22, Jun 2026
NHAI Directs Wayside Amenities to Prioritise Vehicle Repair Facilities on Highways
New Delhi, June 22: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued comprehensive directions to all wayside amenities along national highways to prioritise the development and operational readiness of vehicle repair and breakdown assistance facilities.
The directive is aimed at significantly strengthening roadside support infrastructure across India’s national highway network and ensuring timely assistance to commuters in the event of vehicle breakdowns or emergencies.
Strengthening Roadside Safety and Support
NHAI stated that the availability of reliable and prompt repair services is a critical component of highway safety and user convenience. With increasing traffic density and rising long-distance travel, the authority has emphasized the need for robust and accessible roadside support systems.
The initiative is expected to reduce travel disruptions, minimize traffic congestion caused by stalled vehicles, and improve overall efficiency in highway operations.
Key Focus Areas
Under the directive, wayside amenities are encouraged to:
- Ensure availability of dedicated vehicle repair and maintenance services
- Provide trained personnel capable of handling common breakdown situations
- Maintain essential spare parts and emergency repair equipment
- Facilitate towing and emergency assistance services where required
- Strengthen coordination mechanisms for faster response times
Enhancing User Experience
The authority highlighted that improving roadside service infrastructure is essential for enhancing the overall travel experience on national highways. Reliable breakdown assistance not only improves commuter confidence but also contributes to smoother traffic movement and reduced accident risks.
Part of Broader Highway Modernisation Effort
The initiative forms part of NHAI’s ongoing efforts to modernize highway infrastructure and upgrade user amenities across the country. These measures are aligned with the broader vision of developing safer, more efficient, and more commuter-friendly national highways.
The authority reiterated its commitment to continuously improving service standards and ensuring that highway users have access to essential support services throughout their journeys.
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- By Neel Achary
22, Jun 2026
West Bengal Budget 2026–27 Focuses on Tax Simplification and Revenue Growth
Kolkata, June 22: The Government of West Bengal has presented its Budget for the financial year 2026–27, with a strong focus on tax simplification and measures aimed at boosting revenue growth.
The budget outlines initiatives to streamline tax processes, improve compliance, and make the taxation system more efficient and taxpayer-friendly. The reforms are intended to reduce complexity and enhance ease of doing business across sectors.
The government has also emphasized widening the tax base and strengthening revenue collection mechanisms to improve fiscal stability and support long-term development priorities.
Officials stated that these measures are designed to ensure better transparency, improved efficiency in financial management, and sustained economic growth in the state.
The budget reflects the government’s continued commitment to strengthening public finances while supporting economic activity and investment in West Bengal.
22, Jun 2026
Dedicated Freight Corridor Boosts Gujarat’s Logistics Capacity Ahead of VGRC
Gandhinagar, June 22: Ahead of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC), the Dedicated Freight Corridor has emerged as a major driver in enhancing Gujarat’s logistics infrastructure and overall cargo handling capacity.
The improved freight connectivity is expected to significantly reduce transit time, lower logistics costs, and improve efficiency in goods movement across key industrial and port-linked routes in the state.
Officials highlighted that the Dedicated Freight Corridor is strengthening integration between industrial zones, logistics parks, and major ports, thereby streamlining supply chains and supporting faster movement of goods.
The development is anticipated to further reinforce Gujarat’s position as a leading industrial and logistics hub, attracting investment and supporting export-oriented growth.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernize India’s freight infrastructure and improve competitiveness in global trade networks.
22, Jun 2026
Government Approves INR 270 Crore Kavach Deployment on 631 Route km of East Coast Railway
New Delhi, June 22: The Government of India has approved a ₹270 crore project for the deployment of the indigenous train collision avoidance system, Kavach, across 631 route kilometres of the East Coast Railway.
The initiative is aimed at significantly enhancing railway safety by reducing the risk of signal passing at danger (SPAD), train collisions, and other operational hazards. The deployment forms part of Indian Railways’ ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen its safety infrastructure through indigenous technological solutions.
Kavach is designed to improve operational efficiency and provide automated protection to trains by enabling real-time communication between locomotives and signalling systems.
Railway officials stated that the implementation of Kavach will enhance passenger safety, improve network reliability, and support safer train operations across the East Coast Railway zone.
The project marks another step forward in the government’s commitment to adopting advanced safety technologies within the railway network.
22, Jun 2026
Aadhaar App Crosses 3.1 Crore Downloads; 40 Lakh Users Update Mobile Numbers
New Delhi, June 22, 2026: The Aadhaar mobile application has recorded over 3.1 crore downloads, highlighting the growing adoption of digital identity services across India. The platform has also facilitated mobile number updates for nearly 40 lakh users, demonstrating increased reliance on digital self-service features.
The rising usage reflects a strong shift toward convenient, paperless, and time-saving processes for managing Aadhaar details. Users are increasingly choosing the mobile application to carry out essential updates without visiting physical enrolment centres.
The trend underscores the government’s ongoing push toward digital governance and improved citizen access to essential identity services.
The app continues to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and user experience in managing Aadhaar-related services nationwide.
22, Jun 2026
Markets End Higher as IT and Pharma Stocks Lift Sensex, Nifty
Mumbai, June 22: Indian equity markets closed higher on the day, driven by strong gains in IT and pharmaceutical stocks, which boosted overall investor sentiment.
Benchmark indices BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50 ended in positive territory as buying activity strengthened across select sectors. IT stocks led the rally, supported by expectations of steady global demand and resilient earnings prospects, while pharmaceutical stocks also witnessed sustained investor interest.
Market participants noted that optimism in export-oriented and defensive sectors helped offset volatility in broader markets, contributing to the upward movement in indices.
Analysts suggest that continued momentum in IT and pharma segments may support near-term market stability, though global economic cues and institutional flows will remain key drivers of future direction.
22, Jun 2026
India’s Got Nova, an Unconventional Community-First Format Featuring Samay Raina and Rajiv Makhni; Continues Industry-First Open Review Program
New Delhi, June 22: Ai+ Smartphone today announced the reveal of the Nova 2 Neo 5G and Nova 2 Pro 5G, expanding its Nova Series portfolio and reinforcing their commitment to delivering trusted, accessible, and performance-driven smartphone experiences for Indian consumers.
Designed for different user needs while sharing a common philosophy of design, reliability, and transparency, the Nova2 Neo 5G and Nova2 Pro 5G bring the Nova experience to a broader audience from first-time smartphone users and value-conscious buyers to creators, professionals, and performance-focused upgraders.
In a departure from traditional smartphone launches, Ai+ Smartphones unveiled the devices through “India’s Got Nova“, an entertainment-led launch format hosted by comedian Samay Raina alongside Gadget Guru Rajiv Makhni. The launch combined audience interaction, product demonstrations, live debates, and real-world challenges to showcase the devices in a more authentic and consumer-centric manner.
The reveal also follows Ai+ Smartphones’ recently announced Open Review Program, under which reviewers, creators, journalists, and members of India’s technology community were invited to use, test, challenge, and review the devices before they become commercially available. With no embargoes, no talking points, and no review guidelines, the initiative reflects the company’s belief that trust is earned through transparency and that consumer feedback should help shape products before they reach the market.
Commenting on the reveal, Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone & Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said:
“The smartphone market is becoming increasingly diverse, with consumers seeking devices that align with their individual lifestyles, aspirations, and expectations rather than a one-size-fits-all experience. The Nova Series was created to address this shift by bringing together thoughtful design, dependable performance, trusted software, and meaningful innovation within a single portfolio.”
“With the introduction of the Nova 2 Neo and Nova 2 Pro, we are expanding the reach of the Nova Series across a broader spectrum of users from first-time smartphone owners to performance-focused upgraders. At the same time, we wanted the launch itself to reflect the values we stand for. That’s why we chose to involve the community, invite honest feedback, and launch these devices through a format that prioritises real conversations over presentations.” he added.
The Open Review Program received an overwhelming response from the technology community, with hundreds of reviewers, creators, journalists, and technology enthusiasts registering to participate. Feedback from the program will continue to be incorporated as part of Ai+‘s broader commitment to transparency, product improvement, and consumer trust.
NOVA 2 NEO: THE SMART ENTRY
The Nova 2 Neo is the most accessible device in the Nova Series, designed to bring the Nova experience of thoughtful design, dependable performance, and trusted software to first-time smartphone users and value-conscious buyers.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset, the device features a 6.745-inch HD+ 120Hz display, a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI camera, and an 8MP front camera.
A 6000mAh battery with 18W charging support ensures all-day usage, while expandable storage of up to 2TB, dual SIM 5G, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP65 dust and water resistance, and a slim 8.5mm profile make it a highly practical everyday companion.
The Nova 2 Neo runs Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS and includes the NxtPrivacy Dashboard, AI Key support, and a clean software experience designed around user control and transparency.
Available Configurations:
• 4GB + 128GB
• 6GB + 128GB
NOVA 2 PRO: THE PERFORMANCE STATEMENT
Built for creators, professionals, and users seeking a more immersive smartphone experience, the Nova 2 Pro combines elevated design with stronger performance and richer multimedia capabilities.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chipset, the device features a 6.9-inch FHD+ 144Hz punch-hole display with up to 800 nits HBM brightness and a multi-layer cooling system.
Its camera setup includes a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 13MP front camera for content creation and video communication.
The Nova 2 Pro also introduces customisable lights in the back panel for calls, messages, notifications etc, a premium 2.5D glass finish, dual stereo speakers, dual microphones, UFS storage, expandable memory of 1TB, and a 6000mAh battery with 33W fast charging.
Like the Neo, it runs Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard and advanced AI Key customisation.
Available Configurations:
• 6GB + 128GB
• 8GB + 128GB
Availability:
The Nova 2 Neo and Nova 2 Pro will be available on Flipkart and select retail outlets.
22, Jun 2026
Asian Energy Bags Rs 187.6 Crore Gujarat Power EPC Contract, Expands Beyond Coal India
Asian Energy Services Limited has secured a Rs 187.62 Crores EPC contract (including GST) from Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited (GSECL) for enhancement of a coal handling plant in Ukai Gujarat. The project marks a strategic milestone for the company as its first major order outside Coal India and its subsidiaries and associates. It signals a diversification of its client base and a strong entry into state utility-led infrastructure projects. The project involves capacity enhancement of the Coal Handling Plant (Stage-II) at the Ukai Thermal Power Station in Gujarat. The project is being executed on a lumpsum EPC basis, and the scope covers end-to-end engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning, which will take place over 2-3 years.
Dr. Kapil Garg, Managing Director, Asian Energy Services Limited, said, “Asian Energy is delighted to have won this project, which will involve upgrading the coal handling plant capacity of Ukai Thermal Power Station. The project expands our order book in the mineral infrastructure vertical and adds to our revenue visibility for the next 2 years. All our projects thus far have been for Coal India and its subsidiaries & associates, and working on this project reflects our successful efforts towards acquiring new customers for our service offerings.”
22, Jun 2026
Centre Rules Out Stake Sale in Cochin Shipyard for Now
June 22: The Central Government has clarified that there are currently no plans to divest its stake in Cochin Shipyard Limited, reaffirming its commitment to the strategic public sector enterprise.
The clarification comes amid discussions surrounding the government’s disinvestment programme and the future of public sector undertakings. Officials stated that no proposal is under consideration at present for the sale of the Centre’s shareholding in the shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure company.
Cochin Shipyard, one of India’s leading shipbuilding and ship repair facilities, plays a significant role in supporting the country’s maritime, commercial, and defence sectors. The company has been instrumental in delivering a range of vessels and infrastructure projects while contributing to the growth of India’s shipbuilding capabilities.
The government’s position is expected to provide clarity to investors and industry stakeholders, reinforcing confidence in the company’s ongoing operations and long-term development plans.
Market observers noted that the statement underscores the strategic importance of Cochin Shipyard in India’s maritime ecosystem and aligns with broader efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing and infrastructure capabilities.
The Centre reiterated that any future decisions regarding public sector holdings would be taken in accordance with policy objectives and prevailing economic considerations.
22, Jun 2026
SEBI Move to Lower Margin Burden Expected to Strengthen Commodity Markets
June 22: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has eased margin requirements for commodity derivatives positions that are backed by the early pay-in of underlying goods, a move aimed at improving market efficiency and reducing costs for participants.
The regulatory change is expected to benefit traders, hedgers, and other market participants by providing margin relief when commodities are delivered in advance against derivatives positions. The measure is designed to better align margin requirements with the reduced risk associated with positions backed by actual goods.
SEBI said the revised framework will help strengthen the commodity derivatives ecosystem by encouraging greater participation and improving the ease of doing business in commodity markets. The move is also expected to support efficient price discovery and enhance liquidity across commodity exchanges.
Industry experts believe the relaxation could particularly benefit producers, processors, and traders who use derivatives markets to manage price risks. By lowering the margin burden on eligible positions, market participants may be able to deploy capital more efficiently while maintaining effective risk management practices.
The decision forms part of SEBI’s broader efforts to modernize India’s commodity markets and create a more robust regulatory environment that balances market growth with investor protection.
Market observers view the reform as a positive step toward deepening participation in commodity derivatives trading and strengthening India’s position as a growing commodities marketplace.
