Category Archives: News

April Gross GST Collection Hits INR 2,42,702 Crore, Up 8.7 pc; Highest-Ever Monthly Mop-Up!

New Delhi, May 1 (BNP): India’s gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection for April 2026 surged to a record ₹2,42,702 crore, registering an 8.7 per cent increase compared to the same month last year, signalling strong economic momentum and improved tax compliance.

The April collection marks the highest-ever monthly GST mop-up since the nationwide indirect tax regime was rolled out in July 2017, highlighting sustained growth in domestic consumption, trade activity, and business transactions.

Officials said the robust tax numbers reflect the resilience of the Indian economy despite ongoing global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions impacting international markets.

GST collections are widely seen as a key indicator of economic health, as higher revenues generally point to stronger consumer demand, increased commercial activity, and better compliance among taxpayers.

The strong April figures also come at the beginning of the new financial year, raising optimism over government revenue trends and fiscal stability in the months ahead.

Economists noted that consistent growth in GST collections could provide additional fiscal space for infrastructure development, welfare programmes, and public investment, while supporting the government’s broader economic expansion agenda.

The record-breaking collection is expected to further strengthen confidence in India’s growth outlook and revenue position for FY 2026-27.

Labour Day 2026 Explained: History, Importance, Theme and Wishes for Workers

New Delhi, May 1 (BNP): Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day or May Day, is being observed across the world on Friday, May 1, 2026, to honour the contribution, dedication, and achievements of workers across all sectors.

Celebrated annually on May 1, the day recognises the strength of the labour force and highlights the importance of fair wages, safe working conditions, dignity at work, and social justice for employees.

Why Labour Day Is Celebrated on May 1

The origin of Labour Day dates back to the labour union movement in the late 19th century, particularly the historic Haymarket affair in Chicago in 1886, where workers demanded an eight-hour workday. The movement became a symbol of workers’ rights and inspired countries worldwide to observe May 1 as International Workers’ Day.

In India, Labour Day was first celebrated in Chennai in 1923 by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan, making it a significant milestone in the country’s labour history.

Labour Day 2026 Theme

The global focus for Labour Day 2026 centres on workers’ rights, fair employment, social security, dignity of labour, and inclusive economic growth. Various organisations and labour groups are observing the day with discussions on job security, skill development, workplace equality, and employee welfare.

Significance of Labour Day

Labour Day serves as a reminder of the vital role workers play in building industries, economies, and nations. It also acknowledges the struggles and sacrifices made by generations of workers to secure rights and protections that many employees benefit from today.

The day is marked through rallies, awareness programmes, recognition events, and campaigns promoting labour welfare and workplace safety.

Wishes to Share on Labour Day 2026

• Happy Labour Day to all hardworking people whose dedication keeps the world moving.
• Wishing strength, success, and respect to every worker on this Labour Day.
• Salute to the hands that build the nation. Happy May Day 2026.
• Your hard work shapes the future. Happy Labour Day.
• May every worker receive dignity, fair opportunity, and prosperity.

Labour Day is more than a holiday—it is a tribute to millions of workers whose efforts power daily life and economic progress. As the world marks May 1, the occasion calls for renewed commitment to fairness, equality, and respect in every workplace.

Mamata Banerjee Warns Against Tampering of Counting Process After Late-Night Visit to EVM Strongroom in Bhabanipur

Kolkata, May 1 (BNP): West Bengal Chief Minister and All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee early Friday issued a stern warning against any attempt to tamper with the vote counting process, hours after she made a late-night visit to an EVM strongroom in Bhabanipur alleging possible malpractice ahead of the May 4 counting.

Banerjee reached the Bhabanipur Assembly segment counting centre at Sakhawat Memorial School on Thursday night and remained inside the premises for nearly four hours along with her election agent. The strongroom houses Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) used in the April 29 polling.

Emerging from the centre shortly after midnight, she stressed the need for strict transparency in the counting process.

“Either the candidate or one agent can stay upstairs. I have also suggested installation of CCTV cameras for the media,” Banerjee told reporters.

Emphasising the importance of safeguarding public mandate, she said, “People’s votes must be protected. I rushed here after receiving complaints. If there is any plan to tamper with the counting process, it will not be tolerated.”

She also alleged that central security personnel initially prevented her from entering the premises.

The development came amid heightened political activity in the state, with TMC leaders intensifying vigilance over strongrooms ahead of counting day.

Meanwhile, Kolkata Mayor and TMC candidate Firhad Hakim reached the venue but was unable to meet Banerjee.

“I came after learning that the chief minister had arrived. However, I could not meet her as she was already inside the premises exercising her right as a candidate to inspect the strongroom,” Hakim said.

In a parallel protest, TMC leaders Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja staged a sit-in outside Khudiram Anushilan Kendra in north Kolkata, alleging irregularities and possible tampering of EVMs stored there. The protest led to tense exchanges between TMC and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters.

Earlier in a video message, Banerjee had urged party workers, leaders, and polling agents to maintain a 24-hour vigil outside all EVM strongrooms across the state.

The developments have added to the charged political atmosphere in West Bengal following a fiercely contested Assembly election, with all major parties closely monitoring arrangements ahead of the crucial counting day on May 4.

Security Tightened at Netaji Indoor Stadium Ahead of May 4 Counting Amid TMC Protest Over Alleged Irregularities!

Kolkata, May 1 (BNP): Security has been significantly intensified at Netaji Indoor Stadium ahead of the counting of votes scheduled for May 4, following protests by the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) over alleged irregularities in the electoral process.

Authorities have deployed a large number of police personnel, quick response teams, and surveillance units in and around the counting centre to ensure smooth and peaceful proceedings. Entry and movement around the stadium are expected to be closely regulated, with multi-layer security arrangements put in place.

The enhanced security measures come after TMC leaders and supporters raised concerns over alleged discrepancies and demanded greater transparency in the counting process. Party representatives have also sought strict monitoring and adherence to election guidelines.

Officials said all necessary arrangements are being made to maintain law and order, prevent any untoward incidents, and facilitate a fair counting process on the scheduled date.

Netaji Indoor Stadium, one of Kolkata’s key venues for major civic and administrative events, is expected to witness heavy security presence until the completion of counting.

The administration has appealed to political parties, candidates, and supporters to cooperate with authorities and maintain peace during the counting exercise.

LPG Price Hike: 19-Kg Commercial Cylinder Up by INR 993 from May 1; Businesses to Feel the Heat!

New Delhi, May 1 (BNP): In a major setback for businesses and commercial establishments, oil marketing companies have sharply increased the price of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders by ₹993 with effect from May 1, 2026. The steep hike is among the sharpest monthly increases in recent years and is expected to significantly impact hotels, restaurants, caterers, bakeries, roadside eateries, and small businesses across the country.

Following the latest revision, the new rates of 19-kg commercial LPG cylinders in key metro cities are:

Delhi: ₹3,071.50
Mumbai: ₹3,046.50
Bengaluru: ₹3,190.00 (approx.)
Kolkata: ₹3,175.00 (approx.)

In contrast, the price of the 14.2-kg domestic LPG cylinder remains unchanged, offering relief to household consumers. In Delhi, the domestic LPG cylinder continues to be priced at ₹913.

Oil companies usually review and revise LPG prices on the first day of every month based on international fuel prices, exchange rates, and market conditions.

This marks the third consecutive increase in commercial LPG prices in recent months. The rate was raised by ₹144 in March, followed by another hike of nearly ₹200 on April 1. With the latest increase, commercial users are expected to face mounting operational costs.

Industry experts attribute the sharp rise to growing uncertainty in global energy markets and escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28 and has now entered its eighth week, has disrupted shipping movement through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.

The disruption in crude oil and gas supply chains has added pressure on global fuel prices, prompting domestic price revisions.

Meanwhile, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. has also announced hikes in bulk diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF), commonly known as jet fuel, used for international airline operations. However, the company has not disclosed the revised rates in its official statement or on its website.

In a statement, Indian Oil said, “Price revisions have been limited to select industrial segments, which constitute a relatively small share of overall consumption and are subject to routine monthly adjustments based on prevailing international prices.”

The latest LPG price hike is expected to raise costs across several sectors, with many businesses likely to pass the additional burden on to consumers in the coming weeks.

Big EPFO Update: Minimum Pension May Rise 7.5 Times, ATM Withdrawals Soon!

New Delhi,May 1 (BNP): In a major relief for millions of salaried employees and pensioners, the government is reportedly considering a sharp hike in the minimum pension under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS-95). The current minimum pension of ₹1,000 per month may be increased to ₹7,500, according to recent reports.

The proposed revision comes amid growing demands from labour unions and pensioners’ associations, who have long argued that the present pension amount is inadequate in view of rising inflation and living costs. A parliamentary panel has also reportedly supported the move, and a final decision is expected soon.

In another significant development, the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is also working on enabling ATM-based withdrawals for Provident Fund (PF) accounts. This move is expected to make access to funds faster, easier, and more convenient for subscribers.

Reports suggest that under the proposed digital upgrade, members may be able to withdraw PF money directly through ATMs, similar to regular bank transactions, reducing delays in emergency fund access.

Additionally, EPFO is likely to maintain an 8.25% interest rate on EPF deposits for FY26, subject to final approval from the Finance Ministry.

If approved, these reforms would mark one of the biggest overhauls in EPFO services, offering higher retirement security and easier access to savings for crores of workers across India.

EC Introduces QR-Based ID Cards for Counting Centres Ahead of May 4 Vote Count

Kolkata, Apr 30 (BNP): The Election Commission of India has introduced QR code-based photo identity cards for counting centres to prevent unauthorised entry during vote counting for the Assembly elections in five states on May 4.

The new system will be implemented during counting of votes for the Assembly polls in West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, along with by-elections in seven Assembly constituencies across five states. Officials said the system will later be extended to all Lok Sabha and Assembly elections nationwide.

According to the Commission, the QR-based verification system has been developed through the ECINET platform and forms a key part of a newly introduced three-tier security arrangement at counting centres.
Under the security protocol, identity cards issued by the Returning Officer will be manually checked at the first and second security layers. At the innermost level near the counting halls, entry will be permitted only after successful scanning of the QR code on the authorised identity card.

The Commission said the move is aimed at eliminating the possibility of unauthorised persons entering sensitive counting areas and ensuring greater transparency, efficiency, and security during the counting process.
The new identity cards will be applicable to all authorised personnel allowed inside counting centres, including Returning Officers, Assistant Returning Officers, counting staff, technical teams, candidates, election agents, and counting agents.
Election officials described the initiative as a significant technological upgrade in election management, designed to strengthen the integrity of the counting process and streamline access control on a crucial day of the electoral exercise.

India Receives 657 Repatriated Antiquities from United States

New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): The United States has returned 657 antiquities, valued at nearly $14 million, to India as part of ongoing efforts to repatriate stolen cultural property.

US restitutes 657 stolen antiquities to Indiahttps://t.co/qmUZagU6W9

via NaMo App pic.twitter.com/QMLqfuU0yB

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 30, 2026

The return was announced by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg on Tuesday. Officials noted that while the latest handover marks a significant step, further work is needed to trace and recover more smuggled artifacts linked to India’s cultural heritage.

The repatriated items are believed to include a wide range of historical and cultural objects that were illegally taken out of the country over time. Authorities described the move as part of broader international cooperation aimed at curbing antiquities trafficking and restoring cultural heritage to its country of origin.

US officials also indicated that efforts to identify and return additional stolen artifacts will continue in coordination with Indian authorities.

The development has been welcomed as a positive step in strengthening cultural ties and preserving India’s rich historical legacy.

CISCE Declares ICSE, ISC 2026 Results; Pass Percentage Above 99 pc, Girls Lead Again!

New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) on Thursday announced the results of the ICSE (Class 10) and ISC (Class 12) board examinations for 2026, with the overall pass percentage crossing 99 percent in both categories.

The results brought cheer to lakhs of students and parents across the country, with girls once again outperforming boys in overall performance.

According to official figures, the ICSE Class 10 examinations recorded an impressive pass percentage above 99 percent, while the ISC Class 12 results also maintained a similarly high success rate.

Girls registered a higher pass percentage than boys in both examinations, continuing the trend of strong academic achievement seen in recent years. Education experts said the consistent performance reflects disciplined preparation and sustained academic standards across affiliated schools.

Students can access their scorecards through the official CISCE websites and authorised digital platforms. The council has also opened provisions for rechecking, improvement examinations, and other post-result services as per board norms.

School authorities and parents congratulated successful candidates, while students are now expected to begin preparations for higher secondary admissions, undergraduate courses, and various competitive entrance examinations.

The declaration of the 2026 board results marks an important milestone for students as they move toward the next phase of their academic and professional journeys.

India Begins Consultation on V2X Regulatory Framework: TRAI

New Delhi, Apr 30 (BNP): The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a consultation paper on establishing a regulatory framework for Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, marking a step toward enabling advanced connected mobility in India.

The move follows a reference from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, which on December 1, 2025, requested TRAI to provide recommendations on the regulatory mechanism for V2X technology.

According to the Ministry, the consultation paper has been made available on TRAI’s official website, and stakeholders have been invited to share their views. The deadline for submitting written comments is May 28, 2026, while counter-comments can be submitted until June 11, 2026.

Stakeholders have been advised to submit feedback, preferably in electronic form, to TRAI’s Advisor for Networks, Spectrum & Licensing.

V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) communication is a wireless technology that allows vehicles to exchange real-time data with other vehicles, road infrastructure, pedestrians, and networks. The system is designed to enhance road safety, improve traffic management, and support the development of autonomous driving by sharing critical information such as speed, location, and road conditions.

Industry reports indicate that India is emerging as one of the fastest-growing markets for connected vehicles, recording strong year-on-year growth in 2024, driven by increased integration of smart connectivity features by automakers.

Globally, adoption of connected vehicles is rising steadily, with a large share of new passenger cars already featuring embedded connectivity. The trend is expected to accelerate further with the expansion of 5G networks, which will improve V2X capabilities, enable faster data exchange, and support advanced autonomous driving technologies in the coming years.