The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has busted an interstate drug syndicate, arresting two individuals at Kalyan Railway Station in Thane. The seizure included 3,600 Nitrazepam tablets and 270 bottles of Codeine syrup. The syndicate, operating across Maharashtra and Karnataka, was targeted based on intelligence indicating plans to smuggle drugs into the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The arrested individuals confessed to procuring the drugs for distribution in Mumbai, Thane, Kalyan, and other areas.... Читать дальше...
A massive solar storm, the strongest in over 20 years, hit Earth, causing stunning auroras and raising concerns about satellite and power grid disruptions. The storm, triggered by several coronal mass ejections from the Sun, was upgraded to an "extreme" geomagnetic storm. Social media was abuzz with photos of the auroras from various parts of the world. Authorities warned satellite operators, airlines, and power grids to take precautions. The storm's effects are expected to be mainly felt in the planet's northern and southern latitudes.
The Biden administration has raised concerns over potential violations of international humanitarian law by Israel in its use of U.S.-supplied weapons during the Gaza conflict. While a State Department report noted credible reports of civilian harm, it couldn't confirm specific instances of breaches due to lack of information. This criticism comes amid strained U.S.-Israel relations over Israel's military plans. The administration has paused arms sales and is reviewing its support for Israel, despite reiterating its long-term commitment. Читать дальше...
Meesho secures $275M funding in a $600M round. Share transfers hinted in SEC filing. In total, Meesho has raised $1.36 billion – including secondaries – since 2015.
Cricketers have signed at least half a dozen endorsement, investment, and collaboration deals during the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the past two-three weeks. MS Dhoni has been signed by nutrition startup Explosive Whey, French carmaker Citroen, and Emcure Pharmaceuticals. Virat Kohli has collaborated with Philips for a limited-edition, co-designed beard trimmer, while Yashasvi Jaiswal has been signed by wearables brand boAt.
Industry executives in Kolkata predict a 20% year-on-year increase in Akshaya Tritiya sales value due to higher gold prices. Lightweight jewellery, including gold and silver coins, accounted for the bulk of demand, with gold trading at ₹72,633 per 10 gm on the auspicious day. Quick commerce platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart also contributed to the surge in demand, delivering gold and silver coins within 10 minutes.
Chinese smartphone brands, including Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo, Realme, Transsion, and Motorola, have seen their cumulative market share rise to 75% in the March quarter, despite government scrutiny. This growth is attributed to a shipment rebound by top brands like Xiaomi and Vivo after a few tepid quarters in 2023 due to low demand and inventory bottlenecks. Smaller brands like Motorola and Transsion have also expanded their footprint in the market.
India's central bank is set to hold a meeting with top management from asset reconstruction companies (ARCs) to discuss corporate governance and stressed-asset resolutions. This comes amidst concerns about potential back-door entry by defaulting promoters. The meeting, scheduled for May 17 in Mumbai, will see the participation of all 27 registered ARCs, along with RBI executives. Allegations have arisen that ARCs may strike deals with defaulting promoters, allowing them entry at a steep discount, bypassing regulations.
Tata Motors Surpasses Expectations with Tripled Profit in Q4, Eyes Debt-Free Status. India's largest automaker reported a net profit of Rs 17,528 crore in Q4, thrice the previous year, aided by a deferred tax credit. The company's revenue for the period climbed 13% YoY to Rs 1.19 lakh crore. For the full FY24, Tata Motors delivered record profit and revenue, with JLR generating a net profit of £2.5 billion. The company continued deleveraging efforts, aiming for net automotive debt-free status in FY25. Читать дальше...
Amidst geopolitical tensions in West Asia causing a sharp decline in saffron supplies from Iran, Indian saffron prices have surged by over 20% at wholesale and 27% at retail levels, reaching Rs 3.5-3.6 lakh per kg. Kashmiri saffron, renowned for its quality, faces production challenges, with output declining significantly despite receiving a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Factors such as pollution from new cement factories in Pampore and erratic weather conditions contribute to the decline.
'Girl Next Door' follows the story of Sam, a young mother who becomes radicalized after the death of her husband, a terrorist. The film explores Sam's transformation from a grieving widow to a fugitive from justice, raising questions about the nature of terrorism and personal identity.
Blood of Zeus Season 2 is a visual treat for those interested in Greek mythology. Viewers watch as Heron tries to save the world.
