Category Archives: News

Jharkhand YouTuber Kidnapped, Murdered During Robbery in Sundargarh; Main Accused Dies While Fleeing

Sundargarh, July 1 (UDN): A suspected robbery attempt ended in the murder of a Ranchi-based YouTuber in Odisha’s Sundargarh district, while the alleged mastermind of the crime died in a road accident during an attempt to flee with the victim’s vehicle, police said on Tuesday.

The victim, identified as Shivdhan Lohar of Ranchi, had travelled to Sundargarh along with his friend, Anmol Mallick, to admit a relative to the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). The two were returning home in separate vehicles late Monday night when they were reportedly targeted by three armed assailants.

According to the police, the miscreants first attempted to stop Mallick’s vehicle, but he managed to escape. They then intercepted Lohar’s car and allegedly forced him into their custody before driving towards the Hemagiri area. During an alleged attempt to rob the victim of his vehicle and valuables, a confrontation reportedly broke out, following which Lohar was fatally attacked with a sharp weapon. His body was later abandoned near a railway overbridge.

After committing the crime, the accused allegedly fled in the victim’s car. However, their escape was cut short near Bhasma when the vehicle met with a major accident. The prime accused, identified as Subhendu, died on the spot, while another suspect sustained serious injuries and was admitted to GMCH, Sundargarh. A juvenile allegedly involved in the incident has also been detained.

Sundargarh Superintendent of Police Amritpal Kaur said the preliminary investigation points to robbery as the motive behind the murder. Police have recovered evidence from the crime scene and are analysing forensic and technical inputs to reconstruct the sequence of events.

The police are also verifying the criminal background of the deceased accused, who is believed to have been involved in an earlier murder case. A detailed investigation is underway to identify the role of each accused and establish all circumstances leading to the crime.

IMD Issues Thunderstorm, Lightning Alert for 14 Odisha Districts

Bhubaneswar, July 1 (UDN): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nowcast warning for 14 districts of Odisha, forecasting thunderstorms with lightning, light to moderate rainfall, and gusty winds reaching up to 40 kmph over the next three hours.

The districts likely to be affected are Angul, Ganjam, Kendrapara, Dhenkanal, Nayagarh, Puri, Gajapati, Jagatsinghpur, Bargarh, Sonepur, Kandhamal, Sambalpur, Jajpur, and Cuttack, including Cuttack city.

The weather office has advised residents to remain alert as conditions may change rapidly. People are encouraged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open areas, and take shelter away from tall trees, electric poles, and other vulnerable structures to minimize the risk of lightning strikes.

Motorists should exercise caution while driving, as rainfall may lead to poor visibility and slippery road conditions. Farmers, outdoor workers, and travellers are also advised to monitor local weather updates and postpone non-essential outdoor activities until the weather improves.

Authorities have urged the public to follow safety advisories and remain vigilant throughout the warning period.

Government Says E20 Fuel Still in Experimental Phase

New Delhi, July 1 (UDN): The Central Government has clarified that the use of E20 fuel—a blend of 20 per cent ethanol and 80 per cent petrol—remains in an experimental and transition phase, with efforts underway to assess its long-term performance and compatibility across different vehicle categories.

Representational image

The government said the phased rollout of E20 fuel is aimed at reducing dependence on imported crude oil, lowering carbon emissions and promoting the use of domestically produced ethanol. Vehicle manufacturers have been encouraged to produce E20-compatible models, while studies on the fuel’s impact on engines, fuel efficiency and emissions continue.

Officials said consumers should use E20 fuel only in vehicles certified or recommended by manufacturers for such blends. The government added that feedback from automakers, fuel retailers and consumers will be considered before wider implementation of the programme.

The E20 initiative forms part of India’s broader strategy to expand the use of biofuels, strengthen energy security and support environmental sustainability.

Abraham Accords, IMEC corridor: 53 local authorities across Northern Israel unite in a historic, unprecedented alliance to shape the region’s future

Against the backdrop of profound regional transformations, driven by the Abraham Accords and the development of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), 53 local authorities in northern Israel have, for the first time, forged an unprecedented regional alliance aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and accelerating economic development.

This regional initiative, named the “Next Bay 53-City Alliance,” brings together 53 local authorities stretching from Haifa Bay to the Beit She’an Valley and the Galilee, a strategic geographic, economic and social region home to more than 2 million residents, including Jewish, Arab, Druze, Bedouin, Circassian, Bahá’í, and Ahmadi communities.

The alliance aims to strengthen northern Israel’s position as the country’s gateway to regional connectivity, foster cooperation among local authorities, and leverage the opportunities created by the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) to promote economic growth, innovation, job creation, and regional development.

Thanks to its strategic location and infrastructure, northern Israel, including the Port of Haifa, one of the largest ports in the Eastern Mediterranean, is a key logistics hub along the IMEC Corridor. As Israel’s maritime gateway to the region, it represents a major strategic asset for expanding trade and connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

The Next Bay 53-City Alliance was jointly founded by the Haifa Bay Local Authorities Cluster, the Kinneret Valleys Cluster, the Galilee and Valleys Cluster, the Municipality of Haifa, the Municipality of Beit She’an, and the Emek HaMaayanot Regional Council.

Last Thursday, their respective leaders signed the Alliance’s founding charter. The signing ceremony was followed by a panel discussion featuring senior officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Economy, Interior, Energy, Transport, Communications, and Regional Cooperation, focusing on the policy priorities and collaborative actions needed to position northern Israel within the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).

Earlier this month, Frank Melloul was appointed Ambassador of the Next Bay 53-City Alliance to help raise the Alliance’s international profile and promote its vision and objectives on the global stage.

David Even Tzur, Chairman of the Haifa Bay Local Authorities Cluster and Mayor of Kiryat Yam, said: “Haifa Bay and northern Israel are home to a unique human mosaic. By bringing our local authorities together, we will be better positioned to seize the opportunities created by the Abraham Accords and the IMEC Corridor, driving economic growth, innovation, and regional development. The potential is tremendous.”

Munir Zbeidat, Head of the Basmat Tivon Local Council and Chairman of the Forum of Bedouin Local Authorities in Northern Israel, said: “The Arab, Bedouin, and Circassian communities are committed to being an integral part of the regional vision advanced by the Forum of 53 Local Authorities. We want to be full partners in this initiative, contributing to its economic development momentum and working together to create jobs, foster growth, and expand opportunities for all residents of northern Israel.”

Yaakov Peretz, Mayor of Kiryat Ata, said: “The IMEC Corridor is a powerful example of the strategic opportunities emerging for our region, reinforcing northern Israel’s position as a major engine of growth for the country. This initiative has the potential to create tens of thousands of jobs, strengthen economic resilience, attract new investment, and accelerate regional development for the benefit of all residents of northern Israel.”

Yona Yahav, Mayor of Haifa, said: “The IMEC Corridor is far more than an infrastructure and transport project. It is a strategic opportunity to create high-quality jobs, attract international investment, strengthen the local economy, and improve the quality of life for millions of people. As Israel’s leading northern metropolis, Haifa is proud to play a central role in this initiative.
For decades, Haifa—and the wider region—has served as Israel’s gateway to the world: a port city, a center of trade, research, industry, innovation, and multiculturalism.”

Shlomit Shihor Reichman, Vice Chair of the Galilee and Valleys Cluster and Head of the Emek Yizreel Regional Council, said: “The IMEC initiative is far more than an economic or transport corridor. It is a regional opportunity to strengthen partnerships, advance infrastructure, innovation, employment, and tourism, and create new engines of growth for the benefit of the region’s residents. Broad cooperation among local authorities and partners across sectors is the key to unlocking this potential.”

TV9 Bangla Unveils India’s Biggest Education Expo and Celebrates Academic Excellence Through Uttaran Academic Excellence Honour

Kolkata, 30 June 2026: TV9 Bangla successfully organised India’s Biggest Education Expo, featuring leading educational institutions offering information on a wide range of academic disciplines and professional courses. The expo provided students and parents with a unique opportunity to explore higher education options and make informed decisions after their board examinations.

The event was inaugurated by distinguished dignitaries including Hon’ble Minister Smt. Agnimitra Paul, for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Government of West Bengal; along with Mr. K. Vikram, COO – National & International, TV9 Network; Mr. Amritanshu Bhattacharya, Managing Editor & Business Head, TV9 Bangla; Mr. Ashish Beriwala, Director, SRMB Srijan; and Mr. Shiva Kumar, Assistant Director, KL University.

Designed as a one-stop destination for aspiring students, the expo showcased educational opportunities, emerging career paths, industry-relevant courses, and skill-based programmes aimed at preparing students for an increasingly competitive and evolving job market.

As part of the day’s celebrations, TV9 Bangla also hosted the fifth edition of Uttaran Academic Excellence Honour, recognising and felicitating meritorious students from backward and tribal communities who have excelled despite facing significant socio-economic challenges. The ceremony recognised exceptional students including Labani Mondal, Adrija Gan, Manimala Besra, Sagar Mondal, Alia Paul, and several others who have achieved academic success despite numerous challenges. It also honoured educational institutions that have made remarkable contributions to academic excellence, innovation, student development, and societal progress.

The event was graced by Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, Union Minister of State for Education and Development of Northeastern Region, and Dr. Shankar Ghosh, Cabinet Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Tourism, among other eminent dignitaries.

Speaking on the occasion, K. Vikram, COO – National & International, TV9 Network, said:

“Uttaran Academic Excellence Honour is our humble initiative to acknowledge and celebrate institutions that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to academic excellence, innovation in education, student development, and societal impact. These institutions are not merely centres of learning; they are catalysts for change and progress. At TV9 Bangla, we believe that quality education is one of the strongest pillars of a prosperous society. Through this initiative, we aim to highlight stories of commitment, perseverance, innovation, and leadership that truly deserve recognition and appreciation.”

Educational institutions honoured during the ceremony included:

Adamas University; Brainware University; Budge Budge Institute of Technology; Centurion University of Technology and Management; Dr. B.C. Roy Engineering College, Durgapur; Guru Nanak Institute of Dental Sciences & Research; Guru Nanak Institute of Technology; International Institute of Nursing & Research (A Unit of Nirmala Foundation); University of Engineering & Management; JIS University; JT College of Management Studies, Kolkata; Kingston Educational Institute; MCKV Institute of Engineering; NCSM Foundation; Nopany Institute of Healthcare Studies; NSHM Knowledge Campus, Durgapur; OmDayal Group; Praxis Business School, Kolkata; Sanaka Educational Trust; Santiniketan Medical College & Hospital; Sister Nivedita University; Shadajharmoni; Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology; Supreme Knowledge Foundation; TEM Management College; The Bandhan School; and Vidyasagar Pharmaceutical College of Education (JNMS Educational Hub).

TV9 Bangla acknowledges the support of its valued partners and sponsors, including Novesta Group, Lalbaba Rice, Khukumoni Sindoor & Alta, and AKMA Group, whose contribution helped make the initiative a grand success.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Launches FCRA 2.0 Portal and e-OCI Card in Delhi

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday launched the FCRA 2.0 portal and e-OCI card facilities in Delhi, marking another step toward the government’s vision of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance” championed by Narendra Modi.

The upgraded FCRA 2.0 portal is designed to offer organisations receiving foreign contributions a more user-friendly and transparent digital platform, reducing paperwork and streamlining compliance processes. The government said the new system will also strengthen regulatory oversight of foreign contributions, helping safeguard national interests while improving efficiency through digital governance.

GST Completes Nine Years, Marks Major Milestone in India’s Tax Reform Journey

New Delhi, June 30: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) has completed nine years, marking a major milestone in India’s indirect tax reform journey, officials and experts said.

Over this period, GST has evolved into a more stable and collaborative tax framework between the Centre, States, industry, and institutions. The system today is seen as a mature and technology-driven ecosystem supported by continuous reforms, improved compliance mechanisms, and growing alignment with business practices.

Key Changes and Evolution Over Nine Years

Officials highlighted several major improvements since the rollout of GST:

• Unified tax structure: Multiple indirect taxes were replaced with a single nationwide tax system, creating a common national market.
• Digital-first system: End-to-end online filing, e-invoicing, and automated return processing have significantly reduced manual intervention.
• Improved compliance: Technology-driven monitoring and data analytics have helped reduce tax evasion and improve transparency.
• Faster refunds: Streamlined processes have improved refund timelines for exporters and businesses.
• Frequent policy updates: Regular rate rationalisation and procedural changes have improved responsiveness to industry needs.
• Broader tax base: Greater formalisation of the economy has expanded the taxpayer base over time.

Stable and Collaborative Ecosystem

Experts noted that GST has now become a stable collaborative platform involving governments, tax authorities, and businesses. This coordination has helped address implementation challenges and refine processes based on feedback from stakeholders.

The regime is also increasingly aligned with modern business practices, with digital compliance systems reducing paperwork and improving efficiency for taxpayers.

Outlook

Officials said continued reforms, data-driven administration, and deeper digital integration are expected to further strengthen the GST framework in the coming years, making it more efficient, transparent, and taxpayer-friendly.

The government reiterated its commitment to further simplifying processes and improving ease of compliance for businesses and individuals.

Indian Pickleball Association Unveils Official Jersey Ahead of Pickleball World Cup

New Delhi, June 30: The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) has officially unveiled the national team jersey ahead of the upcoming Pickleball World Cup.

The new jersey has been designed to represent India’s sporting identity, unity, and competitive spirit as the national team prepares to compete on the global stage.

According to officials, the unveiling marks a significant milestone in India’s preparations for the World Cup, reflecting the rapid growth of pickleball in the country and the increasing participation of athletes in the sport.

The team is expected to undergo final preparations, including training camps and selection processes, ahead of the international tournament.

The Indian Pickleball Association expressed confidence in the team’s readiness and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the sport across the country.

Ancelotti’s Calm Leadership Inspired Brazil’s Comeback Win, Says Martinelli

Rio de Janeiro, June 30: Brazil forward Gabriel Martinelli praised head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s calm approach after the team secured a spirited comeback victory in their FIFA World Cup match.

Martinelli said the coach’s composure and clear communication played a key role in keeping the team focused during a difficult phase of the match. He added that Ancelotti’s leadership helped restore belief in the squad, which eventually turned the game around in Brazil’s favour.

The Brazilian team showed strong resilience after going behind early, responding with improved coordination, attacking intent, and disciplined gameplay in the second half.

Players and staff credited the team’s unity and tactical adjustments for the turnaround, highlighting the importance of staying composed under pressure in high-stakes tournament matches.

The win strengthens Brazil’s position in the competition as they continue their campaign in the FIFA World Cup.

Coal India Plans INR 1,900 Crore Investment in Research & Development by 2030

New Delhi, June 30: State-owned Coal India Limited (CIL) has announced plans to invest around ₹1,900 crore in research and development (R&D) by FY30, aiming to strengthen innovation and modernise its operations.

The investment is expected to focus on improving mining efficiency, adopting cleaner technologies, enhancing safety standards, and supporting sustainable coal production practices.

The move comes as Coal India looks to align with long-term energy transition goals while maintaining its role as a key supplier of coal to the power sector.

Officials said the R&D push will help the company integrate advanced technologies and improve productivity across its mining operations over the coming years.