21, Apr 2026
India, South Korea Boost Economic Ties

New Delhi, Apr 21 (BNP): Union Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman and Piyush Goyal engaged in strategic discussions with senior leadership from South Korea, reinforcing the shared commitment to deepen economic and technological cooperation.

The dialogue centred on expanding bilateral trade, accelerating investment flows, and strengthening collaboration in high-growth sectors such as digital innovation, green energy, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing. Both sides also explored ways to enhance supply chain resilience and promote industry partnerships in emerging technologies, including semiconductors.

Highlighting India’s reform-driven growth trajectory, the ministers underscored the country’s focus on ease of doing business and its attractiveness as a global investment destination. They invited greater participation from Korean enterprises in India’s expanding industrial and innovation ecosystem.

The discussions reflected a forward-looking approach, with both nations expressing confidence in scaling up their strategic partnership through targeted initiatives and deeper institutional engagement. The meetings are expected to catalyse new opportunities for cooperation and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

This engagement marks another step in strengthening the long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship between India and South Korea, anchored in shared economic priorities and global outlook.

21, Apr 2026
Finding the best dietary supplements for cycling performance – and recovery
Focusing on the rigours of elite cycling, Flinders University experts have put performance-enhancing and other dietary supplements under the microscope, rating some more highly than others.
 
From carbs, beetroot juice and the latest sports gels, the research new highlights how a range of dietary supplements may help improve cycling performance, working to support the body’s energy systems and reducing fatigue during exercise.

Finding the best dietary supplements for cycling performance – and recovery

 

 
The research team – including Australian Olympic cyclist Sophie Edwards, who is studying Medicine at Flinders University (pictured) – found the strongest evidence for beta-alanine, caffeine, carbohydrates (such as sports gels), creatine monohydrate, dietary nitrates (such as beetroot juice), electrolytes and sodium bicarbonate as ergogenic supplements to support cycling performance.
 
“They influence how muscles produce and use energy, which is crucial for high-performance athletes,” says Flinders Professor in Clinical Pharmacology Andrew Rowland, from the College of Medicine and Public Health, who led the study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.
 
During exercise, the body continuously regenerates energy through several pathways that support different types of effort – from short, explosive bursts to longer endurance activity.
 
“We found the strongest evidence for these performance supplements supporting the body’s energy systems by improving fuel use, increasing buffering capacity, enhancing energy availability and delaying fatigue,” says Professor Rowland.
 
In addition to supplements that directly enhance performance, the research also found support for other medical and recovery focussed supplements which can play an important indirect role by supporting bone health, connective integrity, inflammation management, micronutrient status, muscle repair and gut function.
 
The research found evidence to support the use of calcium, cheery juice, collagen, curcumin, iron, multivitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, pickle juice, probiotics, protein, vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc for other medical and recovery issues.
 
“The relationship between nutrition, training and performance optimisation in elite cyclists depends on individualised supplementation strategies tailored to training demands and competitive goals, to either improve recovery, support immunity or promote long-term physiological adaptation,” says Professor Rowland.
 
“In practice, effective supplementation should be viewed as an adjunct and not a replacement for training, nutrition and recovery.
 
“Evidence-based, individualised, and ethically sound strategies are essential to maximise both performance outcomes and athlete wellbeing,” he says.
 
To broadly guide the safe and effective use of ergogenic and medical supplements in sport, classification systems such as the four-tier Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) framework provide evidence-based recommendations for athletes and practitioners. These range from Group A supplements with strong scientific support, through those with limited or emerging benefits, to Group D supplements which are banned.
 
“Within the broad guidance provided by the Australian Institute of Sport framework, there is a need to personalise supplement strategies based on individual factors such as sex, age, hormonal status, genetic predispositions and gut microbiota composition, which may influence both efficacy and safety.
 
“Optimising supplementation requires aligning individual metabolic demands with targeted compounds that support key pathways involved in energy production, buffering, recovery and resilience.”
 
Supplements with strong evidence in cycling include: Beta-alanine, caffeine, carbohydrates, creatine monohydrate, dietary nitrates, electrolytes, glycerol and sodium bicarbonate. These supplements are supported by high-quality evidence and can provide meaningful performance benefits when used appropriately.
 
Individualisation of supplement programs is essential: Supplement strategies should be tailored to the athlete’s characteristics and context, including sex, age, training status, and environmental conditions such as heat and altitude. Physiological testing of such aspects as VO₂max, lactate threshold, sweat sodium concentration, micronutrient status can help guide the selection and timing of these supplements.
 
Health, safety and anti-doping considerations must apply: The researchers emphasise that only supplements tested by cycling populations and screened by independent third-party programs should be used, to minimise health risks and inadvertent doping violations. They warn that athletes who take supplements must remain vigilant under the WADA strict liability principle, which places full responsibility for all substances in their system on the competitor.
 
The research – ‘A comprehensive review of the physiology and evidence base to guide the use of ergogenic and medical supplements for enhanced cycling performance’ (2026) by Andrew Rowland, Sophie Edwards, Gorka Prieto-Bellver, Bradley Menz, Angela Rowland, Erik Cornelisse, Christos Karapetis, Matthew Wallen and Ashley Hopkins – has been published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2026.2630487
 
Caption: Professor of Clinical Pharmacology Andrew Rowland, back left, with coauthors Associate Professor Ashley Hopkins, front left, and sport nutritionist Dr Robyn Jones and Bradley Menz, discuss the research with pro cyclist and Flinders med student Sophie Edwards
21, Apr 2026
Sunrisers Hyderabad Set for Crucial Home Clash Against Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026 Showdown

Hyderabad, April 21(BNP): Sunrisers Hyderabad are set to face Delhi Capitals in the 31st match of the Indian Premier League 2026 season at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium this evening.

Sunrisers Hyderabad Set for Crucial Home Clash Against Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026 Showdown

Scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM IST, with the toss at 7:00 PM, the match will be broadcast on the JioStar Network and streamed live on JioHotstar, while international viewers can tune in via Willow TV.

With both teams currently placed mid-table with six points each, the encounter carries significant importance in the race to the playoffs. Sunrisers Hyderabad, positioned fourth, will aim to leverage home advantage and crowd support, while Delhi Capitals, just behind in fifth place, will be keen to secure a crucial away victory.

The Hyderabad pitch is expected to favor batters, offering a flat surface with short boundaries, while dew could influence the second innings, making the toss a key factor. Weather conditions are forecast to remain clear during match time despite high daytime temperatures.

The contest is set to showcase Hyderabad’s aggressive batting unit against Delhi’s well-rounded lineup. Players such as Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen, and Ishan Kishan are expected to play pivotal roles for SRH, while DC will rely on the experience of KL Rahul, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav.

Predicted Playing XI:
Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (c), Heinrich Klaasen, Nitish Reddy, Aniket Verma, Salil Arora, Liam Livingstone, Shivang Kumar, Praful Hinge, Sakib Hussain.

Delhi Capitals: Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul, Nitish Rana, Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, Axar Patel (c), David Miller, Auqib Nabi Dar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, T Natarajan.

As the league stage intensifies, both teams will be eager to build momentum and strengthen their position on the points table, promising fans an electrifying contest under lights in Hyderabad.

 
21, Apr 2026
Compass Group India Invests in Cage-Free Egg Production with Global Food Partners

SINGAPORE – 21 April, 2026 – Global Food Partners (GFP), a global consultancy helping food businesses achieve higher animal welfare standards in their supply chains, today announced it has supported Compass Group India, a leader in food services, to drive cage-free egg production and support local farmers in India.

Due to limited cage-free supplies and regional market gaps, Compass Group India is using cage-free credits to offset a portion of its caged egg purchases. GFP administers the Impact Incentives programme; cage-free credits enable food businesses to directly support egg farmers making a sustainable transition to cage-free production—while helping to build and secure future supply.

Compass Group has initially purchased around 4,000 cage-free credits in India, with each credit offsetting the purchase of 1,000 caged eggs—a total of four million eggs. The funds for this credit purchase go directly to three farms in India to expand their cage-free capacities and invest in their logistics networks.

Via Compass Group Foundation, Compass Group India and other partners have also launched a new cage-free and free-range training centre with GFP as technical partner. The training centre, located outside of Bangalore, will support local farmers in their transitions to cage-free systems, teach best practices in egg production and management, and help farmers achieve long-term sustainability and profitability in their industry. 

“Compass Group India has shown enormous leadership and innovation in not only their own cage-free commitments, but also in driving substantial, foundational change in how eggs are produced and supplied throughout India,” said GFP CEO Elissa Lane. “Their commitment to responsible sourcing extends to the new training centre that meaningfully supports farmers and strengthens the nation’s food system.”

Compass Group has published a complete Animal Welfare Progress Report for 2026 with more details.

Other industry giants that have adopted Impact Incentives as part of their cage-free strategy include KellanovaBest Western HotelsLagardère Travel Retail (PDF) Pizza Express (PDF). By sourcing cage-free eggs whenever possible, and using cage-free credits to address any supply-chain shortfalls, companies can report 100 percent compliance with cage-free mandates. GFP currently focuses on egg production throughout Asia, and has capabilities in Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Latin America.

21, Apr 2026
Rupee Dips Early as Strong Dollar and RBI Policy Shift Pressure Sentiment

Apr 21 (BNP): The Indian rupee weakened in early Tuesday trading, slipping by 16 paise to 93.32 against the US dollar, as the greenback held firm in global markets and recent regulatory changes influenced currency sentiment.

Rupee Dips Early as Strong Dollar and RBI Policy Shift Pressure Sentiment

Traders pointed to the Reserve Bank of India’s move to ease earlier curbs on speculative positions as a key factor behind the rupee’s decline. The central bank had initially introduced restrictions earlier this month to limit excessive volatility in the currency market, including a cap on banks’ exposure to non-deliverable forward (NDF) positions. The partial rollback of those measures appears to have reopened room for increased market activity.

Despite the dip, the rupee found some support from positive momentum in domestic equity markets and continued foreign fund inflows. However, lingering geopolitical concerns—particularly around developments in West Asia—kept investors cautious.

Overall, the currency’s movement reflects a mix of global dollar strength, policy adjustments at home, and an underlying sense of uncertainty in international markets.

21, Apr 2026
LIV Process Recognizes University Health San Antonio’s Denine Temple with First-ever Invisible Hero Award for Outstanding Work in Fight Against C. Diff

PHILADELPHIA, April 21, 2026 – LIV Process, Philadelphia-based biotech, announces Denine Temple, System Director of Environmental Services (EVS) at University Health San Antonio, as the first recipient of the Invisible Hero Award, which honors outstanding work in the fight against C. diff (Clostridioides difficile). With the creation of the Invisible Hero Award, LIV Process continues to draw national attention to one of the most stubborn and costly healthcare-associated infections—and the often-overlooked heroes working to stop the spread of C. diff before it starts. 

“We’re proud to recognize Temple and the EVS teams at University Health San Antonio for their exceptional commitment to stopping the spread of C. diff,” said Michael McIntyre, Founder and CEO of LIV Process. “Our first awardees are working in hospitals and healthcare settings to directly address gaps in infection prevention and cleaning effectiveness.” 

For leadership in advancing infection-prevention protocol in her health system and nationwide, Temple is being recognized along with four University Health San Antonio Environmental Services (EVS) teams, led by: 

  • Bryan Blecha, Director, Ambulatory Sites Team 

  • David Harris, Director, Sky Team 

  • Jaime Rymers, Director, Rio and Horizon Team 

  • A’Neita Sammons, Director, Women’s and Children’s Team 

“I’m honored to accept this award alongside my hardworking colleagues doing the often-invisible work of infection prevention,” said Denine Temple, System Director of Environmental Services, University Hospital San Antonio. 

In addition to University Health San Antonio, LIV Process plans to award other outstanding advocates reducing infections across the United States. LIV Process technology is being applied by EVS personnel across leading US healthcare systems, including Veterans Health Administration hospitals, University of Virginia Health, University of Texas Southwestern, University of Massachusetts, Duke University Medical Center, Cleveland VA, Houston Methodist and Baptist Health. 

21, Apr 2026
Markets Edge Higher Amid Cautious Sentiment

Apr 21 (BNP): Indian equity markets kicked off Tuesday’s session on a mildly positive note, reflecting cautious optimism among investors despite ongoing global geopolitical tensions.

Markets Edge Higher Amid Cautious Sentiment

 At the opening bell, the BSE Sensex rose by over 200 points to reach 78,732.45, marking a gain of 0.27%. Meanwhile, the NSE Nifty 50 edged up slightly to 24,374.55, registering an increase of 0.04%.

The early uptick suggests that market participants are maintaining a balanced stance—encouraged by domestic factors but still wary of uncertainties in the global landscape. Analysts note that while the green opening indicates resilience, volatility could persist throughout the session as investors closely monitor international developments and their potential economic impact.

Overall, the tone remains cautiously positive, with traders expected to stay selective and alert in the near term.

21, Apr 2026
Former MLB Players Lead Ember Sports Mobile App, Bringing Pro-Level Training to Athletes Everywhere

The MLB veterans say platform is a “game changer” for athletes at every level 

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — April 21, 2026 — Sports technology company Ember Sports is bringing professional-level baseball and softball training tools to athletes nationwide through a new mobile app developed in collaboration with former Major League Baseball players and coaches Brady Clark and Damon Mashore. Designed to make advanced player development more accessible, the platform delivers real-time performance insights using a mobile device, eliminating the need for costly hardware or exclusive facility-based systems. 

Clark and Mashore, former MLB outfielders with a combined 18 seasons in the major leagues, now serve in leadership roles at Ember, helping guide the platform’s development and real-world application. Clark is the company’s Chief Operating Officer, while Mashore serves as Chief Integration Officer. Their involvement reflects a broader shift toward making the types of training tools once reserved for professional athletes available to players at every level. 

Leveraging built-in iOS video capture, Ember’s mobile app provides immediate, actionable feedback through tools such as its Hitting and Pitching Analyzers. Athletes can review performance using video replay, telestration and side-by-side comparisons, allowing for deeper analysis of swing mechanics, pitch execution and overall performance. 

The platform also introduces virtual reality capabilities designed to enhance training in ways that are difficult to replicate in traditional environments. A key feature is Ember’s ability to teach pitch tunneling, an advanced skill in which multiple pitches follow the same initial path before breaking differently, making them more difficult for batters to recognize and hit. 

“Teaching hitters how to see the ball the way MLB players do has always been one of the hardest things to train,” Mashore said. “With Ember’s technology, we’re able to simulate that in a meaningful way. That’s a big step forward.” 

With more than 25 million baseball and softball athletes across the United States, access to advanced training tools has often been limited by cost and availability. Ember aims to expand that access with a subscription starting at $12.99 per month, delivering data and insights traditionally available only at the professional level. 

“This is truly disruptive technology because of how easy it is to use and the low-cost barrier,” said Clark. “It opens the door for more players at every level. From the conversations Damon and I have had across our baseball network, the reaction is usually, ‘I can’t believe you guys can do this.’ Especially with VR, no one has been able to teach how we ‘see’ the ball.” 

By removing the need for specialized equipment and training facilities, Ember is expanding access to high-level development tools once reserved for the big leagues. Its virtual reality platform places athletes in customizable environments that simulate live pitching with adjustable speed, movement and location, helping improve pitch recognition, timing and decision-making. 

“You’re either on the forefront of technology or you’re behind the game,” Mashore added. “Being able to deliver this level of insight to players outside of the professional level at such an affordable cost is simply a game changer.” 

With leadership rooted in decades of professional playing and coaching experience, Ember Sports is entering the market with strong credibility and a focus on accessibility, aiming to bring professional-grade training within reach for the next generation of baseball and softball athletes. 

21, Apr 2026
Mumbai Indians Crush Gujarat Titans by 99 Runs as Tilak Varma Stars with Maiden IPL Century

Mumbai, April 21(BNP): Mumbai Indians delivered a commanding all-round performance to secure a resounding 99-run victory over Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2026 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Mumbai Indians Crush Gujarat Titans by 99 Runs as Tilak Varma Stars with Maiden IPL Century

Arriving at a venue that has historically posed challenges and amid a difficult run of form, Mumbai Indians rose to the occasion with a clinical display. The innings was anchored by Tilak Varma, who registered his maiden IPL century with an unbeaten 101 off 45 balls, guiding MI to a formidable 199/5 in 20 overs.

After a measured start—scoring 19 off his first 22 deliveries Tilak Varma shifted gears dramatically, adding 82 runs from his next 23 balls. His knock came at a crucial juncture after early setbacks caused by Kagiso Rabada, and proved pivotal in setting up a challenging total.

In response, Gujarat Titans struggled to build any momentum as Mumbai’s bowlers dominated proceedings from the outset. Early breakthroughs from Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya put the hosts on the back foot, while Ashwani Kumar delivered a standout performance with a four-wicket haul. Support from Mitchell Santner and Allah Ghazanfar ensured Gujarat Titans were bowled out for 100 in 15.5 overs.

Speaking after the match, Tilak Varma said, “The first hundred is always special. It was important for me to spend time at the crease and then play according to the situation. I backed my basics and it paid off.”

Captain Hardik Pandya added, “Winning here is always challenging. This result was much needed for the team and will give us confidence going forward.”

Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, highlighting lapses in the middle overs and inconsistent execution with the ball as key factors behind the defeat.

The result marks Gujarat Titans’ heaviest loss in IPL history, while also providing a significant boost to Mumbai Indians’ campaign. With this emphatic win, Mumbai Indians strengthen their position in the standings and gain crucial momentum for the remainder of the tournament, while Gujarat Titans will look to regroup and address key areas ahead of their upcoming fixtures.

21, Apr 2026
Swaranjali Delhi Presents Shraddhanjali 2026 in Bhubaneswar

A Musical Tribute Dedicated to Guru Late Suramani Bauri Bandhu Sethi

Swaranjali

 

Bhubaneswar, Odisha | Apr 21: Swaranjali Delhi proudly presents Shraddhanjali 2026, a heartfelt evening dedicated to the revered Guru Late Suramani Bauri Bandhu Sethi, in association with Shreyas WebMedia Solutions.

The event will take place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Gita Govinda Sadan, Jayadev Bhawan, Ashok Nagar, Bhubaneswar.

Shraddhanjali 2026 will celebrate the timeless beauty of Indian Classical Music, featuring captivating vocal and instrumental performances by distinguished artists and emerging talents. The program aims to honour the immense contribution of Guru Late Suramani Bauri Bandhu Sethi to Indian classical music and inspire future generations to preserve this rich heritage.

Speaking on the occasion, the organisers shared that the event is envisioned as a tribute filled with devotion, artistry, and gratitude, bringing together music lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and disciples under one roof.

The evening promises to be a soulful experience showcasing tradition, excellence, and the enduring legacy of Indian classical music.

The organisers cordially invite all music patrons, members of the cultural fraternity, and the public to attend this special event.

Event Details:

  • Event: Shraddhanjali 2026
  • Date: June 20, 2026
  • Time: 5:00 PM onwards
  • Venue: Gita Govinda Sadan, Jayadev Bhawan

Program Details:

Group – Indian Classical Music

  • Sitar & Sarod Duet: Shri Jeeban Prakash Das & Shri Sandeep Rout
  • Vocal: Smt. Bilambita Banisudha
  • Sitar: Shri Subrata De

 

RSVP:

9910300319 | 8447507053 | 99370 01349