26, Jun 2026
Strait of Hormuz Shipping Traffic Recovers to 57 pc of Pre-Conflict Levels: Report
June 26: Vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has recovered to approximately 57% of pre-conflict levels, indicating a gradual stabilisation in one of the world’s most critical maritime and energy transit routes, according to a recent shipping and trade monitoring report.
The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is a vital chokepoint for global energy flows, particularly crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments from major producing countries in the Middle East to international markets. Any disruption in this narrow waterway typically has a significant impact on global energy supply chains and price stability.
The report highlighted that shipping activity in the region has improved steadily following earlier disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions. However, overall traffic remains below normal levels as shipping companies continue to adopt cautious routing strategies amid lingering security concerns.
Industry analysts noted that while the rebound in vessel movement reflects improving operational conditions, the pace of recovery remains uneven. Many shipping operators and insurers continue to factor in elevated risk premiums, which is affecting voyage planning and limiting a full return to pre-conflict shipping volumes.
The Strait of Hormuz remains under close observation by global energy markets, insurers, and maritime authorities due to its strategic importance and its role in facilitating a significant share of the world’s seaborne energy trade. Analysts say sustained stability in the region will be crucial for a complete recovery in shipping traffic in the coming months.
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- By Neel Achary
26, Jun 2026
India Reviews Residual Shelf-Life Norms for Imported Pharmaceuticals
New Delhi, June 26: The government has invited comments and suggestions from stakeholders on the proposed framework concerning residual shelf-life requirements for imported pharmaceutical products, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory clarity and ensure the availability of quality medicines in the country.
The consultation exercise aims to review and rationalise existing provisions governing the minimum residual shelf-life required for drugs at the time of import clearance. The objective is to ensure a balanced approach that safeguards patient safety while also improving ease of doing business for the pharmaceutical sector.
Officials said the proposed review seeks to align regulatory requirements with current global practices and supply chain realities, particularly in cases where medicines are imported to meet urgent clinical or public health needs. The initiative is also expected to reduce procedural bottlenecks and improve the efficiency of drug availability in the domestic market.
Stakeholders, including pharmaceutical manufacturers, importers, industry associations, healthcare professionals, and other concerned parties, have been requested to submit their comments and feedback within the stipulated timeframe.
The government will examine all suggestions received during the consultation process before finalising the revised guidelines on residual shelf-life requirements for imported drugs. The updated framework is expected to enhance regulatory transparency while ensuring uninterrupted access to essential medicines.
26, Jun 2026
AVer Receives 2026 Unified Communications Product of the Year Award from TMCnet
Taipei, Taiwan – June 26: AVer Information Inc., an award-winning provider of AI audio-video solutions, announced today that TMC, a global, integrated media company helping clients build communities via in person and digital marketing campaigns has named the VB150 as a 2026 Unified Communications Product of the Year Award winner.
“We are honored to receive TMC’s 2026 Unified Communications Product of the Year Award for the VB150,” said Marc Happes, Sr. Product Manager at AVer Information Inc. “The VB150 was designed to simplify hybrid collaboration in smaller meeting rooms while delivering exceptional video and audio experiences for every participant. TMCnet’s recognition reflects our commitment to creating innovative solutions that help organizations communicate and collaborate more effectively in today’s dynamic workplace.”
AVer’s VB150 is a next-generation USB video bar designed to make hybrid collaboration effortless, accessible and highly impactful. Built specifically for huddle rooms and small meeting spaces, the VB150 combines powerful 4K video performance, intelligent AI features and simple plug-and-play connectivity to deliver seamless hybrid meeting experiences for BYOD and PC-based room solutions.
The VB150 features a high-performance 4K camera with a 120° wide-angle lens, ensuring every participant is clearly visible and included in the conversation. The VB150 also includes intelligent features such as AI Voice Tracking, which automatically follows the active speaker, while Smart Composition frames all meeting participants for a balanced, engaging view. Together, these capabilities create a natural and inclusive meeting experience without requiring manual camera adjustments.
The VB150’s advanced audio system ensures every voice is heard clearly. Equipped with five beamforming microphones and AI noise reduction, the system captures speech accurately while minimizing background distractions. An optional expansion microphone can further extend audio pickup range, making the VB150 adaptable to a variety of room layouts.
“It gives me great pleasure to honor AVer as a 2026 recipient of TMC’s Unified Communications Product of the Year Award for their innovative solution, VB150,” said Rich Tehrani, CEO, TMC. “Our judges were very impressed with the ingenuity and excellence displayed by AVer in their groundbreaking work on VB150.”
Winners of the 2026 Unified Communications Product of the Year Award will be announced online and highlighted in INTERNET TELEPHONY magazine online.
26, Jun 2026
itel Power 451 Debuts with AI ENC, Type C Charging and 2500 mAh Battery
June 26: itel, one of the leading tech brands known for democratizing technology for Bharat, has recently launched its latest feature phone, the itel Power 451, bringing innovative technology generally found in premium smartphones to the feature phone category. With the introduction of AI Environmental Noise Cancellation (AI–ENC) – only provided by itel in Feature Phones in India – the itel Power 451 ensures clear and uninterrupted conversations by intelligently reducing surrounding noise from crowded markets, busy streets, workplaces and other noisy environments. The itel Power 451 phone is available in super stylish colours of Blue, Green, Purple and Black – now available at retail stores. itel also offers an exciting 1-year Counter Replacement offer for any manufacturing defect in feature phones
Commenting on the launch, Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of itel India, said, “At itel, our focus has always been to bring meaningful innovations that solve real consumer challenges while keeping technology accessible for every Indian. AI ENC technology was introduced in feature phones by itel and we are continuing this further with Power 451. For us, innovation has always has been about what makes the daily lives of consumers better.”
Continuing the brand’s commitment to delivering tangible benefits to consumers, the phone comes with a free back cover inside the box that is only offered by itel in the feature phone industry, allowing users to protect their device from day one without any additional expense. Further elevating the experience, the Power 451 features Type–C charging support, bringing the convenience of a universal, modern charging solution that is commonly associated with smartphones. It is also equipped with a powerful 2500 mAh battery that delivers up to 55 days of standby time with Super Battery Mode, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for users who depend on their phones throughout the day. The latest Cyber Media Research (CMR) report on The Rising Role of Durability, Reliability, and Affordability in India’s Device Market has demonstrated strong all-round performance of itel – securing impressive scores of 0.65 in feature phones and 0.86 in smartphones – highest in the segment. Additionally, 85% of consumers feel they get great value for money, 81% associate itel with strength and durability, 79% appreciate its design, and 74% consider it a trustworthy and reliable brand.
The Power 451 is a well-rounded device, built for sustained outdoor use. Equipped with a big 2.4-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless FM radio with recording, 60 call logs, and 32GB of expandable storage, Built around the evolving needs of feature phone users, itel POWER 451 combines meaningful innovation, everyday convenience and exceptional value. By combining advanced call clarity, reliable battery life, modern charging convenience and thoughtful additions like a complimentary protective back cover, the device strengthens itel’s vision of making innovative technology accessible to millions of consumers across India.
26, Jun 2026
Crude Oil Extends Losses, Set for Weekly Drop
June 26: Crude oil prices fell by up to 2% in early trading on Friday, extending losses through the week amid concerns over supply-demand imbalances and shifting global market sentiment.
Benchmark crude contracts continued to remain under pressure as investors weighed expectations of steady production levels against uncertain demand outlooks in key consuming regions. The decline has put oil prices on track for their sharpest weekly losses in recent weeks.
Market analysts said the downward trend reflects cautious trading sentiment, with participants closely tracking global economic indicators, inventory data, and production signals from major oil-producing nations.
Despite short-term volatility, energy markets remain sensitive to geopolitical developments and policy decisions that could influence future supply dynamics.
Traders are expected to monitor upcoming economic data and industry reports for further direction in global crude price movements.
26, Jun 2026
India, UK Explore New Avenues to Strengthen Economic and Trade Partnership: Piyush Goyal
New Delhi, June 26: India and the United Kingdom are exploring new opportunities to further deepen their economic and trade partnership, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday.
Goyal said both countries are actively engaged in discussions aimed at expanding bilateral trade, enhancing investment flows, and identifying new areas of cooperation to strengthen the overall economic relationship.
He noted that the India–UK partnership continues to offer significant growth potential across key sectors, including technology, manufacturing, services, and innovation. According to him, ongoing engagements reflect a shared commitment to building a stronger, more balanced, and mutually beneficial trade relationship.
The minister added that closer economic cooperation between the two countries will help create new opportunities for businesses and contribute to long-term economic growth on both sides.
India and the UK have been regularly engaging through high-level dialogues to further deepen their strategic and economic ties.
26, Jun 2026
Muharram Holiday: Stock Markets to Remain Closed
Mumbai, June 26: The Indian stock markets will remain closed today on account of Muharram, a scheduled trading holiday.
Both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE) will not conduct trading in equity, equity derivatives, securities lending and borrowing (SLB), and currency derivatives segments. Normal trading activities will resume on the next working day.
The closure is in line with the official holiday calendar issued by the stock exchanges. Investors and market participants have been advised to plan their trading and settlement activities accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.
While markets remain closed, investors can still access their trading platforms to view portfolios and place orders, which will be processed once trading resumes.
The exchanges periodically release trading holiday schedules to ensure smooth functioning and advance planning for all stakeholders in the financial markets.
26, Jun 2026
Daimler Truck Innovation Center India Pvt. Ltd. and United Way Bengaluru Restore 25-Acre Kithaganur Lake, Benefiting over 24,000 Residents
June 26: Daimler Truck Innovation Center India, in partnership with United Way Bengaluru (UWBe), has supported the rejuvenation of Kithaganur Lake, a 25-acre water body in East Bengaluru, under UWBe’s flagship Wake the Lake campaign. The rejuvenated lake was formally handed over to the gram panchayat on June 5, World Environment Day, reinforcing the shared vision of restoring Bengaluru’s vital water ecosystems.
The intervention has resulted in a 22% increase in the lake’s water-holding capacity, benefiting over 24,000 residents in the surrounding communities. The rejuvenated lake now supports approximately 65 species of flora and fauna and is expected to contribute nearly 9 tonnes of carbon sequestration annually.
Over the years, Kithaganur Lake has suffered from silt accumulation, sewage inflow, encroachments, and blocked feeder channels, reducing its water-holding capacity and affecting the surrounding ecosystem. The rejuvenation has involved scientific de-silting, fencing, clearing water channels, biodiversity enhancement, and community engagement to ensure long-term conservation.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Smt. Manjula Arvind Limbavali, MLA, Mahadevpura Constituency, appreciated the collaborative efforts that brought Kithaganur Lake back to life and emphasized that lake rejuvenation is only the first step in a longer journey of environmental stewardship. She noted that the Solid Waste Management team must now play an active role in supporting the next phase of the lake’s development. She further urged the community, local authorities, and all stakeholders to take collective responsibility for protecting the lake, ensuring that it does not fall back into previous state. “A rejuvenated lake can remain healthy only when every citizen becomes its guardian. It is our shared responsibility to preserve this asset for future generations,” she said.
“The rejuvenation of Kithaganur Lake is a powerful example of how collaborative action can drive meaningful impact. Through our partnership with United Way Bengaluru, and a close collaboration with Shishu Mandir, Panchayath, we are proud to contribute to sustainable urban development and help create lasting benefits for both communities and the environment”, said, Mr. Radhakrishna Kodakkal – Managing Director and CEO, Daimler Truck Innovation Center India
“Lakes are among Bengaluru’s most valuable natural assets. Through the ‘Wake the Lake’ campaign, we are not only rejuvenating water bodies but also fostering community ownership and creating sustainable environmental impact. By bringing together committed partners such as Daimler Truck Innovation Center India, local communities, and government stakeholders, we are creating healthier ecosystems and a more water-secure Bengaluru, said Sriram Ananthanarayan, Director, United Way Bengaluru.
With the restoration of Kithaganuru Lake, Daimler Truck Innovation Center India strengthens its commitment to environmental conservation – Prakruthi Mitra, sustainable urban development, and creating lasting positive impact for communities through ecological restoration.
26, Jun 2026
Odisha Speaker Appoints Pramila Mallik to Head Public Accounts Committee for 2026–27
Bhubaneswar, June 26: Senior Biju Janata Dal (BJD) leader and Chief Whip of the BJD Legislature Party, Pramila Mallik, has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Odisha Legislative Assembly for the financial year 2026–27.
The appointment was made by Speaker Surama Padhy through a notification issued by the Odisha Legislative Assembly Secretariat. Mallik was nominated to head the committee under Rule 197(1) of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of the Odisha Legislative Assembly.
The 12-member Public Accounts Committee has been constituted under Rule 135(1) of the Assembly’s Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business.
The committee comprises Chairperson Pramila Mallik along with members Rama Chandra Kadam, Dr. Aruna Kumar Sahu, Ganeswar Behera, Sanatan Bijuli, Akash Dasnayak, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, Ashok Mohanty, Babu Singh, Santosh Khatua, Amar Kumar Nayak and Arabinda Mohapatra.
The Public Accounts Committee is one of the most significant financial oversight bodies of the Odisha Legislative Assembly. It examines the reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India and scrutinises government expenditure to ensure that public funds are utilised in accordance with legislative approvals and established financial norms. The committee plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability and fiscal discipline in public administration.
The constitution of the committee for 2026–27 is expected to further strengthen legislative oversight over the state’s financial management and expenditure.
26, Jun 2026
TDP MP Vijay Chinthakayala’s Oath Echoes Mangalagiri Weavers Legacy
New Delhi/Visakhapatnam, June 26: On a historic day for Andhra Pradesh in the nation’s capital, newly elected Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Vijay Chinthakayala Ayyannapatrudu took oath as a Member of the Rajya Sabha on June 25. He was joined by fellow TDP MPs Sana Satish Babu and Bhashyam Rama Krishna, alongside Jana Sena Party’s Lingamaneni Ramesh, marking a significant sweep for NDA in Rajya Sabha.
Elected under the leadership of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and TDP Minister Nara Lokesh, MP Vijay marked the occasion by wearing a traditional Mangalagiri cotton shawl, bringing national attention to one of Andhra Pradesh’s most cherished handloom traditions.
The shawl carries a significance far beyond ceremonial attire. Every thread of that shawl traces its origins to Mangalagiri, the historic temple town in Guntur district and the Assembly constituency represented by Andhra Pradesh IT, Electronics and Human Resources Minister Nara Lokesh. Mangalagiri cotton carries over 500 years of recorded history.
During the Qutub Shahi period in 1593, heavy taxes on handloom products forced many weavers to leave the region, dealing a severe blow to the industry. Yet the craft endured. It adapted, recovered and continued to be passed down through generations. Today, Mangalagiri cotton enjoys Geographical Indication (GI) status, recognised for its distinctive weave and craftsmanship. Yet behind this celebrated legacy lies a painful reality.
In the early 1990s, Mangalagiri was home to nearly 20,000 weavers. Today, only about 6,000 active handloom weavers remain. Rising costs, shrinking margins and competition from machine-made imitations have steadily reduced the community that once made Mangalagiri one of India’s most vibrant weaving centres.
That is why Vijay Chinthakayala Ayyannapatrudu’s choice resonated far beyond symbolism. The gesture reflects the vision of TDP Minister Nara Lokesh who has been unambiguous about his commitment to this community. “Weavers are not workers. They are craftsmen. It is a God-given skill,” Nara Lokesh once remarked, announcing a Rs. 250 crore market intervention fund for international branding of Mangalagiri cotton back in 2019. “It will be my responsibility to attend the grievances of each and every weaver,” he pledged.
When Vijay Chinthakayala Ayyannapatrudu took oath in the Rajya Sabha, the shawl on his shoulders carried the hopes of thousands of weaving families, the pride of a centuries-old tradition and the promise that the voice of Mangalagiri’s artisans would be heard in the highest forums of the nation.
