18, Apr 2026
Husker Research Provides Irrigation Rules to Save Water, Increase Profits
As water supplies shrink and food demand grows, new interdisciplinary research from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers a practical way for farmers to manage irrigation more efficiently while protecting their bottom line.
“Agriculture uses about 70% of the world’s freshwater, and nearly 40% of food production depends on irrigated land,” said Erkut Sönmez, associate professor of supply chain management and analytics at Nebraska. “With water supplies declining in many regions, finding more efficient ways to irrigate crops has become critical.”
To determine the soil moisture thresholds that signal when irrigation should begin and end under varying weather and soil conditions, Sönmez teamed up with Derek Heeren, professor of biological systems engineering and irrigation engineer at Nebraska, and Baris Ata, Sigmund E. Edelstone Distinguished Service Professor of Operations Management and Applied AI at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business.
Their paper, “Dynamic Irrigation Management Under Weather Uncertainty and Soil Heterogeneity” published in the journal Manufacturing and Service Operations Management in March.
“We introduced simple, smart irrigation rules that help farmers decide exactly when to water their crops and when to stop,” Sönmez said. “Instead of relying on guesswork, farmers can monitor soil moisture and irrigate only when it drops below a certain level and apply an optimum depth of water. The system works much like a thermostat, automatically maintaining the right balance.”
The researchers found their irrigation strategies can increase farmers’ profits while reducing water use compared with traditional practices.
“Even more importantly, the benefits grow stronger as water becomes scarcer, making these methods especially valuable in drought-prone regions. For farmers looking to stay profitable while conserving resources, these results point toward a new sustainable solution,” Heeren said.
Sönmez also noted how the research demonstrates the value of interdisciplinary collaboration.
“Our research combines ideas from supply chain management and agriculture to help farmers make better decisions,” Sönmez said. “In particular, we adapted inventory management policies used to manage products in a warehouse to instead manage water in the soil, which has never been done before.”
To test the approach, the researchers compared their irrigation policies with traditional practices through extensive computer simulations using historical farm conditions, soil characteristics, weather patterns and economic factors.
“The next step is to take these insights from the computer to the field and repeat our comparison on actual corn and soybean fields in upcoming growing seasons,” Heeren said.
Beyond irrigation, the researchers plan to apply similar analytical and data-driven approaches to help farmers in other areas of farm management, such as nitrogen fertilizer.
“This work shows how methods from one field can be applied in entirely new ways,” Sönmez said. “I look forward to continuing to combine these disciplines to improve efficiency and sustainability across a wide range of agricultural applications.”
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- By Neel Achary
18, Apr 2026
Chhattisgarh to Build 774 Rural Roads Under PMGSY to Boost Connectivity
Jashpur, Apr 18 (BNP): The Government of Chhattisgarh has launched a major rural infrastructure push with the foundation stone laying for 774 roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), aimed at strengthening last-mile connectivity across the state.
The initiative was inaugurated by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who said the project reflects the government’s strong focus on rural development and improving the quality of life in villages.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The proposed road network spans a total length of 2,426.875 kilometres, with an estimated investment of around ₹2,225 crore. Once completed, the project is expected to connect nearly 781 rural habitations, ensuring all-weather road access for remote communities.
Officials said the improved connectivity will play a key role in enhancing access to education, healthcare, and markets, while also supporting rural economic activity and mobility.
The Chief Minister noted that PMGSY, originally launched during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, has become a key driver of rural transformation. He added that continued infrastructure expansion under various central and state schemes has significantly improved village-level connectivity across Chhattisgarh.
The state government also highlighted ongoing work under major national projects, including highway corridors aimed at improving regional trade and connectivity.
Alongside infrastructure development, the government is implementing several welfare measures for farmers, including enhanced support for agricultural credit societies, procurement at assured prices, and financial assistance schemes. Officials said these initiatives are aimed at strengthening the rural economy and improving farmer incomes.
The construction of the 774 roads is expected to begin soon, marking another step toward expanding rural connectivity and accelerating development in the state.
18, Apr 2026
Massive Kisan Support Drive in Odisha on Akshaya Tritiya Festival
Odisha to Disburse CM-Kisan Assistance to Over 41 Lakh Farmers on Akshaya Tritiya
Bhubaneswar, Apr 18 (BNP): On the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya on April 20, the Government of Odisha will provide financial assistance under the CM-Kisan scheme to more than 41.68 lakh farmers as part of the ‘Akhi Muthi Anukula’ programme.
The state-level event will be held at the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) in Cuttack, coinciding with State Farmers’ Day. The initiative is aimed at supporting farmers ahead of the upcoming Kharif season by ensuring timely financial aid for agricultural activities.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will oversee the disbursement of assistance to eligible beneficiaries. The programme will also see the participation of the Deputy Chief Minister and several ministers, who will attend both the central and district-level events organised across the state.
In addition to the main function in Cuttack, simultaneous programmes will be held in various districts to ensure wider outreach and smooth distribution of benefits. Ministers have been assigned to different districts to supervise the implementation of the initiative at the grassroots level.
The large-scale disbursement is expected to provide significant support to farmers at a crucial time in the agricultural calendar, helping them prepare for the Kharif cropping season.
Overall, the initiative reflects the state government’s continued focus on strengthening farmer welfare and ensuring direct financial support reaches cultivators in a timely and efficient manner.
18, Apr 2026
‘Bou Buttu Bhuta’, ‘Ananta’ Bring Glory to Odia Film Industry
Bhubaneswar, Apr 18(BNP): Odia cinema delivered a standout performance at the Indian National Cinema Academy (INCA) Awards 2026, strengthening its growing presence on the national film stage.
The film Bou Buttu Bhuta emerged as one of the top winners of the evening, securing three major honours, including Best Odia Film. Lead performances by Babushaan Mohanty and Archita Sahu were recognised with Best Actor and Best Actress (Odia) awards, respectively.
Another Odia film, Ananta, also received national recognition, with Sabyasachi Mohapatra and Kumar C. Dev Mohapatra winning Best Director for their work, further highlighting the creative depth emerging from the industry.
The success of these films reflects the steady evolution of Odia cinema, which is increasingly gaining visibility beyond regional audiences. Improved storytelling, stronger production values, and wider reach have helped Odia films connect with a broader national audience.
The recognition at INCA 2026 underscores a positive shift for regional cinema, where Odia films are steadily earning a place alongside other major Indian film industries on prestigious national platforms.
Overall, the awards mark another step forward for Odia cinema’s growing reputation and its continued journey toward wider recognition in India’s entertainment landscape.
18, Apr 2026
Government Strengthens Norms Committees to Enhance Ease of Doing Business for Exporters
New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): The Government of India has taken a series of targeted reforms to improve trade facilitation and strengthen the functioning of Norms Committees under the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), in line with its broader commitment to Ease of Doing Business for exporters.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The reforms aim to make decision-making faster, more transparent, and more efficient for export-related processes. By improving the functioning of Norms Committees, the government seeks to reduce delays in approvals and simplify procedural requirements faced by exporters.
These committees play a key role in setting and reviewing input-output norms, which determine the quantity of raw materials required for producing export goods. Streamlining their functioning is expected to help exporters receive quicker clarifications and approvals, thereby improving operational efficiency.
The initiative is also intended to strengthen India’s export ecosystem by reducing compliance burden and improving predictability in trade procedures. This is expected to benefit businesses, especially small and medium exporters, by making processes more responsive and business-friendly.
Overall, the reforms reflect the government’s continued focus on improving trade facilitation, enhancing administrative efficiency, and supporting exporters in accessing global markets more effectively.
18, Apr 2026
India’s Startup Boom Accelerates with 55,000 New Recognitions
New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): The Government of India has announced that more than 55,200 startups were recognised in FY2025–26, marking the highest annual figure since the launch of the Startup India initiative in 2016.
Launched on 16 January 2016, the Startup India programme was designed to build a strong ecosystem for innovation, encourage private investment, and support entrepreneurs through targeted policy measures and financial incentives.
Strong expansion in jobs and ecosystem growth
Since its inception, the initiative has supported the creation of over 2.23 lakh recognised startups as of March 2026, which together have generated more than 23.36 lakh direct jobs across the country.
The latest data shows a sharp year-on-year rise, with startup recognitions increasing by 51.6% compared to FY2024–25. During the same period, direct employment generated by startups rose by 36.1%, reflecting their growing contribution to India’s job market.
Startups are now present across all States and Union Territories, with major hubs including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Gujarat leading in both startup numbers and employment generation.
Women-led participation and inclusivity
The ecosystem has also become more inclusive, with over 1.07 lakh startups having at least one woman director or partner, accounting for nearly 48% of all recognised startups, highlighting increasing participation of women in entrepreneurship.
State-wise startup distribution highlights
Leading states continue to dominate the startup landscape:
- Maharashtra leads with over 38,000 startups
- Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh each have over 21,000 startups
- Delhi and Gujarat also remain key innovation hubs
These states also account for a large share of employment generated by startups, reinforcing regional centres of innovation.
Government support and funding push
The government continues to strengthen the ecosystem through flagship schemes such as:
- Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS)
- Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
- Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS)
Under FFS, over ₹7,000 crore has been disbursed to Alternative Investment Funds, which have further invested in more than 1,420 startups. A new expanded fund with a corpus of ₹10,000 crore has also been introduced to sustain long-term startup financing.
Under SISFS, over ₹605 crore has been approved for more than 3,400 startups, while CGSS has facilitated loans worth over ₹1,250 crore to improve access to credit for emerging businesses.
Innovation and intellectual property growth
Startup-led innovation has also accelerated significantly, with more than 19,400 patent applications filed. Patent filings have seen strong growth, rising sharply in FY2025–26 compared to the previous year, reflecting increasing focus on technology and intellectual property creation.
Outlook
The rapid expansion of India’s startup ecosystem underscores its growing role as a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and employment generation. With continued policy support and rising entrepreneurial activity, startups are increasingly shaping India’s transition toward a knowledge-driven and innovation-led economy.
18, Apr 2026
Indian Premier League 2026: Gujarat Titans Clinch Thrilling Win Over Kolkata Knight Riders; Shubman Gill Shines with Match-Winning Knock
Ahmedabad, April 18 (BNP): The Gujarat Titans registered a thrilling five-wicket victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders in a gripping encounter in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
Chasing a target of 181, Gujarat Titans displayed composure under pressure, successfully reaching 181/5 in 19.4 overs. Skipper Shubman Gill led from the front with a masterful 86 off 50 balls, anchoring the innings and guiding his team to victory with just two balls to spare. His outstanding performance also saw him reclaim the Orange Cap and earn the Player of the Match award.
Earlier in the match, Kolkata Knight Riders posted a competitive total of 180/8 after being put in to bat. Cameron Green top-scored with a resilient 79 off 55 balls, stabilizing the innings after an inconsistent start. He was well supported by Rovman Powell, who contributed 27 off 20 deliveries.
Gujarat Titans’ bowling unit delivered a disciplined performance, with Kagiso Rabada leading the attack with figures of 3/29, while Mohammed Siraj chipped in with 2/23 to restrict KKR from posting a bigger total.
In response, Gujarat Titans got off to a brisk start during the Powerplay. Despite losing Sai Sudharsan early, Gill steadied the chase with crucial partnerships alongside Jos Buttler and Washington Sundar, ensuring the momentum stayed with the home side.
Although Kolkata Knight Riders managed to pick up wickets in the middle overs, the Titans maintained their composure and executed a calculated chase to seal the win in the final over.
This victory propels Gujarat Titans into the top four of the IPL 2026 points table, strengthening their campaign, while Kolkata Knight Riders will look to regroup after another hard-fought contest.
18, Apr 2026
India’s Gold Market Shows Resilience Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, Investment Demand Rises
New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): Gold demand in India is expected to remain resilient ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, supported by cultural traditions, shifting consumer preferences, and continued interest in precious metals as a safe-haven asset amid global uncertainty.
The outlook comes as gold prices have risen significantly over the past year, with industry estimates indicating an increase of around 14–16% year-to-date and a much sharper rise compared to the same festive period last year. Despite higher prices, demand has not weakened, but has instead adjusted in form and buying patterns.
Market participants note that Akshaya Tritiya continues to be one of the most important gold-buying occasions in India, symbolising prosperity and long-term value creation. While volatility in global markets has influenced short-term sentiment, periods of price stability and mild corrections are encouraging steady retail participation.
Industry voices highlight a clear shift in consumer behaviour. Traditional jewellery demand remains strong, but buyers are increasingly opting for lightweight jewellery, coins, and bars, where value is closely tied to purity and metal content. Investment demand is also expanding, with growing interest in digital gold and gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs), reflecting a more structured approach to wealth creation.
Silver is also gaining attention, supported not only by investment demand but also by industrial usage in sectors such as renewable energy and electronics, adding a new layer of long-term demand strength.
Platforms are also leveraging festive sentiment to engage consumers. Financial services companies such as BharatPe have introduced campaign-based initiatives like the ‘Akshaya Tritiya Gold Mahotsav’, offering rewards and incentives on digital gold purchases, reflecting the increasing digitisation of gold investment.
Experts expect near-term price fluctuations to continue, influenced by global macroeconomic conditions, currency movements, and geopolitical developments. However, the broader outlook for precious metals remains supported by sustained central bank buying, portfolio diversification trends, and gold’s continued role as a hedge against uncertainty.
Overall, the market outlook suggests that while buying patterns are evolving, gold and silver continue to hold a strong position in both cultural and investment portfolios across India.
18, Apr 2026
India’s Power Demand Recovery to Fuel Renewable Energy Expansion
New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): Jefferies has projected a significant expansion in India’s renewable energy capacity, estimating it could reach around 359 GW between FY25 and FY30. The outlook reflects a growing emphasis on energy security, evolving demand patterns, and continued policy support for clean energy development.
According to the report, India’s power demand is expected to recover strongly, with growth potentially reaching around 6% by FY27, supported by improving industrial activity and broader economic normalization. Seasonal and climatic factors are also expected to influence consumption trends in the coming years.
Weather conditions linked to a likely El Niño phase during the upcoming monsoon season could further impact electricity usage. Lower rainfall typically increases demand from households and agriculture, where electricity is widely used for cooling, irrigation, and pumping activities.
While renewable energy remains a central pillar of India’s long-term energy strategy, the country continues to expand thermal capacity to ensure grid stability and meet rising demand. Additional thermal power projects are planned over the next decade to support a balanced and reliable energy mix.
The report also highlights strong momentum in domestic solar manufacturing, supported by government-led initiatives such as rooftop solar programs and agricultural solar pump schemes. These initiatives are increasing installed capacity while encouraging greater use of locally manufactured components.
Policy measures aimed at strengthening domestic production of key solar materials, including ingots and wafers, are expected to further deepen backward integration in the renewable energy supply chain. However, the capital-intensive nature of these investments may favour companies with strong financial capacity.
Overall, the report suggests that India’s energy transition will be shaped by a combination of rising demand, policy support, manufacturing growth, and the need to maintain energy security in a changing global environment.
18, Apr 2026
India, Austria launch fast-track system to boost investment ties
New Delhi, Apr 18 (BNP): India and Austria have jointly introduced a bilateral fast-track mechanism aimed at improving investment flows and strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.
The newly launched system is designed to support businesses and investors by providing a structured platform to address challenges, streamline processes, and enhance the overall ease of doing business. It will enable companies from both countries to raise concerns, seek quicker resolutions, and engage directly with relevant authorities.
The mechanism is expected to reduce procedural delays and create a more efficient and predictable investment environment. It also encourages the exchange of suggestions between the two sides to further improve regulatory frameworks and business conditions.
A fast-track mechanism refers to a dedicated system that accelerates approvals and resolves issues faced by investors in a timely manner. By simplifying procedures and improving coordination, it helps businesses operate more smoothly and with greater confidence.
This initiative marks a significant step toward deepening bilateral economic ties and fostering greater collaboration between businesses in India and Austria.
