Category Archives: News

Planned Dismantling of Ocean Observational System is Devastating Blow to Science, American Economy and Disaster Readiness

WASHINGTON [June 3, 2026] – The Trump administration has announced that it plans to dismantle the Ocean Observatories Initiative, a deep-ocean observation system that provides essential data to monitor coastal environments, marine ecosystems and powerful currents that shape the world’s climate. The move comes on the brink of what is expected to be one of the worst El Niño cycles in a century, which will require careful monitoring of ocean conditions to understand implications for marine wildlife, fisheries and coastal communities.

Chris Robbins, Ocean Conservancy’s associate director of scientific initiatives said “Walking away from a $368-million investment in a state-of-the-art system, a feat of engineering already paid for by the American people, is absolutely myopic. This system is a vital scientific asset that quietly protects American lives, communities and the economy through unfettered access to world-class scientific data. Its loss would create an irreparable blind spot for our country in predicting earthquakes, fishery health, storm forecasting, coastal flooding and more. It just doesn’t make sense.”

Odisha Among Four States Chosen for Critical Mineral Processing Plants Under National Mission

Bhubaneswar, June 2 (BNP): In a major boost to India’s push for self-reliance in strategic resources, the Centre has selected Odisha among four states for the establishment of critical mineral value processing plants under the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM).

Representational image

The proposed facilities, also planned in Gujarat, Telangana and Maharashtra, are aimed at strengthening India’s domestic capabilities in processing and refining critical minerals that are essential for sectors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, semiconductors, defence and advanced manufacturing.

Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy said the initiative forms part of the Centre’s long-term strategy to reduce import dependence and build a robust domestic supply chain for minerals considered strategically important for economic growth and technological advancement.

Under the National Critical Mineral Mission, the government has already undertaken large-scale auctions of critical mineral blocks and, for the first time since Independence, created separate mining blocks dedicated to strategic minerals. Officials said several mineral blocks have already been successfully auctioned, marking significant progress in securing domestic access to key resources.

As part of the next phase of the mission, the Centre is moving ahead with the establishment of value processing plants in the four selected states. Land for the proposed facilities has reportedly been allotted by respective state governments, while local administrations are preparing action plans to support project implementation.

The government has also signed multiple memorandums of understanding with several countries to strengthen international cooperation and secure global supply chains for critical minerals.

The upcoming plants are expected to significantly enhance India’s mineral processing and refining capacity — an area where the country has traditionally relied heavily on imports and overseas facilities. Odisha’s inclusion is seen as particularly significant given the state’s vast mineral reserves and strong industrial ecosystem, with the project expected to boost investment, industrial growth and employment opportunities.

No Facebook, Instagram for Under-16s: Malaysia Begins Social Media Crackdown

Kuala Lumpur, June 2 (BNP): Malaysia on Monday began enforcing new regulations prohibiting children under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining social media accounts, marking a major step in the country’s effort to strengthen online safety for minors.

Representational image

Under the new rules, major platforms with at least eight million users in Malaysia — including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube — are required to implement age-verification systems and prevent underage users from opening accounts. Authorities said existing users identified as younger than 16 will be given a one-month period to download or transfer personal data, including photos and videos, before restrictions take effect.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said the age-verification mechanism for current users will be introduced in phases over the next six months. Companies that fail to comply with the regulations could face fines of up to 10 million ringgit (approximately $2.5 million).

The government said the move is aimed at shielding children from cyberbullying, harmful online content and addictive platform features that encourage excessive screen time. Officials clarified that the restrictions are not intended to cut children off from digital technology but to create safer online environments and hold platforms accountable for protecting younger users.

Malaysia joins a growing list of countries, including Australia, Brazil and Indonesia, that are imposing age-based restrictions on children’s social media access. Nations such as Britain, France, Spain, Denmark, Thailand and South Korea are also exploring similar regulatory measures.

However, the move has triggered mixed reactions among families and digital rights experts. Some parents welcomed the decision, arguing that children lack the emotional maturity to safely navigate social media and benefit more from offline activities and supervised screen time.

Others expressed concern that the restrictions may be too rigid and could push teenagers toward unregulated digital spaces. Critics also raised questions about privacy, warning that mandatory age verification may require sensitive personal information and increase risks related to data protection and surveillance.

Technology companies are yet to clarify how they will implement the regulations, while experts say the effectiveness of the law may depend on enforcement mechanisms and whether families can bypass restrictions through parental accounts or alternative access methods.

ITR-2 Filing Begins for AY 2026–27; Taxpayers Urged to Meet July 31 Deadline

New Delhi, June 2 (BNP): The Income Tax Department has enabled online filing of ITR-2 for Assessment Year (AY) 2026–27 on the e-filing portal, allowing eligible taxpayers to begin submitting returns for income earned during Financial Year (FY) 2025–26. The deadline for filing ITR-2 for individual taxpayers remains July 31, 2026.

Representational image

ITR-2 is applicable to individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who do not earn income from business or profession but have more complex income sources, including capital gains from stocks or mutual funds, rental income from multiple properties, foreign assets or overseas income, and income exceeding prescribed eligibility for simpler tax forms. Tax experts say taxpayers with capital market transactions or additional properties should carefully verify whether ITR-2 applies to them instead of ITR-1.

Experts have cautioned taxpayers against common filing mistakes that frequently trigger notices or delays in processing. Mismatches between income disclosures and records available in the Annual Information Statement (AIS), Form 26AS, bank account details, tax deductions, and capital gains reporting are among the most common reasons for scrutiny. Reviewing pre-filled information before submission is considered essential for error-free filing.

Missing the July 31 deadline may result in late filing fees of up to ₹5,000 and could impact a taxpayer’s ability to carry forward eligible capital losses for future tax adjustments. Tax professionals are advising individuals to gather relevant financial documents, reconcile statements, and complete filing well ahead of the deadline to avoid last-minute complications.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem hails Monaco F1 GP as one of the ‘great jewels’ of world motorsport

Monte Carlo race provides a powerful reminder of what makes this sport so special – Ben Sulayem

Dubai, UAE, June 2: H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, says a unique combination of attributes make this weekend’s FIA Formula 1 Louis Vuitton Grand Prix de Monaco one of the most prestigious and iconic events on the global motorsport calendar.

Ben Sulayem will be in attendance as Monte Carlo’s spectacular street circuit delivers another demanding test of driver skill, technical precision, and operational excellence.

Sunday’s race will mark the first European round of the season, underlining Monaco’s enduring importance as the FIA Formula One World Championship enters a new regulatory era.

FIA President Ben Sulayem, said: “The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the great jewels of world motorsport. It represents heritage, excellence, precision and passion, and continues to capture the imagination of fans across the world.

“As the Championship enters an important new chapter in 2026, Monaco provides a powerful reminder of what makes this sport so special: world-class drivers, cutting-edge engineering, committed teams, and the extraordinary work of officials, volunteers and organisers who make racing possible.”

Sharing his appreciation for the many people involved in making such an iconic event possible, Ben Sulayem said: “Every race weekend depends on the dedication of FIA officials, local organisers, volunteers, marshals, teams and partners.

“Monaco is one of the most complex events in world motorsport to deliver, and I want to thank everyone whose professionalism and commitment ensures it remains a benchmark for excellence.”

As The FIA Formula One World Championship continues to grow globally, the FIA remains focused on strengthening its long-term, ensuring world-class competition, advancing safety and sustainability, and supporting the continued development of motorsport at every level.

transcosmos launches an internal program that spreads sustainable values within the community in Vietnam

Tokyo, Japan, June 2: In Vietnam, transcosmos runs an internal program to spread sustainable values within the community. This year, the company is holding TCV E-Running Cup Season 3, under the message “Run for Young Future.” Continuing its journey, this season marks a meaningful transformation by focusing on educational support activities for underprivileged children in Vietnam.

■From a Green Journey to a Symbol of Internal Unity
After two successful seasons, TCV E-Running Cup has become not only a highly anticipated annual internal sports event, but also a symbol of solidarity and social responsibility among transcosmos employees in Vietnam. Over the past two years, hundreds of transcosmos employees in Vietnam have contributed to positive environmental impacts through charity running activities for tree planting:

– More than 30,000 kilometers completed by employees across both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
– 3,000 trees planted nationwide through the conversion of running achievements into environmental contributions.

These achievements reflect not only the perseverance and dedication of employees but also serve as a strong foundation for transcosmos to further expand its corporate social responsibility initiatives toward more meaningful human-centered values.

■TCV E-Running Cup 2026: Every Kilometer Becomes a Gift of Knowledge
Entering its 3rd season, transcosmos has chosen education as the core focus of its 2026 community journey in Vietnam. With the message “Run for Young Future,” every kilometer completed during the event will be converted by the transcosmos Vietnam Labor Union into contributions to the “Book Fund for Underprivileged Children.”

The fund will support textbooks, notebooks, and educational books that help nurture knowledge and personal development for children before the new academic year begins. Through this initiative, the company aims to create greater educational opportunities for children while spreading the spirit of sharing and compassion throughout the community.

Program Information
Program Name: TCV E-Running Cup 2026
Message: “Run for Young Future”
Format: Online running/walking program for all transcosmos employees in Vietnam
Registration & Details: TCV E-Running Cup 2026 (https://app.irace.vn/chay-vi-tuong-lai-em?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

■Launching a Meaningful Journey with Strong Support from TCVers
On May 14, the online opening ceremony of TCV E-Running Cup 2026 was successfully held with enthusiastic participation from transcosmos employees in Vietnam. Immediately after the online registration portal opened, many employees quickly joined the race and began recording their first achievements through the program’s application platform. Beyond promoting physical wellness, this year’s running event also carries the meaningful mission of connecting the community through every individual step.

With unity and perseverance, transcosmos hopes to transform every running route into a bridge of knowledge, contributing to better learning opportunities for underprivileged children.

●Employees participating in past tree-planting activities

* transcosmos is a trademark or registered trademark of transcosmos inc. in Japan and other countries.
* Other company names and product or service names used here are trademarks or registered trademarks of respective companies.

Kettal at NeoCon 2026: Eames Office Pavilion Debut and 60th Anniversary Celebration

Chicago, June 2 : Kettal, the contemporary design company known for its architectural approach to indoor and outdoor environments, will return to NeoCon 2026 from June 8–10 with Kettal Workplace. Focused on the evolution of the contemporary workplace through flexible environments, architectural systems, and human-centered design, the showcase reflects Kettal’s expansion beyond furniture into a broader workplace offeringintegrating architecture, atmosphere, lighting, acoustics, seating, and collaborative environments. 

At the core of the presentation is the idea that the workplace is shifting away from static office layouts toward more fluid environments designed around changing patterns of work and interaction. The showroom brings together workstations, meeting areas, acoustic rooms, retreat spaces, lounge environments, lighting, and architectural systems into one integrated workplace approach. 

Among the highlights will be the evolution of the Eames Pavilion System into workplace and interior applications. Rooted in Charles Eames and Ray Eames’ enduring ideas around prefabrication, modular construction, and human-scaled environments, the adaptable architectural system explores how flexible structures can shape contemporary workplace experiences through collaborative workspaces, informal meeting areas, and retreat environments. Developed in partnership with the Eames Office and grounded in extensive archival research into Charles and Ray Eames’ residential projects of the 1940s and 1950s, the Eames Pavilion System translates the Eameses’ pioneering architectural concepts into a fully engineered modular construction system designed for flexibility, interior adaptability, and long-term evolution. Conceived as an integrated kit of parts with repeatable structural modules, interchangeable roof types, facade infills, glazing, textiles, and accessory offerings, the system reflects Charles and Ray Eames’ belief that architecture should function as an adaptable framework for life and work rather than a fixed object. Emphasizing spatial generosity, material clarity, and the relationship between architecture and human experience, the presentation reflects Kettal’s broader approach to creating environments that move between exterior, architectural, and interior configurations.

These themes will also be explored during a special NeoCon conversation with Eames Demetrios on June 8 examining how Eames thinking continues to influence contemporary workplace environments and human-centered systems today. 

A major focus of the showroom will be Area, a modular furniture collection developed with Foster + Partners Industrial Design. Designed for meeting rooms, co-working spaces, libraries, and cafés, Area brings together structural columns, modular tabletops, and integrated accessories to support flexible, multifunctional workplace environments. The system incorporates power, lighting, and cable management directly into its framework while supporting a variety of adaptable configurations for collaborative and focused work settings. 

Kettal will also present U-Type, a new chair by Barber Osergby that rethinks the office chair through what the designers describe as “full performance, quiet design.” Concealing ergonomic functionality within a calm architectural form, the chair features a continuous die-cast aluminium frame, oversized upholstered cushions, and softly rounded geometry that bring comfort and familiarity into workplace settings while maintaining long-term performance.

The presentation will also feature Shogun, reintroduced in collaboration with Verner Panton Design AG to mark the centenary of Verner Panton. Originally designed in 1994–1995, Shogun reflects Panton’s vision of design as an immersive experience shaped by geometry, movement, and interaction. Designed with castors for mobility, the chair balances sculptural presence with flexibility across collaborative workplaces, hospitality settings, and lounge environments. 

Across the showroom, Kettal Workplace explores how contemporary offices are increasingly moving between focus, collaboration, retreat, hospitality, and informal interaction. Drawing from residential, hospitality, and outdoor design, Kettal presents a softer and more human approach to workplace environments through integrated systems spanning furniture, lighting, acoustics, meeting spaces, and architectural elements. 

NeoCon 2026 marks Kettal’s 60th anniversary, reflecting the company’s evolution from an outdoor furniture brand into a broader architectural and workplace systems company while maintaining its commitment to craftsmanship, material quality, and human-centered design. 

Visitors can experience the collection during NeoCon 2026 at The Mart in Chicago from June 8–10, 2026, including Preview Day on June 7. Kettal will exhibit at Hall / Floor 3, Stand / Suite 377.

Music unites hearts and souls

By Shri Subrata De, Founder, Swaranjali

Music unites hearts and souls. We are just passing through this world, everything in this world is temporary, but our music is pure and eternal, like a canvas embracing peace and harmony, strengthening our bonds of brotherhood. “Music has its own notes, carrying emotions, personality, love, respect, and trust. No language is needed to understand it; it transcends borders and ages… We are all one family, one world.” 

Music unites hearts and souls. We are but passing through this world, but our music is pure and eternal, like a canvas painted upon this world, a symbol of peace and harmony in our fraternal bonds. 

Save the Nature 
Save life 
Save the world.
Safe yourself 
May God bless you.

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay to Hold Thanksgiving Meeting in Tiruchirappalli, Attendance Restricted to Pass Holders

Tiruchirappalli, June 1 (BNP): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President Vijay is scheduled to visit Tiruchirappalli today to participate in a thanksgiving public meeting at the St Joseph’s College ground near Chathiram Bus Stand, organised to express gratitude to voters and supporters from the Tiruchirappalli East constituency.

The event has been arranged to acknowledge public support received during the recent Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, in which Vijay-led TVK secured a decisive mandate to form the government. Vijay had contested from two constituencies — Perambur in Chennai and Tiruchirappalli East — winning both seats before later resigning from the Tiruchirappalli East constituency after assuming office as Chief Minister.

Despite stepping down from the constituency, Vijay is expected to personally thank party workers, supporters and voters in Tiruchirappalli district during the gathering.

According to organisers, Vijay will arrive at Tiruchirappalli Airport from Chennai by a special flight before proceeding to the venue, where extensive preparations and security arrangements have been made.

Unlike a conventional mass rally, attendance at the event will be strictly regulated through QR code-enabled entry passes, with participation capped at around 5,000 people. Organisers clarified that entry will not be permitted without valid authorisation under any circumstances.

As a precautionary measure, passes were reportedly not issued to pregnant women, children, school students, senior citizens, differently-abled individuals and people with health concerns, while authorities advised such groups to avoid attending the programme.

Police and administrative officials have issued guidelines regarding designated parking areas to minimise traffic disruption near the venue. Drinking water, medical support and other basic facilities have also been arranged for attendees.

Meanwhile, party workers and members of the public unable to secure entry passes have been encouraged to follow the event through television broadcasts and live social media coverage to ensure smooth management of the programme.

The thanksgiving meeting is expected to draw political attention in Tamil Nadu as Vijay continues to consolidate his leadership following the party’s electoral success.

Odisha’s Traditional Bela Panna Gains National Spotlight in PM Modi’s Mann Ki Baat

Bhubaneswar, June 1 (BNP): Odisha’s traditional summer beverage, Bela Panna (ବେଲ ପଣା), received national recognition after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted it during the latest edition of Mann Ki Baat, drawing attention to the state’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

The mention of Bela Panna, a refreshing drink made from wood apple and widely consumed during summer months in Odisha, has been welcomed by cultural enthusiasts and citizens across the state. Deeply rooted in Odisha’s traditions, the drink is known not only for its refreshing taste but also for its health benefits, particularly in combating heat and aiding digestion.

Observers said the Prime Minister’s acknowledgment has brought renewed focus to Odisha’s indigenous food practices and traditional wisdom, which continue to hold relevance in modern lifestyles.

Bela Panna occupies a special place in Odisha’s cultural fabric and is especially associated with the observance of Pana Sankranti, marking the traditional Odia New Year. The beverage symbolises the state’s age-old knowledge of seasonal wellness and sustainable food habits.

The recognition in Mann Ki Baat is being viewed as an important moment for Odisha, encouraging greater appreciation of local traditions and showcasing the diversity of India’s cultural heritage on a national platform.