Category Archives: News

National Drone Summit 2026 Highlights Drone Technology as the Next Growth Engine for Rural India

New Delhi, July 5, 2026: 

India took a significant step towards building a cooperative-led drone ecosystem with the successful hosting of the National Drone Summit 2026 at The Leela Palace, New Delhi. Organised by Drone Tech Multi-State Cooperative Society Ltd. in partnership with NSDC, the summit brought together policymakers, industry leaders, cooperatives, academia, and rural stakeholders under the theme “From Policy to Prosperity.”

A key highlight of the summit was the launch of three transformative national initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s drone ecosystem through cooperation, entrepreneurship, and skill development. The initiatives align with the vision of “Sahkar Se Samriddhi” and Viksit Bharat 2047.

The summit launched the Drone Tech Multi-State Cooperative Society Ltd., India’s first sector-focused multi-state cooperative for the drone industry. The Society will unite manufacturers, entrepreneurs, pilots, training institutions, startups, farmers, and service providers to promote collaboration and sustainable growth.

Another major announcement was the National Mission “1 Panchayat – 1 Drone Udyami,” which aims to create 2 lakh drone entrepreneurs across 2 lakh agriculture-based Panchayats over the next five years. The mission will expand drone services at the grassroots while generating employment and improving agricultural productivity.

The organisers also announced the establishment of 75 Advanced Skill Centres in partnership with NSDC. Set up across universities, engineering colleges, polytechnics, and Government ITIs, these centres will provide training in Drone Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, GIS & Remote Sensing, Electric Mobility, and other emerging technologies.

The summit was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Shri Tarun Chugh, Shri Kamlesh Paswan, Shri Mahipal Dhanda, Shri R.K. Gupta, Shri Anant Prakash Pandey, and Prof. Rajive Kumar, reflecting strong support from government, academia, and the cooperative sector.

The National Drone Technology Exhibition 2026 showcased innovations in agriculture drones, Make in India manufacturing, Drone-as-a-Service, pilot training, AI and GIS solutions, and drone financing. The exhibition attracted participation from government bodies, industry leaders, financial institutions, universities, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs.

A press conference held during the summit outlined the roadmap for the newly launched cooperative, the implementation of the Panchayat-level drone mission, and the rollout of the Advanced Skill Centres. Speakers emphasised collaboration as the key to building a robust and inclusive drone ecosystem.

The successful conclusion of the summit marks a significant step towards creating a cooperative-led, technology-driven drone ecosystem that will strengthen rural livelihoods, create employment opportunities, and contribute to India’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Akhil Bharatiya Jansangh Reaffirms Commitment to Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s Vision at National Conference Closing

New Delhi, July 5, 2026

Akhil Bharatiya Jansangh organised a National Conference on Sunday at the Deputy Speaker Hall, Constitution Club of India, New Delhi, to commemorate the 126th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. The event witnessed the participation of the organisation’s national and state office-bearers, workers, academicians, social leaders, and intellectuals from across the country, who paid floral tributes to Dr. Mookerjee and reaffirmed their commitment to carrying forward his nationalist ideals.

The conference was convened and conducted by Mr. Rugeshwar Khandwal, Assam State President of Akhil Bharatiya Jansangh and Convenor of the National Conference. Welcoming the guests and delegates from across the country, he said that such a large national gathering of the organisation had taken place after a long time, with participation from several states.

Former Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Mr. Praful Dwarkadas Goradia attended the event as the Chief Guest. In his address, he spoke about Indian culture and the philosophy of nationalism rooted in Hindutva, stating that India’s civilisational ethos has always been one of social harmony and unity. He also referred to his newly published book, “Ram Rajya,” and said it presents a fresh perspective on the Indian model of governance.

The conference was presided over by Acharya Dr. Bharat Bhushan Pandey, National President of Akhil Bharatiya Jansangh. In his presidential address, he said that Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee dedicated his entire life to safeguarding national unity, cultural nationalism, and democratic values. He added that Dr. Mookerjee’s ideals remain equally relevant today and should be carried forward to the younger generation.

In his welcome address, Mr. Rugeshwar Khandwal described Dr. Mookerjee’s life and legacy as a source of inspiration for the youth of the country. He said that the message of placing national interest above all else continues to be highly relevant. He also appealed to the Central Government, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and the Government of Assam to work together with organisations sharing similar ideological values and to accord due recognition to the historical role and contribution of Akhil Bharatiya Jansangh.

Among those who addressed the gathering were National General Secretary Desh Kumar Kaushik, National Education Minister A. J. Sharma, V. K. Ramnarendri, Sudesh Bhardwaj, Uttar Pradesh President Kundi Pandey, Jammu & Kashmir Unit President Dr. Bharat Roshan Pandey, Gopalbhai Patel from Gujarat, Ashwini Datta, Anil Kumar Sharma, Santosh Tiwari, Dr. Monika Rathore, Dr. Suresh Bhardwaj, Dr. Jyoti Yatri, Dr. Goldie Khanna, Dr. Ravi Srivastava, C. S. Rao, and several other national and state office-bearers from different parts of the country.

The speakers observed that Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s contribution towards national integration, education, good governance, and the strengthening of democratic values remains a significant chapter in India’s history. They called upon the youth to draw inspiration from his life, vision, and unwavering commitment to nation-building.

Delegates and workers from Delhi, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, and several other states participated in the conference. The programme concluded with a renewed pledge towards nation-building and resonated with slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Akhil Bharatiya Jansangh.”

Maharashtra: Heavy Rainfall Brings Waterlogging and Traffic Jams

July 4: Heavy rainfall across several parts of Maharashtra has led to widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions, affecting normal life in multiple regions of the state.

Continuous downpours have inundated low-lying areas, causing inconvenience to commuters and slowing vehicular movement in major cities and towns. Traffic congestion was reported on key roads as water accumulated in several stretches.

Local authorities have been deployed to manage the situation, with civic teams working to clear waterlogged areas and restore normal traffic flow. Emergency response measures have been activated in vulnerable locations to address rain-related disruptions.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with disaster management teams to ensure public safety. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain cautious in affected areas.

EPFO Introduces Three-Day PF Claim Settlement, Expands Auto-Processing for Subscribers

New Delhi, July 5 (UDN): The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a series of reforms aimed at simplifying and expediting provident fund (PF) claim settlements, with eligible claims now set to be processed within three days under an enhanced auto-settlement mechanism.

 Representational Image

The move is intended to improve service delivery and provide faster access to provident fund savings for millions of subscribers across the country.

Under the revised system, eligible advance claims meeting prescribed conditions will be processed automatically without manual intervention, significantly reducing the settlement time from the earlier processing period. The reforms are expected to benefit subscribers seeking withdrawals for medical treatment, education, housing, marriage and other approved purposes.

EPFO has also expanded the scope of auto-claim settlement by easing verification requirements and leveraging digital services to minimise delays. Officials said the initiative is part of the organisation’s ongoing efforts to make PF-related services more transparent, efficient and user-friendly.

The organisation has advised subscribers to ensure that their Universal Account Number (UAN) is activated and linked with Aadhaar, PAN and bank account details to facilitate seamless claim processing. Members have also been encouraged to keep their KYC details updated to avoid delays or rejection of claims.

According to EPFO, the digital reforms are expected to reduce paperwork, improve claim disposal efficiency and enhance the overall experience for more than seven crore provident fund subscribers across the country.

Officials said the latest measures form part of the government’s broader push towards digital governance and time-bound delivery of citizen-centric services.

Subscribers can file and track their claims through the EPFO’s online member portal and the UMANG mobile application.

Swaranjali Delhi to Present ‘Baithaki 2026’ in Association with Eternal Oasis Gurugram on August 8

Gurugram, July 4, 2026: Swaranjali Delhi, in association with Eternal Oasis Gurugram, will present Baithaki 2026, an evening dedicated to Indian classical music, on August 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The event will be held at Prakriti Hall, 1st Floor, Eternal Oasis, 591A, Sector 42 Main Road, Gurugram, Haryana.

The musical evening will feature acclaimed Hindustani vocalist Dr. Veena Kedar Sawale and renowned Carnatic vocalist Smt. Sudha Raghuraman, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience two of India’s rich classical music traditions on a single मंच.

The performances will be accompanied by distinguished co-artists Shri G. Raghuraman, Shri Jitendra Swain, Shri M.V. Chander Shekar, and Kshitij Singh, who will add depth and excellence to the concert through their instrumental accompaniment.

Baithaki 2026 aims to celebrate India’s classical music heritage while providing a platform for connoisseurs and music enthusiasts to enjoy soulful performances in an intimate concert setting. Organizers have extended a cordial invitation to music lovers, patrons of the arts, and the general public to attend the event.

Those interested in attending may register or seek further information by visiting www.swaranjali.org or www.eternaloasis.org, or by contacting +91-9910300319 or +91-9773565708.

Shreyas Webmedia Solutions is the Digital Media Partner for the event.

PM Modi Inaugurates New Jodhpur Airport Terminal, Launches Modified UDAN Scheme to Boost Regional Connectivity

July 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport, marking a significant step in strengthening aviation infrastructure and enhancing regional connectivity in Rajasthan.

The project has been developed at a total cost of ₹480 crore and spans more than 23,000 square metres. The modern terminal is designed to handle up to 20 lakh passengers annually, significantly increasing the airport’s capacity to manage growing air traffic in the region.

The newly built terminal combines contemporary infrastructure with architectural elements inspired by Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage. It has been equipped with modern passenger facilities to ensure a seamless, efficient, and comfortable travel experience.

Officials stated that the upgraded infrastructure is expected to boost tourism, trade, and employment generation in Jodhpur and surrounding areas. The expansion is also aligned with efforts to improve last-mile connectivity and support economic development through enhanced air transport facilities.

The airport currently handles over 10 lakh passengers annually, with traffic witnessing steady growth over the years. The new terminal is expected to further strengthen operational efficiency and support future expansion in passenger movement.

During the event, the Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of improving aviation infrastructure to meet rising travel demand and support India’s economic growth.

The inauguration of the new terminal marks a key milestone in Jodhpur’s aviation development and reinforces the government’s focus on modern, sustainable, and passenger-friendly airport infrastructure.

Tamil Nadu Launches 200 MW Govt Rooftop Solar Project

July 4: Tamil Nadu has announced an ambitious plan to develop a 200 MW rooftop solar power project across 200 government buildings, marking a significant step toward expanding renewable energy adoption and improving energy efficiency in the public sector.

The initiative aims to harness rooftop solar potential in government offices, institutions, and public buildings to generate clean electricity, reduce dependency on conventional power sources, and lower long-term energy costs for the state. The project is expected to contribute meaningfully to Tamil Nadu’s broader clean energy and carbon reduction goals.

Under the proposed plan, solar installations will be deployed across selected government offices, with each facility contributing to decentralized power generation. The distributed nature of rooftop solar systems is expected to enhance energy resilience while optimizing unused rooftop space in public infrastructure.

Officials indicated that the project will be implemented in phases, with a focus on ensuring technical feasibility, grid integration, and efficient energy management. The generated solar power is expected to support daytime electricity needs of government buildings, thereby improving energy efficiency and reducing operational expenses.

The initiative aligns with India’s national renewable energy targets and supports Tamil Nadu’s position as one of the leading states in solar energy adoption. It also reflects the government’s continued emphasis on sustainable development, green infrastructure, and climate-conscious policymaking.

Experts believe the project will not only reduce carbon emissions but also serve as a model for large-scale rooftop solar deployment in the public sector. It is expected to encourage wider adoption of clean energy solutions across other states and institutions.

Once completed, the 200 MW rooftop solar network will represent one of the largest government-led rooftop solar initiatives in the country, reinforcing Tamil Nadu’s commitment to advancing renewable energy and achieving long-term energy sustainability goals.

Massive Gas Evacuation After Ammonia Leak in Tiruvallur Unit

July 4: A massive gas removal and safety containment operation is currently underway at a seafood processing unit in Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu, following an ammonia gas leak that triggered an immediate emergency response from district authorities and specialized disaster management teams.

Soon after the leak was detected, emergency personnel including fire and rescue services, hazardous materials handling experts, and local administrative officials rushed to the site and initiated swift containment measures. The facility was promptly secured to prevent further exposure, and access to the surrounding area was restricted as a precautionary step to ensure public safety.

The ongoing operation involves the use of advanced gas evacuation equipment and established industrial safety protocols to safely extract and neutralize residual ammonia from the premises. Authorities are closely supervising the process to ensure that the site is fully stabilized before any resumption of operations is permitted.

As part of precautionary measures, nearby workers and residents were advised to avoid the vicinity while containment and decontamination efforts continued. Medical support teams were placed on standby to respond to any potential health impacts, while continuous monitoring of air quality was carried out in and around the affected area.

An inquiry has been launched to determine the cause of the leak and to assess adherence to mandatory industrial safety standards at the facility. Officials stated that appropriate corrective actions will be taken based on the findings to prevent similar incidents in the future and strengthen safety compliance across similar industrial units.

Authorities emphasized that the primary focus remains on ensuring complete safety at the site, minimizing environmental impact, and restoring normal operations only after thorough verification and clearance.

The incident underscores the critical importance of stringent safety protocols in industrial facilities handling hazardous chemicals and highlights the need for continued vigilance and preparedness to manage such emergencies effectively.

International Travel Takes Off Again as India’s Aviation Sector Gains Fresh Momentum

July 4: India’s aviation industry is witnessing a steady revival in international passenger traffic as easing global tensions and improving travel conditions encourage more people to fly overseas. The recovery signals renewed confidence among travelers and airlines, reflecting stronger demand for both business and leisure travel.

International airlines and Indian carriers have reported a noticeable increase in bookings on overseas routes, supported by improved connectivity, expanding flight schedules, and growing demand from tourists, business travelers, and the Indian diaspora. The restoration of key international routes and the addition of new destinations have further strengthened the sector’s recovery.

The increase in international passenger traffic has also boosted activity at airports across the country, with higher passenger volumes and aircraft movements contributing to the aviation ecosystem’s overall growth. The resurgence is expected to generate positive spillover effects for tourism, hospitality, retail, and other travel-related industries, supporting employment and economic activity.

The easing of geopolitical uncertainties has played a significant role in restoring traveler confidence, allowing airlines to gradually expand operations and optimize capacity on major international routes. Combined with India’s strong economic growth, rising disposable incomes, and increasing preference for air travel, these factors are creating a favourable environment for sustained expansion in the aviation sector.

India continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets through ongoing investments in airport infrastructure, improved connectivity, and supportive government initiatives. These developments are enhancing the country’s ability to cater to rising passenger demand while reinforcing its role as a key global aviation hub.

Looking ahead, industry experts expect international passenger traffic to maintain its upward momentum, driven by robust travel demand, expanded airline networks, and improving global conditions. While external uncertainties remain, the sector’s continued recovery reflects the resilience of India’s aviation industry and its readiness to capitalize on emerging growth opportunities.

The renewed growth in international travel highlights the sector’s strong fundamentals and reinforces confidence in India’s long-term aviation growth story.

India Emerges as M&A Powerhouse with USD 86.9 Billion in Deal Value

July 4: India’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market recorded a significant upswing, with total deal value rising 31% to USD 86.9 billion, underscoring strong investor confidence and sustained corporate expansion across key sectors. The sharp increase reflects a growing appetite among domestic and international companies to pursue strategic acquisitions, strengthen market presence, and unlock long-term growth opportunities.

The robust performance was driven by several high-value transactions spanning industries such as financial services, technology, healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and consumer goods. Companies continued to leverage mergers and acquisitions as a strategic tool to enhance operational efficiencies, expand product portfolios, access new markets, and accelerate digital transformation initiatives.

India’s resilient economic growth, favourable demographic profile, improving regulatory environment, and expanding consumer market have continued to make the country an attractive destination for both strategic and financial investors. Strong participation from private equity firms, sovereign wealth funds, and global corporations further contributed to the rise in deal activity during the period.

Cross-border transactions also remained an important component of the M&A landscape, reflecting increasing global interest in India’s growth story. International investors continued to view India as a preferred investment destination, supported by stable macroeconomic fundamentals, ongoing infrastructure development, and government-led reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business.

Industry experts believe the continued momentum in mergers and acquisitions demonstrates the confidence of businesses in India’s long-term economic prospects. As companies focus on scaling operations, enhancing competitiveness, and responding to evolving market dynamics, M&A activity is expected to remain a key driver of corporate growth.

Looking ahead, the deal-making environment is expected to remain favourable, supported by healthy corporate balance sheets, ample liquidity, increasing digital adoption, and sustained investor interest. While global economic uncertainties may influence transaction timelines, India’s strong economic fundamentals are likely to continue attracting strategic investments and supporting robust M&A activity in the months ahead.

The rise in deal value highlights the growing maturity of India’s corporate ecosystem and reinforces the country’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic and attractive markets for mergers and acquisitions.