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.
- 0
- By Neel Achary
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
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 Needs Fewer, Better Destinations to Drive Tourism Growth: NITI Aayog
Apr 18 (BNP): NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery has highlighted the need for Indian states to develop at least one world-class tourist destination to strengthen the country’s tourism sector.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The recommendation comes with a focus on improving infrastructure, visitor experience, and overall destination management so that tourists are encouraged to stay longer. Greater emphasis is being placed on domestic and religious tourism, which continue to draw large numbers of travelers across the country.
The suggestion was made during the release of the report “Divya Bharat: A Window to the Soul of India,” which outlines strategies to unlock tourism’s potential as a key driver of economic growth.
The broader approach aims to move beyond short visits and promote more immersive travel experiences, helping boost local economies and create sustainable tourism opportunities.
18, Apr 2026
Vuse Launches Original Content Series Charting the Evolution of Electronic Music and the Rise of Remote Raving
Kickstarting with DJ Charlie Tee in the French Alps, the campaign, titled Remote Raving Scenes, explores the power of electronic music to escape, unwind and intentionally reset
BONCOURT, Switzerland, April 18, 2026 — On Friday, Vuse announces the launch of its new content series Remote Raving Scenes which explores the trend of remote raving, looking at how culture is shifting from passive entertainment to intentional participation and connection, allowing you to truly immerse in the moment.
The first in the series, Unwind In the Mountains, in partnership with acclaimed DJ Charlie Tee, transports audiences to the breathtaking mountain location of Alpe D’huez in France during Tomorrowland Winter, providing a fresh perspective on how electronic music is adapting and thriving in new forms. Watch here.
From the anticipation and the instant community to, at times, the digital distance, remote raving creates a profound connection between music, nature, and personal freedom. The first of these short films from Vuse and Charlie explores how intentional travel, music and environment combine to create an epic moment of collective release. With content that covers her arrival in the Alps, her magnetic sets, and an exploration of why people travel to remote and unique places for music, Charlie brings to life why some events and DJ sets resonate more than others.
DJ Charlie Tee says “My journey to the Alps wasn’t just about playing music; it was about discovering how travel and the right music can combine to create a set of truly exceptional moments where you can escape the everyday. It’s these moments that help you reconnect, intentionally ‘switch in’ for yourself and immerse in a collective experience with like-minded people.”
A recent report which explores the cultural evolution of how audiences are engaging with electronic music highlighted that whilst there has been a 36 per cent decline in UK nightclubs since March 2020, overall event programming has expanded by 10.5 per cent year-on-year. There has also been an 82 per cent growth in daytime events since 2022, expanding nearly three times faster than nighttime programming**. These statistics show a clear shift in the clubbing scene moving beyond traditional venues to embrace diverse, often more accessible, and unique experiences, with communities reclaiming their own version of how they escape whilst enjoying electronic music.
Immersive and different clubbing locations is not only of value to the audience, but also the DJs themselves. Speaking to a few up-and-coming DJs across Europe, Vuse found that the best off-grid settings are the ones you wouldn’t usually associate with nightlife. One DJ from Austria said: “It’s less about the crowd and more about the energy – that feeling when music takes over and transforms any space into something unforgettable.”
From small gatherings in the mountains, to small sunset sessions by the sea, it’s clear that the most incredible remote raving moments happen in the simplest, most unexpected places.
Creator and DJ Zoe London, commented: “I’ve been fortunate to play in some incredibly unique spaces – from DJing up a mountain in the highest club in Europe, in Val Thorens, to the unique environment of a disused station that used to be an underground skatepark in London. I love the idea of performing in an old school factory which still has its artefacts, centring the DJ set within it to create a truly unique moment.”
Tomorrowland, one of the world’s most iconic electronic music festivals, highlights the power of location in creating unforgettable moments.
The Vuse Remote Raving Scenes series features exclusive sets from a varied line up of globally renowned DJs exploring different remote raving locations, kicking off with DJ Charlie Tee. The first episode will launch on 17th April 2026 with the others rolling out over 2026.
17, Apr 2026
PM Modi Urges MPs to Support Women’s Reservation Bill, Calls for Consensus
Apr 17 (BNP): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to Members of Parliament to support the Women’s Reservation Bill, calling for collective agreement on the legislation.
He urged all political parties to work together to ensure smooth passage of the bill, which seeks to increase women’s representation in Parliament and state legislatures.
The proposal is viewed as a significant step toward improving gender balance in political decision-making.
The government is also engaging with stakeholders to build wider political consensus on the bill ahead of its implementation process.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen democratic participation and enhance inclusivity in governance.
17, Apr 2026
LPG Demand Moderates, Supply Chain Remains Stable
Apr 17 (BNP): LPG demand has shown signs of moderation, with daily bookings falling to around 46–50 lakh, while supply conditions remain normal, according to the government.
Officials said the decline in bookings reflects temporary fluctuations in consumption patterns, but there is no disruption in availability or distribution across the country.
The government clarified that LPG supply continues to be stable and adequately meets domestic demand, ensuring uninterrupted access for consumers.
Authorities added that the supply chain remains well-managed, and there is no cause for concern regarding shortages or logistical issues.
Overall, the situation indicates a mild softening in demand, while the LPG distribution system continues to function smoothly nationwide.
17, Apr 2026
UP Hockey’s Grassroots System Delivers 21 Medal Boost
Apr 17 (BNP): Uttar Pradesh’s hockey programme has recorded a notable rise in performance, winning 21 medals in recent competitions and highlighting the growing strength of grassroots development in the sport.
The steady improvement reflects better training infrastructure, talent identification, and increased focus on nurturing young players at the state level.
Officials and coaches said the progress demonstrates how structured development programs are helping smaller centres emerge as key contributors to India’s hockey talent pool.
The results are also seen as a positive sign for Indian hockey’s long-term future, as more states invest in grassroots coaching and competitive exposure for young athletes.
17, Apr 2026
Odisha Reshuffles Senior Health Officials to Strengthen Public Health System
Bhubaneswar, Apr 17 (BNP): The Odisha government has announced a fresh round of transfers and appointments of senior officials in the Health and Family Welfare Department, aimed at improving administrative efficiency and strengthening the public health system.
As part of the reshuffle, Director of Public Health Dr. Nilakantha Mishra has been moved to the role of Special Secretary in the department. He will be succeeded by Dr. Pradeep Hota, currently serving as Chief District Medical and Public Health Officer of Sambalpur.
The changes are seen as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance governance, ensure better coordination, and improve delivery of healthcare services across Odisha.
Officials indicated that such leadership adjustments are intended to bring greater focus and efficiency to the implementation of public health programmes.
17, Apr 2026
Veerappan’s Wife, Daughter Contest Tamil Nadu Polls from Different Parties
Chennai, April 17 (BNP): In a notable political development, the wife and daughter of slain forest brigand Veerappan have entered the electoral fray in Tamil Nadu, contesting from different constituencies on tickets of separate regional parties.
Muthulakshmi Veerappan is contesting as a candidate of the Thamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi (TVK) from the Krishnagiri Assembly constituency. Her daughter, Vidha Rani Veerappan, is in the race from the Mettur Assembly constituency in Salem district on a Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) ticket led by actor-politician Seeman.
Vidha Rani, a lawyer by profession, had earlier made her electoral debut in the 2024 elections.
The entry of Veerappan’s family members into mainstream politics has drawn considerable attention, given his controversial past. Veerappan, once known as one of India’s most notorious poachers and sandalwood smugglers, was killed in a police encounter in Papparappati village of Dharmapuri district in October 2004.
Both candidates have stated that their participation in politics is aimed at restoring Veerappan’s “pride” and presenting an alternative perspective on his legacy.
Political observers believe their candidature could influence voter dynamics, particularly among sections of the Vanniyar community, a significant group in western Tamil Nadu.
