15, Apr 2026
Indian Railways Announces Special Trains from Odisha for Summer Rush
Apr 15 (BNP): To manage the surge in passenger demand during the summer holiday season, Indian Railways has announced the operation of several special trains connecting Odisha with major cities across India.
The move is aimed at easing travel pressure on regular services and offering passengers more convenient and comfortable options during peak vacation time.
Officials said the additional trains will help reduce overcrowding and improve connectivity for long-distance travellers, making summer journeys smoother and more accessible.
The increased services are also expected to support tourism, as better rail connectivity will encourage more people to visit popular destinations during the holiday season while boosting travel activity across regions.
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- By Neel Achary
15, Apr 2026
GIA 2.0 Soon to Expand Karnataka’s Tech Partnerships
Apr 15 (BNP): Karnataka’s Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) has emerged as a strong platform for international technology collaboration, helping connect startups, innovators, and institutions across global markets.
The initiative has facilitated partnerships between Karnataka-based startups and global innovation ecosystems, strengthening knowledge exchange and access to international opportunities.
Officials said the programme has helped position Karnataka as a leading hub for innovation-driven growth and global tech engagement.
The state is now preparing to launch GIA 2.0, which is expected to further expand global partnerships and enhance support for emerging technologies and startups.
15, Apr 2026
CNH Launches Pond Restoration Drive to Promote Water Conservation and Community Wellbeing
Greater Noida, April 15: CNH, a global leader in agriculture and construction equipment, launched its new CSR initiative, ‘Sarovar Sanrakshan’ (pond conservation), at Sunpura, Greater Noida, near its Tractor and Engine manufacturing plant. The project aims to rejuvenate the heritage Bhola Rawal Pond and transform it into an ecologically balanced and vibrant public space that promotes water conservation, biodiversity, and community wellbeing.
The Bhola Rawal Pond Restoration Project will focus on the ecological restoration of the 6.77-hectare water body, including enhancements to aquatic ecosystem functions. The initiative will also improve community health and safety by mitigating environmental hazards such as foul odors and insect breeding. Through the adoption of green infrastructure, including plantation drives, wetland systems, and solar lighting, the project seeks to promote environmental sustainability. It will also support long-term community ownership through a village-led water body management committee.
Commenting on the initiative, Ravi Kundra, Director Manufacturing (Agriculture), CNH India said,
“Sarovar Sarankshan embodies our long-term commitment to responsible growth and sustainable community development in India. Water bodies are critical ecological assets that sustain biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and directly impact public health and livelihoods. Through the restoration of the Bhola Rawal Pond, we are not only revitalizing a historic water resource but also creating a scalable, community-driven model for integrated water management. Our focus is on building ecological balance while empowering local stakeholders to take collective ownership for its sustained preservation.”
Aligned with CNH’s CSR guidelines and broader sustainability commitments, the initiative contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6.6 on protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems and SDG 13 on Climate Action. The program was launched in the presence of members of the CNH Noida Plant leadership team – Sandeep Gupta, Director Sales (Ag), Sanjay Shridhar, Director Supply Chain, Rajender Chaudhry, Director Parts and Service, along with India CSR lead Kavita Sah &project implementation partner, ISAP India Foundation officials, Naveen Jha, Ashish Tiwari and Manish Paithankar.
15, Apr 2026
NBFCs to Rely More on Bank Borrowings in FY27 Amid Lower Interest Rates
Apr 15 (BNP): Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) in India are expected to depend more on bank borrowings in FY27 as lower interest rates make bank funding more attractive, according to a rating agency report.
The report noted that the share of bank borrowings in overall NBFC funding rose to about 43% in FY26, supported by strong lending activity in the second half of the year. This share is likely to increase further, reaching up to 45% in FY27.
With banks offering comparatively cheaper loans, NBFCs are gradually shifting away from debt capital market issuances, which are expected to see slower growth in the coming period.
Overall, the trend reflects a changing funding mix in the NBFC sector, with bank credit playing a larger role in meeting financing needs.
15, Apr 2026
FICCI Appoints Anant Swarup as Secretary General
New Delhi, Apr 15 (BNP): The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has appointed Anant Swarup as its Secretary General with immediate effect.
FICCI said the appointment strengthens its senior leadership structure, while Jyoti Vij will continue to serve as Director General.
Anant Swarup brings over 30 years of experience in public policy, trade remedies, logistics, regulatory reforms, and international negotiations. He has held several senior positions in the central government across key administrative and economic domains.
The chamber stated that his appointment is expected to further strengthen its policy advocacy and engagement with industry stakeholders in India and abroad.
15, Apr 2026
PANVIS STAR Robotic System Advances Remote Mechanical Thrombectomy Technology
Apr 15 (BNP): PANVIS STAR, a vascular interventional robotic system developed by Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Biomedical Robot Co., Ltd. (abrobo), is being positioned as a major advancement in neurointerventional treatment for ischemic stroke.
Ischemic stroke remains a leading global health concern, with millions of new cases reported each year. Access to mechanical thrombectomy (MT), the standard treatment for large vessel occlusion, is often limited by uneven healthcare infrastructure, shortage of specialists, and procedural complexity.
The PANVIS STAR system is designed to address these challenges by enabling remotely controlled, high-precision thrombectomy procedures. In preclinical studies using an animal model of arterial occlusion, the system successfully completed the entire MT workflow, including vascular access, angiography, lesion navigation, device placement, and clot retrieval.
The robotic platform demonstrated coordinated control of multiple devices, including guiding catheters, microcatheters, and stent retrievers, enabling smooth and precise execution of the procedure. The intervention achieved complete vessel reopening, supported by sub-millimeter accuracy, force sensing, and haptic feedback.
Researchers say the technology could help reduce operator fatigue, improve procedural consistency, and expand access to advanced stroke treatment in regions with limited specialist availability.
The PANVIS STAR system represents a significant step forward in robotic-assisted neurointervention and the future of minimally invasive stroke care.
15, Apr 2026
Gold ETFs AUM Surges to INR 1.7 Lakh Crore in March Amid Global Uncertainty
New Delhi, Apr 15 (BNP): Gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in India recorded strong growth in March 2026, with total assets under management (AUM) rising to ₹1,71,468.4 crore.
According to ICRA Analytics data, the AUM has nearly tripled compared to the same period last year, reflecting rising investor interest in gold as a safe-haven asset amid global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
The report also shows that gold ETFs have delivered a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 64.76% over the past five years, increasing significantly from ₹14,122.72 crore in March 2021.
Experts attribute the surge to growing participation from both retail and institutional investors, who prefer gold ETFs for their ease of trading, transparency, and convenience compared to physical gold.
The trend highlights a continued shift toward digital gold investment as part of diversified portfolios during volatile market conditions.
15, Apr 2026
Odisha to Roll Out Slot Booking System for Puri Jagannath Temple Darshan
Apr 15 (BNP): The Odisha government is set to introduce a slot-based booking system for darshan at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, while retaining the existing queue (dhadi) system, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said on Wednesday.
He stated that both systems will operate simultaneously to improve crowd management and ensure a smoother darshan experience for devotees.
Under the new arrangement, devotees who book time slots will be guided to a designated holding area before proceeding for darshan of the Holy Trinity, helping reduce waiting time and streamline visitor flow.
The government is also planning infrastructure upgrades inside the temple complex, including the proposed air-conditioning of the Nata Mandap. The tender process for the project is currently underway.
The initiative aims to make darshan more organised and hassle-free while preserving traditional worship practices at the shrine.
15, Apr 2026
Akshay Kumar and Wamiqa Gabbi Light Up SGT University During ‘Bhooth Bangla’ Promotions
Apr 15 (BNP): Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar and actress Wamiqa Gabbi brought high energy and excitement to SGT University in Gurugram during the promotions of their upcoming film Bhooth Bangla.
Akshay Kumar made a grand helicopter entry, which immediately set the campus abuzz with cheers and excitement from students. The university grounds turned into a lively celebration space as a large crowd gathered to catch a glimpse of the stars.
During the event, Akshay interacted with students, shared motivational thoughts on discipline and hard work, and encouraged them to stay focused on their goals. He also led a short fitness session, inspiring students to adopt a healthier and more active lifestyle.
The visit created a memorable experience for students, offering them a close interaction with film personalities and a glimpse into the world of Bollywood promotions on campus.
15, Apr 2026
Srishti Group Introduces Limited-Edition Akshaya Tritiya Offers on Craft dé Srishti and Srishti Oasis
Mumbai, Apr 15: Srishti Group, a trusted and established name in Mumbai’s real estate sector, proudly celebrates 35 years of excellence; its Coral Anniversary by unveiling exclusive, limited-period offers across its premium residential developments, Craft dé Srishti and Srishti Oasis. Timed to coincide with the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya a festival symbolizing prosperity and new beginnings these special offers are thoughtfully designed to enhance the joy of homeownership.
Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Kamlesh Thakur, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Srishti Group, said, “Celebrating 35 years is not just a milestone, but a testament to the trust our customers have placed in us. On the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, we are delighted to introduce value-driven offers that make homeownership more accessible and rewarding. With benefits like Zero GST, No Floor Rise, flexible payment plans, and assured savings, we continue our commitment to delivering quality homes with transparency, innovation, and long-term value.”
Adding to the festive spirit, every homebuyer will receive a complimentary 10 gm gold coin with every booking an offering that aligns with the tradition of investing in gold on Akshaya Tritiya, making the purchase even more auspicious and meaningful.
Reinforcing its position as a customer-centric developer, Srishti Group has designed these offerings to cater to both end-users and investors seeking modern lifestyles combined with strong investment potential.
Project Highlights:
- Craft dé Srishti, located along Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR) in Nahur (West), offers premium 2 and 3 Bed Sun-deck Homes starting from ₹1.74 crore onwards. Designed for contemporary urban living, the project features spacious layouts, refined aesthetics, and premium amenities.
- Srishti Oasis, situated at GMLR One, Bhandup (West), presents elegant 1, 2, and 3 Bed Sun-deck Homes starting from ₹96 lakhs onwards, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers and growing families seeking affordability without compromising on lifestyle.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, customers can also benefit from the exclusive “Best of Four” scheme, which includes:
- Zero GST
- No Floor Rise
- Spot Discount
- Go-Flexi Pay Plan
These limited-period offers are valid until April 30, 2026, creating a compelling window for prospective homebuyers.
Both developments benefit from their strategic location along the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road (GMLR)—a transformative infrastructure corridor set to significantly enhance east-west connectivity in Mumbai. Once operational, GMLR will seamlessly connect the Western and Eastern Express Highways, improving accessibility between key suburbs such as Goregaon, Powai, Mulund, Nahur, and Bhandup, while reducing travel time and easing congestion.
With a legacy spanning over three decades, Srishti Group continues to set benchmarks in quality construction, timely delivery, and customer-focused innovation. As it celebrates this significant milestone, the brand reaffirms its commitment to shaping modern urban living while remaining a preferred choice among discerning homebuyers in Mumbai.
