financial services secretary

In a significant show of solidarity, scores of employees from Assam's Regional Rural Bank gathered to demand job security and improved workplace conditions. They pointed out the pressing need for adequate staffing, as workloads have surged and essential service issues continue to be sidelined, especially concerning promotion policies which fall short compared to those in public sector banks.

Ranchi's ambitious plan for 244 new city buses, including electric and double-decker models, remains stalled over two years post-approval. Repeated tender failures and a state government policy review are causing the delay. The project aimed to modernize public transport, reduce reliance on unregulated autos and e-rickshaws, and improve urban mobility.

India and Vietnam have agreed to elevate their relationship to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, setting an ambitious trade target of $25 billion by 2030. The pact includes expanded cooperation in defense, technology, and digital services, alongside efforts to boost agricultural trade and supply chain resilience.

Desi consumption will hold ground, because non-rich still want to spend.

The Pentagon estimates the war with Iran has cost $25 billion, though sources suggest the true figure could reach $50 billion due to unincluded repair costs. Officials defended the ongoing conflict, calling it an "existential fight" and dismissing concerns of it becoming a "quagmire."

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are expected to continue seeing volatility in the near-term, says Praveen Singh, Head Currencies and Commodities, Mirae Asset ShareKhan.

Bihar is on the cusp of a cinematic renaissance, propelled by an ambitious film policy designed to establish the state as a prime filmmaking hotspot. This forward-thinking initiative has already attracted 48 diverse projects, including 25 Hindi films, and emphasizes the economic upliftment of local communities through targeted skill development and job creation.

Rajasthan's top energy official cautioned against lengthy power purchase agreements for battery storage, warning that rigid, long-term contracts could undermine the technology's inherent flexibility and burden consumers. He emphasized that battery systems offer multiple revenue streams beyond just selling electricity, and fixed tariffs for decades might hinder operators from capitalizing on market opportunities and technological advancements.

FM, Vaishnaw Meet Banks And Regulators

Science and Technology Park (STP) at Pune University announced launch of three new Centres of Excellence and a Global Capability Centre during its 40th anniversary event at Pune International Centre. The initiative focuses on innovation, policy research, geoinformatics. STP highlighted incubation support for 1,372 startups, funding assistance, completion of 659 projects, and development of 26 market-ready products. Dignitaries emphasized AI, policy research, global collaboration, and strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem for future entrepreneurs and research-driven growth.