14, Apr 2026
“Mahi Bhai Told Me to Play My Natural Game”: Ayush Mhatre Reflects on His Journey
Mumbai, April 14: Rising cricket star Ayush Mhatre shared insights into his inspiring journey and recent experiences with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on JioStar’s ‘TATA IPL: Dream On’, highlighting key moments that shaped his career from humble beginnings to playing at the highest level.
At just 18, Mhatre has already made a mark as an ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup-winning captain, a consistent performer in Mumbai’s domestic circuit, and a member of CSK’s playing XI in the Indian Premier League.
Early Beginnings and Cricketing Journey
Recalling his early days, Mhatre spoke about discovering his passion for cricket while playing near his home in Virar with his father. His journey took a defining turn when he joined the academy of Dilip Vengsarkar, setting the foundation for his professional career.
Challenges and Domestic Breakthrough
Mhatre highlighted the challenges of travelling long distances for matches during his early career, describing physically and mentally demanding routines. His breakthrough came when he was selected for Mumbai’s domestic setup at just 17, sharing the dressing room with experienced players like Shardul Thakur and Ajinkya Rahane, which he described as a valuable learning experience.
IPL Journey and Advice from MS Dhoni
Reflecting on his TATA IPL 2025 journey, Mhatre spoke about going unsold at the auction before being picked by CSK as an injury replacement. He recalled his first interaction with MS Dhoni, who advised him to stay true to his natural game.
Speaking on JioStar’s ‘TATA IPL: Dream On’, CSK’s Ayush Mhatre opened up on the start of his cricketing journey:
“There was a little space outside our house, so my father used to bowl to me. It was with a plastic bat and ball. One day, I hit the ball from our house to the terrace of another house. That day, my father realised that I could play. He didn’t want me to become a cricketer, but he wanted me to be involved in sports in some way or another. He wanted me to have a good diet, stay fit, and get tired so that I wouldn’t use my mobile phone after coming back home. Gradually, I started batting well and my father noticed it. However, cricket wasn’t that popular in Virar at that point. So, my father did some research and admitted me to Dilip Vengsarkar sir’s academy in Mumbai. That’s how the journey began.”
On making his red-ball domestic debut for Mumbai at the age of 17:
“From Virar to Churchgate, there were no seats available on the train, so we had to stand. After that, we had to get to the ground, play, and even after hours of batting, there were no seats available on the return journey either. So, we had to stand again and then walk. It was mentally tough. I was playing in the KSC tournament and my performance there was good. I didn’t even know that I was close to selection. I was in Baroda at the time and got a call from the MCA asking for my T-shirt size and jersey number for the Irani Trophy. I can’t describe what that feeling was like. Mumbai cricket has also played a huge role in my journey, especially in terms of getting opportunities. Making it to the Mumbai Ranji Trophy team at such a young age was a huge achievement, because sharing a dressing room with legends like Shardul da and Ajju bhai, and learning from them, was special.”
On TATA IPL 2025 mega auction and subsequent call-up from CSK as an injury replacement:
“The Asia Cup was going on and the auction was happening side by side. It would have been great if I got picked, but even if I didn’t, I didn’t need to feel bad because I had another big target to focus on, which was the Asia Cup. But as they say, things happen for a reason. I was at the NCA when I got a call from CSK. They wanted to see me bat in the nets, so I had a two-day camp with them. I came back to the NCA and two to three days later, I got another call asking me to be ready and inform my family, as they were completing the formalities. They said I could play the next game against LSG, but I couldn’t get a flight ticket. So, I joined the team in Mumbai. The team was very welcoming. During my first interaction with Mahi bhai, he told me that now that I was selected, I should just play my game, go for my shots but not try to hit every ball, and continue doing what I had been doing for the last two to three years.”
On his cricketing idol and the main goal:
“Rohit Sharma is my favourite cricketer. I have been watching his batting since childhood. He spoke to me very nicely after the game in the IPL. That was the first time I met him. He praised my batting, gave me a few tips on playing the short ball, and urged me to continue playing the way I have been. He even said that I could call him anytime without hesitation, and that really helped calm my nerves. Every young cricketer’s dream is to play for India. The moment of wearing the jersey during the Under-19 World Cup was special. I didn’t take any pressure about carrying a legacy or anything like that. My main goal is to play for India, stay in the team for a long time, and perform. Whether it is the Ranji Trophy or the IPL, wherever I get a chance to play, I want to do well and not focus too much on the results; they will follow automatically.”
- 0
- By Neel Achary
14, Apr 2026
Gold ETF Inflows Jump to INR 31,561 Crore in March Quarter Amid Global Uncertainty
Mumbai, Apr 14 (BNP): Investments in Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) saw a sharp rise in the March 2026 quarter, as investors turned to gold for safety amid global uncertainty.
Pic Credit: Pexel
Net inflows into Gold ETFs stood at ₹31,561 crore, nearly six times higher than the same period last year. On a quarterly basis, inflows also rose by about 36%, showing continued demand for gold-backed investments.
Market experts say investors preferred gold during the period due to geopolitical tensions and volatility in financial markets, which boosted its appeal as a safe-haven asset.
Along with higher inflows, the overall size of gold ETF investments and the number of investor accounts also increased during the quarter, indicating growing participation in this segment.
14, Apr 2026
Ambedkar Jayanti 2026: The Enduring Idea of Equality and Justice in India
Apr 14 (BNP): Every year on April 14, India observes Ambedkar Jayanti, marking the birth of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar—a figure whose influence goes far beyond history books and constitutional pages.
It is a day when India pauses to remember not just a leader, but an idea: that dignity is not granted by society—it is an inherent right of every human being.
From Exclusion to Enlightenment
Born in 1891 in Mhow, Dr. Ambedkar’s early life was shaped by the harsh realities of caste discrimination. Yet, rather than accepting limitation, he turned education into a lifelong instrument of resistance.
His academic journey took him from India to some of the world’s most respected universities, shaping a mind that would later challenge both social injustice and institutional inequality with equal force.
The Making of India’s Constitutional Foundation
As Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly, Dr. Ambedkar became one of the principal architects of the Constitution of India.
He did not treat the Constitution as a legal document alone, but as a moral contract between citizens and the state. His vision ensured that India’s democracy would rest on four pillars—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
A Revolutionary Who Worked Through Law
Unlike many reformers who worked outside systems, Ambedkar worked from within them—using law as a tool for transformation.
As India’s first Minister of Law and Justice, he pushed for reforms that strengthened constitutional rights and expanded protections for historically marginalized communities. His belief was simple yet powerful: political independence has little meaning without social equality.
A Voice That Refused to Fade
Ambedkar’s writings remain among the most powerful critiques of caste and social hierarchy in modern India. He challenged not only discrimination, but also the silence that allowed it to persist.
His call to action—“Educate, Agitate, Organize”—continues to echo as a framework for empowerment, urging people to think critically, act collectively, and demand justice.
Recognition That Came Later, but Lasts Forever
In 1990, Dr. Ambedkar was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.
The recognition formally acknowledged what millions already believed—that his contribution to the nation was foundational, not symbolic. It was a moment that placed his legacy firmly within the country’s highest national memory.
Ambedkar Jayanti: A Living Tradition
Today, Ambedkar Jayanti is observed across India with deep respect and participation from all sections of society. Public gatherings, discussions, and tributes take place nationwide, with major commemorations at Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai.
The day is often called “Equality Day,” reflecting the continuing relevance of his mission in contemporary India.
In 2026, marking his 135th birth anniversary, the occasion carries added significance as the nation reflects on both progress achieved and challenges that remain.
Why Ambedkar Still Feels Contemporary
Ambedkar’s ideas are not frozen in time. They continue to shape conversations around rights, representation, and justice in modern India.
His insistence on constitutional morality remains especially relevant in a rapidly changing society where institutions are constantly tested by new social and political realities.
A Legacy That Lives Beyond Time
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s legacy lives not only in statues and commemorations, but in everyday freedoms often taken for granted—the right to vote, to be heard, and to live with dignity.
Ambedkar Jayanti is ultimately not just remembrance—it is renewal. A reminder that the idea of India is strongest when it belongs equally to everyone.
14, Apr 2026
SPEXA 2026: Bringing Global Space Leaders Together to Unlock New Business Horizons
|
|
|
|
14, Apr 2026
Timex Introduces the New iConnect Alpha Range
New Delhi, April 14: In an era where endless scrolling dominates social media, Mad Monkey AI is taking a different approach by inviting students to help build a more purposeful alternative. The company has announced the upcoming launch of its social platform and opened early access through a pre-launch waitlist. The initial rollout will focus exclusively on student communities, placing them at the centre of the platform’s evolution. This marks the beginning of a student-led movement to redefine social media toward more intentional and meaningful engagement.
At the heart of this initiative is the Founding Campus Founders programme. Each participating college will onboard a select group of early student leaders who will play a direct role in shaping how the platform develops. These builders will initiate and lead Sparks, which are collaborative, project-based interactions within the app, while also fostering active campus communities around shared ideas and execution.
Speaking on the announcement, Lakshman Devarajan, Founder and CEO of Mad Monkey AI said,
“We are building this platform with a clear focus on how students actually want to use their time and ideas. The early response has shown that students want more than passive engagement. They want to contribute and be recognised for what they build. That is why we have opened up the process at this stage itself. The Campus Founders are helping define the platform. Their inputs are already shaping product decisions, and this will continue as we scale across campuses. We see this as a long-term build with the community at the centre of it.”
To support the rollout, Mad Monkey AI has initiated a campus-focused campaign in which student creators and influencers are introducing the platform within their networks. As part of these early community-building efforts, the company has onboarded 25 student influencers across 5 major cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai. This initial campaign has already generated 550+ waitlist sign-ups, primarily from students across colleges and universities. The initiative encourages students to sign up for the waitlist and engage with the concept early, helping to build momentum ahead of the official launch.
The campaign centres on a clear call to action that encourages students to move from passive consumption to active participation by starting or joining Sparks. These Sparks enable users to collaborate with peers to build tangible outcomes such as concepts, solutions, or shared initiatives. Early examples of such collaborations will be showcased to give prospective users a clear understanding of how the platform is intended to be used.
Inputs from Campus Founders and early users are being actively reviewed, with high-engagement ideas considered for direct implementation into the platform. Mad Monkey AI is currently in discussions with multiple colleges and universities for early partnerships as part of its Founding Campus Founder Program. Contributors whose ideas are adopted will be visibly recognised within the product and across official channels. This includes attribution within feature sections, visibility on the platform, and public acknowledgement of their role in building the ecosystem. The co-creation model is designed to foster a strong sense of ownership and provide tangible recognition that extends beyond traditional campus programmes.
With the waitlist now live and campus-level engagement underway, Mad Monkey AI is preparing for a phased rollout, beginning with its early contributor base before expanding access more widely. Mad Monkey AI has also been selected for the Idea Factory program by Startup Virginia, further validating the company’s vision and early traction. The initiative reflects the company’s broader vision of reimagining social media as a space for purposeful collaboration, creativity, and real-world value.
14, Apr 2026
China’s Exports Edge Up 2.5 pc in March, Driven by Tech and Semiconductor Demand
Apr 14 (BNP): China’s exports rose 2.5% in March compared to a year earlier, reflecting a steady but uneven recovery in external demand amid a challenging global trade environment.
The uptick was supported largely by stronger shipments of technology-related goods, with particular momentum seen in the semiconductor and electronics segments. Rising global demand for advanced chips—used in artificial intelligence systems, data infrastructure, and industrial applications—helped offset weaker performance in some traditional export categories.
Pic Credit: Pexel
While overall growth remains moderate, the data points to China’s continued strength in high-value manufacturing and its deep integration into global tech supply chains. Exporters have also been increasingly redirecting shipments toward emerging markets, helping cushion the impact of softer demand in some developed economies.
At the same time, analysts note that global trade conditions remain mixed, with geopolitical uncertainties and uneven consumption trends influencing order flows. However, the latest figures suggest that technology exports continue to act as a stabilizing force for China’s external sector.
Imports also showed signs of improvement, indicating steady domestic industrial activity and ongoing demand for raw materials and components.
Overall, the March data reflects a cautiously improving trade picture, with high-tech exports emerging as the key driver of resilience in China’s economy.
14, Apr 2026
Markets Closed for Ambedkar Jayanti; Trading to Resume on April 15
Mumbai, Apr 14 (BNP): Indian financial markets remained shut on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in observance of Ambedkar Jayanti, marking the birth anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
The closure applies to major exchanges including the National Stock Exchange of India and the Bombay Stock Exchange, with trading suspended across equity, derivatives, and currency segments. The forex market also remained closed for the day in line with the holiday schedule.
According to the official trading calendar, normal market activity is set to resume on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
Commodity exchanges observed a partial holiday, with morning trading sessions remaining closed, while evening operations are expected to reopen as per standard schedule.
The market holiday provided a pause in trading activity across segments, aligning with the nationwide observance of Ambedkar Jayanti.
14, Apr 2026
No Power Disconnections During Heatwave, Announces K. V. Singh Deo
Bhubaneswar, Apr 14 (BNP): In a major relief to residents amid soaring summer temperatures, the Odisha government has announced that no electricity connections will be disconnected for non-payment of dues during the ongoing heatwave.
The directive was issued by Deputy Chief Minister K. V. Singh Deo to the state’s Energy Department and power distribution companies (DISCOMs), emphasizing the need to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the peak summer months.
According to the order, domestic consumers across the state will continue to receive power even if their bills remain unpaid, at least until the onset of the monsoon. The government has strictly instructed that no household connection should be cut on grounds of pending dues during this period.
In addition, the Deputy CM has prohibited DISCOMs from carrying out any unannounced power cuts linked to non-payment, underlining that such actions would not be tolerated during extreme weather conditions.
The move comes as temperatures continue to rise across Odisha, increasing dependence on electricity for cooling and essential household needs. The government’s decision is aimed at safeguarding public welfare and ensuring that citizens are not left without power during the intense heatwave.
Officials stated that further decisions regarding dues recovery and billing will be taken after weather conditions improve.
14, Apr 2026
SWITCH Mobility completes India’s largest electric bus export to Mauritius
Chandigarh, April 14: SWITCH Mobility, a global manufacturer of electric buses and light commercial vehicles, part of the Hinduja Group, has completed the delivery of 100 electric buses to the Government of Mauritius, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between India and Mauritius in advancing sustainable public transportation.
The final lot of 90 buses were handed over by External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S Jaishankar to the Prime Minister of Mauritius, Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam as part of a broader Government-led engagement involving senior dignitaries from both nations. The buses were delivered through an open tender conducted by Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) in India and are operated by the National Transport Corporation (NTC), Mauritius’ state-owned public transport operator.
This deployment represents the largest export of electric buses from India. The delivery follows a government to government arrangement, under which the 100 electric buses are being provided as a donation from the Government of India to the Government of Mauritius to promote clean mobility in the country. The initiative aims to support the modernization and sustainability of public transportation in Mauritius.
Designed for efficient public transportation, the SWITCH EiV12 integrates advanced engineering with intelligent technology to deliver high reliability, operational efficiency, and superior passenger comfort. With spacious seating for up to 45 passengers, the ergonomically optimized and meticulously manufactured bus meets global standards in performance, safety, durability, and reliability, making it ideal for modern urban commutes. Powered by SWITCH iON, the company’s proprietary telematics system, it enables real-time vehicle health monitoring, intelligent transport management, and fleet optimization. Floor-mounted lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries provide a low centre of gravity for improved stability. Additionally, a rear dual-gun charging interface supports faster turnaround times and efficient depot operations.
Commenting on the completion of the order, Mr. Ganesh Mani, CEO, Switch Mobility, said,
“Mauritius is taking meaningful strides towards building a cleaner and more sustainable public transport system, and we are proud to be part of this journey. The completion of this 100-bus delivery marks an important milestone in strengthening the country’s transition to electric mobility, with tangible benefits for urban efficiency, environmental sustainability, and everyday commuter experience. As a global EV manufacturer building in India for the world, Switch Mobility remains committed to supporting Mauritius in shaping a greener, more resilient, and future-ready transport ecosystem.”
The deployment aligns with broader environmental and urban development goals in Mauritius, focusing on reducing emissions and improving public transit efficiency. This export is seen as a milestone in SWITCH Mobility’s efforts to expand into global markets.
14, Apr 2026
Instamart and Kalyan Jewellers Enable Customers to Lock Today’s Gold Price for Akshaya Tritiya
Chandigarh, Apr 14: This Akshaya Tritiya, jewellers are making it easier for gold buyers to plan ahead despite changing prices. Instamart, India’s pioneering quick commerce platform, has partnered with Kalyan Jewellers to facilitate Gold Rate Protection, a first-of-its-kind feature that lets consumers lock today’s gold rate and buy on the day of Akshaya Tritiya, for whichever price is lower the lock-in price or the market rate on that day.
Gold holds enduring significance during Akshaya Tritiya, symbolising prosperity and auspicious beginnings. As customers plan their purchases in the lead-up to the festival, ease and assurance become equally important. Instamart’s Gold Rate Protection, makes it both convenient and reassuring for users ordering BIS hallmarked gold coins from Kalyan Jewellers.
How It Works
Between April 10 and April 16, 2026, consumers can select eligible Kalyan Jewellers gold coins on the Instamart app and pay 5% advance, starting from ₹500 for a 0.5 gm gold coin to prebook and take delivery on Akshaya Tritiya. On April 19, between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM IST, they complete their purchase at the lower of the two prices – gold rate on the day of pre-booking or as per delivery date, whichever is lower. All prebook customers will also receive a free silver coin from Kalyan Jewellers.
Arjun Choudhary, VP Growth, Instamart,
“At Instamart, we’ve consistently looked to innovate around how Indians shop for precious metals during key occasions, from delivering 1 kg silver bricks during Dhanteras to introducing silver Rakhis for Raksha Bandhan. The gold Rate protection is a feature designed to help consumers navigate gold prices with greater confidence during the festival. By allowing users to secure a price in advance while still benefiting from any price drops, we strive to offer strong overall value to consumers. This is quick commerce going beyond convenience to deliver meaningful value on culturally significant purchases.”
Ramesh Kalyanaraman, Executive Director, Kalyan Jewellers,
“Gold rate protection has been a preferred feature across Kalyan Jewellers’ retail showrooms, offering customers greater assurance while planning their festive purchases. With Instamart, we are extending this for the first time to a quick commerce platform. As traditions evolve, we remain committed to making gold buying both meaningful and seamless.”
Last year, Instamart witnessed a surge of over 500% in gold and silver coin sales on Akshaya Tritiya compared to Dhanteras, underlining the growing appetite among Indian consumers for quick commerce as a trusted channel for auspicious purchases.
This initiative is the latest in Instamart’s continued effort to go beyond everyday essentials, cementing its role as a destination for meaningful, occasion-led purchases delivered with the speed and trust its customers have come to rely on.
All gold and complimentary silver coins are BIS Hallmarked, 24 Karat Kalyan Jewellers gold coins, will be subject to availability and subject to the terms of the offering.
