Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard emphasized France's commitment to promoting a free, open, and stable Indo-Pacific region while enhancing interoperability with global allies. The French Carrier Strike Group's objectives include strengthening maritime security and protecting French interests, alongside conducting joint exercises with regional partners during Mission CLEMENCEAU 25.
China is seeing an increase in human metapneumovirus cases, similar to the flu. This rise is overwhelming hospitals and raising concerns about the healthcare system. The virus affects children and the elderly severely. Authorities are monitoring the situation, but there is no state of emergency yet. The global health community remains alert.
Elon Musk has announced major updates to improve user experience on X, formerly known as Twitter. Elon Musk has announced a significant update to X's algorithm, focusing on prioritizing engaging content. Elon Musk acquired Twitter in 2022 and since then, the tech mogul has implemented a series of ambitious updates and reforms.
Despite ongoing diplomatic tensions, 50 Bangladeshi judicial officers are set to attend a 10-day training program at the National Judicial Academy and State Judicial Academy in Bhopal, India. The Indian government will cover all training expenses. This initiative follows the advice of Bangladesh’s Supreme Court amid recent disturbances involving the Hindu community in Bangladesh.
The Albuquerque home made famous by the hit series Breaking Bad is now up for sale, sparking excitement among fans and real estate enthusiasts alike.
The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has announced a reduction in the NEET PG 2024 qualifying percentile for all categories. The general and EWS category cut-off is now 15 percentile. The SC, ST, OBC, and PwD categories now require a 10 percentile. Last year, the cut-off was reduced to zero across all categories.
Bangladesh's Election Commission will investigate the issues in past elections, particularly the controversial ones held in 2014, 2018, and 2024. Chief Election Commissioner Nasir Uddin directed regional officers to identify irregularities and submit reports. This move aims to restore public trust and ensure future elections are free, fair, and impartial.
This visit reflects the strategic partnership between the US and India in countering China's influence in the region.
A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has lasted over a month. The agreement included Hezbollah disarming in southern Lebanon and Israel withdrawing its forces. While Hezbollah has largely halted attacks, Israel continues some strikes. Israel has withdrawn from a few towns but not all. The potential for resumed fighting remains if requirements are not met.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus affecting those with weakened immune systems, has sparked fresh concerns globally. With no vaccine available and immunity levels still uncertain, the virus raises questions about its potential to disrupt daily life in the U.S.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married in 2018 and have been in headlines since then. Recently, the couple were in the news again after sparking divorce rumours. In recent days, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex embarked on several solo engagements to focus on their individual aspirations, sparking buzz about trouble in paradise.
Beyoncé is focusing on securing Blue Ivy's legacy, pursuing a trademark battle for her daughter's name despite Jay-Z's legal troubles.
On Saturday, President Joe Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 individuals, including Hillary Clinton, George Soros, Denzel Washington, Lionel Messi, Magic Johnson, and José Andrés. The recipients are recognized for their contributions to politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, and beyond. Four awards will be given posthumously.
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank reported a rise in advances to Rs 30466 crore, despite its microfinance business shrinking. The bank's gross non-performing assets ratio increased to 2.7%. The portfolio at risk also rose, aligning with stress in the microfinance sector. The bank is reducing its microfinance weightage and increasing secured loans. Deposits grew to Rs 34496 crore.
GST Amnesty 2024: GSTN in an new advisory said now GST SPL-02 form has been made available on the GST portal. GST SPL-02 form can be used to apply for GST Amnesty Scheme waiver of interest and penalty. Read below to find out how to apply for GST Amnesty Scheme.
ISRO's CROPS experiment onboard PSLV-C60 successfully sprouted cowpea seeds in four days under microgravity conditions. This experiment aims to understand plant growth in space for future long-duration missions. The seeds are in a controlled environment with active thermal regulation, simulating extended space travel conditions. The mission placed two SpaDeX satellites in orbit on December 30.
SpadeX's Chaser satellite captures first video of Earth from space, demonstrating advanced imaging as part of ISRO's autonomous docking mission. The footage, taken at 400 km altitude, showcases its readiness for India's first collaborative space docking operation next week, advancing space technology and exploration capabilities.
In 2024, Delhi Police deported 132 foreign nationals for staying in the capital without valid documents. The individuals included Nigerians, Ivory Coast nationals, Guineans, Uzbeks, Ghanaians, Ugandans, and a Senegalese national. They lived in slums and unauthorized colonies in Dwarka. The Anti-Narcotics Cell and local police stations led the operation.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced the ministry's openness to ideas for easing the process for startups returning to India. He emphasized that discussions with the National Startup Advisory Council will explore necessary steps. Goyal also highlighted 50 MoUs with corporate houses, encouraging startups to identify opportunities and solve challenges.
The announcement has sparked discussions about the nature of the award and the criteria used to select recipients.
Jagdeep Singh, CEO of Quantumscape, is the highest-paid employee in the world with an annual income of Rs 17,500 crore. Quantumscape, under his leadership, focuses on developing advanced solid-state batteries for electric vehicles. His success emphasizes the significance of technological advancements and sustainable energy solutions, positioning Indian talent on the global stage.
