5, May 2026
Indian Railways Announces New East Coast Railway Division at Rayagada, Operations from June 1
Bhubaneswar, May 5 (BNP): The Indian Railways has issued an official notification announcing the formation of a new railway division at Rayagada, marking a significant step towards strengthening rail infrastructure in the region.
The newly created division will function under the East Coast Railway and is scheduled to become operational from June 1. The move is aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency, improving passenger and freight services, and boosting connectivity across southern Odisha and adjoining areas.
Officials stated that the establishment of the Rayagada division is expected to streamline operations, support regional economic growth, and facilitate better management of key rail routes in the mineral-rich belt.
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- By Neel Achary
5, May 2026
IEX Power Trading Volume Rises 16.6 pc in April Amid Strong Market Demand
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) reported a 16.6% year-on-year rise in electricity trading volume for April, with total trade reaching 12,341 million units, supported by higher demand in the power market.
In the day-ahead segment, buy bids increased 31% year-on-year, while sell bids grew 35%, indicating strong participation from both sides of the market.
Reflecting firm demand conditions, the average market-clearing price stood at ₹5.26 per unit, up 1% compared to the same period last year.
The performance underscores sustained activity and healthy liquidity in the electricity trading market during the month.
5, May 2026
Narendra Modi Condemns Iran Attack on UAE, Backs Safe Navigation in Strait of Hormuz!
New Delhi, May 05 (BNP): India on Tuesday strongly condemned the reported Iranian drone and missile attacks on an oil facility in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which left three Indian nationals injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure as “unacceptable” and called for restraint.
The attack targeted the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone in Fujairah, a key energy and shipping hub, amid heightened tensions in West Asia. The incident occurred shortly after the United States launched “Project Freedom” to escort stranded merchant vessels through the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, which has remained disrupted since the escalation of the regional conflict earlier this year.
“Strongly condemn the attacks on the UAE that resulted in injuries to three Indian nationals. Targeting civilians and infrastructure is unacceptable,” the Prime Minister said. He further reaffirmed that India stands in firm solidarity with the UAE and emphasised the need for peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy.
Highlighting the importance of maritime security, Modi underscored that ensuring safe and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz is critical for regional stability and global trade.
The Government of India is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with UAE authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian citizens in the region.
5, May 2026
Bihar AI Summit 2026 to Showcase Tech Talent in Patna
Patna, May 5 (BNP): Bihar is preparing to host a major technology-focused event with the Bihar AI Summit 2026, scheduled for May 23–24 at Urja Auditorium in Patna. The event is expected to bring together thousands of students, developers, startups, and technology professionals from across the region.
The summit aims to promote awareness and understanding of Artificial Intelligence, while encouraging young talent to explore opportunities in emerging technologies. Organisers said the event will focus on how AI is transforming key sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance.
By creating a platform for learning, collaboration, and innovation, the summit seeks to bridge the skill gap and introduce participants to practical applications of AI in real-world scenarios.
The initiative is expected to play a significant role in strengthening the state’s growing technology ecosystem and inspiring the next generation of digital innovators.
5, May 2026
Škoda Auto Volkswagen India appoints Ashutosh Dixit as Brand Director of Porsche India
Mumbai, May 05: Porsche India, a division of Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL), today announced the appointment of Ashutosh Dixit as Brand Director, Porsche India, with immediate effect.
Throughout a distinguished career across India, China, and Europe, Ashutosh Dixit has held several leadership roles, building deep expertise in strategy, sales operations, and brand development. He brings over 28 years of experience in the automotive industry, including nearly two decades within the Volkswagen Group. In his previous role as Market Development Director at the Porsche Middle East and Africa regional office, he played a key role in shaping initiatives for the Indian market.
Dixit succeeds Manolito Vujicic, who has decided to pursue opportunities outside the Group. Škoda Auto Volkswagen India thanks Manolito Vujicic for his leadership and contribution.
“Ashutosh brings a deep understanding of both the Porsche brand and the Indian market to this role,” said Dr. Manfred Bräunl, Chief Executive Officer, Porsche Middle East and Africa. “His leadership experience across regions and functions makes him exceptionally well-positioned to guide Porsche India into its next phase. India continues to be an important market for us, and we are confident that under his leadership, the brand will further strengthen its presence and performance.”
Piyush Arora, MD and CEO, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India said, “We are delighted to welcome Ashutosh Dixit as the new Brand Director of Porsche India, who will further bolster the leadership team in India. Ashutosh is a familiar face within the Volkswagen Group, with his understanding of markets, customers, and the brand making him well-suited to lead Porsche India. I’m confident he will build on the progress Porsche has made in India and continue to strengthen the brand’s presence. This appointment is a testament to our unwavering focus on strengthening internal talent from within India.”
Jan Bures, Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Digital, Škoda Auto Volkswagen India added, “Ashutosh’s appointment marks an exciting chapter for Porsche in India. His proven ability to navigate diverse markets and lead with vision makes him the right person to drive our journey forward. India is a dynamic and strategic market for us, and with Ashutosh at the helm, we look forward to building stronger connections with our customers and achieving new milestones.”
Škoda Auto Volkswagen India remains committed to the long-term potential of the Indian automotive market, with a clear focus on sustainable growth, customer-centric innovation, and expanding its product portfolio.
5, May 2026
NCERT Revises SC-Barred Class 8 Social Science Textbook, Release Likely Within a Week!
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): The Class 8 Social Science textbook published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training, earlier barred by the Supreme Court of India, has been revised and is likely to be released within a week, according to sources in the Ministry of Education.
Titled “Exploring Society: India and Beyond (Part II)”, the textbook had been withdrawn in March following the Court’s directive imposing a blanket ban on its publication, reprinting, and digital circulation over concerns regarding a chapter referencing corruption in the judiciary.
Officials stated that the revised edition has undergone scrutiny by an expert committee constituted by NCERT, which reviewed and modified the contentious content. The updated version has reportedly received approval from the expert panel, and is now awaiting final clearance from the NCERT syllabus committee.
“The revised book has been approved by the expert panel. A syllabus committee meeting will grant final clearance, following which printing is expected to begin later this week,” a source said.
The development comes amid growing concerns over delays in the availability of NCERT textbooks, which have begun impacting students since the academic session commenced on April 1. Once approved, printing of the revised edition will be initiated immediately, and the textbook is expected to be available in the market within a week, ensuring minimal disruption to academic activities.
5, May 2026
Amit Shah, J. P. Nadda Named BJP Observers as Party Scripts Historic Wins in West Bengal & Assam!
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): In the wake of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) landmark electoral performance, senior leaders Amit Shah and J. P. Nadda have been appointed as central observers for key states to oversee the formation of legislative leadership.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been designated as the BJP’s central observer for West Bengal, with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi serving as co-observer. Meanwhile, JP Nadda has been appointed as the central observer for Assam, assisted by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini as co-observer.
The appointments follow the BJP’s historic victory in the recently concluded Assembly elections. In West Bengal, the Bharatiya Janata Party is set to form its first-ever government after securing 207 out of 294 seats, while the All India Trinamool Congress won 80 seats. In Assam, the BJP secured 82 seats, comfortably surpassing the majority mark of 64, with its allies — Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People’s Front — winning 10 seats each. The Indian National Congress, despite alliances, managed only 19 seats.
In contrast, the Congress-led United Democratic Front registered a strong victory in Kerala, with the Congress alone winning 63 seats in the 140-member Assembly. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) secured 26 seats, while the Communist Party of India won 8 seats.
Tamil Nadu witnessed a significant political shift, with Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam emerging as the single largest party, winning 107 seats in the 234-member Assembly, just short of the majority mark. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam secured 59 seats, marking a notable setback for the incumbent government.
Following the results, Tamil Nadu Governor R. N. Ravi accepted the resignation of outgoing Chief Minister M. K. Stalin and his Council of Ministers, paving the way for the formation of a new government.
These developments underscore a transformative electoral cycle across multiple states, with shifting political dynamics and the emergence of new power centres in India’s regional landscape.
5, May 2026
Indian Heritage and Contemporary Design Shine at Met Gala 2026
New Delhi, May 5 (BNP): Indian art, heritage, and modern design took centre stage at the Met Gala 2026, as several Indian celebrities showcased carefully curated ensembles inspired by the country’s rich cultural and artistic legacy.
The event witnessed strong references to classical and contemporary Indian art forms, drawing inspiration from figures such as Raja Ravi Varma, Ajanta cave paintings, and modern artists like Subodh Gupta. Traditional craftsmanship, intricate embroidery, and gemstone detailing were prominently featured across several high-fashion looks.
Prominent appearances included Isha Ambani in a diamond-studded ensemble inspired by traditional draping styles, Sudha Reddy adorned with an elaborate high-value jewellery piece, and Ananya Birla wearing a striking metallic-themed accessory designed by Subodh Gupta.
Filmmaker Karan Johar made a statement in a cape inspired by classical Indian paintings, while philanthropist Natasha Poonawala and members of Jaipur’s erstwhile royal family showcased couture designs blending heritage and contemporary fashion. Designer Manish Malhotra also presented a fusion look featuring traditional tailoring with modern artistic elements.
The showcase highlighted the growing global influence of Indian design, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling in international fashion platforms.
5, May 2026
India Continue to Lead ICC T20I Rankings After Latest Update
Dubai, May 5 (BNP): India have retained their position in the latest ICC T20 International rankings, followed by England in second place and Australia in third, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The updated rankings are based on a weighted system that gives full value to matches played since May 2025, while performances from the previous two years carry reduced weightage.
India’s strong and consistent performances in recent international tournaments, including their successful T20 World Cup campaign, have helped them maintain their standing in the global rankings.
5, May 2026
Religare Finvest appoints Karthik Srinivasan as CEO
New Delhi, May 5: Religare Finvest Limited (RFL), a Small and Micro Enterprises (SME)-focused NBFC, today announced the appointment of Karthik Srinivasan as its Chief Executive Officer.
A seasoned business leader with over three decades of experience across banking, financial services, and large-scale operations, Srinivasan brings deep strategic expertise and execution capabilities to lead Religare Finvest into its next phase of growth.
In his new role, Srinivasan will be responsible for formulating and executing the company’s strategy to build a scaled, multi-line NBFC. His focus will include expanding a robust phygital distribution network, strengthening risk management frameworks, and enhancing credit delivery using advanced technologies, including AI-led solutions. He will also work toward building a high-performing organization and fostering a resilient, growth-oriented culture.
Arjun Lamba, Executive Director at Religare Enterprises Limited, said,
“We are delighted to welcome Karthik Srinivasan as Chief Executive Officer of Religare Finvest Limited. His deep domain expertise and proven leadership will be instrumental in scaling the business. With strong capital backing and long-term support, we are well positioned to expand our presence in the SME lending space.”
Prior to joining RFL, Srinivasan spent over a decade at HDB Financial Services, where he played a key role in building and scaling consumer and asset finance portfolios across multiple product lines. He also contributed significantly to the company’s digital transformation initiatives. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Intelenet Global Services / Serco and worked with leading domestic and international financial institutions. He has also been involved in entrepreneurial ventures in the education and technology sectors.
Commenting on his appointment, Karthik Srinivasan said,
“I am delighted to join Religare Finvest at a pivotal time. My focus will be on strengthening core business fundamentals, investing in people and capabilities, and building a resilient institution that can sustain long-term growth.”
Srinivasan holds a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology Delhi and a PGDM in Accounting and Finance from Indian Institute of Management Bangalore.
This appointment comes at a significant juncture for Religare Finvest. Following the Reserve Bank of India’s removal of the Corrective Action Plan (CAP) restrictions, the company is now well-positioned to resume and scale its lending operations. Strengthened by improved institutional standing and a solid capital base, RFL is set to accelerate growth and expand its SME lending footprint.
Indranil Choudhury, Group Chief Human Resources Officer at Religare Enterprises Limited, added,
“Karthik brings a rare combination of strategic clarity and execution excellence. His leadership will be key in building a resilient organization and driving sustainable growth.”
With this leadership transition, Religare Finvest signals a strong intent to move forward with renewed momentum, leveraging technology, capital strength, and strategic leadership to unlock long-term value.
