India Launches Probe into Chinese Nylon and TDQ Imports
India has initiated anti-dumping investigations into two Chinese products—nylon filament yarn and trimethyl dihydroquinoline (TDQ). The investigations were triggered by petitions from domestic companies, such as Century Enka Ltd., Gujarat Polyfilms Ltd., and Oriilon India Ltd., for nylon filament yarn, and NOCIL Ltd. for TDQ. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) is looking into whether these cheap imports from China and Vietnam have caused material harm to local industries.
India Launches Probe into Chinese Nylon and TDQ Imports
India has initiated anti-dumping investigations into two Chinese products—nylon filament yarn and trimethyl dihydroquinoline (TDQ). The investigations were triggered by petitions from domestic companies, such as Century Enka Ltd., Gujarat Polyfilms Ltd., and Oriilon India Ltd., for nylon filament yarn, and NOCIL Ltd. for TDQ. The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) is looking into whether these cheap imports from China and Vietnam have caused material harm to local industries.
Chimpanzees Show Varying Nut-Cracking Skills, Revealing Cognitive Differences
A groundbreaking study has uncovered notable differences in the nut-cracking abilities of chimpanzees within the same group, shedding new light on their cognitive and motor skills. Researchers analyzed extensive video footage of wild chimpanzees from Bossou, Guinea, where they observed 3,882 instances of chimps attempting to crack open nuts using stones as tools. The study found varying levels of efficiency among individuals, indicating differences in cognitive abilities and physical dexterit
Chimpanzees Show Varying Nut-Cracking Skills, Revealing Cognitive Differences
A groundbreaking study has uncovered notable differences in the nut-cracking abilities of chimpanzees within the same group, shedding new light on their cognitive and motor skills. Researchers analyzed extensive video footage of wild chimpanzees from Bossou, Guinea, where they observed 3,882 instances of chimps attempting to crack open nuts using stones as tools. The study found varying levels of efficiency among individuals, indicating differences in cognitive abilities and physical dexterit
India's Pharma Industry Set for Major Growth and Innovation in 2025
In 2025, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is set for a profound transformation driven by innovation, research excellence, and expanded global access. With the industry projected to reach USD 130 billion by 2030, India aims to become a global hub for high-quality, affordable pharmaceuticals, focusing on areas like CAR-T cell therapy, mRNA vaccines, and biosimilars. Technological advancements like AI, machine learning, and precision medicine are expected to revolutionize drug discovery, manuf
India's Pharma Industry Set for Major Growth and Innovation in 2025
In 2025, the Indian pharmaceutical industry is set for a profound transformation driven by innovation, research excellence, and expanded global access. With the industry projected to reach USD 130 billion by 2030, India aims to become a global hub for high-quality, affordable pharmaceuticals, focusing on areas like CAR-T cell therapy, mRNA vaccines, and biosimilars. Technological advancements like AI, machine learning, and precision medicine are expected to revolutionize drug discovery, manuf
Manu Bhaker's Khel Ratna Nomination Missing: Shooter Responds Amid Criticism
Manu Bhaker, the double Olympic medallist shooter, recently made headlines after reports revealed her name was missing from the list of athletes nominated for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Bhaker, the first Indian athlete to win two Olympic medals in a single edition of the Games, expressed surprise over the omission, but clarified that it could be due to a lapse on her part while filing the nomination. She emphasized that awards motivate her but are not her ultimate goa
Manu Bhaker's Khel Ratna Nomination Missing: Shooter Responds Amid Criticism
Manu Bhaker, the double Olympic medallist shooter, recently made headlines after reports revealed her name was missing from the list of athletes nominated for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Bhaker, the first Indian athlete to win two Olympic medals in a single edition of the Games, expressed surprise over the omission, but clarified that it could be due to a lapse on her part while filing the nomination. She emphasized that awards motivate her but are not her ultimate goa
Indian Rupee Hits Record Low of 85.12 Against US Dollar
The Indian rupee weakened by 10 paise to a record low of 85.12 against the US dollar on Monday, marking a significant decline in its value. The domestic currency opened at 84.85, according to Bloomberg data, and had closed at 85.02 on Friday. This continued depreciation comes amid rising global pressures, including an increase in Brent crude prices, which rose 0.41% to $73.24 per barrel. The rise in crude prices was partly driven by easing concerns about a potential US government shutdown and
Indian Rupee Hits Record Low of 85.12 Against US Dollar
The Indian rupee weakened by 10 paise to a record low of 85.12 against the US dollar on Monday, marking a significant decline in its value. The domestic currency opened at 84.85, according to Bloomberg data, and had closed at 85.02 on Friday. This continued depreciation comes amid rising global pressures, including an increase in Brent crude prices, which rose 0.41% to $73.24 per barrel. The rise in crude prices was partly driven by easing concerns about a potential US government shutdown and
Harmanpreet and Praveen Nominated for Khel Ratna, Manu Bhaker Missing
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for Indian sports, with several athletes bringing laurels to the country, including India's T20 World Cup win and Manu Bhaker's double medal victory at the Paris Olympics. The Indian government has revealed the nominees for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India's highest sporting honor. Among the nominees are Harmanpreet Singh, captain of the Indian men's hockey team, who led the team to a bronze medal at th
Harmanpreet and Praveen Nominated for Khel Ratna, Manu Bhaker Missing
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for Indian sports, with several athletes bringing laurels to the country, including India's T20 World Cup win and Manu Bhaker's double medal victory at the Paris Olympics. The Indian government has revealed the nominees for the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India's highest sporting honor. Among the nominees are Harmanpreet Singh, captain of the Indian men's hockey team, who led the team to a bronze medal at th
Rajan Blames UPA Corruption for Bank NPAs, Praises Modi Cleanup
Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has linked corruption under the UPA government as the primary cause of non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banks. In a recent interview, Rajan explained that following the global financial crisis, several projects began facing severe delays due to corruption scandals, land acquisition issues, and other regulatory obstacles. These factors, he argued, significantly contributed to the rise of NPAs. Rajan praised the
Rajan Blames UPA Corruption for Bank NPAs, Praises Modi Cleanup
Raghuram Rajan, former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has linked corruption under the UPA government as the primary cause of non-performing assets (NPAs) in Indian banks. In a recent interview, Rajan explained that following the global financial crisis, several projects began facing severe delays due to corruption scandals, land acquisition issues, and other regulatory obstacles. These factors, he argued, significantly contributed to the rise of NPAs. Rajan praised the
Army and Police Seize Drugs and Arms Near LoC in Jammu and Kashmir
A significant drug and arms seizure took place in Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir, as a result of a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army and local police. The operation, based on specific intelligence inputs, was carried out in the Chinotra area of the Tangdhar sector near the Line of Control (LoC). The search led to the recovery of approximately four kilograms of narcotics, including heroin-like substances, along with four pistols, six magazines, and other ‘war-like stores.
Army and Police Seize Drugs and Arms Near LoC in Jammu and Kashmir
A significant drug and arms seizure took place in Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir, as a result of a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army and local police. The operation, based on specific intelligence inputs, was carried out in the Chinotra area of the Tangdhar sector near the Line of Control (LoC). The search led to the recovery of approximately four kilograms of narcotics, including heroin-like substances, along with four pistols, six magazines, and other ‘war-like stores.
Pakistan Issues 84 Visas for Indian Pilgrims to Visit Katas Raj Temples
The Pakistan High Commission announced on Wednesday that it has issued 84 visas to Indian pilgrims for a visit to the Shree Katas Raj temples in Chakwal district, Punjab, Pakistan. The pilgrimage, scheduled from December 19 to 25, will allow Hindu pilgrims to visit this sacred complex of temples, also known as Qila Katas. The temples are a significant religious site for Hindus and are linked by walkways. These visits are part of the long-standing Pakistan-India bilateral protocol on
Pakistan Issues 84 Visas for Indian Pilgrims to Visit Katas Raj Temples
The Pakistan High Commission announced on Wednesday that it has issued 84 visas to Indian pilgrims for a visit to the Shree Katas Raj temples in Chakwal district, Punjab, Pakistan. The pilgrimage, scheduled from December 19 to 25, will allow Hindu pilgrims to visit this sacred complex of temples, also known as Qila Katas. The temples are a significant religious site for Hindus and are linked by walkways. These visits are part of the long-standing Pakistan-India bilateral protocol on
Caitlin Sandra Neil Crowned Miss India USA 2024
In a dazzling celebration of beauty and talent, Caitlin Sandra Neil, a 19-year-old Chennai-born Indian American teenager, was crowned Miss India USA 2024 at the annual pageant held in New Jersey. Caitlin, who is a second-year student at the University of California, Davis, expressed her desire to leave a lasting, positive impact on her community, with a strong focus on women's empowerment and literacy. Having lived in the United States for the past 14 years, Caitlin's journe
Caitlin Sandra Neil Crowned Miss India USA 2024
In a dazzling celebration of beauty and talent, Caitlin Sandra Neil, a 19-year-old Chennai-born Indian American teenager, was crowned Miss India USA 2024 at the annual pageant held in New Jersey. Caitlin, who is a second-year student at the University of California, Davis, expressed her desire to leave a lasting, positive impact on her community, with a strong focus on women's empowerment and literacy. Having lived in the United States for the past 14 years, Caitlin's journe
R. Ashwin Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Indian cricket team spinner R. Ashwin has announced his retirement from international cricket after the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane on Wednesday. Ashwin, who played a pivotal role in India’s rise to the top of Test cricket, made the announcement during a joint press conference with captain Rohit Sharma, after the game ended in a draw. Ashwin, with 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, is the second-highest wicket-taker for India, following only Anil Kumble's record of
R. Ashwin Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Indian cricket team spinner R. Ashwin has announced his retirement from international cricket after the third Test match against Australia in Brisbane on Wednesday. Ashwin, who played a pivotal role in India’s rise to the top of Test cricket, made the announcement during a joint press conference with captain Rohit Sharma, after the game ended in a draw. Ashwin, with 537 wickets in 106 Test matches, is the second-highest wicket-taker for India, following only Anil Kumble's record of
Sitharaman Calls GDP Dip a Temporary Blip, Sees Strong Growth Ahead
Finance Minister’s View on GDP Growth: In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the lower-than-expected growth in India’s GDP for the September quarter, calling it a "temporary blip." She emphasized her confidence that India’s economy will regain strong growth in the upcoming quarters. Despite the slowdown in the second quarter, she highligh
Sitharaman Calls GDP Dip a Temporary Blip, Sees Strong Growth Ahead
Finance Minister’s View on GDP Growth: In a recent statement, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed the lower-than-expected growth in India’s GDP for the September quarter, calling it a "temporary blip." She emphasized her confidence that India’s economy will regain strong growth in the upcoming quarters. Despite the slowdown in the second quarter, she highligh
India and Russia Plan Visa-Free Travel for Indian Tourists by 2025
Indian tourists may soon enjoy visa-free travel to Russia, with the new arrangement expected by spring 2025. Since August 2023, Indian travelers have already been eligible for e-visas, which are processed within four days. The upcoming visa-free travel agreement will further strengthen tourism ties between India and Russia. In 2023, Russia granted 9,500 e-visas to Indian visitors, placing India among the top five countries for easy travel access to Russia. Consultations between Mosc
India and Russia Plan Visa-Free Travel for Indian Tourists by 2025
Indian tourists may soon enjoy visa-free travel to Russia, with the new arrangement expected by spring 2025. Since August 2023, Indian travelers have already been eligible for e-visas, which are processed within four days. The upcoming visa-free travel agreement will further strengthen tourism ties between India and Russia. In 2023, Russia granted 9,500 e-visas to Indian visitors, placing India among the top five countries for easy travel access to Russia. Consultations between Mosc
PM Modi Pays Tribute to Soldiers on Vijay Diwas, Honoring 1971 Victory
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday honored the soldiers who played a pivotal role in India's victory during the 1971 war, known as Vijay Diwas. The day commemorates the surrender of Pakistani forces to the Indian Army, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. In a post shared on X, PM Modi paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers who contributed to this historic victory. Modi emphasized the selfless dedication and determination of the Indian soldiers, notin
PM Modi Pays Tribute to Soldiers on Vijay Diwas, Honoring 1971 Victory
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday honored the soldiers who played a pivotal role in India's victory during the 1971 war, known as Vijay Diwas. The day commemorates the surrender of Pakistani forces to the Indian Army, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. In a post shared on X, PM Modi paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers who contributed to this historic victory. Modi emphasized the selfless dedication and determination of the Indian soldiers, notin
Indian Rupee Weakens Amid RBI Leadership Change and Central Bank Decisions
The Indian rupee opened at 84.83 against the US dollar on Monday, a depreciation of 4 paise compared to the previous close of 84.79. The decline in the rupee is largely attributed to the uncertainty following the announcement of a leadership transition at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Shaktikanta Das will be succeeded by Sanjay Malhotra, sparking initial concerns in the market. However, markets quickly adjusted to the news, with experts noting that the RBI is closely monitoring banking sys
Indian Rupee Weakens Amid RBI Leadership Change and Central Bank Decisions
The Indian rupee opened at 84.83 against the US dollar on Monday, a depreciation of 4 paise compared to the previous close of 84.79. The decline in the rupee is largely attributed to the uncertainty following the announcement of a leadership transition at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Shaktikanta Das will be succeeded by Sanjay Malhotra, sparking initial concerns in the market. However, markets quickly adjusted to the news, with experts noting that the RBI is closely monitoring banking sys
Switzerland Suspends MFN Status for India, Raising Taxes on Indian Companies
Switzerland has decided to suspend the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) status granted to India, which could result in higher taxes for Indian companies operating in the country. Starting January 1, 2025, Indian companies will face increased withholding tax rates on income such as dividends and royalties generated in Switzerland. The new tax rules will impose a 10% tax on dividends earned by Indian entities. This move follows a ruling by the Indian Supreme Court in October 2023, which sta
Switzerland Suspends MFN Status for India, Raising Taxes on Indian Companies
Switzerland has decided to suspend the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) status granted to India, which could result in higher taxes for Indian companies operating in the country. Starting January 1, 2025, Indian companies will face increased withholding tax rates on income such as dividends and royalties generated in Switzerland. The new tax rules will impose a 10% tax on dividends earned by Indian entities. This move follows a ruling by the Indian Supreme Court in October 2023, which sta
Efforts to Secure Release of 14 Indian Fishermen Detained in Pakistan
Efforts are underway to secure the early release and repatriation of 14 Indian fishermen, including seven from Tamil Nadu, who have been detained in a Pakistani jail since January. Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin about the ongoing diplomatic efforts. This followed a letter from Stalin, dated November 20, urging swift action for the fishermen’s release. Jaishankar stated that the Indian government had raised the matte
Efforts to Secure Release of 14 Indian Fishermen Detained in Pakistan
Efforts are underway to secure the early release and repatriation of 14 Indian fishermen, including seven from Tamil Nadu, who have been detained in a Pakistani jail since January. Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin about the ongoing diplomatic efforts. This followed a letter from Stalin, dated November 20, urging swift action for the fishermen’s release. Jaishankar stated that the Indian government had raised the matte
Rupee Hits Record Low of 84.88 Against Dollar
On Thursday, the Indian Rupee weakened to a record low of 84.88 against the US Dollar, following a series of declines this week. The rupee had opened flat at 84.85 for the second consecutive day, and this followed a similar trend on Wednesday when it closed at 84.84 after opening at 84.85. Earlier in the week, the rupee had weakened by 12 paise on Tuesday to close at 84.85, marking a new low. The domestic currency dipped to 84.73 on Monday, continuing its downward trajectory. Expert
Rupee Hits Record Low of 84.88 Against Dollar
On Thursday, the Indian Rupee weakened to a record low of 84.88 against the US Dollar, following a series of declines this week. The rupee had opened flat at 84.85 for the second consecutive day, and this followed a similar trend on Wednesday when it closed at 84.84 after opening at 84.85. Earlier in the week, the rupee had weakened by 12 paise on Tuesday to close at 84.85, marking a new low. The domestic currency dipped to 84.73 on Monday, continuing its downward trajectory. Expert
Andhra Pradesh Signs MoU with Google for AI Data Center in Vizag
The NDA-led government of Andhra Pradesh is making significant strides in inviting global investments to the state. A major milestone was reached today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the government of Andhra Pradesh and Google, marking the beginning of a strong partnership. The MoU focuses on establishing an AI Data Center in Vizag, which will be operated by Google Cloud. This confirms Google's entry into Andhra Pradesh as part of its tech expans
Andhra Pradesh Signs MoU with Google for AI Data Center in Vizag
The NDA-led government of Andhra Pradesh is making significant strides in inviting global investments to the state. A major milestone was reached today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the government of Andhra Pradesh and Google, marking the beginning of a strong partnership. The MoU focuses on establishing an AI Data Center in Vizag, which will be operated by Google Cloud. This confirms Google's entry into Andhra Pradesh as part of its tech expans
Indian Students See 38% Drop in US F-1 Visa Issuances in 2024
Indian students have witnessed a significant decline in F-1 student visas issued by the United States in 2024. According to the latest data from the US State Department, the number of F-1 visas granted to Indian nationals dropped by 38% in the first nine months of the year. Specifically, 64,008 F-1 visas were issued to Indian students from January to September 2024, down from 1,03,495 in the same period in 2023. This represents the lowest number of F-1 visas granted since 2020, when the pande
Indian Students See 38% Drop in US F-1 Visa Issuances in 2024
Indian students have witnessed a significant decline in F-1 student visas issued by the United States in 2024. According to the latest data from the US State Department, the number of F-1 visas granted to Indian nationals dropped by 38% in the first nine months of the year. Specifically, 64,008 F-1 visas were issued to Indian students from January to September 2024, down from 1,03,495 in the same period in 2023. This represents the lowest number of F-1 visas granted since 2020, when the pande









