Category Archives: News

PR – Industrialist And Dollar Industries Limited Founder & Chairman Emeritus Shri Dindayal Gupta Passes Away

Kolkata, 3rd May, 2026: Renowned Industrialist and Founder & Chairman Emeritus of hosiery major, Dollar Industries Limited Shri Dindayal Gupta left for his heavenly abode today in Kolkata from age related ailments. His demise marks the end of an era for the company and the Indian hosiery and apparel industries at large.

A visionary leader and a guiding force behind the company’s remarkable journey, Shri Dindayal Gupta steered Dollar Industries Limited for over five decades with unwavering commitment, foresight and integrity. Under his leadership, the company evolved from modest beginnings into one of India’s leading manufacturers in the hosiery and apparel segment. Under his leadership, Dollar Industries grew to a Rs 1700+ crore conglomerate.

Born on 13th September, 1937 into a humble and large family in Manheru village, Bhiwani district, Haryana with limited means, Shri Gupta’s life was a testament to perseverance, resilience and the power of dreaming big. Migrating to Kolkata (then known as Calcutta) in 1962, he started manufacturing and selling hosiery products tailormade to the buyers’ budget and requirements from its inception. This was done through parallel development of manufacturing & finishing facilities, building a network of selling outlets & partner retailers and direct development of markets neglected by other companies.

As a young man, he had the determination to build something meaningful and thus layed the foundation of Dollar Industries Limited in 1972. His entrepreneurial spirit and relentless drive transformed the company into a household name, admired for its quality, innovation and strong market presence. Soon, Dollar became one of the first companies to supply and serve backward areas like Madhya Pradesh (now MP & Chhattisgarh), the Seven Sisters of North East India and the hill districts like Darjeeling in eastern Himalayas.

Apart from his illustrious business career, Shri Dindayal Gupta was actively associated with the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha, reflecting his deep-rooted commitment to social and community service. He was a key leader in multiple branches of Bengal Pratinidhi Sabha. He was also a former Vice-President of Sarvadeshik Arya Pratinidhi Sabha and an active member of Paropakarini Sabha of Ajmer, the key repository of the personal effects of Swami Dayanand Saraswati. He initiated and set up the Burns unit and related infrastructure at the Marwari Relief Society, Kolkata.

Shri Gupta was the Founding Father of Haryana Vidya Mandir, a school in Bidhannagar, North 24-Parganas, West Bengal, under the CBSE board. He was also involved in Gurukuls as co-founder and sponsor. He was the man behind the revival of his humble village school in Manheru.His steadfast and extensive contributions in this field of education prove his conviction that the opportunity to access education at all levels is the only true way to enable social development and the growth and prosperity of the nation.

He was also a key contributor to the growth and efficacy of social service organizations in the field of elderly support likeMaharshi Dayanand Yogashram Tripura & Sukhanand Foundation. His contributions extended beyond industry, leaving a meaningful impact on the society he served.

During his illustrious journey he has been bestowed with many awards and recognitions including the Lifetime Achievement Award from West Bengal Hosiery Association and the Sanmarg Business Award.

Shri Dindayal Gupta is survived by his wife and four sons and grandchildren, who are spearheading the Dollar Industries business empire.

Incheon National University Researchers Find Solution for Reliable Excavator Tracking in Real-World Construction Environments

May 02: A recent study published in Automation in Construction by researchers from Incheon National University exploits a novel approach to improving excavator tracking performance under real-world conditions. By integrating deep learning-based instance segmentation with an automated, reliability-based multi-camera strategy, this study addresses one of the most persistent challenges in construction monitoring—frequent occlusions caused by dynamic site activities. In addition, the researchers propose a frame-level reliability estimation process that automatically identifies unreliable tracking results. 

Despite significant advances in vision-based equipment tracking, frequent occlusions caused by multiple interacting machines continue to degrade tracking accuracy on construction sites. While previous studies have explored multi-camera approaches, they often assume that at least one camera maintains a clear view at all times. In practice, however, such conditions are rarely guaranteed. Even with multiple CCTV systems installed, simultaneous occlusions across cameras frequently occur, making it difficult to identify which camera provides the most reliable view at any given moment.

To fill this knowledge gap, a research team led by Professor Choongwan Koo from the Division of Architecture & Urban Design at Incheon National University, Republic of Korea, has recently proposed an automated, reliability-based multi-camera strategy for excavator tracking. This study was made available online on 9 October 2025, and have been published in Volume 181 of Automation in Construction on 1 January 2026.

According to Prof. Koo, “The primary practical contribution of this study is the development of a quantitative and automated framework for selecting the most reliable camera under simultaneous occlusion conditions in real-world construction environments.” 

The proposed approach introduces a quantitative reliability framework based on occlusion regions (e.g., arm and body) and occlusion ratios. Unlike conventional methods that primarily focus on improving detection or tracking algorithms, this strategy enables direct assessment of tracking reliability at the frame level. Notably, this study identifies critical occlusion thresholds—0.7 for the excavator arm and 0.5 for the body—beyond which tracking performance significantly deteriorates. These thresholds offer clear and actionable criteria for practitioners to assess the quality of vision-based monitoring data.

Beyond methodological contributions, the proposed strategy also offers significant practical and economic benefits. By improving the continuity and accuracy of tracking results, the approach enhances the reliability of equipment operation logs, which are essential for carbon emission estimation and regulatory reporting. This, in turn, can help reduce administrative burdens and financial risks, such as penalties or revalidation costs. Furthermore, by leveraging existing camera infrastructure and evaluating reliability in real time, the proposed approach minimizes the need for additional camera installations, thereby reducing capital expenditure and avoiding complications related to power supply, networking, and site constraints. The automated camera selection process also reduces reliance on manual intervention, leading to lower labor and operational costs.

“Overall, our work provides a practical and scalable solution to improve the reliability and field applicability of vision-based construction monitoring systems, with potential extensions to productivity analysis, activity recognition, and carbon emission monitoring,” concludes Prof. Koo.

University of Nebraska–Lincoln and Runza Restaurants Launch Limited-Edition Runza-Flavored Ice Cream

Nebraska, May 2: In a bold and unconventional culinary collaboration, University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Food Processing Center has partnered with Runza Restaurants to introduce a limited-edition Runza-flavored ice cream, reimagining the iconic sandwich in a surprising frozen format.

The unique creation blends the signature spice profile of the classic Runza sandwich into a sweet cream ice cream base, offering a fusion of sweet and savory flavors. Developed under the leadership of April Johnson, product development project manager at the university’s Food Processing Center, the innovation aims to challenge traditional perceptions of dessert.

“It’s definitely a shock factor at first,” said April Johnson. “You take a bite and think, ‘What is this?’ and then it clicks — it tastes like a Runza sandwich.”

The product was developed following a challenge from Runza Restaurants to translate the essence of its signature sandwich — known for its blend of spices and comforting flavor into ice cream. While inspired by the original, the frozen treat contains no meat, instead incorporating elements like cabbage powder, spice blends, and soft dough inclusions to replicate the sandwich experience.

After multiple iterations and collaborative tastings, the final version was approved by Runza representatives, striking a balance between novelty and familiarity.

“We refined the recipe through continuous feedback until we reached a point where it truly captured the flavor identity,” Johnson added.

The limited-release ice cream debuted on May 1 across select locations in Lincoln and Waverly, following a teaser campaign on social media. The company anticipates strong curiosity-driven demand, though availability may be short-lived.

“We aren’t sure if this will last for four hours or four days,” said Becky L. Perrett, Director of Marketing at Runza Restaurants. “But we’ll be ready and flexible.”

The launch reflects a broader trend of experimental and conversation-starting food innovations, where unique flavor profiles drive consumer engagement.

With its blend of nostalgia, novelty, and bold experimentation, the Runza-flavored ice cream stands out as a creative milestone in food innovation — and a distinctly Nebraskan experience.

 

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.