Category Archives: News

Nepal’s Power Export Boom: Electricity Sales to India and Bangladesh Generate Record Revenue

Kathmandu, July 23: Nepal has achieved record revenue from electricity exports to India and Bangladesh, highlighting the rapid progress of its hydropower sector and growing importance in South Asia’s regional energy market.

The increase in power exports comes as Nepal continues to expand its renewable energy capacity and strengthen cross-border electricity cooperation with neighbouring countries. The development has provided a major boost to the country’s foreign exchange earnings while supporting long-term economic growth.

Nepal’s hydropower potential has attracted increasing regional demand, with India and Bangladesh emerging as key markets for its clean energy exports. Improved transmission links and energy-sharing agreements have played an important role in facilitating the growth of electricity trade.

Government officials said the rise in export revenue reflects Nepal’s efforts to develop sustainable energy resources and position itself as a reliable clean power supplier in the region.

Energy experts noted that further investment in hydropower projects, transmission infrastructure, and regional cooperation will be essential for maintaining growth in electricity exports and enhancing energy security across South Asia.

The record earnings mark a significant milestone for Nepal’s energy sector and underline the potential of renewable energy cooperation among neighbouring countries.

Indian Railways Approves Rs 440 Crore Third Line Project to Boost High-Density Route Capacity

July 23: The Indian Railways has approved a major infrastructure project worth Rs 440 crore to develop a third railway line on a high-density route, aimed at improving operational efficiency and strengthening rail connectivity.

The project is expected to enhance train movement capacity, reduce congestion on the busy corridor, and support smoother transportation of passengers and freight. The additional line will help the Railways manage increasing traffic demand while improving punctuality and operational flexibility.

Railway authorities said the expansion is part of ongoing efforts to modernise the country’s railway network through capacity enhancement projects, route upgrades, and infrastructure development.

The third line initiative will also contribute to faster movement of goods, benefiting industries and supporting economic activity along the corridor. Improved rail infrastructure is expected to provide better connectivity and strengthen the overall logistics network.

The project reflects Indian Railways’ continued focus on expanding capacity, upgrading existing routes, and creating a more efficient and reliable transportation system.

Bhubaneswar Airport to Launch Night-Only International Transit Model from August

Bhubaneswar, July 23: The Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), Bhubaneswar is set to introduce a new hub-and-spoke travel model from August to improve international flight connectivity for passengers from Odisha.

Under the proposed system, overseas travellers departing from Bhubaneswar will have access to connecting international flights through the Delhi hub, with the model focusing on night-time international departures.

Passengers travelling from Bhubaneswar during the early evening will be able to connect with available overnight international flights from Delhi, creating a smoother and more convenient travel option for those heading to overseas destinations.

The initiative aims to strengthen Bhubaneswar’s role as an aviation gateway for Odisha and improve access to global destinations by better integrating domestic and international flight schedules.

Airport authorities expect the new transit arrangement to benefit passengers by reducing travel difficulties and providing more coordinated connectivity between regional and international routes.

The move is part of broader efforts to enhance air connectivity, support tourism, and facilitate easier international travel for passengers from Odisha and neighbouring regions.

India’s Fencing Stars Break New Ground at Senior World Championships

July 23: Indian fencers Taniksha Khatri and Prachi Beniwal have scripted a historic moment for Indian fencing by securing qualification for the main draw of the Senior World Fencing Championships.

The Indian duo delivered impressive performances in the qualifying rounds, overcoming strong international competition to earn their spots in the prestigious tournament. Their achievement marks a significant milestone for the sport in India and reflects the growing strength of the country’s fencing talent pool.

The qualification of Taniksha and Prachi highlights the progress being made in Indian fencing and provides a major boost to athletes aspiring to compete at the highest international level. Their success is expected to inspire greater participation and development of the sport among young players across the country.

The Senior World Fencing Championships feature the world’s best fencers and serve as one of the biggest platforms for athletes to showcase their skills, determination, and competitive spirit.

With their main draw berths confirmed, Taniksha and Prachi will now focus on delivering strong performances and making a lasting impact at the global championship.

India Gears Up to Host FISU World University Squash Championship in Mumbai from August 3

Mumbai, July 23: India is set to welcome university-level squash talent from across the world as Mumbai prepares to host the FISU World University Squash Championship from August 3.

The international championship will bring together top university athletes competing for honours on a global platform, showcasing skill, determination, and the growing popularity of squash among young sports enthusiasts.

The hosting of the prestigious event marks a significant achievement for India’s sports ecosystem and reflects the country’s increasing capability to organise international competitions with world-class standards. The championship is expected to provide valuable exposure to emerging athletes while promoting the growth of squash at the university and grassroots levels.

Organisers are making comprehensive arrangements to ensure a successful tournament, including quality playing facilities, efficient event management, and support systems for participating teams and athletes.

The championship is also expected to strengthen India’s position in global university sports and encourage greater participation in squash among young players.

Durand Cup Excitement Builds in Kolkata as Historic Trophies Unveiled Ahead of Tournament Opener

Kolkata, July 23: Football enthusiasm has reached a high in Kolkata as the prestigious Durand Cup trophies were showcased in the city ahead of the tournament’s commencement on July 25.

The display of the iconic Durand Cup, President’s Cup, and Shimla Trophy marked the final phase of the trophy tour and celebrated the rich legacy of one of India’s oldest and most prestigious football tournaments. The event brought fans closer to the historic silverware and highlighted the deep-rooted connection between Kolkata and Indian football.

The upcoming edition of the Durand Cup will see top football clubs compete for the coveted trophies, with matches scheduled across multiple venues. Kolkata, known as the heartland of Indian football, is set to host several important fixtures, adding to the excitement among supporters.

Organisers said the tournament continues to serve as an important platform for clubs, established players, and emerging football talents to showcase their skills at the national level. The competition also reflects the enduring relationship between Indian football traditions and the armed forces, which have played a key role in the tournament’s history.

With the opening match just days away, teams are preparing for a challenging campaign while fans across the country eagerly await the return of the historic football championship.

India Showcases 2030 Commonwealth Games Vision as Glasgow Edition Begins with 74 Nations

July 23: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya participated in the Commonwealth Sports Ministers’ Meet and discussed India’s preparedness and vision for hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad.

During the meeting, Mandaviya highlighted India’s growing sports infrastructure, commitment to athlete development, and readiness to deliver a world-class sporting event. The discussions focused on strengthening international cooperation, improving sporting facilities, and promoting the values of inclusivity and excellence through sports.

Meanwhile, the 23rd edition of the Commonwealth Games commenced in Glasgow, Scotland, with athletes from 74 Commonwealth nations competing across 10 sports. The nine-day event will feature more than 3,000 athletes participating in 215 medal events until August 2.

India has sent a 125-member contingent to the Glasgow Games, with athletes competing in disciplines including athletics, swimming, weightlifting, boxing, gymnastics, judo, cycling, netball, and lawn bowls. The Indian team will aim to deliver strong performances despite the absence of key medal-winning sports such as badminton, wrestling, and hockey from this edition.

Olympic medallists and leading athletes, including Neeraj Chopra, Mirabai Chanu, and Lovlina Borgohain, are among India’s major medal hopes. The athletics squad, led by Chopra, along with the weightlifting and boxing teams, are expected to play a crucial role in India’s medal campaign.

India had finished among the top five nations in the previous Commonwealth Games with 61 medals and will look to improve its performance in the ongoing edition.

The Commonwealth Sports Ministers’ discussions and India’s preparations for Ahmedabad 2030 reflect the country’s growing role in global sports and its ambition to host major international sporting events with modern infrastructure and world-class standards.

Young Indian Squash Star Anahat Singh Reaches World Junior Championship Quarterfinals

July 23: Indian squash player Anahat Singh has secured a place in the quarterfinals of the World Junior Squash Championship after an impressive run in the tournament.

Displaying remarkable skill, determination, and tactical strength, Anahat overcame strong international competition to advance to the last eight stage. Her consistent performances have highlighted her growing stature in junior squash and strengthened India’s presence on the global sporting platform.

The young athlete’s achievement has drawn praise from the sporting community, with expectations high as she continues her campaign in the prestigious championship. Anahat will now look to build on her momentum and secure a place in the semifinals.

Her progress reflects the growing talent pool in Indian squash and the emergence of promising young athletes capable of competing at the highest international level.

Cedars-Sinai Supports Local Nonprofits With Dollar 20 Million in Grants

LOS ANGELES, July 23: Cedars-Sinai has awarded Dollar 20 million to local nonprofits, reinforcing its commitment to advancing the health and wellbeing of Los Angeles communities.

During the fiscal year that ended June 30, the medical center supported organizations through 169 grants to address critical needs, including access to healthcare, housing stability, food security and other essential resources.

A $300,000 grant to the Los Angeles Food Policy Council will strengthen regional food access through CalFresh outreach and enrollment efforts. The funding will also support the infrastructure of local farmers markets and coordinated strategies to protect food-purchasing power and access to healthy, culturally relevant food for low-income residents.

The medical center has invested in regional food systems by backing local growers and issuing grants to programs such as FeedLA through the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles as well as YMCA Center for Community Well-Being locations.

A grant to ALMA Backyard Farms helped expand the urban agriculture infrastructure, workforce training opportunities and fresh food distribution in communities with limited access to healthy food and green space. This contribution includes aid toward the development of a new farm hub in Carson.

Shifts in public program protocols continue to reshape the social services landscape. Cedars-Sinai has pledged to expand its investments in community-based organizations.

The latest round of grants also included Dollar 250,000 to Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County to assist residents navigating programs like Medi-Cal, CalFresh, Covered California and Medicare.

To support healthy aging and quality of life programs, Cedars-Sinai awarded two grants to expand services for seniors and their caregivers. A grant to Comprehensive Community Health Centers will help increase behavioral health engagement and ensure those in need can receive effective medical treatment.

Watts Healthcare also received a grant to aid its Healthy Aging and Wellness Program that promotes physical, emotional and social wellbeing through preventive care, fitness and nutritional support, and mental health resources.

Cedars-Sinai funded two initiatives focused on homeless prevention and long-term support to those facing housing instability. According to the 2025 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count, more than 72,000 people experience homelessness on any given night across L.A. County.

A grant to the housing advocacy organization Brilliant Corners supported the Los Angeles County Homeless Prevention Unit’s efforts to provide flexible financial assistance to at-risk young adults in danger of losing housing.

A grant to local nonprofit Housing Works will fund enhanced training, professional development and wellness support for frontline staff serving those who have faced homelessness.

A Cedars-Sinai grant to Planned Parenthood Los Angeles will support care through the organization’s network of health centers, school-based wellbeing centers and its community outreach efforts.

“Cedars-Sinai is deeply compelled to continue providing support to organizational partners in their dedication to helping communities across this region,” said Andrea Iloulian, MPP, executive director of Grantmaking at Cedars-Sinai. “These organizations are on the front lines of improving access to medical care for everyone as well as providing food and housing assistance. This will help ensure vulnerable populations have the support and supplies they need to survive and thrive.”

NITI Aayog Gets New Leadership as Anurag Jain Appointed Chief Executive Officer

July 23: Senior IAS officer Anurag Jain has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NITI Aayog, bringing extensive administrative experience and policy expertise to the government’s premier public policy institution.

Jain’s appointment is expected to further strengthen NITI Aayog’s role in policy research, strategic planning, and facilitating collaboration between the Centre and states. The institution plays a key role in shaping development strategies, promoting innovation, and supporting evidence-based policymaking across various sectors.

A seasoned civil servant, Anurag Jain has held several important administrative responsibilities during his career, contributing to governance, infrastructure development, and public policy implementation. His experience in managing large-scale programmes and coordinating with multiple stakeholders is expected to support NITI Aayog’s future initiatives.

As CEO, Jain will oversee the organisation’s policy frameworks, research activities, and efforts to promote sustainable and inclusive growth. His leadership comes at a time when India is focusing on economic expansion, digital transformation, infrastructure development, and long-term development goals.

The government expressed confidence that Jain’s experience and administrative capabilities will help NITI Aayog continue its mission of strengthening policy innovation and supporting India’s development priorities.