Blog

17 Apr

Amazon India expands smartchoice to tablets amid surge in demand

Business BureauBusiness

Amazon India has extended its popular Smartchoice program to tablets, building on the success of the initiative in the laptop segment. The move aims to simplify the device selection process for consumers, particularly as the tablet category witnesses a 26% year-over-year growth in 2024. The Smartchoice program curates expert-recommended devices based on user needs—be it for education, gaming, professional use, or entertainment. It eliminates the complexity of technical comparisons by offering performance-validated selections from top brands like Samsung, Lenovo, Asus, Honor, Acer, and HP. “Customers often find it difficult to navigate tech specifications. Smartchoice transforms the purchase journey by aligning…

17 Apr

TATA AIG launches ‘MediCare Select’ to deepen retail health access, expand hospital network

Business BureauBusiness

TATA AIG General Insurance Company has launched MediCare Select, a next-generation health insurance product aimed at expanding its retail health portfolio and enhancing healthcare accessibility across India. As part of its ambitious strategy, the insurer plans to scale up its hospital network from 11,500 to over 14,000 facilities by FY27. The product launch reflects TATA AIG’s focus on reaching underserved regions, with Tier 2 and 3 cities expected to contribute 35% of its health portfolio by FY27, up from 26%. Key features of MediCare Select include unlimited restorations under ‘Restore Infinity Plus’, lifetime claim coverage under ‘Infinite Advantage’, and OPD…

17 Apr

UK Scientists Develop First Plastic-Eating Enzyme Spray

Sonakshi SarkarInternational

Researchers at the University of Portsmouth in the UK have developed a sprayable enzyme solution capable of breaking down common plastics like PET in hours instead of decades. The product, currently in trial stages, could revolutionize global recycling practices. The enzyme spray, derived from bacteria found in compost heaps, dissolves plastic at the molecular level. Initial lab tests show it can reduce a plastic bottle to non-toxic components within 48 hours. This innovation arrives at a critical time when global plastic waste is projected to reach 1.2 billion tonnes by 2050. Environmental groups are calling the enzyme a “game-changer” for…

17 Apr

Guwahati to host critical Mizoram-Assam border meeting

Sonakshi SarkarMizoram

In a significant move towards resolving the long-standing border dispute between Mizoram and Assam, a seven-member delegation from Mizoram is set to travel to Guwahati on April 24 to participate in official-level talks with their counterparts from Assam. The meeting is scheduled to be held the following day, April 25. According to a senior Mizoram official, the delegation will be led by Mizoram Home Secretary Vanlalmawia. On the Assam side, the talks are expected to be headed by a senior official, likely a principal secretary or secretary from the Border Protection and Development Department. This upcoming dialogue marks a crucial…

17 Apr

Arunachal will host an international conclave on Buddha Dhamma from April 21–22

Banasree SarkarArunachal PradeshBuddha Dhamma

In April 21–22, 2025, the Multipurpose Cultural Hall in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, will host a two-day international conclave titled "Buddha Dhamma and the Culture of North-East India," organized by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The purpose of the event is to draw attention to the long-lasting impact of Buddhist legacy and philosophy in North-East India, an area rich in many Buddhist traditions. Prominent luminaries are anticipated to attend the summit, including Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu and the state's deputy chief minister, Shri Chowna Mein. For the Theravāda,…

17 Apr

Gold futures inflation record high of Rs 94,781 per 10 grams

Business CorrespondentBusiness, News

New Delhi, Gold prices hit an all-time high of Rs 94,781 per 10 grams in futures trade on Wednesday in line with a strong global trend.On the Multi Commodity Exchange, contracts for June delivery hit a record high of Rs 94,781 per 10 grams in early trade.Later, the gains narrowed by Rs 1,317 or 1.41 percent to Rs 94,768 per 10 grams, with an open interest of 21,211 lots.Analysts say the ongoing US-China trade war has fuelled safe-haven demand."The dollar remained under pressure and was trading near a two-year low, which further fuelled the rally in gold," said Rahul Kalantri,…

16 Apr

A squadron of supercars has reached the Indo-Tibetan border’s Bumla Pass

Banasree SarkarArunachal PradeshArunachal Pradesh

On the Indo-Tibetan border, a fleet of supercars has reached Bumla Pass after an exhilarating journey of over 2,000 kilometers. Known as the Arunachal Himalayan Odyssey — Thrill Run, the event's stunning Trans-Arunachal Highway route allowed runners to experience the region's breathtaking scenery and adventurous spirit. The drive started in eastern Arunachal Pradesh at Pangsau Pass and led the participants through the breathtaking and spectacular highlands of the state before arriving at the snow-capped peaks of Bumla in the west. The trip showcased Arunachal Pradesh's breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural diversity in addition to being a test of strength…

16 Apr

New Policy Aims to Reduce Teen Suicides and Anxiety

Sonakshi SarkarInternational

In response to growing mental health concerns among teenagers, the UK’s Department for Education has announced that all public schools will introduce mandatory weekly “mental health check-ins” starting this September. Under the new plan, students aged 11–18 will engage in guided sessions once a week with certified counselors or trained teachers. Topics will include emotional literacy, coping mechanisms, mindfulness, and identifying early signs of depression or stress. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said the program aims to reduce the rising number of youth suicides and hospitalizations due to anxiety and depression. Recent NHS data shows that one in six UK teenagers…

16 Apr

New Tech to Help South Asian Countries Manage Monsoon Hazards

Sonakshi SarkarNepal

Nepal has launched a cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence-based Early Warning System to predict landslides during the monsoon season. Developed in collaboration with the UK’s University of Leeds and Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan University, the system uses satellite data and local sensors to alert at-risk areas. This move comes as landslides have become more frequent in Nepal due to deforestation, unplanned road construction, and climate change. Over 300 people died in landslide-related incidents in 2023 alone. The AI platform will send real-time alerts to local governments and villages through mobile phones and FM radio. Pilot testing in Sindhupalchok and Gorkha districts has already shown…

16 Apr

Eight arrested after Waqf Bill protest turns violent in Tripura

Sonakshi SarkarTripura

Tripura’s Director General (Intelligence) Anurag Dhankar visited Kailashahar in Unakoti district on Sunday evening to assess the law and order situation following a violent protest over the Waqf Amendment Bill. Tensions flared on April 12 in Kubjhar village when a rally protesting the bill was stopped by security personnel, leading to a confrontation. Protestors reportedly pelted stones and bricks, prompting police to use force to disperse the crowd. Several police personnel and demonstrators were injured. Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident. In response, heavy security has been deployed across Kailashahar to prevent further unrest. DG Dhankar…