central asia

Moody's Ratings has identified Indian banks as highly exposed to Middle East crisis risks due to the nation's significant energy import dependence. Sustained high oil prices could pressure inflation, interest rates, and borrower cash flows, impacting loan quality. Despite these challenges, Indian banks possess adequate capital and provisioning buffers to absorb potential credit losses.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi to invite him to the BJP government's second-anniversary celebrations on June 12. Majhi discussed infrastructure development, investment, and welfare initiatives, while also briefing the PM on the state's economic measures amid the West Asia conflict.

CNG prices in Delhi have seen their fourth hike in under 15 days, increasing by Rs 2 per kg. This follows recent increases in petrol and diesel rates, with Delhi petrol crossing Rs 100 per litre. These consecutive hikes are expected to raise transport costs and potentially impact inflation.

The NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) has slammed the BJP's fuel conservation efforts as mere "publicity" and questioned the Centre's pricing policy. The party argues that symbolic austerity measures won't lower prices, while citizens bear the brunt of rising fuel costs and oil company profits remain high. They demand an all-party meeting on energy security.

In a recent statement, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav launched a scathing attack on the NDA government, pointing to soaring inflation rates and rampant unemployment as indicators of its failing economic strategies. He expressed deep concern over the escalating prices of basic necessities that are straining the finances of families—especially the less affluent and middle-class citizens in Bihar.

A discovery of seven stone flakes at Sulawesi's Calio site, dated to at least 1.04 million years ago, drastically alters understanding of early human migration in island Southeast Asia. This finding pushes back hominin presence on the island by nearly a million years, suggesting earlier crossings of deep water bodies in Wallacea.

Experts believe that the RBI’s record surplus transfer will offer only partial support to the government’s strained fiscal position amid the continuing crisis in West Asia.

Fortnite and Overwatch are collaborating for a special event. Two Power Hour sessions will occur on May 23, 2026. Players will start with unique loadouts inspired by Overwatch heroes. These sessions offer a chance to experience exciting gameplay. Timings are provided for various regions worldwide. Players are advised to check their local times to participate.

During the convocation at Nalanda University, P.K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, underscored the pivotal role of Asia in global affairs alongside India’s robust economic position. He championed a model of sustainable development that integrates knowledge, values, and harmonious living.

A court of inquiry will assess evidence against Major Manan Tiwari for allegedly shooting a junior commissioned officer during practice at the Central Ammunition Depot. The Army will conduct a court martial, after which police will incorporate findings into their murder investigation. The incident has prompted scrutiny of safety protocols at the Pulgaon depot.

Federal Reserve Governor Chris Waller is advocating for the central bank to signal that its next policy move might not be an interest rate cut, citing elevated inflation pressures. He proposes removing the "easing bias" language from policy statements, emphasizing a pause on rate changes for the near term while monitoring global developments.

The Indian rupee strengthened significantly against the US dollar, closing at 95.26, driven by positive global sentiment surrounding a potential US-Iran peace deal and easing West Asian tensions. RBI Governor's assurance of orderly forex market movements and positive remarks on the rupee's valuation also boosted confidence.