and Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut at an event organised by VKonnet Star, which recognised individuals for excellence in knowledge-based and cultural fields.

    Dr. Barua was acknowledged for his extensive work in modern Vedic astrology, including research efforts aimed at making traditional astrological knowledge more structured and relevant for contemporary audiences. Organisers highlighted his contribution in promoting wider understanding and engagement with the discipline.

    The recognition reflects the continued prominence of traditional knowledge systems in India and their evolving role alongside modern academic and analytical frameworks.

  • DPI 2.0 to Help Offset Energy Shocks: CEA Nageswaran

    New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): India can mitigate the economic impact of energy disruptions in West Asia by enhancing productivity and competitiveness through the next phase of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI 2.0), Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran said on Tuesday.

    He made the remarks while addressing the launch of the DPI 2047 Roadmap Report prepared by NITI Aayog and the Frontier Technology Hub in New Delhi.

    Energy Shocks and Economic Impact

    Nageswaran said global energy volatility, particularly disruptions in West Asia, has highlighted India’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. He noted that such shocks can increase inflationary pressures and affect vulnerable groups including small farmers, micro enterprises, and daily wage workers.

    He added that India’s high energy demand and exposure to global supply chain risks make economic resilience a key policy priority.

    Shift Towards Productivity-Driven Digital Infrastructure

    According to him, DPI 2.0 marks a shift from a welfare-oriented digital ecosystem to a productivity-focused framework designed to strengthen economic performance.

    He said the aim is to improve overall productivity, reduce inefficiencies, and support broader macroeconomic goals, including long-term growth and resilience.

    Key Focus Areas Under DPI 2047

    The roadmap outlines sectoral transformation across:

    • MSMEs
    • Agriculture
    • Education and healthcare
    • Credit and financial access
    • Energy systems
    • Social protection frameworks

    These initiatives aim to build integrated digital systems that reduce costs, improve access, and enhance efficiency across sectors.

    Implementation Plan

    The DPI 2047 roadmap proposes a phased rollout, starting with pilot projects in MSMEs and agriculture in 2026–27, followed by wider scaling across states and districts.

    Officials said the framework is designed to strengthen India’s digital economy and support its long-term goal of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047, while building resilience against global economic shocks.

  • Nearly 11,000 Odisha Consumers Get Zero Power Bills Under Rooftop Solar Scheme

    Bhubaneswar, Apr 28 (BNP): A growing number of households in Odisha are moving towards clean and self-reliant energy use, with nearly 11,000 consumers in western Odisha reporting zero electricity bills in March 2026 after adopting rooftop solar systems, officials said.

    Nearly 11,000 Odisha Consumers Get Zero Power Bills Under Rooftop Solar Scheme

    The development comes under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, which promotes installation of rooftop solar panels in residential households to reduce dependence on grid electricity and lower monthly power costs.

    According to officials, a total of 18,830 consumers in western Odisha had installed rooftop solar systems as of March 2026, reflecting a steady rise in adoption of renewable energy solutions across the region.

    The initiative is increasingly being seen as a major step toward sustainable and decentralised energy generation, allowing households to generate their own electricity and, in many cases, eliminate monthly power bills entirely.

    Shift Towards Energy Self-Reliance

    Power sector officials said the scheme is encouraging greater awareness about renewable energy, especially in semi-urban and rural areas where sunlight availability is high and rooftop installation is feasible.

    Apart from reducing electricity expenses, the adoption of solar systems is also helping reduce pressure on conventional power grids and supporting India’s broader clean energy transition goals.

    Experts noted that rooftop solar adoption is expected to grow further as installation costs reduce, subsidies continue, and financing options become more accessible for households.

    The government has been promoting the scheme to expand solar penetration at the household level, with an emphasis on long-term energy savings, environmental benefits, and energy security.

    Officials added that the trend in western Odisha highlights the potential for large-scale adoption of rooftop solar systems across the state, contributing to greener and more resilient energy infrastructure in the coming years.

     

  • India–New Zealand FTA Investment Commitment Signals Stronger Trade Ecosystem and MSME Growth: Vayana

    By- Kaushal Sampat, President, Vayana

    The USD 20 billion investment commitment under the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, one of India’s fastest concluded trade negotiations, shows a clear intent by both countries to deepen economic engagement and build long-term trade linkages. Its real impact, however, will depend on how effectively this capital is deployed on the ground. If directed towards supply chain ecosystems, trade infrastructure, and export-oriented sectors, it can help ease working capital constraints, improve liquidity across value chains, and enable greater participation of MSMEs in cross-border trade. Over time, this could contribute to more stable and predictable trade flows, while also strengthening the financial architecture that supports bilateral commerce. 

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  • Google Cloud AI Hub Launched in Visakhapatnam to Boost India’s AI Push

    Visakhapatnam, Apr 28 (BNP): Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the Google Cloud India AI Hub in Visakhapatnam on Monday, marking a major milestone in India’s expanding digital infrastructure ecosystem.

    Google Cloud AI Hub Launched in Visakhapatnam to Boost India’s AI Push

    The new facility, being developed by Google, is expected to strengthen artificial intelligence capabilities, cloud computing infrastructure, and data-driven innovation in the country.

    Speaking at the event, Vaishnaw highlighted India’s growing digital transformation journey and compared Visakhapatnam’s emerging role in AI to Hyderabad’s evolution into a global IT hub. He noted that just as Cyberabad became synonymous with India’s IT services growth, Visakhapatnam could evolve into a major AI centre in the future.

    He described the city’s development trajectory as a significant step toward building a strong “AI and data hub ecosystem” in India, supported by advanced infrastructure and global technology partnerships.

    Officials said the AI hub is expected to boost investment in high-end technology infrastructure, create new employment opportunities, and support innovation across sectors such as cloud services, artificial intelligence, and digital platforms.

    The initiative is also seen as part of India’s broader strategy to position itself as a global leader in emerging technologies and strengthen its digital economy under the vision of expanding AI-driven growth across major cities.

  • India and Gulf Air Connectivity Set to Improve as Airspace Conditions Stabilise: MEA

    New Delhi, Apr 28 (BNP): Flight operations between India and Gulf countries are expected to further normalise as airspace conditions across West Asia continue to improve, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Monday.

    India and Gulf Air Connectivity Set to Improve as Airspace Conditions Stabilise: MEA

    The MEA informed that airlines such as Air India and IndiGo are planning to resume services between India and Qatar in a phased manner. Qatar Airways has already restarted limited flights as Qatar’s airspace has partially reopened.

    Key Developments in the Region

    • Around 105 flights are expected between the UAE and India amid limited operations from Dubai and Abu Dhabi
    • Services continue from Saudi Arabia and Oman to India
    • Kuwait airspace has reopened; Jazeera Airways and Kuwait Airways have resumed limited India-bound flights
    • Bahrain operations remain active through Gulf Air
    • Iraq and Israel are operating limited regional services enabling onward travel to India

    Iran’s airspace remains partially restricted, with only cargo and charter operations permitted. Indian nationals have been advised to avoid travel to Iran and, if required, leave via land routes with embassy assistance.

    Indian Nationals Assisted

    Indian missions continue to actively support citizens in the region. So far, 2,445 Indian nationals have been evacuated from Iran through land borders.

    Since February 28, nearly 12.96 lakh passengers have travelled from the Gulf region to India.

    Indian embassies and consulates remain operational round the clock, providing helpline support, coordinating with local authorities, and issuing regular travel advisories to ensure the safety of Indian nationals abroad.

  • Tragedy in Mumbai: Four Family Members Dead After Dinner; Police Probe ‘Biryani-Watermelon’ Link

    Mumbai,Apr28 (BNP): In a tragic incident, four members of a family in South Mumbai’s Pydhonie area died after reportedly falling ill with vomiting and diarrhea following a meal at home. Police have registered an accidental death report and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    The deceased have been identified as Abdullah Dokadia (40), his wife Nasreen (35), and their daughters Aisha (16) and Zainab (13). The family was residing in the Mughal Building at Ghati Galli in the Pydhonie locality.

    According to preliminary information, the family allegedly consumed biryani followed by watermelon before their health suddenly deteriorated. They reportedly developed symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea soon afterwards.

    Police officials said food samples have been collected from the residence and sent for forensic examination to determine whether food contamination or any other factor caused the deaths. The bodies have also been sent for post-mortem examination.

    The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, while authorities await medical and forensic reports to establish the exact cause of death.


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  • Villa La Valencia Cabo Joins Preferrred Hotels Luxury Collection  

     

    (Cabo San Lucas Mexico, Apr 28) -Villa La Valencia Beach Resort & Spa has joined Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand, representing more than 620 hotels, resorts, residences, and hotel groups in 80 countries. With this addition, the resort becomes part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection, which brings together unique properties and memorable experiences with an authentic, dynamic, and personal approach, distinguished by its personalized service and culinary offerings that reflect the culture of each destination.

    Located on the golden sands of Los Cabos, Villa La Valencia Beach Resort & Spa offers a sophisticated beachfront experience designed for travelers seeking relaxation and reconnection. The resort features spacious suites overlooking the Sea of Cortez, designed for comfort, elegance, and ideal spaces for families, couples, and multigenerational trips. It also boasts Azul Spa, a wellness retreat with treatments focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.

    One of the resort’s main attractions is its impressive lazy river, the longest in Los Cabos, offering a unique aquatic experience. Its culinary offerings also stand out, with options such as the premium steakhouse “Latitude 23.5,” which offers high-quality cuts of meat in a sophisticated setting, and “La Taberna,” the Italian restaurant led by a chef originally from Italy, where traditional recipes are prepared using authentic techniques. As a testament to its commitment to excellence, the resort has maintained its AAA Four Diamond rating since 2024, renewed for 2026, and is currently nominated for the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

    “We are excited to continue strengthening our relationship with Villa Group, with whom we have collaborated for years, and which is now consolidated with the addition of this property strategically located in the San José del Cabo–Cabo San Lucas tourist corridor,” commented Stefania Ymay, Area Director – Mexico and Central America at Preferred Hotels & Resorts.

    “We are honored to be part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Lifestyle Collection,” commented Ignacio Yee, General Manager of Villa La Valencia Beach Resort & Spa. “This recognition reflects our commitment to providing exceptional service and memorable experiences, while continuing to showcase the hospitality of Los Cabos.”

    All guests of Villa La Valencia Beach Resort & Spa can enroll in I Prefer Hotel Rewards, the brand’s loyalty program, which boasts over 4.5 million members worldwide. Enrollment is free and allows members to accumulate points that can be redeemed for certificates, Elite status, and other benefits on stays at nearly 600 participating hotels and resorts.

    Preferred Hotels & Resorts provides strategic advantages to owners and operators through its brand prestige and global presence, supporting its member hotels with sales, marketing, revenue management, distribution technology, and personalized guest service. All properties must meet high standards of quality and service established by its quality assurance program. Through its Legend, LVX, Lifestyle, and Preferred Residences collections, the brand connects travelers with unique luxury hospitality experiences tailored to their needs and lifestyles.

  • Odisha Records 83,576 House Sparrows in First Statewide Census

    Bhubaneswar/Chhatrapur, Apr 28 (BNP): Odisha has carried out its first-ever statewide census of house sparrows for 2025–26, recording a total population of 83,576 birds across various districts.

    Odisha Records 83,576 House Sparrows in First Statewide Census

    The survey was conducted by Bhubaneswar-based organisation Wildlife Odisha Foundation, marking a significant step in tracking the status of the once-common urban bird species.

    According to the findings, house sparrows were spotted in both rural and urban habitats across the state, indicating their continued presence despite concerns over declining populations in many parts of the country.

    Conservation experts said the exercise will help establish a baseline for future studies and support efforts to protect biodiversity and urban bird habitats. They added that such data-driven monitoring is important for understanding environmental changes and guiding conservation strategies.

    Officials involved in the study noted that the census highlights the importance of citizen participation and awareness in wildlife conservation, especially for species closely associated with human settlements.

    The initiative is expected to be continued in the coming years to monitor trends and assess changes in sparrow populations across the state.

  • Historic Milestone for Ladakh: Five New Districts Carved Out to Redefine Himalayan Governance

    New Delhi/Leh,Apr28 (BNP): In a landmark administrative move, the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh has approved the creation of five new districts—Nubra, Sham, Changthang, Zanskar, and Drass—raising the total number of districts in the Union Territory from two to seven.

    Ladakh Gets Five New Districts in Landmark Move to Boost Governance and Himalayan Development

    The decision is aimed at decentralising governance, improving administrative efficiency, and bringing government services closer to people living in Ladakh’s remote and far-flung Himalayan regions. The existing districts of Leh and Kargil will now be joined by the five newly carved districts.

    Officials said the reorganisation is expected to significantly reduce travel time for residents who currently have to cover long distances to access district headquarters and government offices. Faster service delivery, better implementation of welfare schemes, and improved access to public services are among the key objectives of the expansion.

    Ladakh Gets Five New Districts in Landmark Move to Boost Governance and Himalayan Development

    The move is also aligned with the Centre’s broader vision of strengthening grassroots governance and ensuring balanced regional development in strategically important border areas. The proposal had earlier received approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs in August 2024.

    Apart from administrative convenience, the creation of new districts is expected to open fresh avenues for infrastructure development, employment generation, tourism promotion, and local economic growth.

    The decision has been welcomed as a transformative step that will strengthen governance and accelerate progress across the Union Territory of Ladakh.